Joe O'Connor
Veterans to Success
Welcome to "Veterans to Success" with your host, Joe O'Connor. This podcast is a must-listen for military veterans and ambitious business owners who are determined to increase their knowledge, achieve success and gain financial independence. Every week, Joe brings you captivating interviews with accomplished entrepreneurs who have mastered the art of success. Gain expert advice on strategic budgeting, effective money management techniques, and essential mindset strategies that will propel you towards your goals. Join Joe and his guests as they inspire, motivate, and empower you on your path to...
Author
Joe O'Connor
Category
Podcast website
Latest episode
Jan 29, 2026
Where to listen?
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Episodes
From Essex Lad to Navy Diver: Paul Bailey's Journey of Transformation 23.01.2025 1:25:06
Joe speaks with Paul Bailey, an Essex lad with a remarkable journey from a disciplined childhood to a career in the Royal Navy. Paul shares his experiences growing up as an identical twin, the challenges he faced in school, and the pivotal moments that led him to enlist just before his 18th birthday. He recounts the rigorous training at HMS Raleigh, the camaraderie and challenges of life at sea on...
The Truth About Blue Monday 16.01.2025 52:30
Joe takes a solo approach to discuss the concept of Blue Monday, the third Monday in January, often labeled as the most depressing day of the year. He debunks the myth surrounding Blue Monday, explaining its origins as a PR stunt and emphasizing the importance of mental health. The episode explores the power of language and how our words can shape our mindset and actions, encouraging listeners to...
Navigating Life After Service: Lessons in Leadership and Resilience with Nick Smith 09.01.2025 1:11:47
Joe interviews Nick Smith, a former U.S. Army imagery analyst, who shares his extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood in Florida to a successful career in the military and beyond. Nick discusses the invaluable lessons he learned from his parents, the impact of 9/11 on his decision to enlist, and the skills he acquired during his military service, particularly in geospatial intelligence....
From Struggles to Success: Jeff Brown's Journey from Dyslexia to Military Photographer 12.12.2024 1:11:31
Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Jeff Brown, a former military photographer whose journey is marked by resilience and creativity. Jeff shares his struggles with dyslexia and the challenges he faced in traditional education, which ultimately led him to discover his passion for photography while serving in the Navy. The discussion delves into his entrepreneurial spirit, from starting a f...
Breaking Barriers: How Stubbornness and Determination Shaped a Military Career 06.12.2024 1:13:44
Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Gemma Luxton, who shares her extraordinary journey from a garrison town in Chepstow to a successful career in the RAF as a medic. Gemma reflects on her early life, the challenges she faced in school, and her determination to break free from the expectations of her hometown. She recounts her experiences in basic training, the emotional toll of working in...
Improvise, Adapt, Overcome: Lessons from the Jugal Mountain Range 28.11.2024 34:31
Joe shares his extraordinary experiences while on an unclimbed peak expedition in the Jugal Mountain Range. With a focus on the military mantra of "improvise, adapt, and overcome," Joe reflects on his personal journey, including challenges he faced in his business and personal life. He outlines seven key strategies for tackling difficulties, emphasising the importance of identifying challenges, ex...
Flight School and Beyond: The Unexpected Path of an Army Aviator 21.11.2024 1:53:56
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 di...
Beyond the Uniform: Craig Jones' Legacy of Diversity and Equality in the Royal Navy 14.11.2024 1:32:13
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+...
From Military Service to Ministry: Bob Jordan's Journey of Transformation and Healing 07.11.2024 1:09:29
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 o...
The Power of Community: Dr. Angela Pearson on Building Networks and Finding Success Against All Odds 31.10.2024 57:47
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...
The Transition from Soldier to Police Officer: Lessons in Adaptation and Resilience with John Riley 24.10.2024 1:18:10
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...
The Power of Failure: Guy Di Salvo's Insights on Learning and Growth in High-Pressure Environments 17.10.2024 1:01:28
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 rigorou...
Transforming Lives: The Role of a Drill Sergeant in Shaping Future Soldiers 10.10.2024 1:06:37
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 Ira...
Navigating Transition: Shawn Welsh on Life After 20 Years in the Military 03.10.2024 58:24
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 ordnanc...
From Glasgow to the RAF: Scott's Journey Through Adversity and Service 26.09.2024 1:14:51
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 t...
Finding Purpose in the Unfamiliar: Sheldon's Story of Resilience and Determination 19.09.2024 1:02:54
Sheldon Shelby shares his extraordinary journey from a typical upbringing in the Caribbean to overcoming numerous challenges on his path to joining the British Army. Sheldon reflects on his early life in Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada, discussing the impact of his parents' separation and his determination to succeed academically despite not considering himself naturally gifted. He recounts the st...
Service and Sacrifice: Niall Ogilvy's Extraordinary Military Career 12.09.2024 1:20:07
Niall Ogilvy shares his extraordinary journey from a straightforward upbringing in Edinburgh to a diverse military career that began in the Royal Navy and transitioned to the British Army. Neil recounts his formative years at a boarding school in the far north of Scotland, where he developed a passion for outdoor activities and service to others. His experiences aboard the aircraft carrier HMS Ark...
Leadership Lessons: From Combat Deployments to Corporate Success 05.09.2024 1:00:41
This episode features a conversation between Joe, and guest J.J. Hardy, who shares his journey from a rough childhood to joining the military and transitioning to civilian life. J.J. discusses the challenges he faced in finding employment after leaving the military and the importance of networking and building strong social and business networks. He emphasises the value of learning from failures a...
Embracing Community Engagement: A Story of Service and Growth 29.08.2024 1:11:09
Joe talks with Chalky, a former Air Force member who shares his journey from growing up in Paisley to his various career transitions. Chalky discusses his upbringing in a council estate, joining the Air Force, and his experiences as aircrew. He shares his leadership roles in the Encyclopedia Britannica business and Middlewich Town Council, highlighting the challenges and successes he faced. The ep...
Navigating Loss and Adversity: Kevin Wright's Path to the Military 22.08.2024 1:44:28
This episode features an interview with Kevin Wright, a former Navy officer with a diverse and adventurous career in diving and military operations. Kevin shares his journey from a challenging childhood to joining the Navy and becoming a clearance diver and saturation diving officer. He recounts his experiences working with the US Navy Experimental Diving Unit, likening it to an underwater NASA. K...
From Gambling to the Navy: Andy Gallie's Struggle and Triumph 15.08.2024 1:19:29
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...
Finding Strength in Faith: A Chaplain's Perspective on Resilience 08.08.2024 57:46
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 trans...
Overcoming Failure: Gina Atkinson's Resilience in Scotland 300 Challenge 01.08.2024 1:07:25
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 workin...
Embracing Failure and Success: Insights from a Former Air Force Commander 25.07.2024 1:13:33
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 Kandah...
How I Got Here: A Veteran's Path to Personal and Professional Growth 18.07.2024 51:23
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 t...
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