#112 - Reinventing Yourself: Jessica Meuse Talks Military Service, Ambitions, and Staying True

In a world where change is the only constant, Jessica Meuse's journey from a civilian to an officer in the Coast Guard serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of resilience and authenticity. In a recent podcast episode, she shares her experiences, challenges, and the surprising joys of military life, all while maintaining her unique sense of humor and passion for music.

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Quick Episode Summary:

Jessica Meuse shares military journey, music, friendships, and future plans.

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SEO Description:

Jessica Meuse returns for her second episode of Passing The Torch! Hear her Coast Guard journey, life changes, music, gaming, and inspiring advice.

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🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights:

• Reflections on the importance of leaving your hometown
• The oddities of military humor and finding “your people”
• Making new friendships that truly matter, especially during tough times
• Her musical roots, plans for new music, and even a potential Coast Guard project!
• Fun personal questions: Which movie character would she write a crush letter to? Which TV world would she join?
• Wisdom on empathy, unity, and leaving a positive mark

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Jessica's Resources: 

➡︎ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicameuse/

➡︎ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/jessmeuse 

➡︎ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessmeuse/

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Episode Mentions:

Grunt Style

Henry Cavill

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Quotes to open episode:

"Be curious, not judgmental."  - Walt Whitman - Ted Lasso

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Chapters:

00:00 Balancing Coast Guard and Passion

03:41 Life Challenges in Juneau

07:24 Adjusting After OCS Mentality

12:06 Seeking Change and Inspiration

15:06 Pursuing Goals Through Education

18:08 Unexpected Encounter on Journey

21:35 Impacting One Life Is Enough

24:54 Unity Over Division

28:41 Impactful Lyrics and Connection

30:06 Studio Setup and Music Plans

33:08 Grateful for Your Kindness

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Episode Sponsor:

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Full Summary

In this episode of "Passing The Torch," host Martin Foster welcomes back his friend and multi-talented guest, Jessica Meuse, for her second appearance on the show. The conversation kicks off with reflections on how much has changed in both their lives over the past year, highlighting their "high five" moment: Jessica Meuse has recently joined the military, while Martin Foster has transitioned out.

Jessica Meuse opens up about her journey from being rejected by Officer Candidate School (OCS) to a last-minute acceptance, leading to her new role as an ensign in the Coast Guard stationed in Alaska. She shares insights into the unique challenges and rewards of life in Juneau, including the isolation, difficulties in getting fresh produce, acclimating her polydactyl cat Prince Caspian, and sticking out with her Southern accent in a new environment.

The discussion delves into how Jessica Meuse's mindset and outlook have shifted over the past year, especially having gone through military training and joining a tight-knit community that suits her personality and sense of humor. She reflects on the transformative power of leaving one's hometown, making bold life changes, and the importance of challenging oneself, drawing from her own experiences as a musician, traveler, and now, service member.

Throughout the episode, the conversation weaves in lighthearted moments, from TV crushes (Henry Cavill!) to supernatural conventions and favorite TV shows, while also exploring deeper topics like finding purpose, building meaningful friendships in the military, and the difference she hopes to make in others’ lives.

Jessica Meuse also shares her ambitious career goals within the Coast Guard, her plans to further her education, and ongoing creative projects, including setting up a home studio to continue her music and gaming interests. The episode closes with a heartfelt exchange about friendship and a “passing the torch” tradition: Jessica Meuse suggests asking future guests about a difficult time in their life—how they persevered and what those experiences mean in shaping who they are.

Key Themes Explored:

• Personal and professional growth through life transitions
• The unique experience of starting over in a new place (Alaska)
• Adjusting to military life and building camaraderie
• The value of stepping outside one’s comfort zone
• The importance of making a positive impact, even if only for one person
• Maintaining creativity and artistic expression alongside new responsibilities

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This episode is a candid, warm, and often funny exploration of change, resilience, and the enduring power of genuine human connection.

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I appreciate all of you. - MF