S1 Ep3: Mike Bates - Building a Wall of Evidence: The Key to Self-Belief and Bravery

Today's guest is the remarkable Mike Bates. He went off the rails as a teenager after his dad walked out of the family home. His search for connection drew him to the commando life of the Royal Marines, where a young Mike found himself in Afghanistan searching for Bin Laden followed by a posting to Iraq.His early lesson in life was how he needed support around him to achieve success. Mike reveals the four qualities of the Commandos that we all can learn from:CourageDeterminationsCheerfulness in the face of adversityUnselfishnessMike left the Royal Marines for a career in counter-terrorism where he trained as a surveillance officer working close to some of the most dangerous people in the country.He left his job to raise money for his local hospital which saved his baby's life. And he decided to do something pretty big! He chose to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean. And raised £137000.How do you deal with a 40ft wave in the dead of night in the Atlantic Ocean? How do you deal with the Taliban waiting for you in Afghanistan? How do you deal with the terrorist wanting to take your life? The answer - the wall of evidence is explained in the podcast.His latest project is 'Unify" to help men become better versions of themselves and define masculinity in the modern age. (insta @unifymen)Mike Bates(insta @mikebates_official)is an entrepreneur, adventurer and motivational speaker.The Be Braver Podcast is presented by Annie Emmerson and Dr Josie Perry.Annie is a former international triathlete and world champion. She's now a broadcaster and motivational speaker. She left school and education at the age of 15 after a family breakdown and that's led to a life of self-improvement.She had a transition from party-girl to a life with purpose after being robbed at knife point. She talks candidly about how she has redefined herself several times.Josie Perry's life first changed when she failed in her A levels which ended her plans to go and study law at a top university. She worked in journalism and communications before becoming passionate about performance psychology which led to a complete career change.So what's your purpose? What's your why? How can we help you on your journey?Thanks for listening!The Be Braver Podcast - because life is not a dress rehearsal. Insta: @bebraverpod