The Curious Collective - Veterans & First Responders

Andy Fermo is the co-founder of Invisible Injuries, a charity created from his own personal experience and that of his wife. Despite not being a clinician, Andy has delved into the world of wellness and different modalities, seeking knowledge through his own lived experience. Coming from a military and ex-first responder background, he values leading by example. Invisible Injuries focuses on supporting veterans, first responders, and their immediate support system who are dealing with post traumatic stress. They take a holistic and evidence-based approach to their work, aiming to provide comprehensive care and navigate the journey to healing.

Jeff Garland is a remarkable individual whose journey from battling post traumatic stress to fully recovering and reclaiming his life is nothing short of inspiring. A retired senior Sergeant with 16 years of service in the New South Wales Police, Jeff now devotes his time to running his own business, specializing in mental health and post traumatic stress recovery and growth. With his lived experience, qualifications in NLP, Timeline Therapy, and Hypnotherapy, as well as tangible results, Jeff is dedicated to helping clients around the world process their past traumas and reclaim their lives. Through his compassionate and relatable approach, Jeff provides the support and guidance that those in the police force and military desperately need. His exceptional journey and comprehensive expertise make him a beacon of hope and transformation in the world of mental health.

Introducing Jordan McCallum (Qigong with Jordan). In this episode we dive into the fascinating world of yoga, Qigong, and their intersection with emotional release work. Jordan shares his personal journey, starting with his introduction to yoga in 2007 and subsequent exploration of various styles and practices, including the physical challenges and limitations he faced due to injuries. As a veteran with a high-stress history, Jordan offers valuable insights into the importance of finding the right yoga class or practice that aligns with one's physical abilities and preferences. We also discuss the profound benefits of taking dedicated time for yoga, Qigong, or meditation, and the incredible results that can be achieved when our nervous systems are given the space to recover and restore (find BALANCE). So sit back, relax, and join us on this enlightening exploration of the mind-body connection and the power of finding deeper meaning in every breath and movement. Welcome to The Curious Collective! www.qigongwithjordan.com.au

00:01:25 Started yoga, but physical injuries ended practice.

00:05:48 Different needs and circumstances create unique stress. Qigong helps with physical injuries and stress. Yoga led to qigong for me.

00:07:59 Numerous trips to India, Indonesia, and Europe, emphasizing the transformative power of yoga and meditation.

00:13:24 Incomplete job, stress in normal life.

00:14:02 Connectedness, stress, environment, reaction, projection, opinion, nurture.

00:18:30 Good teacher explains cues for positive experience.

00:20:43 Breathing affects movement; spectrum of effects.

00:24:10 Consult veteran for guidance on suitable yoga class.

00:27:57 Craving exercise energizes and revitalizes the body.

Book a session with me to find your flow:

https://tidycal.com/powerwithin/15-minute-connection-call

Stefan van Ryswyk, the founder of Shoshinry, is a former military and intelligence professional who has experienced a transformative journey. Inspired by the Zen Buddhist principle of Shoshin, meaning beginner's mind, Stefan discovered a new perspective that brought positive changes to his life.

Now, his business primarily focuses on the corporate sector, particularly in the field of health and wellness. However, Stefan's approach goes beyond surface-level improvements. He believes in fostering the best version of a business by nurturing its teams and individuals from the inside out. The remarkable results he achieves are seen as natural byproducts rather than the core objective.

Interestingly, Stefan has observed that businesses receive greater returns on investment when they prioritise investing in their people and taking a holistic approach. Thus, he enjoys collaborating with organisations that share this vision of wholeheartedly investing in their employees.

www.shoshinry.com

00:00:53 Business helping corporate teams and individuals thrive.

00:04:44 Curiosity about mindset leads to military experiences.

00:09:32 Different deployments, rocket attacks, stress, stoic principle.

00:13:16 Legend brings yoga to military unit successfully.

00:14:40 Correlation between emotions, physical symptoms, and business impact.

00:19:11 Looking back, it's what we need. Information abundant, grandparents' trauma, different challenges.

00:21:17 Leadership is seeing opportunities through curiosity.

00:23:41 Biases, numbness make it hard to see subtle layers.

00:28:00 Aligning internal and external worlds for success.

00:29:58 Grateful for shared wisdom, future collaboration.

In this enlightening episode of our podcast, we delve into the incredible life and mindset of Tim Thomas, a man who truly defies the odds. Join us as we explore his remarkable journey and discover the profound importance of sleep in achieving greatness.
Tim Thomas, a fearless individual, is no stranger to challenging circumstances. His extraordinary ability to embrace daunting ice-bound tasks and remain steady in the face of adversity is truly inspiring. While many are quick to shy away from the cold, Tim refuses to let external factors dictate his actions.
In this episode, we'll explore how Tim's unique perspective on life's stimuli has set him apart from the crowd. Instead of succumbing to fear or discomfort, he confidently and effortlessly clicks into action, unafraid to confront and conquer any obstacle that comes his way.
But what makes this episode truly special is our deep dive into the importance of sleep and how breathwork is the key to a good night's rest. Tim's experiences have taught him the vital role of sleep in achieving peak performance and overall well-being. He'll share his insights on how breathwork techniques have transformed his sleep quality and how they can do the same for you.
As a bonus, be sure to check out Tim's website at www.breathworkinbed.com.au, where he offers exclusive resources and guidance on how to harness the power of breathwork for better sleep. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a true soul and discover the secrets to unlocking the full potential of your sleep through breathwork.

[00:04:07] Enhancing connection and removing blockages is crucial.

[00:08:35] Ancient Chinese mythology and empowering seekers.

[00:09:40] Promise-breakers, trust issues push PTSD vet.

[00:14:50] Connecting to yourself before others, pain relief, giving abundance.

[00:18:16] Generosity led to darkness, self-investment brought success.

[00:22:08] Invest in yourself, rise above the rest.

[00:24:40] Invest in yourself, generate more energy daily.

[00:27:59] Outside the herd, constant threat, stay vigilant.

[00:32:04] High fatigue, argument, gun turret, existential despair.

[00:34:39] Breath work improves sleep and energy levels.

[00:37:37] Brew bitch learns value of connection through coffee.

[00:42:30] New Breathwork in Bed app for relaxation.

[00:44:12] More investment leads to acts of generosity.

[00:49:33] Decisions now impact future people positively.

[00:52:04] "Vagus clearing exercise for stress relief."

[00:55:38] Clear energy and unlock jaw with towel.

Mike Armstrong is a passionate advocate for storytelling through art and martial arts. For nearly a decade, he has been running an artist studio in Canberra, where he works with veterans and first responders. In his studio, Mike helps these individuals express their experiences and tell their stories through various art forms. He also collaborates with them, becoming a muse or subject that generates conversations around their personal journeys. This art program, called Voices of Veterans, has gained recognition and traveled across Australia, sharing the stories of veterans living with various challenges. While currently in the process of moving, Mike's dedication to his communities and his love for art and martial arts continue to make his heart sing. To learn more about his work, you can visit Mike Armstrong's Instagram page and the Voices of Veterans website www.voicesofveterans.com.au

00:03:02 Evolved workshops, veteran show, BJJ club, art and martial arts programs, diverse community, academic research, expanding premises.

00:12:01 Trust yourself, learn and create with confidence.

00:15:18 Present moment focus in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

00:19:10 23 years in army, diverse roles, diagnosed with PTSD.

00:20:43 Body shut down, memory loss, chronic pain. PTSD treatment, discharge.

00:26:48 Clarity of mind, lower pain, energy.

00:29:44 Sarah key in artistic practice during illness.

00:34:01 Martial arts and yoga intertwine, sparking insight and revealing similarities in people and philosophies.

00:36:27 Open to travel, art venues, broad audience.

00:39:35 Mike Armstrong is on various social media platforms and has multiple programs. He advises taking care of yourself for the benefit of your community.

Holly is an enthusiastic artist, passionate psychedelic therapy advocate, and the co-founder of Heroic Hearts Project Australia alongside Australian Veteran Michael. This organisation, which already has branches in the US, UK, and Canada, focuses on providing access to psychedelic medicines for veterans and first responders. Though they are still in the early stages of their journey, Holly and Michael are thrilled to collaborate with the Heroic Hearts Project team in other countries, who have already achieved remarkable results with their retreats in Peru. With a strong drive and determination, Holly is eager to make a positive impact in the lives of those who have served their communities and country.

www.instagram.com/heroicheartsprojectaustralia

Troy Methorst is a multi-faceted individual who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. As a veteran mentor, he is actively involved in a business that strives to bring about positive changes and impact the lives of children in the community.

However, Troy's journey doesn't end there. He has recently found a new calling in the field of sound healing and breath work, where he delves deep into the power of sound and breath to promote physical and spiritual healing. With a strong desire to help others, Troy has also ventured into coaching, specifically working with parents to guide them on their own paths of personal growth.

Troy's journey is one of continual self-exploration and discovery, as he seeks to uncover his inner gifts and share them with the community.

Through his various endeavors, he strives to bring about positive change and make a lasting impact on those around him.

00:02:23 Using 7 words: Body sensing leads to meaningful sound.

00:05:06 Parent retreat discovers power of body connection.

00:10:13 Breath work practice uses triggering and completion.

00:13:05 Troy's journey from military to healing.

00:18:41 Ice bath challenge leads to personal growth.

00:22:50 Exploring energy, resonance, and transformative experiences.

00:27:02 Embrace breath and sound healing, seek connection.

00:28:09 Follow your path, not others. Prioritize joy.

Join Lex Reilly on an exhilarating journey into the heart of nature. Discover how skill, awareness, and a deep connection to the natural world can transform not only your life but the world around you. Lex delves into the wild, exploring our inner animalistic instincts and their connection to the world beyond. Uncover the secrets of your own instincts, hormones, and drivers, and their harmonious dance with other species. Lex's passion for the wild goes beyond tourism; he is on a quest to make the wilderness his true home. Tune in and embark on a captivating exploration of the untamed with Lex, ex Australian Army veteran and all-round Arctic Warrior.

00:01:32 Nature connection fosters powerful connection with wild.

00:06:17 Formal recognition of animals in zoos' behavior.

00:08:07 Military career imploded, found solace in nature.

00:13:49 Germany to Norway immigration disrupted sense of calm.

00:17:31 Challenging journey led to life-changing liberation.

00:22:36 Sailing, exploring remote coast, adjusting to nature.

00:25:17 Small team ventures to remote, secluded places.

00:28:03 Incompetence, restoration, sleep, food, comfort, exploration, reflection.

00:32:07 Reflections on personal challenges, change, and growth.

00:36:49 Fun Instagram, informative YouTube. Follow for direction, DM for more. Combining combat and self-development for modern masculinity.

00:39:20 Any final thoughts for our listeners?

Welcome back to another episode of The Curious Collective podcast, where we delve into holistic ways to support the lives of veterans and first responders. In this episode, our amazing guest is Will Gold, founder of Dig In Health Co.

I discovered Will on social media and was immediately drawn to his unique perspective on the importance of nutrition in the veteran and first responder space. Will's journey, from growing up on the Sunshine Coast to joining the military and eventually becoming a dietitian, has shaped his passion for improving health and well-being. Through his experiences working in indigenous health and with clients dealing with complex mental health issues, Will brings a fresh and impactful approach to his work.

Join us as we explore how Will is making a difference in the veteran health space and challenging the traditional allied health model. Get ready for an inspiring conversation on living your best life by nourishing not just the body, but the mind and soul as well.

Dig In Health Co

00:02:03 Left school, joined military, got curious about health and nutrition, became dietitian.

00:06:08 Returned to East Coast, connected to community. Established business in Sunshine Coast. Specialized in complex mental health. Veteran health important due to family history.

00:09:47 Working hard, building rapport, connecting with people.

00:13:23 Nutrition is complicated due to competing interests. Simplify: take control, cook whole foods.

00:15:57 Gut health and mental health relationship explored.

00:17:55 The gut is complex, with microbial activity.

00:23:59 Answer why improving health is important.

00:25:59 Recognize, accept, and choose a positive path.