Phil Campion Unfiltered
Join former 22 SAS Trooper Big Phil Campion as he interviews serving and veteran military personnel, first responders, elite sportsmen, and inspirational figures from across the globe. New episodes every week.
Episodes
Inside the Hell of Iraq & Fallujah | Recon Marine Rudy Reyes
What does it take to survive the chaos of Iraq and the hell of Fallujah? Recon Marine Rudy Reyes knows the answer.In this explosive episode of The Debrief, SAS veteran Big Phil Campion sits down with Rudy to hear the untold story of a warrior forged by hardship, brotherhood, and battle. From growing up in foster care and taking custody of his brothers at just 18, to mastering martial arts and beco
SAS Veteran & The Explosion That Almost Killed Ben McBean
In this episode of The Debrief, Ben McBean, a former Royal Marine, joins former SAS Veteran Big Phil Campion to share his incredible story. After joining the Royal Marines at sixteen, Ben was deployed to Afghanistan, where he was severely injured in an explosion, losing his right leg and left arm. Despite the catastrophic injuries, Ben's mental strength and determination saw him push through h
SAS Veteran & The Battle No One Talks About | Henno’s Story
Henno, former Mercian Regiment soldier, joins SAS Veteran Big Phil Campion for a powerful episode of The Debrief. He opens up about his deployment on Herrick 15, first contact with the Taliban, surviving IED strikes, and the loss of a brother-in-arms. He also shares his battlewith PTSD, psychosis, and the struggle to rebuild his life after service in one of the hardest fights he’s ever faced.Subsc
Red Beret to Rehab Warrior: Zoe Robson’s Fight for Veterans with SAS Veteran Phil Campion
Zoe Robson, former Royal Military Police Corporal, joins Big Phil Campion for an episode of Success After Service to share her incredible journey from soldier to business owner. From the age of three, she was determined to wear the red beret, overcoming every obstacle to earn her place in the RMP. Serving across Germany and Iraq, she built a career in policing and intelligence before making the di
Farren Morgan’s Journey from Military to 'THE TACTICAL ATHLETE'
In this episode, former 22 SAS legend Big Phil Campion sits down with Farren Morgan the powerhouse behind 'The Tactical Athlete'.A former Queens Guard, Kings Guard, Paratrooper, and British Army Physical Trainer, Farren has dedicated his life to turning everyday people into elite performers. Now, he helps aspiring soldiers and service members crush military tests like P Company, the Comman
SAS Veteran meets 104yr Old RAF WW2 Mosquito Bomber Pilot
In this episode of The Debrief, former SAS hardman Big Phil Campion sits down with Squadron Leader Colin S. Bell DFC AE — a true British hero and one of the last living legends of World War Two.Colin flew 50 combat missions over Nazi Germany in a Mosquito bomber, including 13 raids over Berlin, dodging flak and fighters night after night as part of the elite Pathfinder Force. He trained in the USA
SAS Veteran & The Explosion That Almost Killed Ben McBean
In this episode of The Debrief, Ben McBean, a former Royal Marine, joins former SAS Veteran Big Phil Campion to share his incredible story. After joining the Royal Marines at sixteen, Ben was deployed to Afghanistan, where he was severely injured in an explosion, losing his right leg and left arm. Despite the catastrophic injuries, Ben's mental strength and determination saw him push through h
SAS Veteran & The Battle No One Talks About | Henno’s Story
Henno, former Mercian Regiment soldier, joins SAS Veteran Big Phil Campion for a powerful episode of The Debrief. He opens up about his deployment on Herrick 15, first contact with the Taliban, surviving IED strikes, and the loss of a brother-in-arms. He also shares his battlewith PTSD, psychosis, and the struggle to rebuild his life after service in one of the hardest fights he’s ever faced.Follo
SAS Veteran talks to Special Forces K9 Trainer | Kieron Hawkes Story
Former UK Special Forces military dog trainer Kieron Hawkes is on the podcast with former 22 SAS member Big Phil Campion. Kieron shares his incredible journey of 14 years spent training and handling dogs in some of the most remote and high-stakes environments, including his time with the canine training team within the renowned 22 Special Air Service. After being medically discharged due to mental
SAS: Rogue Heroes & Real Combat | Alex Mason’s Journey
In this episode, Alex Mason sits down with Big Phil Campion to share his journey from a tough upbringing to the military and beyond. From The Parachute Regiment to starring in SAS: Rogue Heroes, Alex’s path has been anything but ordinary.After earning his maroon beret, he deployed to Afghanistan in 2013, later moving into security and working with high-profile clients. His break in film and TV cam
A Soldier's side hustle: The combat clipper company story
In this episode of Success After Service, former 22 SAS member Big Phil Campion sits down with Teague Young, founder and CEO of Combat Clipper Company, to discuss his journey from military life to entrepreneurship. As a Colour Sergeant with 16 years of service in 2 Royal Anglian, Teague has completed operational tours in Afghanistan and Mali, represented the Army in multiple sports, and now leads
SAS Veteran Interviews Bomb Disposal Officer BLOWN UP in Falklands War!
In this gripping account, John shares his extraordinary journey of bravery, sacrifice, and survival. As a Royal Engineers Bomb Disposal Officer during the Falklands War in 1982, John was caught in a devastating explosion on HMS Antelope that cost him his left arm and took the life of his close comrade, Staff Sergeant Jim Prescott. Despite this life-changing injury, John’s determination to continue
SAS Veteran Meets The Incredible Widow Behind ‘Scotty’s Little Soldiers’
In this powerful video, Nikki Scott, founder of Scotty’s Little Soldiers, shares her deeply personal journey of grief and resilience. After losing her husband, Lee, to an IED explosion in Afghanistan in 2009, Nikki was left to navigate life as a single mother while grappling with her own heartache. But through her pain, she found strength and purpose, ultimately founding the charity to support ber
DOUBLE AMPUTEE GURKHA LEGEND | Hari Budha Magar's story
In this episode of The Debrief, Big Phil Campion speaks with Hari Budha Magar, a former Gurkha soldier and the first double above-knee amputee veteran to summit Mount Everest. Hari’s incredible journey from serving as a Combat Medic, Sniper, and Covert Surveillance Specialist in the British Army, to overcoming life-changing injuries caused by an IED in Afghanistan, is a testament to resilience and
Royal Navy HERO Survives Torpedo Attack in WW2
In this episode of The Debrief, Big Phil Campion speaks with John King, a 100-year-old World War 2 veteran and surviving crew member of HMS Janus.
At just 18, John served in the Royal Navy and faced harrowing challenges during the Battle of Anzio on 23rd January 1944, when HMS Janus was sunk by a flying torpedo. Of the crew, 160 lives were lost, and only 80 survived. John is now the sole survivin
Dave Radband former SFSG shares HARROWING experiences as a UK Special Forces Soldier!
At just 16, Dave Radband joined the British Army and went on to serve in some of the most intense combat zones of Iraq and Afghanistan. A soldier in the Parachute Regiment and part of the elite Special Forces Support Group, Dave led countless high-risk missions, earning a Mention in Dispatches for gallantry. But his battles didn’t end on the battlefield.
Join Big Phil as he explores Dave’s extrao
Lily-Mae Fisher's journey as a Royal Navy COMMANDO | The Debrief
In this episode of The Debrief, Big Phil Campion speaks with Lily-Mae, a serving Naval Officer and helicopter pilot trainee who has achieved the extraordinary title of Britain’s only female serving Royal Navy Commando. Lily-Mae shares her journey through the grueling 16-week All Arms Commando Course, earning the coveted green beret and joining the ranks of an elite group.
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Surviving Combat & PTSD | Former PARA MI5 Firefighter Andy Williams
In this Debrief episode, former SAS trooper Phil Campion sits down with Andy Williams to discuss his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to a career in the British Army’s Parachute Regiment, MI5, and the fire service. He opens up about the physical and emotional challenges of combat, his transition from the military due to post-traumatic stress, and his later roles in MI5, private secu
YOUNGEST ROYAL MARINE FIGHTING IN THE FALKLANDS WAR | Former Royal Marine Davey Robb
In this episode of The Debrief, former 22 SAS Trooper Big Phil Campion interviews Davey Robb, the youngest Royal Marine in the Falklands War and a former Commonwealth Games boxer. At just 16, Davey joined the Royal Marines, quickly rising as the fittest recruit. He played a key role in the Falklands, manning a General Purpose Machine Gun during intense battles and enduring the gruelling march to P
BASIC, BASRA, BOOTCAMP | Former Royal Marine Glynn Roberts
In this episode of The Debrief, former 22 SAS Trooper Big Phil Campion speaks to Glynn Roberts, former Royal Marine and founder of Essex Boot Camp (EBC)
Glynn shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Essex to serving in intense military operations, including deployments to Afghanistan after 9/11 and Iraq in 2004.
After leaving the Marines, Glynn transitioned into personal training, foun
UNLOCKING MILITARY MINDSET | Former Royal Marine Gareth Timmins
In this episode of The Debrief, former 22 SAS Trooper Big Phil Campion speaks to Gareth Timmins, former Royal Marine, and the author of the acclaimed book Becoming the 0.1% and brand new book, The 0.1% Academy.
At just twenty years old, Gareth completed thirty-four weeks of grueling Commando training, all while documenting his journey in a detailed diary—a unique and rare insight into elite milita
MICK HAWKES SAS PT 2 | Former 22 SAS Mick Hawkes QCB
In this episode of The Debrief, former 22 SAS Trooper Big Phil Campion speaks to Mick Hawkes QCB.
Welcome back to Part 2 of our fascinating conversation with Mick Hawkes, former SAS operative. This time, Mick delves deeper into his experiences from his time in the SAS as well as tackling rural crime and the critical importance of security training for farmers. Drawing from his extensive background
WHAT THE RUCK | Content Creator & Author Gareth De La Torre
In this episode of The Debrief, former 22 SAS Trooper Big Phil Campion speaks to Gareth De La Torre.
Born a ‘pad brat’ in Paderborn, Gareth began to follow his father’s journey, and joined junior leaders, but quickly discovered it wasn’t the career for him.
Finding himself in a lucrative, successful career in sales built Gareth his dream life, with expensive cars and holidays, before an accident
GIBRALTAR TRADING COMPANY | Former Royal Marines Commando PJ Harries
Born in Essex and moving around a lot in his younger years, PJ began to find himself fighting and getting into trouble, but he always had the military on his mind
Joining the air cadets aged 15, PJ wanted to be a fast jet pilot, but later his attention turned to the Green Beret’s of the Royal Marines. Pushing to join aged just 16, but persuaded to complete his schooling, PJ joined the Royal Marin
BLUE ON BLUE TRAGEDY | StrongMen Charity Founder Efrem Brynin
Born in Sussex, and pursuing his passion for music performing in bands, Efrem welcomed his first child aged 18. Growing up quickly, Efrem began a career in construction and quickly climbed the ladder whilst raising his children. Efrem's son James wanted to join the Parachute Regiment, but moved into the Intelligence Corps, where he would deploy on 2 tours of Afghanistan. On his second tour of
COMMANDO CONTENT CREATOR | Former Royal Marines Commando Ryan Forrest
Sunderland born and bred, Ryan faced adversity, violence & grief in his younger years, but had always had the military on his mind. Visiting the careers office aged 15, Ryan had his application submitted as soon as he was able to, desperate to get his Royal Marines Commando 'Green Lid'. Everything he ran from back home, caught up with him during training, and he withdrew himself from t
PARAMEDIC PREPPER | Former HEMS Paramedic Armouredcockroach
Born into a large family, and destined for a career at his fathers greengrocers, Roach decided to join the Army aged 17 and joined an infantry unit. First deployed to Gibraltar, where he first encountered members of the Special Forces, training alongside them for a hijacking response team role. Roach was unsuccessful in his attempts to pass SAS Selection, and went on to attempt 23 SAS (Reserve) Se
MICK HAWKES SAS | Former 22 Sas Mick Hawkes QCB
Born into a military family, Mick attended 14 schools over his childhood. His dream of being a professional footballer came to an end after an unsuccessful trial with Lincoln City and he visited the careers office aged 16 to join the 1975 junior paras course. An ankle injury left him unable to perform any jumps, and Mick briefly left the army before rejoining 29 Commando. Passing SAS Selection on
SPECIAL FORCES INTERROGATOR | Former 9 PARA SQN RE Ian 'Dilksy' Dilkes
Born in Leicester and a keen sportsman, Dilksy began to find trouble as a teenager, and realised the Army was his way out of that path. Nudged to join the Royal Engineers to ensure he learnt a trade, Ian completed his training as a bricklayer before completing his Parachute Regiment Jumps Course, and joining 9 Parachute Squadron Royal Engineers. His 24 year army career spanned 2 UN postings to Cyp
SURVIVING TALIBAN AMBUSH | Former Grenadier Guardsman Alex Harrison
Born in Lincolnshire & spending his younger years finding trouble, Alex knew the Army was the way out of his hometown and bad habits. Knuckling down and joining his local Army Cadet Force, Alex went to the Army Careers Centre aged just 15 and a half. Joining the Grenadier Guards and completing the additional ceremonial taskings, Alex joined his battalion and began pre-deployment training for I
PASHA MUNRO SBS | Former SBS Pasha Munro
A turbulent & abusive childhood led Pasha to find his own tribe in the form of the Sea Cadets. This passion for brotherhood & activity led him to try to join the Navy aged 16, but he faced a knock-back and instead joined the Royal Marines. Completing several uneventful tours of Northern Ireland, Pasha decided to attempt the arduous Selection Course in January 1997, the same course as Big P
2024 GLADIATORS CHAMPION | Maj Finlay Anderson (SCOTS)
Born & raised in Edinburgh, with a stint in the Army cadets fuelling his ambition to join the military, Finlay joined the Army after completing the RMA Sandhurst programme. Originally commissioned into 4 SCOTS, and then sent on the Platoon Commanders Battle Course in Brecon, Finlay deployed onto Op Herrick 14, followed by Op HERRICK 19 & Op SHADER 6 in Iraq. Continuing his passion for fitn
MELVYN DOWNES SAS | Former 22 SAS Sergeant Major Melvyn Downes
A tough childhood in Stoke in the 1960/70's meant Melvyn would have to stand up against bullies from a very young age, even alternating his routes home from school to avoid altercations. Finding his passion for the Armed Forces when he was a small child kept him motivated and out of trouble in his teenage years, rising up the ranks in the Army Cadets before joining junior leaders aged 16. Mult
NZSAS COUNTER TERRORISM | Former NZSAS Commando Damian Porter
Born in New Zealand, and with aspirations to join the Air Force, Damian then discovered a passion for fitness & bodybuilding. A stint as a personal trainer led him to a the Todd school of combat, and he trained extensively in hand to hand combat, a skillset that has continued to prove useful for him. Originally joining the Territorial Army in 1997, and deploying to East Timor, Damian transitio
THE55 FITNESS FOUNDER | Former RAPTC Chris Leare
A family steeped in military history, and a childhood desire to join the armed forces, Chris knew he wanted to be a PTI before he joined. Undertaking the weekend selection for the Royal Marines first however, led him to a chance encounter with a member of the Devonshire & Dorsets Regiment, who convinced him to join his county regiment instead. Deploying to Bosnia and Northern Ireland, before b
FIRE FIGHTING PARATROOPER | Former Paratrooper Chris Binch
Finding himself in trouble from a young age, Chris joined the Parachute Regiment at a moments notice. Serving 7 years with 2PARA, and completing 3 tours of Northern Ireland and exercises in Macedonia & Sierra Leone, Chris decided to move onto the Close Protection and Private Security Circuit. Some kinetic taskings and close calls on land and onboard ships fo anti-piracy work, Chris returned to
FAITH, FAMILY, FRUITCAKE | YouTuber & Force Radio Presenter The Sgt Fruitcake
Born in Leeds before moving out to the countryside, where he learnt to love the outdoors, he joined the military aged 16. Upon leaving the military, he found himself filling the void left by joining civvy street with all the wrong vices, until a close encounter with the Police led him to begin to change his life for the better. Eventually launching his YouTube channel @TheSgtFruitcake where he h
DEVGRU NAVY SEAL | Former U.S Navy Seal Andrew 'Sully' Sullivan
Sully had always had thoughts of a military career in the back of his mind, and the tragic events of 9/11 led him to find a recruiter and take the fight to the enemy as soon as he could. His mind set on being an operator, Sully signed a SEAL contract and completed the arduous training stages to achieve his spot in the coveted SEAL Team Two. 5 Years and 2 tours of Iraq later, Sully wanted to advanc
RED DEVILS PATHFINDER | Former Pathfinder Tom Blakey
By the time Tom was 7 years old, he knew he wanted to be a Paratrooper. Joining the cadets aged 13, and enlisting in the British Army aged 16, Tom began his career with Junior Para followed by P Company. 2 Northern Ireland tours & 5 Years in 1 Para later, and Tom was on the hunt for his next challenge, completing Pathfinder's Selection and deploying to Kosovo, Iraq & Afghanistan. Tom j
FEMALE FIGHTER PILOT | Former RAF Pilot Mandy Hickson
Naturally sporty & adventurous as a child, coupled with first-hand stories of flights from her WW2 pilot grandfather, Mandy joined the Air Cadets and began her flying career. Securing a flying scholarship, before progressing into the Birmingham University Air Squadron, Mandy faced both conscious and subconscious bias and challenges in her journey to the cockpit. Becoming the first woman to fly
BRITISH MILITARY PSYOPS | Former PSYOPS Tim Heale
Influenced by Saturday morning pictures, Tim gained an interest in the armed forces and joined both the Sea & Army Cadets before enlisting as a boy soldier with the Royal Anglians. A punchy tour of Northern Ireland in 1977, and 3 years at the Army Handgliding Centre later, Tim put in his papers to leave. He went on to join 21 SAS for a brief period, before transferring to a FTRS role where he
DELTA FORCE OPERATOR | Former Green Beret & Delta Force Brent Tucker
A 9th generation Floridian, Brent enjoyed his time, schooling & sports in his hometown, until the tragic events of 9/11 led him to ask what he could do for his country. First joining Air Defence, before completing the near-year long training to become a Green Beret, Brent didn't stop there, and continued to advance his career. After 4 tours as a Green Beret, Brent passed the selection proc
FIJIAN FRONTLINE FIGHTER | Former 2 RIFLES Titilia 'Tilly' Fisher
Born on the 3rd largest island in Fiji, Tilly enjoyed a childhood living off the land with her family, before continuing her education on the main island. It was here when the British Army visited on a recruitment drive and Tilly realised a life of military service was her purpose. Completing basic training at Pirbright, Tilly joined the Royal Logistics Corps (RLC) to gain her driving licenses bef
SAS MODERN WARRIOR | Former 22 SAS Lindsay Bruce
Born into the shadow of his 2 older brothers, and uninspired by the school system, Lindsay Bruce wasn't initially drawn to a life of military service and soon gained an interest in fitness. This base level of fitness would provide him the skillset to eventually follow his brothers into the Royal Highland Fusiliers, onto multiple overseas tours and then the infamous SAS Selection course. 6 acti
MILITARY MEDALS EXPERT | TV's Medals Specialist Mark Smith
Born into a family steeped in military history, Mark Smith began his medal collecting journey aged just 6 years old. Turning his hobby into a career, Mark is one of the leading, and most highly regarded experts in military medals, RAF flying logs and the Victoria Cross. Mark is the Resident Arms and Militaria specialist on the BBC’s Antique Roadshow and is widely regarded as the foremost medals an
INSIDE THE AMBULANCE | Former R.M Commando & HART Paramedic Gareth Williams
After enlisting in the Army and receiving his papers for the Royal Tank Regiment, Gareth visited the Naval Careers Office and began the process of becoming a Royal Marines Commando. Enjoying tours of Norway & Northern Ireland before leaving to play rugby in Australia, Gareth joined the Royal Marines Reserve and ventured into the Private Military Circuit. On his return to the UK, Gareth joined
CUSTODY TO COMEDY | Former Police Officer & Comedian Alfie Moore
A career following in the family footsteps looked certain for Alfie Moore, but strikes & recession struck the steel industry, and he was faced with making a change to join the police. 20 years on the beat progressing through role & rank, Alfie found stand-up comedy later on in life, and has found success. His BBC Radio 4 show 'It's A Fair Cop' is now into it's 8th season an
BATTLEFIELD TO BOARDROOM | Former QARANC David Dent MBE
Born into a family steeped in military heritage, David initially broke the mould and began his career with the NHS. He soon realised his role wasn't challenging enough, so he joined the Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps, before specialising in blast & ballistic injury. David deployed overseas numerous times, unfortunately picking up injuries that would develop over time, resul
SHOT BY PIRATES | Former Royal Marines Commandos John Bathgate & Ian Roberts
Serving almost 2 decades between them as Royal Marine Commandos, John & Ian left the forces and went looking for adventure. 'Summit To Sea' became their mission, a 5 stage journey across South America starting at Ecuador's highest mountain, and the highest point on earth, Chimborazo. Widely regarded as the source of the Amazon River, the team summited the mountain, and began the ne
CAREER ENDING INJURY | Former RAF Regiment David Atkin
First introduced to the idea of a service life with a stint in the Air Cadets, David Atkin pursued a career with the RAF Regiment. Embarking on his first tour to Afghanistan in 2010, David suffered a career ending, and life changing spinal injury. Years of surgery and rehabilitation has followed, but David has gone on to achieve success in the Invictus Games, and is now working at the Military Pre
RUNNING THE WORLD | Former RAMC (Reserve) Sally Orange MBE
A nasty injury aged 16 meant Sally Orange had to spend 9 months learning to walk again. During this time she learnt about the role of a physiotherapist, and set her goal to become one. Multiple applications & years later, Sally qualified and began her career with the NHS, before joining the TA. Eventually moving into a FTRS role, Sally deployed to Afghanistan to lead her team and develop cours
ARENA BOMBING MEDIC | Former HART Paramedic Lea Vaughan
After a brief stint in the army, Lea Vaughan pursued her interest in the ambulance service. After completing the intense training and experiencing life on the ambulance, Lea progressed into a role with the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART). This highly specialised role would lead to Lea and 2 colleagues being the only paramedics allowed into the blast-damaged Manchester Arena on the night of the
SERVING WITH M.S | RAF Sergeant Georgie Smith
Following a destiny in dance until the last moment, Georgie Smith joined the RAF in a HR role. Having joined to see the world, Georgie did just that, deploying on a Falklands tour & a role change in Afghanistan as a Detention Handler. Upon return from Afghanistan, Georgie noticed small changes with her health, which was eventually diagnosed as Multiple Sclerosis (M.S) in 2015. Having passed Me
UNDERCOVER DRUGS COP | Former Police Officer Neil Woods
By his own admission, Neil Woods lived a sheltered life in his youth, and soon became aware of this in his early stages of police training. A rare opportunity in the form of an attachment to the drugs squad, led Neil into the covert world of undercover work. Quickly becoming an expert in his field, Neil excelled in his career, before feeling the negative effects of the work on his mental health.
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RISK & SECURITY EXPERT | Former Royal Engineer Araba Cole
Driven by adventure, success and achieving her goals, Araba Cole has enjoyed an incredibly varied & action packed career. Joining the OTC at university before switching to the Royal Engineers so she could get out on the ground, Araba then left the army and joined the private security circuit. Switching again to roles with NGOs in Afghanistan, Araba has climbed the ladder to hold positions like
PLANE CRASH SURVIVOR | Former 21 SAS Jamie Hull
Adventurous from a young age, Jamie Hull travelled the world before returning to the UK to join Thames Valley Police. A career sabbatical led him to university, and it's Officer Training Corps. Having completed 2x Cambrian Patrols and achieving everything he could there, Jamie was put forward for SAS Reserve Selection, and joined 21 SAS aged 27. Jamie's passion for learning new skills led
FORMER HOSTAGE NEGOTIATOR | Former Police Officer Scott Walker
Joining the MET and securing an immediate transfer into Special Branch after his probation, Scott enjoyed a career in Anti-Terror units before returning to uniform heading up a specialist unit focused on preventing domestic homicides. A chance encounter led him into the high-stakes world of hostage negotiation and he has been involved in countless operations within the MET, and around the globe wi
GRENFELL TOWER FIREFIGHTER | Former Firefighter Ricky Nuttall
Enduring a scattered & abusive childhood at the hands of his step-father, Ricky was torn between joining the Royal Marines or the fire service, choosing the latter due to a poor fitness test performance at Lympstone. In 2017, Ricky, his watch, and 19 other crews, were called to the Grenfell Tower fire. Entering the burning high-rise multiple times that evening, Ricky went over & above his
AIRFORCE, AIRSOFT, SOFREP | Aaron 'Rad' Radl
Inspired by his fathers military service & business acumen, Aaron ‘Rad’ Radl sold grilled cheeses where others sold lemonade, and started his own skateboard shop aged just 13. Theft from his store led Rad back to college & a stint in the US Airforce, before an injury returned him to civvy street. Following his passion for the military and outdoor pursuits, Rad has co-founded multiple airso
PAYING IT FORWARD | Former R.A.M.C Amber Guymer-Hosking
Joining the Army aged just 16 after am abusive childhood, Amber Guymer-Hosking was quickly deployed to Afghanistan. Numerous mass casualty situations made for a difficult introduction into military life, and this high-pressure role took it's toll on both Amber & her partner, creating another difficult relationship in the process. Medically discharged with PTSD, Amber & her son were eve
BATTLING BRAIN CANCER | Former Royal Marine Commando Rian Ilett
Joining the Royal Marines aged 18, and enjoying 7 overseas tours in his career, Rian Ilett turned down promotions to stay in the action. Advancing into an anti-tank & heavy weapons role, Rian and his team encountered a hijacked American anti-tank which left him requiring a medical check. The check revealed a mass on his brain, and Rian was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, and given 12-15
BAPTISM OF FIRE | Lorraine Kelly CBE
Born & raised in Scotland, Lorraine Kelly pursued her passion for journalism and presenting throughout her formative years. Battling knock-backs & rejection from roles because of her accent, Lorraine eventually became a Scotland correspondent. This role would lead her to be the first news team to the site of the tragic Lockerbie Air Disaster, the deadliest terror attack in UK history...
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WHO DARES SHARES | Former 22 SAS Robin Horsfall
Walking into the Army careers office aged just 14, Robin joined the Parachute Regiment, and enjoyed his position into the regimental shooting team before joining 2 Para in Northern Ireland. Robin undertook the arduous SAS Selection course in 1979, and joined B Squadron 22 SAS in in time to be a part of the Iranian Embassy Siege in 1980. Sent on a one-way mission to Argentina during the Falklands w
SPECIAL FORCES GURKHA | Former Gurkha & 22 SAS Krishna Thapa
Born in Nepal, Krishna's parents had a dream for him to join the Gurkha Regiment before he was even born. A highly prestigious career, open to only 180 recruits from the 20K+ applicants, Krishna was successful and completed junior brecon, before attempting SAS Selection. In his 17 years in the regiment, Krishna has also led the world record attempt for servicemen summiting Mount Everest. Krish
BAND OF BROTHERS | Former Royal Marine Musician Brian Short
Following in his late father's footsteps, Brian Short pursued a career in the Royal Marines from a young age, and soon enlisted to become a musician. The impending Falkland's war would lead Brian & his unit off on the Canberra to assist in their war-footing roles of prisoner guarding and guiding. Brian came back from the Falkland's with a unique piece of history, a signed thank you
PROTECTING THE POLITICIANS | Former MET Officer John Richards
After enlisting and serving 9 years as a Grenadier Guardsman, John Richards experienced tours of Northern Ireland & The Falklands, before leaving to join the MET. After passing the Special Branch entrance exam, John found his way to the Royalty Protection unit, and enjoyed the remainder of his career travelling the world protecting ambassadors and politicians. John only lost one principle in h
ANTI POACHING EXPERT | Former 22 SAS Simon Leak
Joining the Para's after a stint in agriculture, Simon Leak went on to undertake the arduous SAS Selection process. By his own admission, he scraped through the hills phase but rallied & completed selection, joining 22 SAS' A Squadron, Boat Troop. After enjoying a busy few years with the regiment, Simon became a DS, where he would go on to be part of the training team for our very own
ONE ARMED WONDER | Former Kings Troop & Invictus Cyclist Dan Richards
From an Army family, Dan Richards had decided aged 8 that the military was his calling. Disliking school and enduring bullying for his height, Dan visited the careers office aged 15, which would lead him into the King's Troop. A steep learning curve later, Dan quickly found himself looking for some more active tasking, and he was the first member of the King's Troop to deploy to Afghanista
BEHIND THE BADGE | Former Police Interceptor Ben Pearson
Making his way through his schooling whilst battling with dyslexia, Ben first worked in a motorcycle dealership before joining the police was suggested to him by customers. Eventually going on to serve 19 years with West Yorkshire Police as a beat cop and later into the Road Traffic Unit, Ben featured on multiple seasons of Police Interceptors. Unfortunately, these years of service came at a cost
MILITARY RESILIENCE COACH | Former Paratrooper James Elliott
An abusive childhood led James Elliott into problematic schooling & teenage years, and led him to join the Army to escape his past and improve his future. Enjoying multiple roles both in and out of the Army, including Strength & Conditioning coach of Colchester rugby club, and becoming an APJI, James eventually found his calling as a resiliency coach. Attending summits for the Army, delive
CIVVY TO COMMANDO | Former Royal Marine Commando Dave Coleman
Having decided the military was his destiny at a young age, Dave Coleman persevered through his schooling whilst dealing with a stammer he developed. Dave credits his time in the Royal Marines and their training methods for helping him to improve his confidence and ability to perform under pressure. After a grenade blast on tour, Dave picked up some injuries and an Afghan flesh eating disease, and
GOING THE DISTANCE | Former LANCS Regiment Mark Harding
After completing basic training and joining the King's Own Royal Border Regiment, Mark Harding went on to experience multiple tours during his time in the Infantry. Shot in the neck by a sniper, Mark was left paralysed from the neck down and told he'd never walk again. Mark has since gone on to defy this diagnosis and has completed incredible fundraising challenges for military charities,
TRAGEDY DOWN UNDER | Former Royal Navy Regular + Reservist Annette Laurie
After experiencing childhood on both sides of the globe, Annette Laurie left school aged 16 and became an adult overnight. Joining the Royal Navy first as a reservist, and eventually as a regular, Annette served 26 years years in multiple roles across the globe, including Dubai. A keen interest in the Law took a backseat when tragedy stuck Annette's family...
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CHENNAI 6 TRUTH | Former Paratrooper Nick Dunn
Former Paratrooper Nick Dunn experienced tours of Afghanistan & Iraq before joining the Private Military Circuit, leading him to his career in anti-piracy and maritime security. A routine sailing encountered incoming weather, forcing the team into Indian waters, where the problems began. A tough judicial system led to Nick and 34 other individuals being remanded in custody without trial for mo
IRA BOMB SURVIVOR | Former RLC & H4H Ambassador Tara Robertson
Tara Robertson's army career began at the age of 18, with the Royal Logistics Corps (RLC). Enjoying her tour of Germany and unit life, she was then posted to Northern Ireland. Aged just 22, Tara suffered a serious head and brain injury at the hands of an 800lb vehicle based IED on camp. Tara endured a difficult stint in hospital and rehabilitation process resulting in her being medically disch
GLOBAL SECURITY SPECIALIST | Former RMP Rick Mounfield
Serving his full ticket with the RMP, ending as RSM, Rick Mounfield travelled the world in a CP role with the regiment protecting Ambassadors & dignitaries in the heart of Africa and beyond. A fast paced and exciting career soon passed, and when faced with a return to active duty, Rick left to pursue a career with Optimal Risk Group, an industry leader in global security. Rick has held positio
CHINOOK CREW CHICK | Former RAF Aircrew Liz McConaghy
As RAF Aircrew Liz McConaghy completed 10 tours of Afghanistan, 2 Tours of Iraq, and was the longest serving female aircrew member on the aircraft, serving 17 years. At 21, she was also the youngest Aircrew to deploy to Iraq, and completed 4 years as the only female on the crew, leading to her title 'Chinook Crew Chick'. An extensive career with the MERT team ultimately met an end when Liz
REME, RESILIENCE & RECOVERY | Former REME & H4H Ambassador Rob Shenton
Having decided the Army was his destiny aged 8, Rob Shenton began his career with a decision to make, REME or Int Corps. Having held multiple roles and ranks, Rob experienced the aftermath of battles and assisted in the rebuilding of local communities. Workplace pressure, lived experience and personal loss led Rob to suffer with depression and in this episode he details his recovery journey, which
DIVER, PARA, STUNTMAN | Former PARA Andy Torbet
A childhood in the Scottish highlands led Andy Torbet to become a natural outdoorsman, joining the local diving club aged 12 and pursuing activities like climbing & water-sports. The forces were always Andy's goal, and he enjoyed a string of high-risk roles in the British Army, including Bomb Disposal. A successful career led him into cave-diving adventures, stuntman roles, television pres
BLINDED IN BATTLE | Former REME Simon Brown
Making his way through the ranks in the REME Corps, Simon Brown experienced postings to Germany, Kosovo & Iraq. A kinetic second tour of Iraq led to him being shot in the face by a sniper, resulting in the loss of one eye, and 20% remaining vision in the other.
Simon has become an inspirational force in multiple communities and outlets, coaching the Leeds Rhinos PD Rugby Team, becoming a cou
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