Joe is joined by Andy Gallie, a former military member, sharing his extraordinary story of battling gambling addiction and its impact on his life. Andy opens up about his early struggles with gambling, leading to theft and fraud, and the detrimental effects it had on his relationships, including his marriages. He discusses the challenges he faced during his transition from the military to civilian life, highlighting the difficulties of finding employment and coping with the loss of camaraderie. Andy also reflects on his self-destructive behaviours, including excessive drinking and gambling, and the toll it took on his mental health and relationships.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Struggles with Gambling Addiction: Andy shares a candid account of their struggles with gambling addiction from a young age, highlighting the impact it had on their life and relationships.

• Challenges of Transitioning from the Military: The difficulties faced during the transition from military life to civilian life are discussed, including loss of camaraderie, financial challenges, and a sense of failure.

• Impact on Relationships: Andy reflects on how their addictive behaviours, including gambling and drinking, affected their marriages and relationships, leading to emotional and financial strain.

• Coping with Failure: Andy discusses their tendency to catastrophise failure and the impact it had on their self-esteem and decision-making, leading to further challenges in personal and professional life.

• Awareness of Support Services: The importance of raising awareness about available support services for individuals struggling with addiction, mental health issues, and transitioning from the military is emphasised throughout the conversation.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think the piece that it gave me. So, you know, that's within the family and sort of, you know, it crammed all the arguments, but it also, for me, I've always found that my head is so, so busy."

"Money to me was only ever a tool to be able to get my buzz. It was only ever the substance almost that I'm then putting into a machine rather than into my body."

"I think the reality was quite often I would be drinking to drown my sorrows or I'd be drinking to celebrate a win."

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 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.

This episode features an engaging interview with Gina Atkinson, a former military professional with a diverse and adventurous background. Gina shares her experiences before, during, and after her military career, highlighting her journey from the army cadets to specialised roles in communications and close protection. She discusses the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, including working in a car park before finding success in the private security sector. Gina also opens up about a personal failure during a challenging endurance event and the importance of learning from setbacks. Gina's insights on loneliness, mental health, and building social networks post-military offer valuable perspectives for listeners navigating similar transitions.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Building a strong social and business network before and after leaving the military is crucial for a successful transition to civilian life.

• Failure should be viewed as a learning opportunity, and it's only considered a true failure if one gives up without learning from it.

• Loneliness can be felt even in bustling urban areas, highlighting the importance of meaningful interactions and connections.

• Mitigating risks and maintaining layers of security are essential in close protection work to ensure the safety of the client.

• Embracing challenges and pushing through setbacks, such as injuries during physical challenges, can lead to personal growth and eventual success.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was doing it to highlight mental health issues and loneliness, and anyone who knows me knows I'm quite a social animal."

"I did continue the miles in a sling in my local town. So I did the miles because people had sponsored me."

"I think the only thing with that is probably the outer, you know, you've got layers of security, haven't you?"

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 episode features an interview with Andy Fryer, a former Air Force officer, discussing his remarkable career journey. Andy shares insights into his transition from civilian life to the military, highlighting his passion for aircraft and the pivotal moments that led him to join the Air Force. The episode explores Andy's experiences at various military posts, including commanding roles in Kandahar and SHAPE, showcasing his leadership skills and strategic thinking. As Andy navigates the transition to civilian life post-retirement, he candidly shares his challenges and reflections on the value of experience and academic qualifications in shaping one's career path.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Importance of a positive mindset and attitude towards failure

• Value of experience and academic qualifications in personal and professional growth

• Recognition of the need for coaching and mentoring in career development

• Embracing failure as an opportunity to learn and grow

• Transitioning leadership styles based on organizational size and span of control

BEST MOMENTS

"I think there is a tipping point with leadership. And when you realize that you have to lead in a different way if you're going to still be effective."

"I think it's about mindset. It's about having a positive mindset, about seeing the glass as always half full."

"I went through it solo. I had the Career Transition Partnership to support me, but that was really about CV writing and increasing confidence."

"I think it's important that lots of things are pulled out from your experience."

"I think it's important to differentiate between coaching and mentoring. Coaching culturally wasn't really embedded, at least in my experience in the military during my time."

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 reflects on his journey from leaving the military to becoming a successful financial advisor and coach. He shares his stories of overcoming challenges, including a life-threatening accident and a career transition. Joe discusses his passion for helping veterans and business owners achieve their goals and aspirations. He highlights the development of his Pathfinder Ultimate Success System and the resources available in his membership site.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Joe has a diverse background, including military service, financial advising, and coaching.

• He developed a passion for helping veterans and business owners through coaching and training programs.

• Joe emphasises the importance of leadership in guiding individuals to achieve their goals.

• He offers a comprehensive membership site with resources, including podcast recordings and business cheat sheets.

• Joe's ultimate success system, the Pathfinder, is designed to help individuals achieve their dreams and aspirations.

BEST MOMENTS

"I'm really chuffed to be able to have brought you episodes of heroism, extraordinary stories and absolutely breathtaking experiences of my guests."

"I'm really proud to have seen through a year of podcasting, because guess what, guys, it's not easy."

"I was only chatting to someone. In fact, Chalky, I'll be chatting. He'll be on the podcast soon."

"I've written the Pathfinder Ultimate Success System, which is a program that helps you get where you want to be."

"You get access to the transformer business network where you can come along as my guest up to two times at my expense."

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 episode features an in-depth conversation with Thomas Burgess, a former RAF Regiment corporal, as he shares his journey from a troubled childhood in London to his military service and transition to civilian life. Thomas candidly discusses his struggles with alcohol, mental health, and thoughts of suicide during his time in the military. He reflects on the pivotal moments that led him to seek help and make significant changes in his life. Through his experiences, Thomas highlights the resilience and growth that can come from facing challenges and seeking help when needed.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Extraordinary Life Journey: Thomas Burgess shares his extraordinary life journey, from a troubled childhood to a successful military career and transition to civilian life.

• Overcoming Adversity: Despite facing challenges like bullying, dysfunctional family dynamics, and combat experiences, Thomas demonstrates resilience and the ability to overcome adversity.

• Importance of Seeking Help: Thomas emphasises the importance of seeking help and opening up about mental health struggles, highlighting the significance of reaching out for support.

• Continuous Learning and Growth: Thomas's commitment to continuous learning, obtaining qualifications in project management, mental health, and coaching, showcases his dedication to personal and professional growth.

• Value of Coaching and Mentorship: Thomas recognises the value of coaching and mentorship, highlighting the importance of seeking guidance from experienced individuals in various aspects of life and business.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was questioning me as a human. Is this what my life has amounted to? I've gone and thrown things down the pan."

"I'm always happy to have a chat with anyone. I do regularly with some mates I serve with."

"You haven't failed until you give up. Failure is okay because it's just feedback and it's the feedback from champions."

"You have to have coaching, you know. Cavemen, boys, before they had the cut and went out into the wilderness, they looked up to the elders of the village. That's coaching."

"Yeah, well, I think you've ticked the box off where I talk about how important is a good coaching mentor. And it's invaluable, isn't 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 explores the seven crucial stages to achieving independence, whether it be financial, personal, or professional. Joe shares personal anecdotes and experiences, emphasising the importance of setting clear goals, developing self-reliance and confidence, building a strong support network, and continuous professional development. The episode also highlights the significance of effective communication, reflecting on successes and failures, and ultimately, being true to oneself. The host introduces the Pathfinder Ultimate Success System and JoeTeams.com as resources to help listeners on their journey to success and independence. Through engaging storytelling and practical advice, the episode aims to inspire and empower individuals to reach their full potential.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Independence Day Tradition: Joe discusses the interesting tradition of Americans on Independence Day, focusing on gaining independence in various aspects of life.

• Seven Steps to Independence: Joe outlines seven important stages to achieving independence, including setting clear goals, developing self-reliance, building a support network, and continuous professional development.

• Attitude Matters: Joe talks about the significance of attitude in determining success in personal and business endeavors, highlighting the importance of a positive and determined mindset.

• Reflect on Success and Failures: Reflecting on successes and failures allows you to learn valuable lessons and improve personal and professional growth.

• Be Yourself: Joe advocates for authenticity and being true to oneself, as everyone else is already taken, promoting self-confidence and genuine interactions.

BEST MOMENTS

"Lessons haven't been learned. We just keep doing the same stuff different day."

"I've been a professional financial advisor for the last 36 years, or in fact more than that, actually all that time after leaving the military."

"Together Everyone Achieves More. But I take a different stance on this, because Together Everyone's Attitude Matters."

"Did you do your best? Did you give it your best shot? Everything that you had on that day?"

"My mission is to help one million veterans and business owner entrepreneurs collaborate so they can 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.

This episode features an engaging conversation between Joe, and Otis McGregor, a former military officer turned leadership coach. Otis shares his journey from being a Boy Scout and playing sports to serving in the military, including his experiences as a tank driver, long-range reconnaissance scout, and Green Beret. Otis also talks about his current mission of creating a legacy of leaders through his leadership development services. The episode provides valuable insights on leadership, teamwork, and the transferability of military skills to civilian life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Importance of Mentors and Coaches: Joe and Otis emphasise the critical role of mentors and coaches in personal and professional development, highlighting the value of seeking guidance and support from experienced individuals.

• Networking for Success: Networking is a crucial element for success, building relationships, seeking help, and being part of a supportive network are essential to achieving goals.

• Purpose and Contribution: Otis underscores the importance of finding purpose and contributing to a greater cause, emphasising the fulfilment that comes from helping others succeed and making a positive impact.

• Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life: Otis shares insights on the challenges faced during the transition from military to civilian life, highlighting the need to find purpose and seek help during this period of change.

• Leadership Development and Business Growth: Otis' mission of creating a legacy of leaders is reflected in the leadership development services offered, focusing on empowering individuals to become effective leaders and driving business growth through strategic guidance and support.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think the biggest challenge I faced was how to accomplish the mission with people that don't report to me."

"Don't be afraid to ask for help. It really is. Whether it's calling up somebody who's in your tribe that's been there, done that before, has experience, or hiring a coach, a consultant, somebody to help guide you."

"I always joke about this when I'm talking with other special operators. It's like when we were on the teams, We always ask for help."

"Yeah, it's interesting because before we logged on, I was chatting to someone and I always like to get feedback because feedback's the food of champions, right?"

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.