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Hey there, listener! Thank you for checking out our older seasons! As of September 2025, we have revamped our website! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

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182: Melissa Purnell - Crafting Sweet Success with Sweet Blooms Confectionery

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CSytVYJ2a2Y

Have you ever considered turning a hobby or passion into a business? Melissa Purnell, the owner of Sweet Blooms Confectionary, shares her journey from working in marketing for medical devices to starting her own bakery business.

Melissa's decision to start her own business was influenced by her desire for a sense of purpose beyond raising her children. She shares how the idea for her bakery business started when someone suggested she sell her cupcakes. Melissa credits The Rosie Network's Service2CEO program, which helped her develop her business model. Listen to how she navigates the complexities of being a military spouse, the benefits of having a supportive military community, and how she brings joy and sweetness to many!

Resources Mentioned:

As of Fall 2025, we have revamped our site! So if any episodes or links seem to be missing, don't hesitate to contact Jen at jen@holdingdownthefortpodcast.com

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SHOW'S HISTORY FROM SEP 2023 to NOV 2024:

For Season 8 and 9, we showcased our partnership with Blue Water Advisors who brings needed change to our Veteran Senior Leaders, One Career Progression at a Time. Learn more at https://www.bluewater-advisors.com/

For Seasons 7, 8, and 9 (from episodes 152 to 214), the show partnered with The Rosie Network to showcase Service2CEO Graduates. Read more at https://www.flipsnack.com/5C757FD6AED/military-entrepreneur-magazine-spring-2025/full-view.html?p=39

RECOGNITION:

In the Fall of 2023, Jen Amos was sought after by InDependent to co-host the 8th annual InDependent Wellness Summit™.

In August 2022, Jen Amos' work on the podcast was recognized by Disney Institute and she was hand-selected as the only non-Disney employee to moderate the first Military Spouse Employment panel for the Veterans Institute Summit.

March 2022, former co-host Jenny Lynne has voted the 2022 Naval Station Norfolk Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year.

November 2020, Jen Amos was awarded “Media Professional of the Year” at The Rosie Network Entrepreneur Awards! The show continued to collect award nominations in the following years. In September 2021, the show made the Final Slate in the 16th Annual...

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