On this week's podcast, I speak with Talissa Papamau (TJ), an Afghanistan veteran and former combat medic who served in the Australian Army. Her deployment as part of MTF5 spans the highest loss of Australian life in a 24hr period since the Vietnam War. In this podcast, TJ talks about trying to save the lives of 7 KIAs and 33 WIA Australian casualties in addition to scores of local national Afghani men, women and children.

2nd July 2012 - Sgt Blaine Diddams MG 29th August 2012 - Spr James Martin Pte Robert Poate, LCPL Ross Milosevic 30th August 2012 - LCPL Mervin McDonald & Pte Nathaniel Galagher 21st October - CPL Scot Smith

TJ also treated double amputee Curtis McGrath, once he was aero medically evacuated to the resuscitation facility in Tarin Kowt who she met him in 2010 as part of the Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Program. Due to operational demands, TJ provided advanced life-saving treatment for 170 consecutive days, receiving 1.5 days of respite whilst deployed. TJ later instructed the pilot course to train and qualify medics of the PNG Defence helping to re-establish PNGDF Medical Corps, which she recalls as a career highlight. Since leaving the Australian Defence Force, TJ has worked as a consultant to the federal government in the Defence and Veteran Support Sectors and remains one of the only female former NCOs to be engaged in senior levels of Government. This is a raw and honest chat about the cost of war from the medics who are the forgotten heroes. This is a powerful journey of redemption and finding light at the end of the dark tunnel, and finding purpose again post-military.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Talissa Papamau (TJ), Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with former Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment veteran Kurt Ludke. Kurt was born in Invercargill, NZ, and later moved to Western Australia. Kurt joined the army in 1998. After basic training, he was posted to 1 RAR in Townsville. Kurt faced adversity early in his career looisng his Mum to an aneurysm. Kurt took a compassionate posting for a few months before posting back to 1 RAR.

Kurt deployed on multiple overseas deployments include multiple trips to East Timor, Afghanistan & Iraq. In 2005, Kurt applied and was selected for selection in 4 RAR Commando. After passing selection, Kurt moved into the reo cycle, where he was successful and posted into the regiment.

Kurt served on SOTG Rot 4 in Afghanistan in 2007, Rot 8 in 2008, and Rot 12 in 2010. In the lead-up to Rot 12, Kurt and his company lost a good friend, Mason Edwards, in a prep deployment exercise. This was the start of several losses for the Company.

Kurt was involved in the Battle of Shah Wali Kot. Only a few days later, on the 21st of June, three Australian Commando's were killed in a Blackhawk helicopter. Kurt talks about being on the ground that day when he arrived at the crash.

Kurt went on to serve on TAG EAST, and the Special Forces Training Centre SFTC Kurt also served in Iraq. Kurt talks about burnout and suffering from PTSD, losing mates, and, after 19 years of service, having an administrative discharge. Like all veterans and first responders, Kurt struggled with the transition back to civilian life. He found purpose again, completing his MBA in 2022 and representing Australia at the Invictus Games in 2023. This is a powerful chat about the cost of serving at the elite level and finding purpose again after service.

Presenter: Adam Blum

Guest: Kurt Ludke

Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with Robert Kilsby, a former Australian Special Forces Special Air Services Regiment Vietnam combat veteran. Born on Boxing Day in 1951 in the small coal-mining town of Leigh Creek, South Australia, Robert's early years were steeped in the spirit of adventure—bushland escapades, go-kart races, and the kind of rugged independence that would come to define his life. By age 14, Robert had already experienced one of life's hardest lessons—his parents' separation. But instead of falling, he rose. He understood something rare at that age: that people, even parents, are human. That insight marked the beginning of a lifelong journey of resilience, purpose, and service. In 1969, just one day after Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, Robert began his military career. He joined the Australian Regular Army with a determination to be a part of the Vietnam War before it ended. Not long after, at just 18 and a half years old, he became one of the youngest soldiers to be badged as an SAS Trooper—an elite path marked by grit, humour, and unstoppable drive. From high-risk operations, including those with SEAL Team 1 in Vietnam, to developing unconventional warfare tactics back home, Robert helped shape the future of Australia's Special Forces. His career spanned infantry, intelligence, Mandarin Chinese language training, and leadership roles in SASR counterterrorism operations. His post-military life has been just as extraordinary. From founding Veterans In Motorsport – Australia, to paddling 2,450 kilometres down the Murray River at age 70 to raise funds for homeless veterans. Even after facing down stage 4 cancer in 2022 and open-heart surgery in 2024, Robert's next mission is already underway: becoming a keynote speaker and author. His message? 'Ultimate Freedom – How to Be in Charge of Yourself' from his 2026 book Ultimate Freedom – The Five Fundamental Principles to Being In Charge of Yourself. A philosophy forged in fire, lived on two battlefields—one in combat, the other in life. You're about to hear from a man who's never stopped pushing limits—who embodies courage, service, and reinvention.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Robert Kilsby Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with former Australian Special Forces Special Air Services Regiment Commanding Officer Colonel ret Paul Burns DSC & Bar. Paul served as both a soldier and an officer in the Australian Defence Force for 25 years, with operational tours to Bosnia, Afghanistan and Iraq.

During his service, he commanded 1 SAS Squadron in the Western Desert during the invasion of Iraq and was tasked with a mission of vital strategic importance, for which he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) and Australia's first Unit Citation for Gallantry. From 2009, he commanded the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR), Australia's most elite Special Forces unit, tasked with solving the Australian government's most urgent, politically sensitive and dangerous situations within Australia and overseas. In 2010, he commanded all of Australia's Special Forces in Afghanistan and executed an operational plan that resulted in the liberation of over 30,000 Afghan civilians from Taliban control, and the removal of numerous very senior Taliban leaders, for which he received a Bar to the DSC. His rotation was awarded a Battle Honour for the Shah Wali Kot Offensive, the first and only since the Vietnam War.

Paul is an honour graduate of the United States Marine Corps School of Advanced Warfighting (SAW) and holds two Master's degrees. In 2012, Paul discharged from the Army after 25 years of service. Paul is currently the owner of several companies that provide immersive live fire shooting capabilities, immersive training solutions and strategic security services for Australian and international customers. He is also the founder of Heroes and Horses Australia, a 41-day program for combat veterans that "un-programs the programmed" post military service. Paul is married with two adult children.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest :Paul Burns DSC & Bar Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this weeks podcast, I speak with Ironwoman and world record holder, Bonnie Hancock. Bonnie spent 254 days, travelled 12,700 kilometres, battled sea sickness, sharks, crocodiles, and the ocean. Bonnie broke numerous records on her fastest ever circumnavigation by paddle around Australia, but that wasn't the achievement she is most proud of. Testing the limits of her mental and physical toughness, she learned what it means to overcome adversity and how important teamwork and perspective truly are. What looks distressing from the rocky shore or storm-tossed waves can be inspiring when you look to the heavens. Bonnie is the author of "The Girl Who Touched the Stars", which is a love story, a travelogue, and an exhilarating exploration of human ambition coming face-to-face with the beauty and power of nature. But most of all, it's a lesson in overcoming self- doubt, trusting others and finding your true self. Bonnie demonstrates vividly and honestly the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of reaching for the stars. Bonnie talks about growing up as a young surf lifesaver and competing in the Ironwoman series with her older sister Courtney, and what it takes to compete at the elite level. This is a raw and honest, powerful chat about pushing your body to the limit and discovering who you. Bonnie set a target to raise $100,000 for the charity Gotcha4Life. Bonnie achieved that goal as she paddled into the finish line on the Gold Coast after paddling for 254 days and 12,700 Kilometres.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Bonnie Hancock Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with former Marine Specialist Chris Ghalayini. Chris joined the Australian Army in transport before transferring to a specialist role as a Marine Specialist. He served across East Timor, Iraq, and within a Special Operations Unit, living a career built on discipline, purpose, and service. Chris thought he would wear the uniform for life, but everything changed the day a back injury brought his journey to a sudden halt. It wasn't just the end of his military career; it was the start of a new battle he never saw coming. In this podcast, Chris shares his story in full. The highs of service. The deployments that grounded Chris for life. The pride of serving as a Marine Specialist in SOCOMD, one of the most adverse environments in the Defence Force. Chris also talks about the back injury that ended his career due to the pain he was suffering; it sent Chris into a dark place. After 6 doctors said no to operating on his back, the 7 th doctor was willing to operate. This gave Chris a new outlook on life. Unfortunately, after this operation, Chris suffered a stroke in early 2024 during his recovery, he was determined to live for his family. Chris discusses the medical separation and the transition that no soldier is ever truly prepared for. This isn't just a story about hardship. It's about rebuilding, redefining purpose. Finding strength outside the uniform, learning that sometimes the greatest comeback starts the moment life knocks you down. This is Chris's journey before, during, and after Defence. Chris is now an entrepreneur who is the managing director of Poseidon Seas Group, which specialises in the luxury yacht space. Chris now gives veterans and first Responders a way to transition after service and give them purpose again by giving them opportunities to work. Chris is still serving, just in a different uniform and a different way. This is raw, honest and a story of redemption.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Chris Ghalayini Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with Former Victorian Police Officer Charlie Bezzina. Charlie was one of Victoria's top Homicide detectives. In his 17 years in the Homicide Squad, he investigated more than 300 suspicious deaths, including 150 murders - among them the crimes of serial killer Paul Denyer, better known as the Frankson Serial Killer. Charlie also talks about the killing of Melbourne gangland figure Alphonse Gangitano and several murders that followed from that murder, and the Melbourne Gangland War Murders. After 38 distinguished years of service, Charlie resigned from the police and moved into the private sector, working with the Australian Cricket Team and taking a lead role in developing an investigations unit at Greyhound Racing Victoria. Charlie published his autobiography in 2010 called The Job, Policing from the front line, becoming a best seller. Charlie is now retired and enjoying life after service.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Charlie Bezzina Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs) veteran Emma Donaldson. Emma served for 20 years, both full-time and as a reservist. Emma served in several units throughout Australia. Emma served at 152 Signal Squadron attached to the Special Air Service Regiment in Perth. Emma excelled in her role and would later meet her future husband while serving at 152 Squadron. Emma is a veteran/wife, Mother and the first I have interviewed talking about the role of wives and children back at home while their partners are deployed overseas.

Emma met and is married to Mark Donalson VC. Mark served in the SASR and was awarded the Victoria Cross for his action in combat in Afghanistan in 2008. Emma talks openly about the day she found out that Mark would be awarded the highest bravery award, the Victoria Cross. Emma talks about the good and the bad aspects of the Victoria Cross on families. Emma supported Mark through 7 tours of duty while balancing home life as a full-time Mum. Emma also talks about how important the support of the wives and partners is while their partners are deployed. Emma speaks about the loss of friends, her postnatal depression, and her miscarriage, the struggle that all veterans and first responders face when transitioning out of uniform. Emma also talks about rediscovering her identity and purpose as a civilian.

Emma now works as a Veterans Liaison Officer for Legacy Club Services, advocating for veterans and their families. This is a raw and honest chat about the true cost of service as a veteran and life at home supporting your partner of a special forces operator and rediscovering yourself post-service.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Emma Donaldson Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with former US Marine / Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Officer / DEA Agent Bret Hamilton. Bret served in the US Marine Corps as a commissioned Officer. Bret deployed in the 1 st Gulf War. Bret left the Marines and, still having a willingness to serve, he joined the Charlotte–Mecklenburg Police Department as a Patrol Officer. After a couple of years, Bret applied and was accepted to join the DEA Drug Enforcement Agency. Bret worked undercover and worked throughout the US. In 2009, Bret became a member of the Foreign Deployed Advisory Support Team (FAST). Bret deployed to Afghanistan in 2010; he was promoted to team leader after his first tour. In 2011, Bret deployed for his second tour to Afghanistan, working with Task Group 66. On this deployment, Bret was shot in the ass. After Bret recovered from being shot, he deployed in 2012 for his third and final deployment to Afghanistan. There, he met and worked alongside Heston Russell team commander of November Platoon. Bret continued to work in the DEA and was the Agent in charge in the state of Alabama. Recently, an interview conducted with Journalist Mark Willacy was used in the case against Heston Russell. Willacy changed what Bret said in the interview. Bret actually said he had nothing but high praise for Heston and the Commandos, and they were some of the most professional soldiers he ever served with, not what Willacy stated that he never wanted to work with Commandos and Heston. This is a raw and honest account.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Bret Hamilton Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with Special Air Service Regiment & Australian Federal Police veteran Doug Sheridan, Doug enlisted in the regular army in 1991, posting to 5/7 RAR. In 1997, Doug attempted and completed SASR selection. He served 33 years in the Australian Army and Special Operations in both full-time and reserve capacities. During his service, he deployed to various locations, including Tonga, Malaysia, East Timor, the Solomon Islands, and Afghanistan. Additionally, he served with the United Nations in West Sahara. He also served for 10 years as a Federal Agent with the Australian Federal Police (AFP). Doug talks about reaching rock bottom, having suicidal ideations, and losing purpose. The steps he took to find purpose again. This is a story of true grit, determination, courage, and owning your mistakes and succeeding at the elite level.

Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Doug Sheridan Editor: Kyle Watkins