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.