Veterans to Success

In today's episode, Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Helen Valentino, who shares her extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood to her experiences in the military. Helen opens up about her upbringing, marked by family trauma and the struggles of growing up with undiagnosed ADHD. She recounts her decision to join the army, driven by a desire to escape her past and pursue a career in nursing. With honesty and honour, Helen reflects on her time in the military, the camaraderie she found, and the challenges she faced, including navigating a male-dominated environment. KEY TAKEAWAYS The individual experienced a difficult upbringing, including living with disabled grandparents and facing abuse from a parent, which significantly impacted their mental health and development. Despite attending an elite private school, they struggled academically due to undiagnosed ADHD, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a belief that they were "stupid" compared to peers. The decision to join the army was influenced by a desire to escape home life and a newfound interest in nursing after working as a care assistant. The military provided a structured environment that ultimately led to personal growth. The experience in the army fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork, especially during intense situations like the Gulf War, highlighting the importance of support among peers in high-pressure environments. After realising that a long-term military career was not suitable, the individual planned to pursue agency nursing and complementary therapies, indicating a desire to explore different avenues in healthcare beyond traditional nursing roles. BEST MOMENTS "I think looking back now, he probably had a lot of anger issues, a lot of unresolved trauma himself, as most of our parents do." "We didn't have Childline. There was no, you know, it was probably maybe another five or 10 years after it happened to me." "I was made to feel like I was stupid at school, really stupid." "I signed up to train as a nurse. I hadn't even contemplated the idea that there might be a war when I was in the army." "One of the things that's really special about the army is the camaraderie with your peers." 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. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In today's episode, Joe interviews Matt Pratten, an Australian veteran with a unique background. Matt shares his journey from growing up in the Sutherland Shire, influenced by his English migrant parents, to navigating the challenges of childhood bullying and finding his identity. He recounts his military aspirations, the culture shock of basic training in the Australian Army, and the pivotal moments that shaped his resilience. KEY TAKEAWAYS Matt Pratton discusses his upbringing as the son of English migrants in Australia, highlighting the challenges of cultural identity and the teasing he faced for his English roots while growing up in Sydney. He shares experiences of being bullied in school and how confronting a bully helped him gain confidence. This resilience was further developed during his military service, where he learned to push through challenges and maintain a positive attitude. Matt describes the intense culture shock he experienced during his initial military training, emphasising the importance of adapting to a new environment and the lessons learned from both successes and failures throughout his military career. His interest in languages, particularly Italian and Arabic, became a significant asset during his military service. Learning Arabic not only helped him communicate effectively during deployment but also opened opportunities for him within his platoon. Matt reflects on his journey from working in retail to joining the full-time army, illustrating the importance of finding a career that aligns with one's passions and strengths, as well as the value of mentorship in navigating career transitions. BEST MOMENTS "Growing up with two parents who grew up in Manchester, in Australia, I'd go to school and everyone would swear I'm English." "I had the ideal sort of childhood upbringing, the sort of childhood that every parent wants to give their kid." "I think probably one regret I have about childhood is I didn't nag my parents enough to get into martial arts earlier." "In times of peace, we train for war. And in times of war, we fight for peace." 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 finalising 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. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 "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." "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." "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." "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." "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 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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.