I'Mpossible Podcast

I'MPossible Interview with Alexis Lyons

In this inspiring episode of the I'MPossible Podcast, host Monica Fullerton is joined by talented Spouse-ly vendor and fine artist Alexis Lyons, the creative force behind Lyons Art Studios. This episode is a celebration of creativity, reinvention, and the courage to follow the path that feels most meaningful. As an Air Force spouse, former nurse, and artist, Alexis has built a creative business that reflects both her adaptability and her passion for bringing bold, vibrant ideas to life. Inspired by nature and travel, Alexis creates colorful paintings that invite people to notice the beauty, movement, and details of the world around them. From striking butterflies and florals to expressive original artwork, each piece reflects her distinctive artistic perspective and love of color. We dive into Alexis's journey as a military spouse entrepreneur, what inspired her to open Lyons Art Studios , and how she has continued developing her identity as an artist through the changing seasons of military life. Alexis shares the value of pursuing work that can grow and evolve alongside you—even when life does not follow a predictable path. This conversation is more than a spotlight on a beautiful art studio—it's a reminder that our previous chapters do not limit what we can create next. Sometimes, possibility begins when we give ourselves permission to explore a new direction, trust our creativity, and build something that is truly our own. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, military spouse, career changer, or someone considering a creative leap, this episode is filled with encouragement, inspiration, and a colorful reminder of what's possible. Learn more about Alexis and Lyons Art Studios on Spouse-ly: Lyons Art Studios Community Note: We're grateful for partners who champion military and first-responder families building careers and companies—on base, between PCS moves, and beyond. 💬 Share this episode with three friends who could use a little inspiration! 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a story. 🛒 Support our incredible vendors and partners—links below. You can connect with Monica on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. To learn how you can become a vendor or support our vendors, please visit Spouse-ly today!

I'MPossible Interview with Samantha "Sam" Hiegel

In this inspiring episode of the IMpossible Podcast , host Monica Fullerton is joined by talented Spouse-ly vendor Samantha "Sam" Hiegel , the creative heart behind Sam & Sea Artistry . This episode is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the beauty that can come from turning life's changing seasons into meaningful art. As an Army spouse, mother, and resin artist, Sam has built a business rooted in nature, memory, and connection — creating one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by the crystal coastlines of North Carolina and the rugged beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We dive into Sam's journey as a military spouse entrepreneur, the inspiration behind Sam & Sea Artistry, and how she transforms natural elements into functional décor and keepsakes that carry both beauty and meaning. Sam shares what it has looked like to grow a creative business through the uncertainty of military life, while continuing to show up with heart, purpose, and artistry. This conversation is more than a spotlight on a beautiful brand — it's a reminder that creativity can become a place of grounding, storytelling, and connection, no matter where military life takes you. Whether you're a maker, artist, entrepreneur, military spouse, or someone who believes in the power of handmade work, this episode is filled with encouragement, inspiration, and the kind of creative energy that reminds us what's possible. Learn more about Sam & Sea Artistry on Spouse-ly: Sam & Sea Artistry Community Note: We're grateful for partners who champion military and first-responder families building careers and companies—on base, between PCS moves, and beyond. 💬 Share this episode with three friends who could use a little inspiration! 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a story. 🛒 Support our incredible vendors and partners — links below. You can connect with Monica on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . To learn how you can become a vendor or support our vendors, please visit Spouse-ly today! We'd love to have you follow us on: Visit us on Spouse-ly Facebook Find us on Spouse-ly Instagram All information provided is property of Spouse-ly.

I'Mpossible Interview with Sarah Doran and Jennifer Harms

In this inspiring episode of the IMpossible Podcast , host Monica Fullerton is joined by two incredibly talented Spouse-ly vendors — Sarah Doran , author of The Fearless and Fallen , and Jennifer Harms , the artist behind the book's beautiful illustrations. This episode is a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the magic that happens when women support one another's visions. Sarah and Jennifer share how their unique talents came together to bring The Fearless and Fallen to life — a powerful new book written and illustrated entirely by members of the Spouse-ly community. We dive into the inspiration behind the story, what it took to blend words and visuals seamlessly, and how their shared values and belief in one another fueled the creative process. This is more than just a book launch — it's a reminder of what's possible when we lift each other up. Whether you're a writer, artist, entrepreneur, or just someone who believes in the power of community, this episode is packed with heart, insight, and fearless energy. Pre-orders for The Fearless and Fallen go live exclusively on Spouse-ly on January 13, 2026. Learn more here: https://spouse-ly.com/ store/Author-Sarah-Doran/ Community Note: We're grateful for partners who champion military and first-responder families building careers and companies—on base, between PCS moves, and beyond. 🙌 Special Thanks: Huge thanks to our season sponsor, US Bank and Elavon, for their continued support of small business owners through the Small Business, Big Ambition initiative. Learn more and enter to win a $3,000 business grant at Small Business, Big Ambition . 💬 Share this episode with three friends who could use a little inspiration! 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a story. 🛒 Support our incredible vendors and partners — links below. You can connect with Elavon on: Elavon Website Find them on Elavon's Facebook Connect with them on Elavon's LinkedIn Find out more about the Elavon & Spouse-ly partnership here . You can connect with Monica on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . To learn how you can become a vendor or support our vendors, please visit Spouse-ly today! We'd love to have you follow us on: Visit us on Spouse-ly Facebook Find us on Spouse-ly Instagram All information provided is property of Spouse-ly.

I'Mpossible Interview with Jennifer Cornelius

In this inspiring episode, host Monica Fullerton sits down with Jennifer Cornelius, a Marine Corps veteran and East Regional Security Director at U.S. Bank, to share her incredible story of resilience, faith, and self-discovery. From a Brooklyn childhood dreaming of driving New York City trains to a decorated 13-year Marine career, Jennifer's journey shows how challenges can forge clarity and purpose. She opens up about single motherhood, transitioning out of the military, finding her footing in corporate security, and the power of slowing down long enough to truly be present in the life you're building. Key Takeaways From trains to transformation: A Brooklyn girl's curiosity and discipline turned early dreams into a calling for leadership and service. Challenge as catalyst: After failing the Navy entrance exam, a Marine recruiter's doubt lit the fire that launched Jennifer's 13-year career in the Corps. The power of mentorship: One person's belief—and challenge—can completely shift the trajectory of your life. Transition with intention: Taking a full year off after service allowed Jennifer to refocus on family, finish her degree, and rediscover her civilian identity. Be present, not just productive: Checking the boxes isn't the same as living the moments—slow down, breathe, and be there. Networking opens doors: Her natural leadership as a contract site supervisor led to unexpected career growth within the banking world. Faith = foundation: Through every transition—military, motherhood, marriage, and management—staying grounded in faith has kept her steady. Know your "why": Define what anchors you, not what others expect of you, and let that guide your next chapter. Featured Guest: Jennifer Cornelius — Marine veteran, East Regional Security Director at U.S. Bank, wife, mother of eight (through a beautifully blended family), and advocate for leading with faith and authenticity. Community Note: We're grateful for partners who champion military and first-responder families building careers and companies—on base, between PCS moves, and beyond. 🙌 Special Thanks: Huge thanks to our season sponsor, US Bank and Elavon, for their continued support of small business owners through the Small Business, Big Ambition initiative. Learn more and enter to win a $3,000 business grant at Small Business, Big Ambition . 💬 Share this episode with three friends who could use a little inspiration! 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a story. 🛒 Support our incredible vendors and partners — links below. You can connect with Elavon on: Elavon Website Find them on Elavon's Facebook Connect with them on Elavon's LinkedIn Find out more about the Elavon & Spouse-ly partnership here . You can connect with Monica on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . To learn how you can become a vendor or support our vendors, please visit Spouse-ly today! We'd love to have you follow us on: Visit us on Spouse-ly Facebook Find us on Spouse-ly Instagram All information provided is property of Spouse-ly.

I'Mpossible Interview with Amy Suzanne

In this powerful episode, host Monica Fullerton sits down with Amy Suzanne, military spouse, mom of six, and founder of Pink Stork. Amy shares her astonishing journey from being told she might never have children to surviving hyperemesis gravidarum, a life-threatening blood infection, multiple deployments and PCS moves—and ultimately building a mission-driven women's wellness brand found at Target, Walmart, Amazon, and in 25+ countries. It's a story of faith, grit, and using your hardest seasons to help others. Key Takeaways From "impossible" to "I'm possible": Amy was told she couldn't have kids—then learned she was pregnant two weeks into marriage, later surviving HG, PICC lines, and a 24-hour prognosis. Resilience through military life: NICU scares, back-to-back pregnancies, solo parenting during deployments, and PCS chaos—plus the learning curve of acronyms and base life. Turning pain into purpose: Research into gut health, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics during pregnancy led to a 180° shift—and the spark for Pink Stork. Build for impact: Pink Stork now offers 170+ products supporting women through fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, hormones, perimenopause/menopause, and beyond—each batch prayed over. Community & calling: ~80% of the Pink Stork team are women, with strong support for military spouses. Share your story, ask for help, and use your experiences to lift others. Mantras to move you: Keep the end goal in sight, stay open-handed with the journey, and remember—growth begins when comfort ends. Featured Guest: Amy Suzanne — Founder & CEO, Pink Stork; military spouse; mom of six (ages 2–15); champion for women's wellness worldwide. 🛍 Featured Brand: Pink Stork Women's wellness made with care—from fertility and pregnancy support to hormone balance and menopause essentials. Mission-driven, beautifully made, and community focused. 🛒 Shop here: Pink Stork Products Community Note: We're grateful for partners who champion military and first-responder families building careers and companies—on base, between PCS moves, and beyond. 🙌 Special Thanks: Huge thanks to our season sponsor, US Bank and Elavon, for their continued support of small business owners through the Small Business, Big Ambition initiative. Learn more and enter to win a $3,000 business grant at Small Business, Big Ambition . 💬 Share this episode with three friends who could use a little inspiration! 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a story. 🛒 Support our incredible vendors and partners — links below. You can connect with Elavon on: Elavon Website Find them on Elavon's Facebook Connect with them on Elavon's LinkedIn Find out more about the Elavon & Spouse-ly partnership here . You can connect with Monica on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . To learn how you can become a vendor or support our vendors, please visit Spouse-ly today! We'd love to have you follow us on: Visit us on Spouse-ly Facebook Find us on Spouse-ly Instagram All information provided is property of Spouse-ly.

Holiday Season Bonus Episode

I'Mpossible Interview with Les Hoffman

🎙 In this powerful episode, host Monica Fullerton sits down with Les Hoffman, Marine Corps veteran and VP of Product at U.S. Bank. Growing up a "military brat," Les learned to adapt early—skills that later carried him through logistics leadership in the Marines, a demanding transition into the private sector, and ultimately product leadership serving the supply-chain economy. From boots-on-the-ground complexity to boardroom clarity, Les breaks down how to translate service experience into market value, build a personal brand that opens doors, and lead with purpose through every pivot. 🔑 Key Takeaways Purpose → people: Service starts big, then becomes the daily commitment to the person on your left and right—and that mindset scales to business. Military → business translation: Don't say "I can do anything." Quantify scope (budgets, assets, teams, systems), outcomes, and decisions under pressure. Your 2-minute pitch: Who you are, the problems you solve, the results you delivered, and why your approach works. Network for intel (and timing): Culture fit and upcoming roles rarely show up in job posts—people do. Own your brand: Confidence isn't bravado; it's clarity. Share specific wins and the value you uniquely create. Create your best self: Define the destination you're aiming at (career, family, impact) and reverse-engineer the steps—then adjust as life evolves. Never go alone: Progress compounds with mentors, peers, and "hype squads." Teamwork makes the dream work—on base and in business. 👤 Featured Guest: Les Hoffman — Marine veteran; VP of Product, U.S. Bank. Logistics-to-fintech leader focused on connecting shippers, carriers, and capital so goods (and businesses) keep moving. 🤝 Community Note: We're grateful for partners who champion military and first-responder families building careers and companies—on base, between PCS moves, and beyond. 🙌 Special Thanks: Huge thanks to our season sponsor, US Bank and Elavon, for their continued support of small business owners through the Small Business, Big Ambition initiative. Learn more and enter to win a $3,000 business grant at Small Business, Big Ambition . 💬 Share this episode with three friends who could use a little inspiration! 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a story. 🛒 Support our incredible vendors and partners — links below. You can connect with Elavon on: Elavon Website Find them on Elavon's Facebook Connect with them on Elavon's LinkedIn Find out more about the Elavon & Spouse-ly partnership here . You can connect with Monica on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . To learn how you can become a vendor or support our vendors, please visit Spouse-ly today! We'd love to have you follow us on: Visit us on Spouse-ly Facebook Find us on Spouse-ly Instagram All information provided is property of Spouse-ly.

I'Mpossible Interview with Dani Pettrey

🎙 In this powerful episode, host Monica Fullerton sits down with bestselling suspense author and veteran spouse Dani Pettrey. From an eighth-birthday gift of Murder on the Orient Express and after-school Scooby-Doo to 14 published novels and over 1,000,000 copies sold, Dani's story is a masterclass in passion, purpose, and perseverance. She shares how marriage, motherhood, and military life shaped her path; why she homeschooled to protect family flexibility; how a craft class, a mentor (the legendary Dee Henderson), and years of rejections forged her voice; and the conference hallway moment that led to her first book deal in 2010. Practical, encouraging, and real—this is for every creator who's tempted to quit right before the breakthrough. 🔑 Key Takeaways Passion → craft → career: How childhood mystery love + steady practice + mentoring opened doors. Military-life pivots: Homeschooling for flexibility; writing during "pockets" of time (sports practices = writing sprints). Resilience pays: Two early novels racked up ~30 rejections each; the third sold—then 13 more followed. Agent ≠ destiny: Trusting your gut—even parting amicably with an agent—can be the brave, right call. Conferences matter: Pitch sessions and hallway conversations (hello, Bethany House!) can bypass the slush pile. Indie vs. Traditional: Creative control & management mindset (indie) vs. publisher-handled production & bookstore reach (traditional). Author marketing 101: Let readers know you—share life 2/3 of the time, book promo ~1/3; build a loyal launch team and genuine relationships. Mantra to move you: "I can do hard things." Pair it with Monica's: "Growth begins when comfort ends." 📚 Dani's Series (Reader Faves) Alaskan Courage – Five siblings, adventure outfitting, and search-and-rescue suspense in rugged Alaska. Chesapeake Valor – Four friends in Baltimore law enforcement; a tragedy separates them, a case reunites them. Coastal Guardians – High-stakes cases with the Coast Guard Investigative Service team. Jeopardy Falls – Siblings raised by con artists flip the script as PI's who bust cons. 👤 Featured Guest: Dani Pettrey — Author & Veteran Spouse 🛍 Featured Brand: Dani Pettrey Books on Spouse-ly - Dani Pettrey Perfect gifts for the mystery/suspense lovers on your list—bundle a series for the holidays!Suspense with heart, hope, and high stakes. 14 novels (and counting). 🙌 Special Thanks: Huge thanks to our season sponsor, US Bank and Elavon, for their continued support of small business owners through the Small Business, Big Ambition initiative. Learn more and enter to win a $3,000 business grant at Small Business, Big Ambition . 💬 Share this episode with three friends who could use a little inspiration! 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a story. 🛒 Support our incredible vendors and partners — links below. You can connect with Elavon on: Elavon Website Find them on Elavon's Facebook Connect with them on Elavon's LinkedIn Find out more about the Elavon & Spouse-ly partnership here . You can connect with Monica on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . To learn how you can become a vendor or support our vendors, please visit Spouse-ly today! We'd love to have you follow us on: Visit us on Spouse-ly Facebook Find us on Spouse-ly Instagram All information provided is property of Spouse-ly.

I'Mpossible Interview with Ben Prill

🎙 In this inspiring episode, host Monica Fullerton sits down with Ben Prill, founder of Bourbon Smoke Woodworking—and the other half of the creative power couple behind Love and Lettering by Katie. From his early days in Wisconsin and an ROTC scholarship decision that set him on an Air Force career, to discovering woodworking as both a creative outlet and a source of connection, Ben's story is one of risk-taking, resilience, and crafting meaning from raw materials. What began as a way to decompress during South Dakota's long winters grew into a thriving small business, producing everything from custom coin racks and retirement gifts to his signature cigar-and-whiskey holders. Ben shares how military life shaped his entrepreneurial path, how he and Katie balance two creative businesses (often sharing garage space!), and why taking risks and learning from mistakes are essential in both craftsmanship and life. 🔑 Key Takeaways How Ben's Air Force journey began with an ROTC scholarship and led to meeting his wife, Katie The role woodworking played in maintaining mental health and balance as a squadron commander Lessons from starting with a simple cutting board and growing into a full product line The challenges and opportunities of running a business during PCS moves Why risk-taking and embracing mistakes are vital for growth Tips for finding inspiration in your craft and turning creative hobbies into meaningful products 🛍 Featured Brand: Bourbon Smoke Woodworking Handcrafted gifts and home goods made with care, precision, and a dash of personality—from cutting boards to custom whiskey-and-cigar holders. 📲 Connect with Ben: Instagram: @bourbonsmokewoodworking Shop on Spouse-ly: Bourbon Smoke Woodworking (Reopening soon—join the newsletter for updates!) 🙌 Special Thanks: Huge thanks to our season sponsor, US Bank and Elavon, for their continued support of small business owners through the Small Business, Big Ambition initiative. Learn more and enter to win a $3,000 business grant at Small Business, Big Ambition . Call to Action: 💬 Share this episode with three friends who could use a little inspiration! 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a story. 🛒 Support our incredible vendors and partners — links below. You can connect with Elavon on: Elavon Website Find them on Elavon's Facebook Connect with them on Elavon's LinkedIn Find out more about the Elavon & Spouse-ly partnership here . You can connect with Monica on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . To learn how you can become a vendor or support our vendors, please visit Spouse-ly today! We'd love to have you follow us on: Visit us on Spouse-ly Facebook Find us on Spouse-ly Instagram All information provided is property of Spouse-ly.

I'Mpossible Interview with Lyndsey Akers

🎙 In this powerful episode, host Monica Fullerton sits down with longtime friend, communications powerhouse, and military spouse entrepreneur Lyndsey Akers. From her early days as a college softball champ and aspiring sports publicist to becoming the strategic force behind Spouse-ly's media success, Lyndsey's journey is one of reinvention, resilience, and rising into purpose. As the storyteller behind countless Spouse-ly wins, Lyndsey steps into the spotlight to share her own I Am Possible journey—how motherhood transformed her values, how she walked away from corporate life to pursue a deeper calling, and how she built a business rooted in helping others amplify their voice. Candid, inspiring, and full of real talk, this episode is a celebration of sharing your story, owning your worth, and building a table big enough for everyone to sit at. 🔑 Key Takeaways • How Lyndsey's early career dream of sports publicity led to a career in communications, storytelling, and strategic media • Why motherhood and military life triggered a powerful pivot toward entrepreneurship • The behind-the-scenes moments that shaped Spouse-ly's visibility and brand identity • The emotional blocks that keep entrepreneurs from sharing their stories—and how to overcome them • Building trust through authenticity, finding your voice, and choosing the right platform to show up • Why sharing your journey isn't selfish—it's service • Tips on surrounding yourself with a hype squad, finding momentum, and giving yourself grace through every season of business 👥 Featured Guest: Lyndsey Akers Storytelling strategist, communications consultant, proud military spouse, and your favorite new business bestie. Helping brands go from invisible to impactful by owning their story and shining their light. 📲 Connect with Lyndsey: Instagram: @lyndseyakers Newsletter, podcast, and other resources: Akers.co ✨ Shop on Spousely 📱 Connect with Lyndsey: LinkedIn 🙌 Special Thanks: Huge thanks to our season sponsor, US Bank and Elavon, for their continued support of small business owners through the Small Business, Big Ambition initiative. Learn more and enter to win a $3,000 business grant at Small Business, Big Ambition . Call to Action: 💬 Share this episode with three friends who could use a little inspiration! 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a story. 🛒 Support our incredible vendors and partners — links below. You can connect with Elavon on: Elavon Website Find them on Elavon's Facebook Connect with them on Elavon's LinkedIn Find out more about the Elavon & Spouse-ly partnership here . You can connect with Monica on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . To learn how you can become a vendor or support our vendors, please visit Spouse-ly today! We'd love to have you follow us on: Visit us on Spouse-ly Facebook Find us on Spouse-ly Instagram All information provided is property of Spouse-ly.