Joe shares personal insights and reflections on values, beliefs, and the principles that guide success. The discussion delves into the importance of morals, emphasising how they shape our actions and decisions. Joe also provides seven top tips for achieving success, focusing on goal-setting, maintaining a positive attitude, and building a supportive network. Additionally, he introduces a self-assessment quiz designed to help listeners evaluate their health and well-being, encouraging them to prioritise self-care. The episode concludes with an invitation to explore more resources at joeteams.com, aimed at helping veterans and entrepreneurs achieve their dreams and aspirations.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Understanding Morals and Scruples: Morals are defined as a set of beliefs about what is right and wrong, while scruples are the feelings that guide actions based on those morals. The speaker emphasises the importance of having a conscience and how education and role models shape these values.

2. Setting Clear Goals: To achieve success, it's crucial to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Breaking down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks can help maintain focus and progress.

3. Building a Supportive Network: Surrounding oneself with positive, like-minded individuals is essential for success. A supportive network can provide inspiration, accountability, and opportunities for collaboration.

4. Maintaining Discipline and Focus: Staying committed to goals, even when motivation wanes, is vital. Utilising tools like time blocking and habit trackers can help maintain focus and efficiency in achieving objectives.

5. Prioritising Health and Well-being: Taking care of one's mental and physical health is fundamental for sustainable success. Practicing self-care, managing stress, and ensuring proper rest and nutrition are key components to achieving long-term goals.

BEST MOMENTS

"I want to share with you the same process so you can do this yourself."

"Morals are a set of beliefs about what is right and wrong, and scruples are the feelings that guide actions based on morals."

"If you want to be wealthy, have a great lifestyle, be healthy as well, maybe run a great fitness program, then have a look at the friends that you have."

"Taking care of yourself is the most important thing to do. It's like being on a plane when you get the safety brief."

"I want to help 1 million veterans and business owners achieve the goals, dreams, and aspirations they deserve."

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 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.

Joe takes a solo approach to discuss the concept of Blue Monday, the third Monday in January, often labeled as the most depressing day of the year. He debunks the myth surrounding Blue Monday, explaining its origins as a PR stunt and emphasizing the importance of mental health. The episode explores the power of language and how our words can shape our mindset and actions, encouraging listeners to adopt a positive communication style. Additionally, the host introduces the "buddy-buddy system," a concept rooted in military training that fosters collaboration and support among individuals. He highlights the significance of understanding one's "why" as a driving force that can lead to success, asserting that when the why is clear, the how will naturally follow. Throughout the episode, listeners are prompted to reflect on their own experiences and consider actionable steps to enhance their personal and professional lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Understanding Blue Monday: Blue Monday, often labelled as the most depressing day of the year, is a myth created for marketing purposes. It highlights the importance of recognising that feelings of sadness can vary for each individual and that mental health should be prioritised year-round.

2. Power of Language: The words we use significantly influence our mindset, emotions, and actions. Positive language can foster growth and resilience, while negative language can reinforce limiting beliefs. Clear and specific communication is essential to avoid misunderstandings and enhance collaboration.

3. Buddy-Buddy System: Implementing a buddy system in business promotes accountability, enhances learning, and fosters a supportive workplace culture. This system encourages collaboration, constructive feedback, and stronger relationships among team members.

4. Importance of 'Why' Over 'How': Focusing on the 'why' behind goals provides clarity and motivation, making it easier to determine the 'how.' A strong sense of purpose can inspire creativity and unity, leading to more effective problem-solving and collaboration.

5. Actionable Steps for Success: To achieve personal and professional goals, it's crucial to master effective communication techniques, find an accountability partner, and clearly define your 'why.' Starting each day with small, positive actions, like making your bed, can set the tone for success.

BEST MOMENTS

"Blue Monday is actually a myth. It's a false calculation based on gloomy weather, post-Christmas debt, and dissatisfaction about going back to work."

"Language is more than just a tool for communication. It's a force that shapes how we think, how we feel, and how we act."

"When your why is clear, it inspires purpose, unity, and creativity with a strong sense of purpose to how naturally follows as obstacles are overcome."

"Every day is a school day, so what we're going to be examining today is the Blue Monday myth, the power of language, the buddy-buddy system, and how your why tops your how."

"The buddy system fosters collaboration, constructive feedback, and mutual learning, transforming individual strengths into synergistic outcomes that exceed expectations."

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 Nick Smith, a former U.S. Army imagery analyst, who shares his extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood in Florida to a successful career in the military and beyond. Nick discusses the invaluable lessons he learned from his parents, the impact of 9/11 on his decision to enlist, and the skills he acquired during his military service, particularly in geospatial intelligence. He reflects on the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, including the struggle to find a job despite his qualifications, and how he ultimately found success by starting his own company. Throughout the conversation, Nick emphasises the importance of mentorship, leadership, and personal responsibility, while also advocating for greater transparency within the intelligence community. This episode is a compelling exploration of resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of community support.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Importance of Personal Responsibility: The discussion emphasises the significance of taking personal responsibility for one's actions and circumstances. The idea that "they" are not a separate entity but rather individuals who can make a difference resonates throughout the conversation.

2. Value of Family Influence: The upbringing and experiences shared highlight how strong family values and parental guidance can shape one's perspective on work ethic, resilience, and the importance of providing for loved ones.

3. Transition from Military to Civilian Life: The challenges faced when transitioning from military service to civilian employment are underscored, particularly the difficulty in finding jobs that value military experience and skills. This reflects a common struggle among veterans.

4. Role of Mentorship: The narrative illustrates the critical role of mentorship in personal and professional development. Seeking advice from those who have successfully navigated similar paths can provide valuable insights and guidance.

5. Entrepreneurial Spirit: The journey from working in a corporate environment to starting a business showcases the entrepreneurial spirit. It emphasises the importance of recognising opportunities, taking risks, and creating a company culture that prioritises people over profits.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think the biggest was just kind of... just knowing that my parents, no matter what, are going to provide, they will do whatever it takes to make sure that we're okay."

"I wanted to do something that was greater than the norm. But when 9-11 happened, that was a huge driver."

"There are a number of types of people. There's those that think about it happening, those that watch it happening, and those that make it happen."

"I think at that point I was earning a lot more money, so it was a little bit riskier, but I was actually very fortunate."

"I think the intelligence community needs to be more open; they need to be showing what they're doing and how they're doing 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 heartfelt conversation with Jeff Brown, a former military photographer whose journey is marked by resilience and creativity. Jeff shares his struggles with dyslexia and the challenges he faced in traditional education, which ultimately led him to discover his passion for photography while serving in the Navy. The discussion delves into his entrepreneurial spirit, from starting a fishing fly business as a teenager to navigating the ups and downs of running a pub. Jeff candidly recounts a dark period in his life that nearly led him to take his own life, but he emerged stronger, transforming his experiences into a successful career in photography and business. The episode emphasises the importance of pursuing one's passions, setting ambitious goals, and the power of visibility and credibility in achieving success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Embrace Your Passions: Finding and pursuing what you are passionate about can lead to greater fulfilment and success than following traditional paths that may not resonate with you.

2. Value of Support: Having supportive parents or mentors can significantly impact personal growth and self-confidence, especially for those facing challenges like dyslexia or other learning differences.

3. Resilience Through Failure: Experiencing failure, such as the collapse of a business, can lead to personal growth and new opportunities. Learning from setbacks can pave the way for future success.

4. Goal Setting and Visualization: Setting clear, ambitious goals and keeping them visible can help maintain focus and motivation. Regularly reviewing and working towards these goals can lead to significant achievements over time.

5. Building Credibility Through Visibility: Consistently showing up and providing value on social media can enhance credibility and authority, leading to more opportunities. Engaging with others and sharing insights fosters trust and connection.

BEST MOMENTS

"When you do something out of passion, something that comes from the heart, you get a lot more enjoyment and the chances are you're going to succeed."

"I look back at that now as being the best failure I've ever had in my life. I still see things happen for a reason."

"Every goal is achievable, just some goals take longer to achieve than others."

"Visibility is credibility. Credibility leads to more authority and more authority leads to more opportunity."

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 Gemma Luxton, who shares her extraordinary journey from a garrison town in Chepstow to a successful career in the RAF as a medic. Gemma reflects on her early life, the challenges she faced in school, and her determination to break free from the expectations of her hometown. She recounts her experiences in basic training, the emotional toll of working in high-pressure environments and her eventual transition to teaching and course design within the military.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Background and Early Life: Growing up in a garrison town like Chepstow, the options for young people were limited, often revolving around marrying military personnel or pursuing higher education. Gemma sought to break free from these constraints and explore different opportunities.

2. Joining the Military: A combination of a desire for travel, a lack of clear career direction, and a stubborn determination to prove others wrong led to the decision to join the Air Force at a young age. The experience in the Air Cadets helped foster a sense of camaraderie and passion for military life.

3. Basic Training Experience: Basic training was described as a transformative experience that involved rigorous physical and mental challenges. It served to break down individuals and rebuild them as committed members of the military, emphasising discipline and teamwork.

4. Emotional Challenges in Medical Roles: Working in medical roles during deployments, particularly in high-stress environments like Afghanistan and Selly Oak Hospital, brought emotional challenges. The individual learned to manage their emotions to provide care effectively, but also faced moments of vulnerability when dealing with loss.

5. Transitioning to Civilian Life: As the military career progressed, there was a growing concern about transitioning to civilian life without formal qualifications. Gemma recognised the need to leverage their skills and experiences to prepare for a future outside the military, especially during the uncertainties brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

BEST MOMENTS

"I didn't really know what else to do with my life. I had to decide what to do... I said, I'm going to join the Air Force instead. And everybody laughed at me."

"I found a lot of satisfaction in the job that I was doing. It was very rewarding... exhausting at some stages because we were at the height of the conflict."

"A leader is someone who can get somebody to do something they would not have done had you not been there."

"I need to figure out how to be a civvy. I need to find out what I'm going to do on Civvy Street, because I don't have any qualifications right now."

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 shares his extraordinary experiences while on an unclimbed peak expedition in the Jugal Mountain Range. With a focus on the military mantra of "improvise, adapt, and overcome," Joe reflects on his personal journey, including challenges he faced in his business and personal life. He outlines seven key strategies for tackling difficulties, emphasising the importance of identifying challenges, examining threats, considering available options, and asking for help. Throughout the episode, Joe's humour and insights shine through as he encourages listeners to take action, review their results, and learn from their experiences. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Improvise, Adapt, Overcome: These three principles learned in the military are essential for tackling challenges in life and business. They emphasise the importance of flexibility and resilience in the face of adversity.

2. Identify the Challenge: Recognising the strengths and weaknesses of yourself and your team is crucial for effectively addressing any obstacles. Understanding what resources you have at your disposal can help in finding solutions.

3. Examine the Threat: Assess the potential impact of challenges on you and your team. Not all perceived threats are equally significant, and understanding the real risks can help in making informed decisions.

4. Ask for Help: Seeking assistance from others is vital. Whether it's friends, family, or colleagues, reaching out for support can provide new perspectives and solutions to problems.

5. Review Results: After taking action, it's important to evaluate the outcomes. Reflecting on what worked, what didn’t, and what can be learned from the experience is key to continuous improvement and success.

BEST MOMENTS

"The first top tip to get over the difficulty is identify the challenge. Recognize the strengths and weaknesses you and or your team have at your disposal to handle the threat." 

"What it means is they can't do it. So don't let your success be governed by someone else's self-limiting beliefs."

"When you get to that point, ask for help. Even if you're not in the sticks, someone will be there to help you." 

"You may have a friend who knows a little bit more than you and might not even charge because if you say I've got no money, well guess what? If you ask for help, someone's going to give you a hand." 

"Did you get out of it what you wanted? What did you do well? What could have gone better?" 

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 Gordon Sumner, a veteran with a rich military lineage and a fascinating personal history. Gordon shares his journey from college to joining the Army during the Vietnam War, highlighting his transition from an infantryman to an Army aviator. He delves into his family's military background, tracing his ancestry back to a Revolutionary War general and discussing his connection to Native American heritage. The episode also explores Gordon's experiences during significant military operations, including his command during the invasion of Grenada, and reflects on the evolving perception of veterans in society. With humour and heartfelt anecdotes, Gordon's story exemplifies resilience, pride, and the enduring bonds formed in military service.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Military Lineage: Gordon Sumner has a rich family history of military service, tracing back to the Revolutionary War, with direct ancestors participating in every major conflict involving the United States since then.

2. Native American Heritage: Gordon discovered his Native American roots through genealogical research, which revealed a connection to the Santee tribe of South Carolina, leading to his induction and receiving a tribal name during a naming ceremony.

3. Military Career Path: Initially joining the Army as a reservist to complete his college education, Gordon transitioned to active duty and eventually became an Army aviator, flying helicopters and serving in various capacities, including command roles.

4. Vietnam War Experience: Gordon shared insights into the negative treatment of Vietnam veterans upon their return home, highlighting the societal challenges they faced and the efforts made by later generations to ensure that current veterans receive better recognition and support.

5. Grenada Operation: As a commander during the U.S. invasion of Grenada in 1983, Gordon led his unit successfully, emphasizing the importance of mission accomplishment and the safety of his soldiers, which he considers a significant achievement in his military career.

BEST MOMENTS

"I do come from a long military lineage... every major conflict that our government has been involved with since the revolution, I've got a direct descendant who served during that conflict in uniform."

"There was a big drive back in the 1800s, especially, to get rid of the American Indian... the government was really bad about treaties."

"I was about to get drafted. So the army was kind of making that choice for me."

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.

Craig Jones, MBE, shares his extraordinary journey from a young boy in Bingley, West Yorkshire, to becoming a Royal Naval officer and a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the armed forces. Craig recounts the challenges he faced in the 1980s, including being told he would never make an officer, discovering his sexuality, and navigating a military environment that was not accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals. He reflects on pivotal moments in his career, such as his experiences in Northern Ireland and the impact of the repeal of the gay ban in 2000. Craig's story highlights the importance of support, resilience, and the power of leadership in driving change, ultimately leading to a more inclusive military culture. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Craig faced significant challenges when initially rejected from the Royal Navy. Instead of giving up, he used that experience as motivation to better prepare himself and ultimately succeeded in joining the Navy.

2. Impact of Personal Identity: Craig's journey of self-discovery regarding his sexuality occurred during a time when being gay in the military was illegal. This personal struggle influenced his career and the way he navigated his professional life in a predominantly heterosexual environment.

3. Advocacy for Change: After the ban on LGBT individuals in the military was lifted, Craig became an outspoken advocate for inclusivity within the armed forces. He actively campaigned for recognition and support for LGBT personnel, leading to significant changes in policies and attitudes.

4. Leadership and Support: The support from leaders like Admiral Lord West was crucial in facilitating change within the Royal Navy. Craig's interactions with influential figures helped to create a more inclusive environment, demonstrating the importance of leadership in driving cultural shifts.

5. Successful Transition to Civilian Life: After leaving the Navy, Craig transitioned smoothly into a corporate role at Barclays, where he leveraged his military experience to promote diversity and inclusion. His ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment highlights the transferable skills gained from military service.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was a lieutenant commander on the day that the ban was lifted, and I was a lieutenant commander on the day I left the service." - Craig Jones

"I was very determined that the ban should not be faceless. It shouldn't be a policy that dare not speak its name."

"I didn't leave the armed forces as a captain or an admiral, but actually looking back, I achieved what was really, really important to me." 

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 episode of "Veterans to Success," host Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Bob Jordan, a former Navy intelligence specialist and now a pastor and author. Bob shares his extraordinary journey, beginning with the influence of his World War II veteran parents and his early aspirations in agriculture and law enforcement. He discusses his decision to enlist in the military at the age of 34, motivated by a desire to serve and gain worldly experience, particularly after the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Bob reflects on his military career, including five tours in Afghanistan, and the emotional and physical challenges he faced upon retirement. He emphasises the importance of faith, community support, and the transformative power of helping others, particularly through his nonprofit organization, Bright Future Philanthropy Corporation, which focuses on aiding vulnerable populations in Afghanistan. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Influence of Family Background: Growing up with parents who were World War II veterans instilled a strong sense of patriotism and service. This background shaped the speaker's values and aspirations throughout life.

2. Late Military Enlistment: Joining the military at the age of 34 was a significant decision influenced by the desire to serve and gain worldly experience, especially after the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

3. Transition to Civilian Life: The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging, marked by feelings of loss and the need to address unresolved emotional and physical issues. Seeking help and relying on family and faith were crucial during this period.

4. Importance of Community and Support: Engaging in programs like Celebrate Recovery and having mentors and supportive family members played a vital role in the speaker's healing and personal growth after leaving the military.

5. Commitment to Helping Others: Establishing the Bright Future Philanthropy Corporation reflects a commitment to extending humanity and providing assistance to vulnerable populations, particularly children in Afghanistan, demonstrating a desire to give back and make a positive impact.

BEST MOMENTS

"I realised that where I was in that little hamlet, there was no real future for agriculture in the degree of the scale that I was farming."

"I had my military career was I gained rank very, very quickly. I reached the top rank in the enlisted as an enlisted person, E9, which in the Navy is the master chief."

"What was the point where you thought, you know what, I'm going to join the military? And what prompted you?"

"I just wanted to be where I thought that the Lord directed me to be, and I did so unreservedly."

"I tell people this, my wife and I are very down-to-earth people. And so I say, because of our good fortune, we have everything we need, so we try to satisfy the wants of others."

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.