From Athlete to Entrepreneur: How Danielle Chessman Found Purpose Through Gift Giving
In this inspiring episode of Her Layered Life, host Amanda Barker sits down with former professional basketball player and entrepreneur Danielle Chessman to unpack the layers of resilience, reinvention, and heart that define her story.
From competing at BYU and playing overseas to navigating divorce, motherhood, and entrepreneurship, Danielle’s journey is one of faith, grit, and creativity. As the founder of The Gifting Chick, she’s turned her lifelong love for thoughtful, personalized giving into a business that helps others express care and connection in meaningful ways.
Amanda and Danielle dive into:
Life lessons learned on and off the basketball court
The transition from athlete to entrepreneur
How door-to-door sales built her confidence and leadership
The heart and story behind The Gifting Chick
The power of supporting women-owned businesses
Why intentional gifting can create deeper relationships
This episode is a heartfelt reminder that every chapter—no matter how challenging—is preparing you for the next.
Highlights:
“Losing isn’t the worst thing. It’s what teaches you how to pivot and grow.”
“I wanted to be remembered—not on a grand scale, but for the way I made people feel.”
“Confidence didn’t come from basketball. It came from stepping into spaces that scared me.”
“Every gift tells a story, and connection is the real gift.”