Navigating the Transition: A Veteran’s Insights on Mental Health and Entrepreneurship in Tech with David Larmour

In this episode of "Neil on Business," host Neil Darling interviews David, a Marine veteran and tech expert. David shares his journey from the Marine Corps to a career in technology, discussing his experiences with deployment, mental health challenges, and transitioning to civilian life. The conversation explores the entrepreneurial mindset, the impact of automation and AI on jobs, and the importance of seeking support. David also highlights his work in IT automation and the value of community and resilience for veterans. The episode emphasizes mental health awareness and adapting to change in business and life.

David’s Background and Joining the Marines (00:02:38) David shares his decision to join the Marine Corps, his early life, and initial motivations.

Marine Corps Training and Early Experiences (00:03:17) Discussion of boot camp at Parris Island, MCT, MOS school, and becoming a data network operator.

Deployments and Overseas Experiences (00:04:41) David describes deployments to Bahrain, Syria, Jordan, and Yemen, and his roles in those locations.

Career Progression and Leadership in the Marines (00:06:26) David talks about his eight-year Marine career, promotions, and leadership philosophy as an E-5.

Physical Injuries from Service (00:07:32) David details the physical injuries he sustained during his service, including shoulder and knee issues.

Mental Health Struggles and Recovery (00:08:10) David opens up about mental health challenges, loss of fellow Marines, and his journey to seek help.

The Impact of Military Culture on Mental Health (00:09:19) Exploration of how Marine Corps culture affects emotional health and the stigma around seeking help.

Transition to Civilian Life and Work-Life Balance (00:12:04) David discusses his transition out of the Marines, working from home, and the importance of community.

Navigating the VA and Disability Process (00:13:22) David shares his experience with the VA, disability ratings, and the reality of service-connected compensation.

Advice for Veterans on Mental Health (00:14:00) David offers advice to fellow veterans about camaraderie, speaking up, and finding support.

Invisible Injuries and the Cost of Service (00:15:12) Discussion on the invisible wounds of war, the expendability of Marines, and the ongoing mental health toll.

Reintegration Challenges and Loss of Camaraderie (00:17:36) David reflects on the difficulty of losing daily Marine camaraderie and adjusting to civilian routines.

Technical Skills and Automation in Networking (00:18:04) David describes his expertise in networking, scripting, and the value of automation in IT.

Programming Languages and Tools for IT (00:19:33) Recommendations on useful scripting languages and tools for network and systems management.

The Impact and Future of AI in Tech (00:20:19) David and Neil discuss AI’s impact on jobs, its limitations, and the future of automation.

AI, Empathy, and Human Connection (00:21:25) Debate about AI as a virtual companion, the lack of true empathy, and ethical concerns.

AI in Robotics and Industry Applications (00:22:54) Exploration of AI in robotics, workplace safety, and the benefits and drawbacks for businesses.

AI, Data Centers, and Energy Demands (00:24:18) Discussion on the infrastructure needed for AI, including data centers and nuclear power.

Future-Proofing Careers in Tech (00:25:37) Advice for veterans and tech professionals on adapting skills for a future with AI and automation.

Cybersecurity and AI’s Role (00:26:09) How AI will change cybersecurity, threat detection, and reduce the need for human monitoring.

David’s Side Business: Epic Hosting (00:27:12) David introduces his automated hosting business, services offered, and how automation streamlines operations.

Contact Information and Business Philosophy (00:28:59) How to reach David for tech help, his business philosophy, and supporting small business growth.

Service Dogs and Personal Life (00:30:22) David shares about his German shepherds, one being trained as a service dog for anxiety support.

Closing Remarks and Gratitude (00:31:02) Neil thanks David for sharing his story, encourages listeners to reach out, and wraps up the episode.

Quotes

  "I lost a lot of good Marines, a lot of good friends, and everything decided to finally catch up with me when I got out of the Marine Corps. And I’ll say it bluntly: it just sucked. I had an overwhelming amount of emotions that I didn’t know how to deal with, because the Marine Corps doesn’t teach you about emotions."

"The Marine Corps teaches you there is an action happening, you are reacting to the action. There is no emotional thing to make that decision. You don’t use your emotions. You do what you’re told, you do what you were trained to do, and you’re an emotionless fighter. So, when you get out of the Marine Corps—and maybe other military branches as well—you have to deal with all that stuff that you tucked away for years. And when it all came up, finally, I had had enough, and I didn’t want to be here anymore on this earth. I asked my wife for help, and she got me the help I needed. Now, six months after going to two different psych wards, I’m in a much better headspace, and I want to be here."

Connect with David Larmore

[email protected]

Connect with Neil Darling

www.ringspaces.com

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

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