Joe engages in a captivating conversation with Gordon Sumner, a veteran with a rich military lineage and a fascinating personal history. Gordon shares his journey from college to joining the Army during the Vietnam War, highlighting his transition from an infantryman to an Army aviator. He delves into his family's military background, tracing his ancestry back to a Revolutionary War general and discussing his connection to Native American heritage. The episode also explores Gordon's experiences during significant military operations, including his command during the invasion of Grenada, and reflects on the evolving perception of veterans in society. With humour and heartfelt anecdotes, Gordon's story exemplifies resilience, pride, and the enduring bonds formed in military service.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Military Lineage: Gordon Sumner has a rich family history of military service, tracing back to the Revolutionary War, with direct ancestors participating in every major conflict involving the United States since then.

2. Native American Heritage: Gordon discovered his Native American roots through genealogical research, which revealed a connection to the Santee tribe of South Carolina, leading to his induction and receiving a tribal name during a naming ceremony.

3. Military Career Path: Initially joining the Army as a reservist to complete his college education, Gordon transitioned to active duty and eventually became an Army aviator, flying helicopters and serving in various capacities, including command roles.

4. Vietnam War Experience: Gordon shared insights into the negative treatment of Vietnam veterans upon their return home, highlighting the societal challenges they faced and the efforts made by later generations to ensure that current veterans receive better recognition and support.

5. Grenada Operation: As a commander during the U.S. invasion of Grenada in 1983, Gordon led his unit successfully, emphasizing the importance of mission accomplishment and the safety of his soldiers, which he considers a significant achievement in his military career.

BEST MOMENTS

"I do come from a long military lineage... every major conflict that our government has been involved with since the revolution, I've got a direct descendant who served during that conflict in uniform."

"There was a big drive back in the 1800s, especially, to get rid of the American Indian... the government was really bad about treaties."

"I was about to get drafted. So the army was kind of making that choice for me."

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.

Craig Jones, MBE, shares his extraordinary journey from a young boy in Bingley, West Yorkshire, to becoming a Royal Naval officer and a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the armed forces. Craig recounts the challenges he faced in the 1980s, including being told he would never make an officer, discovering his sexuality, and navigating a military environment that was not accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals. He reflects on pivotal moments in his career, such as his experiences in Northern Ireland and the impact of the repeal of the gay ban in 2000. Craig's story highlights the importance of support, resilience, and the power of leadership in driving change, ultimately leading to a more inclusive military culture.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Craig faced significant challenges when initially rejected from the Royal Navy. Instead of giving up, he used that experience as motivation to better prepare himself and ultimately succeeded in joining the Navy.

2. Impact of Personal Identity: Craig's journey of self-discovery regarding his sexuality occurred during a time when being gay in the military was illegal. This personal struggle influenced his career and the way he navigated his professional life in a predominantly heterosexual environment.

3. Advocacy for Change: After the ban on LGBT individuals in the military was lifted, Craig became an outspoken advocate for inclusivity within the armed forces. He actively campaigned for recognition and support for LGBT personnel, leading to significant changes in policies and attitudes.

4. Leadership and Support: The support from leaders like Admiral Lord West was crucial in facilitating change within the Royal Navy. Craig's interactions with influential figures helped to create a more inclusive environment, demonstrating the importance of leadership in driving cultural shifts.

5. Successful Transition to Civilian Life: After leaving the Navy, Craig transitioned smoothly into a corporate role at Barclays, where he leveraged his military experience to promote diversity and inclusion. His ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment highlights the transferable skills gained from military service.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was a lieutenant commander on the day that the ban was lifted, and I was a lieutenant commander on the day I left the service." - Craig Jones

"I was very determined that the ban should not be faceless. It shouldn't be a policy that dare not speak its name."

"I didn't leave the armed forces as a captain or an admiral, but actually looking back, I achieved what was really, really important to me."

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 episode of "Veterans to Success," host Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Bob Jordan, a former Navy intelligence specialist and now a pastor and author. Bob shares his extraordinary journey, beginning with the influence of his World War II veteran parents and his early aspirations in agriculture and law enforcement. He discusses his decision to enlist in the military at the age of 34, motivated by a desire to serve and gain worldly experience, particularly after the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Bob reflects on his military career, including five tours in Afghanistan, and the emotional and physical challenges he faced upon retirement. He emphasises the importance of faith, community support, and the transformative power of helping others, particularly through his nonprofit organization, Bright Future Philanthropy Corporation, which focuses on aiding vulnerable populations in Afghanistan.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Influence of Family Background: Growing up with parents who were World War II veterans instilled a strong sense of patriotism and service. This background shaped the speaker's values and aspirations throughout life.

2. Late Military Enlistment: Joining the military at the age of 34 was a significant decision influenced by the desire to serve and gain worldly experience, especially after the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

3. Transition to Civilian Life: The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging, marked by feelings of loss and the need to address unresolved emotional and physical issues. Seeking help and relying on family and faith were crucial during this period.

4. Importance of Community and Support: Engaging in programs like Celebrate Recovery and having mentors and supportive family members played a vital role in the speaker's healing and personal growth after leaving the military.

5. Commitment to Helping Others: Establishing the Bright Future Philanthropy Corporation reflects a commitment to extending humanity and providing assistance to vulnerable populations, particularly children in Afghanistan, demonstrating a desire to give back and make a positive impact.

BEST MOMENTS

"I realised that where I was in that little hamlet, there was no real future for agriculture in the degree of the scale that I was farming."

"I had my military career was I gained rank very, very quickly. I reached the top rank in the enlisted as an enlisted person, E9, which in the Navy is the master chief."

"What was the point where you thought, you know what, I'm going to join the military? And what prompted you?"

"I just wanted to be where I thought that the Lord directed me to be, and I did so unreservedly."

"I tell people this, my wife and I are very down-to-earth people. And so I say, because of our good fortune, we have everything we need, so we try to satisfy the wants of others."

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 episode of "Veterans to Success," host Joe interviews Dr. Angela Pearson, a remarkable individual whose life journey is filled with resilience and determination. Angela shares her experiences growing up in a challenging environment, becoming a single parent at a young age, and ultimately joining the U.S. Navy. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on the struggles she faced, including a tumultuous marriage and the loss of her mother, while highlighting the importance of spirituality and empathy in overcoming adversity. Angela discusses her transition from military life to civilian careers, her work in human resources and safety management, and her current focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. With a strong belief in the power of social networks and mentorship, Angela emphasises the significance of supporting others and the lessons learned from both failure and success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Resilience Through Adversity: Overcoming significant challenges, such as becoming a single parent at a young age and dealing with a tumultuous marriage, has shaped a strong sense of resilience and determination to succeed.

2. Importance of Support Systems: Building and maintaining a strong social network is crucial for personal and professional growth. Connections can lead to unexpected opportunities, as demonstrated by a chance encounter at a convenience store that led to a job at Target.

3. Learning from Failure: Embracing failure as a learning opportunity is essential. Viewing failures as "First Attempts in Learning" allows for personal accountability and encourages experimentation to find better solutions.

4. Empathy as a Superpower: Recognising and utilising empathy as a key strength can enhance relationships and improve leadership effectiveness. Understanding others' experiences fosters a supportive environment.

5. Value of Mentorship: Having a good coach or mentor can provide invaluable guidance, helping individuals set and achieve their goals. Mentorship is important for navigating challenges and unlocking potential in both personal and professional realms.

BEST MOMENTS

"I can't raise my children in this environment. I need to find something else to do."

"I had to make another tough decision whether to keep someone in my life that wasn't there and was not contributing to helping or to let them go."

"I look at fail, and there's an acronym that I use that says first attempt in learning."

"People do it generally, but I find that veterans and guys in the military do that because when the stuff hits the fan, we just get on with it, don't we?"

"Having a strong social and business network is very crucial for unlocking opportunities, gaining knowledge and building a support system."

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.

John Riley talks about his extraordinary life experiences growing up overseas and his journey into the military and law enforcement. Growing up in various countries, including Liberia and China, John shares how his upbringing shaped his adventurous mindset and instilled a deep sense of national pride. He recounts his military service during Desert Storm, reflecting on the emotional challenges and camaraderie he experienced. Transitioning to a career in law enforcement, John discusses the transferable skills from his military background, emphasising the importance of adaptability and situational awareness. Throughout the episode, he offers insights into the realities of serving in both the military and police force, highlighting the impact of service on personal growth and community safety.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Mindset Matters: The importance of having a positive mindset is emphasised throughout the discussion. Viewing life as an adventure and being adaptable can significantly influence one's ability to cope with challenges and changes.

2. Value of Family Support: Growing up in a close-knit family provided a strong support system that helped navigate the stresses of frequent relocations and cultural changes, highlighting the critical role of family in personal development.

3. National Pride and Service: A strong sense of national pride and the desire to serve the country motivated the decision to join the military. This sense of duty was reinforced by experiences and connections made during childhood.

4. Transferable Skills: Skills learned in the military, such as situational awareness, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt and improvise, proved beneficial in a subsequent career in law enforcement, demonstrating the value of military training in civilian roles.

5. Dealing with Failure and Success: Embracing failure as a part of life and learning from it is crucial. The ability to adapt, improvise, and overcome challenges is essential for personal growth and success, as illustrated by experiences in both military and civilian life.

BEST MOMENTS

"I found life to be an adventure. And this one common theme plays out over and over in my head, your mindset. You will either succeed in life because of your mindset or it will take you down."

"I remember feeling again an enormous amount of pride of a job well done, representing the country, representing myself, representing the unit."

"I felt very, very disconnected because in the months that I was in the desert, my sense of smell and hearing had become very finely tuned."

"You need to be able to adapt, improvise, and overcome. You can't have a vapor lock. You need to be able to react and respond."

"I want to encourage everyone, especially who wears a badge, all the men and women out there, God bless you. This is an honourable profession."

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 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.

Joe interviews Sergeant Roy Lewis, who shares his extraordinary journey from a simple childhood in Highland Falls, New York, to a distinguished military career spanning 36 years. Roy discusses his initial reluctance to join the military, his experiences as a drill sergeant, and the profound impact of training young soldiers. He reflects on the cultural differences he encountered while training Iraqi soldiers in 2007 and emphasises the importance of soft skills and problem-solving abilities developed in the military. The conversation also touches on the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, the value of continuous learning, and the significance of having a supportive family. Throughout the episode, Roy's passion for service and commitment to nurturing the next generation shine through, making for an inspiring and insightful discussion.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Value of Soft Skills: Military training emphasises the development of soft skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, which are crucial for success in civilian life. These skills often go unnoticed but are essential for effective communication and collaboration.

2. Importance of Continuous Learning: Engaging in ongoing education and training is vital. Individuals are encouraged to take advantage of available courses and opportunities to enhance their skills, which can lead to career advancement and personal growth.

3. Coping with Challenges: The ability to handle failure and learn from mistakes is a key component of resilience. Emphasising the importance of addressing problems proactively rather than avoiding them fosters a mindset geared towards growth and improvement.

4. Camaraderie and Support: The military instils a strong sense of camaraderie among service members, which translates into a supportive environment. This support system is crucial for overcoming challenges and achieving collective goals, both in the military and in civilian settings.

5. Transitioning Skills to Civilian Life: The skills acquired in the military, such as discipline, respect for time, and productivity, are highly valued in the corporate world. Veterans can leverage these skills to differentiate themselves and succeed in various professional environments.

BEST MOMENTS

"I thought I had signed my life away. I thought it was over for me... not knowing that this was the best decision of my life."

"The military has changed. Nowadays, soldiers, you are your own career manager. The opportunities are out there. You just have to go get them."

"It's not about the money. It's never about the money."

"I realised that was the secret right there. Successful people are the people that are productive."

"You can't beat the human element, and it's going to always be there. You can never replace 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 heartfelt conversation with Shawn Welsh, a military intelligence veteran who served for 20 years. Sean shares his unique journey from growing up as a military brat to joining the military at the age of 28, motivated by the events of 9/11. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of his military career, including his experiences in various units and his work with explosive ordnance disposal teams. The discussion delves into the importance of resilience, the impact of military service on personal growth, and the significance of mentorship and networking in both military and civilian life. Sean also emphasises the need for early transition planning and the value of community support for veterans, highlighting his own efforts to give back through his podcast, Vet SOS, and other initiatives aimed at helping fellow veterans navigate their post-military lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Military Childhood Experience: Growing up in a military family instilled resilience and adaptability, allowing for the development of strong social skills and the ability to make friends easily despite frequent relocations.

2. Impact of 9/11: The events of September 11, 2001, served as a significant turning point, motivating a career change and a sense of duty to serve in the military, highlighting how pivotal moments can shape life decisions.

3. Transition Preparation: Starting the transition process two years before leaving the military is crucial. Utilising available resources and maintaining open communication with family can lead to a smoother transition into civilian life.

4. Value of Mentorship: Having mentors and a supportive network is essential for personal and professional growth. Building a "board of directors" for various aspects of life can provide guidance and accountability.

5. Learning from Failure: Embracing failure as a learning opportunity is vital. Analysing setbacks and using them as a foundation for growth can lead to greater success in future endeavours.

BEST MOMENTS

"For me, it was 9-11 when the World Trade Centers were hit... realised that I should probably do something a little bit more important."

"You learn from everybody. And I've had some horrible leaders, and you learn some things you don't ever want to do from those people."

"The day I got my DD 214... it was just like, what do I do now?"

"The more planning and preparation you do, then the better it's going to turn out because you've actually structured 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.