From the Tower of London to Castlerock, one veterans journey as a Yeoman Warder to settling in NI.

Welcome to Once a Warrior: Life Beyond the Uniform.

In this episode, we’re joined by Shaun Huggins, a former British Army soldier whose second act saw him don the iconic red and gold of a Yeoman Warder or Beef-eater at the Tower of London. Known for his engaging presence with the public and steeped in centuries-old tradition, Shaun brings a rich ceremonial perspective to what it means to serve.  Shaun reflects on identity, heritage, and the quiet pride of life beyond the Tower.

In this episode of Once a Warrior: Life Beyond the Uniform, we speak with Rachael Harger, a former Royal Military Police officer who completed two tours in Afghanistan.

In this episode, we meet Big Phil Campion, a man whose journey from the care system to the elite ranks of the 22 SAS is nothing short of remarkable.

In this episode we sit down with Steven Clarke, a former Royal Navy officer with a career that took him across oceans - and ultimately to Northern Ireland. In this candid conversation, Steven shares what drew him to a life at sea, the places and people that left the biggest mark, and what transitioning into civilian life taught him about leadership, identity, and the enduring bond of service.

In this episode of Once a Warrior: Life Beyond the Uniform, we speak with Janet - a former Ulster Defence Regiment Greenfinch who served during some of the most turbulent years of the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

Janet reflects on her unique experience as a female soldier on the frontlines at home, balancing service and motherhood in a time of immense pressure and uncertainty. Today, she continues to serve through her work with the Royal British Legion Women’s Section, supporting veterans and their families - especially those involved in the Invictus Games.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation about courage, compassion, and the vital role of women in both conflict and community.

In this episode of Once a Warrior: Life Beyond the Uniform, we speak with Graham Fergus, a former Irish Guardsman who shares an honest account of life after service - the struggle of losing structure, hitting rock bottom, and finding strength through his military roots.

He reflects on how his time in the Irish Guards helped carry him through his darkest moments, and the lasting bond within the regiment - highlighted the regiment's support to the recent centenary birthday of Captain John Gough, the oldest living Irish Guardsman.

In this episode of Once A Warrior: Life Beyond the Uniform, we sit down with David Johnstone, Northern Ireland's Veterans Commissioner, to get straight to the point - why did he take on this role, what real change does he plan to deliver, and how will he fight to make life better for veterans in Northern Ireland? No fluff, no politics - just honest answers about the challenges, the battles ahead, and the future he's working to build. 

In this episode of Once a Warrior: Life Beyond the Uniform, we speak with a female veteran, who served as an engineering officer in the RAF. Now deeply involved in the Women's Network in Northern Ireland working with Ashes to Gold, she continues to inspire and support others through her work. We explore her journey through military service, leadership, and her mission beyond the uniform.