In this episode of the Great Guns Podcast, James sits down with Fair Metcalfe — Army veteran, former Combat Medic, and now PhD researcher — for a powerful and fun conversation that spans military service, transition, education, and breaking down barriers around learning differences.

Fair shares her journey from joining the Army at just 16, serving on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, through to leaving service and stepping into academia — a transition that brought its own challenges and growth.

This is a conversation that goes beyond transition — it’s about confidence, communication, and ensuring people aren’t held back by something that, with the right support, can become a strength.

• Transition is not just about career change — it’s about adapting to completely new environments
• Dyslexia and learning differences are more common than many realise within the military
• Lack of awareness can lead to individuals struggling in silence
• Early support and intervention can significantly improve outcomes
• Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness
• Confidence often comes from understanding how you learn best
• Your challenges can become strengths when properly supported

• “I joined the Army at 16, just after finishing school.”
• “Ask for help early — it makes a big difference.”
• “You don’t lack ability — you just need the right support.”
• “If people understand how they learn, everything changes.”
• “You’re not the problem — the system just needs to adapt.”

Connect with Fair

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