Veterans to Success
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Veterans to Success episodes

  • Finding Purpose in the Unfamiliar: Sheldon's Story of Resilience and Determination

    Sheldon Shelby shares his extraordinary journey from a typical upbringing in the Caribbean to overcoming numerous challenges on his path to joining the British Army. Sheldon reflects on his early life in Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada, discussing the impact of his parents' separation and his determination to succeed academically despite not considering himself naturally gifted. He recounts the struggles he faced when moving to the UK, including homelessness and navigating the complexities of immigration, before ultimately finding his way into the military. Throughout the conversation, Sheldon emphasises the importance of preparation, resilience, and taking ownership of one's actions, sharing valuable insights from his experiences in the Army, including his commendations for saving a civilian's life. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the lessons learned from both successes and failures.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    1. Resilience and Determination: The journey from the Caribbean to the UK involved numerous challenges, including homelessness and job instability. Despite these obstacles, there was a strong commitment to not give up and to keep pushing forward towards a better future.

    2. Value of Education: Although not initially seen as academically inclined, Sheldon realised the importance of formal education. Pursuing higher education and certifications, particularly in cybersecurity, became a priority to enhance his career opportunities.

    3. Importance of Preparation: Preparing for life after the military was crucial for Sheldon. The approach of always having an exit strategy, akin to military training, was  a necessary mindset for transitioning to civilian life.

    4. Community and Support: Building a network of supportive peers and mentors is essential. Sharing aspirations and seeking guidance from those who understand the journey can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

    5. Real-Life Experiences Shape Success: Sheldon underscored that success is often accompanied by personal challenges and failures. Sharing these experiences can help others navigate their own difficulties and understand that setbacks are a part of the journey.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "I was always scared of failure, but I'm equally scared of not trying."

     "I believe it's very important to have something to get you in the door... to maintain it and have it successful, I do need that formal education."

    "Success is a lot of challenges that a lot of people wouldn't tell you because it's personal to them."

     "It's about getting it right. And then that continued in the military, because, you know, when your knowledge is low, your anxiety is high."

    "I do not want to be doing this forever... anybody tell you they want to do... send them to me. I think they're lying."

    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.

    1 hr 3 min
  • Service and Sacrifice: Niall Ogilvy's Extraordinary Military Career

    Niall Ogilvy shares his extraordinary journey from a straightforward upbringing in Edinburgh to a diverse military career that began in the Royal Navy and transitioned to the British Army. Neil recounts his formative years at a boarding school in the far north of Scotland, where he developed a passion for outdoor activities and service to others. His experiences aboard the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal ignited his desire to join the Navy, leading to a series of fascinating roles, including time spent in Brazil and Northern Ireland. As he navigated the complexities of military life, Neil's story highlights the challenges and triumphs of adapting to different environments, the importance of teamwork, and the evolution of technology in military operations. 

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    1. Early Life and Education: Niall had a straightforward upbringing in Edinburgh, where he developed interests in artistic activities and sports. His transition to a boarding school in the far north of Scotland provided him with numerous opportunities for personal growth and outdoor activities.

    2. Military Inspiration: A pivotal moment that influenced the decision to join the military was a day spent on an aircraft carrier, where the coordination and teamwork involved in launching and recovering aircraft left a lasting impression. This experience highlighted the importance of service and teamwork.

    3. Transition from Navy to Army: After a brief career in the Navy, which included various training and operational experiences, Niall sought a more fulfilling role and transitioned to the Army. This change was motivated by a desire for greater responsibility and a more engaging career path.

    4. Unique Experiences in Mozambique: While serving in Mozambique, Niall trained the local army on Soviet weapons, which provided a unique opportunity to work closely with trainees without the usual interruptions of military duties. This experience highlighted the differences in training environments and the capabilities of the trainees.

    5. Pioneering IT in Military Operations: Niall played a significant role in developing an IT system for military operations in Northern Ireland, which was a novel concept at the time. This initiative aimed to improve command and control capabilities and was part of a broader strategy to enhance anti-terrorist efforts following significant political events.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "I was given a huge amount of opportunity there, both sporting and outdoor activities, including hill walking. I learned to sail there." 

    "The sight, the sounds, and when you're standing on that flight deck, the ship's doing 28 knots into the wind." 

    "I was the last uniformed Gordon Highlander to march down Union Street, exercising our freedom of the city." 

    "We were spearheading what is now a pretty complex and comprehensive IT cybersecurity system that the military's got." 

    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.

    1 hr 21 min
  • Leadership Lessons: From Combat Deployments to Corporate Success

    This episode features a conversation between Joe, and guest J.J. Hardy, who shares his journey from a rough childhood to joining the military and transitioning to civilian life. J.J. discusses the challenges he faced in finding employment after leaving the military and the importance of networking and building strong social and business networks. He emphasises the value of learning from failures and the mindset needed to overcome obstacles. The episode delves into the significance of leadership, mentorship, and the impact of military training on personal and professional growth. 

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Building a strong social and business network is crucial for success after transitioning from the military.

    • Failure should be viewed as a learning opportunity, with the acronym "fail" standing for "first attempt in learning."

    • Surrounding oneself with the right people, who align with personal goals and values, is essential for growth and success.

    • Embracing failure and learning from it is a key aspect of personal and professional development.

    • Transitioning from the military to civilian life may present challenges, but perseverance, networking, and adaptability are key to overcoming obstacles.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "I was really very normal. However, I came from a very rough background where my parents didn't really have a whole lot of money." 

    "The military mindset is not that way at all. The military mindset is, you know what? We got halfway up the hill, we almost lost a couple guys, we regrouped, we made another plan, and then we stormed that son of a gun the next time." 

    "I think that depending on how long you spend in the military, I did seven and a half in the regs and seven and a half in the TA. And actually, I suppose, and I think I've mentioned this to you before, I'm unemployable 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.

    1 hr 1 min
  • Embracing Community Engagement: A Story of Service and Growth

    Joe talks with Chalky, a former Air Force member who shares his journey from growing up in Paisley to his various career transitions. Chalky discusses his upbringing in a council estate, joining the Air Force, and his experiences as aircrew. He shares his leadership roles in the Encyclopedia Britannica business and Middlewich Town Council, highlighting the challenges and successes he faced. The episode showcases Chorky's transition from military life to civilian roles, emphasising his involvement in community initiatives and local governance. Through anecdotes and reflections, Chalky provides insights into personal development, leadership styles, and the importance of taking responsibility in one's life.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Chalky's upbringing in a council estate in Paisley, Scotland, shaped his early life experiences and perspective on wealth.

    • Transitioning from the military to civilian life, he faced challenges in finding structure and success in his career, leading to personal and financial struggles.

    • In leadership roles, the speaker learned the importance of balancing autocratic and democratic styles, adapting to different team dynamics and situations.

    • Involvement in the community through local councils provided Chalky with rewarding experiences and opportunities to contribute to the development of his town.

    • The speaker's diverse experiences, from military service to community involvement, shaped his personal growth and leadership skills, highlighting the importance of adaptability and resilience in navigating life's challenges.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "I grew up in a council estate. And like a lot of people, I didn't realise it was poor."

    "I visualized being able to fly. But in hindsight, I didn't actually visualise myself in the pilot seat."

    "I was very fortunate that part of that Airman Aircrew initial training course, we were taught leadership."

    "I remember that time specifically in history, 1993. Because by that time, I was an independent financial advisor." 

    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.

    1 hr 12 min
  • Navigating Loss and Adversity: Kevin Wright's Path to the Military

    This episode features an interview with Kevin Wright, a former Navy officer with a diverse and adventurous career in diving and military operations. Kevin shares his journey from a challenging childhood to joining the Navy and becoming a clearance diver and saturation diving officer. He recounts his experiences working with the US Navy Experimental Diving Unit, likening it to an underwater NASA. Kevin's story showcases the importance of mentorship, resilience, and making pivotal decisions that shape one's path in life.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Childhood and Family Background: Kevin Wright grew up in a working-class family in the post-war era, facing challenges such as his mother's battle with cancer at a young age. Despite the hardships, his parents worked hard to provide for their family, instilling in Kevin a love for reading and learning.

    • Education and Career Choices: Kevin's journey from wanting to be a theatrical designer to joining the Navy showcases the impact of family expectations and personal aspirations. His decision to join the military led to a fulfilling career that included diverse experiences such as becoming a clearance diver and saturation diving officer.

    • Resilience and Adaptability: Kevin's ability to adapt to challenging situations, such as his mother's passing and the rigorous training involved in diving, highlights his resilience and determination. These experiences shaped his character and prepared him for the demanding roles he undertook in the military.

    • Mentorship and Learning: Throughout his military career, Kevin emphasises the importance of mentorship and learning from experienced individuals. The guidance and support he received from senior rates and colleagues played a significant role in his growth and success in various roles, including as a diving officer.

    • Opportunities and Growth: Kevin's experiences working with the US Navy's Experimental Diving Unit provided him with unique opportunities for professional growth and development. The exposure to cutting-edge technologies and training programs expanded his skills and knowledge, contributing to his success in the field of diving and underwater operations.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "I grew up in what was I suppose by today's standards quite a poor working class family." 

    "I felt like I was coming home really, frankly." 

    "I remember going through stuff with the Marines later on, and to be honest, they were honest with me." 

    "I learned quite early on, I've had massive successes in life, and I've also had some pretty disastrous experiences."

    "The time, capital, and skills resources that you've got available are phenomenal." 

    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.

    1 hr 45 min
  • From Gambling to the Navy: Andy Gallie's Struggle and Triumph

    Joe is joined by Andy Gallie, a former military member, sharing his extraordinary story of battling gambling addiction and its impact on his life. Andy opens up about his early struggles with gambling, leading to theft and fraud, and the detrimental effects it had on his relationships, including his marriages. He discusses the challenges he faced during his transition from the military to civilian life, highlighting the difficulties of finding employment and coping with the loss of camaraderie. Andy also reflects on his self-destructive behaviours, including excessive drinking and gambling, and the toll it took on his mental health and relationships. 

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Struggles with Gambling Addiction: Andy shares a candid account of their struggles with gambling addiction from a young age, highlighting the impact it had on their life and relationships.

    • Challenges of Transitioning from the Military: The difficulties faced during the transition from military life to civilian life are discussed, including loss of camaraderie, financial challenges, and a sense of failure.

    • Impact on Relationships: Andy reflects on how their addictive behaviours, including gambling and drinking, affected their marriages and relationships, leading to emotional and financial strain.

    • Coping with Failure: Andy discusses their tendency to catastrophise failure and the impact it had on their self-esteem and decision-making, leading to further challenges in personal and professional life.

    • Awareness of Support Services: The importance of raising awareness about available support services for individuals struggling with addiction, mental health issues, and transitioning from the military is emphasised throughout the conversation.

    BEST MOMENTS

     "I think the piece that it gave me. So, you know, that's within the family and sort of, you know, it crammed all the arguments, but it also, for me, I've always found that my head is so, so busy."

     "Money to me was only ever a tool to be able to get my buzz. It was only ever the substance almost that I'm then putting into a machine rather than into my body."

    "I think the reality was quite often I would be drinking to drown my sorrows or I'd be drinking to celebrate a win."

    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.

    1 hr 20 min
  • Finding Strength in Faith: A Chaplain's Perspective on Resilience

    This episode features an interview with Mark Grant Jones, a former military chaplain, as he shares his journey from the military to civilian life. Mark discusses his upbringing in a military family, his transition to becoming a Baptist minister, and his experiences serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. The episode offers valuable insights into the transition from military to civilian life and the transferable skills gained from military service.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Importance of Challenges: Mark highlights the importance of facing challenges early in life to develop coping mechanisms and resilience.

    • Spirituality and Resilience: Mark emphasizes the role of spirituality in finding strength and resilience, especially in challenging situations like military operations.

    • Community and Support: Mark discusses the significance of community and support in navigating life transitions, especially when leaving the military and entering civilian life.

    • Intentionality and Discipline: Mark stresses the importance of being intentional, disciplined, and focused on a higher purpose to achieve success and maintain balance in life.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "I think it's really important. I think in terms of looking at the next step for my life, I think connecting with people, finding out what the world's like outside the military, what the challenges and opportunities are, well, that's through connecting with people, isn't it?"

    "From a selfish point of view, smiling uses less muscles and it's better for you anyway. So you see, because we just smile, don't we? Because it's great. It's so fabulous to smile."

    "And interestingly enough, when people are asking to connect with me on LinkedIn, I look at the CV or the profile, and if I see the ex-military, I find it slightly amusing now, because I'm looking to see whether I can guess who they serve with, because what they're describing are all the civilian skills that they learned."

    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.

    58 min
  • Overcoming Failure: Gina Atkinson's Resilience in Scotland 300 Challenge

    This episode features an engaging interview with Gina Atkinson, a former military professional with a diverse and adventurous background. Gina shares her experiences before, during, and after her military career, highlighting her journey from the army cadets to specialised roles in communications and close protection. She discusses the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, including working in a car park before finding success in the private security sector. Gina also opens up about a personal failure during a challenging endurance event and the importance of learning from setbacks.  Gina's insights on loneliness, mental health, and building social networks post-military offer valuable perspectives for listeners navigating similar transitions.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Building a strong social and business network before and after leaving the military is crucial for a successful transition to civilian life.

    • Failure should be viewed as a learning opportunity, and it's only considered a true failure if one gives up without learning from it.

    • Loneliness can be felt even in bustling urban areas, highlighting the importance of meaningful interactions and connections.

    • Mitigating risks and maintaining layers of security are essential in close protection work to ensure the safety of the client.

    • Embracing challenges and pushing through setbacks, such as injuries during physical challenges, can lead to personal growth and eventual success.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "I was doing it to highlight mental health issues and loneliness, and anyone who knows me knows I'm quite a social animal."

    "I did continue the miles in a sling in my local town. So I did the miles because people had sponsored me."

    "I think the only thing with that is probably the outer, you know, you've got layers of security, haven't 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.

    1 hr 8 min
  • Embracing Failure and Success: Insights from a Former Air Force Commander

    This episode features an interview with Andy Fryer, a former Air Force officer, discussing his remarkable career journey. Andy shares insights into his transition from civilian life to the military, highlighting his passion for aircraft and the pivotal moments that led him to join the Air Force. The episode explores Andy's experiences at various military posts, including commanding roles in Kandahar and SHAPE, showcasing his leadership skills and strategic thinking. As Andy navigates the transition to civilian life post-retirement, he candidly shares his challenges and reflections on the value of experience and academic qualifications in shaping one's career path.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Importance of a positive mindset and attitude towards failure

    • Value of experience and academic qualifications in personal and professional growth

    • Recognition of the need for coaching and mentoring in career development

    • Embracing failure as an opportunity to learn and grow

    • Transitioning leadership styles based on organizational size and span of control

    BEST MOMENTS

    "I think there is a tipping point with leadership. And when you realize that you have to lead in a different way if you're going to still be effective." 

    "I think it's about mindset. It's about having a positive mindset, about seeing the glass as always half full." 

    "I went through it solo. I had the Career Transition Partnership to support me, but that was really about CV writing and increasing confidence." 

    "I think it's important that lots of things are pulled out from your experience." 

    "I think it's important to differentiate between coaching and mentoring. Coaching culturally wasn't really embedded, at least in my experience in the military during my time." 

    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.

    1 hr 14 min
  • How I Got Here: A Veteran's Path to Personal and Professional Growth

      Joe reflects on his journey from leaving the military to becoming a successful financial advisor and coach. He shares his stories of overcoming challenges, including a life-threatening accident and a career transition. Joe discusses his passion for helping veterans and business owners achieve their goals and aspirations. He highlights the development of his Pathfinder Ultimate Success System and the resources available in his membership site. 

      KEY TAKEAWAYS

      • Joe has a diverse background, including military service, financial advising, and coaching.

      • He developed a passion for helping veterans and business owners through coaching and training programs.

      • Joe emphasises the importance of leadership in guiding individuals to achieve their goals.

      • He offers a comprehensive membership site with resources, including podcast recordings and business cheat sheets.

      • Joe's ultimate success system, the Pathfinder, is designed to help individuals achieve their dreams and aspirations.

      BEST MOMENTS

      "I'm really chuffed to be able to have brought you episodes of heroism, extraordinary stories and absolutely breathtaking experiences of my guests."

      "I'm really proud to have seen through a year of podcasting, because guess what, guys, it's not easy."

      "I was only chatting to someone. In fact, Chalky, I'll be chatting. He'll be on the podcast soon."

      "I've written the Pathfinder Ultimate Success System, which is a program that helps you get where you want to be."

      "You get access to the transformer business network where you can come along as my guest up to two times at my expense."

      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.

      52 min

    About Veterans to Success

    From the publisher's feed

    Welcome to "Veterans to Success" with your host, Joe O'Connor. This podcast is a must-listen for military veterans and ambitious business owners who are determined to increase their knowledge,…