Episode 8 – Snakes and Ladders: The Hidden Cost of Military Life with Dr Barbara Morris

In this episode, Dr Barbara Morris shares her powerful story of life as a Defence spouse and the unpredictable “snakes and ladders” of building a career while navigating constant relocations.

Drawing on decades of lived experience and her PhD research, Barbara shines a light on the sacrifices, resilience, and realities

A quick note: The audio quality on this episode isn’t quite up to standard - we are working on the issue and appreciate your understanding.

In this heartfelt episode of Beyond The Uniform: The Untold Stories, we sit down with Army Warrant Officer Nicholas Barrand, his wife Tammie, and their daughters Reaghan and Zoe to explore what 30 years of service and more than 18 years as a Defence family really looks like. With 8 relocations, 5 schools, and the ever-present uncertainty that comes with military life, their journey is one of deep love, resilience, and unwavering commitment to each other.

This is a story about sacrifice. But it’s also about strength, connection, and the quiet moments that often go unseen.

We are honoured to welcome Shamsa Lea to the mic: an award-winning leader, senior Air Force veteran, and passionate advocate for gender equity.

From deployments in Afghanistan, PNG, and the Middle East to executive roles across Defence, Deloitte, and now Anglicare WA, Shamsa’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

As co-founder of Propel Her Australia – the Defence Women’s Leadership Series and a sought-after keynote speaker, Shamsa shares powerful reflections on transitioning from service, leading with purpose, and redefining identity beyond the uniform.