From Military Spouse to Entrepreneur: Building Community & Women Empowering Women with Wendy Hively (E204)
In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Wendy Hively—a Navy spouse, retired scientist, and entrepreneur who has spent more than a decade building a business that supports military families. After giving up two jobs in her career field during her husband’s service, Wendy experienced firsthand the employment challenges many military spouses face. That experience led her to entrepreneurship as a way to create both stability and purpose.
She is the founder of Charliemadison Originals, a lifestyle brand named after her daughters and inspired by three generations of military service in her family. The brand not only celebrates military life but also gives back—5% of every purchase is donated to organizations supporting servicemembers and their families. Wendy also shares about her newest venture, Charliemadison Labs, a women-led coaching community that helps entrepreneurs get out of their own way and grow their businesses.
Episode Highlights:
Starting a business with $200 in the bank.
The employment challenges military spouses often face.
Why entrepreneurship can be a powerful alternative career path.
Skills military spouses develop that translate to business success.
Building community through Charliemadison Originals.
Wendy’s newest venture: Charliemadison Labs women-led coaching for entrepreneurs.
Her book flight celebrating women who empower women.
Connect with Wendy:
Show Notes
Some links are affiliate links, which are no extra cost to you but do help to support the show.
Books and authors mentioned in the episode:
The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy
The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho
Kills Well with Others by Deanna Raybourne
Book Flight
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict
Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourne
The 2026 Bookish Flights Reading Challenge is here—a simple, nostalgic way to be intentional with your reading. One book per month, with options for individuals and families. Download it at https://www.bookishflights.com/read/2026readingchallenge
