Épisodes

  • 070 : Amanda Prowse - International Bestselling Author
    Sep 4 2024

    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/

    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

    - Get your FREE business start-up guide HERE - https://milspo.co.uk/start-your-dream-business-free-download/

    - If you dream of starting your own business, but don’t know how to get beyond the idea stage, then apply to join Milspo’s ‘Launch Accelerator’ business start-up course.

    Thanks to incredible support from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, this course is FREE and will coach you through starting and building a robust business that’s designed to survive multiple house moves and all that armed forces life throws at you. The first course begins in the Autumn of 2024 and we’d love you to join us: www.milspo.co.uk/course.

    - 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.

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    40 min
  • 069 : Jess Sands - Building a Business Around the Juggle of Armed Forces Family Life
    Jul 3 2024

    Emma Gray hosts this very special episode blending business and military life, sharing Jess' journey as a business owner, military spouse, and new mum.

    Jess Sands founded the Milspo Network CIC in 2018 to support military spouses in business, offering networking, training, and community - but, it's been far from a smooth ride.

    Get to know Jess and why Milspo exists by listening to this unique episode of The InDependent Spouse podcast.

    Emma Gray is a widow, mother and solicitor (non-practicing), now helping others as an adulting coach, trainee counsellor and grief expert. Find her here https://www.rainbowhunting.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

    - Get your FREE business start-up guide HERE - https://milspo.co.uk/start-your-dream-business-free-download/

    - If you dream of starting your own business, but don’t know how to get beyond the idea stage, then apply to join Milspo’s ‘Launch Accelerator’ business start-up course.

    Thanks to incredible support from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, this course is FREE and will coach you through starting and building a robust business that’s designed to survive multiple house moves and all that armed forces life throws at you. The first course begins in the Autumn of 2024 and we’d love you to join us: www.milspo.co.uk/course.

    - 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.

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    53 min
  • 068 : Scottish Veterans Commissioner, Lieutenant Commander (retired) Susie Hamilton.
    Jun 26 2024
    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. 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 - Get your FREE business start-up guide HERE - https://milspo.co.uk/start-your-dream-business-free-download/ - If you dream of starting your own business, but don’t know how to get beyond the idea stage, then apply to join Milspo’s ‘Launch Accelerator’ business start-up course. Thanks to incredible support from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, this course is FREE and will coach you through starting and building a robust business that’s designed to survive multiple house moves and all that armed forces life throws at you. The first course begins in the Autumn of 2024 and we’d love you to join us: www.milspo.co.uk/course. - 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.
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    34 min
  • 067 : Mia Harrington - Founder Handleys Stitch
    May 29 2024

    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.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    39 min
  • 066: Helen Willamson - Financial Planner, Veteran & Milspo
    May 22 2024

    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.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    34 min
  • 065: Lizzie York - Founder - Cyclical Soul
    May 15 2024

    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.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    55 min
  • 064: Emily Bailey - Founder - Just Tourism
    May 8 2024

    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.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    34 min
  • 063: Susan Bonnar - Founder - The British Craft House
    May 1 2024
    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.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    57 min