NAAFI Break

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/B09M9P1J35https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pkHTOo2NqUAnother 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

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 streamsb. increase growth & bottom line value from within thereby improving commercial resilienceClients 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 offerListeners  can get either a copy of the book or a digital version from www.lola-media.co.uk , clicking through to the 'shop' pagePlease use discount code NAAFI20, at checkout either on the book or the digital version.

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 AdamMeet 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

The NAAFI Break Podcast has covered many aspects of the transition from the military to a second career, always leaning on the 'truth' and lived experience of those who have served or connected to our Veteran Community. That is why when a guest opens up and expresses their emotions, it is a privelidge to bring their story to the wider consciousness. I have often asked guests if they joined to get away from the life they had or to seek a new adventure and it throws up many reasons for joining. This weeks guest is Angus Peacock, Coach, Leader and Royal Navy Veteran who has made the journey from 'The dark side' of Croydon life via the Royal Navy, China and now lives in San Diego. His career in the Royal Navy saw him commission, but it is his post military career that throws up the most interesting insights.The effect of military service can have long lasting impact, not solely through PTSD,injury or medical discharge, but in the perception of self and behaviours that can be both positive and sometimes self destructive. Recognising your strengths and weaknesses is crucial in moving forward effectively.Not every Veteran, was involved in 'Operations' or fired a weapon in conflict, many served during the queiter times in our military history, but still gave up part of their life to serve their country, always prepared to do what was necessary.  It has been uncovered that many left the military because the Operations finished and the thing they most wanted in thier military career was not going to be available. Those that we not in conflict are just as worthy of the title Veteran and deserve recognition.In over 120 episodes not often does the word 'shame' feature in the lived experience of our Veteran Community, but Angus Peacock explains why 'not doing enough' compared to those who served in conflict throws up some interesting points and his personal validation of his militar career and his part in the development of others was a long time coming after he left the Royal Navy.Honest, open and insightful, this conversation was everything I hoped the NAAFI Break would be when it started in 2021.Please like,comment and share to anyone who wants to understand or Veteran Community and the experiences of transition.#Veteran #Podcast #LivedExperience #Coaching #Leadership 

Steven Ferris joined me on the NAAFI Break podcast to highlight his personal lived experiences of joining the RAF as a Physical Education Officer and his goal to forge a career in the Parachuting world.  His RAF career brought him ‘money can't buy experiences' and launched him into his post service career in Leadership and Coaching.His own experiences of Leadership shaped his future purpose and he has now become a contributing Author to a book called ‘Breaking Barriers'  Transformational Leadership Stories from Pioneering Women and Men Inspiring Change.(Links below)Steven, is comfortable when looking back on his RAF Career and acknowledges the part it had in shaping his career. He shares his thoughts around preparing to leave and the strength and support of his wife.An honest and sincere conversation highlighting the personal aspirations and growth through service and beyond. Here are the links for the book: Paperback available here: https://lnkd.in/ecHtv3wX  Kindle version here: https://lnkd.in/eRD3Ye2aPlease like and share to anyone with a military connection.

Leaving the Military is different for everyone, with many distancing themselves initially before feeling the pullback to reconnect or give back to the Veteran Community. One thing that seemed part of our DNA while serving is being physically fit, albeit for some because there was a mandatory fitness test to pass every year. So why do so many people struggle to maintain their daily activity when they leave? I can't profess t have the silver bullet, my own post-service activity has been a rollercoaster of extremes (it's up right now!) My guest this week is Carl Simpson, an RAF Regiment Veteran who has become a Personal Trainer, using his unique lived experience to carve out a niche, appealing to other male Veterans.Carl shared his own lived experience, how he has built his online PT business, and shared some insights and advice for those who have fallen out of love with 'Fizz' and beat themselves up about not being able to do what they used to do.A thought-provoking and insightful conversation for anyone who has left the military but isn't leading their healthiest of lives today!

This week my Guest is Ria Jackson, Blogger, Advocate and founder of The V Word, who I would describe as a ‘Doer'. Using her own lived experience to trigger her drive, to create a safe space for  female Veterans to share their different lived experiences.Bringing the different perspectives into the open, is vital for society, not just exclusively the Armed Forces, to learn how to support the needs of our female Service Personnel both in Service and in the transition to civilian careers.If like me you have daughters, granddaughters or sisters who may decide to join the Armed Forces in the future, wouldn't you want to know they are accepted, supported and treated with respect and with fairness?  I served during period of time (85-99) where I can recall events that were unacceptable then, never mind now. Let's not contribute to the culture of  finding a carpet to sweep it under.  Our female Serving Personnel and Veterans deserve to be heard. I encourage you to follow up with The V Word podcast.Another great guest with unique insights and experiences to share to our community with the hope it helps those coming up behind.Please share to anyone with a Forces connection.#TheVWord#Veteran .

This week my guest is Dorthe Jacobsen, a Dane who has contributed to a series of publications available to the Danish Military to help them understand the impact of their service, deployments etc on their family.It looks through the lens of the children of different ages and highlights how behaviours and experiences can create an aftershock.The implications of the serving soldiers behaviour can be destructive and the books help to prepare both parties for what could happen and ensure good communication within the family.The parallels to the transition are evident. Dorthe has personal experience of this and it was insightful to hear the work that has been done in Denmark Perhaps there is a need to have something similiar in the UK?Please comment if the subject and conversation resonate with you

I'm joined by Peter Lewis, an Army Veteran and Chief People Officer at SuperNova Capital. A Long way from the 16 year old, big fish - little pond, into the Army and a rude  awakening with a dodgy suitcase on arrival at Recruit Training.Peter is a podcast host in his own rite with his ‘give yourself the chat' podcast that is worth checking out too! https://open.spotify.com/show/5PM5xspBqr2QTkhQ3K5qqu?si=iy_A7NHpQteGDFDUgfdYPAPeter provides honest self reflection of how he has learned as much about Leadership since leaving the Army as he did during service, as well as recognising the need to prioritise working on yourself before deciding on the next career move.Another Insightful and authentic share of lived experience from a Veteran.Please like, comment and share to anyone affected by the military transition.#livedexperience #transition #selfawareness

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

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 

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.

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'

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 communityTrevor 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 AdapatabilityWillingness to get the job doneCan 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.

I often get asked about my day job and what the connection is to NAAFI a break. Well it's hard to separate in some ways, as the goal of the NAAFI Break was to shine a light on positive lived experience of the military to Veteran transition and at JobOppO we are always trying to bring the lived experience of Veterans in the ‘Changing Gear' to our OppOs. We talk to those who have successfully managed themselves and others in the 'Changing Gear' and explore the issues that arise and how to negotiate them.So this episode was one I recorded for JobOppo, but I felt it was too good not to share to the wider audience via NAAFI Break. In this episode I speak to Kris Milne, Australian Army Veteran  and champion of Veteran causes, throughout his post military career and about changing the perception of 'being just a Corporal' by the individual themselves and Employers.A great conversation, thought provoking, honest and insightful.You can find this episode and more great guests in JobOppo House App and on our Website Resources.

This weeks guest is former RAF PTI and founder of STAR Development UK Stuart Waddington, who was my interviewer for the 1yr episode of NAAFI Break, so I was delighted to have him back to discuss the journey and his business experiences.An area of career choice that is overlooked by many Service Leavers is Self Employment, but the difference of setting up a business vs Self Employment is not always obvious.Great insights, real lived experience and a little PTI humour.Please share to anyone with a Forces connection who wants to know more about the Military to Veteran transition. Bio Founder of Star Development UK, and host of the “#Leadership – What's on your Mind?” Podcast, Stuart Waddington delivers leadership and transformational development programmes and one-to-one coaching to high performing teams, individuals, senior managers, CEO's and other top performers.  With a strong background in sports that saw him earn a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science, Stuart's interest in high performance and the links between body and mind extend beyond the playing field into the business world and other key areas of life. He continues his mindset coaching and mentoring work with sports teams and elite athletes; but offers his guidance and experience to all seeking to excel. A natural people person, Stuart uses his experience to identify and overcome issues that are preventing people and teams achieving their full potential in any discipline. Stuart left the RAF in 2018 having served 12 years delivering leadership training and physical training to basic trainees, instructors, senior officers and specialist teams across all three of the Armed Forces. He founded Star Development UK to apply his military experience to civilian situations. To build on his experience outside of his “military bubble”, he embarked on a successful collaboration with the University of Cumbria, teaching life skills to students on the cusp of entering the working world. He also engaged with owners of growing businesses who found themselves seeking guidance with the unfamiliar demands of team leadership. He also worked as an associate delivering development training programmes to management teams within multiple government departments. 

We are back from a Summer recess, with a thought provoking conversation with Mike James, RAF Veteran and former PTI, who has established his own business, in his own words, based on his ‘Gut feeling'.It was a surprise that our conversation leaned toward the ability to learn how to deal with suddenly having'lottery' type money. Listen to how two former RAF PTIs delve into the challenges of post military Self Employment and how to build a following on Social Media.mPlease share to anyone with a Forces connection 

NAAFI break podcast is taking a…..NAAFI Break, It's been a busy year and it's time to rebalance with a few weeks break.NAAFI Break will return 3rd September Thanks for your support 

This week my guest on the NAAFI Break podcast is RAF Regiment Veteran Craig Bones, who has developed the skills and attitudes through his time in rugby and the RAF to help him make a successful transition into the travel industry and now running Love Travel Adventures.Great insights and lived experience for those looking at their own transition.Please share to anyone with a Forces connection.

This week on the NAAFI Break podcast  I get the insights, thoughts and lived experience of Navy Veteran Nick Wood, who has developed programmes within the Prison Service and now with York St Johns University.Nick has spent many years, studying ways to improve the transition and integration of Service Leavers & Veterans into society from the Military.  We discuss issues around the emotional adjustment required on leaving the military.Please comment and share to anyone with a Forces connection or looking to employ a Veteran 

With a bonus episode to finish the Ride to Remember and uncover some insights from the Veterans crew who supported me during the 2000+ miles ride around the UK in 12 days.If you are an Employer, understand what Veterans bring to your business.We currently have just under £17000 raised for Scottys Little Soldiers.

This week on the NAAFI Break I talk to Army and RAF Veteran Chris Gore, who's thirst for learning and reinventing himself, that has seen him launch his own business in AV, just in time to capitalise on the global lockdown when everyone needed remote working! Here his experience of the transition from the Military and share to anyone with a Armed Forces connection.

This week, let me introduce you to former Army Kate Mizon, who has faced a rollercoaster of emotions since deciding to leave the Army.We discuss the impact of Covid on separation from the Army and the negotiating the  minefield  of recruitment.An honest, humorous but telling view on the challenges faced by Service Leavers.Please like, comment and share to anyone with a Forces connection,

This week my guest is an Army Veteran with operational tours as a Combat Medic and more post Army jobs than years served. It is brutally honest open and reflective on his Army life, transition and the journey to a better place. It was a privilege to share his thoughts on the NAAFI Break podcast.Please like, share and comment and pass on to anyone with. Forces connection 

This week I speak to a Falklands War Veteran and now Academic who has just returned from performing a stage show based on the experiences of the Falklands War alongside Argentinian soldiers.An insightful and thought provoking conversation that challenges the public perception of how society intergrates Veterans and the impact of Military life on Veterans and their families.Please like, comment and share to anyone with a Forces connection.

As it's. such a big part of the journey I have been on since 2012, this bonus episode highlights the challenge I have set myself over the next 12 days. More important than the ‘What' is the ‘Why'.Chair of Trustees for Scottys Little Soldiers Jason Worthy steps in as host to discuss this challenge, the work of Scottys and what difference we can make to the bereaved children of our British Forces.Please follow the ride on the link and you will find a link to donate too!www.joboppo.co.uk/sullyrideThanks for listening 

This week I explore with Army spouse Joanna McDonnagh the impact of being married to ‘The Army' and how good communication and retaining her own identity have worked to set up the Flying Guardsman in Hadleigh Suffolk. A day and night time focal point for the local village and somewhere for both civilian and military people to feel welcome.The Flying Guardsman is also the location for the local Armed Forces Breakfast Club.

This week my guest is Brian Rogers, who after a distinguished 23 year Army career, he has forged a stellar career in Facilities Management culminating in his own family owned company McArthur Business Solutions.Brian has a lifetime, two careers, full of lessons and advice for the next generation of Service Leavers, that have been gained through his lived experience and can do attitude.We talked about his childhood upbringing and first signs of resilience and strength of character as well as what it means to be a Veteran.Brian has great advice for Service Leavers and Veterans alike.Please like follow and share to anyone with a Forces connection 

This week I speak to Billy Kelly, who after a career in the Army that took him through the ranks and on to commission, finding a blank canvas to work with in a new role in the NHS, as the Head of Armed Force (Programme Lead) at Guys and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust.Translating the experience the Army gives you is a challenge for many, but Billy shares his experience and tips on how to ensure you achieve the right value when you move into civilian employment.Please like, comment and share to anyone with an Armed Forces connection 

This week I talk to Gerwyn Talylor about cultivating a life beyond the Army and how he started the process early. We discuss his attitude to personal development and how he used lockdown to his advantage for his transition.It's true he did referee me in the Guinness World Record Rugby match 2013!Another angle on the military to Veteran transition.Please share with your network and Forces connections

This week my guest is Joe Madden, an Army Veteran, who shares the similarities of Rugby and his time in uniform as well as his ‘duty' in giving back. An honest and open interview where Joe shares his lived experience and advice for others.He is a great example of taking what the military gives us, but not standing still and using it to reach the next milestone of our career.Please share with your network and to anyone with a forces connection.

This week I speak to RAF Veteran Al Edmonds a former RAF PTI and now OU Lecturer.For the first time on the NAAFI Break podcast I had the chance to speak to someone from the LBGT Community about the challenge of being a gay man in the RAF during the 70s-90s. A different time and a different culture within the RAF, but a very honest reflection, from someone who served their country.The Military transition is different for everyone, my aim has always been to uncover the ways different people have negotiated this period in their lives sunder many different circumstances.Please comment and share to anyone who wants to understand more about the Military to Veteran transition.

This week my guest is former RAFRegiment Officer Mike Mason who after choosing the RAF soon realised he wasn't going to be a pilot, but carved out a 20 year career within the RAF Regiment. He has also retained a passion for sport, particularly Rugby, which gave him almost a parallel career a top referee and into a role, post service with World Rugby. He has been involved with High performance Sports teams and is married to an Army Veteran.Great lived experience I had to bring to you.Please comment and share to anyone with a Forces connection.

This week I talk to Dr Caroline Micklewright, Veteran, former RAF Logistics Officer and currently Honoury Research Fellow  on the Military After Lives project with Exeter University.We uncover the ‘not usual' Officer cadet, the challenge of being a ‘Mam' in the RAF with a serving husband and the move into Academic Research. Some fantastic reflections and insights from her lived experience.Please follow, like, comment and share to anyone with a Military connection.

This week I talk to RAF Veteran Lisa Rawlings about succeeding around the old attitudes, that at times are not so old and her move from the RAF to Veteran and Regional Armed Forces Covenant Officer for Gwent?A one person industry in the support and championing of Veterans in her region, Lisa shared her own experiences that shaped her and built her determination to succeed and her resilience to overcome attitudes.Always good to have another welsh voice on the NAAFI Break