In this episode of Beyond Orders, we sit down with Danielle Hillebrand, a professional body piercer with 17 years of experience and a proud military spouse of 8 years. Danielle’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of identity in the face of constant transition.
Each PCS move has brought new challenges, but also new opportunities. Danielle has successfully restarted her studio, Elegant Edge, four times in four different states — proving that dedication and creativity can keep both passion and career alive no matter where military life leads. Through every relocation, Danielle has rebuilt her clientele, reestablished her business, and continued to grow her craft.
As a mom of two young kids and a business owner, Danielle balances the demands of family, entrepreneurship, and military life with grit and grace. She shares candidly about the sacrifices, lessons, and strategies that allow her to maintain peace, protect her sense of self, and continue thriving in a career she loves.
Listeners will walk away with insights on:
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Navigating career reinvention through PCS moves and military life
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The challenges and rewards of running a business while raising young kids
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Why identity and purpose outside of the military structure are vital for spouses
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How to lean into passion and perseverance to create a life that works anywhere
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The resilience it takes to start over, again and again, without losing momentum
Danielle’s journey is a testament to the fact that military spouses don’t just adapt, they innovate, rebuild, and thrive. This conversation will leave you motivated to hold on to what makes you you, even in the most unpredictable seasons of life.
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