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.