Partners of Commercial Fishermen

Part 2: From Loneliness to Fulfillment (even when you’re alone) with Brenda Winkle

This episode is Part 2: From Loneliness to Fulfillment (even when you’re alone) with Brenda Winkle. I invite you to catch Part 1 on Brenda’s podcast called Your Yes-Filled Life! 
 In this raw and heartfelt episode, Brenda and I share personal stories of loneliness and anxiety and what it means to build a life of connection and meaning.
From my cross-country drive toward a sober life in California to Brenda’s empty-nest revelation that shook her to the core, we explore how loneliness can hit us even when we're surrounded by people — and how healing begins when we allow ourselves to be seen.
We unpack:
The difference between being alone and feeling lonely
Somatic or physical ways to manage anxiety and stress
The role of meditation and breathwork in building emotional resilience
The power of community (and how to start one from scratch!)
Tools to reconnect with yourself during difficult transitions
This episode is for anyone navigating change, craving deeper connection, or seeking peace in the quiet moments. Let's Dive In!
✨ Resources Mentioned:
Your Yes Filled Life Podcast: https://www.brendawinkle.com/podcasts/your-yes-filled-life
Energy Audit - in just 10 minutes, get clarity around what's really fueling and draining you: https://www.brendawinkle.com/audit
Meditation to Feel Better: https://www.brendawinkle.com/feelbetter
5 Quick Tips to Surviving a Fishing Season: https://partners-of-commercial-fishermen.kit.com/917e778540
MUST-HAVES:
🛟 Our Go-To Safety Gear - Kent Safety Products
#1 reason fishermen wear PFDs? “Because my partner tells me to.” If you want to ensure your fisherman has the best gear to stay safe on the water, check out KentSafetyProducts.com.
⚖️ Free Consultation with a commercial fishing lawyer! Contact Attorney Michael Flynn for a FREE consultation via call or text: 617-773-5500, Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com, Visit FlynnWirkus.com
 
RESOURCES FOR POCFS!
⚓️ Your Home Port: pocfpride.com – The go-to hub for Partners of Commercial Fishermen (POCFs).
📱 Connect on Instagram: @megan.waldrep – Stay in the loop and engage with the POCF community.
💬 Private Group Chat: Instantly connect with fellow POCFs who understand your unique lifestyle. Click here to learn more!
📘 eBook – Survival Guide 101:The book I wish existed when I began dating my fisherman! Learn how to go from "WTF?" to "F*ck Yeah!" in your relationship with this helpful guide.
🔗Check out all of our offers here!

True Funny Story about Perimenopause & Couples (How to Communicate Your Needs When You Don't Know What To Say)

Today, we dive into a true (and truly funny) story about navigating the emotional rollercoaster of perimenopause while trying to keep communication open—and your relationship intact. (If you've ever snapped at your partner for breathing too loudly, this one's for you.)
In this episode, you'll hear:
A real-life/tense perimenopausal moment between Chris and me.
Why it’s so hard to explain what you need when you don’t even understand what’s happening yourself.
How to start conversations with your partner without making it a blame game.
Whether you’re in the throes of hormonal “activation” or supporting someone who is, this episode is your reminder that love, laughter, some crying, and a little grace go a long way. Let’s Dive In!
MUST-HAVES:
🛟 Go-To Safety Gear - Kent Safety Products
#1 reason fishermen wear PFDs? “Because my partner tells me to.” If you want to ensure your fisherman has the best gear to stay safe on the water, check out KentSafetyProducts.com.
 
⚖️ Free Consultation with a Commercial Fishing Lawyer! Contact Attorney Michael Flynn for a FREE consultation via call or text: 617-773-5500, Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com, Visit FlynnWirkus.com
 
RESOURCES FOR POCFS!
⚓️ Your Home Port: pocfpride.com – The go-to hub for Partners of Commercial Fishermen (POCFs).
📱 Connect on Instagram: @megan.waldrep – Stay in the loop and engage with the POCF community.
💬 Private Group Chat: Instantly connect with fellow POCFs who understand your unique lifestyle. Click here to learn more!
📘 eBook – Survival Guide 101:The book I wish existed when I began dating my fisherman! Learn how to go from "WTF?" to "F*ck Yeah!" in your relationship with this helpful guide.
🔗Check out all of our offers here!
 

Yes! You Can Recycle Fishing Gear (and here's how to do it!) with Nicole Baker of Net Your Problem

Nicole Baker is a marine biologist and founder of Net Your Problem, an organization helping commercial fishing communities recycle their old gear and reduce plastic, without sacrificing their livelihoods. 
In this episode, Nicole explains firsthand how discarded gear gets sent to landfills and how she decided to do something about it.
From the logistics of collecting old gear to the powerful partnerships she’s building with fishermen and POCFs, Nicole offers real-world insight into how sustainability can support—not threaten—our working waterfronts. 
Whether you're a commercial fisherman, a Partner of a Commercial Fisherman, or just someone who loves the ocean, this episode is full of inspiration, practical action, and hope for the future of fishing. 
Let’s Dive In!
Resources & Links:
🌐 Net Your Problem Website
IG and FB: @netyourproblem
LinkedIn: @netyourproblem
YouTube: @netyourproblem 
📰 On the POCF Blog: Recycling Nets & Fishing Gear? How The F Do They Do it?!
https://meganwaldrep.com/recycle-nets-gear/
 
MUST-HAVES:
🛟 Go-To Safety Gear - Kent Safety Products
#1 reason fishermen wear PFDs? “Because my partner tells me to.” If you want to ensure your fisherman has the best gear to stay safe on the water, check out KentSafetyProducts.com.
 
⚖️ Free Consultation with a Commercial Fishing Lawyer! Contact Attorney Michael Flynn for a FREE consultation via call or text: 617-773-5500, Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com, Visit FlynnWirkus.com
 
RESOURCES FOR POCFS!
⚓️ Your Home Port: pocfpride.com – The go-to hub for Partners of Commercial Fishermen (POCFs).
📱 Connect on Instagram: @megan.waldrep – Stay in the loop and engage with the POCF community.
📘 eBook – Survival Guide 101:The book I wish existed when I began dating my fisherman! Learn how to go from "WTF?" to "F*ck Yeah!" in your relationship with this helpful guide.
🔗Check out all of our offers here!
 

Caught Off Guard: When Your Fisherman Comes Home & Doesn't Text or Call First

Do you ever get overwhelmed when your fisherman comes home without notice? SAME!
In this episode, we get real about those moments when you just need a minute before switching from solo mode to partner mode—and how hard that can be to express.
You'll hear:
A relatable story that proves you're not alone in needing a heads-up.
A few gentle scripts and mindset shifts to help you speak up for what you need, even when it feels awkward.
How to avoid guilt when you’re craving quiet but love your partner deeply.
Let's Dive In!
 
MUST-HAVES:
🛟 Go-To Safety Gear - Kent Safety Products
#1 reason fishermen wear PFDs? “Because my partner tells me to.” If you want to ensure your fisherman has the best gear to stay safe on the water, check out KentSafetyProducts.com.
 
⚖️ Free Consultation with a Commercial Fishing Lawyer! Contact Attorney Michael Flynn for a FREE consultation via call or text: 617-773-5500, Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com, Visit FlynnWirkus.com
 
RESOURCES FOR POCFS!
⚓️ Your Home Port: pocfpride.com – The go-to hub for Partners of Commercial Fishermen (POCFs).
📱 Connect on Instagram: @megan.waldrep – Stay in the loop and engage with the POCF community.
💬 Private Group Chat: Instantly connect with fellow POCFs who understand your unique lifestyle. Click here to learn more!
📘 eBook – Survival Guide 101:The book I wish existed when I began dating my fisherman! Learn how to go from "WTF?" to "F*ck Yeah!" in your relationship with this helpful guide.
🔗Check out all of our offers here!
 

PTSD, Sleep, and Safety in Commercial Fishing + What We Can Do To Help Our Fishermen with Amanda Roome

Many of us don't think about how PTSD and sleep deprivation can affect our fishermen's mental health, both short-term and long-term. But there are ways to lessen the burden, and today's guest explains how. 
Amanda "Mandy" Roome is a Research Scientist at the Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety in Cooperstown, NY
In this episode, Mandy shares:
What PTSD really is, and how to check if you have it.
Understanding fatigue and sleep deprivation on the job
Learning more about fishermen's brain health and improvement strategies
Safety research and how organizations can build trust with fishing communities
Let's Dive In!
Show Resources:
Amanda (Mandy) Roome, PhD Research Scientist, Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety in Cooperstown, NY 🌐 https://necenter.org/fishing 
📱 Facebook: NEC Fish
 
RESOURCES FOR POCFS!
⚓️ Your Home Port: pocfpride.com – The go-to hub for Partners of Commercial Fishermen (POCFs).
📱 Connect on Instagram: @megan.waldrep – Stay in the loop and engage with the POCF community.
💬 Private Group Chat: Instantly connect with fellow POCFs who understand your unique lifestyle. Click here to learn more!
📘 eBook – Survival Guide 101:The book I wish existed when I began dating my fisherman! Learn how to go from "WTF?" to "F*ck Yeah!" in your relationship with this helpful guide.
🔗Check out all of our offers here!
 

Want Your Fisherman to Wear a PFD? Say This: Prompts to Get Your Fisherman to Wear Safety Gear

Today’s episode is powerful—it could literally save your fisherman’s life AND ease your stress each time they leave the dock. (Can I get an AMEN?! 🙌)
Highlights of Today’s Episode:
Why your voice matters more than you think
Messages and convo starters to gently encourage PFD use
How to tailor the conversation to your fisherman’s experience, body type, and needs
Real feedback from our Instagram community during Boat Safety Week
Catch the full episode now using the links below! Better yet? Pop on the download and save them for later. This may be the most important conversation you have had with them yet. You've got this!
RESOURCES FOR POCFS!
⚓️ Your Home Port: pocfpride.com – The go-to hub for Partners of Commercial Fishermen (POCFs).
📱 Connect on Instagram: @megan.waldrep – Stay in the loop and engage with the POCF community.
💬 Private Group Chat: Instantly connect with fellow POCFs who understand your unique lifestyle. Click here to learn more!
📘 eBook – Survival Guide 101:The book I wish existed when I began dating my fisherman! Learn how to go from "WTF?" to "F*ck Yeah!" in your relationship with this helpful guide.
🌟 The Lighthouse Collective: A global membership space for POCFs to gain tools, resources, and meaningful community connection—available year-round. Click here to join!
🔗 Check out all of our offers here!
 
MUST-HAVES:
🛟 Our Go-To Safety Gear - Kent Safety Products
#1 reason fishermen wear PFDs? “Because my partner tells me to.” If you want to ensure your fisherman has the best gear to stay safe on the water, check out KentSafetyProducts.com.
 
⚖️ Attorney Michael Flynn - whom we trust with personal injury legal needs for our fishing families:
Contact Michael for a FREE consultation via call or text: 617-773-5500, Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com, Visit FlynnWirkus.com
 
Seaworthy Foundation: Working to improve vessel stability and safety equipment for commercial fishermen. Their efforts include pushing for better safety regulations to protect those working at sea. Visit Seaworthy Foundation
 

Redefining Safety: Choosing Life Jackets Fishermen Actually Wear with Len Nelson of Kent Safety Products

Fun Fact: #1 reason fishermen wear PFDs? Because their Partners tell them to! ⚓️ (We have more influence than we think!)
In this episode, we’re diving into the world of commercial fishing safety gear with Len Nelson of Kent Safety Products, a trusted name in personal flotation devices (PFDs). 
From engineering PFDs that balance comfort and protection to collaborating with fishermen and safety organizations, Len offers a behind-the-scenes look at how innovation shapes the future of fishing safety. We also discuss common misconceptions around PFDs, advancements in technology, and how wearing one can save lives, not just physically, but emotionally, for families back home.
Show Resources: KentSafetyProducts.com
Highlights: 
What sets Kent Safety Products’ PFDs apart for commercial fishermen
The crucial balance of safety vs. comfort, and collaborating with fishermen to test and improve gear
Recent technological advancements in PFDs
Addressing the biggest myths and hesitations around wearing life jackets
How Kent designs PFDs for hot and cold environments to fit any fisherman's needs
Environmentally-conscious initiatives in gear manufacturing
Ways to try before you buy, plus grant programs for free gear.
Special Mention: Kent Safety Gear is now an official sponsor of the POCF community! Their commitment to keeping fishermen safe through high-quality gear is why we proudly partner with them.
RESOURCES FOR POCFS!
⚓️ Your Home Port: pocfpride.com – The go-to hub for Partners of Commercial Fishermen (POCFs).
📱 Connect on Instagram: @megan.waldrep – Stay in the loop and engage with the POCF community.
💬 Private Group Chat: Instantly connect with fellow POCFs who understand your unique lifestyle. Click here to learn more!
📘 eBook – Survival Guide 101: The book I wish existed when I began dating my fisherman! Learn how to go from "WTF?" to "F*ck Yeah!" in your relationship with this helpful guide.
🌟 The Lighthouse Collective: A global membership space for POCFs to gain tools, resources, and meaningful community connection—available year-round. Click here to join!
🔗 Explore All Offers: Click here to view everything we’ve created to support you!
POCF MUST-HAVES:
Our Go-To Safety Gear - Kent Safety Products
#1 reason fishermen wear PFDs? “Because my partner tells me to.” If you want to ensure your fisherman has the best gear to stay safe on the water, check out KentSafetyProducts.com.
Attorney Michael Flynn - whom we trust with personal injury legal needs for our fishing families:
Contact Michael for a FREE consultation via call or text: 617-773-5500, Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com, Visit FlynnWirkus.com

Legal Insights Every Fisherman Needs with Attorney Michael Flynn

*FREE consultations for POCFs and Fishermen!*
In the second part of our conversation with Attorney Michael Flynn, we dive into the specifics of handling injuries at sea and the legal steps you need to take to protect your family. Michael breaks down how the Jones Act and Seaman’s Protection Act come into play during personal injury cases and what it means for fishing families seeking compensation.
We also discuss the practicalities of hiring a lawyer, how legal fees work, and what you can expect when working with an attorney. Plus, Michael answers your questions about maritime law submitted via the POCF private community and social media!
Key Takeaways:
What to expect from legal fees and the process when working with a maritime lawyer
How Michael Flynn supports fishing families and his process for injury cases
Answers to your questions about maritime law submitted via the POCF community and social media
Contact Attorney Michael Flynn:
Contact Michael for a FREE consultation via call or text: 617-773-5500
Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com
Website: FlynnWirkus.com
Special Mention: Michael Flynn is now a proud sponsor of the POCF community. Listen in to hear why we trust him with the legal needs of our fishing families!
Additional Resources:
1. Maritime Law & Fishermen’s Rights
National Maritime Law Center: This organization provides resources and legal support specifically for injured maritime workers. Learn more about your rights at sea. Visit the National Maritime Law Center
2. Safety Regulations for Commercial Fishing
Seaworthy Foundation: Working to improve vessel stability and safety equipment for commercial fishermen. Their efforts include pushing for better safety regulations to protect those working at sea. Visit Seaworthy Foundation
3. The Jones Act Explained
Jones Act Overview: This article explains in detail what the Jones Act is, its benefits, and how it protects maritime workers in the U.S. Read More About the Jones Act
4. Free Consultations with Attorney Michael Flynn
Remember, Attorney Michael Flynn offers free consultations for commercial fishing injuries. If you ever need legal advice or help with a case, reach out to him:📞 Phone or Text: 617-773-5500📧 Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com🌐 Website: FlynnWirkus.com
 
5. Our Go-To Safety Gear
If you want to ensure your fisherman has the best gear to stay safe on the water, check out KentSafetyProducts.com.
 
RESOURCES FOR POCFS!
⚓️ Your Home Port: pocfpride.com – The go-to hub for Partners of Commercial Fishermen (POCFs).
📱 Connect on Instagram: @megan.waldrep – Stay in the loop and engage with the POCF community.
💬 Private Group Chat: Instantly connect with fellow POCFs who understand your unique lifestyle. Click here to learn more!
📘 eBook – Survival Guide 101:The book I wish existed when I began dating my fisherman! Learn how to go from "WTF?" to "F*ck Yeah!" in your relationship with this helpful guide.
🌟 The Lighthouse Collective: A global membership space for POCFs to gain tools, resources, and meaningful community connection—available year-round. Click here to join!
🔗Explore All Offers: Click here to view everything we’ve created to support you!
Check out all of our offers here!
 

Navigating the Legal Waters: Your Rights as a Fisherman & POCF with Attorney Michael Flynn

*FREE consultations for all POCFs and fishermen!*
In this episode, we sit down with Attorney Michael Flynn to discuss the fundamental legal protections for commercial fishermen.
As part of our ongoing effort to help fishing families understand the laws that affect them, Michael unpacks essential maritime laws, discusses how proactive education can help fishermen avoid legal pitfalls, and what steps to take if an injury occurs aboard.
Key Takeaways:
Knowing your rights before an injury can make a huge difference.
The importance of understanding maritime law for both fishermen and their partners
Practical tips for dealing with maritime injury cases
Contact Attorney Michael Flynn:
Contact Michael for a FREE consultation via call or text: 617-773-5500
Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com
Website: FlynnWirkus.com
Special Mention: Michael Flynn is now a proud sponsor of the POCF community. Listen in to hear why we trust him with the legal needs of our fishing families!
Additional Resources:
1. Maritime Law & Fishermen’s Rights
National Maritime Law Center: This organization provides resources and legal support specifically for injured maritime workers. Learn more about your rights at sea. Visit the National Maritime Law Center
2. Safety Regulations for Commercial Fishing
Seaworthy Foundation: Working to improve vessel stability and safety equipment for commercial fishermen. Their efforts include pushing for better safety regulations to protect those working at sea. Visit Seaworthy Foundation
3. The Jones Act Explained
Jones Act Overview: This article explains in detail what the Jones Act is, its benefits, and how it protects maritime workers in the U.S. Read More About the Jones Act
4. Free Consultations with Attorney Michael Flynn
Remember, Attorney Michael Flynn offers free consultations for commercial fishing injuries. If you ever need legal advice or help with a case, reach out to him:📞 Phone or Text: 617-773-5500📧 Email: mflynn@flynnwirkus.com🌐 Website: FlynnWirkus.com
 
5. Our Go-To Safety Gear
If you want to ensure your fisherman has the best gear to stay safe on the water, check out KentSafetyProducts.com.
 
RESOURCES FOR POCFS!
⚓️ Your Home Port: pocfpride.com – The go-to hub for Partners of Commercial Fishermen (POCFs).
📱 Connect on Instagram: @megan.waldrep – Stay in the loop and engage with the POCF community.
💬 Private Group Chat: Instantly connect with fellow POCFs who understand your unique lifestyle. Click here to learn more!
📘 eBook – Survival Guide 101:The book I wish existed when I began dating my fisherman! Learn how to go from "WTF?" to "F*ck Yeah!" in your relationship with this helpful guide.
🌟 The Lighthouse Collective: A global membership space for POCFs to gain tools, resources, and meaningful community connection—available year-round. Click here to join!
🔗Explore All Offers: Click here to view everything we’ve created to support you!
Check out all of our offers here!
 

Learning to Embrace Loneliness — And Finding Strength in Being Alone

Today, I'm sharing a personal story about loneliness that surprised me this year — and how facing it head-on changed everything. Instead of numbing out with substances like I used to, I embraced the feeling with curiosity... and something profound happened.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
A 5-minute practice to move through hard emotions
How sobriety and letting go of old coping habits changed my life
Setting boundaries with people, social media, and yourself, plus 3 Solo Date Ideas from the POCF community!
✨ Favorite Quote: "If people could learn the skill and wisdom of meditation, they would have a good chance of being freed from their fear of being alone, their fear of death, and other imaginary worries." — The Magical Life of the Lotus Born
✨ Join the POCF Community! Sign up for the newsletter and get exclusive updates, advice, and support: Newsletter Signup Here.
Review and Receive!: If you find this helpful or want to show further support for the podcast, please leave a short review and email me a screenshot to support@pocfpride.com! Your review helps more POCFs (and anyone who needs it) find our awesome community. Thank you!