From Battlefield to Financial Freedom: A Veteran's Mission to Protect, Educate, and Empower
For 25 years, I served in the military, dedicating my life to leadership, resilience, and protecting others. The military shaped me, taught me discipline, and instilled in me a deep sense of duty—not just to my country, but to the people around me. What I didn’t realize at the time was that my next mission would be just as critical—helping women, veterans, and first responders secure their financial futures.
My path into the financial industry wasn’t planned, it was personal. Over time, I saw just how many families were unprepared for life’s unexpected turns, not because they didn’t care, but because they didn’t know what they didn’t know.
That realization ignited something in me. I knew I had to step up and educate others before it was too late. I had spent my life serving in one way, and now it was time to serve in a new way—by helping people build financial security, protect their families, and avoid the hardships that come with being unprepared.
But my mission doesn’t stop with individual families. As my business has grown, so has my desire to reach more people. I’ve stepped into speaking engagements, where I share real-life experiences and educate larger audiences on indexed accounts, living benefits, and financial strategies that provide real security. My goal is to make financial education accessible, relatable, and empowering—so people don’t have to learn these lessons the hard way.
Beyond my business, I’m also a caregiver for my dad, a role that has reinforced the importance of preparation, financial stability, and long-term security. Life is unpredictable, but having the right protections in place ensures that when challenges come, we can focus on what truly matters—our loved ones, our well-being, and our future.
Looking back, my journey has been one of service, transformation, and resilience. From leading in the military to leading in financial education, I’ve learned that success isn’t about what we gain—it’s about the impact we make. This isn’t just my career, it’s my purpose. Every time I help a family, guide a veteran, or empower a woman to take control of her financial future, I know that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
How do you define your personal story of success?
I define my personal story of success not by titles, income, or accolades, but by the impact I make in the lives of others. Success, to me, is measured in the families I help protect, the veterans and first responders I empower with financial security, and the people who gain confidence in their futures because of the work I do.
My journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From my time in the military, where I learned the value of service, resilience, and leadership, to navigating personal setbacks and burnout, every experience has shaped me into the person I am today. One of my biggest realizations along the way has been that true success isn’t about never facing obstacles—it’s about overcoming them and continuing to grow.
A major part of my success is the ability to educate and advocate for others. Whether through one-on-one consultations or speaking to groups**, my goal is to give people the tools they need to make informed financial decisions, so they never have to experience the kind of hardship I’ve seen too many families face.
Being a caregiver for my dad has also redefined what success means to me. It has reinforced that financial security is not just about numbers—it’s about freedom, peace of mind, and the ability to care for those we love without worry.
For me, success is about living with purpose, making a difference, and creating a legacy of empowerment. If I can look back and know that I’ve helped others secure their futures, reduce financial stress, and find hope in uncertain times, then I’ve truly succeeded.
Who or what inspired you to take the first step toward your goals?
My husband, Steve, was the driving force behind me taking the first step towards my business. He not only introduced me to one of my mentors but has been my biggest supporter every step of the way. Even in moments when my confidence wavers, he never stops believing in me—sometimes even more than I believe in myself.
His unwavering faith in my abilities, constant encouragement, and belief in my potential have pushed me forward, especially during times of doubt. Knowing I have him by my side on this journey has been invaluable, and I’m incredibly grateful for his support, guidance, and belief in my dreams.
What does true leadership mean to you, and how do you embody it?
To me, true leadership is about service, integrity, and empowerment. It’s not just about guiding others but lifting them up, leading by example, and creating a path for others to succeed—even when no one is watching. A great leader doesn’t just give directions; they inspire, educate, and support those around them to reach their full potential.
I embody leadership by staying committed to my mission of financial education, especially for veterans, first responders, women, and families who need guidance in securing their futures. I lead with transparency and compassion, ensuring that people feel empowered rather than pressured when making financial decisions.
Leadership also means resilience and accountability—recognizing when challenges arise, learning from setbacks, and continuing to push forward. As a caregiver for my dad, I’ve learned firsthand how important it is to show up with strength, patience, and adaptability, even in difficult times. Most importantly, I believe true leadership is about paying it forward—mentoring others, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for those who come after me. Whether through educational workshops, one-on-one guidance, or simply being a supportive voice, I strive to lead in a way that leaves a lasting impact on the lives of others.
Can you share a moment when you wanted to quit but found the strength to push forward?
Two years ago, I faced a moment that nearly made me quit. My niece and her husband were in a terrible car accident, and tragically, he didn’t survive. He was only 33, leaving behind his wife—just 32 years old—and their five children, the youngest only two months old.
For the first time in my financial career, I felt like I had failed. If I had been able to educate them earlier about the importance of having more than just a $50,000 life insurance policy through work, maybe things would have been different. That amount barely covered his funeral expenses, leaving my niece to work two jobs while raising five children on her own. The weight of that realization was overwhelming, making me question whether I was truly making a difference and if I was on the right career path.
But in that moment of doubt, I found my strength. Instead of quitting, I made a commitment to educate and empower as many families as possible, ensuring they never have to face the same devastating financial burden. This experience reinforced why I do what I do: helping people prepare for the unexpected, protecting their families, and securing their financial futures. It’s no longer just a career for me—it’s a mission.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way but wouldn’t trade?
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned but wouldn’t trade is to not compare my journey to others and to never quit. I recently faced a setback when I took on a part-time job, unknowingly shifting my focus away from growing my business. In the process of juggling too many responsibilities, I burned out. Life happened, and before I even realized it, I had unintentionally put my dream on hold.
This experience taught me the importance of balance, self-awareness, and staying intentional about my goals. I now understand that progress doesn’t always look the same for everyone, and stepping back to reenergize isn’t quitting—it’s necessary for long-term success. Taking time for myself has allowed me to reignite my passion, refocus on my mission, and move forward with a clearer mindset. This lesson has shaped how I approach challenges, ensuring that I prioritize both my personal well-being and professional growth.
How do you navigate moments of burnout or overwhelm?
Navigating moments of burnout or overwhelm requires a combination of self-care, strategic planning, and staying connected to my purpose. In the financial industry, especially when educating individuals about indexed accounts and living benefits, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the responsibility of helping people secure their financial future. One of the key strategies I use is prioritization and delegation. I focus on what’s most impactful and delegate tasks when possible, ensuring I don’t stretch myself too thin. I also set realistic goals and celebrate small wins, which helps me stay motivated without feeling constantly pressured.
A major part of my success is the ability to educate and advocate for others. Whether through one-on-one consultations or speaking to groups**, my goal is to give people the tools they need to make informed financial decisions, so they never have to experience the kind of hardship I’ve seen too many families face.
Being a caregiver for my dad has also redefined what success means to me. It has reinforced that financial security is not just about numbers—it’s about freedom, peace of mind, and the ability to care for those we love without worry.
For me, success is about living with purpose, making a difference, and creating a legacy of empowerment. If I can look back and know that I’ve helped others secure their futures, reduce financial stress, and find hope in uncertain times, then I’ve truly succeeded.
Who or what inspired you to take the first step toward your goals?
My husband, Steve, was the driving force behind me taking the first step towards my business. He not only introduced me to one of my mentors but has been my biggest supporter every step of the way. Even in moments when my confidence wavers, he never stops believing in me—sometimes even more than I believe in myself.
His unwavering faith in my abilities, constant encouragement, and belief in my potential have pushed me forward, especially during times of doubt. Knowing I have him by my side on this journey has been invaluable, and I’m incredibly grateful for his support, guidance, and belief in my dreams.
What does true leadership mean to you, and how do you embody it?
To me, true leadership is about service, integrity, and empowerment. It’s not just about guiding others but lifting them up, leading by example, and creating a path for others to succeed—even when no one is watching. A great leader doesn’t just give directions; they inspire, educate, and support those around them to reach their full potential.
I embody leadership by staying committed to my mission of financial education, especially for veterans, first responders, women, and families who need guidance in securing their futures. I lead with transparency and compassion, ensuring that people feel empowered rather than pressured when making financial decisions.
Leadership also means resilience and accountability—recognizing when challenges arise, learning from setbacks, and continuing to push forward. As a caregiver for my dad, I’ve learned firsthand how important it is to show up with strength, patience, and adaptability, even in difficult times. Most importantly, I believe true leadership is about paying it forward—mentoring others, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for those who come after me. Whether through educational workshops, one-on-one guidance, or simply being a supportive voice, I strive to lead in a way that leaves a lasting impact on the lives of others.
Can you share a moment when you wanted to quit but found the strength to push forward?
Two years ago, I faced a moment that nearly made me quit. My niece and her husband were in a terrible car accident, and tragically, he didn’t survive. He was only 33, leaving behind his wife—just 32 years old—and their five children, the youngest only two months old.
For the first time in my financial career, I felt like I had failed. If I had been able to educate them earlier about the importance of having more than just a $50,000 life insurance policy through work, maybe things would have been different. That amount barely covered his funeral expenses, leaving my niece to work two jobs while raising five children on her own. The weight of that realization was overwhelming, making me question whether I was truly making a difference and if I was on the right career path.
But in that moment of doubt, I found my strength. Instead of quitting, I made a commitment to educate and empower as many families as possible, ensuring they never have to face the same devastating financial burden. This experience reinforced why I do what I do: helping people prepare for the unexpected, protecting their families, and securing their financial futures. It’s no longer just a career for me—it’s a mission.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way but wouldn’t trade?
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned but wouldn’t trade is to not compare my journey to others and to never quit. I recently faced a setback when I took on a part-time job, unknowingly shifting my focus away from growing my business. In the process of juggling too many responsibilities, I burned out. Life happened, and before I even realized it, I had unintentionally put my dream on hold.
This experience taught me the importance of balance, self-awareness, and staying intentional about my goals. I now understand that progress doesn’t always look the same for everyone, and stepping back to reenergize isn’t quitting—it’s necessary for long-term success. Taking time for myself has allowed me to reignite my passion, refocus on my mission, and move forward with a clearer mindset. This lesson has shaped how I approach challenges, ensuring that I prioritize both my personal well-being and professional growth.
How do you navigate moments of burnout or overwhelm?
Navigating moments of burnout or overwhelm requires a combination of self-care, strategic planning, and staying connected to my purpose. In the financial industry, especially when educating individuals about indexed accounts and living benefits, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the responsibility of helping people secure their financial future. One of the key strategies I use is prioritization and delegation. I focus on what’s most impactful and delegate tasks when possible, ensuring I don’t stretch myself too thin. I also set realistic goals and celebrate small wins, which helps me stay motivated without feeling constantly pressured.
Another crucial factor is self-care and setting boundaries. I take time to reset by engaging in activities that recharge me—whether it’s spending time with family, traveling, or simply disconnecting for a bit. This allows me to return to my work with renewed energy and focus.
Additionally, I remind myself why I started—helping people understand financial security and providing them with the tools to protect themselves and their families. Seeing the impact of my work, whether it’s a veteran gaining financial confidence, a first responder securing their future, or a woman taking control of her financial well-being, keeps me inspired and pushes me through challenging moments. Finally, I rely on a strong support network, surrounding myself with like-minded professionals and mentors who provide guidance and encouragement. Having a community to share experiences with makes a significant difference in overcoming burnout and staying committed to my mission.
How do you manage business finances and maintain stability?
Financial stability in business isn’t just about making money, it’s about managing it wisely and making strategic decisions that create long-term growth. As an entrepreneur in the financial industry, I’ve learned that success isn’t just about working hard; it’s about working smart and keeping finances in check.
Treat My Business Like an Asset, Not a Job– I don’t just focus on short-term income; I build sustainable revenue streams that allow me to create long-term wealth and financial freedom.
Another significant challenge is helping individuals understand the importance of living benefits. Many assume that life insurance is only for after death, but modern policies provide access to funds in the event of a terminal illness, critical illness, chronic condition, or disability. To address this, I emphasize real-life scenarios where living benefits have provided much-needed financial relief, giving families peace of mind in difficult times.
Control Expenses and Maximize Profits– It’s not just about how much money comes in, but how much stays. I focus on minimizing unnecessary costs while investing in areas that drive growth.
Cash Flow is King – I ensure that revenue consistently exceeds expenses and that I have a financial cushion for unexpected challenges.
Scale Smartly– Growth is important, but only when done strategically. I reinvest wisely in my business, making sure that every dollar spent leads to a higher return on investment.
Stay Adaptable and Financially Educated – Markets shift, opportunities change, and financial strategies must evolve. I continuously educate myself, adjust my strategies, and stay ahead of financial trends to keep my business thriving.
Build a Legacy, Not Just a Business – True success isn’t just about financial gain—it’s about creating a business that sustains itself, helps others, and leaves a lasting impact.
For me, financial stability isn’t about playing it safe, it’s about being strategic, intentional, and always looking ahead. The goal isn’t just to survive, it’s to thrive, scale, and build lasting wealth.
What legacy do you want to leave behind?
As an entrepreneur in the financial industry who focuses on education and creating generational wealth, the best legacy I can leave behind is one of security, empowerment, and lasting impact—not just for my own family but for the countless others I’ve helped along the way.
My journey has been built on resilience, sacrifice, and the unwavering drive to create a better future. I know firsthand what it means to work hard, push through challenges, and build a life from the ground up. That’s why my passion lies in educating and empowering others, ensuring they have the financial protection and knowledge they need to not just survive, but truly thrive. At the end of the day, my legacy is about changing lives, protecting futures, and making sure people don’t just hope for a better tomorrow, but actually have a plan in place to achieve it. That, to me, is the most valuable impact I can leave behind.
How do you spend your time?
As an entrepreneur in the financial industry, I spend most of my time building meaningful relationships and empowering others through financial education. Connecting with people, whether through networking, client consultations, or speaking engagements—is at the heart of what I do. I believe that trust, authenticity, and education are the foundation of success, and I strive to create lasting impact by helping individuals and families make informed financial decisions. Beyond working with clients, I dedicate time to collaborating with colleagues, learning from mentors, and continuously growing both personally and professionally. Every day presents an opportunity to lead, serve, and expand my reach, ensuring that more people have access to the tools and knowledge they need to achieve financial security and peace of mind.
As you reflect on your journey, what are you most proud of and why?
As I reflect on my journey, I am most proud of the resilience and determination I had in creating a better life for my son. Having him at 17, I knew I had to provide for him, which led me to join the military at the age of 20. That decision gave me the opportunity to secure a home, an education, and a future for both of us. When I returned from basic training and technical school, I juggled two jobs while attending school to further my education. At that point, we were surviving, but not yet thriving. It took years of hard work, multiple deployments, and countless sacrifices to build the life I envisioned for him. Looking back, I’m proud of the perseverance it took to push through the challenges, and most importantly, of the example I set for my son showing him that dedication, sacrifice, and resilience can create a better future.
Tell us a little about your family and what you do for fun?
I’m married to my husband, Steve, and we have three great kids. Steve owns his own business as a general contractor, and we live on five acres, which keeps us busy with plenty of outdoor projects and activities. Our two younger children swim competitively, so that keeps us on the go as well. As a family, we love to travel and explore new places, believing that those experiences offer the best learning opportunities. When we’re not traveling, you can often find us spending summer days boating at the lake or camping and enjoying the outdoors.
Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. ~ Winston Churchill
To connect with Dannelle, visit:
stratton.mylivingbenefits.com/
