By Andy Fermo
The podcast currently has 122 episodes available.
In this second part of the Invisible Injuries podcast with Robert Kilsby, Robert and Andy Fermo continue the conversation by diving into Robert’s post-military challenges, including his struggles with unraveling mental health and finding purpose after service. Robert recounts his transition from the military and how his drive for excellence kept him going, but he eventually hit a breaking point, leading him to seek help for his mental health. He describes the difficulty of finding the right support and the frustration of navigating the mental health system. However, through persistence, Robert was able to connect with a specialist who helped him better understand his PTSD and how to cope.
The episode then shifts focus to Robert’s passion for motorsport and how he found healing through racing. His experiences in motorsport, particularly tarmac rallying, became a critical part of his recovery, giving him a renewed sense of purpose. Robert shares how his work with Mountain Road Racing, a team that supports veterans through motorsport, is now helping others like him. He discusses the challenges of setting up the team and the importance of providing veterans with meaningful experiences. The episode concludes with Robert's reflections on resilience, coping mechanisms, and his mission to give veterans a chance to rediscover their passion and engage with life once again.
Key Takeaway
Contact - Robert Kilsby
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mountainroadracing
Website: https://www.mountainroadracing.au/about-us
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app
"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"
Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course
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In this first part of the Invisible Injuries podcast featuring Robert Kilsby, Andy Fermo dives into the incredible journey of a 21-year Special Forces veteran. Robert opens up about his rural upbringing, his early influences from Scouts, and the Army Reserve, which eventually inspired his path into the military. He reflects on his training, beginning at 17, and his eventual selection for the SAS. Throughout the episode, Robert shares gripping stories of his time in Vietnam, including experiences with scouting, patrolling, and collaborations with U.S. Navy SEALs. His recollections shed light on the camaraderie, challenges, and personal growth he experienced during his service, especially as one of the youngest members in his unit. Despite the traumatic environments, Robert’s attitude of persistence and pursuit of excellence helped him thrive. He emphasises the mindset required to not only survive but excel in high-pressure military operations. As the episode progresses, Andy and Robert explore deeper topics around trauma, the nature of PTSD, and the ways in which soldiers cope both during and after service. The episode sets the stage for a powerful exploration of Robert’s transition from military life to new challenges and self-care in the second part.
Key Takeaways
Contact - Robert Kilsby
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mountainroadracing
Website: https://www.mountainroadracing.au/about-us
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app
"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"
Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC
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In episode 3 and finale of the PTS Growth theme, host Andy Fermo continues his conversation with military veteran John Giampino, delving into the profound impact of his service on his mental health and the journey towards healing. John discusses the moral injury he experienced from the lack of support from his hierarchy, which significantly affected his confidence in leadership and his overall mental health. He recounts the traumatic training incident that led to his PTSD and the subsequent struggles with his physical health, including multiple injuries and surgeries.
John candidly shares his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts following his medical discharge from the army. He describes hitting rock bottom and the turning point when he decided to rebuild his life by starting a carpentry business, which brought him happiness and a renewed sense of purpose. He emphasizes the critical role of the organization "I've Got Your Six" in helping him transition to civilian life by identifying and leveraging the skills he developed in the military.
The conversation highlights the importance of support systems, both from organizations and within the veteran community. John speaks passionately about his work as an ambassador for "I've Got Your Six," advocating for the importance of transitioning programs and the need for veterans to seek help before leaving the service. The episode underscores the theme of “post-traumatic growth,” showcasing John's resilience and commitment to helping other veterans find their path to healing and purpose.
Key Takeaways
Service
1. John’s experience of moral injury due to lack of support from his hierarchy.
2. The traumatic training incident that led to his PTSD.
3. The physical toll of his service, resulting in multiple injuries and surgeries.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
4. John’s battle with depression and suicidal thoughts following his medical discharge.
5. The importance of finding purpose in civilian life to improve mental health and wellbeing.
6. The role of "I've Got Your Six" in helping veterans transition to civilian life.
Self-Care and Positive Mindset
7. Starting a carpentry business brought John happiness and a renewed sense of purpose.
8. The significance of support systems, both organizational and community-based, in the healing process.
9. Advocating for transitioning programs to support veterans before they leave the service.
10. The theme of "post-traumatic growth" as a source of resilience and hope for veterans.
Contact - John Giampino
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/igySIXfoundation
Website: https://igy6.com.au/
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app
"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"
Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC
Support the show
In this episode of the Invisible Injuries Podcast, host Andy Fermo engages in a candid conversation with John Giampino, a military veteran, sharing his profound experiences and the impact of his service on his mental health. The episode unfolds in a conversational tone, structured around Giampino’s deployments, the challenges he faced, and his journey towards healing.
John begins by reflecting on his time in Bougainville, describing it as a relatively positive experience despite the inherent dangers. He shares anecdotes about daily life and the camaraderie among his peers. The narrative shifts to his deployment in East Timor, highlighting the stark differences and the volatile environment. John candidly discusses the emotional toll of witnessing the locals' suffering and the profound impact it had on him, marking the beginning of significant changes in his perspective.
The conversation delves deeper into John's experiences in Afghanistan and the Solomon Islands, emphasizing the constant state of heightened alertness and the psychological strain it imposed. A particularly harrowing training incident is recounted, where John and a fellow soldier narrowly escaped drowning. This incident, coupled with the lack of support from his superiors, marked the onset of his PTSD, leading to a moral injury that profoundly affected his mental health.
Throughout the episode, John shares his journey towards managing PTSD, emphasizing the importance of self-care, seeking help, and the support of his peers. The episode resonates with the theme of “post-traumatic growth,” highlighting John's resilience and his ongoing efforts to find purpose and positivity despite the challenges.
Service
1. John’s positive experience in Bougainville despite the inherent dangers.
2. The stark contrast and volatile environment in East Timor.
3. The constant state of heightened alertness during his deployment in Afghanistan.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
4. The profound emotional impact of witnessing the locals' suffering in East Timor.
5. The psychological strain of a harrowing training incident, marking the onset of PTSD.
6. The lack of support from superiors, leading to a moral injury.
Self-Care and Positive Mindset
7. The importance of seeking help and support from peers in managing PTSD.
8. The role of self-care practices in improving mental health and wellbeing.
9. The significance of finding purpose and positivity despite challenges.
10. The theme of "post-traumatic growth" as a source of resilience and hope.
Contact - John Giampino
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/igySIXfoundation
Website: https://igy6.com.au/
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app
"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"
Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC
Support the show
In this episode of the Invisible Injuries podcast, host Andy Fermo sits down with John Giampino, a 31-year veteran of the Royal Australian Corps of Transport and an ambassador for "I've Got Your Six." John's extensive military career began with his enlistment in the Melbourne University Regiment and transitioned into full-time service in 1985. He shares his experiences from initial training at Kapooka to various deployments, including peacekeeping missions in Bougainville and East Timor.
John's vivid recollections paint a detailed picture of life in the military, from the rigors of training designed to build resilience and condition soldiers for the demands of service, to the challenges and camaraderie of operational deployments. He discusses the unique aspects of water transport, including the critical role of teamwork and the necessity of being self-reliant while at sea.
A significant portion of the conversation focuses on John's deployment to Bougainville during a time of unrest. He describes the initial shock of landing in a conflict zone and the importance of building trust with the local population, highlighting an incident where his quick action helped rescue a helicopter crew from a crash. John's accounts underscore the unpredictable nature of military operations and the resilience required to navigate them.
The episode also delves into the importance of self-care and mental health for veterans. John discusses the necessity of support networks and the role of organizations like "I've Got Your Six" in providing essential services to veterans. His insights into the mental and emotional challenges faced by service members are invaluable for both veterans and their support networks.
Throughout the episode, Andy and John maintain a conversational tone, balancing the gravity of the topics discussed with moments of light-hearted banter, reflecting the close-knit community within the military. This episode is a compelling listen for veterans, first responders, and anyone interested in the lived experiences of those who serve.
Contact - John Giampino
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/igySIXfoundation
Website: https://igy6.com.au/
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app
"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"
Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC
Support the show
In part 3, the final segment of our chat, Damien (ex NT/VIC Pol Senior Constable ) opens up about the darkest periods of his PTSD, including being housebound and overwhelmed by guilt and shame. He describes his experience with suicidal thoughts and attempts, and the profound impact of feeling like a burden to his family.
A key turning point for Damien was a moment of empathy he felt while watching a press conference, which sparked a flicker of hope. This realisation led him to actively seek out recovery strategies, including mindfulness, breathwork, and self-education.
Andy and Damien discuss the importance of building a personalised toolkit of coping mechanisms, the ongoing journey of managing mental health, and the potential for post-traumatic growth.
Key Takeaways
Contact - Damien Mullen
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app
"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"
Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC
Support the show
In part 2 of the interview with ex-Senior Constable Damien Mullen, host Andy Fermo continues to explore the intense and often dangerous situations Damien faced as a police officer in remote areas. Damien shares harrowing stories of life-threatening encounters, including a riot and a deeply traumatic incident on a remote island. He discusses the emotional toll these experiences took on him, leading to a severe PTSD diagnosis. The episode delves into the struggles of accepting the diagnosis, dealing with the stigma, and the journey toward understanding and managing PTSD. Damien's story is a powerful testament to the resilience of first responders and the critical need for mental health support.
I the latter half of the episode Damien's recalls his encounters with violence and trauma in remote policing. He recounts a terrifying riot where he and a colleague had to run for their lives and a distressing case involving a young girl's suicide on a remote island. These experiences led to severe PTSD, which Damien initially struggled to recognise and accept. The episode further explores his journey through the diagnosis, the impact on his personal life, and the challenges of seeking treatment and support.
Key Takeaways
Contact - Damien Mullen
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app
"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"
Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC
Support the show
Mindful Meditation and Breath Work with Andy | Focus & Relaxation Techniques
Join Andy in this 30-minute online mindful meditation and breath work session by RSL Active. Learn techniques to increase focus, eliminate distractions, and achieve a state of deep relaxation. Practice purposeful breathing and visualization, all designed to help you calm your mind and enhance your concentration. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their mindfulness and productivity.
00:00 Welcome to Mindful Meditation
00:27 Understanding Mindfulness and Breath Work
01:07 Eliminating Distractions for Better Focus
02:37 Deep Breathing Exercise
05:55 Full Body Relaxation
08:46 Maintaining Focus and Relaxation
10:28 Practical Tips for Staying Focused
13:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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The next theme of the series is "Post Traumatic Growth"
In this episode of the Invisible Injuries podcast, host Andy Fermo interviews ex-Senior Constable Damien Mullen, a former first responder who served in the police forces of both the Northern Territory and Victoria. Damien shares his journey from becoming a police officer out of necessity to navigating the challenges of working in remote and urban environments.
In the early stages of their chat, Damien recounts his early life, the decision to move to Darwin for better opportunities, and the unexpected path that led him to join the police force. He discusses the initial challenges and adjustments required when starting his police career in a new environment, including the demanding nature of police work and the impact on his young family.
The latter half of the episode delves deeper into Damien's experiences working in remote areas like Alice Springs and Borroloola. He describes the intense and often violent situations he encountered, the cultural differences he had to navigate, and the emotional toll of witnessing and dealing with traumatic events. Damien also shares how the camaraderie and support among colleagues helped him cope with the pressures of the job.
Key Takeaways
Contact - Damien Mullen
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app
"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"
Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC
Support the show
In this episode of the Invisible Injuries podcast, hosts Andy Fermo and Stu McKenzie engage in a candid conversation about the journey of healing and personal growth after trauma. The discussion emphasizes the importance of clarity, accountability, and goal-setting in pursuing one's vision, drawing from their own experiences with creating the Invisible Injuries campaign.
They highlight the non-linear nature of healing, likening it to a layered path with rocky patches and moments of triumph. As the conversation unfolds, they delve into the significance of reevaluating relationships and making choices that align with personal values and strengths.
Throughout, they stress the role of adversity in building resilience and the value of psychological support in maintaining mental well-being. The episode concludes with reflections on the power of self-compassion and forward-focused therapy in navigating life's challenges.
Key Takeaways:
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The podcast currently has 122 episodes available.
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