Joe engages in a candid conversation with Scott, a former RAF regiment member turned firefighter. Scott shares his journey from growing up in Glasgow to navigating the challenges of military life, including the impact of family struggles and the camaraderie he found in the forces. He reflects on his transition to civilian life, the unexpected realities of running a pub, and his eventual decision to join the fire service. Throughout the discussion, Scott emphasizes the importance of resilience, the lessons learned from failure, and the value of teamwork, drawing parallels between his military experiences and his current role as a firefighter. The episode offers a heartfelt exploration of personal growth, the search for belonging, and the significance of community support in overcoming life's challenges.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Camaraderie and Transition: Transitioning from military life to civilian life can be challenging due to the loss of camaraderie and teamwork. The importance of having a support network and maintaining connections with peers is crucial for mental well-being.

2. Career Choices and Adaptability: The journey through various careers, such as the military, running a pub, and eventually joining the fire service, highlights the importance of adaptability and being open to change. Each experience contributes to personal growth and skill development.

3. Perception vs. Reality: Initial expectations of a career, such as the fire service, may not align with reality. It's essential to approach new roles with an open mind and be willing to adjust expectations based on actual experiences.

4. Handling Failure: In the fire service, the focus is on providing the best possible chance for survival in emergencies, rather than viewing outcomes as failures. This perspective can help mitigate feelings of inadequacy and promote a more constructive approach to challenges.

5. Business Challenges: Running a small business presents unique challenges, especially for those transitioning from structured environments like the military. Learning to navigate financial aspects and seeking help when needed are vital for success in entrepreneurship.

BEST MOMENTS

"I thought you had to be like drunk, really drunk, to enjoy yourself. And I think that sort of suited a military lifestyle."

 "I was like, I can't believe the time that I want to get out. I finally found something that's brilliant."

"It's interesting that you were talking about the camaraderie because in the military, you never had a problem for long."

"We gave them the best chance to live. Without our intervention, they were definitely going to die."

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.