Joe speaks with Paul Bailey, an Essex lad with a remarkable journey from a disciplined childhood to a career in the Royal Navy. Paul shares his experiences growing up as an identical twin, the challenges he faced in school, and the pivotal moments that led him to enlist just before his 18th birthday. He recounts the rigorous training at HMS Raleigh, the camaraderie and challenges of life at sea on various ships, including HMS Invincible and HMS Manchester, and his unique role in GCHQ, where he dealt with sensitive military operations. Throughout the conversation, Paul reflects on the mentors who shaped his path, the lessons learned from both supportive and difficult figures in the military, and the bittersweet nature of his experiences, ultimately leading to his decision to transition out of service. This episode highlights the profound impact of military life on personal growth and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Childhood and Upbringing: Growing up in a disciplined household in Essex, the individual shared experiences of a close bond with their twin brother and the challenges of navigating a tough environment in the early 80s, which shaped their character and resilience.

2. Influence of Mentors: Key figures, such as a music teacher and a former prison officer, played significant roles in guiding and motivating the individual to pursue a career in the military, highlighting the importance of mentorship in personal development.

3. Military Training Experience: The transition to military life at HMS Raleigh was a rude awakening, emphasising the shift from a carefree youth to a disciplined environment where personal responsibility and teamwork were paramount.

4. Career Progression and Challenges: Throughout their military career, the individual faced various challenges, including feelings of inadequacy in technical training and dealing with difficult superiors, which ultimately led to a realisation of the importance of personal growth and the impact of leadership styles.

5. Bittersweet Realisations: Experiences in the military, including participation in significant operations and the challenges of working with difficult colleagues, led to a complex relationship with military life, balancing pride in service with frustrations over leadership and workplace culture.

BEST MOMENTS

"My brother, extremely intelligent, very forward thinking, always wanted to do one better." 

"You know, the military, brilliant. You know, if you're the right face, brilliant, which luckily I was."

"I had an amazing captain, Captain Robertson. I had an amazing team." 

"You know, you're down there to do a job you're not on a vacation."

"I can't work around losers that are just, that don't want to do anything." 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/

https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer

https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/

HOST BIO

Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination.

After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families.

Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training centre and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success.