From Air Force Leadership to New York Runways: A Veteran's Unexpected Adventures -66

Join Dog Tag Diaries as Captain Kim continues her compelling conversation with retired Air Force First Sergeant Jess Gonzalez in part two of her journey. This episode offers an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of being a female leader in the military. Jess shares raw accounts of leading with empathy, including a harrowing moment assisting a military spouse in crisis—showcasing what true strength and compassion look like in uniform. Hear about her “mama bear” approach, the importance of supporting mental health, and how she brought small joys to her airmen with simple gestures.

If you’re curious about military women’s leadership, overcoming adversity, and building a legacy of service, this episode is for you. Plus, get a sneak peek into Jess’s life beyond the Air Force, from winning pageant titles to inspiring her local veteran community. Tune in for stories of resilience, advocacy, and empowerment!

Jess Gonzalez is a proud mom to her 19-year-old son, Gio, who inspires her daily. Beyond her military career, she has competed in pageants, run multiple half-marathons, and found peace in travel. She also actively serves with organizations like Women Veterans of San Antonio, The Mission Continues, and Operation Gratitude, and is honored to be part of Cohort 8 of the Beneath the Service Women Veterans Leadership Program where she continues her mission to uplift others through service, mentorship, and authenticity.

One of her most memorable personal achievements was competing in a pageant and winning the Royal Productions People's Choice title.

Connect with Jess

LinkedIn: Jessica Gonzalez, MBA, CPO, DAWIA Lvl 3

IG: jessie_g_1980

Here are the links to the organizations:

Women Veterans Leadership Program

Women Veterans of San Antonio

The Mission Continues

Operation Gratitude

Kim Liszka served in the United States Army/Reserves as a Combat Medic, Combat Nurse, Flight Nurse Instructor and one of the Top Female athletes in the Army. Kim worked 20+ years as an ER nurse and decided to explore the world as a travel nurse. She's an Advanced Wilderness Expedition Provider and Chief Medical Officer for numerous endurance/survival expeditions in different countries. Kim has a son, Jace and a daughter in law, Sammy and 2 grand animals, Joey & Bear. Her dog Camo is her best buddy. Camo is the sweetest yellow Labrador Retriever to walk this earth. He loves licking snow, riding the ocean waves, visiting carnivore food trucks and loves belly rubs and treats. Fun Facts: Kim's lived in the Reality TV World! Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior-Military Edition, American Tarzan, Spartan Namibia and more to come!

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Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project:

reveilleandretreatproject.org

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