In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Cathy Turner and Jackie Wojtak, co-founders of The Restored Heart Collective, to explore the often-ignored emotional toll carried by spouses of combat veterans. We talk candidly about identity loss, emotional labor, walking on eggshells, and why healing the family—not just the veteran—is critical to real reintegration after war.

This episode dives into trauma stored in the body, why “fixing your spouse” doesn’t work, and how community, somatic practices, and honest connection can change everything for military families.

Resources & Links

The Restored Heart Collective

Alone and Unafraid Podcast: Available wherever you listen to podcasts

Website: https://aloneandunafraid.org

Cadence Wealth Partners – Nick O'Kelly

Guest Info

Cathy Turner and Jackie Wojtak are educators, military spouses, and co-founders of The Restored Heart Collective, a nonprofit dedicated to creating healing retreats and community spaces for spouses of combat veterans. Their work centers on somatic healing, nervous system regulation, and helping women come home to themselves after years of emotional load-bearing.

• “This work isn’t about fixing your spouse — it’s about coming home to yourself.”

• “We heal war by healing the family.”

• “I thought I was protecting him, but I was erasing myself.”

• “Sometimes you don’t even know you’re in the circus.”

• “Community without competition is where real healing starts.”

If this conversation resonated with you—or reminded you of someone who needs it—share this episode.