"When Warzones Come Home" - Interview with Eli Gardner
Oct 18, 2023
Eli Gardner, is an author and military veteran with 13 deployments under her belt, who stands as a beacon of resilience and advocacy. Through her extensive journey in the military, Eli was witness to a multitude of painful experiences, compelling her to become an advocate for those who experienced similar paths.
Eli's mission is to amplify the voices of veterans and illuminate the many emotions woven into military life through her art. She firmly believes that even amidst the shadows of trauma, there exists a potential for transformation into something truly beautiful. Eli's resounding message encourages all to use their life experiences, no matter how challenging, and channel them towards a greater good, forging beauty from adversity. It is these very experiences that hold the power to resonate profoundly with the world.
Eli will read two poems today from her book Hookah Smoke and Hellfire: Poems from War (The Desert War Collection): "Time Warp Lounge" and "Message in a Bottle," Eli masterfully encapsulates the essence of the military experience.
The human tendency to compartmentalize trauma and discomfort is a universal defense mechanism. Eli mentions, there comes a point when the weight of these suppressed emotions demands acknowledgement. It was during one of these contemplative journeys that Eli's literary works were crafted. Her words serve as a reminder of the shared struggles experienced by individuals within the military community.
On today’s podcast, Eli will share excerpts from her works, offering a glimpse into the reality of military experiences. Through her powerful words, Eli Gardner urges us all to confront our own "boxes" and discover the potential for growth, healing, and even transcendence within them.
If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue this conversation with you, over on Instagram, or in my Facebook community!
Resources and links mentioned in this episode:
Connect with Eli on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abrakadabraink/
Buy Eli's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Eli-Gardner/author/B09VDZGX4M?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true
www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)
More about Christina Mattison and the Leading with Heart Podcast
Hey there! I'm Christina Mattison, an Air Force Officer, yoga teacher, dedicated wife, and proud mother of two. But most importantly, I'm here as a wellness and leadership coach for women in the military. I want you to know something: It doesn't have to be this way.
I've walked in your combat boots, and I understand the chaos that often accompanies military life. But I'm here to share a powerful truth with you: You have the innate ability to transform your own life. I've personally experienced this transformation, and I've witnessed it in the lives of countless clients I've had the privilege to guide.
Deep within you, lies the strength to design a life filled with joy, peace, and profound fulfillment. You don't have to conform to the mold of an overachieving robot to achieve success in the military. You can be authentically you and thrive.
Welcome to the Leading With Heart podcast — your ultimate resource for discovering how to infuse joy, peace, and true success into every facet of military life. Through research-based tools, expert interviews, and invaluable insights, these episodes will revolutionize your life.
Get ready to unlock your potential, uncover resilience, and discover the path to a life that aligns with your values and dreams. Join me as we navigate the challenges of military life together, finding balance, purpose, and well-being along the way.
Are you ready to embrace a life filled with joy, peace, and true success? Then it's time to tune in to the Leading With Heart podcast and embark on this transformative journey.
