Lessons Learned from a Navy Commander’s Transition to Civilian Life

Today, Joe engages in a compelling conversation with Vince Scott, a former Navy officer with a rich background in military service and a successful transition to civilian life. Vince shares his upbringing on a 250-acre ranch in Missouri, his early aspirations for a military career, and his experiences at Admiral Farragut Academy, which set the stage for his acceptance into the prestigious United States Naval Academy. He also highlights the significance of preparation and opportunity in achieving success, while also reflecting on the cultural nuances within various military branches and their impact on teamwork and leadership. KEY TAKEAWAYS Success often comes from the intersection of preparation and opportunity. Being proactive in preparing for future challenges can help mitigate crises and lead to better outcomes. Having a mentor or coach who is a rung or two ahead in their career can significantly impact personal and professional growth. Associating with individuals who are successful can provide guidance and motivation. Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging due to cultural differences. Civilians may appreciate military service but often do not understand its relevance to civilian roles, making it essential for veterans to effectively communicate their skills. Experiences in military school and service academies instil discipline, leadership, and teamwork. These qualities are crucial for success in both military and civilian careers, emphasising the importance of structured environments in personal development. In technical fields, such as cybersecurity, the effectiveness of a team relies more on the quality of its people than on the technology or hardware used. Building a strong team and placing individuals in the right roles is vital for success. BEST MOMENTS "I was fortunate to sort of have that level of focus that really helped." "I think it's hugely important. I have a cousin of mine who wasn't doing very well, got moved by his parents into a high school that had a JROTC program and it really turned his life around." "Life is not fair. It's not gonna be fair. That's just not part of the plan." "I think the number one thing that I talk to transitioning veterans about is culture." "I was a little taken aback by the lack of understanding on the civilian side." 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 Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/