In this episode of "Veterans to Success," host Joe interviews Guy Di Salvo, a former Navy medic and commando who transitioned into a successful career in the fire service. Guy shares his journey from a seemingly ordinary childhood filled with sports to joining the military at 16, where he faced challenges and ultimately found his calling as a medic. He recounts his experiences in Iraq, the rigorous training he underwent, and the camaraderie he built within the armed forces. After serving in the Navy, Guy transitioned to the fire service, where he honed his leadership skills and learned the importance of teamwork and resilience. He reflects on the lessons learned from both successes and failures throughout his career, emphasising the value of lived experience in decision-making and leadership.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Lived Experience Shapes Leadership: The importance of lived experience in leadership roles is emphasised, highlighting that real life challenges and failures provide valuable lessons that can enhance decision making and leadership skills.

2. Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life: The journey from military service to civilian roles, such as becoming a firefighter, can be challenging. Engaging in activities like sports can help ease the transition and maintain a sense of purpose.

3. Value of Teamwork and Standards: The significance of teamwork and maintaining high standards is underscored, particularly in emergency services where the stakes are high, and the team must perform effectively under pressure.

4. Learning from Failure: Failure is viewed as a critical component of growth. Analysing and learning from mistakes can lead to improved practices and better outcomes in future situations.

5. Networking and Authenticity: Building genuine relationships through face-to-face networking is considered essential for success in business. Being honest about capabilities and limitations fosters trust and collaboration.

BEST MOMENTS

"I found it really hard that year. When you're in the armed forces, you're told you're this, that, you're really great, and then you find yourself sitting on a chair, looking at elderly ladies swimming up and down."

"You went to join the military at the age of 16. You were told you weren't good enough, effectively. So you went and got a job as a Sparky for a year, and realised that if you didn't stop, you were going to kill someone or yourself."

"Your training takes over. I was a big believer in training, and we tried to make it where we were, we tried to make it as realistic as possible."

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.