Former Army Commando Officer & Minister for Veterans Affairs Johnny Mercer joins me for an honest, unfiltered conversation about war, leadership, and what really shapes you as a young officer.
From passing the Commando Course to surviving Taliban contact after being split from his patrol, this episode goes deep into the reality of soldiering.

We discuss:

• Why Johnny joined the British Army
• Completing the Commando Course
• Deploying on three operational tours of Afghanistan
• Facing the Taliban in close combat
• The moment he was cut off from his patrol and relying on a gunship to survive
• Losing soldiers, leadership pressure, and the cost of command
• Why he went into politics and fought for veterans
• The moral component of leadership, humility, and standards
• His message for the next generation of officers and soldiers

Whether you're preparing for AOSB, heading to Sandhurst, or simply interested in military leadership, this is one of the most powerful and insightful episodes we’ve recorded.

🎙️ About the Podcast

Lessons in Leadership explores what it really takes to lead — in the military, in training, and in life. Featuring soldiers, officers, veterans, and leaders with real experience on the ground.

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