This episode features a deep dive into the life and experiences of Barbara Thompson, a successful veteran who has transitioned from military service to civilian life. The episode delves into Barbara's upbringing in Oklahoma, her journey through the military, and her transition to civilian life. Barbara shares insights into her challenges, successes, and the importance of having a strong support network. She discusses the impact of 9-11 on her decision to join the military, her experiences as an operational psychologist, and her current endeavours including volunteering with Shields and Stripes and hosting the podcast "In the Name of Service." 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Challenges Can Be Opportunities: Barbara Thompson grew up in a financially challenged environment, even experiencing homelessness, but she learned to view these challenges as opportunities to grow stronger and more resilient, a mindset instilled by her mother.
• Military Service Instills Valuable Skills: Barbara emphasises the transferability of skills learned in the military, such as being a good teammate, humility, and drive, which are fundamental for success in civilian life.
• Importance of Social and Professional Networks: After leaving the military, Barbara found it crucial to build and maintain a strong network. She actively sought to connect with others, which led to opportunities like her podcast and volunteer work with Shields and Stripes.
• Gratitude and Positive Outlook: Barbara discusses the psychological benefits of gratitude, explaining how it can change one's brain to see opportunities instead of threats and open up to positive relationships and experiences.
• Seeking Wisdom and Encouragement: Barbara's current focus is on seeking wisdom, planning around creating social relationships, and encouraging others to pursue their interests and desires. She is open to helping others with various aspects of life, from fitness to starting a podcast.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was going to say actually, because I know that people make comments when there's one boy with a few girls, but being one girl with a few boys, that must have been tough at times."

"I think all of those skills are outside any of the technical skills that individuals learn in their specific career fields within the military."

"I mess up. I make mistakes. The real failure would be in taking those personally or attributing it to some kind of character flaw that's not going to change." 

"I think it's fundamental. I think that it's wise to seek counsel. It's wise to bring other people in. All of those kind of cliches that you've heard, that two minds are better than one, iron sharpens iron, all of those are absolutely true." 

"So the brain is wired for survival. That's a great thing. Until you experience trauma. And then it takes a snapshot, right? So all of those cues that we mentioned earlier kind of causing the anxiety, that's because your brain is doing its job." 

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 centre 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.