In this captivating episode of the Atom CTO podcast, host Bhairav Patel interviews Nicholas Ealey, an ex-Royal Navy submariner who now works as a right to light surveyor at Point2 Surveyors. Nick shares fascinating insights from his time serving in submarines and how the skills he gained have translated to civilian life.
Nick explains how he got his start in the Navy, initially joining the RAF cadets before switching to the Navy while at university. He describes the intensive training process to become a warfare officer, a leadership role focused on navigation and combat operations.
The conversation delves into what it’s really like to live on a submarine for months at a time, sometimes up to 7 months for Nick. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining routines, staying focused on the mission, and relying on your crewmates. Nick says the key to managing the “98% boredom” is finding purpose in your work and constantly training to keep skills sharp.
As an officer, Nick discusses his role in managing the wellbeing of the crew, especially during long deployments with little contact with the outside world. He explains how the chain of command and “divisional system” provides support, and how open communication and compassion for each other is crucial.
While many imagine the military as rigidly hierarchical, Nick argues that good leadership is more about collaboration than top-down control. He says the best leaders communicate intent and empower their teams to make decisions, only “commanding by veto” when absolutely necessary. Nick believes the corporate world could learn a lot from this more agile approach.
Segueing into his transition out of the Navy in 2008, Nick recounts the challenges of suddenly confronting the global financial crisis as a new veteran. Demonstrating the resilience instilled by the Navy, he describes how he adapted to a series of roles before landing in his current field of right to light surveying. Nick explains how this little-known niche involves evaluating the impact of new developments on neighboring properties’ access to daylight.
The interview ends with a powerful piece of advice Nick would give his younger self: Embrace the hard times, as the most stressful situations are often our greatest opportunities for growth. He urges listeners to keep moving forward and never stop learning, even from our failures.
Overall, this episode offers a unique window into the world of submarines and the valuable lessons the military can offer civilian organizations. Nick’s story of determined reinvention in the face of obstacles will resonate with anyone navigating their own career transitions.
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@ShellbackPhotography Via Twenty20