Join us on an extraordinary journey with three Australian SAS veterans: Dr. Dan Pronk, Ben Pronk, and Tim Curtis. In this episode of "Always a little further," these remarkable individuals, who are also the authors of the book "The Resilience Shield," share their unique perspectives on overcoming adversity, shaped by their special operations experience.
 
 "The Resilience Shield" is not just another book. It is a powerful manual meticulously crafted from their lived experiences and cutting-edge academic research. Through their stories, you will gain insights into mastering your mindset, navigating the world's complexities, and finding happiness even amidst the pressures of modern life.
 
 Prepare to be captivated by the stories of these authors:
 
 - Discover how their service has shaped their passion for empowering others with resilience.
 - Learn the techniques they have honed to stay calm under fire and conquer seemingly insurmountable challenges.
 - Explore their perspectives on navigating a world as beautiful as it is unfair and cultivating happiness in the midst of it all.
 
 This episode is more than just a podcast; it is a call to action. Whether you are facing career transitions, navigating post-service life, or simply seeking to build your resilience, you will find valuable tools and inspiration within these conversations.
 
 To learn more about the book "The Resilience Shield" and its practical applications, visit https://resilienceshield.com/.

Remember, you are never alone. Always a little further.

Explore the Life After Service Program offered by Torode and discover how they empower veterans and first responders by visiting: https://torodesolutions.com.au/programs/.

If you feel triggered by this episode or are in crisis, please reach out to a support service. You can find the contact details for organizations that offer support on the podcast page of our website www.torodesolutions.com.au/podcast.

If you or someone you know is considering a change in direction, Sarah and Rob from Torode Solutions offer invaluable guidance for veterans, first responders, and anyone seeking a smoother transition into their next chapter.

Stay connected with us on social media:

- Email Contact: [email protected]
- Website: www.torodesolutions.com.au
- LinkedIn: Torode Solutions (www.linkedin.com/company/torode-solutions)
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- Instagram: torodesolutions (www.instagram.com/torodesolutions)

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In this podcast episode called “The best exercise for your heart is to help somebody else stand up” I had the pleasure of chatting with Roger Eichler.

Like so many others who joined the police force in the 80’s, Roger didn’t know what to do when he left school but felt a sese of wanting to serve the community and signed up to become a police officer.

Roger served 17 years in the NSW police force  – with a large majority of those years spent serving in in rural NSW.  Which he learnt was a different experience than being a police officer in metropolitan locations,  as officers in rural locations undertake every aspect of policing. From attending the callout, to crime scene investigation and the never ending task of paperwork.

He speaks openly about challenging scenes he attended and not having processes in place to debrief afterwards and that the trauma hits you the next day, or later after you’ve had time to slow down and the adrenaline has subsided. 

Roger has spent years repairing himself, repairing his marriage and does not for one moment take for granted how he could have lost everything because he was not completely open with those around him about his struggles. 

He now volunteers with many not-for-profit organisations which have helped him along his journey to recovery – he is passionate about giving back.

You’ll hear how psychologists let him down and dismissed his feelings – he often felt let down and misdiagnosed. Luckily he stayed determined to help himself and continued with treatments and persuade many alternative therapies.

Roger also wrote a book about his experiences on the front line which openly speak about his battles with mental health. Writing the book "The Price of Protecting Others" helped him heal and it no doubt has helped many others feel more supported and not so “alone” with their own battles.

• https://questforlife.org.au/
• https://www.trojanstrek.com/
• https://rogereichlerauthor.com/

If you feel triggered by this episode or are in crisis please reach out to a support service. The contact details for organisations who offer support can be found on the podcast page of our website www.torodesolutions.com.au/podcast

Could you, or someone you know benefit from real support and guidance transitioning careers? Or, are you considering transitioning from the service? Whether that is the Australian Defence Force, emergency services, or the Australian Public Service. If so, reach out to Sarah or Rob from Torode Solutions. Follow us on social media and get in touch:

•  Email Contact: [email protected]
•  Website: www.torodesolutions.com.au
•  LinkedIn: Torode Solutions (www.linkedin.com/company/torode-solutions)
•  Facebook: Torode Solutions (https://www.facebook.com/torodesolutions)
• Instagram: torodesolutions (www.instagram.com/torodesolutions)

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Glenn Lang is a Correctional Officer in the Department of Correctional Services within Northern Territory Department of Attorney General and Justice and previously worked as an Ambulance Officer and rural First Responder. 

I first met Glenn and his beautiful support dog Penny when he participated in my Life After Service Program. At the time I had no idea about how extensive his contribution to service was, or how deeply severe trauma has impacted him.

This podcast episode “Behind the wire” is a chat about Glenn’s experiences and how Penny supports him everyday – her exceptional ability to sense when Glenn cannot navigate himself to emotional safety she is his lifeline. Literally leading him to a safe place – helping him calm by being playful, or prompting him to leave a situation. 

Glenn shares his experience with mental armour and educates us through some of his most important lessons, especially during his Corrections Career.

Don’t be afraid to share your feelings with those that love you, no matter how disturbing the issues. This was just one of the powerful lessons Glenn shared with us during our chat. I encourage you to have a listen.

If you would like to support Penny with her important work there is a GoFundMe Page: https://gofund.me/cf246f1b

To learn more about Whiskey’s Wish Inc Rehabilitation through task trained service dogs for Veterans, First Responders & Correctional Officers visit: https://whiskeyswish.org.au/

Liked this episode? Hit subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode.

Could you, or someone you know benefit from real support and guidance transitioning careers? Or, are you considering transitioning from the service? Whether that is the Australian Defence Force, emergency services, or the Australian Public Service. If so, reach out to Sarah or Rob from Torode Solutions. Follow us on social media and get in touch:

•  Email Contact: [email protected]
•  Website: www.torodesolutions.com.au
•  LinkedIn: Torode Solutions (www.linkedin.com/company/torode-solutions)
•  Facebook: Torode Solutions (https://www.facebook.com/torodesolutions)
• Instagram: torodesolutions (www.instagram.com/torodesolutions)

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In this episode “You’re more than your rank, you’re more than your uniform” Mark Elm,  currently a Senior Emergency Manager with the New South Wales Government opens up about the realities of life in the job, his commitment and dedication to the service and tough experiences that impacted on him greatly. 

He is one of those people who have dedicated so much of their lives to being of service to the community and to those around him.

His service to our communities is extensive. In this episode, I introduce Mark by sharing his professional career such as his roles within the Australian Federal Police, his contribution to peacekeeping, Police Liaison roles, his proud and longstanding history in veteran and first responder advocacy and also his ongoing commitment to sitting on not for profit committees and contribution to support services. 

Mark has been clinically diagnosed with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and Major Depressive Disorder as a direct result of his service, and after taking stock, and challenging labels, he set about rebuilding his life where he now commits his life to assist others on their journey under a personal lens of lived experience, matched with a personal level of authenticity and accountability.  

This man has and will continue to make a huge impact on the world and I can’t wait to see what he does next. 

In this episode “Finding your purpose after service” with John Hardgrave, John talks about the importance of upskilling yourself, considering  your next steps well before transitioning from service and how to have the right support around you.

John also speaks about the trauma people experience whilst serving in the Australian Defence Force, not excluding that of our first responders. He shares what support mechanisms he used during his career and how differently people process situations. His tools and messages around dealing with trauma are insightful.

During the podcast John reflects on the advice his grandad left ingrained within him - “The last of the great freedoms is to choose your attitude in any given situation”. Johns's grandfather served in WWII. Throughout the podcast you will hear John’s positive attitude and how he really lives by his grandfather’s message - that nobody can choose your attitude. Look at everything in a positive light.

Hit subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode of  "Getting To The Heart Of It".  Could you, or someone you know benefit from real support and guidance transitioning careers? Or, are you considering transitioning from the service? Whether that is the Australian Defence Force, emergency services, or the Australian Public Service. If so, reach out to Sarah or Rob from Torode Solutions. Follow us on social media and get in touch:

•  Email Contact: [email protected]
•  Website: www.torodesolutions.com.au
•  LinkedIn: Torode Solutions (www.linkedin.com/company/torode-solutions)
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Getting To The Heart Of It podcast episode #5 is with Andrew Short the Queensland Assistant Commissioner, Fire and Emergency Services. You'll want to hear this episode if you've ever felt fear, aspired to lead or, could benefit from hearing motivational strategies to support your life journey.

Connect with Andrew and listen to his podcast "Influence Me":
https://ajshort.podbean.com/

Hit subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode of  "Getting To The Heart Of It".  Could you, or someone you know benefit from real support and guidance transitioning careers? Or, are you considering transitioning from the service? Whether that is the Australian Defence Force, emergency services, or the Australian Public Service. If so, reach out to Sarah or Rob from Torode Solutions. Follow us on social media and get in touch:

•  Email Contact: [email protected]
•  Website: www.torodesolutions.com.au
•  LinkedIn: Torode Solutions (www.linkedin.com/company/torode-solutions)
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How does someone become an inspirational leader who is passionate about people? In this podcast episode, “Leap Of Faith” Inspector Kelly Connolly shares her personal story on why she chose a career in the Australian army from a young age and why she left in the prime of her career transitioning to the Australian Federal Police. 

Working as an Australian Federal Police inspector within the specialist protective command, Kelly talks about her experience as a female leader in a male dominated environment and how she thrives. Kelly’s passion shines through for wanting to assist troops to succeed. By opening up about losing a team member on an international peace keeping mission and a tragic accident that happened during pre-deployment training, she was able to lighten her load.

By Kelly sharing her story, it is a reminder that it takes a significant amount of courage to be vulnerable and speak our truth.

Hit subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode.  Could you, or someone you know benefit from real support and guidance transitioning careers? Or, are you considering transitioning from the service? Whether that is the Australian Defence Force, emergency services, or the Australian Public Service. If so, reach out to Sarah or Rob from Torode Solutions. Follow us on social media and get in touch:

•  Email Contact: [email protected]
•  Website: www.torodesolutions.com.au
•  LinkedIn: Torode Solutions (www.linkedin.com/company/torode-solutions)
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• Instagram: torodesolutions (www.instagram.com/torodesolutions)

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This episode “You're the driver of your own destiny” with Les Gernyi is dedicated the amazing paramedics who are like our angels who work so tirelessly to be there for us when we are at our most vulnerable in life.

Christmas is a time of year that we spend time with our loved ones and take the time to reflect on the year that has been and contemplate the year ahead. This episode was recorded in December 2021. 

Les Gernyi is an Australian Defence Force veteran who is currently serving as a NSW Special Operations Paramedic. Les is like many of our first responders, they see their line of work as business as usual and they see themselves as no one special.

Les offers his advice to take that leap of faith, to believe in yourself and that if you really want to do something then “give it a crack” he reminds us that life can be short for some and that we never know what is around the corner, so we should hug those close to us. What a perfect reminder for this time of year.

Les praises his management and leadership within the NSW Ambulance for creating a safe space for them to be vulnerable and talk through their traumatic experiences.

A special call out to the leaders and the amazing paramedics within the NSW ambulance Service, you’re doing your country proud.

Hit subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode.  Could you, or someone you know benefit from real support and guidance transitioning careers? Or, are you considering transitioning from the service? Whether that is the Australian Defence Force, emergency services, or the Australian Public Service. If so, reach out to Sarah or Rob from Torode Solutions. Follow us on social media and get in touch:

•  Email Contact: [email protected]
•  Website: www.torodesolutions.com.au
•  LinkedIn: Torode Solutions (www.linkedin.com/company/torode-solutions)
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My guest in this episode is John Schonberger, also known to his mates as Schonners. John is an Australian Defence Force Veteran, currently working as a Navy Reservist. John was awarded an Australian Active Service Medal for his contribution in the Iraq war.

In this episode you’ll hear about John’s career in the Australian Navy, his experience whilst on international deployments, including being a part of the first seahawk mission just before the Golf war broke out and how he juggled his family responsibility prior to leaving the country to minimise the impact on his family.

John talks about the importance of veterans staying connected, how he does this as well as how crucial it is for people to brave and ask for help when they need it.

Some of Johns advice from the episode was “always check in on your mates to make sure they’re okay". One of John’s quotes that resonated with me on a personal level was “no one gets left behind”.

Hit subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode.  Could you, or someone you know benefit from real support and guidance transitioning careers? Or, are you considering transitioning from the service? Whether that is the Australian Defence Force, emergency services, or the Australian Public Service. If so, reach out to Sarah or Rob from Torode Solutions. Follow us on social media and get in touch:

•  Email Contact: [email protected]
•  Website: www.torodesolutions.com.au
•  LinkedIn: Torode Solutions (www.linkedin.com/company/torode-solutions)
•  Facebook: torodesolutions (https://www.facebook.com/torodesolutions)
• Instagram: torodesolutions (www.instagram.com/torodesolutions)

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