How can reading help military families stay connected during deployments? đ
In this episode of the Veteran Spouse Network Podcast, host Hannah OâBrien talks with Penney Samons from United Through Reading about the power of Storytime for military and veteran families. From free books and a secure storytelling app to a mobile recording studio bringing Storytime to installations worldwide, this conversation highlights meaningful ways families can bondâanytime, anywhere.
đ§ Free for all military-connected families
đ Ages 0â18
đ Active duty, veteran, reserve, and all branches welcome
Learn more at unitedthroughreading.org
đ Help us support military and veteran familiesâshare this episode and subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.
Veteran Spouse Network
Life behind the uniform isnât always easy, and military and veteran families know this better than anyone. The Veteran Spouse Network Podcast brings real, honest conversations to the forefront, covering the challenges, stories, and victories unique to military and veteran families.
Each episode features spouses, partners, family members, experts, and providers sharing insights on everything from deployment stress and mental health struggles to navigating resources and relationship dynamics.
Whether youâre a military spouse, veteran family member, or just want to understand the true experience, this podcast offers a supportive space to connect, learn, and know youâre not alone.
Tune in and join the community that stands with you through every step of the journey.
Hannah OâBrien is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austinâs Steve Hicks School of Social Work Masters program. A native of Austin, Texas, she knew she needed to spread her wings in college, traveling all the way to the east coast to attend American University in Washington, D.C. where she received her Bachelors in Law and Society. After earning her undergraduate degree, she held several positions that included working with children in schools, supporting offenders during reentry after incarceration, offering employment guidance for low-income adults, and helping support adult literacy. Hannah then began her Masters of Science in Social Work at the University of Texas, where she completed the Administration and Policy Practice concentration, planning for a career in non-profit management.
While pursuing her degree, she fell in love with, and ultimately married a Marine Corps veteran and began immersing herself in the unique culture of the military. It wasnât long before she knew she wanted to pursue a career in the service of veteran spouses and families. Hannah has served as the Program Manager for the Veteran Spouse Network (VSN) since 2017, helping create, implement, and evaluate peer support programs for veteran spouses and families to ensure they receive the support they deserve. In addition to her role within the VSN, Hannah has had the opportunity to coordinate marriage enrichment and PTSD treatment groups for veteran couples, as well as assist in a multitude of different research projects aimed at supporting military and veteran families.