True Blue Conversations Podcast

On this week's podcast, I speak with Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs) veteran Emma Donaldson. Emma served for 20 years, both full-time and as a reservist. Emma served in several units throughout Australia. Emma served at 152 Signal Squadron attached to the Special Air Service Regiment in Perth. Emma excelled in her role and would later meet her future husband while serving at 152 Squadron. Emma is a veteran/wife, Mother and the first I have interviewed talking about the role of wives and children back at home while their partners are deployed overseas. Emma met and is married to Mark Donalson VC. Mark served in the SASR and was awarded the Victoria Cross for his action in combat in Afghanistan in 2008. Emma talks openly about the day she found out that Mark would be awarded the highest bravery award, the Victoria Cross. Emma talks about the good and the bad aspects of the Victoria Cross on families. Emma supported Mark through 7 tours of duty while balancing home life as a full-time Mum. Emma also talks about how important the support of the wives and partners is while their partners are deployed. Emma speaks about the loss of friends, her postnatal depression, and her miscarriage, the struggle that all veterans and first responders face when transitioning out of uniform. Emma also talks about rediscovering her identity and purpose as a civilian. Emma now works as a Veterans Liaison Officer for Legacy Club Services, advocating for veterans and their families. This is a raw and honest chat about the true cost of service as a veteran and life at home supporting your partner of a special forces operator and rediscovering yourself post-service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Emma Donaldson Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with former US Marine / Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Officer / DEA Agent Bret Hamilton. Bret served in the US Marine Corps as a commissioned Officer. Bret deployed in the 1 st Gulf War. Bret left the Marines and, still having a willingness to serve, he joined the Charlotte–Mecklenburg Police Department as a Patrol Officer. After a couple of years, Bret applied and was accepted to join the DEA Drug Enforcement Agency. Bret worked undercover and worked throughout the US. In 2009, Bret became a member of the Foreign Deployed Advisory Support Team (FAST). Bret deployed to Afghanistan in 2010; he was promoted to team leader after his first tour. In 2011, Bret deployed for his second tour to Afghanistan, working with Task Group 66. On this deployment, Bret was shot in the ass. After Bret recovered from being shot, he deployed in 2012 for his third and final deployment to Afghanistan. There, he met and worked alongside Heston Russell team commander of November Platoon. Bret continued to work in the DEA and was the Agent in charge in the state of Alabama. Recently, an interview conducted with Journalist Mark Willacy was used in the case against Heston Russell. Willacy changed what Bret said in the interview. Bret actually said he had nothing but high praise for Heston and the Commandos, and they were some of the most professional soldiers he ever served with, not what Willacy stated that he never wanted to work with Commandos and Heston. This is a raw and honest account. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Bret Hamilton Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with Special Air Service Regiment & Australian Federal Police veteran Doug Sheridan, Doug enlisted in the regular army in 1991, posting to 5/7 RAR. In 1997, Doug attempted and completed SASR selection. He served 33 years in the Australian Army and Special Operations in both full-time and reserve capacities. During his service, he deployed to various locations, including Tonga, Malaysia, East Timor, the Solomon Islands, and Afghanistan. Additionally, he served with the United Nations in West Sahara. He also served for 10 years as a Federal Agent with the Australian Federal Police (AFP). Doug talks about reaching rock bottom, having suicidal ideations, and losing purpose. The steps he took to find purpose again. This is a story of true grit, determination, courage, and owning your mistakes and succeeding at the elite level. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Doug Sheridan Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this weeks podcast, I'm joined by Victorian Police Sergeant Mark Thomas and the founder of the Code 9 Foundation. Mark joined the Victorian Police in 1996 and has spent over 29 years in the force. However, over the course of his career with the Victorian Police Force, Mark had attended many distressing scenes and usually recovered well, that is, until he was called out to a suicide.  Nearly a decade later, the situation came to a head, and Mark was hospitalised. During this period, he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Mark is the founder of the Code 9 Foundation. The Code 9 Foundation provides a place of support for current & veteran professional first responders & 000 operators who live with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions that result from their service to the community. Mark talks about the hard road back. This is a deeply personal story, one of true resilience and overcoming adversity, and finding peace and light at the end of the dark tunnel. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Mark Thomas Editor: Kyle Watkins

True Blue Conversations is inclusive of all stories. On this podcast, I speak with Zach Rolfe BM. Zach is a former infantry soldier from the 1st Battalion Royal Australian Regiment and Northern Territory Police Officer. In 2010, Zach enlisted in the Australian Army, serving in Afghanistan with the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. Zach discharged from the Army in 2015. Zach applied to be a Police Officer and was accepted by the Northern Territory force, enrolling at the academy in Darwin in May 2016. Zach graduated as dux of his squad and was posted to Alice Springs in Central Australia – his first preference. In December 2016, during his first week with the NT Police, he rescued two tourists from flood waters near Alice Springs, for which he and a colleague were awarded the Bravery Medal in 2018. In the same year, Zach was awarded the Hong Kong Bravery Medal, becoming the first foreigner honoured by the Hong Kong government.  He joined the Alice Springs Immediate Response Team (IRT) in November 2017. On the 9 th of November 2019, Zach was sent to a remote community to serve an arrest warrant for a young Aboriginal man named Kumanjayi Walker, who was an offender with a history of offences. He was shot by Zach and later died during an attempted arrest in Yuendumu, Northern Territory, after Walker had stabbed Zach with scissors and threatened to kill Zach and his Partner. Four days after the incident, Zac was charged with murder. In 2022, Zach was found not guilty of murder. This is a complex story that needs to be heard. In this podcast, Zac talks about the shooting, losing his purpose and identity, and the mental toll this has taken on him and his family. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Zach Rolfe BM Editor: Kyle Watkins

On todays podcast, I speak with Keith Payne VC, AM, the oldest living recipient of the Victoria Cross in the world. From the battlefields of Korea, Malaya, and Vietnam to the struggle for veterans welfare, Keith Payne has never shied away from a fight. More than 50 years ago, this bravery saw him receive the Commonwealths highest military honour - the Victoria Cross. Keith grew up one of thirteen children in the shadow of the Great Depression and the Second World War. After seeing his father come home wounded from war, Keith joined the army. He was sent to fight in Korea at just 18 years old, the bloody beginning to decades of military service across the world. Keiths life was defined by one night in 1969. In the dark jungle of Vietnam, under heavy enemy fire, Keith returned to a fled battlefield to rescue 40 of his soldiers. For his extreme act of bravery in leading his men to safety, Keith became the last Australian to earn the VC for 40 years. Keith spent decades in the public spotlight while struggling with his own demons, then found a new purpose as an advocate for others. In a lifetime of service, he has helped not only veterans of foreign wars but also Indigenous diggers and communities left behind by civilian and military bureaucracy.  On 24TH May 1969, in Kontum Province, Warrant Officer Payne was Commanding 212th Company of 1st Mobile Strike Force Battalion when the battalion was attacked by a North Vietnamese force of superior strength. Under this heavy attack, the indigenous soldiers began to fall back. Directly exposing himself to the enemys fire, Warrant Officer Payne, through his own efforts, temporarily held off the assaults by alternately firing his weapon and running from position to position, collecting grenades and throwing them at the assaulting enemy. While doing this, he was wounded in the hand and arms. Despite his outstanding efforts, the indigenous soldiers gave way under the enemys increased pressure, and the Battalion Commander, together with several advisors and a few soldiers, withdrew. Paying no attention to his wounds and under extremely heavy enemy fire, Warrant Officer Payne covered his withdrawal by throwing grenades and firing his own weapon at the enemy who were attempting to follow up. Still under fire, he then ran across exposed ground to head off his own troops, who were withdrawing in disorder. He successfully stopped them and organised the remnants of his and the second company into a temporary defensive perimeter by nightfall. Having achieved this, Warrant Officer Payne, of his own accord and at great personal risk, moved out of the perimeter into the darkness alone in an attempt to find the wounded and other indigenous soldiers. He finally collected forty lost soldiers, some of whom had been wounded and returned with this group to the temporary defensive position he had left, only to find that the remainder of the battalion had moved back. Undeterred by this setback and personally assisting a seriously wounded American advisor, he led the group through the enemy to the safety of his battalion base. His sustained and heroic personal efforts in this action were outstanding and undoubtedly saved the lives of a large number of his indigenous soldiers and several of his fellow advisors. Warrant Officer Payne's repeated acts of exceptional personal bravery and unselfish conduct in this operation were an inspiration to all Vietnamese, United States, and Australian soldiers who served with him. His conspicuous gallantry was in the highest traditions of the Australian Army.  Victoria Cross citation published in The London Gazette, 19th September 1969 Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Keith Payne VC AM Editor: Kyle Watkins

On todays podcast, I speak with Australian Royal Navy Veteran Karney Armstrong. With over 11 years of service as a medic, Karney's journey is one of resilience, courage, and transformation. During her career, she faced extraordinary challenges—including a life-saving rescue when she treated a civilian attacked by a shark off Garden Island, WA, just shy of completing her Advanced Medics Assistant Course. Her dedication and quick thinking in that moment exemplify her bravery. Despite her service, Karney faced personal battles, including PTSD, OCD and anorexia, all while managing young motherhood and deployments. Drawn to healing, she turned to yoga to reconnect with her body and calm her nervous system. After years of training, she achieved a historic milestone as the first female from Australia to medal at the Invictus Games in 2023 in Germany—winning gold in a race chair and silver in seated shot put. With her loyal service dog Ivy by her side, Karney now dedicates her life to helping other Veterans and First Responders. She is an upcoming author, trauma-sensitive yoga instructor, and is often seen on both the News and state newspapers advocating for Veterans and First Responders, proving that healing is possible—that true strength lies in community and service. Join us as we explore her inspiring story of resilience, recovery, and purpose—because Veterans helping Veterans is where the magic is! Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Karney Armstrong Editor: Kyle Watkins

On today's podcast, I speak with Todd Bowler from, Western Australian Police Tactical Response Group Veteran. Todd has 23 years of combined Police experience, consisting of general duties, close personal protection, and undercover work, with 15 years of experience as a Team Leader and Senior Instructor with the WA Police Tactical Response Group, Todd has led high-risk operations ranging from shootouts with armed criminals to arresting the Claremont Serial Killer and billion dollar drug busts. He's worked deep undercover and provided close personal protection for U.S. Presidents and members of the British Royal family. After 23 years in the Police, Todd decided to transition back to the civilian world. Like most veterans and first responders, Todd found it hard to transition after living a very kinetic life, as all first responders live when they are serving. Todd has found purpose after service. He is now a keynote speaker and is working overseas. This is a story of true grit, determination, and never giving in. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Todd Bowler Editor: Kyle Watkins  

On todays podcast, I speak with Australian Special Forces Veteran Nick Caldwell. Nick spent 12 years in the military. Nick started his career in the Army Reserves before deciding to go full-time. Nick served 6 years as an SAS operator and 4 years as an Australian Commando with 4 RAR Commando. Nick's military career was cut short due to the kinetic high-tempo lifestyle of a special forces operator. Nick was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Nick was medically downgraded and made he hard decision to discharge from the job he loved. Nicks operational service included deployments throughout the Middle East and Southeast Asia, Iraq, and East Timor. Since leaving the army, Nick has established two companies as a founding Director, The Mill Gym and Omni GeoX, and a new fitness competition, the Tier-1 Games. Throughout these endeavours, Nick has provided risk management, leadership, and elite-level performance consulting in austere environments globally, including multi- national corporations, government, and non-government organisations. Nicks charter is to build real-world resilience amongst individuals and a no- compromise culture for excellence. Nick is an example of resilience; no matter what life throws at you, its how you overcome these challenges. Nick lives his life like the motto of the SAS: Who Dares Wins. Nicks story is one of true grit and determination and never giving up. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Nick Caldwell Editor: Kyle Watkins

On todays podcast, I speak with Australian Army Black Hawk and Chinook helicopter veteran Kevin Humphreys. Kevin is an inspiring and transformative international keynote speaker, mentor, and author. He's well-known for smashing stereotypes and transforming self-leadership. Graduating top of his pilot's course at just 21, Kevin went on to serve in the Army for 20 years flying Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters. He deployed on numerous overseas operations. In 2006, Kevin was one of the Chinook pilots who flew in under fire into a hot HLZ to pick up the Canadian Special forces in the battle of DA Nile. 24 Commandos were left on the ground facing 300 Taliban. Head back to listen to episode 100 with Craig Hamburger, he was one of the 24 Commandos on the ground that day, and speaks about the respect he has for Kev and the other Chinook pilots that day. Towards the peak of his career, Kevin contemplated suicide and suffered a breakdown due to a cocktail of mental illness, alcohol abuse, and a toxic culture. Kevin not only got back on his feet but also back in the air again, spending the next ten years as a Search and Rescue helicopter pilot, flight instructor/examiner, Chief Pilot, and Director of Operations. Kevin was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his command and courageous leadership under fire in Afghanistan. Kevin was also recognized as the role model for the most recent Military Order of William recipient in the Netherlands (their oldest and highest honour). His impact as a mental health advocate and founder of COR INFINITUS, which gives dignity and respect to the families of those who have served their nation and taken their own lives, was also recognized with the award of a 2023 Community Citizen of the Year. Kevin is the Mental Health Ambassador for AIRBUS Australia Pacific. This is a powerful story of finding peace and redemption. www.corinfinitus.org www.kevinhumphreys.com.au Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Kevin Humphreys Editor: Kyle Watkins

Who Dares Wins On today's podcast, I speak with Australian Special Forces Special Air Service Regiment operator, retired, Regimental Sergeant Major RSM ( RET) Wayne Weeks. Wayne joined the military in 1988, after completing year 12, and served a total of 33 years.  Wayne started out his career in the Corps of Signals for the first couple of years, and during his time at Signals, Wayne attempted and passed selection in 1992, after which he completed a series of specialist courses that were required to become a qualified operator. Wayne spent a couple of years in the UK (Special Boat Service) and deployed with them and SASR, with 15 overseas deployments with SASR. From Kuwait, Timor, Iraq, Afghanistan, Solomon Islands, Cambodia, and Bougainville and other places throughout the world, he managed peacekeeping efforts and stabilisation operations across multiple task missions. After 33 years of service, Wayne discharged from the army and moved into the corporate world, now working as the COO for Executive Risk Solutions, Wayne still serves in the Army Reserve. Recently, Wayne, with other SASR operators, has just wrapped up the documentary Bravery & Betrayal. The True Story of the S.A.S. in Afghanistan After 9/11, our Nation sent the Aussie S.A.S. into harm's way to protect us. 25 years later, their suffering continues. The S.A.S. now tell their story of what really happened in Afghanistan and Iraq. Featuring exclusive, never-before-seen interviews with officers and soldiers of the S.A.S. As Prime Ministers Rudd, Howard, and Abbott tell for the first time what they knew, and the brave pilots of the American Army reveal what they saw. Most heartbreaking of all are the stories by the wives, mothers, widows, and children left behind. This is their story, in their words, of the S.A.S. in the War on Terror.   Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Wayne Weeks Editor: Kyle Watkins

On todays podcast, I speak with Ben Hosking. Ben worked for 11 years with the Northern Territory Police Force. Ben started his career as a general duties officer before specialising as a Tactical Police Officer in the TRG. In 2015, Ben completed the highest level national qualification in the Australian Police curriculum for Dignitary Protection, to enable him to plan operations supporting internationally recognised dignitaries, as well as train specialist law enforcement officers in dignitary protection. Throughout his career, he has earned several accolades, including the prestigious Commissioners Commendation for demonstrating exceptional conduct. This recognition was bestowed upon him for his decisive actions in employing lethal force to apprehend an offender who had attempted to murder a fellow police officer in the line of duty. In 2017, he moved from Policing into the private sector to work with a range of Executive Protection clients who are categorised as Ultra High Net Worth individuals before moving into the private sector, Ben has since worked across the industry providing Executive Protection in locations throughout the Asia Pacific region, including: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Malaysia and managed operations in the Philippines, Singapore, and Brunei. Ben works in the executive protection field and currently works for Panoptic Solutions. During his free time, Ben dedicates himself to mastering Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. As a blue belt practitioner, he achieved the Gold Medal in the ultra-heavyweight division at the Australian Open Brazilian Jiu Jitsu National Open competition. He currently holds a Blue Belt. Beyond his athletic pursuits, Ben delves into the teachings of Stoicism and finds inspiration in William Ernest Henleys poem "Invictus". He is a dedicated husband and father. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Ben Hosking Editor: Kyle Watkins

On todays podcast, I speak with 1 RAR / Australian Special Forces SASR regiment veteran Troy Simmonds. Troy had a decorated career that included deployments to Somalia, East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan, he was also a member of the domestic counterterrorism team TAG West. As a kid, Troy always wanted to join the SAS after being given a book when he was little. Troy joined the army in 1991. Troys dream became a reality when he was selected to join the Perth-based SAS Regiment in 1996. Troy joined the SASR during one of the most operationally active periods of its history. As well, he was a member of TAG for the Sydney Olympics in 2000. In 2008, while in 3 SQN, Troy was the Patrol Commander of the lead patrol in the battle, known as the Battle of Khas Uruzgan, which was one of the bloodiest engagements involving Australian troops during the Afghanistan campaign. Nine in his team of thirteen were wounded in action against a Taliban force of over 150 over the 2-hour battle. It would result in one of Troy's team, Mark Donaldson, being awarded Australia's first Victoria Cross in 40 years. Troy was wounded three times in that furious battle and still has a Taliban bullet in his pelvis today. In 2012, after 22 years of service, Troy discharged from the Army. In post-service life, Troy now works as a Safety manager for an international offshore marine company. Troy was President of the Western Australian branch of the Australian SAS Association. Currently, he is Assistant National Secretary of the SAS Association National Executive. Troy is deeply involved and passionate about the challenges and opportunities faced by veterans. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Troy Simmonds Editor: Kyle Watkins

On today's podcast, I speak with Australian special forces 2nd Commando Regiment veteran Andy Steele. Andy had a decorated career that included deployments to East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and also serving in the domestic counterterrorism team. Andy joined the army at the age of 17. Andy marched into 4RAR in 2000, he went on selection at 17.5, making him one of the youngest to successfully pass the Commando selection and reinforcement cycle. During this conversation, we discuss the impact of being the team commander during the tragic live fire training incident of Mason Edwards that still weighs heavily on Andy. We spoke of the loss of one of Andy's close friends, the late Cameron Baird VC MG. Andy was on the ground in 2008 when Jason Marks was killed, a day Andy said he was lucky to survive himself. For more about that day, go back and listen to episode 81, Jordan McCallum, and episode 100, Craig Hamburgers recollection of that day. After Andy discharged from the Army, he went contracting in Afghanistan and around the world. Andy talks about how faith has helped him find peace and purpose after service, This is a raw, honest powerful two-part episode. A true story of resilience and redemption. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Andy Steele Editor: Kyle Watkins

On today's podcast, I speak with Australian special forces 2nd Commando Regiment veteran Andy Steele. Andy had a decorated career that included deployments to East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and also serving in the domestic counterterrorism team. Andy joined the army at the age of 17. Andy marched into 4RAR in 2000, he went on selection at 17.5, making him one of the youngest to successfully pass the Commando selection and reinforcement cycle. During this conversation, we discuss the impact of being the team commander during the tragic live fire training incident of Mason Edwards that still weighs heavily on Andy. We spoke of the loss of one of Andy's close friends, the late Cameron Baird VC MG. Andy was on the ground in 2008 when Jason Marks was killed, a day Andy said he was lucky to survive himself. For more about that day, go back and listen to episode 81, Jordan McCallum, and episode 100, Craig Hamburgers recollection of that day. After Andy discharged from the Army, he went contracting in Afghanistan and around the world. Andy talks about how faith has helped him find peace and purpose after service, This is a raw, honest powerful two-part episode. A true story of resilience and redemption. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Andy Steele Editor: Kyle Watkins

On Todays podcast, I speak with an Australian Army 1 RAR / 2 Cav veteran. This is a story of the tenacity of Linton "HARRY" Harris, joining the army not once but twice, in his quest for purpose. Harry's 1st term of service included deployment to Somalia, Africa, as a 19-year-old. Re-enlisting after a 7-year break, Harry's 2nd term of service included 2 tours to Iraq, resulting in the awarding of the Commendation for Distinguished Service. After service, seeking the quest for a purpose that is often an issue for Veterans, Harry rose to the position of VP of the Tasmanian RSL, only to be betrayed by that organisation, while fighting for the plight of a homeless veteran, leading to a mental breakdown, and suicidal ideation, due to the RSLs treachery. An incredible story that goes to show you don't have to be in special forces to serve at the pointiest end. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Linton "Harry" Harris Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with Ashley Semmens. Ashley spent 18 years in the Australian Navy, enlisting in 2005 into the direct entry program as a Clearance Diver. Ashley deployed multiple times, which included Op Resolute Border Security, OP Manitou, a human remains recovery in Tongan deep waters, and two deployments to Afghanistan on OP Slipper providing Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Reconnaissance to the Infantry combat team whilst on patrol in Afghanistan and during the withdrawal of Afghanistan in 2021.  In 2022, he was medically discharged at the rank of Chief Petty Officer, now he volunteers his time to the Clearance DiverTrust. Clearance Divers (CDs) are the Australian Defence Forces' specialist divers. CD tasks include specialist diving missions to depths of 54 metres, surface and underwater demolitions, and the rendering safe and disposal of conventional explosive ordnance and improvised explosive devices. Ash is about to take on his toughest challenge yet, he has set his sights on becoming the first person to swim the English Channel — in a peculiar backwards manner. To achieve the record, Ashley will need to swim on his back for more than 15 hours, not in a traditional backstroke, but dolphin kicking while facing the sky, with minimal use of his arms. He said preparing for the 34.2-kilometre swim was as much mental as physical. The kicking is effectively how I would work in my previous profession, he said. But as a clearance diver, I will be taking mental resilience into the swim. The channel swim is set for June 2025 and aims to raise money for the Navy Clearance Divers Trust. Good luck, Ash, you got this! This is a raw story owning all your faults and redemption! To donate to the cause, see the link below https://ncdt.org.au/donations/sponsor-ash-in-a-world-first-finning-across-the-english- channel/ Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Ashley Semmens Editor: Kyle Watkins

On today's podcast, I speak with Shane Cav 3RAR and 2nd Commando Regiment veteran. Shane Cav is a veteran of the Australian Defence Force serving 17 years, enlisting into the infantry in 2006. Post training, he was posted as a paratrooper to the 3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment. During his time at 3RAR, Shane deployed to Timor Leste and Afghanistan. In 2011 Shane completed selection and training in the 2nd Commando Regiment to become a qualified special forces operator. Shane deployed on multiple operations as an infantryman and special forces operator, including Timor Lest, Afghanistan, and Iraq. After losing mates on deployments, Shane lost his way after leaving the Army, Shane came to a crossroads in life. At the fear of losing everything, Shane found his faith again, and with the support of his wife and kids, he found purpose after service.     Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Shane Cav Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with Jon Wynn former Commando Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment. Jon's journey in health and fitness started when he was young. He was very active in Athletics and was selected to compete in the World U18 titles in Javelin. Shortly after, he received an injury, which finished his athletics career. Jon played rugby league for a few years and enlisted in the Australian Military at age 20 into the Special Forces direct entry program as a Commando.  Jon was a fully qualified Commando at age 22 and deployed to Afghanistan in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 on highly kinetic operations as part of the Special Operation Task Group Task Force 66. For many years and during his military career Jon battled with a serious alcohol & drug addiction, Jon went in and out of rehab 20 times before he found his new purpose he is now a professional Hyrox athlete away from competing around the world, he is a husband and a father of two, this a raw and honest chat Jon doesn't hold back this is a powerful journey of hitting rock bottom finding purpose and redemption.   Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Jon Wynn Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with former UK 3 Para and current UK Firefighter Andy Williams.  Despite a turbulent upbringing, Andy enlisted in the Parachute Regiment at just 16. Deployed to the deadly frontlines of Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in 2006, he confronted the brutal realities of warfare, engaging in some of the most intense combat witnessed by the British Army since the Korean War. After his military service, Andrew transitioned into domestic counter-intelligence and spent over a decade as a high-risk security consultant, navigating some of the world's most dangerous and unpredictable environments. These harrowing experiences forced him to face not only the physical dangers around him but also the deep, often unseen, psychological scars left by war. Beyond The Drop Zone, takes you on a gripping journey from patrolling the streets of Northern Ireland to war-torn Iraq, coming face to face with ISIS, and engaging in fierce battles in Afghanistan with 3 PARA. This raw and unflinching memoir reveals the psychological toll of combat, Andrew's struggles with mental health, and his fight against a life-threatening illness. It is a powerful account of overcoming immense adversity, finding a path to healing, and discovering the strength of perseverance. Andy is a best-selling author and is passionate about helping veterans' transition and advocates for mental health awareness for veterans and first responders. This is his story, told in his own words.   Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Andy Williams Editor: Kyle Watkins