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Declassified

Author: Michael Coates

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Welcome, I'm Michael Coates, a former firefighter and also a former Soldier.

This podcast documents amazing stories from members of the military community.

Our guests include Military Cross winners, athletes, partners of those who have served, high ranking commanders and 'normal' veterans who have gained extraordinary experiences.

By declassifying stigmas and perceptions we wish to open up issues around mental fitness and wellbeing, talk in depth around subjects such as post traumatic growth and delve into human development on a micro level.

Our longterm vision is to provide hope, guidance, support and help for individuals who are suffering from both mental and physical illness or injury.

This is part of the Declassified network and this is Declassified

Awarded Best Interview Podcast and 3rd Best Wellbeing Podcast in the British Podcast Awards 2020
99 Episodes
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Remembrance is a personal time and moment for many within the Military Community. Here we speak about the reality of the 11th of November and what it really means to remember. From the battle fields of the first world war to living life right now. This is Declassified  Featuring: Michael Coates - Military Veteran and Host of the Declassified podcast Ben Taylor - Petty officer and Poet Dr Emily Mayhew - Historian and advisor to the Casevac Club David Wiseman - Military Veteran and Co-founder of the Casevac Club Nick English - Co-founder of Bremont Watch Company  Sean Jones MC - Military Veteran, Awarded Military Cross for Bravery in Afghanistan Levison Wood - Military Veteran and Photographer Helen Helliwell - Civil Servant  and Chair of the AFCFT Andy Mihalop - Military Veteran and Veterans & Allies Lead at Facebook Louise Fetigan - Military Spouse and founder of Little Troopers Jim Cameron - Military Veteran and founder of Mission motorsport Richard Sharp - Military Veteran and CEO of RE:act (formerly Team Rubicon UK) JJ Chalmers - Military Veteran, Invictus games medalist and currently on BBCs Strictly Come Dancing Prince Harry - Military Veteran and Advocate for the Wounded, Injured and Sick Community Maria Hunt - Mother of WO2 Nathan Hunt  Des Fraser - Military Veteran and Co-founder of Combat Pest Control Ash Alexander-Cooper OBE - Military Veteran and founder of the Unsung foundation Nathan Jones - RAF Pilot and Invictus Athlete Dr Dave Henson MBE - Military Veteran and Paralympian  Glenn Haughton OBE - Military Veteran 
In this special episode we record LIVE from the National Army Museum in London.  We talk to a panel of 3 guests about their lives, service, injury and recovery.  A Road to Recovery Special with Harry Parker, Gemma Morgan and Simon Brown https://www.nam.ac.uk More Information - Simon:  https://blesma.org/news-media/blesma-news/2020/on-the-set-of-scars/ Harry: https://www.waterstones.com/book/hybrid-humans/harry-parker/9781788163101 Gemma: https://morganeight.com
Fighter pilot, Distinguished Flying Cross and the power of repetition.  We talk about his operations in Syria and Iraq, what it takes to perform at your best and why preparing for the worst allowed him a shot at a moving target.  We also speak about psychological fitness, mental I’ll-health and his mothers suicide.  From skiing at the Olympics to the speed of sound. Episode 55 - Roger Cruckshank - this is declassified Find Roger on Instagram - https://instagram.com/sos_coaching_ltd?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= And to read Rogers book, Speed of Sound -  https://www.amazon.co.uk/Speed-Sound-Mind-remarkable-making-ebook/dp/B01D0HWCLE
From 'The Carry to The Casevac' we discuss the stretcher-bearers of the First World War.   We talk about their role, kit, training and firing-squads. We also speak about their heroics, constant workload and how they were almost lost to history.   A stretcher-bearer special with Dr Emily Mayhew Also,  For information about the upcoming charity event please visit https://www.justgiving.com/casevac Thank you, Michael 

Episode 54 - James Stott

2022-09-0701:24:43

In this episode we speak with a former Royal Marine who has a talent for magic and a story of war.   We talk about his time in Iraq, seeking more in his life and his time in Afghanistan.   Grief, violence, reflection and adventure.  Episide 53 - James Stott - this is declassified  https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/run-4-ben-gregz?utm_term=ygWabxNp2

Episode 53 - John Fendley

2022-07-2601:32:10

Childhood, suicide, depression and helping other.  In this episode we speak with one of the countries best know sports presenters.   We talk about his Dads National service, understanding mental ill-health and speaking.  Episode 53 - John Fendley - This is Declassified 
4 clips taken from episodes released last year showing how the podcast speaks about wellbeing.  In this audio montage we talk with Keith Abraham, Steve Japp and Alex Seymour about trauma, PTSD, depression, psychedelics and healing
Endurance, cold water, suffering and swimming,  Listen to how Nathan and Michael swam 26.2 miles in 10 degree water. 

Episode 52 - Nathan Dunne

2022-05-1101:21:01

Heroin addiction, childhood abuse, neglect and care.  In this episode we speak with a man whose childhood is beyond words. We talk about his early life in Liverpool, the chaos of addiction, bullying, safety and violence.   We also talk about failure, friendship, fighting and forgiveness.   A truly remarkable conversation that is full of pain and emotion.   Episode 52 - Nathan Dunne - This is Declassified   Nathan is currently walking 1350 miles barefoot. Support his endeavour  here:  https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/walkamileinmyshoes22?utm_source=sms&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=walkamileinmyshoes22&utm_campaign=pfp-sms&utm_term=da4b74e201ae41c3abba41bfba1628f0 Instagram @walkamileinmyshoes22

Episode 51 - Tom Beaver

2022-03-1101:00:32

From building bridges to performance equipment.   In this episode we speak to the founder of BeaverFit. We speak about early life, getting stronger at school and working hard in life.   We also speak about the tragic death of his cousin, endurance sport and using his skills to make a real impact.  Episode 51 - Tom Beaver - This is Declassified  https://www.beaverfiteu.com
Gambling to the point of suicide, getting stabbed for choosing alcohol and the bravery he shows today.  This incredible, brutal and totally open conversation with one of the countries most loved football pundits. We talk about his anxiety, self-loathing, honesty and illness. We also speak about wanting the best for others, especially his family. A Gambling Special, Paul Merson - This is Declassified Pauls new book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hooked-Addiction-Long-Road-Recovery/dp/1472282531/ref=asc_df_1472282531/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=499348480770&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4868330826543593585&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1006906&hvtargid=pla-1271388618630&psc=1&th=1&psc=1 For support: - https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/gambling-addiction/ - https://giveusashout.org - https://www.samaritans.org
From a near death experience as a child to severe domestic violence and the business she runs now.  This episode has been two years in the making and delves into the life of a person with absolute drive and determination for what she believes.  We speak about her loving family, the death of her father and why she will never give up.   Courageous, inspirational, humble and fun. Episode 50 - Heledd Kendrick, This is Declassified https://recruitforspouses.co.uk

Episode 49 - Mau Gris

2021-09-1401:14:44

From Mexico, to Mosul via Afghan and Syria, in this episode we speak with a former Cavalry officer who went from war-fighter to conflict documentarian.  Listen to his childhood dodging scorpions and being educated by monks to his multiple tours of Afghanistan, and life through a 'dangerous' lens as he witnessed and recorded the battle against ISIS.  For further details see:  http://www.threadfilms.co/about Episode 49 - Mau Gris - This is Declassified 
Featuring: Steven Japp Henry Glanz Mau Gris Heledd Kendrick  Paul Merton 

Episode 48 - Steven Japp

2021-07-2001:24:48

From physical injury to a brutal suicide attempt.   In this episode we speak with a former soldier who plummeted into poor mental health following a career in the military and private security.   We speak about his tours, his happy childhood, being sectioned and how he was incorrectly labelled with PTSD just because he had served.   We also discuss how he took his health into his own hands, a journey which led him to magic mushrooms and meaningful employment.  Episode 48 - Steven Japp - This is Declassified 

Episode 47 - Sivan Hurmuz

2021-07-1301:14:06

Born in the ancient city of Mosul, Iraq in this episode we speak with a former Iraqi soldier who escaped the Saddam regime in 1997.   We speak about going AWOL, capture, torture, the death sentence and his great escape. We also talk about the death of his mother and what life was like as a child and what life is like now in the UK.   From soldier, to refugee, to British citizen.   Episode 47 - Sivan Hurmuz - This is Declassified 

Episode 46 - Keith Abraham

2021-07-0601:27:55

From Paratrooper to Heroic Hearts UK.  In this episode we speak with a former member of the Parachute Regiment about how a 'drink' changed his life.   We also speak about addiction, recovery, purpose, conflict and how psychedelic plant medicine can unlock the door to treating those who have experienced trauma.  Episode 46 - Keith Abraham - This is Declassified  https://www.heroicheartsuk.com
Surviving the holocaust by escaping on the last kinder transport.  During this episode we talk about sexual abuse, separation, his family being murdered and compassion.  We also talk about joining the American army, living in a castle and confronting a downed Nazi pilot in West London. Episode 45 - Henry Glanz Read Kate Thompsons article in the mirror here - https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/im-celebs-gwrych-castle-safe-23081047

Episode 44 - Alex Seymour

2021-06-1501:29:41

The Psychedelic Marine.  Following a brutal tour of Afghanistan and a chaotic childhood Alex looked for alternate medicines and therapies to help support his wellbeing.   We speak about life, joining the Royal Marines (twice), being a father and how a 'trip' down the Amazon River changed his life.  Alex's book is available at: https://smile.amazon.co.uk/Psychedelic-Marine-Transformational-Journey-Afghanistan/dp/1620555794/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Psychedelic+Marine&qid=1623791023&sr=8-1 Please also check out: https://www.heroicheartsproject.org https://www.heroicheartsuk.com and https://maps.org

Save The Children Special

2020-11-2601:03:31

In this episode we speak about the true impact conflict has had , is having right now and will have in the future in relation to children.  We also speak about what members of the Military community are doing to support those young people who have been blown up, lost limbs and are now facing a life of uncertainty.  Talking about the links between Save the Children and the Centre for Blast injury Studies provides great hope for the lives of those most vulnerable - Children in conflict. For more information please visit : Centre for Blast Injury Studies Save the Children Those involved with this episode: Guest 1 - Dr Emily Mayhew Guest 2 - James Denselow Guest 3 - Dr Dave Henson MBE Host - Michael Coates
Traumatic nightmares, PTSD, Therapy and empowering those who are suffering.   This episodes delves into Justins PHD and the 'Dream Completion Technique' and its unbelievable results in reducing/eliminating nightmares.  For further information please visit - http://tiny.cc/stop-nightmares-extra
Hear the 15 minute nomination that won us gold in 'Best Interview Podcast' in the 2020 British Podcast Awards. Episode 39 - Stewart Hill Episode 36 - Cassidy Little Episode 37 - Kath Ryan Episode 23 - Dr Dave Henson MBE
To celebrate the 75th Anniversary of VE day we decided to re-release this amazing episode with Dennis. We speak about the start of the war, Dunkirk, fighting in North Africa, becoming a PoW, near starvation, being in hospital in Italy, the fire storm in Dresden and home coming. 
What is COVID19? How does our immune system work against it? How are the lessons identified in the Military supporting the NHS now? And how is Veteran welfare in NHS currently being impacted?   Dr Jonathan spent over 25 years in the Military and deployed all over the world. He is now a civilian General practitioner, associate director for NHS England for Military and Veteran health and he is also the clinical lead on COVID19 for the Royal College of GPs. https://www.nhs.uk
Todays guest is a psychologist who specialising in mental fitness. She has worked at WWTW, H4H, Combat Stress and is the clinical lead on the future HEADFIT project.  We speak about developing good mental fitness using techniques including breathing, nature, the 15 minute rule and a much more.  This podcast includes content funded by the British podcast awards fund an the wellcome trust  We are also the first podcast in the world that includes IRIS audio technology 
Harry Wales is a former Army officer serving in 2 operation tours of Afghanistan. One on the ground in the Household Cavalry and the second as an Apache pilot with the Army Air Corps.  Since leaving the Army he has been a catalyst in the success of many military programmes developing the veteran community including the Endeavour Fund, Walking With The Wounded and of course, the Invictus Games.   He’s been an advocate for societal change regarding mental health supporting  - Time For Change, Heads Together and the upcoming HeadFIT project.   Harry is also a RE:ACT (formerly Team Rubicon) having volunteered in the aftermath of the devastating 2015 Nepalese earthquake.   This episode delves into the qualities of our veteran community and explains what RE:ACT and their veteran volunteers are doing right now to support the NHS and indeed society. @React_response @declassnetwork Features Iris Audio Technology 
99 years old, 100 laps of his garden with the aim of raising £1000 for NHS charities. This proud military veteran surpassed all expectations and is now quite literally raising millions of pounds.   We briefly talk about his service during WW2, why he decided to raise money and his thoughts on the importance of our health service. DC19 Episode 10, we are proud to bring you - Captain Tom Moore  Twitter - @captaintommoore https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tomswalkforthenhs #tomorrowwillbeagoodday
Service, trauma, rehabilitation, employment, family and longterm recovery.    Hear about the amazing work this charity does and why it was originally setup.   WWTW has developed as its grown and its grown into a very niche charity working with some very vulnerable clients.  Walking With The Wounded Special - Ed Parker - This is Declassified  www.walkingwiththewounded.org.uk
Queens Golden Jubilee, VJ day celebrations and the birth of the Invictus games.  This episodes speaks to the man who has brought us some of the biggest live events this country has ever seen. We speak about why he does what he does and the positive impact todays wounded, injured and sick community is having on society right now.  An Invictus Games Foundation Special - Dominic Reid OBE - This is Declassified 
This episode delves into Moral injury.  What happens when our ethical code has been questioned and why that can negatively impact a persons metal health.  We also talk about psychological assessments within the criminal justice system. Moral Injury Special - Prof Neil Greenberg, This is Declassified   This podcast includes content funded by the British Podcast Awards Fund and the Wellcome Trust.
In this episode we speak about the Office of Veteran Affairs. We also talk about the charity sector and how the Veteran community will continue to have a meaningful impact on society, right now and in the future.
Awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross in Fallujah and the Military Cross in Afghanistan.    Our next guest is one of the most inspiring yet humble individuals to grace the Military community in a generation.   His career is nothing short of outstanding yet his heart ache and loss is significant.   We hear about his heroic actions in foreign fields, the team around him and why his tattoos mean so much to him now.  Tribute ink special, Matt Tomlinson CGC MC, this is Declassified
Special Military Units, Gurkha, pilot, musician, sport and being a dad.    In this episode we speak about living with an alcoholic father, thriving in boarding school, joining the military and the impact this has all had on his life.   We also speak about why being a parent is his proudest achievement and why each second with his daughter is incredibly precious. Episode 43, Ash Alexander-Cooper OBE - This is Declassified 

Episode 42 - Stanley Moore

2020-03-2401:10:30

As a child he lived in East London amongst the carnage of the Blitz.     He then became a refugee and moved to Wales where as a young boy he became a coal miner.   Following a traumatic experience he moved back to the East end and witnessed some unbelievable sights.   However, it took him 70 years to speak about what happened in Wales.  Episode 42 - Stanley Moore - This is Declassified 
JUST A WIFE.   A phrase that couldn't be further from the truth.   In this episode we speak about the different sides of the Military. From servicing as a regular to becoming a reservist and life being married to a Soldier.   We also speak about spousal employment and also how the Arts are playing such an important role in changing the conversation and promoting growth & development  @wendyfaux
Influence, assets, failure, UN global goals and why all 4 will help your business making a bigger impact.  In this episode we speak to Daniel Priestley who is a successful entrepreneur, 4-time best selling author, international speaker and advocate for using business as a force for good.  You can find Daniel on social media @danielpriestley

Episode 40 - Des Fraser

2019-12-1201:18:05

Chaos of childhood, stability of the Military, losing friends and family, joining the Special forces and business.     This episodes delves into the link between childhood trauma and PTSD as an adult. We talk about being exposed to violence as a child, losing his dad and sister to suicide, how he nearly ended his own life and why he positively impacts the world with his company now.   A fascinating insight into one of the founders of this podcast and how it has in turn saved his life. Episode 40 - Des Fraser - This is Declassified  @des_fraser
We have re-released Mandy's episode in way of tribute to this absolute warrior.   She was, still is and will continue to be an inspiration to many others with this open, honest and compassionate conversation.   We talk about her early life, joining the British Army aged 16, her operational tours, battling cancer and what will now be her legacy.  Major Mandy Islam MBE, from all of the Military Community - Thank you
Listen to this 15 minute clip that awarded us Bronze in 2020 British Podcast Awards for 'Best Wellbeing Podcast'.  Episode 28 - Mandy Islam MBE MOD Special - Glenn Haughton OBE Episode 40 - Des Fraser 

Episode 39 - Stewart Hill

2019-10-3001:19:281

Traumatic brain injury, Afghanistan, Emotion, Recovery, Family and Art.  Described as in impressive and inspirational leader of men. An infantry officer who tells his story with passion and acceptance  We also talk about how painting helped restore purpose and meaning back into his life.   Please note this conversation could be distressing for some listeners.  For information about Stewarts amazing art please visit - https://www.stewarthill.co.uk  
This is the one we talk about Veteran owned small business .   We speak to Blown Away, Combat Pest Control, Contact Coffee and Hidden Valley Bushcraft.   What does it take to start a company, why purpose is so important and we delve into what is working with regards Facebook advertising.  This is part of the Declassified Network and this is the Forces Friendly Podcast

Episode 38 - Eliot Kennedy

2019-10-2501:14:43

Music, Take That, Spice Girls, Afghanistan and growing up in Yorkshire.  This episodes takes us on the journey of one of the worlds most successful music producers.   We talk childhood, alcohol, domestic violence, purpose, partnerships, his experience in conflict and the power of music.  Episode 38 - Eliot Kennedy - This is Declassified 

Episode 37 - Kath Ryan

2019-10-1501:00:30

Victoria Sponge, Vanilla Slice, Bakewell Tart and a Madeira. This is the incredible and humbling story of the countries best kept secret.   From her childhood in Birmingham, feeding the elderly, becoming a nurse then getting the opportunity to love and care for our most brutally wounded service men and women. But not in the way you'd imagine.  This story starts with a cake and ends with a full generation of wounded injured and sicks total devotion.  Episode 37 - Kath the Cake Lady - This is Declassified 
Royal foundation, Endeavour fund, Heads together and SHOUT.   This episode is all about SHOUT -  24/7 crisis text line that is free, anonymous, clinically supervised and has just launched its Military campaign.   In Crisis - Text Contact to 85258   Want to volunteer or need to know more -https://www.giveusashout.org

Episode 36 - Cassidy Little

2019-10-0801:07:261

Ballet, The Bet, Standup Comedy, The Royal Marines, Afghanistan, Losing his leg and his career in acting.  This is the second account of the same IED strike we have had on this podcast. A fascinating look at how our guests life has developed because of the trauma he has endured.   We talk about cake, friendships, recovery and Hollywood. Episode 36 - Cassidy Little - This is Declassified 
Our sister podcast 'Breaking the Cycle' is now live. We talk about child carers, substance abuse, youth homelessness, neglect, development, rough sleeping, domestic violence, Grenfell and much more.... Two years in the making and expect the same quality content as heard on Declassified. Type 'Breaking the Cycle' or 'Michael Coates' into any major podcast platform. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-the-cycle/id1587695520?uo=4 https://audioboom.com/channels/5061330

Episode 35 - Aldo Kane

2019-10-0101:04:382

Volcanoes, Sniper, Adventure, Royal Marines, Nuclear Bunkers and Climate Change  Our next guest has spent the last 20 years becoming one of televisions go to individuals for safety and access. From his time in the Corps to developing his skills off-shore.   We talk about Iraq, positive habits, human suffering, goal setting and his current work.  Episode 35 - Aldo Kane - This is Declassified 

Episode 34 - JJ Chalmers

2019-09-2401:14:40

Afghanistan ripped him apart physically, purpose and meaning in his life pieced him back together.  This is the remarkable story of a man who typifies what it means to be more than his injury.     We speak about being a Royal Marine Commando, his patrol that sustained huge trauma and the success he has seen in recent years.  Episode 34 - JJ Chalmers - This is Declassified 
Employ Veterans, Educate Children in Conflict, Protect Clients, Support Injured Service Personnel.  Guest host JJ Chalmers talks to the co-founder of Combat Pest Control and host of the Declassified Podcast about why he is so passionate about their 4 point vision.   We talk growth, trauma, education, values, friendships, development, and the positive impact veteran owned business can have on society (and the world).   And remember, it all starts with the a rat and a mouse.  This is Declassified  www.combatpestcontrol.com bookings@combatpestcontrol.com @hqcombat  @michael__coates @declassnetwork @JJchalmersRM www.B1G1.com www.endeavourfund.co.uk
Great to have the legend that is Dave Henson back in the studio to overview a huge range of topics.  Episodes which we summarised including trauma, business, education, Afghanistan, Paralympics, Casevac club, plastic surgery, military and psychiatric history, WW2, Cancer, determination, the greatest war story to come out of the last 20 years, refugees and 2 amazing specials cover the MOD and politics. 
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Comments (4)

Ash Winter

Absolutely wonderful insight into one of the most experienced soldiers, thank you!

Jul 9th
Reply

Dan Newns

informative and inspiring stuff mate, love it!

Jun 28th
Reply

Stuart Taylor

one of my favourite podcasts. I've never been in the forces, declassified gives a brilliant insight into many aspects of military life not just the soldiers. my personal favourites are Marie Butwell's story and how Ziggy saved Richard Mearns life, Ziggy is truly remarkable. The teachings and lessons learned make a good crossover into civilian life. No story is the same and often bring a tear to the eye. Keep up the good work Micheal.

Apr 6th
Reply

Mr Morden

All these podcasts give such amazing view into military life. Doctor Busuttil explanation of PTSD is so easy to understand

Jul 21st
Reply
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