The Megan Waldrep Podcast

8 Emotions You May Have When Your Fisherman is Away

Having a loving relationship AND solo time during a fishing season is an incredible gift many relationships never experience.
Though missing your partner and worrying for their safety are inevitable feelings when your partner is at sea, there is also a freakin’ awesome side to having more time for yourself, like focusing on your wants and needs. Cultivating a strong, independent life and learning what brings you joy is a gift you’ll carry throughout your lifetime.
However, not all POCFs initially feel this way, and that’s normal. Allow yourself time to adjust and find your flow each season. (I still remind myself of this!) 
In this episode, we discuss the emotions you can expect to feel during a separation and how to get through them. 
 
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> [FREE]Visit the Lifestyle Blog where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. Join us at pocfpride.com
> [JOIN] The POCF Private Forum delivers valuable and helpful resources important to our unique lifestyle monthly. You can also connect with other like-minded POCFs worldwide to learn about their experience, ask questions, and get personalized support. It's a treasure box curated just for you. Click here to join the private forum!
> [JOIN] If you're seeking real-time support from people who understand what you're going through, we got you! Our lively group text chat is a space you can connect anytime. Sound fun? Click here to register and join the private chat!
 

Letter: I Don't Feel Strong All The Time Ep. 55

A question many POCFs ask themselves when beginning to date a fisherman - Can I Handle It?
In this episode, I reveal a heartfelt and relatable letter from a Partner of a Commercial Fisherman wondering if this lifestyle is for her. I also give advice on how I've worked through similar feelings and ways we can connect to uplift each other through the on and off-seasons. Let's Dive In!
 
Show Resources:
Your Sex Life & Dating a Commercial Fisherman
 
EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS!
 
> [FREE] Visit the Lifestyle Blog where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com
 
> [JOIN] The POCF Private Forum delivers valuable and helpful resources important to our unique lifestyle monthly. You can also connect with other like-minded POCFs worldwide to learn about their experience, ask questions, and get personalized support. It's a treasure box curated just for you. Click here to join the private forum!
 
> [JOIN] If you're seeking real-time support from people who understand what you're going through, we got you! Our lively group text chat is a space you can connect anytime. Sound fun? Click here to register and join the private chat!

Child-Free Experience: How I Came to the Decision Not to Have Kids as a POCF

Child-Free Experience: How I Came to the Decision Not to Have Kids We’re talking about the choice not to have children and what that experience has been like as a 42-year-old Partner of a Commercial Fisherman. In this episode, I touch on: Interviews with 10 women, ranging from 19 to late sixties, on why they do or do not have kids Deciding factors as a Partner of a Commercial Fisherman The stigmas of child-free women Real thoughts and concerns of those who don’t have kids Feeling confident in your decision to have kids or not  I share to normalize women making decisions for themselves and not what society, family, or friends feel like they should do.   Also, I am sensitive to those who are trying to have children and are having difficulty and those who want a child more than anything and aren’t able to conceive. Please skip this episode if the topic is too much right now. I hold space for you and send so much love. Alright. Let’s get personal, shall we?  Show Resources: Blog Post: Why Have Kids? Part 1 Blog Post: Why Have Kids? Part 2 Nikki Glaser Stand Up on MAX EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku  

Happy 1 Year Anniversary Thanks to YOU!

Happy one-year anniversary of the POCF Podcast! I can’t believe a year has passed, and it’s been really special. I’ve loved being able to take the love and goodness I pour into the lifestyle blog and turn it into another way to connect with you!  Since launching the podcast in May of 2023, we’ve met other POCFs and have gotten inspired by their experiences in this lifestyle, we’ve covered important topics such as motherhood, mental health, addiction, finances, health, art, creativity, and, of course, relationships and so much more. Thank you for listening and coming back each week to hang out. I’m so honored you chose to spend time w me and our community. We’ve really built this together, and I’m so thankful and honored to serve you.  In honor of the one-year anniversary, I’m sharing testimonials from listeners and blog readers.  I share not to boast but to show that we are out there, in different parts of the world, and can relate to each other on a lifestyle many do not understand. If it weren’t for you, I’d be a writer, blogging about this life and feeling alone in my own path, wondering if others felt the same. But, because you show up to this podcast, and comment on the blog and Instagram, you show up for us all. WE are an incredible community, and everything I do is dedicated to you. Show Resources! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!

Pt 2. How I’m Working Through Feelings of Longing for A Fast Approaching Fishing Season Ep. 52

In this episode, I share the "Aha" moment I had after recording the previous episode (Part 1). After weeks of feeling kinda low about the fast-approaching fishing season in Bristol Bay, AK, I discovered the one "remedy" that helped me get out of the funk and back into enjoying day-to-day life with my fisherman again. I hope this helps if you're feeling this way, too! Let's normalize having BIG feelings at any stage of the POCF game! In this episode, I give a real-time, first-hand account of how I'm currently working through the feelings of longing/sadness for a fast-approaching season.  It's easy to get hard on ourselves for experiencing the ups and downs of emotions whether you're in the on- or off-season. However, instead of feeling punk for letting this get to me after 8+ years together, I remember that not all seasons are the same, and sometimes you feel the feels more than others. This is normal 🫶 Snapping back to enjoying time together is the real trick. Otherwise, we’ll catch ourselves in a cycle of longing instead of taking advantage of the joys and FREEDOM of the off-season. If you’re feeling this way or have in the past, it's okay! It will pass and you will continue to thrive. Speaking to you on this episode feels like a chat with a BFF, a confessional, and a therapy session all in one. It's more proof that, no matter how long you've been with your fisherman, we can all relate – We Are Not Alone!  Show Resources: > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  

Pt 1: How I’m Working Through Feelings of Longing for A Fast Approaching Fishing Season

Let's normalize having BIG feelings at any stage of the POCF game! In this episode, I give a real-time, first-hand account of how I'm currently working through the feelings of longing/sadness for a fast-approaching season. The other morning over coffee, Chris said to himself, “I’m going back to Alaska this summer to run another boat.” As much as I love time to myself, the thought of another goodbye makes my heart drop.  It's easy to get hard on ourselves for experiencing the ups and downs of emotions whether you're in the on- or off-season. However, instead of feeling punk for letting this get to me after 8+ years together, I remember that not all seasons are the same, and sometimes you feel the feels more than others. This is normal 🫶 Snapping back to enjoying time together is the real trick. Otherwise, we’ll catch ourselves in a cycle of longing instead of taking advantage of the joys and FREEDOM of the off-season. If you’re feeling this way or have in the past, it's okay! It will pass and you will continue to thrive. Speaking to you on this episode feels like a chat with a BFF, a confessional, and a therapy session all in one. It's more proof that, no matter how long you've been with your fisherman, we can all relate – We Are Not Alone!  Show Resources: > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!

How Fishermen + POCFs Can Live Pain Free Without Surgery with Physical Therapist Dr. Colleen Rollo of Paradigm Performance Therapy

What I want most is for Partners of Commercial Fishermen to thrive in this unique lifestyle, and living without pain is definitely a huge part of that. That's why I'm happy to introduce you to my personal Physical Therapist, Dr. Colleen Rollo of Paradigm Performance Therapy.  I started going to Dr. Colleen in 2022 when I was experiencing symptoms related to carpal tunnel from repetitive movements due to writing on a computer daily. I worried I needed surgery, but was amazed how quickly I healed thanks to her personal exercises, 1:1 sessions, and the ability to ask her questions via text when needed. Talk about personal service! In this episode, we discuss: The similarities between manual labor and young moms and how to relieve pain and prevent injury from repetitive movements such as lifting traps, gear, or picking up your cute kids (or neices and nephews!).  We also talk about ways to identify pain and the steps to healing with actionable exercise recommendations from the doctor. And what to do when you're feeling pain but must work through it. I know moms and fishermen know this all too well.  Yep, there are so many good nuggets in this one that can help us maintain optimal health so we can continue to enjoy our lives the way we want.  Let's dive in! Show Notes:  Massage Cane: https://amzn.to/444ARKi Lacross Ball Massager: https://amzn.to/3W0HkE1 Show Resources: Website: www.paradigmperformancetherapy.com Follow Dr. Colleen on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/paradigmperformancetherapy/ Check out PPT’s YouTube for specific stretch and strengthening exercises:  https://www.youtube.com/@paradigmperformancetherapy7812  

How Depression, Addiction, + Pregnancy Loss Turned into Motherhood & a Family Seafood Business with Adra Kusnirova Ep. 49

Adra Kusnirova is a former partner of a commercial fishing processor and part owner of a direct marketing family seafood business called Alaska Fresh. In this episode, we go deeper than just talking about business. We discuss long-distance dating and the challenges of living in remote Alaska with her partner, the isolation and depression she experienced during the rainy summers, and how she used alcohol to cope with depression and pregnancy loss. Adra also the way in which she prioritized her mental health to help get her out of the downward spiral.  Of course, this story ends on a positive note! We talk about their family business, Alaska Fresh, how the Kusnirs learned the ropes by trial and error and a lot of grit, and their mission to support and promote commercial fishermen. Adra also discusses the joys of being a mom. This episode is packed with real talk and relatable stories that show courage and resilience that we can all relate to, and I hope you get some great takeaways as I did. Let’s dive in! SHOW RESOURCES: Order online: https://www.alaskafreshsalmon.com/shop Follow @alaskafreshsalmon on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok  EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku > [FREE] Never let paying taxes from fishing income drain your bank account again! Click here to grab the FREE Budget Guide for Commercial Fishing Couples to Thrive that will help you build wealth, track income and expenses, grow investments, manage debt, and more!  

POCF Science Writer Danielle Hall on Why Fishermen Need to be Heard To Help The Environment Ep. 48

POCF Danielle Hall is the Digital Producer for the Ocean Portal for the Smithsonian Institution and runs the Smithsonian National Museum's ocean education website. Danielle was featured on the POCF blog in 2021 when she first moved in with her fisherman on a small Island in Maine. At the time, she had no real background in commercial fishing, and acclimating to a very small fishing community was a big challenge. It’s interesting to hear how life has changed for Danielle, including becoming an advocate for commercial fishing communities in addition to her work as a scientist.  Danielle recently DM’d me with a message that I know many fishing couples and families have had behind closed doors: Fishermen are important resources for scientists and researchers to learn how to preserve the environment.  Today, we’re checking in with Danielle to hear about her comment on a federal initiative she recently submitted. Danielle is also a great example of how POCFs contribute to fishery policy and how we have and can affect change. Let’s give Danielle the floor. Show Resources:  Connect with Danielle on Instagram: @danikhall  Click here for Danielle Hall’s 2021 Interview on our Lifestyle Blog: https://meganwaldrep.com/maine-fishing-smithsonian/ Link to Federal Biodiversity Call for Comment: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/11/09/2023-24839/request-for-information-national-ocean-biodiversity-strategy EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku

POCF, Singer/Songwriter, & Restauranteur Sara Bug on the Creative Process + Dating a Gulf Coast Fisherman Ep. 47

On today’s episode, POCF, Singer/Songwriter, & Restauranteur Sara Bug comes to us from Nashville, Tennessee.  If you’re curious about the singer-songwriter's creative process, love live music, or want to learn a little about running a family seafood restaurant, this episode is for you.  Inside the episode, Sara shares: how she and her family started a restaurant selling Gulf Coast seafood How she maintains a long-distant relationship with a Gulf Coast Fisherman And insight into her creative process while writing her new album, Into the Blue.   Here’s How to Link with Sara and her music: Linktree to music: https://linktr.ee/sarabugofficial Instagram: @sarabugofficial  https://www.instagram.com/sarabugofficial/ Other Show Resources: The Greatest Night in Pop on Netflix EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR POCFS! > [FREE] 👯‍♀️ Visit the Lifestyle Blog! ⚓️This is where it all started. Our blog is a go-to resource for all things related to the Partners of Commercial Fishermen lifestyle! If you’re unsure where to start, consider this your home port. ➡️ Join us at pocfpride.com > [Join] Connect with other POCFs on questions you may have & get 1:1 support from me in the private forum! We also have a lively group text chat you don't want to miss. If it feels aligned for you, click here in to join the private forum!  https://mailchi.mp/meganwaldrep/h5sjzsapku