About this episode
Joe engages in a candid conversation with Paul Wilcock, affectionately known as Wilco. The discussion delves into Wilco's early life, highlighting his passion for golf and the dynamics of growing up with three brothers in a hardworking family. As the conversation unfolds, Wilco shares his journey from a YTS in butchery to pursuing his dream of becoming a professional golfer, only to pivot towards a career in the military police after facing setbacks in his initial attempts to join the police force. The episode captures Paul Wilcock's resilience and determination, illustrating how he navigated challenges, embraced opportunities, and ultimately transitioned from military service to a fulfilling career in law enforcement. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, his story serves as an inspiring testament to perseverance and the pursuit of one's dreams. KEY TAKEAWAYS Early Passion for Golf: Paul had a deep passion for golf from a young age, inspired by famous golfers like Nick Faldo and Seve Ballesteros. This passion led him to work as a club professional before he decided to pursue a different career path. Military Career and Training: He joined the Royal Military Police (RMP) after an initial setback in trying to join the civilian police force. His training was rigorous, involving both basic military training and specialised police duties. He quickly adapted to the military lifestyle, despite initial challenges like cleaning toilets and adjusting to barrack life. Service in Germany: Paul was posted to Germany, where he served in Dusseldorf. He appreciated the strong sense of community within the military and the opportunity to interact with a diverse group of people, including German civilians who shared their wartime experiences. Transition to Civilian Police: After serving in the military, he transitioned to a career in the civilian police force. He faced initial rejections but persisted, eventually joining Sussex Police. His military background provided him with valuable skills and experiences that helped him in his new role. Career Progression and Challenges: Throughout his career, Paul faced various challenges, including studying for exams and adapting to different roles within the police force. Despite these challenges, he remained motivated and dedicated, ultimately achieving his goal of becoming a detective and working on significant national operations. BEST MOMENTS "I wanted to become a bacteriologist... but what shattered all that was receiving a letter from the professional golfer there where I used to be a member." "I was gutted. It was the way they did it... being told I wasn't good enough, it really hurt." I think I’m going to give that a go. Because if I can join and show a potential empl