Frequent moves and fragmented job histories often leave military spouses without stable employment, but one Wiltshire-based entrepreneur is working to change that narrative — by helping women build location-independent businesses tailored to the realities of military life.
Cath Smith, founder of Summit & Stream, launched her coaching and retreat-based programme after facing years of career instability while supporting her husband’s military service overseas. A two-year posting to the Czech Republic highlighted the lack of business mentoring available to women constantly on the move.
In May — which marks Military Spouse Appreciation Month — her initiative is seeing a surge in participation. Through community retreats and a structured 12-week academy, Summit & Stream is helping women who have sacrificed their careers for military life to regain financial control and personal purpose.
“Military partners move every two years on average – it’s nearly impossible to maintain a traditional career or explain a fragmented CV,” said Cath Smith.
“I created Summit & Stream to offer a practical and emotional support system for women who want to take control of their financial future without sacrificing family or identity.”
The programme’s first retreat, set in the Brecon Beacons, combined business development with emotional resilience-building — culminating in a sunrise hike to Pen Y Fan. Her follow-on academy gives women the tools to create and run successful online businesses, with mentorship, community access and practical resources designed for remote, adaptable lifestyles.
Cath, a qualified educator and business mentor, now also sits on the board of the Military Coworking Network. Her mission is to show that career fulfilment is possible for military spouses — and that flexibility, not sacrifice, should be the standard.
“Women in the military community are resourceful, educated, and motivated — they just need the flexibility to match,” added Cath Smith. “This isn’t just about building businesses; it’s about building resilience, independence and hope.”
