In this powerful two part episode of UThink, host Rose sits down with Allan Sparkes, a decorated former police officer and mental health advocate, to explore the journey from crisis to recovery—and why endurance matters more than resilience. Allan shares his deeply personal experiences, from a harrowing child rescue that led to his Cross of Valour, to his own battle with PTSD and mental health struggles.
With raw honesty, Allan discusses the importance of operational readiness—a proactive approach to mental wellbeing that can prevent burnout before it begins. From sleep science to emotional regulation, he sheds light on the strategies that keep frontline workers, educators, and everyday Australians thriving in high-stress environments.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating stress, trauma, or the demands of modern life. It’s not just about bouncing back—it’s about staying strong, prepared, and in control.
To learn more about today's topic click on the following links:
· Allan Sparkes - https://www.allansparkes.com
· Beyond Blue – https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
· Cross of Valour - https://www.pmc.gov.au/honours-and-symbols/list-australian-honours/cross-valour
· Why sleep is the key to wellbeing - https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/publications/sleep-matters-impact-sleep-health-and-wellbeing
· Dr David Said - https://www.dsclinicalpsychology.com/about
· Impactify - https://impactify.au
This episode was produced by Simon Gilchrist https://www.linkedin.com/in/simongilchrist/?originalSubdomain=au and sponsored by Vuvale - https://vuvale.com.au/
Music in this episode is licensed by Impactify Pty Ltd 2025 and composed and produced by Edward Andrew Schravemade [Schrav]. All rights reserved.