Robyn Lockwood joins Joe in this episode and shares her journey from a troubled childhood to a military career. They discuss growing up in a single-parent household and their struggles with the education system. Robyn then talks about her decision to join the military and their experiences in basic training and branch training. They highlight the challenges and rewards of being in the mine warfare sector and the camaraderie among the crew members. However, their military career takes an unexpected turn and Robyn opens up about the emotional and physical toll of this and her discharge. Overall, this episode provides a candid and insightful perspective on the highs and lows of a military career and the resilience required to navigate unexpected challenges.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Robyn grew up in a single-parent household, with her mother and sister being her primary support system. Despite the support, Robin felt troubled and dissatisfied with the education system.

• The decision to transition from traditional schooling to the military was not made lightly. Robyn and her mother, along with her headteacher and tutor, had a conversation about her educational future. 

• Robyn joined the military and went through basic training and branch training in mine warfare.

• While the military provides structure and discipline, it can also be a challenging and demanding environment. Being away from loved ones for extended periods of time and facing the pressures of the job can take a toll on individuals

• Robyn experienced deployments and mine-clearing operations in the Baltics and Bahrain.

• Robyn suffered a back injury during an adventurous activity training course, which ultimately led to the end of their military career.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was a little bit troubled as I grew up, I would say. Nothing too serious, but just really didn't like the education system. Just wasn't for me." 

"I was lucky in the sense that I started basic training and I finished on the date that I was supposed to finish. Um, there was no backtrack for me." 

"I was very lucky in the sense of my crew, especially the first one, that there were no bad experiences between the males and females on that ship." 

"I was still under the illusion that once I'll be home for three months and I'll be back to playing. I was honestly still under that illusion." 

"I came to a clear understanding that maybe my military career could be over. And that's where I went for my first medical discharge." 

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.