Academic | Performer | Musician | Public Speaker | War Veteran
I have spent my life embracing challenge, discipline, and creativity across multiple fields. My journey began in the world of elite military operations, where I honed resilience, adaptability, and leadership in the most demanding environments. I thrived under pressure, learning to navigate both physical and mental extremes while working as part of a highly skilled team. Operating in some of the harshest conditions, I developed an unbreakable mindset—one that would serve me well in every endeavour that followed.
Pushing my mind as hard as my body, I later pursued a deep understanding of human behaviour, earning a doctorate in psychology. I wanted to understand what drives people, what holds them back, and how they can overcome adversity. Through research, therapy, and practical application, I have helped individuals navigate their struggles, develop resilience, and achieve personal growth. Whether working with military veterans, corporate leaders, or everyday people facing life’s challenges, my goal has always been to provide insight, guidance, and the tools for lasting change. Alongside this, I have shared my knowledge through public speaking, bringing complex psychological concepts to life with real-world experience. I have also documented my academic journey through film and words, ensuring that my work reaches and resonates with a wider audience.
War Veteran
Hello, my name is David Jackson. I’m a former Royal Marine Commando, having served for 21 years before being medically discharged in 1995. During my time in service, I had the privilege of serving in Northern Ireland during the Troubles and participating in the Falklands War. These experiences shaped me deeply, and as I transitioned to civilian life, the values and lessons I gained during my military career continued to guide my personal and professional journey.
Pschotherapy
After leaving the armed forces, I trained as a psychotherapist and spent 15 years working with adolescents and young adults. My work spanned secondary and further education, as well as with the Prince's Trust. I also set up my private practice while continuing to support my academic pursuits. Nowadays, my primary focus is working with veterans and their families.
Psychology Doctorate
While still in the Royal Marines, I began studying psychology with the Open University, earning a BSc (Hons) in 1995. In 2000, I embarked on postgraduate studies, enrolling in a Master’s in Counselling Studies. This was a turning point in my life, where I began to critically explore how veterans and their families are represented in the media, popular culture, and research. This curiosity led me to write an autobiographical dissertation, where I reflected on my personal experiences as a war veteran living in society. In 2006, I began my Doctorate in Education (EdD), focusing on refining my creative research methods. My dissertation culminated in a film about returning to the Falkland Islands 25 years after the conflict. I was awarded my EdD from the University of Bristol in 2010.
Writer
Today, I’m recognized as an expert on the social and cultural narratives surrounding veterans and their families, especially in how creative approaches can retell their stories. I’ve published several journal articles and contributed chapters to two academic books. I also continue to conduct research for the Military Afterlives Project and was involved in the "Stories in Transition" project, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council.
Music
Beyond my academic work, I have a passion for writing, poetry, and music. It was during therapy that I was encouraged to start journaling, and I’ve found it to be a therapeutic outlet for expression and creativity. Over the years, I've written poetry, turned it into songs, and even performed in the play Minefield and appeared in three films. My first short film, What is a Veteran?, marked a significant milestone in my creative journey. Currently, I’m working on a self-funded music project called Threads, which brings together the local veteran community and those connected to my life.
Speaker
My diverse experiences and unique perspective have made me a sought-after speaker, with opportunities to present at events in Argentina, Switzerland, Germany, and across the UK.
For me, creativity through words, music, and performance isn’t just about sharing stories—it’s about offering others a window into my life, allowing them to experience the rich tapestry of events that have shaped who I am today.
War Veteran | Acedemic | Musician | Writer | Public Speaker
