Partners of Commercial Fishermen

Let's normalize having BIG feelings at any stage of the POCF game! In this episode, I give a real-time, first-hand account of how I'm currently working through the feelings of longing/sadness for a fast-approaching season. The other morning over coffee, Chris said to himself, “I’m going back to Alaska this summer to run another boat.” As much as I love time to myself, the thought of another goodbye makes my heart drop.  It's easy to get hard on ourselves for experiencing the ups and downs of emotions whether you're in the on- or off-season. However, instead of feeling punk for letting this get to me after 8+ years together, I remember that not all seasons are the same, and sometimes you feel the feels more than others. This is normal 🫶 Snapping back to enjoying time together is the real trick. Otherwise, we’ll catch ourselves in a cycle of longing instead of taking advantage of the joys and FREEDOM of the off-season. If you’re feeling this way or have in the past, it's okay! It will pass and you will continue to thrive. Speaking to you on this episode feels like a chat with a BFF, a confessional, and a therapy session all in one. It's more proof that, no matter how long you've been with your fisherman, we can all relate – We Are Not Alone!  Show Resources: > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!

What I want most is for Partners of Commercial Fishermen to thrive in this unique lifestyle, and living without pain is definitely a huge part of that. That's why I'm happy to introduce you to my personal Physical Therapist, Dr. Colleen Rollo of Paradigm Performance Therapy.  I started going to Dr. Colleen in 2022 when I was experiencing symptoms related to carpal tunnel from repetitive movements due to writing on a computer daily. I worried I needed surgery, but was amazed how quickly I healed thanks to her personal exercises, 1:1 sessions, and the ability to ask her questions via text when needed. Talk about personal service! In this episode, we discuss: The similarities between manual labor and young moms and how to relieve pain and prevent injury from repetitive movements such as lifting traps, gear, or picking up your cute kids (or neices and nephews!).  We also talk about ways to identify pain and the steps to healing with actionable exercise recommendations from the doctor. And what to do when you're feeling pain but must work through it. I know moms and fishermen know this all too well.  Yep, there are so many good nuggets in this one that can help us maintain optimal health so we can continue to enjoy our lives the way we want.  Let's dive in! Show Notes:  Massage Cane: https://amzn.to/444ARKi Lacross Ball Massager: https://amzn.to/3W0HkE1 Show Resources: Website: www.paradigmperformancetherapy.com Follow Dr. Colleen on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/paradigmperformancetherapy/ Check out PPT’s YouTube for specific stretch and strengthening exercises:  https://www.youtube.com/@paradigmperformancetherapy7812  

Adra Kusnirova is a former partner of a commercial fishing processor and part owner of a direct marketing family seafood business called Alaska Fresh. In this episode, we go deeper than just talking about business. We discuss long-distance dating and the challenges of living in remote Alaska with her partner, the isolation and depression she experienced during the rainy summers, and how she used alcohol to cope with depression and pregnancy loss. Adra also the way in which she prioritized her mental health to help get her out of the downward spiral.  Of course, this story ends on a positive note! We talk about their family business, Alaska Fresh, how the Kusnirs learned the ropes by trial and error and a lot of grit, and their mission to support and promote commercial fishermen. Adra also discusses the joys of being a mom. This episode is packed with real talk and relatable stories that show courage and resilience that we can all relate to, and I hope you get some great takeaways as I did. Let’s dive in! SHOW RESOURCES: Order online: https://www.alaskafreshsalmon.com/shop Follow @alaskafreshsalmon on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok  EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku > [FREE] Never let paying taxes from fishing income drain your bank account again! Click here to grab the FREE Budget Guide for Commercial Fishing Couples to Thrive that will help you build wealth, track income and expenses, grow investments, manage debt, and more!  

POCF Danielle Hall is the Digital Producer for the Ocean Portal for the Smithsonian Institution and runs the Smithsonian National Museum's ocean education website. Danielle was featured on the POCF blog in 2021 when she first moved in with her fisherman on a small Island in Maine. At the time, she had no real background in commercial fishing, and acclimating to a very small fishing community was a big challenge. It’s interesting to hear how life has changed for Danielle, including becoming an advocate for commercial fishing communities in addition to her work as a scientist.  Danielle recently DM’d me with a message that I know many fishing couples and families have had behind closed doors: Fishermen are important resources for scientists and researchers to learn how to preserve the environment.  Today, we’re checking in with Danielle to hear about her comment on a federal initiative she recently submitted. Danielle is also a great example of how POCFs contribute to fishery policy and how we have and can affect change. Let’s give Danielle the floor. Show Resources:  Connect with Danielle on Instagram: @danikhall  Click here for Danielle Hall’s 2021 Interview on our Lifestyle Blog: https://meganwaldrep.com/maine-fishing-smithsonian/ Link to Federal Biodiversity Call for Comment: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/11/09/2023-24839/request-for-information-national-ocean-biodiversity-strategy EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku

On today’s episode, POCF, Singer/Songwriter, & Restauranteur Sara Bug comes to us from Nashville, Tennessee.  If you’re curious about the singer-songwriter's creative process, love live music, or want to learn a little about running a family seafood restaurant, this episode is for you.  Inside the episode, Sara shares: how she and her family started a restaurant selling Gulf Coast seafood How she maintains a long-distant relationship with a Gulf Coast Fisherman And insight into her creative process while writing her new album, Into the Blue.   Here’s How to Link with Sara and her music: Linktree to music: https://linktr.ee/sarabugofficial Instagram: @sarabugofficial  https://www.instagram.com/sarabugofficial/ Other Show Resources: The Greatest Night in Pop on Netflix EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku

Today, I read my essay on being a Military Brat, one of the main inspirations for starting the Partners of Commercial Fishermen community. I want to give partners the same recognition, empowerment, and support that military spouses receive because we deserve it. I've been a professional writer and journalist for over 11 years, and the discipline of writing has saved me more than I can express. This is one such piece. I share to reiterate the importance of POCFs finding a passion they can come back to, something that is completely yours, separate from your fisherman and family, something you call your own and find fulfillment. Let’s dive in! Show Resources: Blog Post with inspiration for hobbies by POCFs in our community:  https://meganwaldrep.com/letter-what-more-can-i-do/ Mentioned Instagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4LTnI4sAT4/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  or visit https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku  

Did you know there are free and discounted safety programs for commercial fishermen on every coast? It's true!  POCF Ashley Green is the Training Coordinator for AMSEA, Alaska Marine Safety Education Association in Sitka, Alaska. In this episode, we discuss Ashley's background in education, her relationship with her fisherman, Tyler, her experience as a partner of a commercial fisherman, including family adjustments when Tyler is away, plus the challenges and rewards of running a direct marketing business. We get into Ashely’s work with the Alaska Marine Safety Education Association (AMSEA), the various courses they offer for free or at reduced rates for commercial fishermen around the country, and the importance of partners of commercial fishermen attending, too. Let’s dive in! Website: www.amsea.org FB https://www.facebook.com/alaskamarinesafety/ IG https://www.instagram.com/amseatraining/ EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku

I was super impressed by Cody even before our interview. After searching his Instagram account @easytigerfishing, I was blown away by not only his passion for this career, but also how he handles comments from those who may have a negative attitude towards fishermen. I definitely took notes!  In this episode, we learn: Cody's beginnings in commercial fishing, how he balances school and fishing, and what his peers think of his occupation. The lessons he's learned from his grandfather on how to be a successful fisherman. His opinion on "Graying of the Fleeting" and his thoughts on the future of commercial fishing. You can link with Cody on Instagram at @easytigerfishing or email him directly at cody62107@gmail.com. EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku

What feeling do you get when you hear the word, "Health Insurance?" For some of us, it's positive. For others, it feels like an overwhelming task. In this episode, I speak with our personal health insurance agent, Andy Hester of Insurance Solutions NC, to answer and all questions regarding plans and how to make them work for us as commercial fishing families! Andy explains the basics of health insurance, including its role as a financial protection mechanism, the factors that determine the cost, and the role of subsidies. He also clarifies the concept of coinsurance, discusses the details of a specific health insurance plan, and the number one challenge he sees across the board with the solution to overcome it.  To connect with Andy, you can reach him directly on his cell phone at (910) 520-5845, at the office at (910) 332-0404 or email him at andy@insurancesolutionsnc.com. You can also visit insurancesolutionsnc.com for more info.  EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] Grab the FREE Budget Guide:  Wealth building, income tracking, organizing expenses, and growing investments for Commercial Fishing Couples to Thrive! https://meganwaldrep.us18.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=b6d913e3f80acf961202ec66d&id=96255ee25c > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs & get 1:1 support from me, along with advice from POCFs who have been there in the private forum! If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku

Maternal Mental Health Specialist Kate Kripke was our very first episode on the podcast, so this is a beautiful full-circle moment to have you on at the beginning of 2024! In this episode, we learn about Kate's "3 C's:" Curiousity Compassion Choice And how to apply them to our partnerships, parenting, and ourselves. You'll enjoy this one as I get vulnerable as Kate walks me through moments of what it's like to reunite with your fisherman after a long season and how to mentally overcome stresses of fluxuating seafood prices.  Kate is also offering FREE CONSULATIONS to all listeners who are ready to prioritize their mental health and are interested in learning about her 12-week program: https://go.oncehub.com/ResilienceBreakthroughCallO Show Refereneces:  The Instagram Reel: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C2s-Bqvyf4I/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Website: www.katekripke.com Motherhood Uncut Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/motherhood-uncut/id1631059177 Instagram: @katekripke Book: Reinventing Supermom: Support, Encouragement and Strategies for New Mothers Who Feel Lost  EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] Grab the FREE Budget Guide:  Wealth building, income tracking, organizing expenses, and growing investments for Commercial Fishing Couples to Thrive! https://meganwaldrep.us18.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=b6d913e3f80acf961202ec66d&id=96255ee25c > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs & get 1:1 support from me along with expert advice in the private forum! If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum! https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku > [Order] WE NOW HAVE GEAR! We recently got a new logo, and we are STOKED to represent our crew! Show your POCF pride by rockin’ our new T’s and vinyl stickers. Check out the new POCF gear here: https://pocfpride.limitedrun.com/