The InDependent Spouse Podcast with Jess Sands

Ahead of Remembrance Day, we are re-releasing one of the most poignant interviews ever recorded on The InDependent Spouse podcast. Host Jess Sands talks with the brilliant and inspirational founder, Nikki Scott, about the incredible journey that led her to create Scotty's Little Soldiers. Nikki shares the intensely personal and heartbreaking story of losing her husband, Lee Scott, who was killed in Afghanistan. She discusses the immediate aftermath, including the difficult decision of leaving the married quarter and the emotional weight of his repatriation. This conversation is a powerful exploration of grief, resilience, and the power of community, highlighting how Nikki transformed her pain into a mission to ensure bereaved British forces children can "smile again". We dive into the vital work of Scotty's Little Soldiers and how they support military children who have lost a parent, regardless of how they died. Key Takeaways & Discussion Points The Birth of Scotty's Little Soldiers: The idea was born on a family holiday nine months after Lee's death, when Nikki saw her 5-year-old son, Kai, smile and laugh again. This was her 'wake-up call' and the moment she realized she needed to help other children who had experienced the death of a parent who served. The Mission: Helping Them Smile: Scotty's Little Soldiers is dedicated to supporting all bereaved British forces children from the Armed Forces community. Support: An online bereavement service and resources to help families before they reach crisis points. Lee's Legacy: Nikki remembers Lee, who was killed at age 26, as the fun parent and "everybody's friend" . She believes he would be "100% behind" the charity. Resources and How to Connect Scotty's Little Soldiers Website: Find information, donate, fundraise, or get support - https://www.scottyslittlesoldiers.co.uk/  "Scotty's is something that we don't ever want to have to use, but to know that our children have that if they need it means so much."

Welcome to the final episode of Series 7! This week, I'm joined by Bekky, a Navy wife, mum of three, and a graduate from the Milspo Business Start-Up course. Bekky shares her incredible journey from feeling lost and lonely as a new military partner to building her own thriving business, The Crafty Starfish.  We discuss the unique challenges military spouses face, such as frequent moves, deployments, and the general chaos of service life, and how she overcame them to create a business that is uniquely her own.Join us to hear Bekky share her inspiring story of overcoming the loneliness many new military partners experience to build her amazing business, The Crafty Starfish.  Discover how she navigated these obstacles to create something truly special! Ready to start your own business? Are you a military spouse, partner or other-half with a brilliant idea, a hidden talent, or a burning desire for something of your own? Perhaps you've felt the loneliness of a new posting or the challenge of balancing your career with the demands of military life? Maybe you've put your dreams on hold, telling yourself there's "never a right time" to start? It's time to change that narrative. Our free Business Launch Accelerator course, funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust and the Ministry of Defence, is designed specifically for you. It's the course Jess wished she had when she started.  We will help you navigate the unique challenges of building a business around military life, from legal structures to managing deployments, to asking permissions, and sorting that mindset - giving you the best start to your business life! It's a real opportunity to connect with a community of like-minded people who understand exactly just what military and business life entails. It's your chance to do something for you, to build a career that moves with you, and to show your family how truly epic you are. Don't miss this chance to save your seat. The next cohort starts in September, after the summer chaos is over. Applications are open now until September 10th. All you have to do is take that first step, just like Bekky did. Find out more and apply at www.milspo.co.uk/course. We can't wait to welcome you!   Episode Highlights: The Struggle for Belonging: Bekky opens up about the isolation she felt as a military partner and her search for a community that understood her experiences beyond just the military. The Genesis of an Idea: Discover how a personal love for sewing and a desire for a flexible career led Bekky to start her business, making beautiful, high-quality, and unique clothes for children. Overcoming the Odds: Hear how Bekky navigated the complexities of launching a business while pregnant, during a global pandemic, and with her husband deployed. She shares how the Milspo business course provided the crucial support she needed to succeed. Progress Over Perfection: Bekky reveals how she shifted her mindset from striving for perfection to embracing progress, a key lesson that helped her get her business off the ground. Finding Your 'Why': Learn about the deeply personal reasons behind Bekky's entrepreneurial journey—creating something for herself, setting an example for her children, and proving that it's possible to build a career you love while navigating military life. Connect with Bekky's Business, The Crafty Starfish: https://craftystarfish.co.uk/

Welcome back to The InDependent Spouse Podcast! In this episode, your host Jess Sands dives into the inspirational world of Major Jo Vann – a true multi-hyphenate who redefines what it means to juggle military life, motherhood, and a thriving business. Jo is not only working full-time in the British Army with a serving husband and two children, but she also runs a stunning boutique hotel in Amesbury called "A Little Place." Jess was lucky enough to visit this beautiful Georgian property, which she describes as something out of a Jane Austen novel. In this conversation, Jo shares how her military training, sporting background (including playing netball for England!), and a passion for people has equipped her to build an amazing business and team. Key Takeaways from Jo: Build an Amazing Team: Jo emphasizes that her number one priority when starting her business was growing an incredible team, allowing her to minimise her day-to-day contribution because of the people running it. Lessons from Military and Sport: The teamwork aspect, learned through both her army career and sport, has been crucial. She highlights how collaborating with others brings in broader skills and makes you stronger. The Drive to Give Back: After her successful sporting career, Jo developed a passion for coaching, becoming the head coach of the UK Armed Forces netball team, driven by a desire to give back. The Motivation Behind "A Little Place": Her love for people and bringing them together, combined with a desire for stability during a challenging period of army life with children, led her to open the hotel. She also aims to offer a safe and comfortable escape for the military community near Salisbury Plain. The Power of the Reserves: Jo sheds light on how Armed Forces Reserves offer flexible commitment levels, complementary income, personal development, teamwork, and unique training opportunities for those balancing civilian careers or businesses. Embracing Bravery and Curiosity: Jo encourages listeners to test new ideas and not be afraid to try "brave things," even if they feel like too much on their plate. She reminds us that regret often comes from not taking opportunities. This episode is a must-listen if you're feeling overwhelmed but need a powerful dose of inspiration to show you what's possible when you embrace challenges and build an incredible support system.   Connect with Jo Vann and A Little Place: Website: a little place Instagram (A Little Place): https://www.instagram.com/alittleplace_uk/  LinkedIn (Jo Vann): You can find Jo on LinkedIn to learn more about her and the reserves - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-vann/  Connect with The InDependent Spouse Podcast: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milsponetwork/  Find a Milspo Directory: Showcase your military spouse-owned business! https://findamilspo.co.uk/   

Welcome back to The InDependent Spouse podcast! In this particularly exciting episode, Jess Sands sits down with the brilliant Felicity Mercer, wife to Johnny Mercer, who has navigated the unique challenges of armed forces life, the intense world of politics, and is now an award-winning business owner.  We cover it all, from meeting Johnny Mercer (MP and former Minister for State for Veterans Affairs) as children, reconnecting as adults when he was serving in Afghanistan, to supporting him through a whirlwind political career. Felicity shares candid insights into the realities of being a political wife – far from glamorous – including dealing with public scrutiny, death threats, and the toll it takes on family life.  She discusses the unexpected pivot from supporting her husband's public service to launching her own successful business, The Dress Barn, just six months ago. Discover how she's found pure joy in her new venture, applying years of experience to create a welcoming space for her clients, and even inspiring her own daughters to get involved. Felicity offers powerful advice for anyone in the military community looking to transition and start something new: "Don't overthink it. Just go for it!"  This episode is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and finding your own path amidst the extraordinary demands of military and political life. Key Takeaways: The Unseen Side of Public Life: Felicity offers a raw and honest look at the lack of glamour and the intense public hatred and threats that can come with being a political spouse. Turning Challenges into Opportunities: Despite the difficulties of military and political life, Felicity emphasizes the importance of laughter and finding humor in tough situations. Empowerment Through Entrepreneurship: Learn how Felicity channelled her experiences and a small investment into a thriving and joyful business that empowers other women. The Power of "Don't Overthink It": Felicity's core advice for military spouses considering a new venture is to overcome self-doubt, have a plan, and back yourself. Inspiring the Next Generation: Felicity shares how her business journey is influencing her daughters, teaching them about hard work, independence, and the joy of helping others. The Dress Barn: Felicity Mercer's award-winning business, located near the Devon/Cornwall border - https://dress-barn.co.uk/ Join the Course! Are you a military spouse looking to start your own business? Join The InDependent Spouse's Business Launch Accelerator course! This fully funded, 8-week online course covers everything you need to know about entrepreneurship as a military spouse or partner. It's available for any partner or spouse of serving regular or reservist armed forces personnel and is funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust and the Ministry of Defence.  Learn more and sign up at milspo.co.uk/course. The course starts in September, and applications are open NOW!

Join Jess Sands in this inspiring episode of The InDependent Spouse as she welcomes the incredible duo behind the award-winning podcast, Pad Wives Assemble – Sophs and Kirsha!    Tune in as they dive into the realities of modern military life, discussing everything from building a supportive tri-service community to challenging outdated stereotypes about military spouses. Sophs and Kirsha share their journey of creating Pad Wives Assemble, born from a desire to provide a fun, safe, and inclusive space for armed forces families to connect and feel heard, with a few giggles along the way. They open up about overcoming negative feedback, the power of positive messages from their listeners, and the daily ups and downs of military life. Discover the story behind their surprising UK Top Influencer Award win and why visibility for military families is so crucial in today's world. Plus, get ready to be inspired by their incredible charitable initiatives! Sophs and Kirsha reveal their ongoing efforts to support veterans' mental health through Combat Stress and tease their exciting "Rationed and Ready: The Pad Wife Trials" YouTube series – a three-day immersive military-style challenge created by veterans, all for a great cause.  This episode is a testament to the resilience, strength, and incredible community spirit of military spouses. Whether you're navigating deployments, solo parenting, or simply looking for relatable stories and a good laugh, Sophs and Kirsha remind us that we are all in this together.   Key Takeaways: Building Community: The importance of creating inclusive spaces for all military spouses, regardless of service or rank, to share experiences and find support. Challenging Stereotypes: How open and honest conversations can break down misconceptions about military spouses and partners. The Power of Connection: The profound impact of shared stories and a friendly voice in combating loneliness and isolation in military life. Resilience in Action: Inspiring examples of military spouses turning personal challenges into thriving platforms and charitable endeavors. Giving Back: The dedication of Pad Wives Assemble to supporting veterans' mental health and other community initiatives. About Pad Wives Assemble: Pad Wives Assemble is an award-winning podcast created by Sophs and co-hosted by Kirsha, focusing on the realities of military life with a fun, honest, and inclusive approach for tri-service families. They are passionate about building community, challenging stigmas, and supporting charitable causes related to the armed forces.   Connect with Pad Wives Assemble: www.padwivesemble.co.uk Events Mentioned: "Rationed and Ready: The Pad Wife Trials" - A six-part YouTube series coming soon, documenting a three-day military-style challenge for charity.. Pad Wives Assemble Gala - An event featuring live performers, casino tables, raffles, and veterans sharing their stories, with voting proceeds going to Combat Stress. Tickets available on their website. Battle of the Forces - A boxing charity night in collaboration with veterans, aiming to become its own charity entity. Nuts Challenge Run - Fundraising for a veteran to open a jacket potato van that will employ other veterans. About The InDependent Spouse Podcast: Hosted by Jess Sands, The InDependent Spouse is your go-to podcast for inspiration and support in modern military life. Jess shares real stories of resilience and success from military partners, aiming to create a sense of belonging and remind listeners they are not alone. Connect with The InDependent Spouse: www.milspo.co.uk/podcast Free Business Startup Course: Available at www.milspo.co.uk/course  

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The InDependent Spouse Podcast! In this episode, your host Jess Sands sits down with the phenomenal Ria Jackson, an RAF veteran, founder of "The V Word," and CEO of Inclusive Minds UK. Join us as Ria shares her extraordinary journey of self-discovery and resilience, and learn about her mission to champion neuro-inclusion.   Episode Highlights: A "Squiggly Career" in the RAF: Ria shares her 12-year journey in the military, starting as a mover and ultimately pivoting to become an avionic engineer on Typhoons. She discusses how her diverse experiences in the forces, including extensive travel, provided invaluable lessons and shaped her squiggly path. The Transition and Unexpected Challenges: Discover the personal reasons behind Ria's decision to leave the RAF at the 12-year mark, including finding her life partner and facing medical downgrades due to knee injuries. She bravely opens up about the struggles of finding a job while pregnant and how this led her unexpectedly into education. Unveiling Neurodivergence: Ria transparently shares her journey through mental health difficulties post-military and motherhood, which ultimately led to her diagnosis of ADHD and dyspraxia. This pivotal moment transformed her self-awareness into profound self-acceptance. The Birth of The V Word and Inclusive Minds UK: Learn how Ria's personal need for community and an outlet for expression led to the accidental creation of "The V Word," an online community for women veterans. She recounts the viral success of her blog post "The Odd One Out," which gained 1.5 million views, and how this platform, though initially an escapism, became her "saviour" and laid the groundwork for Inclusive Minds UK. The Power of Neuro-Inclusion: Ria passionately explains why neuro-inclusion matters to everyone, emphasizing the human need to belong and create spaces where everyone can bring their whole selves. She discusses the importance of meeting others with curiosity and kindness, fostering growth and understanding rather than conflict. The IM Hub: An Accessible Resource: Get an exclusive insight into Ria's new venture, "The IM Hub," a purpose-built platform designed to make learning about neuro-inclusion affordable and accessible for all – from parents and partners to managers and individuals who are "neuro-curious." She highlights the hub's unique shared model of influence, offering insights from professionals with lived, medical, and academic experience. Language, Identity, and Growth: Ria shares powerful anecdotes about the evolving landscape of language around neurodiversity and the importance of owning mistakes and continuously learning. She emphasizes that identity is personal and that true support comes from understanding the individual, not just their diagnosis. About Ria Jackson: Ria Jackson is an RAF veteran, the visionary founder of 'The V Word' (a women veterans online community), and the CEO of Inclusive Minds UK. Her work with Inclusive Minds UK is dedicated to normalising neuro-inclusion, creating safe and supportive environments where everyone can thrive. Connect with Ria & Inclusive Minds UK: www.inclusivemindsuk.com About The InDependent Spouse Podcast: The InDependent Spouse podcast, hosted by Jess Sands, is your essential guide to navigating modern military life. It's a place for inspiration and support, sharing real stories of resilience and success from the armed forces family to remind you that you're not alone. What started as a passion project in 2018 has grown into a thriving business network, helping military spouses build their own businesses and find success that thrives in military life.    Connect with The InDependent Spouse: www.milspo.co.uk/podcast Explore free tools, resources, and upcoming courses like the business startup course in September!  

In this inspiring episode, host Jess Sands welcomes Lulu from the Marama Alliance, a vibrant community dedicated to supporting Fijian women and their families in the UK armed forces. Lulu shares her personal journey of moving from Fiji to the UK as a military spouse, facing challenges like adapting to a new climate and navigating unfamiliar systems like working in the UK, opening bank accounts, and that pesky married quarter heating.  This episode highlights the incredible resilience and unity of the Fijian military community and the vital role Marama Alliance plays in helping these families thrive while preserving their rich cultural heritage. Key Takeaways: The Power of Community: Discover how the Fijian community in the UK armed forces provides essential support, from helping new arrivals with practical needs like setting up a home to celebrating cultural events and offering emotional connection. Cultural Preservation & Integration: Learn about Marama Alliance's efforts to keep Fijian culture alive through initiatives like Fijian Language Week and community gatherings, while also encouraging integration into the wider UK society. Navigating the Unknown: Lulu candidly discusses the unique challenges faced by Commonwealth military spouses, particularly concerning immigration status, housing, and resettlement when leaving the military, emphasizing the importance of early preparation. The Importance of Expanding Your Network: Lulu encourages military spouses to connect beyond their immediate military or cultural communities to expand their networks, find job opportunities, and gain diverse perspectives. Advice for New Spouses: Lulu shares invaluable advice for new military spouses moving to a new country: keep an open mind, be flexible, and don't hesitate to ask questions – there are no silly questions. About the Guest: Lulu is a driving force behind the Marama Alliance, a non-profit community organization dedicated to supporting Fijian women and their families in the UK. The alliance provides crucial information, creates community, and helps members navigate the complexities of military life and integration in a new country. They are working towards establishing themselves as a charity to further expand their vital programs and initiatives.   Connect with Marama Alliance: https://www.maramaalliance.com/ About The InDependent Spouse Podcast: The InDependent Spouse podcast, hosted by Jess Sands, is your essential guide to navigating modern military life. Jess shares inspirational stories of resilience and success from military partners, offering support and community for those juggling family, business, and finding their place in the military world.   Connect with The InDependent Spouse: https://milspo.co.uk/podcast  Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to The InDependent Spouse Podcast for more inspiring stories and support!

Welcome to The InDependent Spouse podcast, your go-to place for inspiration and support in navigating modern military life. In this episode, host Jess Sands sits down with the incredible Camilla Howard: an RAF veteran, an Army spouse, a forces child, and a dedicated advocate for the military spouse community. After 12 years in the RAF, Camilla transitioned to a civilian career with Compass Group UK and Ireland. She details how her passion for supporting military families led her to co-chair Compass Group's Armed Forces network, a role that allows her to champion initiatives for spouses and veterans. Listen along to discover: Camilla's personal anecdotes about the "interesting balance" of dual-serving military careers and raising a child amidst frequent moves. How Compass Group actively supports military spouses through their innovative yet simple spouses policy, including endeavoring to redeploy spouses on posting, celebrating an annual Spouses Day during Armed Forces Week, and offering an extra day of leave for deployment collection or drop-off. The importance of the Armed Forces network's advocacy roundtables, which bring together companies to share best practices and encourage more organizations to genuinely support the military community. Camilla's invaluable advice for military spouses navigating career transitions: "release the pressure valve on yourself", understand your "red line areas", and leverage your network. Why military spouses possess unique and highly beneficial skill sets that are an asset to any company. Camilla emphasizes that the military community is not about "pity parties", but about highlighting the incredible talent and resilience within it.  If you're a corporate interested in starting your own Armed Forces network or learning more about Compass Group's initiatives, you can reach out via AFC@compass-group.co.uk Discover More from The InDependent Spouse Podcast: https://milspo.co.uk/podcast/    Inspired by Camilla's journey and feeling that spark to build something for yourself? We get it. At Milspo, we're more than just a community; we're a supportive hub where military spouses, partners, and other-halves transform challenges into incredible business opportunities. You're not alone in navigating postings, deployments, or the unique rhythm of military life – we're right there with you. If you're ready to move from feeling overwhelmed to empowered, and from isolated to connected, our website is your next step. It's the go-to place for inspiration, practical strategies, and genuine connections with others who truly understand. Stop feeling lost and start building a sustainable business that thrives, not just survives your modern military life. www.milspo.co.uk

Join Jess Sands in this inspiring episode of The InDependent Spouse Podcast as she chats with the incredible Alex Rickerby. Alex, a career coach for the Forces Employment Charity and a private coach in the tech sector, shares her remarkable story of balancing a high-powered career with the unique demands of military life, motherhood, and unexpected challenges.   In this episode, you'll hear about: A Powerhouse Career Before Military Life: Discover Alex's impressive professional background, including her years at The Telegraph and her impactful role as a Senior Industry Head at Google, managing key client relationships with central government, publishing, and top non-profit charities. The Unexpected Turn: Alex candidly discusses the "easiest, hardest decision" she made to step away from her corporate career at Google after the challenging birth and illness of her first child, highlighting the profound impact it had on her life and choices. Building a Business on the Move: Learn how Alex strategically utilised "20% time" at Google to explore coaching and how her own transformative experience with a coach in her twenties inspired her path. She also shares how living overseas, particularly in Canada, provided the unique opportunity and "brain space" to invest in her coaching qualification and lay the foundations for her business. The Unexpected Realities of Overseas Life: Alex opens up about the immense community support received during her husband's sudden and serious illness while they were posted in Canada, and the invaluable safety net the armed forces community provides when life takes unforeseen turns. The Unflappable Spirit of Military Spouses: Alex passionately highlights the incredible value, capacity, and "unflappability" that military spouses possess, skills often created through navigating frequent moves, deployments, and the general unpredictability of armed forces life. She emphasizes the importance of using available resources and networks within the military spouse community Essential Support for Military Families: Alex details her work as a career coach for the Forces Employment Charity, providing lifelong support for veterans, families, and serving personnel. She also discusses her volunteer coaching role with Recruit for Spouses, underscoring the abundance of free and high-quality support available to military spouses for career development and personal growth. Key Takeaways: Military life, while presenting unique challenges, also builds incredible skills, adaptability, and a strong sense of community Use the resources available to military spouses, such as career coaching and business support programs offered by charities like the Forces Employment Charity and Recruit for Spouses. Connect with Alex: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexrickerby/    Discover More from The InDependent Spouse Podcast: https://milspo.co.uk/podcast/    If you're a military spouse with a business idea, or looking to start your own, join the MILSPO eight-week online business startup course! Thanks to the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, your space is funded. Over 60 military spouses and partners have already been helped to start their businesses!   Head to https://milspo.co.uk/course/ to register for updates and save your seat. 

This week on The InDependent Spouse, host Jess Sands welcomes the inspiring Dr. Kathrine McAleese for a deeply insightful conversation about navigating the demands of modern military life while striving for personal and professional fulfillment. This episode is a must-listen for any military spouse seeking to find success on their own terms and reclaim their joy amidst the beautiful chaos of armed forces life. Dr. Kathrine McAleese, a psychotherapist and sociologist by background, specializes in helping high-achievers find a "deliciously satisfying life" that prioritises what's actually important, not just what's expected. She shares her unique perspective on finding your purpose, building resilience, and escaping the societal pressure to "have it all" – especially important for military spouses who often have to juggle all of the things. In this episode, you'll discover: The unique challenges of military spouse life: Jess and Kathrine discuss the feeling of being "lost and lonely" when first becoming a military partner and the constant search for belonging and connection within the community. They touch on the "1950s housewife" stereotype and the uncertainty that military life can bring, often leading spouses to feel they have to fit a particular role. Redefining Success: Learn why the conventional idea of "having it all" can be counterproductive and how to identify what "enough" truly means for you. Kathrine challenges the insatiable drive of modern society and offers a refreshing perspective on finding satisfaction.  Practical Strategies for Overwhelm: Feeling lost in the wilderness of chaos? Dr. Kathrine shares actionable steps to manage overwhelm, including the power of writing things down and embracing the "minimum viable action" – making progress through tiny, seemingly insignificant steps.  Finding Your Independent Identity: The conversation delves into the importance of having something that is "yours" – a business, a hobby, or a passion project – that is independent of military life. This is crucial for maintaining a sense of place and recognising your own skills and contributions.  The Power of Showing Up: Both Jess and Kathrine emphasise that military spouses "were not put here to make up the numbers" and deserve to show the world how epic they are. They explore the concept of "unapologetically living your best life" and how owning your unique light can inspire others in the military community. Supporting the Whole System: Kathrine shares her powerful insight from past research: when military families are taken care of and thriving, it positively impacts serving personnel and can even contribute to better outcomes and retention. Connect with Dr. Kathrine McAleese: Website: https://www.drkathrine.com/ Instagram: @drkathrine  Her Book: Enough. https://www.drkathrine.com/enough Don't forget to share this episode with a fellow military spouse who could use a dose of inspiration, leave us a review, and subscribe so you don't miss next week's episode!

Welcome back to The InDependent Spouse, and get ready for authentic stories and amazing inspiration from the military family! In this candid chat, Jess sits down with the incredible Lady Caitlin Knighton, wife of the Chief of the Air Staff and a brilliant family lawyer. If you've ever felt the squeeze of balancing military life with family and work, this episode is for you.  Lady Knighton shares her journey of "muddling through" the rollercoaster of armed forces life, offering invaluable tips for navigating the unpredictability and finding your footing, even when you don't know where you'll be living next! We dive into: How she manages a high-powered career as a partner in a law firm alongside military demands and raising two daughters The evolution of her role as the Chief of the Air Staff's wife – it's not what you might expect! The incredible support of the military family, especially during tough times, like her recent cancer diagnosis Why "good is good enough" when balancing everything, and the importance of leaning on your community Lady Knighton's story is a powerful reminder that there's no single "right way" to do military life. It's about finding your own path, accepting help, and embracing both the challenges and the unique opportunities this life throws at you. Love this episode? Make sure you subscribe to The InDependent Spouse podcast and leave us a review! Your support helps us share more incredible stories from the armed forces family.   Host Jess Sands chats with incredible military spouses achieving amazing things, alongside building the Milspo® Community. This network of over 1,450 spouses, partners, and "other halves" is dedicated to helping military families build epic businesses that thrive, not just survive modern military life. Ready to take action? Join the Milspo® Community: Connect with like-minded individuals and find support for your entrepreneurial journey. https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Get Inspired by Jess' Book: Read "Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world." https://amzn.eu/d/bt1odyI Level Up with Milspo Membership: Join the Inner Circle, the premier business incubator for military spouses. link: https://milspo.co.uk/inner-circle/ Milspo®: Supporting Military Families Milspo® is a network built by military spouses, for military spouses. We understand the unique challenges faced by those living a military life. Our resources and programmes are designed to empower spouses to thrive, both personally and professionally. Military Spouse Podcast, Military Spouse Business, Military Family Support, Milspo Community, Military Spouse Entrepreneurship, The InDependent Spouse Supporting the Milspo Network CIC The Milspo Network CIC is a volunteer-run social enterprise dedicated to supporting the entrepreneurial endeavours of the entire UK military spouse community. We rely on the goodwill of our members and volunteers to continue our mission. Looking to make a difference? Spread the Word: Share the Milspo Network with other military spouses! Support Us: We are seeking sponsorship or financial help to ensure we can continue providing resources and support in 2024 and beyond https://milspo.co.uk/milspomovement/ Together, we can create a rising tide that lifts all boats in the military spouse community!

Discover how diplomatic spouse Nilma Dole-Williams balances her role as an ambassador's wife with her passion for cricket and women's empowerment. Perfect for military spouses, armed forces wives, and entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses while navigating a mobile lifestyle. Empowering Military Spouses: The InDependent Spouse Podcast Looking for inspiration and support as a military spouse? The InDependent Spouse podcast is your one-stop shop for stories, tips, and a thriving community! Host Jess Sands chats with incredible military spouses achieving amazing things, alongside building the Milspo® Community. This network of over 1,400 spouses, partners, and "other halves" is dedicated to helping military families build epic businesses that thrive, not just survive modern military life. Ready to take action? Join the Milspo® Community: Connect with like-minded individuals and find support for your entrepreneurial journey. https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Get Inspired by Jess' Book: Read "Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world." https://amzn.eu/d/bt1odyI Level Up with Milspo Membership: Join the Inner Circle, the premier business incubator for military spouses. (link: https://milspo.co.uk/milspo-inner-circle-waiting-list/) Milspo®: Supporting Military Families Milspo® is a network built by military spouses, for military spouses. We understand the unique challenges faced by those living a military life. Our resources and programmes are designed to empower spouses to thrive, both personally and professionally. Military Spouse Podcast, Military Spouse Business, Military Family Support, Milspo Community, Military Spouse Entrepreneurship, The InDependent Spouse Supporting the Milspo Network CIC The Milspo Network CIC is a volunteer-run social enterprise dedicated to supporting the entrepreneurial endeavours of the entire UK military spouse community. We rely on the goodwill of our members and volunteers to continue our mission. Looking to make a difference? Spread the Word: Share the Milspo Network with other military spouses! Support Us: We are seeking sponsorship or financial help to ensure we can continue providing resources and support in 2024 and beyond https://milspo.co.uk/milspomovement/ Together, we can create a rising tide that lifts all boats in the military spouse community!

Author Amanda Prowse shares her journey from military life to home ownership, reflecting on the nostalgia and challenges faced during her husband's deployments. After starting her writing career at 40, she uses her experiences to inspire her books, including her newest book, "Swimming to Lundy," which explores grief and community following her brother's death. This is such a brilliant episode and I am so proud to be able to share Amandas story and her wonderful ideas for any aspiring Milspo author. Enjoy this one! It's fab! https://www.amandaprowse.com  https://www.instagram.com/mrsamandaprowse/   Empowering Military Spouses: The InDependent Spouse Podcast Looking for inspiration and support as a military spouse? The InDependent Spouse podcast is your one-stop shop for stories, tips, and a thriving community! Host Jess Sands chats with incredible military spouses achieving amazing things, alongside building the Milspo® Community. This network of over 1,400 spouses, partners, and "other halves" is dedicated to helping military families build epic businesses that thrive, not just survive modern military life. Ready to take action? Join the Milspo® Community: Connect with like-minded individuals and find support for your entrepreneurial journey. https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Get Inspired by Jess' Book: Read "Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world." https://amzn.eu/d/bt1odyI Level Up with Milspo Membership: Join the Inner Circle, the premier business incubator for military spouses. (link: https://milspo.co.uk/milspo-inner-circle-waiting-list/) Milspo®: Supporting Military Families Milspo® is a network built by military spouses, for military spouses. We understand the unique challenges faced by those living a military life. Our resources and programmes are designed to empower spouses to thrive, both personally and professionally. Military Spouse Podcast, Military Spouse Business, Military Family Support, Milspo Community, Military Spouse Entrepreneurship, The InDependent Spouse Supporting the Milspo Network CIC The Milspo Network CIC is a volunteer-run social enterprise dedicated to supporting the entrepreneurial endeavours of the entire UK military spouse community. We rely on the goodwill of our members and volunteers to continue our mission. Looking to make a difference? Spread the Word: Share the Milspo Network with other military spouses! Support Us: We are seeking sponsorship or financial help to ensure we can continue providing resources and support in 2024 and beyond https://milspo.co.uk/milspomovement/ Together, we can create a rising tide that lifts all boats in the military spouse community!

https://www.scottishveteranscommissioner.org Jess Sands hosts a podcast on business and military life, aiming to inspire military spouses to become entrepreneurs. In this episode, she interviews Susie, the Scottish Veterans Commissioner, who emphasises support for women veterans and bereaved families. The discussion highlights the gap between policymakers and the military community, stressing the importance of speaking up and providing feedback for improving support. Scotland demonstrates political will towards the armed forces, with Jess and Susie hopeful for positive changes and continued support.   Empowering Military Spouses: The InDependent Spouse Podcast Looking for inspiration and support as a military spouse? The InDependent Spouse podcast is your one-stop shop for stories, tips, and a thriving community! Host Jess Sands chats with incredible military spouses achieving amazing things, alongside building the Milspo® Community. This network of over 1,400 spouses, partners, and "other halves" is dedicated to helping military families build epic businesses that thrive, not just survive modern military life. Ready to take action? Join the Milspo® Community: Connect with like-minded individuals and find support for your entrepreneurial journey. https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Get Inspired by Jess' Book: Read "Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world." https://amzn.eu/d/bt1odyI Level Up with Milspo Membership: Join the Inner Circle, the premier business incubator for military spouses. (link: https://milspo.co.uk/milspo-inner-circle-waiting-list/) Milspo®: Supporting Military Families Milspo® is a network built by military spouses, for military spouses. We understand the unique challenges faced by those living a military life. Our resources and programmes are designed to empower spouses to thrive, both personally and professionally. Military Spouse Podcast, Military Spouse Business, Military Family Support, Milspo Community, Military Spouse Entrepreneurship, The InDependent Spouse Supporting the Milspo Network CIC The Milspo Network CIC is a volunteer-run social enterprise dedicated to supporting the entrepreneurial endeavours of the entire UK military spouse community. We rely on the goodwill of our members and volunteers to continue our mission. Looking to make a difference? Spread the Word: Share the Milspo Network with other military spouses! Support Us: We are seeking sponsorship or financial help to ensure we can continue providing resources and support in 2024 and beyond https://milspo.co.uk/milspomovement/ Together, we can create a rising tide that lifts all boats in the military spouse community!

Handleys Stitch - https://www.handleysstitch.co.uk  Mia Harrington, a former Air Force Officer and current RAF wife, is the founder of Handly Stitched Soft Furnishings. Mia's journey from the military to creating curtains, blinds, lampshades, and cushion covers is inspiring, and a must-listen if you're in year one or have an idea for your business. Mia's story exemplifies the potential for post-military career success in entrepreneurship. Thanks to Mia for taking the time to share your story - Jess x   Get your FREE business start-up guide HERE - https://milspo.co.uk/start-your-dream-business-free-download/    The InDependent Spouse podcast was created to give a voice to those who are most often hidden in the shadows of their brave, serving military partner and who are achieving amazing things. Since 2018, Jess Sands has been sharing these stories, alongside building the Milspo® Community – a network of over 1,400 military spouses, partners and other halves who are building epic businesses that THRIVE, not just survive in a modern military world. If you're looking for further inspiration why not join our community and connect with others – https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Read Jess' latest Book – Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world – https://amzn.eu/d/3ASq6VT Or, join our Milspo Membership, the Inner Circle. The best business incubator to help build your business or side hustle - https://milspo.co.uk/milspo-inner-circle-waiting-list/   Milspo®, The InDependent Spouse®, findamilspo and The Milspo Inner Circle are all part of the Milspo Network CIC - a volunteer organisation and social enterprise built by the serving spouses, partners and other halves of ALL UK military personnel to support the community's entrepreneurial endeavours. We get it because we live it every day, and we want everyone to find inspiration, support and a community that helps make military life a little bit better - a rising tide lifts all boats. Founded in 2018, the Milspo Network CIC has been built on the goodwill of its members and the support of its volunteers. After a series of failed funding bids and a struggle to change the narrative of why this community needs that extra bit of support, we are now looking for sponsorship or financial help so that Milspo can continue to provide into 2024. Please do spread the word or connect us with those who would like to make a difference and directly support the military family, a community at the heart of the UK Armed Forces and all it does.

Jess Sands, a business owner and military spouse, hosts the InDependent Spouse Podcast, offering support to business-owning military spouses. In a recent episode, she interviewed Helen Williamson, a financial planner and ex-RAF veteran, emphasising the importance of financial planning for military spouses and self-employed individuals. Helen shares her journey of retraining as a financial planner after leaving the Air Force and advocates for more awareness of parental leave policies and flexibility in the military. The episode highlights the impact of military background on career choices and encourages women to take control of their finances. You can find Helen right here - https://partnership.sjp.co.uk/partner/helenwilliamson  The InDependent Spouse podcast was created to give a voice to those who are most often hidden in the shadows of their brave, serving military partner and who are achieving amazing things. Since 2018, Jess Sands has been sharing these stories, alongside building the Milspo® Community – a network of over 1,400 military spouses, partners and other halves who are building epic businesses that THRIVE, not just survive in a modern military world. If you're looking for further inspiration why not join our community and connect with others – https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Read Jess' latest Book – Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world – https://amzn.eu/d/3ASq6VT Or, join our Milspo Membership, the Inner Circle. The best business incubator to help build your business or side hustle - https://milspo.co.uk/milspo-inner-circle-waiting-list/   Milspo®, The InDependent Spouse®, findamilspo and The Milspo Inner Circle are all part of the Milspo Network CIC - a volunteer organisation and social enterprise built by the serving spouses, partners and other halves of ALL UK military personnel to support the community's entrepreneurial endeavours. We get it because we live it every day, and we want everyone to find inspiration, support and a community that helps make military life a little bit better - a rising tide lifts all boats. Founded in 2018, the Milspo Network CIC has been built on the goodwill of its members and the support of its volunteers. After a series of failed funding bids and a struggle to change the narrative of why this community needs that extra bit of support, we are now looking for sponsorship or financial help so that Milspo can continue to provide into 2024. Please do spread the word or connect us with those who would like to make a difference and directly support the military family, a community at the heart of the UK Armed Forces and all it does.

Lizzie York is an RAF wife and business owner who runs Cyclical Soul, an online yoga platform promoting women's well-being. Cyclical Soul focuses on cyclical living and aligning with your hormonal cycle to enhance your overall health and self-care, and this episode is chock full of handy tips to achieve that, even if you feel you have limited time due to the juggle of military life. Lizzie shares her journey from personal struggles to a successful business rooted in self-care and serves as an inspiration for military spouses facing similar challenges.  Listen along to why importance of self-care, positivity, and community support can help you with navigating military life. https://www.cyclicalsoul.com   The InDependent Spouse podcast was created to give a voice to those who are most often hidden in the shadows of their brave, serving military partner and who are achieving amazing things. Since 2018, Jess Sands has been sharing these stories, alongside building the Milspo® Community – a network of over 1,400 military spouses, partners and other halves who are building epic businesses that THRIVE, not just survive in a modern military world. If you're looking for further inspiration why not join our community and connect with others – https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Read Jess' latest Book – Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world – https://amzn.eu/d/3ASq6VT Or, join our Milspo Membership, the Inner Circle. The best business incubator to help build your business or side hustle - https://milspo.co.uk/milspo-inner-circle-waiting-list/   Milspo®, The InDependent Spouse®, findamilspo and The Milspo Inner Circle are all part of the Milspo Network CIC - a volunteer organisation and social enterprise built by the serving spouses, partners and other halves of ALL UK military personnel to support the community's entrepreneurial endeavours. We get it because we live it every day, and we want everyone to find inspiration, support and a community that helps make military life a little bit better - a rising tide lifts all boats. Founded in 2018, the Milspo Network CIC has been built on the goodwill of its members and the support of its volunteers. After a series of failed funding bids and a struggle to change the narrative of why this community needs that extra bit of support, we are now looking for sponsorship or financial help so that Milspo can continue to provide into 2024. Please do spread the word or connect us with those who would like to make a difference and directly support the military family, a community at the heart of the UK Armed Forces and all it does.

I am Jess Sands, and this podcast is where all things business and armed forces life combine to inspire you in your modern military life. Welcome to the InDependent Spouse Podcast. Episode two of series six features Emily, a sustainable tourism consultant, discussing ways to make travel more eco-friendly. Emily is also the sustainability lead for Forces Wives Challenge and advocates for policymakers to support military spouses' careers and focus on sustainability. https://www.justtourism.co.uk The InDependent Spouse podcast was created to give a voice to those who are most often hidden in the shadows of their brave, serving military partner and who are achieving amazing things. Since 2018, Jess Sands has been sharing these stories, alongside building the Milspo® Community – a network of over 1,400 military spouses, partners and other halves who are building epic businesses that THRIVE, not just survive in a modern military world. If you're looking for further inspiration why not join our community and connect with others – https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Read Jess' latest Book – Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world – https://amzn.eu/d/3ASq6VT Or, join our Milspo Membership, the Inner Circle. The best business incubator to help build your business or side hustle - https://milspo.co.uk/milspo-inner-circle-waiting-list/   Milspo®, The InDependent Spouse®, findamilspo and The Milspo Inner Circle are all part of the Milspo Network CIC - a volunteer organisation and social enterprise built by the serving spouses, partners and other halves of ALL UK military personnel to support the community's entrepreneurial endeavours. We get it because we live it every day, and we want everyone to find inspiration, support and a community that helps make military life a little bit better - a rising tide lifts all boats. ​ Founded in 2018, the Milspo Network CIC has been built on the goodwill of its members and the support of its volunteers. After a series of failed funding bids and a struggle to change the narrative of why this community needs that extra bit of support, we are now looking for sponsorship or financial help so that Milspo can continue to provide into 2024. ​ Please do spread the word or connect us with those who would like to make a difference and directly support the military family, a community at the heart of the UK Armed Forces and all it does.

I am Jess Sands, and this podcast is where all things business and armed forces life combine to inspire you in your modern military life. Welcome to the InDependent Spouse Podcast. Susan Bonner, a naval veteran and former military spouse, is a successful business owner of the British Craft House. Susan shares her own journey of starting her business and emphasises the importance of community, empowerment, and networking for small business owners.  She also highlights the value of free resources and social media platforms for visibility and advertising.  The British Craft House is hugely successful. Last year, it celebrated the milestone of turning over £ 1 million in income for its users.  She overcame public speaking fears, won awards, and met the Prime Minister while supporting small businesses and artisans through her platforms. It was such a fab interview, and thank you to Susan again for sharing her inspirational story. I took so much from it, and I know that you will, too. Don't forget to join us for MilspoMay, and of course, join the 2024 Milspo Small Business Bootcamp. It's going to be the most amazing week and it's really going to help you build an epic business or side hustle in the same way that Susan has done in the same way that we can all do.   The InDependent Spouse podcast was created to give a voice to those who are most often hidden in the shadows of their brave, serving military partner and who are achieving amazing things. Since 2018, Jess Sands has been sharing these stories, alongside building the Milspo® Community – a network of over 1,400 military spouses, partners and other halves who are building epic businesses that THRIVE, not just survive in a modern military world. If you're looking for further inspiration why not join our community and connect with others – https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Read Jess' latest Book – Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world – https://amzn.eu/d/3ASq6VT Or, join our Milspo Membership, the Inner Circle. The best business incubator to help build your business or side hustle - https://milspo.co.uk/milspo-inner-circle-waiting-list/   Milspo®, The InDependent Spouse®, findamilspo and The Milspo Inner Circle are all part of the Milspo Network CIC - a volunteer organisation and social enterprise built by the serving spouses, partners and other halves of ALL UK military personnel to support the community's entrepreneurial endeavours. We get it because we live it every day, and we want everyone to find inspiration, support and a community that helps make military life a little bit better - a rising tide lifts all boats. ​ Founded in 2018, the Milspo Network CIC has been built on the goodwill of its members and the support of its volunteers. After a series of failed funding bids and a struggle to change the narrative of why this community needs that extra bit of support, we are now looking for sponsorship or financial help so that Milspo can continue to provide into 2024. ​ Please do spread the word or connect us with those who would like to make a difference and directly support the military family, a community at the heart of the UK Armed Forces and all it does.  

I am Jess Sands, and this podcast is where all things business and armed forces life combine to inspire you in your modern military life. I'm a business owner, military wife, a new mum living in my Magnolia married quarter, running two successful businesses and creating the most impactful work of my life. But it wasn't always like this. When I first started my business, I was struggling to get started and wrestling with how to achieve my dream of becoming a successful entrepreneur. I was desperately seeking inspiration and a network of people who just understood how it really feels to be a military spouse in business. Fast forward today, I am not only growing my business year after year, but also teaching others how to do it too, all whilst being surrounded by inspirational mill space. I'm here to help business owning military spouses, partners, and other halves just like you go from overwhelmed, isolated, and uninspired dependence into confident focused entrepreneurs, ones who are building sustainable businesses that not only survive, but thrive in this modern military world. I'll help you build a sustainable business or side hustle that also creates an impact, changes your life, and gives you all of the freedom to become what you were born to be. Welcome to the Independent Spouse Podcast. Oh my goodness. Hello, it's me. I hope you're keeping well. It has been a long time since I did a podcast episode, but happily, the podcast series is coming back. It is heading your way soon, and I am looking for some new guests. So if you are a Milspo that's a military spouse, partner, or other half running your own business, creating an amazing project, doing something completely epic that you think others should hear of, then just get in touch. Email me at hello@milspo.co.uk and I'll get back to you. This next series is going to be brilliant. I've already got a few guests lined up. They are so inspirational and so creative and they really are showcasing how brilliant life can be as a military partner. We all know it's really tough. We probably all know that it's getting a little bit worse, and we know that the support's not out there where it should be. So that's why this podcast exists. It's to show that military life isn't always doom and gloom. There are positives. You just need to go out and find them. So if you think that's you, if you have an inspirational story or want to share something completely wonderful, please do think about it. Don't be frightened. You have a valid story that will make a difference in other people's lives. So come and share it. It's a great platform. It's had almost 20,000 downloads, so it's a brilliant and cost-effective way of sharing your wonderful news. Don't be worried about it. We would love to hear from you. In the meantime, I'll be over in the Milspo group that's on Facebook. It's our close group full of military spouses, partners, and other house running their own businesses. We get together to collaborate. We network. We just help each other build amazing businesses because that is what it's all about. It just means that we lift everybody up just to have something that's completely yours that you can take with you no matter where military life takes you. So come and join us. It'll really help you build your business or your side hustle, or your projects or whatever you're up to. We are a lovely, friendly bunch who can't wait to see you succeed and help you celebrate. So there it is. My little challenge to you. If you want to be on the podcast, get in touch with me now. Head over to the Milspo Facebook group and join us and generally just keep going. Military life is tough, but we can do it, especially with a little bit of help and support. I will see you next time for a new episode of The Independent Spouse Podcast.   The InDependent Spouse podcast was created to give a voice to those who are most often hidden in the shadows of their brave, serving military partner and who are achieving amazing things. Since 2018, Jess Sands has been sharing these stories, alongside building the Milspo® Community – a network of over 1,400 military spouses, partners and other halves who are building epic businesses that THRIVE, not just survive in a modern military world. If you're looking for further inspiration why not join our community and connect with others – https://www.facebook.com/groups/MILSPO Read Jess' latest Book – Building Business Beyond the Magnolia Box: Inspiration for entrepreneurs living in a modern military world – https://amzn.eu/d/3ASq6VT Or, join our Milspo Membership, the Inner Circle. The best business incubator to help build your business or side hustle - https://milspo.co.uk/milspo-inner-circle-waiting-list/   Milspo®, The InDependent Spouse®, findamilspo and The Milspo Inner Circle are all part of the Milspo Network CIC - a volunteer organisation and social enterprise built by the serving spouses, partners and other halves of ALL UK military personnel to support the community's entrepreneurial endeavours. We get it because we live it every day, and we want everyone to find inspiration, support and a community that helps make military life a little bit better - a rising tide lifts all boats. ​ Founded in 2018, the Milspo Network CIC has been built on the goodwill of its members and the support of its volunteers. After a series of failed funding bids and a struggle to change the narrative of why this community needs that extra bit of support, we are now looking for sponsorship or financial help so that Milspo can continue to provide into 2024. ​ Please do spread the word or connect us with those who would like to make a difference and directly support the military family, a community at the heart of the UK Armed Forces and all it does.