The Documentary Podcast

Women warriors

8 snips
May 11, 2025
Alison Jaslow, a former Captain who bravely served in Iraq, shares her compelling experiences as a woman in combat. The discussion sheds light on the growing participation of women in military roles yet highlights the stagnation in recruitment and retention. Jaslow reflects on the emotional toll of juggling family and duty, the sexism faced in the ranks, and the vital contributions women make in modern warfare. Unfolding personal stories reveal the challenges and triumphs women encounter as they fight for recognition and equality in a predominantly male environment.
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INSIGHT

Women Often Erased in Combat History

  • Women have been part of combat throughout history but were mostly erased from official records.
  • Many presumed that warriors in graves traditionally assigned to men could not be women due to bias.
ANECDOTE

From Tattoo Artist to Frontline Commander

  • Alexandra volunteered for frontline combat in Ukraine despite initially being a tattoo and piercing artist.
  • She earned respect by proving her abilities equal to male soldiers and now commands a mortar platoon.
INSIGHT

Women Return Home, Men Lead

  • Historically, women soldiers are pushed back into domestic roles after wars, unlike men who often enter leadership.
  • Women's wartime contributions seldom translate into lasting political or leadership opportunities.
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