In this compelling episode of Heroes Among Us, host Simon Bywater sits down with Tom Curry, a former police officer whose years of service reveal an inspiring story of resilience, bravery, and unrelenting dedication to justice.

Tom Curry embodies the spirit of an old-school cop, tough, dedicated, and unflinchingly loyal to the badge. With over two decades of service, he’s the kind of officer who believes in upholding the law with integrity, relying on instinct, experience, and an unwavering commitment to doing what’s right. Tom is the kind of policeman who comes from an era where the job was about respect for the community, a strong work ethic, and being willing to put yourself on the line without hesitation. His no-nonsense approach, combined with a deep sense of duty and fairness, makes him a throwback to the days when police work was more than a job, it was a calling.

Tom, the acclaimed author of DYSFUNCTIONAL POLICE FAMILY ADD INSULT TO INJURY, discusses the personal experiences that led him to write his powerful book, which has been receiving rave reviews for its raw and honest depiction of life in law enforcement. Tom opens up about the emotional toll of the job, the sacrifices made, and the difficult journey that officers like him face—both in uniform and out of it.

A passionate advocate for injured police officers, Tom also sheds light on his national campaign to ensure these officers receive the recognition they deserve, something that was tragically denied to him during his own career.

Tune in as Tom shares his personal battles, his fight for justice, and his determination to challenge the politics that often obscure the true cost of service. This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength and courage it takes to stand on the front lines.

In this episode of Heroes Among Us, we sit down with Paul Fullwood a seasoned leader with a remarkable 33-year career spanning both the HM Armed Forces and UK Police Service.

Paul retired as Assistant Chief Constable of Specialist Policing Services, where he led teams in areas such as major crime, counter terrorism, and armed policing. Notably, he spearheaded the investigation into the 1994 murder of Rikki Neave, finally bringing justice after 28 years.

Paul’s journey took him through various pivotal roles, including serving with Sussex Police, the National Crime Squad, and leading numerous high-profile cases involving kidnappings, murders, and organised crime. His leadership extended to being the Gold Commander during the tri-force response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, as the Director of Inspection & Enforcement at the Security Industry Authority, Paul remains committed to public safety, transforming operational standards in the UK’s private security sector.

In this episode, Paul shares insights into his distinguished career, the challenges of leading complex investigations, and his reflections on leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Whether you're interested in policing, leadership, or real-life crime-solving, this conversation is a must-listen!

Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking discussion! 🎧

We’re honored to bring you the story of a truly remarkable individual, Ricky Miller, a man whose life is a testament to resilience, courage, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Ricky’s journey began in Rainham, Essex, where he grew up in a loving yet challenging environment. The son of Caribbean immigrants, Ricky’s early years were marked by the warmth of his mother, a dedicated nurse, and the tough hand of his father, a carpenter who demanded strict discipline. Despite these challenges, Ricky excelled in school, especially in sports, where he competed at county level in a variety of athletic events.

At just 13, Ricky found solace and strength in Karate, quickly rising through the ranks and even placing 3rd in the British Full Contact Karate Championship at 16. But it was a chance encounter with a Royal Marine that changed the trajectory of his life. Captivated by the tales of military life and the camaraderie of the Royal Marines, Ricky enlisted at 17, beginning a career that would take him to the farthest corners of the world and into the heart of some of the most intense conflicts of the late 20th century.

Ricky’s military career is nothing short of extraordinary. After completing the grueling 30-week recruit training, he was deployed with 40 Commando Royal Marines, where he saw action in the Falklands War. His experiences in the brutal conflict, including his service during harrowing operations in Goose Green and Mount Tumbledown, forged a deep sense of purpose and resilience in him.

Ricky’s service didn’t end there. Over the years, he deployed on three operational tours in Northern Ireland, where he navigated the dangerous and complex environment of counter-terrorism operations. In 2000, he served in war-torn Kosovo, where he played a key role in civil-military operations, helping to rebuild communities devastated by conflict. Whether in the jungles of Brunei, the deserts of Oman, or the frozen landscapes of Norway, Ricky proved time and again his capability to adapt, lead, and succeed under the most challenging conditions.

But Ricky’s impact wasn’t limited to the battlefield. As a Royal Marines Physical Training Instructor (PTI), he became a cornerstone of the Royal Marines' physical development program. He was known for his unwavering commitment to the fitness and combat readiness of his fellow Marines, training everyone from elite UKSF operators to US Navy SEALs. Ricky’s expertise as a boxing coach also led him to guide and mentor the next generation of Royal Marines boxers, helping them achieve championship success.

After an illustrious career that saw him rise to the rank of Warrant Officer 1st Class—the highest enlisted rank in the British Armed Forces—Ricky transitioned to a new chapter, continuing to serve as a military contractor in the UAE. There, he was instrumental in redesigning the physical training programs for the UAE Armed Forces, earning him the respect and admiration of an entire military community.

Today, Ricky applies his vast experience and leadership skills as a Lead Trainer for a global luxury chauffeur company, where he ensures that the highest standards of service and professionalism are maintained. He continues to inspire others with his dedication to excellence, whether it’s in the field of physical fitness, martial arts, or his new role in the corporate world.

Join us as we dive deep into Ricky’s incredible journey, exploring the triumphs, challenges, and life lessons that have shaped him into the hero he is today. This episode is a tribute to Ricky’s unwavering spirit and his lifelong commitment to serving others. Whether you’re a military enthusiast, a sports lover, or someone who appreciates a powerful story of perseverance and leadership, this conversation is sure to captivate and inspire you.

We’re thrilled to welcome Ken Delve to the podcast, a true aviation history legend! With 20 years of service in the RAF as a Navigator on the Canberra and Tornado, Ken’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

He is an aviation historian and a trustee of the RAF Heraldry Trust and also a guide at the RAF Marham Aviation Heritage Centre. After leaving the military, Ken was the editor of Flypast magazine for 9 years. He is the founder of the Aviation Research Centre, which aims to document and share aviation history, especially that of the RAF and its WW2 allies.

From the skies of his RAF career to the pages of over 50 books, Ken has dedicated his life to capturing and preserving the stories of those who served. He’s not just a veteran; he’s a storyteller, historian, and the driving force behind initiatives like the Aviation History Research Centre and Veterans Central.

Tune in as Ken shares fascinating tales from veterans and his own time in RAF, the importance of preserving military history, and how he’s giving back to the veteran community. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Join us for an extraordinary conversation with Angela Glynn, a true force of passion, purpose, and resilience. Angela's journey begins in Hastings, where she started fundraising as a young girl, and takes us through her brief yet impactful time in the police, which gave her invaluable insights into service and dedication to others.

In this episode, Angela talks about how her time in the police deepened her desire to help people, ultimately leading her to spearhead some of the UK’s most successful charitable campaigns. From raising millions for Marie Curie Cancer Care to leading transformative projects that have had a lasting impact, Angela’s story is one of perseverance and commitment to making a difference.

Angela also shares her experiences as Mayor of Fakenham, where her leadership continues to uplift and inspire her community.

In this episode of "Heroes Among Us," we sit down with Chris Strickland, the recently retired Chief Fire Officer of Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS). Chris joined the fire service at just 18 and went on to serve for over three decades, leading with vision and passion. After 24 years at Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, Chris joined CFRS in 2007 as Assistant Chief Fire Officer and rose to Chief Fire Officer in 2016.

Throughout his remarkable career, Chris has been dedicated to improving the culture within the fire service, leaving behind a legacy of excellence as CFRS earned recognition for its positive culture over multiple inspections. Beyond his work at CFRS, Chris has made significant contributions to national initiatives, chairing the National Fire Chief’s Council Improvement Committee and leading local emergency preparedness as chair of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Local Resilience Forum.

Join us as Chris reflects on his career, the challenges and triumphs of leadership, and his enduring impact on fire service culture and national resilience efforts. Don't miss this episode filled with lessons on dedication, teamwork, and growth! 🎧

From a handful of GCSEs to a 35-year career dedicated to transforming lives—meet Wendi Ogle-Welbourn, our next incredible guest! 🌟

Wendi's journey began with a passion for the theatre, but life led her to a different stage, a residential children’s home in Huntingdon. That six-month contract turned into a lifelong commitment to social work, climbing the ranks from Residential Care Worker to Executive Director of People Services, shaping the lives of children, families, and communities across the East of England.

In this episode, Wendi opens up about the challenges she faced, from turning around failing Children’s Services to navigating the financial strains of the sector, and even leading two large local Authorities through the COVID-19 crisis. She’ll also share her deep passion for care leavers and the unique struggles they face as they step into adulthood without the safety net many of us take for granted.

In this captivating episode of "Heroes Among Us," we sit down with Pete Lowe, a visionary in youth development and a key figure behind the transformation of Manchester City's Youth Academy into one of the most successful talent factories in global football. With a career that spans from PE teacher to Head of Education and Performance Management at Manchester City, Pete shares the insights and experiences that have shaped his approach to nurturing young athletes and building champions.

Pete takes us through his journey, starting with his early days as a PE teacher, where his passion for developing young talent first took root. He discusses the transition from teaching to working in football, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become a pivotal figure at Manchester City. His innovative approach to youth development, focusing not just on athletic performance but also on education and character building, helped create a holistic environment where young players could thrive both on and off the pitch.

During his tenure, Pete was instrumental in implementing a philosophy that emphasised the importance of developing well-rounded individuals. He delves into the challenges of balancing the pressures of competitive sports with the need for personal growth and education. Pete highlights the crucial role of mentors and coaches in guiding young athletes through the highs and lows of their careers, ensuring they remain grounded and focused on their long-term goals.

One of the key takeaways from this episode is Pete's belief in the power of leadership and the importance of creating a culture of excellence. He shares stories of working with some of the most talented young players in the world, many of whom have gone on to become stars in the Premier League and on the international stage. Pete reflects on the strategies and practices that were implemented at Manchester City to cultivate a winning mentality and foster resilience in young players, preparing them for the demands of professional football.

Pete also speaks candidly about one of the most difficult aspects of youth football: supporting young players who are released from professional clubs. He discusses the emotional and psychological challenges these young athletes face and the importance of providing ongoing support and guidance as they transition to the next phase of their lives. Pete's insights into how clubs can better manage this difficult process are both poignant and practical, offering hope and direction for those involved in youth development.

In addition to his experiences in football, Pete discusses the broader implications of youth development, offering valuable advice for anyone involved in nurturing young talent, whether in sports or other fields. He emphasises the need for patience, empathy, and a long-term vision, stressing that success is not just about winning games but about building character and life skills that will serve young people well beyond their athletic careers.

Throughout the episode, Pete's passion for his work shines through, as does his deep commitment to the young athletes he has mentored over the years. His insights are not only relevant for those in the world of football but also for educators, coaches, and leaders in any field who are dedicated to developing the next generation of champions.

"Pete Lowe: Transforming Youth into Champions – The Secrets Behind Footballing Success" is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports, education, and leadership. Whether you're a football enthusiast, a coach, or someone who simply believes in the power of mentorship, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Tune in to hear Pete Lowe's remarkable story and learn the secrets behind his success in shaping the future stars of football, and how he continues to support those who face the challenge of moving on after their football dreams take a different path.

Russell's journey began in India, where he and his family faced the unique challenge of navigating life as Anglo-Indians. Moving to the UK as a young boy, Russell found himself caught between two cultures. Despite this, he thrived, eventually becoming the head pupil at his large London secondary school, where he embraced his role in supporting the local community.

At just 18 years old, Russell joined the police force, a decision that would set the course for an extraordinary career. Although he admits that his youth sometimes made the job challenging, it was detective work that truly captured his heart and utilized his skills. As a detective sergeant, he joined the public protection department, a move that profoundly enriched his career.

Russell served in every rank as a detective, culminating in his role as Detective Chief Superintendent. Over his distinguished career, he led over 100 major crime investigations, earning 14 commendations from judges and chief officers, including the prestigious Queen's Police Medal awarded by Queen Elizabeth II.

He is perhaps best known for his pivotal role in the Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman investigation and for serving as the national lead for investigating child deaths. His doctoral thesis focuses on the investigation of child deaths, and he has contributed to the Baroness Kennedy working group on this critical issue.

In his second career, Russell continues to make a difference by conducting safeguarding reviews in cases of child death, abuse, and neglect, including the high-profile cases of Arthur Labinjo-Hughes and Star Hobson. He also performs domestic homicide reviews and remains a dedicated advocate for child protection.

In addition to his work in law enforcement and child protection, Russell is a published author of crime fiction. His books follow the investigations of fictional detective DCI Alexander (Sandy) McFarlane, adding yet another dimension to his remarkable career.

We’re honoured to have Daryl Brown MBE, a true leader in emergency care and public service, join us on the podcast. As the Chief Executive of Magpas Air Ambulance and a distinguished figure in charitable, NHS, and local government roles across Cambridgeshire, Daryl’s impact on his community is profound.

Born and raised in Cambridge, Daryl’s journey has taken him from his roots at Anglia Ruskin University—where he continues to give back as a founding member of the Alumni Board—to the heights of serving as Mayor of Huntingdon and leading crucial healthcare initiatives. His dedication to improving pre-hospital emergency medicine and trauma care has saved countless lives, and his work with Air Ambulances UK and the British Helicopter Association exemplifies his commitment to making a difference.

In this episode, Daryl shares his inspiring story, from receiving an MBE in 2021 to his ongoing work as Deputy Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire. He also offers insights into balancing a high-impact career with family life, and how he finds peace on the North Norfolk Coast or tending to his allotment.

Tune in to hear Daryl’s incredible story of dedication, leadership, and service. Whether you're passionate about emergency services, leadership, or community impact, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring moments.