Values are an integral part of our lives. They can be simply spoken or deeply ingrained within us. For John Spencer, a retired United States army officer, values have played a significant role in shaping his life. In this episode, John shares his journey and insights on leadership, identity, and the importance of values.

John Spencer’s military experience has had a profound impact on his life. Although he is now retired from active duty, the military still holds great significance for him as his wife is currently in active service. As a result, John finds himself taking on the role of a pseudo lone parent, navigating the challenges that come with it. He discusses how stoicism has become a crucial part of his parental journey.

One of the key struggles that many soldiers face is finding their identity after leaving the armed forces. John opens up about this issue and shares how his children have played a crucial role in shaping his own identity. He also talks about the role the military played in fulfilling his paternal needs.

Values are the centerpiece of John’s story, and he emphasizes their importance throughout the episode. He reflects on how his decision to join the military was driven by their values around leadership. Additionally, he discusses how his wife’s values align with his own and how they have applied these values in raising their children. John believes that family values and military values are remarkably similar in terms of impact and significance.

Throughout the episode, John shares several key leadership learning moments. From his start in the military to his growth as a leader within its frameworks, he provides valuable insights and perspectives. He also delves into topics such as the role of technology in the military, self-actualization, and the process of writing a book.

To stay connected with John Spencer, you can visit his website, follow him on LinkedIn and Twitter, and check out his podcast, the Urban Warfare Project, available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Plus, if you’re interested in exploring the psychology of happiness, John recommends the book “Flow” by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow the podcast so you never miss a future episode. You can also connect with Sope Agbelusi, the host of the podcast, through her website, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, or by emailing her at hello@mindsetshift.co.uk. Sope is always eager to hear your thoughts and engage with the community of listeners, so don’t hesitate to reach out.