Today, Donna sits down with Martin Price, a former civil servant who spent 20 years in the Foreign Office, now known as the FCDO. Martin shares his unique journey from a civil engineering apprenticeship to a fulfilling career in public service, where he travelled to 64 countries, installing IT and security systems in embassies worldwide. He reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his life, including the loss of his mother and the impact of his divorce, which prompted him to transition into entrepreneurship.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The journey from a civil servant in the Foreign Office to becoming an entrepreneur showcases the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities, even when faced with personal challenges.

Effective communication skills are crucial in both public service and business. The ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures enhances professional relationships and fosters collaboration.

Early experiences in network marketing and mentorship shaped a strong foundation for influencing others. Sharing knowledge and experiences can inspire friends and family to pursue their own entrepreneurial ventures.

Travelling to various countries and experiencing different cultures has provided valuable insights into human behaviour and communication styles, emphasising the need for cultural sensitivity in global interactions.

Despite achieving financial stability, maintaining a balance between work and personal life remains a challenge. The importance of nurturing deeper relationships and connections is recognised, especially after personal losses.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was actually in the Foreign Office, and now it's called FCDO. I did 20 years as a civil servant, man and boy."

"I think sometimes you have to take that risk. You have to understand that it's worth taking."

"The world has never been more connected from a technology perspective, and yet as humans, we're so much more disconnected."

"I always wanted to do something. So for me to then fall into a great grounding is a great foundation for anybody that wants to go into business."

"I think it's got the most legs and I think it all hinges actually on communication skills."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

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https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: Donna@lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/