Joe engages in a compelling conversation with Tim Jones, who shares his journey from a working class childhood in Rotherham to a distinguished military career. Tim reflects on his formative years, the impact of early academic experiences on self-esteem, and the pivotal decision to join the army at 15. He recounts his time at Sandhurst, the challenges of leadership in various postings, and the importance of mentorship within the military. As they discuss the realities of military life, including the pressures of under-resourcing and the cultural shifts experienced during transition to civilian life, Tim emphasises the significance of adaptability and learning from failure. The episode offers valuable insights into the complexities of military service and the journey of reintegration into civilian society, highlighting the importance of support systems and personal resilience.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Impact of Early Experiences: Childhood experiences and formative years significantly shape an individual's self-perception and capabilities. Negative feedback during these years can lead to long-lasting self-doubt and limitations.

2. Military Training and Leadership: The military emphasises the importance of leadership through the motto "serve to lead." Effective leaders prioritise the welfare and development of their team while maintaining discipline and mission focus.

3. Cultural Transition Challenges: Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging, with individuals often feeling disconnected from their previous team-oriented environment. Preparation and a clear career path can ease this transition.

4. Learning from Poor Leadership: Negative experiences with ineffective leaders can provide valuable lessons on what not to do, shaping future leadership styles and approaches to team management.

5. Importance of Team Morale: High morale is crucial for operational success. Engaging team members in meaningful work and fostering a sense of purpose can lead to improved performance and cohesion, even in challenging circumstances.

BEST MOMENTS

1. "I was just a normal school kid growing up in Rotherham... but I was one of those standard kids that got told to eat your dinner because there are children starving in Africa."

2. "My sister is a lot brighter than me, but she got told by one of the teachers that she was stupid... it really impacted my sister and still does to this day."

3. "I think we've got a very, very rich history, military history, haven't we? From the Navy, the Marines, Army, and subsequently the RAF."

4. "What I find out often is that they could be 40, 50, 60 years old and they're basing their performance ability on what they were told when they were seven."

5. "You know, the old adage of the British military, adapt, improvise, overcome... fail, learn, fail, learn."

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 center 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.

Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Marc Poli, who shares his extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood in Leith, Scotland, to a successful career after serving in the military. Marc recounts the trials he faced during his parents' separation, his brief stint in foster care, and the independence he gained at a young age. He reflects on his decision to join the army, motivated by a desire to escape his past and seek camaraderie. Throughout the discussion, Marc candidly addresses the realities of military life, including the challenges of training and the impact of bullying within the ranks. He also highlights the importance of resilience, mentorship, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in his career, ultimately leading to his current role as a business owner in the recruitment industry. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the significance of community and support in overcoming life's obstacles.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Resilience in Adversity: The journey from a challenging childhood, including parental separation and foster care, highlights the importance of resilience. Choosing to live with his father despite difficulties shaped a strong sense of independence.

2. Influence of Family Legacy: A desire to follow in the footsteps of a military grandfather motivated a commitment to join the army, showcasing how family history can inspire personal aspirations and career choices.

3. Overcoming Doubts: Facing skepticism from his father about his ability to succeed in the military, the determination to prove him wrong became a driving force, illustrating how external doubts can fuel personal ambition.

4. Value of Mentorship: The significance of having supportive figures in life is emphasized, as mentors can provide guidance and opportunities that lead to personal and professional growth.

5. Perspective on Failure: Viewing setbacks as learning experiences rather than failures fosters a positive mindset. The belief that "what's meant to be will be" encourages resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was the only one of 12 grandchildren or so that I actually joined, and none of his sons joined either. So it was a bit of an achievement for me to do that for him."

"I don't really see anything as a failure if I'm honest with you, because at the end of the day what's meant to be will be." 

"Manners cost nothing. Good karma is a positive thing in life, and if you're good with people, people will receptively be good back to you." 

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 center 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.

Joe speaks with Michael "Mike" Robertson, who shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood in Scotland to a successful military career and beyond. Mike recounts his early experiences in care, his decision to join the Army at 17, and the lessons learned during his training and deployments, including time in Northern Ireland and Iraq. He candidly discusses the impact of his son's autism on his family life and the challenges he faced during his marriage. After leaving the military, Mike navigated personal struggles and ultimately found a new path in the Military Provost Guard Service. Now, alongside his wife Hayley, he runs Property Springs Group, a business dedicated to helping military personnel and veterans secure housing. This episode highlights the importance of resilience, support networks, and the transferable skills gained from military service.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Resilience Through Adversity: Michael highlights the importance of resilience in overcoming a challenging childhood and navigating various life obstacles, including family issues and career transitions.

2. Value of Support Networks: A strong support network was crucial for Michael for personal growth and recovery. Having trusted individuals who can provide honest feedback and encouragement can significantly impact one's ability to cope with life's challenges.

3. Transferable Skills from Military to Civilian Life: The skills Michael learnt in the military, such as punctuality, communication, and discipline, are highly transferable to civilian jobs. It's essential to recognise and leverage these skills when transitioning to civilian life.

4. Importance of Planning for Transition: Before leaving the military, it's important to have a clear plan and end goal. Many individuals struggle after leaving due to a lack of direction, so preparing for the transition can lead to better outcomes.

5. Entrepreneurial Ventures: Michael's experience shows that entrepreneurship can be a fulfilling path after military service, allowing for the application of military skills in a new context.

BEST MOMENTS

"I thought, why me? Why am I not in a loving home, why am I in a care system?" 

"If I knew now what I didn't know then, I'd have said, let's get a trade." 

"I was actually excited because I thought, oh yeah, I'm going to join the army." 

"If you haven't got that, then you're not going to learn and push on." 

"Before you even decide that I'm getting out, think what have I got to take with me and what can I do with it." 

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 center 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.

Joe engages in a candid conversation with Carl Simpson, who shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to a successful career in the military and beyond. Carl opens up about his experiences growing up in a broken home, facing bullying, and turning to drugs as a means of escape. After a life-changing moment during a drug-induced episode, he decided to join the military, where he served multiple tours in Afghanistan and Iraq as part of the RAF Regiment. Throughout the discussion, Carl emphasizes the importance of mindset, personal development, and the power of community support. He reflects on his transition from military life to becoming a mindset coach, highlighting the significance of self-belief, consistency, and the impact of one's environment on mental health. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Overcoming Adversity: The journey from a challenging childhood, including bullying and family issues, to a successful military career, highlights the importance of resilience and the ability to rise above difficult circumstances.

2. Mindset and Self-Belief: Developing a strong mindset is crucial for success. The importance of self-belief and the ability to reframe negative thoughts into positive actions is emphasised, showcasing that personal growth often stems from overcoming self-imposed limitations.

3. Value of Experience: The transition from military service to coaching and mentoring illustrates how experiences, both good and bad, can shape one's career path and lead to new opportunities, such as becoming a mindset coach.

4. Importance of Community: Surrounding oneself with a positive and supportive network is essential for mental health and personal development. The influence of peers can significantly impact one's mindset and overall success.

5. Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Engaging in ongoing education, such as pursuing qualifications in nutrition and personal training, demonstrates the value of lifelong learning and adapting to new challenges in order to achieve personal and professional goals.

BEST MOMENTS

"I came down from like a weird high and I was just like, I'm done. I need to get out. I need to get out of Dodge and that's why I joined the military."

"I was sold a dream that I'd be parachuting, would be rocking around in with like machine guns on tour, you know, doing stuff that I wanted to do."

"Being bullied can really knock you for six, can't it? And then maybe, how much would you agree with the fact that you were looking to be accepted, which meant you went into the drug fraternity?"

"I think most people put self-imposed glass ceilings over their head and think, I can't do this. How'd you know? You've not tried."

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 center 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.

Joe engages in a candid conversation with Paul Wilcock, affectionately known as Wilco. The discussion delves into Wilco's early life, highlighting his passion for golf and the dynamics of growing up with three brothers in a hardworking family. As the conversation unfolds, Wilco shares his journey from a YTS in butchery to pursuing his dream of becoming a professional golfer, only to pivot towards a career in the military police after facing setbacks in his initial attempts to join the police force. The episode captures Paul Wilcock's resilience and determination, illustrating how he navigated challenges, embraced opportunities, and ultimately transitioned from military service to a fulfilling career in law enforcement. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, his story serves as an inspiring testament to perseverance and the pursuit of one's dreams.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Early Passion for Golf: Paul had a deep passion for golf from a young age, inspired by famous golfers like Nick Faldo and Seve Ballesteros. This passion led him to work as a club professional before he decided to pursue a different career path.

2. Military Career and Training: He joined the Royal Military Police (RMP) after an initial setback in trying to join the civilian police force. His training was rigorous, involving both basic military training and specialised police duties. He quickly adapted to the military lifestyle, despite initial challenges like cleaning toilets and adjusting to barrack life.

3. Service in Germany: Paul was posted to Germany, where he served in Dusseldorf. He appreciated the strong sense of community within the military and the opportunity to interact with a diverse group of people, including German civilians who shared their wartime experiences.

4. Transition to Civilian Police: After serving in the military, he transitioned to a career in the civilian police force. He faced initial rejections but persisted, eventually joining Sussex Police. His military background provided him with valuable skills and experiences that helped him in his new role.

5. Career Progression and Challenges: Throughout his career, Paul faced various challenges, including studying for exams and adapting to different roles within the police force. Despite these challenges, he remained motivated and dedicated, ultimately achieving his goal of becoming a detective and working on significant national operations.

BEST MOMENTS

"I wanted to become a bacteriologist... but what shattered all that was receiving a letter from the professional golfer there where I used to be a member."

"I was gutted. It was the way they did it... being told I wasn't good enough, it really hurt."

I think I’m going to give that a go. Because if I can join and show a potential employer... maybe that's enough to convince them to let me in."

 "I was realising a dream that I probably thought really deep down I'd never ever get there."

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 center 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.

Joe interviews Joakim Walstad, a former officer in the Norwegian Army who shares his extraordinary journey from military service to personal development coaching. Joakim reflects on his upbringing in a military family, the challenges he faced during his ten years in the armed forces, and the imposter syndrome that led him to resign from his position. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the value of flexibility in achieving personal goals, and how he has transformed his experiences into a passion for helping others realise their potential. Listeners will gain insights into overcoming self-doubt, embracing responsibility, and navigating life's transitions, all while discovering the power of coaching and personal growth.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Influence of Family Background: Growing up in a family with a military background, including a father and grandfather who served, inspired a desire to join the armed forces and pursue a career in the military.

2. Benefits of Military Service: The opportunity to combine mandatory military service with a bachelor's degree and officer's leadership education was seen as a valuable way to grow as a leader and gain recognition in Norway.

3. Challenges of Imposter Syndrome: Despite initial excitement and growth in the military, feelings of inadequacy and fear of judgment led to a struggle with imposter syndrome, ultimately resulting in a decision to leave the military after over a decade of service.

4. Importance of Coaching and Mentorship: Engaging with a coach helped to uncover limiting beliefs and patterns, leading to personal growth and a desire to help others realise their potential through coaching.

5. Flexibility and Responsibility: Emphasising the need for flexibility in life and business, the importance of taking responsibility for one's future was highlighted as a key to overcoming challenges and achieving personal goals.

BEST MOMENTS

"I became so afraid of being judged. I became so afraid of other people's opinions... it becomes like a vicious cycle. I'm sad and lonely."

 "There's no such thing as failure. Either I learn or I win."

"I realised I was meant for more... I had no joy anymore in the job."

"How can you know what courage is if you've never been fearful?"

 "It's about being able to find a way no matter what and being flexible."

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 center 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.

Joe interviews Kevin Johnson, who shares his extraordinary journey from a childhood in apartheid-era South Africa to a career in the military and beyond. Kevin reflects on his early entrepreneurial spirit, his experiences in a racially divided education system, and the challenges he faced during his national service in the police force amidst civil unrest. He recounts gripping stories from his time in the military, including counterinsurgency operations and the complexities of navigating a war-torn environment. As he transitions to civilian life, Kevin discusses the difficulties of adapting to a new career while drawing on the skills and resilience he developed in the military. This episode offers a profound insight into the impact of upbringing, societal challenges, and personal determination in shaping one's path to success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Early Entrepreneurial Spirit: From a young age, there was a strong inclination towards entrepreneurship, demonstrated by selling homemade fudge and precious stones to raise money for school charities.

2. Impact of Education and Environment: The educational experience during apartheid in South Africa was heavily influenced by the political climate, with a significant divide between English-speaking and Afrikaans-speaking communities, shaping personal and academic development.

3. Military Service as a Turning Point: Conscription into the military was a pivotal moment, leading to a career in the police force and later the army, where experiences in counterinsurgency and violent crime shaped resilience and leadership skills.

4. Transition to Civilian Life: After leaving the military, the transition to civilian life involved adapting to a new work environment, where the skills learned in the military, such as leadership and structure, were applied to succeed in the corporate world.

5. Embracing Fear and Learning from Failure: Success is framed as a choice between avoiding fear or embracing it, with a focus on strengthening the courage muscle. Dealing with failure involves quick recovery and learning from experiences to foster growth.

BEST MOMENTS

"In actual fact, I think you had to be in school for 10 years." 

"I could sense already at a very, very early age, like the entrepreneurial spirit coming in." 

"The bottom line was that, you know, we were going to go and do our job, but we weren't going to cross the line." 

"You can have guys back at the HQ that are not your own qualified men." 

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 center 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.

Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Robert James, who shares his extraordinary journey from a young boy in Plymouth to a distinguished career in the Royal Navy. Joining the military at just 15, Rob reflects on his upbringing, the challenges of early independence, and the profound impact of his father's passing shortly after the 1966 World Cup. As he navigates through his military career, including time as a submariner and later with the Royal Marines, Rob discusses the importance of preparation for civilian life, the value of soft skills, and the lessons learned from both success and failure. Now a successful entrepreneur, he emphasises the significance of continuous learning and ethical practices in business, offering insights into the transition from military to civilian life and the diverse definitions of success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Early Military Influence: Joining the military at a young age significantly shaped personal development, instilling values such as discipline, integrity, and self-reliance, which are crucial for success in both military and civilian life.

2. Importance of Preparation for Transition: Planning for life after military service is essential. Starting the transition process several years before leaving the military can lead to better outcomes and smoother integration into civilian roles.

3. Value of Soft Skills: While technical skills can be taught, soft skills such as leadership, teamwork, and effective communication are often more critical in civilian roles. These skills, honed in the military, can provide a competitive advantage in the business world.

4. Navigating Loyalty and Authority: In civilian life, it's important to balance loyalty with critical thinking. Unlike the military, where hierarchy is often accepted without question, civilian roles require individuals to challenge ideas and be more discerning about their commitments.

5. Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Success is a journey that involves ongoing learning and adaptation. Embracing challenges and setting personal and professional goals can lead to fulfilling career paths, regardless of age or previous experience.

BEST MOMENTS

"I joined the Royal Navy as an engineering apprentice... I had to grow up quite quickly, but I think I wasn't the only one."

"I thought, God, I don't even know what I'm doing next week, never mind seven years' time."

"The more preparation they give to signing off, the better they do... planning and preparation prevents poor performance."

 "I realised that I had no commercial knowledge, really... I could build an effective team to motivate people."

"Success has many ways to define itself"

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 center 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.

In this engaging podcast episode, host Joe interviews Tony Thomson, a seasoned veteran with a rich military and police background. As they delve into Tony's journey from a promising student in Cardiff to a successful career in the RAF and later the British Transport Police, listeners gain valuable insights into the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life. Tony shares his experiences of overcoming obstacles, the importance of resilience, and the transferable skills gained from his time in the military. He emphasises the significance of active listening, asking the right questions, and maintaining a positive outlook. The conversation also highlights the value of mentorship and networking, providing practical advice for veterans seeking to navigate their post-military careers successfully.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Active Listening and Questioning: Engaging in active listening and asking insightful questions are crucial skills that facilitate effective communication and understanding in both military and civilian contexts.

2. Resilience and Determination: Overcoming setbacks, such as not being accepted for a commission or facing challenges in transitioning to civilian life, requires resilience and a determination to keep pushing forward despite obstacles.

3. Transferable Skills: Skills developed in the military, such as discipline, teamwork, and communication, are highly transferable to civilian roles. These skills can significantly enhance employability and effectiveness in various industries.

4. Importance of Feedback: Seeking feedback after interviews or promotions is essential for personal growth. Understanding areas for improvement can help individuals refine their skills and increase their chances of success in future opportunities.

5. Building a Support Network: Establishing a strong network of mentors, colleagues, and friends is vital for navigating challenges and seeking guidance. This support system can provide valuable insights and encouragement during difficult times.

BEST MOMENTS

 "I thought, well, I will find another way and I will, you know, I will get and do something and be successful."

"It's about trying to develop your confidence to be able to ask the question or say yes and say no."

"All skills are transferable, everything. They might not be immediately, but things like working with people, whatever your job is, you're gonna be talking with people."

"The one thing that I found interesting that has quite often stopped them from achieving something is because they're being limited by someone else's self-limiting beliefs."

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 center 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.

Joe engages in a captivating conversation with Chris Pencer, who shares his extraordinary life journey from a happy childhood in a modest family to becoming a successful educator and director. Chris reflects on his early experiences with bullying, his passion for drama, and the pivotal decision to pursue a degree in biology instead of acting. He discusses his time in the RAF as a reservist, where he gained valuable leadership skills and a unique perspective on teamwork and responsibility. As he transitioned into teaching, Chris highlights the challenges and triumphs he faced, including the establishment of a new school in Northumberland and his involvement in various theatrical productions. Throughout the episode, Chris emphasises the importance of resilience, mentorship, and the courage to take responsibility, offering insightful advice for veterans navigating their post-military careers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Value of Family Support: A strong family foundation can significantly impact a person's upbringing and outlook on life. The speaker emphasised how their parents prioritised their children's happiness and well-being, despite financial limitations.

2. Importance of Education and Adaptability: Pursuing education, even when initially focused on a different career path, can open unexpected opportunities. The speaker transitioned from aspiring to be an actor to obtaining a degree in biology, which ultimately led to a successful teaching career.

3. Leadership and Teamwork: Experiences in the RAF taught valuable lessons about leadership, responsibility, and the importance of teamwork. The speaker learned to motivate others and take responsibility, which proved beneficial in both military and civilian roles.

4. Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Throughout their career, the speaker faced various challenges, including personal loss and professional threats. They highlighted the importance of resilience and the ability to learn from both successes and failures.

5. Creating a Positive Work Environment: The speaker advocated for a no-blame culture in organizations, focusing on learning from mistakes rather than assigning blame. This approach fosters a supportive environment that encourages growth and collaboration.

BEST MOMENTS

"I learned a lot about drama while I was there. I learned a lot about acting. I learned I was never going to be a famous actor."

"I began to understand something about the military mind and the military machine and the way that that works."

"It's about that pivotal point something in your life... it might just be a realisation that hey I've got to get stuck into this education to make sure that I do well."

"I always make sure I've got at least one backup plan. If that doesn't work, what do you do next?"

"If you're at a point where you don't know what to do, take a breath, look back at how you've got to where you are."

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 center 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.