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