This episode features an interview with Mark Grant Jones, a former military chaplain, as he shares his journey from the military to civilian life. Mark discusses his upbringing in a military family, his transition to becoming a Baptist minister, and his experiences serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. The episode offers valuable insights into the transition from military to civilian life and the transferable skills gained from military service.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Importance of Challenges: Mark highlights the importance of facing challenges early in life to develop coping mechanisms and resilience.

• Spirituality and Resilience: Mark emphasizes the role of spirituality in finding strength and resilience, especially in challenging situations like military operations.

• Community and Support: Mark discusses the significance of community and support in navigating life transitions, especially when leaving the military and entering civilian life.

• Intentionality and Discipline: Mark stresses the importance of being intentional, disciplined, and focused on a higher purpose to achieve success and maintain balance in life.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think it's really important. I think in terms of looking at the next step for my life, I think connecting with people, finding out what the world's like outside the military, what the challenges and opportunities are, well, that's through connecting with people, isn't it?"

"From a selfish point of view, smiling uses less muscles and it's better for you anyway. So you see, because we just smile, don't we? Because it's great. It's so fabulous to smile."

"And interestingly enough, when people are asking to connect with me on LinkedIn, I look at the CV or the profile, and if I see the ex-military, I find it slightly amusing now, because I'm looking to see whether I can guess who they serve with, because what they're describing are all the civilian skills that they learned."

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.