The NAAFI Break podcast highlights the transition from the military into second career success. The measure of success is subjective and different for everyone, although it is common to define it in many cases as achieving fulfilment by finding a new purpose. Within the Veterans Community there are many examples of ‘giving back’ and when someone leaves the Military and is successful a strong desire to ‘send the elevator down for the next person’ . Mark ‘Benny’ Hill is one of those people, driven to help, to continue to serve others and he has succeeded in negotiating his own transition, to be able to be in a position to continue serving with a purpose.

Another insightful and honest conversation with Mark that I am grateful to have had.

Are you looking for help with your transition ? Get in touch! Or share to others who may need help or to understand the Military to Veterans transition.

Gina Atkinson joins me on the NAAFI BREAK podcast to uncover what drives her to 'Give Back' and support a variety of causes, all of which are driven by personal and purposeful reasons.

From Army Cadet to Inspiration of Year 2022 in the Soldiering on Awards and Fundraiser of the Year 2023 at the Veterans Awards she has devoted her time to bringing awareness and change to her chosen causes and somehow managed to find time to forge a successful post military career!

Link to Gina's Book and a live reading of one of the poems published within its pages and her latest fundraising activities. 

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Military-Memories-anthology-community-illustrate/dp/B09M9P1J35

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pkHTOo2NqU
Another insightful lived experience from our Veteran Community.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-atkinson-11289826?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

It is always invigorating to hear the stories of second career success, but even more so when that person not only transitions well, but then ‘gives back’ to help the ne t generation of Service Leavers.
Roger Green is a man with an infectious energy and enthusiasm to share his experiences and help others, a trait which can be traced back to his early military training days, as the older cadet.

The detail and planning Roger went to when planning his transition is a great example of using your military training and skills to great effect.

Roger and I are working on further support for the Veteran Community in my day job with JobOppO.

His energy and desire to give back are what I describe as ‘A Good Apple’

#RoyalNavy #Lawyer #GiveBack

Welcome to the NAAFI Break podcast and this week my guest is RED SIX Founder Michael Handley. If you want to hear an honest, raw ( his descriptions are not meant to offend) and sometimes emotional story of transition and finding a new purpose Michael’s journey has it all. He wears his heart on his sleeve and he is a real powerhouse of purpose.

Please share the podcast to anyone with a forces connection who wants to explore the transition process and hear about the qualities our Service leavers bring with them.

Welcome to the final episode of series 2 of the NAAFI Break podcast. Today we meet Olly Church. Having been injured in Afghanistan it acted as a turning point in recognising and learning to manage his own psychological recovery. He is a qualified Emotional Coach and you will hear him talk about applying physical fitness principles to your Mental Fitness. 

Another angle on the Transition process to consider.

Share and follow the NAAFI break podcast on all the usual channels (Apple, Google, Spotify, Podchaser, Tune-In)

Dominic OSullivan
RAF 

In this episode we meet Garrath Williams, who has served for a total of 17years in both the British and Australian Army. Following his Service career he has worked in Training, Leadership Development and now works in the charity sector helping Veterans reskill and find new purposeful opportunities.
He is currently the Director of Veteran Engagement & Development at JobOppo.
His own Transition was unique having left the Australian army while posted to the UK!

The NAAFI break podcast shines a light on the transition process from the Military and those who have achieved success in a second career.Success is not defined by the size of the paycheck, but by purpose and fulfilment.

Today we meet Sean Rose, a former RAF PTI who following a life changing event, catapulted himself to new heights, exceeding his own expectations.

Without doubt Sean is an ‘Above Average Joe’

Please share to anyone with a Forces connection .

Welcome to the NAAFI Break podcast, this week we are going green, with former Army Officer Mike Crofts. Mike after testing the water in Corporate world and Politics from leaving the Army, he is now Founder of the 3Pillars Project (that empowers young people to forge brighter futures) and he is CEO of Amodigo.

His vision is to create the nation’s leading sports-based mentoring programme for young people in custody and those recently released from prison. 

3 Pillars is a charity that uses sports-based mentoring programmes to support young adults and children in custody, equipping them through mentoring, training, employment and education.

Another transition story and also a thought provoking discussion about, our prison system. 

Please share to anyone with a forces connection or who wants to gain greater insight into what our forces personnel have to offer.

BONUS Episode to link with the School of Physical Training episode.

A unique insight into the specialist roles of RAF PTI’s.
Parachute Jump Instructor 
Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor 
Adventure Training Instructor 

Welcome to the NAAFI Break podcast which shines a light on the transition from the military by our Veteranfamily. We look to highlight the second career success and increase the understanding, of what our skills and value our service personnel can bring to the next step in their post service career.

Each week we take a different view of the transition, this week we turn our attention to gaining some insight into the way military training has changed over the recent decades. This week we look at a specific trade in the RAF, the role of a Physical Training Instructor through the eyes of the Staff Instructor at the School of Physical Training.

I am joined by past Staff, Graham Hughes, Robert Quantock, John Weedon, Gareth Davies, Matt Wilkinson to discuss what’s changed and what hasn’t in the past 50 years of PTI trade training.

There is a bonus episode which interviews PTIs from each of the Specialist roles that PTIs can advance to during their career in the Service.

please share the podcast to anyone with a Service connection.

In support of The Rowing Marine Lee Spencer, I felt it was pertinent to highlight the poem Tommy, which Lee spoke about during his interview.

I am grateful to fellow Veteranfamily for reading the poem

Peter Golding 
Gary Scott
Sean Evans
Dominic OSullivan
John Adams

Please share to anyone with a forces connection or who is interested in supporting our Veteranfamily.

Welcome to the NAAFI break podcast, where we shine a light on the transition process from the military. We speak to Veteranfamily about their experiences and the challenges they faced on leaving the Service and finding a new purpose.

We have looked at the transition through several lenses, this week we change again, to look at the end of the Service career that is thrust open the individual by injury. Lee Spencer is by my definition an Above Average Joe, who growing up wanted to be a brave person. His journey is both raw, emotional and inspiring, with total honesty as he speaks.

Following a traumatic accident which saw him lose his leg, he is now an ambassador for BLESMA and his sole purpose is to keep the injured service personnel in the public consciousness, with incredible feats of human endurance and speaking to others about his experiences. 

Please share to anyone with a Service connection or who is interspersed in understanding more about what our Services families have to offer.

There is a bonus episode linked to this in which Veteranfamily read the Rudyard Kipling poem“Tommy” discussed by Lee during his interview.

I’m Dominic O’Sullivan, an RAF Veteran and this podcast aims to shine a light on the transition process and those who find success in a second career. We look at all aspects of the transition process and how to achieve success after a Service career. Success is not measured by the size of the salary, but in purpose and fulfilment too!

This episode we meet Phil MacRae, who understands who he is, his strengths and making decisions to better a person.
If you want to understand the process or are about to start your transition tune in for weekly episodes.

Please share to anyone in the Forces family or anyone interested in the Military.

The highest ranking guest to have joined me on the NAAFI Break, not that it is of huge significance, but  I have been curious to see a different perspective and approach to the transition process. What is more comforting and enlightening,  is that it is clear that rank has no bearing on post-service success and the challenges are consistent across all ranks.
Simon offers some excellent observations about translating your military experiences into confidence for your next career choice.

Please like and share to anyone with a Forces connection 

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan a 15 year RAF Veteran who served as a Physical Training Instructor from the mid 80's. I have launched the pod to bring aspects of the transition process from the Military and some of the people who have made that transition work for them. 
There are many aspects to the transition process and we have started by focussing on those who served and their personal journey.

Now we are in Series 2 highlighting the skills and traits of our Veterans, I want to introduce you to Mark Lane an 'Above Average Joe' and the journey  that took him on a 37  year long service career and is now helping Veterans through his work with Active Plus in the charity sector. In his own words, he didn’t plan the transition as well as he could, his honesty is clear, but he has used the opportunity that presented itself to find a fulfilling and rewarding  purpose. 

Subscribe to the Podcast and get notified of every new episode.

I’m Dominic O'Sullivan a Veteran RAF PTI who served for 15yrs from 1985-1999.
The NAAFI Break podcast aims to shine a light on the transition process into a second career after the military, across all UK Armed Forces. Through the first series I have met a variety of people, that I describe as ‘Above Average Joes’ and who have had very different transition journeys to their new career success. I truly believe in the talent that Military leavers have to offer Civilian Employers.

In this second series I’d like to introduce you to Tony and Helen Dunn who after 37 years of RAF Service life are preparing for life after the RAF and a new chapter in work and home life. It’s a different lens that you will view the transit process through, one that highlights the experience that both of them have gained, in coping with the demands of the Service whilst raising a family. It is a truly great insight. 

Please share the podcast to your friends, family, colleagues.  Grab a brew and enjoy NAAFI Break.

I’m Dominic O'Sullivan a Veteran RAF PTI who served for 15yrs from 1985-1999 and host of the NAAFI break podcast.

The podcast aims to shine a light on the transition process into a second career after the military, across all UK Armed Forces. Through the first series  met a variety of people, that I describe as ‘Above Average Joes’ who have had very different transition journeys to their new career success. I truly believe in the talent that Military leavers have to offer Civilian Employers.

In this episode we look through a different lens, the view from the Employer. What’s it like having Military leavers alongside you?

I’d like to introduce you to Pat Lam, Director of Rugby at the Bristol Bears in the English Gallagher Premiership. Pat is a high performer, as a player who lifted Premiership titles with Newcastle Falcons, European Cup success at Northampton as well as 34 caps for Samoa and playing at 3 Rugby World Cups as a player. He was the RPA Players Player of the Year in 2000.  He moved into coaching with Auckland in NZ and came to the Northern Hemisphere again to coach Connacht, winning the 2016 PRO12 title before arriving at Bristol Bears in 2019 and has already achieved European Challenge Cup success in 2020.

During his playing career he played alongside serving soldiers in the Professional Rugby ranks and currently has Siva Naulago a serving British Army soldier. He has first hand experience of military personnel.

I hope you will find some unique insights and understanding in this podcast.

Please share the podcast to your friends, family, colleagues.  Grab a brew and enjoy NAAFI Break.

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Published: Apr. 04, 2021 @ 6AM Edit

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I’m Dominic O'Sullivan a Veteran RAF PTI who served for 15yrs from 1985-1999.
The NAAFI Break podcast aims to shine a light on the transition process into a second career after the military, across all UK Armed Forces. Through the first series we have met a variety of people, that I describe as ‘Above Average Joes’ and who have had very different transition journeys to their new career success. I truly believe in the talent that Military leavers have to offer Civilian Employers.

In this episode I’d like to introduce you to Tracy Roberts, who I beleive is a great female role model and having joined the Royal Navy at 16, has shown through her career to thrive and succeed in male dominated environments. This girl can!

Please share the podcast to your friends, family, colleagues.  Grab a brew and enjoy NAAFI Break.

I’m Dominic O'Sullivan a Veteran RAF PTI who served for 15yrs from 1985-1999.
The NAAFI Break podcast aims to shine a light on the transition process into a second career after the military, across all UK Armed Forces. Through the first series we have met a variety of people, that I describe as ‘Above Average Joes’ and who have had very different transition journeys to their new career success. I truly believe in the talent that Military leavers have to offer Civilian Employers.

In this episode I’d like to introduce you to Peter McCrory, who after training as a Navigator left the RAF and the UK behind for a new career in Canada. You will here about the challenges and the lessons learned along his journey. I hope you will find insights, understanding and inspiration from his story.

Please share the podcast to your friends, family, colleagues.  Grab a brew and enjoy NAAFI Break.

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan a 15 year RAF Veteran who served as a Physical Training Instructor from the mid 80's. I have launched the pod to bring aspects of the transition process from the Military and some of the people who have made that transition work for them. 
There are many aspects to the transition process and we have started by focussing on those who served and their personal journey.

As we continue Series 1, highlighting the skills and traits of our Veterans, I want to introduce you to Jon Reynolds an 'Above Average Joe' and the journey  that took him from a 10 yr old with dreams to be an Army Officer with a red beret and his parachute wings, to a passionate Entrepreneur who is inspiring the next generation through active gaming.

He has found a role that, in his words ‘doesn’t feel like work’ and represents a non traditional post military direction. The legacy of his Army career, has given him the personal mindset to tread a different path.

Subscribe to the Podcast and get notified of every new episode.

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan a 15 year RAF Veteran who served as a Physical Training Instructor from the mid 80's. I have launched the pod to bring aspects of the transition process from the Military and some of the people who have made that transition work for them. 
There are many aspects to the transition process and we have started by focussing on those who served and their personal journey.

As we continue Series 1, highlighting the skills and traits of our Veterans, I want to introduce you to Richard Gammage an 'Above Average Joe' and the journey  that took him from a chance conversation at an Athletics meeting to a 27 year long service career and now helping Veterans through his work with Stoll Foundation in the charity sector.

Richard is a high performing guy, still pushing himself and striving for more, with an enthusiasm that has not diminished over time. If you can hang on to his coat tails, you will go far(&fast)!

Subscribe to the Podcast and get notified of every new episode.

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan a 15 year RAF Veteran who served as a Physical Training Instructor from the mid 80's. I have launched the pod to bring aspects of the transition process from the Military and some of the people who have made that transition work for them. 
There are many aspects to the transition process and we have started by focussing on those who served and their personal journey.

As we continue Series 1, highlighting the skills and traits of our Veterans, I want to introduce you to Jon James an 'Above Average Joe' and the journey  that took him from almost failing Recruit  Training due to injury, to dealing with tragedy and how it shaped his future choices.

In the time I have know Jon, he has always been selfless and willing to answer the call for help from anywhere. He continues to 'give back' through his support of the Scottys Little Soldiers charity.  I hope you enjoy both episodes of his transition story.

Subscribe to the Podcast and get notified of every new episode.

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan a 15 year RAF Veteran who served as a Physical Training Instructor from the mid 80's. I have launched the pod to bring aspects of the transition process from the Military and some of the people who have made that transition work for them. 
There are many aspects to the transition process and we have started by focussing on those who served and their personal journey.

As we continue Series 1, highlighting the skills and traits of our Veterans, I want to introduce you to Jon James an 'Above Average Joe' and the journey  that took him from almost failing Recruit  Training due to injury, to dealing with tragedy and how it shaped his future choices.

In the time I have know Jon, he has always been selfless and willing to answer the call for help from anywhere. He continues to 'give back' through his support of the Scottys Little Soldiers charity.  I hope you enjoy both episodes of his transition story.

Subscribe to the Podcast and get notified of every new episode.

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan a 15 year RAF Veteran who served as a Physical Training Instructor from the mid 80's. I have launched the pod to shine a light on the transition process from the Military and some of the people who have made that transition work for them. 

I enjoyed my time served and truly beleive it shaped the person I am now and how I work. What I wasn't prepared for was the how much I had to prove mysefl all over again in a new environment. Every day is a school day!

In  Series 1, I am focussing on the skills and traits of our Veterans.  I want to introduce you to  'Above Average Joes'. What is clear is that there is not one way to transition!

Subscribe to the Podcast (in all the usual places) and get notified of every new episode.

RAF Veteran Alistair McFarland joins me as my guest on the NAAFI Break podcast, discussing the change in mindset and priorities experienced when joining and leaving his military career. 
Alistair was able to articulate the changes in his priorities and family considerations as well as the crucial communication between him and his wife when trying to find his next role after leaving the RAF.

A fantastic honest, reflection of the military transition, not around the technical skills transfer to civilian employment, but the most important thing family!

Please like comment and share to anyone with a Forces connection.

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan a 15 year RAF Veteran who served as a Physical Training Instructor from the mid 80's. I have launched the pod to bring aspects of the transition process from the Military and some of the people who have made that transition work for them. 

As we continue Series 1, highlighting the skills and traits of our Veterans, I want to introduce you to Dean Gray. He is what I call an 'Above Average Joe' and his journey takes him from 17yr old Recruit to IT Project Manager working with Blue Chip Companies.

What I loved about Dean's story was the length he would go to secure the job, (normalised in his mind by going the extra mile through his military career). His personal discipline and resilience has stayed with him from his RAF Regiment 2 Squadron days.

Subscribe to the Podcast and get notified of every new episode.

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan,an RAF Veteran who served for 15 yrs as a Physical Training Instructor and now works as a Consultant in the Health and Fitness sector. My transition from the Military was varied, and fruitful, but also with a lot of learning along the way. The toughest part was proving myself all over again and being able to promote myself to others, even now it's not natural to me . I hope this podcast shares some insights into the transition process for others and showcases what our Veteran family can offer.

So grab a brew and hear about  the 'Above Average Joe's' who have succesfully transitioned from a  military to a successful second career.  Hear their story, the insights, inspiration and humour that has made them successful.

In this episode meet Alan Knell, following 9 years in the Royal Navy, Alan in his own words,  didn't have a clear direction jpr the next chapter of his career, so took what was on offer initially. However,  a desire to give back to the Armed Forces saw him volunteer to be a Co-ordinator for the Poppy Appeal in his area. That was the catalyst for a new and fulfilling path, that today, finds him working for the Firefighters Charity. 

His story and the work he is doing now, is so important that I have given him a refill on his NAAFI break brew. I hope you can find time to hear both episodes and recognise that success comes in many forms. 

Please help the Veteran Community and spread the word

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan,an RAF Veteran who served for 15 yrs as a Physical Training Instructor and now works as a Consultant in the Health and Fitness sector. My transition from the Military was varied, and fruitful, but also with a lot of learning along the way. The toughest part was proving myself all over again and being able to promote myself to others, even now it's not natural to me . I hope this podcast shares some insights into the transition process for others and showcases what our Veteran family can offer.

So grab a brew and hear about  the 'Above Average Joe's' who have succesfully transitioned from a  military to a successful second career.  Hear their story, the insights, inspiration and humour that has made them successful.

In this episode meet Alan Knell, following 9 years in the Royal Navy, Alan in his own words,  didn't have a clear direction for the next chapter of his career, so took what was on offer initially. However,  a desire to give back to the Armed Forces saw him volunteer to be a Co-ordinator for the Poppy Appeal in his area. That was the catalyst for a new and fulfilling path, that today, finds him working for the Firefighters Charity. 

His story and the work he is doing now, is so important that I have given him a refill on his NAAFI break brew. I hope you can find time to hear both episodes and recognise that success comes in many forms. 

Please help the Veteran Community and spread the word

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan,an RAF Veteran who served for 15 yrs as a Physical Training Instructor and now works as a Consultant in the Health and Fitness sector. My transition from the Military was varied, and fruitful, but also with a lot of learning along the way. The toughest part was proving myself all over again and being able to promote myself to others, even now it's not natural to me . I hope this podcast shares some insights into the transition process for others and showcases what our Veteran family can offer.

So grab a brew and hear about 'Above Average Joe's' who have succesfully transitioned from a  military to a successful second career. 
Hear their story, the insights, insopiration and humour that has made them successful.

In this episode meet Martin Longden - with over 30 years uniformed service as an ex RAF PTI and Police Officer, Martin now owns a successful sports clothing company Karuta Sportswear. A journey from a 16yr old in Pro football to Entrepreneur. 
Grab a brew and enjoy.

Pleae help the Veteran Community and spread the word

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan,an RAF Veteran who served for 15 yrs as a Physical Training Instructor and now works as a Consultant in the Health and Fitness sector. My transition from the Military was varied, and fruitful, but also with a lot of learning along the way. The toughest part was proving myself all over again and being able to promote myself to others, even now it's not natural to me . I hope this podcast shares some insights into the transition process for others and showcases what our Veteran family can offer. 

  In this episode of NAAFI Break we talk to Andrew Rose who now runs the successful Apollo Sports Injury Clinic in Telford. A 22yr RAF Physical Training Instructor and Rehabilitation Specialist, he explains how he prepared for his transition and what he gained from his career that shaped his success.

I'm Dominic O'Sullivan, 15 years servied in the RAF as a Physical Training Instructor and Rehabilitation Specialist, I served in the UK and overseas, working within Recruit Training, Aircrew Training, Special Forces and supporting the base communities. 
I feel priviledged to have served and gained a huge amount in my time from teenage runaway to leaving at 32 yrs of age. 
Since leaving I have progressed from Fitness Club Management, to set up my own gyms,  to now providing expertise in Digital Implemention within the Fitness Industry. 
I Coach, Mentor and challenge people to make choices that help them be high achievers.

I want to give back, via this podcast to the Veteran Community with insights, inspiration and good news from Military Veterans. NAAFI break will last as long a a hot brew, so easy to fit into the working day. Grab a brew and dive in.

When I saw the 'NAAFI Break Veterans Hub' on LinkedIn,  I could not resist exploring and making contact with founder Sebastian Edwards-Beech, a Household Cavalry Veteran, who moved into a successful Private Security career on leaving the Army. 

The NAAFI Break Veterans HUB in Wilmslow, was set up in the local areas to support  and engage with  Veterans. As we all remember the NAAFI Break was a time for providing,  brews, banter, support, help and advice.
This episode provides a personal lived experience, leading to a 'giving back' purpose, that is now driving him forward, Sebastian shares the emotional and personal impact of his military career and beyond.

So glad I stumbled across The NAAFI Break Hub! Hope you will follow and support the work in Wilmslow or share the story if you can't visit.

#podcast 
 

I am joined on the NAAFI Break podcast this week by James Paul Watson, Author, Local Counsellor, founder of Ex- Forces Union CIC with a 1st Class Honours degree in Military History, but most important an Irish Guards Veteran.

We discuss the way we train our soldiers, the long term legacy of that method and how to help them transition more effectively.

James brings his own personal lived experience openly and with honesty to highlight his new purpose in holding Government accountable for the after care of our Veteran Community.

A powerful and stirring conversation that I was grateful to have.

Please follow and share the NAAFI Break podcast to your own network.

#Veterans #ServeAgain 

Check out his book https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B099NGWY4N

This episode we meet Sam OConnor, Royal Marine Veteran and Co owner of The Floorsmith LTD. 
He shares his lived experience, the lessons learned and mistakes made!
Sam is one of my ‘younger ‘ Veteran guests and certainly provides a different attitude to entry to the Royal Marines as well as life beyond.

Please share and comment with your feedback 

I am back to kick off 2023 with another story of second career success after the military.
Alistair Scott, is well established in the Commercial world, having entered the Facilities Management sector after leaving an Army career behind, A REME Veteran, he transferred his skills and experience into the new environment with great success. He now runs his own company and has continued to serve, by giving back once he had settled into civvy street, via his charitable role with ‘Care after Combat’.
His lived experience and adaptation  to the new workplace rules is a great example of increased self awareness and growth.
Another great reflection from our NAAFI Break guest.Please, like, comment and share to anyone with a Forces connection.

Sean Foley, is the EQCommando. A former Royal Marine, he has crafted a career, launched off the back of a moment of stark realisation on a ridge in Kuwait. 
His journey hasn’t been linear, more of a squiggly one, but he walks his own talk. He is comfortable in his own skin.

There are moments of honesty and the guts of   what’s behind his outlook, that will resonate with others, but importantly it’s his lived experience and honesty as he reflects that is of most value to Veterans and Service Leavers.

PLEASE LIKE SHARE & LEAVE YOUR FEEDBACK.

Founder of The Spearhead Foundation former Rifleman Craig and I first met on a rugby pitch 10 years ago. I had no idea of the personal journey he was on from his medical discharge from the Army following injuries sustained in Afghanistan.

The experience of that day and his journey since are great insight into the mindset and attitude he has. In his word he feels normal when surrounded by chaos. Success after service is relative and varied, but talking to Craig and charting his achievements to date are, in my mind an indicator of success.

Personal growth and self awareness are a regular theme in the guests we speak to, this episode emphasized this further.

Please leave a comment, like, follow and share to anyone with a Forces connection 

For the first time I have invited a previous guest back to the NAAFI Break podcast. A year ago I came across a Veteran who was stirred to action by the Afghan Refugee crisis and he decided to do more than make an online donation to help. So began EMS4Afghans and a year of serving again. With the momentum building, global events created an extension to the original cause and Bridge to Unity was formed to support the Ukrainian situation. 
Matt Simmons has had time to reflect on his post RAF career and has come to some clear conclusions. I felt I had to uncover more from him and share the story.

Please like follow and share to anyone with a Forces connection. 

Matt Simmons what I call a 'Good Apple'

As we journey through to three years and over 125 episodes, the "How to make a successful transition from the military?" focus of our podcast continues to resonate and extend its influence into broader circles. The authentic narratives from our Veteran Community remain the bedrock of truth, providing invaluable insights. However, the spectrum of learning widens as we delve into the perspectives of those who actively support and are profoundly affected by the military transition.

Stepping into 2024, the NAAFI Break Podcast is honored to welcome an innovative subject matter expert. This seasoned individual brings forth a wealth of knowledge and imparts compelling messages, particularly delving into the realms of 'Start-up' business initiatives, the significance of transferable skills, and the crucial attributes of adaptability and resilience.

The upcoming episode promises to be a rich tapestry of wisdom, combining the lived experiences of veterans with the strategic insights of this distinguished expert. Together, we aim to empower and guide our audience through the intricacies of navigating post-military pathways, fostering resilience, and unlocking the potential for success in new and dynamic ventures. Stay tuned as we continue to unfold the layers of knowledge and inspiration on the NAAFI Break Podcast.

Erica Wolfe- Murray, Owner of Lola Media,  helps creative, cultural & tech businesses innovate & grow. She is the Lead on CreativeUK Female Founders Scale-up Programme. Author of Business growth book 'Simple Tips, Smart Ideas' author. A Gordon Russell Design Museum trustee and has been described  as an' IP Entrepreneur', which is just one of the ways she helps her clients.

Working with brands, companies and charities to unearth, map, develop, manage and exploit their intellectual capital/IP to:
a. generate new products/services, audiences and revenue streams
b. increase growth & bottom line value from within thereby improving commercial resilience

Clients include UK Parliament, Harvey Nichols, the IPO, Rambert School, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, Not on the High Street, D&AD, Soho House, CreativeUK to fast-growth SMEs across the creative, cultural and tech sectors, finding new markets or media to deliver the best results in places and spaces many  have never considered.

Erica was also lead Creative UK's Creative Enterprise ground-breaking Female Founders Scale-up Programme, now in its third year. Funded by the BFI and National Lottery, this acclaimed 7-month programme supports screen-based narrative company founders producing VR, film, games, XR, tv, audio, createch, branded content and apps. A rich mix of high-level workshops interleaved with intensive 1-2-1 business growth coaching, its alumni is taking the creative sector by storm.

Regularly invited to speak and run workshops around IP and growth at events, conferences and for membership organisations, both in the UK and internationally.
Erica is on the Advisory Board of four screen content production companies who's work encompasses game creation, app development, film and television production for both UK & international markets and branded content.

The author of 5-star rated business growth book 'Simple Tips, Smart Ideas Build a Bigger, Better Business' - a finalist in the 2020 Business Book Awards. Forbes.com refers to Erica as a 'leading business growth and innovation expert'.


Simple Tips, Smart Ideas offer

Listeners  can get either a copy of the book or a digital version from www.lola-media.co.uk , clicking through to the ’shop’ page

Please use discount code NAAFI20, at checkout either on the book or the digital version.

Nature or nurture? When it comes to resilience and adaptability, some people develop the traits early in life. If we all had an easy life there would be no need to be resilient?

Rach Wiliamson, is an RAF Veteran, who before joining had to shift her energies into a different pathway after her Olympic dream disappeared, joining the RAF to 'see what would happen'. 

Another setback, another layer of resilience and change required,  with retraining to a new trade due to a training injury early in her RAF career. we discuss the journey through career change, overcoming adversity and always bouncing back. 

The journey so far, is impressive to say the least:
RAF Representative Rugby, Invictus Games Gold Medallist, Invictus Team UK Captain, Help for Heroes Ambassador, Recover Support Officer Royal British Legion, Role Model.
Of all my guests, this is a fantastic insight into setting goals, moving forward and finding a new purpose.

Please like, comment, share to anyone with a Forces connection or who needs inspiration!

#Resilient #RoleModel #AdaptiveSports #BounceBack #RAF #InvictusGames #IAM

It seems like a milestone to reflect on and summarise what has been shared on the NAAFI Break podcast so far.
The original aim was to shine a light on the transition from the Military into a successful second career, this still remains the purpose. The guests and topics covered, have taken me to uncover some fantastic insights and life stories, that highlight the impact on the person, their families and showcase the incredible skills and traits our Service Leavers and Veterans have.

I also signpost new listeners to past episodes and themes that stand out, although every episode and guest has added valuable stories to the mix.

I have used this episode to pose some questions and thought provoking ideas, to you the listener. What I really want to get in return are your thoughts and reflection of your own situation and Transition journey. Please leave a comment or email me directly dominic@joboppo.co.uk.

Please share to anyone with a Forces connection, globally,

#podcast #veteran #military #insights #livedexperience

The transition from the military to second career has given me a host of angles to explore through the podcast guests.  With the lived experience of our Veteran. as well as the impact on family NAAFI Break has highlighted the resilience, adaptable nature and resourcefulness of our Veteran community
Trevor Webster combined an RAF career with sporting achievement and took a punt on an overseas adventure that hasn't stopped yet. 
Now living in Japan he provides a great insight into how he approached his second career.

Please follow like and share to anyone with a Forces connection 

A share from my other podcast Changing Gear with JobOppO and my day job. This episode encapsulates the continued Service that we feel and why it’s important to the Veteran and Service Leavers Community.

Honest, raw and insightful Johnny Mercer is an great advocate for the Veterans and Service Leavers  cause.

Ellen Plumer, enjoyed career success, the highs and the rewards, but gave it up and went travelling. On returning to the Uk took a job in the 3rd Sector as a stop gap. Almost 20 years later she is Head of Employer Services and Partnerships at Ben Automotive Industry Charity and a Trustee of Scottys Little Soldiers the charity for bereaved military children and young people.

We chatted about the parallels between military skills and those needed in the 3rd Sector and the work as a Trustee for Scottys Little Soldiers, that we are both part of. 

Could your next role be in the 3rd Sector after the Military?

#GoodPeople

100 episodes after Andrew Rose, former RAF PTI and colleague appeared on the opening episode of the NAAFI Break podcast, episode 101 brings his son Tom Rose onto talk about facing the premature end to a budding professional football career.

The pathway to be a property and investment business is a squiggly one, but the resilience and willingness to make sacrifices is very similar to those leaving the Military.

Tom gives his memory of being a forces kid, moving, settling and being independent away from home, before his future career was abruptly ended.

His work with footballers and high net worth clients has some lessons for Service Leavers and Veterans when it comes to handling finances!

Some great lessons and advice for our Community.

A chance meeting, taking the rise out of each other within 60 seconds, it’s almost a sport, but in reality it’s the mutual respect between Veterans. So when I first met Paul Breen at the inaugural Berkeley Marathon UK, it was a typical Army to RAF conversation.

Here is an Army Veteran, Kings Royal Hussars, who has faced the challenges around transition which initially took him on a downward spiral. His marriage suffered and his own health and well-being too. However his Army career gave him the resilience to make changes and say to himself ‘ I got through that, I can get through this’

Resilience 
Adapatability
Willingness to get the job done
Can do attitude 

A great insight into the reality for many Veterans when they leave behind a whole being existence and start a new career.

Please comment and share to anyone with a Forces connection 

* Apologies that the sound quality is less than usual.

This week I speak to Military Spouses who formed a Team to take part in retracing the steps of the daring Special Forces WW2 mission immortalised in the film of the same name ‘Heroes of the Telemark’

Jen Macmillan, Alix Mackay and Joanna Young explain their own ‘Why’ for taking part, the experience and the legacy of being on the challenge.

Truly insightful, inspiring and a call to arms to all Military Spouses to keep your own identity.
https://www.forceswiveschallenge.org/heroes-of-telemark 
Please like, comment or share to anyone with a Forces connection.

#inspiration #identity #challenge #militaryspouse #team

When I started NAAFI Break, it was always to speak to the 'Above Average Joe's' (my definition)  who go about their business, achieve success and help others in the Military to Veteran transition. I am always drawn to the stories of those who have decided to 'Give Back' and what the difference is between those who move forward and upwards, versus those who struggle and become angry about their Military career,  due to a lack of progress or promotion. The attitudes and mindset shift is fascinating to me.

What is it that drives us to make changes and lead to a successful transition?

Will Stone brings, gritty, honest and energetic insight to the NAAFI Break.

Please comment, and share to anyone with a Forces connection

In this episode I peak to Roxanne Brind, RLC Army Veteran about joining a family, where the MIlitary Wives took on the role of surrogate mother to the young single soldiers on base in Germany and how that feeling of family was hard to find on leaving the Army. 
We discuss the changing of priorities and trying to settle her children in one area.

Roxanne articulates really well the challenges of recognising her own value in the next phase of her career.

Every guest on NAAFI Break brings their lived experience and their personal truth around the transition from the military into a second career. Some follow traditional pathways, some go on a squiggly path,  others go cross country so to speak, but they all achieve success. It is these lived experiences we hear what drives the successful ones! Success is not a metric based on salary or money made, it can be about finding peace, surviving and thriving after trauma or simply giving back to others. Every now and then you hear a nugget, or little gem of advice or insight that can help you on your journey. 
Adam Gornall is all about Transformation and this episode promises to stoke the fires and stimulate you to think about who you are and how that impacts your life going forward. Please like, comment or share and leave some feedback for me.
Dominic O'Sullivan 
Host


 About Adam
Meet Adam Gornall, a true alchemist of personal transformation. With a background as dynamic as his spirit, he's journeyed from the Royal Marines to the boundless seas and beyond, harnessing the magic of human potential along the way.

Adam is no ordinary advocate; he's a force for change, a catalyst for healing, and a beacon of hope. His heart beats for veterans, and he's the Co-Founder of Save A Warrior UK, where he helps veterans rediscover the light within themselves. Through his vision, he's woven a tapestry of success in the art of saving lives.

Adam's mission? To empower both men and women to heal, to transform, and to reclaim their sovereignty.  Get to know Adam on this podcast