Another Mans Shoes

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Ever wondered how a childhood spent on the cliffs of North Wales shapes a world-class rock climber? Tune in as we host the incredible Hazel Findlay, who takes us through her adventurous upbringing with her mountaineer father. Hazel shares heartwarming and inspiring stories, including the unforgettable moment of naming and climbing a new route on her 11th birthday. With genuine warmth, she contrasts her unique, resilient childhood with today's experiences, offering a refreshing perspective on outdoor adventures.

Hazel doesn't just share her past; she enlightens us on the diverse world of rock climbing. From the adrenaline-pumping bouldering to the strategic challenges of sport and traditional climbing, Hazel breaks down each type's technicalities and ethics. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a curious newbie, Hazel's tales and tips—especially those about the UK’s unique grading system—will captivate and educate you. Her passion is palpable, making this segment both informative and engaging.

We then scale the heights of Yosemite’s iconic El Capitan. Hazel dissects the monumental achievements of climbers like Alex Honnold and Lynn Hill, clarifying the differences between free climbing and aid climbing. The episode wraps up with essential gear tips and a look at the growing popularity of e-bikes, making outdoor adventures more accessible to all. Don’t miss out on Hazel’s insights and the exciting guest lined up for our next episode—be sure to follow Hazel on Instagram for a daily dose of inspiration!

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At last, we’re back with the much-awaited third season of "Another Man's Shoes"! This episode marks our triumphant return after a hiatus and we couldn't be more excited. Join me and my new co-host, Martin Cartwright, as we recount our journeys from military service to civilian life, offering invaluable advice and support to our listeners navigating similar paths. We hint at some riveting upcoming guests from both military and civilian backgrounds, including elite forces members, guaranteeing a season brimming with compelling stories and essential takeaways.

Our conversation kicks off with a deep dive into Martin’s military career, starting from early days at basic training in Pirbright back in 2003. We navigate through the trials of becoming a paratrooper and the missions in Kosovo and Afghanistan. We also break down the differences between the Royal Artillery and Royal Horse Artillery, providing clarity on their distinct roles and equipment. The episode vividly portrays the dedication and resilience demanded in military life, making it a must-listen for anyone curious about the intricacies of service.

In this intense and heartfelt episode, we also recount the grueling experiences of airborne forces training, from pre-parachute selection to the challenges of P Company. We share personal anecdotes, including the physically demanding 10-miler, and emphasize the evolution of training methods to ensure soldier safety. Our stories from Afghanistan offer a glimpse into the camaraderie and evolution of equipment that has shaped modern military operations. We conclude by expressing our deep gratitude to our listeners for their continued support, promising more powerful narratives and insights as we embark on this new season together.

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What drives someone to leap out of planes and conquer the world's highest peaks? In this thrilling episode, we sit down with the extraordinary Holly Budge, an adventurer and conservationist whose life story reads like an epic novel. From being expelled from school at just four years old to representing Great Britain in triathlon events and then finding her passion for professional skydiving in New Zealand, Holly's journey is a testament to the unyielding human spirit. On World Female Ranger Day, she opens up about the resilience, teamwork, and passion that have fueled her incredible adventures and conservation efforts.

Join us as Holly recounts some of her most exhilarating skydiving experiences, including the wildly unique Funny Farm festival in Australia. We share practical tips for aspiring skydivers, from training in Spain to overcoming initial fears, and delve into her transition into filming skydives, showing how passion can take you to new heights. Holly also takes us high into the Himalayas, detailing the thrill and peril of skydiving and mountaineering in some of the world's most challenging terrains, with gripping tales of media attention and the daunting Skydive Everest event.

But the excitement doesn't stop at extreme sports. Holly also discusses her innovative "mirror step" technique for summiting 8,000-meter peaks and the transition from self-funded expeditions to securing sponsorship for Everest. We then pivot to her impactful conservation work, focusing on the alarming rates of elephant poaching in Africa and the efforts of "How Many Elephants" in supporting female rangers on the front lines. Discover the significance of World Female Ranger Day and Holly's passion for journaling through her adventures, offering a raw, inspiring glimpse into a life dedicated to both adventure and making a difference.

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Rebecca Stevens, MBE, the trailblazing mountaineer who became the first British woman to conquer Mount Everest, shares her gripping story of passion, perseverance, and high-altitude adventure. From her humble beginnings in the serene village of Kemsing, Kent, Rebecca reflects on how her love for nature and the profound impact of her father's death fueled her quest for stability and adventure. This episode unpacks her winding journey through various careers and educational pursuits, leading to her unexpected yet thrilling career in mountaineering journalism.

Join us as Rebecca recounts her transformative experiences covering an Everest expedition and the unparalleled moment of standing atop the world's highest peak. She contrasts her serene summit experience with today's overcrowded conditions, shedding light on the life-threatening challenges climbers face in the "death zone." We also explore the evolution of mountaineering, the significance of the Seven Summits, and the delicate balance between modern technology and traditional survival skills.

Rebecca's story doesn't end on the mountaintops; she shares her renewed appreciation for local nature during the pandemic and her dedication to inspiring future adventurers through motivational speaking and coaching. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom, exhilarating tales, and practical insights for anyone captivated by the allure of mountain climbing and the quest to push beyond one's limits.

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Get ready to be spellbound by the legendary Colonel John Blashford-Snell as he shares his extraordinary life of adventure and exploration. From his childhood during World War II, where he served as a runner for the Air Raid Precautionary service and had a memorable encounter with a downed German pilot, to mischievous tales of his pet monkey Jacko, John’s stories are nothing short of captivating. He also recalls forming a childhood gang with choir boys and girls to stand against the ‘Huns’ and reminisces about the German and Italian prisoners of war who worked in their garden, gifting him a handmade model battleship for Christmas.

Ever wondered what it takes to lead groundbreaking expeditions across uncharted territories? John Blashford-Snell takes us on a thrilling journey from the underwater archaeological missions in Cyprus to the treacherous Blue Nile expedition in Ethiopia. Learn how he and his team navigated hostile regions and overcame incredible challenges to establish the Scientific Exploration Society. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as John recounts narrowly escaping crocodiles and bandits, and the remarkable collaborative effort to traverse the Darien Gap, a mission that involved soldiers, scientists, and relentless determination to pave the way for the Pan-American Highway.

But it's not all about adventure; John’s passion for conservation and youth involvement in exploration shines through in our discussion. Discover his firsthand observations of environmental degradation and inspiring initiatives like the Flip Floppy Expedition, which transforms ocean plastic into usable materials. John's dedication to educating young people through programs such as Operation Drake and Rally International is truly commendable. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge, courage, and the spirit of adventure, wrapped up with John’s charming anecdotes and invaluable insights. Don’t miss out on this fantastic journey with one of the world’s most remarkable explorers.

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What if the path to healing lies through overcoming some of the world's most extreme challenges? Join us as Darren Hardy reveals his awe-inspiring journey from the violent streets of Northern Ireland to becoming a record-breaking endurance athlete. Adopted by a military man, Darren found direction and hope, eventually becoming a Royal Engineer. His story is one of resilience and the transformative power of positive influences, as he navigated the camaraderie and challenges of military service while operating heavy machinery and training under intense conditions.

Transitioning to civilian life wasn't easy for Darren, especially after a debilitating injury and the onset of PTSD. He opens up about the profound impact of these experiences on his mental health, sharing personal tragedies and family struggles that underscore the importance of expressing love and resolving conflicts. Darren's determination to find new purpose led him to extreme endurance sports, where he broke records and pushed his physical and mental limits. His adventures, from ultra-endurance races to grueling charity challenges, highlight the therapeutic benefits of setting ambitious goals.

We also hear about Darren's ambitious plans, including an Ironman event with Ben Parkinson, the UK's most injured veteran, to raise awareness for mental health and veteran support. This episode underscores the significance of recognizing mental health warning signs and the incredible impact of extreme challenges on healing and personal growth. Together, Darren's story is a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity with sheer determination and the support of loved ones.

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What drives someone to transition from a troubled youth to a decorated member of the British Army Special Forces? Join us as Jason , our guest, takes us on his gripping journey from the streets of Cheshire and Merseyside to the elite ranks of the military. Jason shares raw and impactful stories from his early days navigating school as a loner and the life-changing decision to join the army, setting the stage for a remarkable career fueled by sheer determination and the invaluable lessons learned in cadet programs.

Ever wondered what it's like to choose a military specialization and the challenges that come with it? This episode is a treasure trove of insights, as Jason recounts the tug-of-war between various trades and the influence of family advice that ultimately guided him towards joining elite units like the Parachute Regiment. Hear about his initial dissatisfaction with his unit, the pivotal encounter with an inspiring Special Forces captain, and the gruelling selection process that tested him both physically and mentally to become a Special Forces Communicator. The vivid recounts of parachute training and earning his wings provide an authentic glimpse into the camaraderie and trials faced by military personnel.

As Jason transitioned from the military to civilian life, his passion for adventure led him to create the Special Forces Experience, an endeavor that captures the essence of military life through events and courses. From organizing a memorial event that grew into a popular venture to adapting his business during the pandemic, Jason's story is one of resilience and innovation. Discover how these events have built a supportive community, providing both veterans and enthusiasts with a taste of military discipline and camaraderie. Don't miss this episode filled with personal stories, military insights, and entrepreneurial spirit that promises to inspire and engage.

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What drives someone to push through unimaginable adversity and come out stronger on the other side? Join us as former Royal Marines Commando Mark Ormrod recounts his gripping story of resilience and transformation. From his adventurous childhood in Plymouth to the life-altering moment in Afghanistan that resulted in a triple amputation, Mark's journey is a testament to the unbreakable human spirit. Discover how his passion for action movies and the influence of family and friends led him to the military, and how he overcame the intense mental and physical challenges of becoming a Royal Marine.

Mark opens up about the unpredictable and perilous experiences at FOB Robinson in Afghanistan, sharing riveting tales of chaotic nighttime firefights and a fateful Christmas Eve patrol. Hear firsthand about the harrowing aftermath of an IED explosion, the life-saving medical interventions, and the crucial support from family and fellow Marines that became his lifeline. His story is not just about surviving but thriving against all odds, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system and unwavering determination.

As Mark navigates life as a triple amputee, he sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of rehabilitation, the energy and effort required to live with prosthetics, and the invaluable mentorship he received. Learn about his successes post-service, including his work with the Royal Marines charity, motivational speaking, and his accolades, such as being named a Member of the British Empire. Mark also shares his future plans and entrepreneurial ambitions, offering a glimpse into his dynamic life and the projects that keep him motivated, all while balancing family and personal endeavors during the COVID pandemic. This episode is an inspiring tribute to perseverance and the transformative power of resilience.

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What drives someone to turn their life around and achieve extraordinary feats? Join us as we sit down with Dean Stott, a former British Army member and Special Boat Service operative, who takes us from a challenging childhood on an RAF base and the tough streets of Moss Side, Manchester, to a stellar military career. Dean shares how his father’s military background influenced his decision to join the Royal Engineers, despite his childhood dream of being a fireman. From facing physical and mental hurdles during training at Basingbourne to witnessing his father's evolving support, Dean's story is a testament to resilience and determination.

Prepare to be captivated as Dean reflects on his illustrious military career, including his time as a PTI in Germany, transitioning to an instructor role, and completing the all-arms commando course. He gives us an inside look at the camaraderie among troops, the deployment to Kosovo, and later, his specialized training at the Defence Diving School, where he became a senior diving instructor. Dean’s tales of selection for the Special Boat Service, along with the unique challenges of military diving and special forces selection, offer valuable insights into the grit and adaptability required to succeed in such high-pressure environments.

As Dean transitions from military to civilian life, he discusses the hurdles military personnel face when adapting to the corporate world. From working in private security during the Arab Spring in Libya to embarking on a world-record cycling adventure, Dean's story is filled with lessons on overcoming adversity and pushing boundaries. His newly released book, "Relentless," and upcoming challenge of kayaking the Nile from source to sea further exemplify his relentless spirit. Tune in to hear Dean's remarkable journey, filled with moments of courage, resilience, and a relentless drive to make a significant impact.

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Ever wondered how a paratrooper transforms into a top leader in the London Fire Brigade? Join us as we embark on an extraordinary journey with David O'Neill MBE, exploring his incredible evolution from a military enthusiast to the Deputy Assistant Commissioner. We dive deep into David's formative years, his passion for the army cadets, and the pivotal moments that propelled him into the Parachute Regiment, even amid familial resistance. This episode sets the stage for understanding the resilience and dedication required in a career that bridges military discipline with emergency service valor.

David takes us behind the scenes of the intense emotional and psychological challenges faced by first responders. You'll hear gripping accounts from his early days on the job, highlighting the raw realities of dealing with tragic accident scenes and the methods emergency personnel use to cope. Discover how dark humor and informal debriefings play a crucial role in managing stress, and learn about the cultural shift within emergency services towards addressing emotions to prevent long-term psychological trauma. David's stories of near misses and miraculous survivals offer a riveting insight into the daily dangers and emotional complexities faced by those in the line of duty.

The conversation pivots to critical issues of mental health support and effective disaster response coordination, particularly in the aftermath of significant incidents like the Grenfell Tower fire. David discusses the unique challenges of providing mental health support for both responders and the public, and how systems like TRIM help prepare teams for mass fatality events. Hear firsthand accounts of the intense pressures and crucial leadership decisions during catastrophic events, and the ongoing efforts to improve the mental health and well-being of firefighters. This episode is a compelling exploration of the evolving culture within the fire service and the vital lessons learned from the frontline of disaster response.

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