If you’ve ever wondered who you’re supposed to call, ask, or trust when Navy life feels overwhelming — this episode is for you.
In this episode of Our Navy Life, host Teal Yost sits down with Susan Fox, Director of the COMPASS program at Naval Services FamilyLine, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of COMPASS — a spouse-to-spouse program that has helped Navy families navigate military life with confidence, clarity, and connection.
Susan shares her own journey as a Navy spouse and volunteer mentor, beginning with her first COMPASS class in Guam and continuing through years of service supporting spouses worldwide. Together, Teal and Susan explore how COMPASS equips families with practical knowledge, emotional support, and community — ensuring no spouse has to figure out Navy life alone.
Whether you’re brand new to the Navy, a seasoned spouse, or somewhere in between, this conversation highlights why COMPASS remains one of the most trusted resources in the Navy community.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- The origin story of COMPASS
How a spouse recognized the need for Navy-specific support and built a program that has served families for 25 years.
- What COMPASS actually is
A peer-led, spouse-to-spouse program offering Navy Life 101 — from benefits and PCS moves to deployments and communication.
- Why the peer model works
COMPASS creates a rank-free, judgment-free environment where spouses learn from lived experience and shared understanding.
- Confidence through knowledge
Participants learn practical skills like reading LES statements, understanding entitlements, planning PCS moves, and navigating deployments.
- Connection beyond Google
While information is online, COMPASS provides nuance, hands-on learning, and real human connection.
- Support during isolation and transition
COMPASS helps spouses build confidence, friendships, and support networks after PCS moves and during deployment seasons.
- Why seasoned spouses still benefit
Even experienced spouses gain new insights, updated policy information, and fresh PCS and deployment tips.
- Volunteer mentorship & giving back
How spouses can become COMPASS mentors and make a tangible impact supporting fellow Navy families.
- How the program evolved for modern Navy life
From curriculum updates to virtual sessions, COMPASS continues adapting to changing Navy policies and family needs.
- A powerful message for overwhelmed spouses
You are not alone. There is a legacy of spouses ready to support you.
