I learnt a lot about leadership throughout my near 17-year military career. Whilst I never thought I had all the answers this has broadened my horizons in amazing ways.

How do I describe David Neal?

LinkedIn asked me if I wanted to endorse him for weapons and I though, hellz yes. This guy is a badass mofo. I’m on board. Dave and his partner Jonathan started Eighth Mile Consulting. Not to be confused with “Eight Mile” by Eminem. Although when I picture them working over there across the pond I like to use this as a soundtrack of their work.

While he sometimes uses language that I don’t understand, I’ve come to realise it’s because I’m an ungrateful colonial. Like, why the hell is every one his mate? And what does he mean when he’s keen to do something? Is that a good thing? I bet it is because he’s a badass.

Dave’s a ginger, and while I should not trust him because of that – I gave him a shot. After doing some extensive research on the peer-reviewed site Urban Dictionary, it turns out the legend gingers have no soul is simply a myth. In reality, their red hair derives from passion – mostly for B rated 90’s and early 2000’s flicks.

After about 45 minutes you will find yourself spewing out all of your deepest secrets, insecurities, and discovering the real reason you are not living to your full potential. He’ll roll with it and chalk it up to authenticity. I chalk it up to drinking too much cheap wine before dinner.

So in summary, Dave’s a hero and I’m proud to be his friend. If you get a chance to work with The Eighth Mile Consulting, my recommendation is you lose yourself in the music, the moment, you own it, you better never let it go. You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow. This opportunity comes once in a lifetime.

Working with Dave reminded me to give myself completely to what I love most – serving others. The more I reflect, the more I realise I want to be like David Neal who has more integrity than most people I’ve met. And he uses it to help others.

Dave once told me I had a good pistol grip and it was the best compliment I’ve ever gotten. So it turns out now I’m a badass too.