Stand Up, Step Out, and Say Yes: The Extraordinary Life of Major General Mari K. Eder

 "No one else was going to push me, so I pushed myself."

In this moving and wide-ranging conversation, retired U.S. Army Major General Mari K. Eder joins host Stacey to share her journey through a 36-year military career, her lifelong pursuit of purpose, and her mission to spotlight the unsung heroes of history. From her beginnings as a public relations specialist in the military to becoming one of a handful of female generals, Mari opens up about breaking barriers, the value of persistence, and the power of strategic communication. She also shares her passion for writing, her love for rescue dogs, and how she's honoring the courageous women who "stepped out of line" to change the world. Whether you're a history buff, aspiring leader, or dog lover, this episode is rich with heart, grit, and inspiration.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why Mari K. Eder joined the military and how she forged a groundbreaking path
• The importance of women’s stories in military history and why they're often untold
• How humor, communication, and resilience shaped her leadership style
• Insights into writing history, finding primary sources, and preserving truth
• The role of strategic communication in both military and civilian life
• Why she fosters dogs and how rescue work became her passion project

Major General Mari K. Eder (Ret.) is an accomplished leader, author, and speaker. With a 36-year career in the U.S. Army, she served as a commanding officer, public affairs expert, and advocate for military women. She is the author of several books, including The Girls Who Stepped Out of Line, The Girls Who Fought Crime, and the forthcoming The Girls Who Beat the Odds. She also writes humorous dog-themed books and is deeply involved in animal rescue. A celebrated speaker on leadership and strategic communication, Mari continues to inspire through her storytelling and service.

Follow Mari:

• Instagram

• Website

• Linkedin
•  Facebook
• Books: Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/47zmHD9

Resources & Links:

• Military Women's Memorial: https://womensmemorial.org
• JSTOR (research database): https://www.jstor.org
• Foundation for Women Warriors: https://foundationforwomenwarriors.org

If you were inspired by Mari's journey, consider sharing this episode with a friend. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and follow us on your favorite platform. Your support helps us continue telling stories that matter. Step out of line—and into your potential.

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