The Milspo Life Blog
Spousal Operational Control SOC
Happy April Fools' Day! As much as we’d love to see the brilliance of the Spousal Operational Control SOC we're not sure they'd ever forgive us. But, we do know that just as we are very proud of the very important work of the Armed Forces, they are just as proud of us, their spouses and partners....but we could do with some help. The careers of the partners of serving personnel (we like to call ourselves Milspo's = MILitary Spouses, Partners and Other-halves) are often hidden behind the impressive work of our serving partners. We want to change this... [...]
Milspo Live 2026
What a day we had at our Amazon Milspo Live conference 2026. Military spouses and partners in business joined us from from across the forces world to meet, network, collaborate, and support - and it was epic! A huge thanks to Amazon for hosting us and understanding what we all know - that military spouses and partners are the backbone of the U.K. armed forces and a crucial part of the UK‘s defence effectiveness - some of us are also running some pretty impressive businesses too. A special thank you to the brilliant panel speakers, some of the most [...]
077 : From RAF Veteran to Neuro-Inclusion Advocate with Ria Jackson
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 [...]
076 : Building Community & Navigating Military Life with Marama Alliance
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 [...]
075 : Advocating for Military Spouses with Camilla Howard
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 [...]
074 : Navigating Life’s Roller Coaster with Alex Rickerby
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, [...]
073: Military Spouse Success: Finding “Enough” & Thriving in Chaos with Dr. Katharine McAleese
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 [...]
How To Run Your Business Through A Military Posting
Navigating military life while building a business can feel like a constant battle, can't it? As a seasoned military spouse, I know first-hand the unique challenges that come with postings, married quarters, and the unpredictable nature of service life. But what if I told you that your business doesn't just have to survive these moves, but can actually thrive? This is exactly why I founded the Milspo, a supportive community designed to empower military spouses and partners like you to create sustainable, location-independent businesses. In this blog post, we'll dive into actionable strategies and tried-and-tested tips for seamlessly [...]
Military Spouses are NOT “Standard Issue”
Have you seen the latest trend? People are asking AI to create images of a toy version of their job. It's a fun concept, but it got me thinking... what would a toy version of a military spouse look like? The truth is, it's an impossible task. Because if there's one thing we are not, it's "standard issue". Think about our lives for a moment. We're juggling so much! You might be balancing family life, frequent moves, and trying to grow a business. You might be launching your dream business while adapting to new locations. And for some of us [...]
The Accidental Entrepreneur: How Military Life Redefined My Career
This year’s International Women’s Day is on the 8th March, and I’ll be celebrating, along with fellow spouses, female Veterans, and widows aboard HMSBelfast, London at ‘The Female Voice’ event. I’ve also been asked to speak - something that I love to do. But, I haven’t always felt this confident in business, in fact for a little while there I was completely lost in this challenging military life that I now find myself in. Here’s my story… Female entrepreneurship isn’t a new thing, but the amount of female-run businesses that are achieving amazing things is growing and I love it! [...]
Military Life & Business Goals: Finding Your Focus Amidst the Chaos
“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.” – Henry Ford. Famously known for being the founder of the Ford Motor Company, an American industrialist, business magnate and chief developer of the assembly line technique of mass production Feeling stuck in a rut and not sure what to do next in your business? You're not alone! Many military spouses look for the freedom and flexibility of running our own businesses, but the challenges of military life can often feel overwhelming, and can sometimes stunt us from achieving just what we want. Whether you're a [...]
Tackle Imposter Syndrome as a Military Spouse in Business – for good!
Do you ever feel like a fraud, like you're not good enough to be running your own business? You're not alone. Many military spouses in business experience imposter syndrome, that nagging feeling that you're not as competent as others think you are. But the truth is, you're more capable than you think. In this blog post, we'll explore what imposter syndrome is, why military spouses are particularly susceptible to it, and how to overcome it. You'll learn practical strategies to silence your inner critic and step into your power as a confident business owner. I get it - Imposter syndrome [...]
Are You Ready To Start Your Own Military Posting-Proof Business?
Starting a business as a military spouse? Discover how to create a portable business that thrives amidst the demands of military life. Learn if you're ready to launch a military-spouse-owned business and overcome the challenges of frequent moves and deployments. As a military spouse I know that in the past my career has been put on the back-burner. I made the choice to follow my husband and his demanding job as he was posted with his work with the RAF. With deployments, tours, detachments, frequent postings and growing families it can be difficult to keep your career on track as [...]
An Introduction to The Milspo Network
Military life can sometimes be a bit lonely, can’t it? Add running your own business into the equation, and there’s a chance that you will be feeling even more isolated than ever! Thankfully, there’s a growing online community, online, stuffed full of amazing Milspo business owners who always have your back. The Milspo Business Network is a community of over 1,400 entrepreneurial partners of UK personnel who connect, mentor and help others to build posting-proof businesses that can survive this crazy military life. The network has grown massively in the last eight years, from a simple podcast to a complete [...]
2025 is YOUR Year: 7 Reasons to Finally Start That Military Spouse Business
It’s a new year! 365 new starts to do something that you’ve always wanted to do. Since launching the free business start-up course, the Milspo Business Launch Accelerator in October last year I’ve found a whole new set of military spouses who want to start their own business. And now, more than ever Milspo's who are keen to start their own business is contacting me. It’s a new year! And I get it… You’ve probably found that being a military spouse has put your career dreams on hold. You’ve had to relocate, change jobs and put your partner’s career first. [...]
071 : Nilma Dole-Williams – Ambassadors Wife
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 [...]
070 : Amanda Prowse – International Bestselling Author
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! Jess x https://www.amandaprowse.com https://www.instagram.com/mrsamandaprowse/ The InDependent Spouse podcast was created to give a [...]
069 : Jess Sands – Building a Business Around the Juggle of Armed Forces Family Life
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 [...]
068 : Scottish Veterans Commissioner, Lieutenant Commander (retired) Susie Hamilton.
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 [...]
067 : Mia Harrington – Founder Handleys Stitch
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 [...]
066: Helen Willamson – Financial Planner, Veteran & Milspo
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 [...]
065: Lizze York – Founder – Cyclical Soul
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, [...]
064: Emily Bailey – Founder – Just Tourism
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 policy makers 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 [...]
The Milspo Network Recieves a Prime Ministers Points of Light Award
UK Points of Light Points of Light are outstanding individual volunteers – people who are making a change in their community. Every week day the Prime Minister recognises an inspirational volunteer with the daily Points of Light award. First established by President George H. W. Bush in 1990, over 7,000 US daily Points of Light have been recognised through the USA programme. UK Points of Light was developed in partnership with the US programme and launched in the Cabinet Room at 10 Downing Street in April 2014. Since then, hundreds of people have been named Points of Light by the [...]
New Book “Building Business Beyond The Magnolia Box” by Jessica Sands Offers Essential Guidance for Military Spouse Entrepreneurs
Launch Events at Battle of Britain Bunker Uxbridge and Online Zoom Event on June 7th and June 13th, 2023. LONDON, 8th June 2023 - Military spouse entrepreneurs face unique challenges as they balance the demands of military life with their business aspirations. To provide invaluable guidance, Jessica Sands, founder of the Milspo Network CIC, has authored a new book titled "Building Business Beyond The Magnolia Box." The book launched with a real-life event on June 7th, 2023, at the historic Battle of Britain Bunker Uxbridge, and supported by Amazon Apprenticeships, and attended by military personnel, partners and Lady Knighton, wife [...]
060 : Nicola Swann – Made With Mud
Hello you lovely lot, today I am chatting to the fab Nicola from Made with Mud. Nicola has a fascinating story about her business and how social media has both helped and hindered her business in the most dramatic way. But first, a little mention of the sponsors of this series – the RBL. After 100 years of supporting the Armed Forces community, the Royal British Legion understands and recognises the challenges faced by serving people and their families. That’s why they’re still here to support us in any way they can. From financial support to housing advice, [...]
059 : Carrie Moss – Networking with the Military Matchmaker
Hello, you wonderful lot, today’s podcast is all about the power of networking, and it’s great to be able to share with you the interview that I did with the fantastic Carrie Moss from the Military Matchmaker. But, before we get stuck in a little message from the RBL, who sponsor this series. The Royal British Legion offers all members of our Armed Forces community support. But we also understand that sometimes what’s needed is just a bit of advice. So whether it’s recommending specialised services, advice on housing, finances, or employment, they’ve got your back. Head to www.britishlegion.org.uk [...]
057 : Group Captain Toria McPhaden, Station Commander RAF Northolt
Hello you wonderful lot, I hope you are well, no matter where you find yourself in the world. It always astounds me when I check the stats on the podcast how many of you are listening, here in the UK and further afield. It’s great to see how these inspirational stories are being spread across the world and hopefully helping you feel a little bit more positive in your military life. Last week I felt especially honoured to talk at the International Military Spouse Virtual Employment Summit – showcasing military spouses, partners and other-halves in business and learning [...]
055 : Eleanor Tweddell: Why Losing Your Job Could be the Best Thing That Ever Happened to You
Happy Friday you wonderful lot, I hope you’re keeping well and enjoying this new series of The InDependent Spouse. This entire series has been sponsored by the Royal British Legion, who are gearing up for their busiest time of year. The Royal British Legion have been the national champions of Remembrance for 100 years , but they are about much more than just poppies. They’re here 365 days a year to support us and our families. Whether it’s helping to ease the transition for your family into civilian life with finance and employment advice from their teams of [...]
054 : Kelly Farr – YourNorth
Hello you wonderful lot, welcome to a new episode of the InDependent Spouse. This week I have been talking to founder of YourNorth, and RAF Veteran Kelly Farr. Before we get stuck in to the episode I should tell you about the wonderful sponsors of this series – the RBL. The Royal British Legion offer all members of our Armed Forces community support. But they also understand that sometimes what’s needed is just a bit of advice. Whether it’s recommending specialised services, advise on housing, finances or employment, they’ve got your back. Just search for the Royal British Legion [...]
053 : Dr Jill Jackson, The Birth Café
Hello you lovely lot, welcome to episode 6 of this 5th series of The InDependent Spouse. Today is a great episode if you are a parent, or a parent to be. I’ve been chatting to Dr Jill. Maternity doctor and founder of The Birth Café. But, just before the interview I need to tell you about the amazing work from The Royal British Legion, who sponsor this series. The RBL know that families are the most important support structure within the serving community. But time spent apart during exercises and operations has its challenges and can strain any [...]
052 : Naomi Hurst, Doda Yoga
Hello you wonderful lot, I hope you’re keeping well and enjoying the podcast series so far. I’ve heard some amazing feedback and really appreciate all of your comments. It really is an inspiring series, and todays episode is no different. Before we chat to Naomi, I need to tell you about the wonderful Royal British Legion. The Royal British Legion offer all members of our Armed Forces community support. But they also understand that sometimes what’s needed is just a bit of advice. Whether it’s recommending specialised services, advise on housing, finances or employment, they’ve got your back. Visit [...]
051: Meredith Sneddon, The Royal British Legion
Today I have been chatting to the lovely Meredith from the Royal British Legion. After 100 years supporting the Armed Forces community, the Royal British Legion understands and recognises the challenges faced by serving people and their families. That’s why they’re still here to support us in any way they can. From financial support to housing advise, or just someone to chat to outside of the chain of command or patch, they will continue to fight for us 365 days a year. Head to their website for more information or to get involved in their centenary celebrations www.britishlegion.org.uk [...]
050 : Nikki Scott, Scotty’s Little Soldiers
Hello you lovely lot, and welcome to todays episode with the wonderful Nikki from the charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers. Its an emotional one today, but a very important episode that I think you will all gain a lot from, but first, a message from the RBL. The Royal British Legion have been the national champions of Remembrance for 100 years , but they are about much more than just poppies. They’re here 365 days a year to support us and our families. Whether it’s helping to ease the transition for your family into civilian life with finance and [...]
049 : Emma Henderson – Project Wingman
Welcome to the second episode in this series of the InDependent Spouse. Today I have been talking to a wonderful charity founder, Emma Henderson, who flipped the adversity of the pandemic into a project that has helped thousands of front-line healthcare workers across the country. Project Wingman took flight at the start of the pandemic, providing specialist VIP lounges, run by grounded airline staff to provide first class service for front line NHS workers. What follows is a fascinating interview that looking behind the scenes at the airline industry and the difference a good idea, at the right [...]
047 : Pre-Series 5 Special – Jess is interviewed by Alex from Give Us Time
Time for something a little different. Jess, host of The InDependent Spouse was asked to be a guest on the Give Us Time podcast series and what follows is the complete episode. Give Us Time is a charity that offers free holidays to the military community, to help us connect with our serving partners and have quality time together as a family. Huge thanks to Give Us Time for allowing us to share this episode.
046 : Sarah Hulyer – Blooms from the Base
Today I have been talking to the wonderful Sarah from Blooms from the base. This last episode of series four is a very positive episode that will have you dreaming of Spring! It's going to bring you an awful lot of happiness, especially at this time of year when the weather is looking a little bit miserable. It's another great example of when military life gets a bit much and if you are about to experience deployment it is defiantly a good one for you that might inspire you to get your teeth into a new project! [...]
045 : Helen Massy – Careers, Not Just Jobs
Today I have been chatting to the lovely Helen, who created Career Pursuit, a guide especially for all military spouses all over the world. It helps you gain clarity on your career or in which way you might want to take your business. It is an amazing guide, chock full of information and you should definitely go and have a look. The following interview explains why she started it, and the sorts of information you can find in the guide. Thank you to Helen for all of your hard work creating this epic resource!
041 : Dr Rosie Gilderthorp – Do More Than Therapy
Today I've been talking to my lovely pal Dr Rosie, better known as Dr Rosanna Gilderthorp - Clinical Psychologist who's leading a movement of innovators to change the conversation about mental health. We talk all things hypnobirthing, psychological therapy and how on earth we get through military life and a pandemic. You are going to love this episode!
040 : Sarah Walker – Supporting The Unsung Hero
Today I've been talking to the wonderful Sarah Walker from the free Supporting the Unsung Hero Business Start-Up course. The course is open to all members of the Armed Forces Community and gives easily digestible business advice to help you start your business.
039 : Jessica, Scuba Diver – Tsunamis & Earthquakes
Ever wondered what it's like to live through a Tsunami and under-water earthquake, well today's guest has done exactly that! Jessica is a Navy wife, mum and adventurer who's experienced some truly remarkable things whilst scuba-diving. I am very proud to be bringing you this episode as we re-start the series to highlight the huge range of stories from our community that should be shared.
038 : Mid-Series Break
I am moving house (again!) so sadly the podcast series is taking a little break. But, do not worry, there is still loads for you to get stuck into. Head to milspo.co.uk to find out about the weekly Milspo Meet-Ups, the monthly Virtual Networking, the online community and build a network you can take anywhere. Have the best summer and I'll speak to you soon!
037 : Hannah Shergold, Artist – It’s Really Just Problem Solving!
This week's NEW podcast episode is with the wonderful Hannah Shergold. Winchester artist Hannah Shergold has a fascinating, albeit peculiar back story and is now one of the most successful self-representing artists in the UK. Since leaving the Armed Forces in April 2018 Hannah has hosted two solo exhibitions on London’s Pall Mall and within 15 months raised over £120,000 for charity through the sale of her artwork. She recently partnered with Prince William’s conservation charity Tusk with a fundraising target of £75,000. But despite her success, Hannah has taken a less conventional route to reach it. She [...]
‘The Milspo Business Network supports military partners during Covid-19 outbreak’ – PRESS
Original Article from Blasting News - 15th May 2020 Original Article Milspo Business Network is a community organisation that supports the partners and spouses of Military personal to achieve their business goals. It was created by RAF wife and Graphic Designer Jess Sands, who after her frequent house moves due to her husband's career in the forces, had to quit her dream job. Employers in her sector were reluctant to employ military partners due to the uncertainty of relocations. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the hive mind has evolved into much more than a business network; it is a lifeline to many partners who [...]
028 : Scott Johnson, Veteran Owned UK
Hello you lovely lot, welcome back to The InDependent Spouse podcast series. This week I am very proud to share with you my chat with the completely amazing Scott, from Veteran Owned UK. Veteran Owned UK is a massive online community - but don't be put off, it's not just for those Veterans, it's also for us! The military spouses and partners in business. This interview is perfect for January. It's full of loads of insights and a lot of inspiration so I really hope you enjoy the episode!
Forces Families Jobs – Launch at The House of Lords
Forces Families Jobs is an employment and training platform specifically designed to support Service families into meaningful employment and provide opportunities for training and development. The platform is being delivered by a tri-Service partnership between the Naval Families Federation (NFF), Army Families Federation (AFF) and Royal Air Force Families Federation (RAF-FF). The offical launch happened on Tuesday, 17th September at The House of Lords. It was an amazing event that hosted a great collection of Armed Forces supporters and community, all there to celebrate the launch of the site. I was very honoured to be asked to be one [...]