Commanding the Narrative with Theresa Carpenter

The Trusted Friend

Disclaimer: 

Views expressed on this podcast are those of the guest and not behalf of the Department of Defense or the Navy. 

Meet Theresa Carpenter—Navy Commander, storyteller, and advocate for change. With 28 years of service, including a decade as an enlisted aviation electrician, she’s tackled the challenges of military life head-on. From leading public affairs for NATO’s Allied Maritime Command to orchestrating a high-profile naval exercise in India that caught the attention of President Trump, her career has been nothing short of extraordinary.

But behind the accolades and achievements, Theresa has faced her own battles—struggles with alcohol, feelings of inadequacy, and the mental toll of a demanding career. She knows firsthand how difficult it can be to ask for help in a military culture that often values toughness over vulnerability. Now, she’s on a mission to change that. Through her storytelling, podcast Stories of Service (S.O.S.), and advocacy, she’s shining a light on the realities of mental health and addiction in the armed forces, pushing for better support systems for those who serve.

In this episode, Theresa opens up about what it’s really like to be a woman in the Navy, the pressures of leadership, and her journey toward healing and self-acceptance. Whether you’re here for military insight, leadership lessons, or an inspiring story of resilience, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What it’s really like to serve at the highest levels of military leadership

• The mental and emotional toll of military life—and how Theresa turned things around

• What goes on behind closed doors in naval training and strategic exercises

• The surprising role of international collaboration in military readiness

• Why conversations around mental health and fairness in the military are more important than ever

Theresa Carpenter Mobile Briefcase

Theresa's Podcast on Youtube