Interview By Niurka Castaneda
Christine Walker’s story is a powerful testament to resilience and the transformative power of storytelling. A former United States Navy service member who served during Desert Storm, her journey from military life to becoming a leading voice in veteran advocacy is both inspiring and impactful.
For years, she grappled with feelings of alienation and a lack of connection with her fellow veterans. The unique mindset and experiences of military life made it challenging for her to relate to civilians and find her place in a world that seemed disconnected from her past.
When she transitioned out of the military, the support systems available were minimal. Without robust transition services, she navigated her post-service life through a series of diverse roles, from being a head designer for a Christmas tree decorating company to working in security and administration. Each step, though varied, added to her skill set and experience.
In 2017, Christine’s path took a pivotal turn when she began working at a small newspaper in North Texas. Her role in publishing ignited a passion for storytelling, leading her to start her own publishing company.
The launch of At Ease Veterans Magazine, an independent, veteran-owned, and 100% veteran-written publication dedicated to capturing the diverse voices and experiences of veterans, was a moment of both personal and professional significance. Inspired at the height of COVID-19, she recalls, “I was at the hospital, an hour and a half away from home, alone because there were no visitors allowed at the time. The Blue Angels were flying around hospitals, a gesture of solidarity during the pandemic, and it gave me hope.”
The magazine has since published its 14th issue, and she is proud of how much it has grown. With a team of six staff writers, nine feature writers, and up to 15 contributing writers per issue, At Ease Veterans Magazine covers a wide range of topics that matter to veterans. The content is as diverse as its readership, ranging from military history to personal stories, book reviews, and even illustrated features. The magazine prioritizes giving writers full creative freedom, allowing them to express themselves without censorship or filtering. This has resulted in a publication rich with different perspectives, offering something for everyone in the veteran community.
Running a print magazine in the digital age comes with its own set of challenges. Competing against digital fatigue, Christine and her team focus on the tangible value of print. There’s something special about holding a magazine in your hands, being able to pick it up, put it down, and come back to it whenever you want. However, print is not without its logistical hurdles. Printing costs are high, and distribution requires careful planning, especially as the subscriber base grows. Despite these hurdles, the magazine has reached over 65,000 veteran readers since its inception, all through word of mouth and strong relationships within the veteran community.
What began as a regional publication quickly evolved into a national magazine that is now a prominent voice in veteran advocacy, featuring stories from veterans across different eras and branches of the military. The magazine is unique in its commitment to presenting unfiltered, authentic narratives, with contributions from a team of veteran writers.
At Ease Veterans Magazine is not just about showcasing stories; it’s about making a difference. With a focus on issues like veteran suicide prevention, PTSD, and homelessness, the publication tackles these serious topics head-on. Partnering with organizations like American Water Projects’ Operation Deep Dive, the magazine provides critical insights and data on veteran self-mortality, offering a more comprehensive view than traditional sources.
The magazine is a vibrant tapestry of veteran voices, from combat veterans to those who served in support roles. She believes that every veteran’s story is crucial, contributing to a complete picture of military life. This inclusive approach ensures that the magazine reflects the full spectrum of veteran experiences, honoring their contributions and challenges.
Despite the challenges of running a print publication during a pandemic, her commitment remains unwavering. The magazine’s content spans 96 pages each quarter, featuring a mix of stories, book reviews, and illustrations. With a dedicated team and a growing subscriber base, At Ease Veterans Magazine continues to thrive, reaching over 65,000 veteran readers.
Christine’s journey exemplifies the power of storytelling in bridging gaps and fostering connections. By providing a platform for veterans to share their experiences, she has created a space where their voices are heard and valued. Her magazine is a beacon of hope and understanding, reflecting the diverse and rich experiences of the veteran community.
Christine Walker’s story is a reminder of the enduring strength and spirit of veterans. Through her magazine, she continues to honor their legacy, one story at a time.
