Joe interviews Alexa Brownlee, a former police officer and domestic violence champion. Alexa shares her personal journey, from growing up in a household affected by chronic PTSD to experiencing a violent relationship as a teenager. She discusses how these experiences led her to develop a passion for helping others and ultimately pursue a career in the police force. Alexa also opens up about her own struggles with PTSD and the importance of seeking help and finding support. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Recognise the importance of being authentic and true to yourself, especially when dealing with difficult situations or mental health challenges. It is essential to prioritise your own well-being and not pretend to be okay for the sake of others.

• Seek support from a coach or mentor who can help guide you through challenging times and provide a focus on the future. They can help you set goals and create a plan for moving forward, rather than dwelling on the past.

• Embrace the value of transferable skills gained from military or public service experience. These skills, such as effective communication, decision-making under pressure, and leadership abilities, are highly desirable in the private sector. Recognise your worth and the unique strengths you bring to any new role or career.

• Take advantage of opportunities for personal growth and learning. Engage in activities that promote healing and well-being, such as spending time outdoors, engaging in physical activities, or participating in creative pursuits. These experiences can help you find solace, switch off from negative thoughts, and rediscover yourself.

• Remember that failure is not the end, but an opportunity for a fresh start. Instead of dwelling on past mistakes or setbacks, focus on what you want for your future and create a plan to achieve your goals. Embrace the idea that failure can lead to new beginnings and growth.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think it's good when people see someone who is passionate, because I was passionate with my art." 

"With failure comes new starts. So it's not failure, it's actually an incredible restart."

"If you are upset, cry if you need to speak to someone who is empathetic, speak to someone, but give yourself, you know, almost a structure to it so that you can pull yourself back up."

"We forget how dynamic we are. Do I mean, because we're with loads of other dynamic people with specialist areas, but we can learn things so quickly." 

"Always remember your worth, and one of the famous words, know thyself. Do I mean? That is really, really important, I think, with any person, because we are all unique." 

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.