Episode 44
The Role of Femininity in the Military
I sat down with Lani Hankins, Lori Buttieries and Dex for a frank conversation about not just women in the military, but femininity in the military - its uses, its problems - and how each of them personally wrestled with it. We cover a lot of ground - the cliquishness of female servicemembers, the need to never be the weakest link, the desire to be held to the same standards. The ladies were articulate, fearless and didn't shy away from their very personal insights and critiques of both themselves and others. This episode has a lot of food for thought, I've found myself thinking about it every day since we recorded. I think this started a much larger conversation.
Show Alibis
A few times on the show, I've mentioned that I wasn't around females that much in the military. I guess that's generally true - except for one administrative position I held, I was in all-male units. But after this show, I kicked myself for not bringing up some of my experiences with females in the military and how I saw femininity express itself - or not. But then, I wanted to hear about Lori, Lani and Dex's experience more. Just realized I might have more to say than I had let on. More to follow on that down the road perhaps...
I thought it was funny how each lady appeared in awe of the others' experiences. Nothing wrong with awe, but certainly they each deserved to be there. Very complimentary yet individual takes on their time in the military. I can honestly say, I was surprised at their answers. I think these ladies have made lives out of taking the hard rights over the easy wrongs. Or maybe we just didn't talk long enough.
Show Notes
Bottled Away by Lani Hankins
Gift from God by Lori Buttieries
Follow Dex on Instagram
Follow Lani Hankins on IG
Follow Lori Buttieries on IG
Lani Hankins' Kruse Corner
