Podcasts about True Blue

G'day and welcome back to True Blue Conversations — where we sit down with Australians who've dedicated their lives to service, leadership, and shaping the nation we're proud to call home. Today's guest is Major Damien Batty, a retired Australian Army Officer who served with distinction for more than 26 years in the Royal Australian Army Medical Corps and broader Defence organisation. Appointed in 1996 and commissioned in 1997, he built a career defined by leadership, professionalism, operational service, and unwavering dedication to the soldiers and units under his command. Throughout his career, Major Batty served across a broad range of operational, instructional, logistical, and Special Operations appointments, including postings to 1st Field Hospital, 1st Health Support Battalion, Special Operations Headquarters, Army School of Health, Army School of Logistic Operations, and Headquarters 17th Sustainment Brigade. His service reflected a rare blend of operational experience, strategic capability, and commitment to mentoring and developing others. Major Batty deployed on multiple operations, including Operation BEL ISI, Operation ANODE, Operation SLIPPER in Afghanistan, and Operation COVID ASSIST.  His honours and awards include the Afghanistan Medal, Australian Active Service Medal, Australian Service Medal, Army Combat Badge, NATO ISAF Medal, and the Meritorious Unit Citation for service with Special Operations Task Groups. Widely respected for his integrity, loyalty, and devotion to duty, Major Batty's career stands firmly in the finest traditions of the Australian Army. It's a raw and honest conversation about service, sacrifice, and the bonds that are forged when people rely on each other in life-and-death moments and finding purpose after service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Damo Batty Editor: Kyle Watkins

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1986 fue un año clave en la música, con lanzamientos de álbumes icónicos de superestrellas como Madonna (con "True Blue"), Janet Jackson ("Control"), y Paul Simon ("Graceland"), esencial. Fue un año además crucial para el Hard Rock y el Heavy Metal con la publicación de "Master of Puppets" de Metallica, mientras que el Hip-Hop irrumpió en el mainstream con "Raising Hell" de Run-D.M.C. y la consolidación llegó con los Beastie Boys. Dos estilos musicales se abrían paso a la vanguardia y durante varios años presenciamos el dominio de ambos: el Glam metal (también conocido como Hair Metal), así como el surgimiento del rap. De la cosecha de 1986 hay discos Enanitos Verdes, Miguel Mateos, Fito Páez y Los Prisioneros, además de "Signos", el álbum de Soda Stereo que estableció su fama en Latinoamérica desde noviembre de ese año. Pero ¿Qué pasó hace 40 años en términos del rock y el metal? Acomódese.

G'day and welcome back to True Blue Conversations — where we sit down with Australians who've dedicated their lives to service, leadership, and shaping the nation we're proud to call home.  Today's guest represents the very heart of Australian values — integrity, service, and a deep commitment to community. We're honoured to be joined in the special 150th episode by Her Excellency Sam Mostyn AC, the 28th Governor-General of Australia.  With a career spanning business, sport, climate advocacy, and social justice, Sam Mostyn has long been a powerful voice for fairness, inclusion, and national progress. From boardrooms to grassroots initiatives, she's championed the idea that leadership is about lifting others and leaving things better than you found them.  Now, as the King's representative in Australia, she carries forward a proud tradition — supporting our communities, recognising extraordinary Australians, and reflecting the spirit of a modern nation.  In this conversation, we go beyond the title — into the person, the purpose, and the passion behind the role.  This is a yarn about service at the highest level… about what it means to represent a nation… and about staying grounded while carrying great responsibility.  So, settle in — for this special 150th episode.   This is True Blue Conversations with Her Excellency, Sam Mostyn AC.   

G'day and welcome back to True Blue Conversations — where we share the stories of those who've stood the line, served their country's communities, and carried the weight of responsibility most will never truly understand. In this episode, we sit down with Sue Osborn, whose career is anything but ordinary. Sue spent 27 and a half years in the Australian Army, operating in some of the most demanding environments you can imagine. She started as a Combat Medic, spending 15 years at the pointy end—where decisions are immediate, the stakes are life and death, and there's no room for hesitation. She then made a hard pivot into a completely different battlefield, spending the next 12 and a half years as an Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle Operator—a drone pilot—working in the evolving space of modern aviation warfare, where pressure doesn't disappear, it just changes form. Across her career, Sue deployed to the Solomon Islands, East Timor, and completed two tours of Afghanistan. She's seen conflict up close, and from a distance—but always with real consequences attached to every decision. What stands out about Sue isn't just the length of her service, it's the range. She's operated on the ground, under pressure, treating casualties… and later, from the air, where the responsibility shifts but never gets lighter. This is someone who understands what it means to perform when it matters—again and again, over nearly three decades. But wait until the end when you hear what she's doing now, this is a raw and honest chat about service and the toll that service has both physically and mentally. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Sue Osborn Editor: Kyle Watkins

G'day and welcome back to True Blue Conversations — where we share the stories of those who've stood the line, served their country's communities, and carried the weight of responsibility most will never truly understand. In this episode, we sit down with Sue Osborn, whose career is anything but ordinary. Sue spent 27 and a half years in the Australian Army, operating in some of the most demanding environments you can imagine. She started as a Combat Medic, spending 15 years at the pointy end—where decisions are immediate, the stakes are life and death, and there's no room for hesitation. She then made a hard pivot into a completely different battlefield, spending the next 12 and a half years as an Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle Operator—a drone pilot—working in the evolving space of modern aviation warfare, where pressure doesn't disappear, it just changes form. Across her career, Sue deployed to the Solomon Islands, East Timor, and completed two tours of Afghanistan. She's seen conflict up close, and from a distance—but always with real consequences attached to every decision. What stands out about Sue isn't just the length of her service, it's the range. She's operated on the ground, under pressure, treating casualties… and later, from the air, where the responsibility shifts but never gets lighter. This is someone who understands what it means to perform when it matters—again and again, over nearly three decades. But wait until the end when you hear what she's doing now, this is a raw and honest chat about service and the toll that service has both physically and mentally. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Sue Osborn Editor: Kyle Watkins

In this episode, Joel Durling is joined by Sergeant Vlad Filatov.  Vlad has been with VicPD since 2015 but started with the RCMP in 2013.  Vlad and his family immigrated from Romania when he was 9 years old, after spending some time in Montreal they moved West to Victoria where he graduated high school and completed a degree in Criminal Justice at the University of Victoria.  He began volunteering with VicPD's Crime Watch Program on the recommendation of now retired Sgt. Bill Laughlin as a path to gain experience before applying to policing.Before his recent promotion to Sergeant Vlad has worked in Patrol, Traffic, Integrated Tech Crimes, Special Victims Unit and Cyber Crimes.  He believes the police world has been lacking in use of technology to solve crime, although we're getting better and the potential is so vast.Vlad says he doesn't have the magic keys to solving homelessness, but he wasn't a big fan of the failed decriminalization of drugs and what that has resulted in.  His promotion will move him back to Patrol Division soon and some time working in the VicPD Jail.Enjoy the episode.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU):-       Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union-       Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/-       Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/-       Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/-       Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast 

G'day and welcome back to True Blue Conversations — where we share the stories of those who've stood the line, served their communities, and carried the weight of responsibility most will never truly understand. Today's guest represents something rare — not just service, but endurance at the highest level. Forty-eight years in policing. Nearly five decades of showing up, day in and day out, through the good, the bad, and everything in between. Joining us is Superintendent (Retired) Geoff Stewart of the Western Australian Police — a man who built a career on leadership, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the job and the people beside him. From walking the beat in the early days to making the tough calls at senior command, he's seen policing evolve, faced moments that test character, and led from the front when it mattered most. This is more than a career — it's a lifetime of service. A story of mateship, pressure, sacrifice, and what it truly means to wear the badge for nearly half a century. So, settle in — because this is True Blue Conversations, and today, you're hearing from a man who's given 48 years to the job, and has the stories to prove it. This is a raw and honest chat about how much policing has changed from the late 1970s to the modern day. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Geoff Stewart Editor: Kyle Watkins

Joel Durling hosts another really good episode of the True Blue Podcast.  In this episode, you get a chance to meet Sergeant Dyanne Parker who previously served with the Toronto Police Service (TPS).Sergeant Parker completed 13 years with TPS before applying to VicPD a little over 2 years ago.  Dyanne shares some stories of what working in Toronto was like as a police officer - lots of gangsters to chase!  She has an identical twin sister, she is a mother of 2, enjoys playing Pickleball and loves living near the ocean.VicPD's recruiting push in Ontario a few years ago has paid off nicely by finding Dyanne.  Her experiences in Toronto are a huge asset to VicPD and now that she's promoted to Sergeant, she will continue to pass along her vast experience to junior officers at VicPD.Enjoy the episode.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU):-       Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union-       Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/-       Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/-       Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/-       Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast 

Mike and Charlie interviewed LSU sports reporter Zack Nagy and Sean Fox, the Sports Director of Sports Talk 97.7. Nagy broke down LSU football's latest recruiting additions: JUCO CB Lavonte Williams and Ruston five-star TE Ahmad Hudson. Fox, who covered Hudson at Ruston, evaluated the Tigers' talented addition.

G'day and welcome back to True Blue Conversations—where we sit down with the people who've served, sacrificed, and continue to give back long after the uniform comes off. Today's guest is a man who has taken a life of service and turned it into something truly special. Barry Randall is a current serving Victoria Police Officer with over 32 years of service, having seen the job from the frontline. Barry knows exactly what it means to carry the weight that comes with it—the pressure, the trauma, and the quiet battles that follow you home. But instead of walking away from it, Barry leaned in. He's the driving force behind the program Operation Soul Surf —a grassroots movement using the power of the ocean to help veterans, first responders, and anyone doing it tough find a bit of peace again. It's about saltwater therapy, connection, and reminding people they're not alone. This is a chat about service beyond the badge, about healing, and about finding purpose in helping others stand back up. Last year, in 2025, Barry won the Rotary Emergency Services Officer of the Year award. This is a raw and honest chat about serving on the frontline and the cost of protecting the community. Barry, welcome to True Blue Conversations. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Barry Randall Editor: Kyle Watkins

Verano de 1986. Madonna lanzó ‘True Blue', su tercer álbum, y marcó un antes y un después en su carrera. Su primer disco como compositora y productora llegó en un momento clave de su vida, recién casada con el actor Sean Penn y completamente segura de sí misma. El resultado: un sonido que mezclaba dance-pop, Motown, ‘girl groups' de los 60 y toques latinos. Canciones como ‘La Isla Bonita', ‘Papa Don't Preach' o ‘True Blue', llevaron al álbum al #1 en 28 países y a vender más de 25 millones de copias, el más vendido, no solo de 1986, sino de la década. ‘True Blue' consolidó a Madonna como la reina del pop de los 80, por encima de Michael Jackson y Prince.

Service doesn't end when you hang up the uniform—it evolves. And for some, the next mission becomes even more personal. Today on True Blue Conversations, we sit down with Jared Purcell—Australian Army veteran, former 2RAR soldier, and the voice behind the Broken Fathers podcast. Jared has lived the highs and the hardships of military life, but it's what came after service that shaped his next chapter. Through Broken Fathers, he has created a space for raw, honest conversations about fatherhood, identity, struggle, and rebuilding—topics that often go unaddressed but matter more than most. In this episode, we dive into Jared's time in 2RAR, the experiences that defined his service, and the transition out of the military. We explore the challenges of finding purpose beyond the uniform, the realities of fatherhood, and why telling the hard stories can be the most important mission of all. This is a conversation about resilience, responsibility, and redefining what it means to show up—not just as a veteran, but as a man and a father. It's a raw and powerful honest chat. This is True Blue Conversations—let's get into it. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Jared Purcell Editor: Kyle Watkins

Constable Adam Osmond was a 10 year veteran of the Calgary Police Service (CPS) before moving to VicPD to continue his policing career.  Adam and Host Joel Durling run through Adam's life before policing and some fantastic details on why he wanted to work in policing.  Adam discusses his favourite hobbies to many of the great experiences he had in the CPS.  On New Year's Eve in 2020, Adam and his Recruit were the first officers on scene when Sergeant Andrew Harnett was killed on duty by a teenaged driver who fled a traffic stop.  Adam provided court testimony in the murder trail that led to a conviction.Adam grew up mainly in Alberta but had also attended high school in Victoria so coming back here wasn't overly foreign to him.  He credits VicPD's program of offering a cash incentive to helping him return to Victoria.He continues to work in the Patrol Division but has aspirations of working in the Forensics Unit at VicPD.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU):-       Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union-       Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/-       Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/-       Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/-       Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast 

Welcome back to True Blue Conversations, where we sit down with those who've lived extraordinary lives in service, leadership, and beyond. Today's guest is someone who has quite literally operated at the edge of human performance. Mandy Hickson is a former Royal Air Force fast jet pilot who flew the Tornado GR4 on combat and operational missions around the world. In an environment where precision, resilience, and split-second decision-making can mean the difference between success and failure, Mandy carved out a career in one of the most demanding roles in military aviation. Since leaving the RAF, she's become a highly sought-after keynote speaker and author, sharing powerful insights into leadership, teamwork, and performing under pressure—lessons forged at 40,000 feet and in some of the most high-stakes situations imaginable. In this episode, we dive into Mandy's journey into the RAF, what it takes to fly fast jets in combat, the realities behind the cockpit, and how those experiences translate into leadership and life beyond the military. This is a conversation about courage, discipline, and thriving in high-performance environments. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Mandy Hickson Editor: Kyle Watkins

Joel Durling is a 10 year veteran of the RCMP and recently moved to VicPD to continue his policing career.  It was Joel's idea to have experienced officers come on the podcast and share some of the details of their move over to VicPD.  He will be hosting future episodes and chatting with more experienced officers to hear their stories.Joel is originally from Nova Scotia, he was a Registered Nurse (RN) prior to joining the RCMP.  His career in the RCMP includes small town work, big town faster pace experience and Provincial Traffic enforcement.Joel credits seeing a promotional video created by the VicPD Recruiting Unit where members showed off being out on the ocean and enjoying life as a draw to join VicPD.  He speaks highly of the Wellness Unit and VicPD's efforts to support every member's mental health.Sound editing done by Todd Mason.More about the Victoria City Police Union (VCPU):-       Tweet us at https://twitter.com/VicPD_Union-       Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vicpd_union/-       Find us on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/truebluevictoria/-       Visit our website for information at https://truebluevic.ca/-       Email us at media@vcpu.ca for any media inquiries or requests to be on the True Blue Podcast 

On this week's podcast, I speak with Lana Boland, a dedicated Canadian police officer who has served her community with courage and compassion. From navigating high-stress investigations to mentoring young officers, Lana has seen it all. But beyond the badge, she's a voice for mental health in policing, shining a light on the human side of law enforcement. Join us as we explore her journey, the challenges she's faced, and the hope she's bringing to a profession that demands so much. This is a raw and insightful conversation about resilience, mental health, and the unseen weight carried by those who serve. Lana shares the lessons she's learned, the challenges she's faced, and the tools she now uses to help others heal, grow, and take back control of their lives. Whether you're in emergency services, supporting someone who is, or just looking to better understand trauma and recovery—this is an episode you won't want to miss.   Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Lana Boland Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with former Western Australia WA Police Detective Meg Jarvis, who has spent years on the front line of some of the most confronting and complex cases imaginable. Meg's career in policing exposed her to the realities most people never see—trauma, crisis, and the human side of crime. But what sets her apart is what came next. Drawing on her lived experience, she's transitioned into a trauma coach, helping others navigate the psychological toll that comes with high-pressure roles and life- altering events. This is a raw and insightful conversation about resilience, mental health, and the unseen weight carried by those who serve. Meg shares the lessons she's learned, the challenges she's faced, and the tools she now uses to help others heal, grow, and take back control of their lives. Whether you're in emergency services, supporting someone who is, or just looking to better understand trauma and recovery—this is an episode you won't want to miss.   Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Meg Jarvis Editor: Kyle Watkins

Welcome back to part 2 of our chat with Michal Dawson, BM. A man who has lived a life defined by service—both in uniform and beyond. Michael is an Australian Army veteran serving as an EW operator and in the Military police as a dog handler. He is a recipient of the Bravery Medal—an honour awarded to those who display extraordinary courage in the face of real danger. From his time in the Army to the moment that would ultimately see him recognised for bravery, Michael's story is one of instinct, selflessness, and stepping forward when others might hesitate. In this episode, we unpack that defining moment—what happened, what drove him to act, and the aftermath of carrying that experience. But more than that, we explore the man behind the medal: the lessons from military life, the transition beyond service, and what courage really looks like when no one's watching. This is a raw and grounded conversation about service, sacrifice, and the quiet professionals who walk among us, as well as the true cost of service and the struggles that every veteran and first responder face in transitioning back to civilian life after service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Michael "Smokey" Dawson BM Editor: Kyle Watkins

True Blue The Cruise (Session 3) by Level Vibes

True Blue The Cruise (Session 1) by Level Vibes

True Blue The Cruise (Session 2) by Level Vibes

Today's guest is a man who has lived a life defined by service—both in uniform and beyond. Michael "Smokey" Dawson BM is an Australian Army veteran serving as an EW operator and in the Military police as a dog handler. He is a recipient of the Bravery Medal—an honour awarded to those who display extraordinary courage in the face of real danger. From his time in the Army to the moment that would ultimately see him recognised for bravery, Michael's story is one of instinct, selflessness, and stepping forward when others might hesitate. In this episode, we unpack that defining moment—what happened, what drove him to act, and the aftermath of carrying that experience. But more than that, we explore the man behind the medal: the lessons from military life, the transition beyond service, and what courage really looks like when no one's watching. This is a raw and grounded conversation about service, sacrifice, and the quiet professionals who walk among us, as well as the true cost of service and the struggles that every veteran and first responder face in transitioning back to civilian life after service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Michael "Smokey" Dawson BM Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with Captain Jonathan Finch, whose 27year journey in the Australian Defence Force reflects the evolution of a peacetime organisation into one operating at an intense operational tempo around the world. Finchy began his career in 1999, enlisting in the Army Reserve as a cook—just as the ADF was transitioning into an era marked by frequent deployments and complex missions abroad. Over the years, Finchy's adaptability, professionalism, and appetite for challenge saw him rise through the Australian Army Catering Corps to the rank of Sergeant before commissioning as a logistics officer within the Royal Australian Corps of Transport. His career has carried him across the IndoPacific and throughout Australia on a wide variety of operations, humanitarian tasks, and training commitments. From remote community support to international deployments, his service has spanned nearly every corner of the Army's contemporary mission set. Today, CAPT Finch continues to serve with enthusiasm, contributing his extensive experience to capability development, junior leader mentoring, and operational planning. Beyond Defence, he remains engaged in community organisations, bringing the same energy and dedication to local initiatives as he does to his military career.   Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Jonathan Finch Editor: Kyle Watkins

Stone & Wood Presents... A Blitzed Bonus Mini Ep with the X4 World Champ and Australian GOAT Mark Richards. MR shares his thoughts on Reginato's famous win and the resurgence of true blue, you beaut, rip their fucken heads off Aussie competitive Mongrel! Must listen! Stone & Wood and Billabong Presents... ATS LIVE! TORQUAY // MARGARET RIVER // COOLANGATTA // RAGLAN Tickets On Sale Tomorrow!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's podcast, I speak with former Australian Army Combat Medic Jody Tieche, a man whose story is built on service, resilience, and the experiences that come from operating in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. Jody served as a combat medic with the 4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, a role that puts you right in the thick of it. When soldiers are wounded and every second matters, the medic is the one running toward the danger — carrying the responsibility of keeping his mates alive. Jody served in Timor in 2006 and served two tours of Afghanistan, Rotation IV with Task Force 66 in 2007 and Rotation VII in 2008. In this episode, we're going to talk about Jody's journey into the military, what it's really like serving as a combat medic, the realities of battlefield medicine, and how those experiences shape the person you become long after the uniform comes off. After Jody left the military and went into the mining industry, before moving into Oil and Gas as a Paramedic. In 2021, Jody applied and was successful in securing employment with the South Australian Ambulance Service through the Internship program. Shift work and juggling on-road workload, plus young toddlers, became too much for Jody and his wife. Jody put his family first and concluded his internship. Jody currently works for BHP as a Paramedic/Emergency Services Officer. It's a raw and honest conversation about service, sacrifice, and the bonds that are forged when people rely on each other in life-and-death moments. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Jody Tieche Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with former Australian Army Reservist and NSW Police Officer Matt Nicholson. Matt served in the NSW Police for 18 years. After leaving school, Matt joined the Army reserves and joined the Royal Australian Artillery Corps. In 2007, Matt was accepted into the NSW Police and headed to the academy in 2008. Matt spent his career as a general duties officer and later moved into the Raptor task force targeting bikie gangs and other organised crime groups. Matt was diagnosed with PTSD and was medically retired from the NSW Police after 18 years' service, Matt suffered what every veteran and first responders face when they transition out of service and how to find purpose as a civilian, this is a raw and honest chat about life as a general duties police officer and what they face on a day to day basis protecting the community. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Matt Nicholson Editor: Kyle Watkins

Episode 177.2: 1845 Visit, Upcoming Napa Trip, TV Boobs, Mexico Business Travel, Booger Eating, Fineline Band, and Balcones True Blue Cask Strength

On this week's podcast, I speak with Arron Ferguson, a former 23-year NSW Police Detective and 24-year Australian Army 1st Commando Regiment Special Forces Operator. Arron joined the army first as a commando, and two years later, he was offered a spot on a deployment to Timor. However, the NSW Police also offered a full-time policing position at the academy. Arron lived a double life as both a Detective and army Special Forces reserve soldier. Arron was involved in hundreds of domestic police investigations and then deployments to Timor and highly kinetic operations in Afghanistan as part of the special operations task force. He was forced into early retirement due to a genetic muscle disease, which took a toll on his mental health and, not to mention, his physical capabilities. In this podcast, Arron talks about the loss of mates while he was deployed in Afghanistan, how policing has changed from when he joined and the true mental cost of serving as a first responder and in the military. Arron also talks about the mental health aspect of loss of purpose and finding purpose again after being diagnosed with this genetic muscle disease, and what every veteran and first responder struggles with transition back to civilian life after living a high kinetic life that veterans and first responders live. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Arron Ferguson Editor: Kyle Watkins

On this week's podcast, I speak with former NSW General Duties Police Officer Ben O'Brien. Ben was born and raised in Sydney. Ben comes from a strong ADF family background. Ben's grandfather was a World War II veteran. Ben had a Great uncle who landed on Gallipoli and an uncle who served in Vietnam. Ben's path to the Police wasn't the normal way. He was expelled from school; Ben went off the rails and into a bad lifestyle. He had been going down the wrong path, he cleaned up his act, turned his life around and joined the NSW Police in 2011. He graduated in 2012. He was stationed at Harbourside LAC, then over the next 14 years, serving right across Sydney. Ben served for 14 years across multiple units, working in plain clothes, attending everything from DV, MVA's, suicides, critical incidents and a nursing home fire. Ben and two of his colleagues saved a few oldies from a nursing home on fire. Ben got smoke inhalation and was hospitalised. All over the news, radio and Ben and his colleagues were interviewed by Ben Fordham on 2GB.   In 2025, after years of attending traumatic jobs, it took its toll on Ben until one night he got to breaking point. Ben had made peace that this shift was going to be his last. He went to Balmoral beach Mosman, sat in the car, pulled out his gun, and had it sitting on his lap. The darkest time in his life. He was so close to doing it until his best mate came into my head, who had previously killed himself. The pain and loss from his mistake changed Ben's life and mind that night. Ben knew he needed help, Ben was diagnosed with PTSD and was medically retired from the NSW Police after 14 years' service, Ben suffered what every veteran and first responders face when they transition out of service and how to find purpose as a civilian, this is a raw and honest chat about life as a general duties police officer and what they face on a day to day basis protecting the community. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Ben O'Brien Editor: Kyle Watkins

2.18.26 Hour 2, Tobi Altizer goes over a mock draft from Daniel Jeremiah where he has the Commanders taking a top prospect. Tobi Altizer discusses the Commanders possibly drafting Arvell Reese with their pick at number 7 and how he would fit on the Commanders' new defensive scheme. Tobi Altizer asks callers for their opinion on if they like the fit for Arvell Reese in Washington.

In the summer of 1985, Sean Penn's marriage to preeminent material girl Madonna was an epochal moment for ‘80s-era Hollywood. The bad boy from Bad Boys and the boy-toy pop superstar blissfully brought together the worlds of movies and music on a Malibu bluff overlooking the Pacific. But their subsequent attempt to make a movie together was anything but blissful. A wild film shoot in China would lead to even wilder things, like the time Sean dangled a photographer upside-down from a ninth-story balcony. Or the time he escaped a prison in Macau and had to have a pardon from the government negotiated by a former member of the Beatles. Or the time he spent in an American prison, where he found himself passing notes with a fellow inmate down the hall…one who happened to be one of the most notorious serial killers in history. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the summer of 1985, Sean Penn's marriage to preeminent material girl Madonna was an epochal moment for ‘80s-era Hollywood. The bad boy from Bad Boys and the boy-toy pop superstar blissfully brought together the worlds of movies and music on a Malibu bluff overlooking the Pacific. But their subsequent attempt to make a movie together was anything but blissful. A wild film shoot in China would lead to even wilder things, like the time Sean dangled a photographer upside-down from a ninth-story balcony. Or the time he escaped a prison in Macau and had to have a pardon from the government negotiated by a former member of the Beatles. Or the time he spent in an American prison, where he found himself passing notes with a fellow inmate down the hall…one who happened to be one of the most notorious serial killers in history. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's podcast, I speak with Mark 'Trigger' Tregellas. Mark is a former Victorian Police officer & Australian Army 1 st Commando Regiment Veteran & Author. From a teenage athlete, world adventurer, and martial artist, Mark's thirst for adventure led him to serve in the Special Forces Reserves and with Victoria Police. Stationed in remote towns over 26 years, Trigger spent most of his policing career working closely with three other officers. Amongst his many honours is the Clarke Silver Medal, the Royal Humane Society of Australasia's highest award. He is one of only 3 Victoria Police officers to receive the award in its 150-year history. After retirement, Trigger and his family endured the devastating Black Summer fires, followed by COVID-19 lockdowns that almost broke their hometown apart. Using his expertise, Trigger set up a recovery website that funnelled nearly one million dollars for the victims of the fires and earned him a Resilient Australia Award. He continues to live in remote coastal Victoria today. Mark is a born storyteller, and wrote his autobiography, Back Up Is 3 Hours Away, which details his incredible career & shares amusing anecdotes as well as incidents that changed his life forever. This is a raw account of what remote policing is all about. Mark, like all veterans and first responders, struggled with the transition from service. He has found purpose again, now helping other veterans and first responders transition and find purpose after service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Mark 'Trigger' Tregellas Editor: Kyle Watkins

2.12.26, Kevin Sheehan discusses the options for the Commanders in the upcoming NFL Draft and the need to get an unbelievable talent this offseason.

On this week's podcast, I speak with former Queensland QPS Police veteran Brendan Haley BM. Joining the QUEENSLAND Police Service aged 18 years, Brendan spent 33 years serving the Queensland community in a variety of locations and roles. Starting his career in the shadow of Queensland's Fitzgerald Commission into police corruption, this young rural kid was thrust into intense urban policing, and the violence and challenges of early 90s policing. His journey would see him move around the state through a variety of roles from general policing, dog squad, country and regional policing, crime squad, operational police leadership before ending his policing career in counter terrorism. His professional journey, in some of Queensland's most notorious areas, left a permanent mark on his being, resulting in diagnosis of PTSD, broken marriages and questions on the fairness of life, particularly after the death of his youngest son. Despite these challenges, tough times drew out his resilience, strength of character and courage to repeatedly place his life on the line for the community he chose to service, with formal recognition of his fortitude culminating in him being recognised by the police service and the Australian community through the awarding of official meritorious certificates and medals, culminating in award of the Australian Bravery Medal. Although Brendan has left policing, he continues to serve his nation, moving into a defence role and taking these experiences and fortitude into a new domain. This is his story it is raw and honest and is a behind the scenes look at what police face on a day-to-day basis to protect our communities, and the cost of that service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Brendan Haley BM Editor: Kyle Watkins

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

Welcome to Mysteries to Die For and this Toe Tag.I am TG Wolff and I'm here with Jack, my piano player and producer. This is normally a podcast where we combine storytelling with original music to put you at the heart of mystery. Today is a bonus episode we call a Toe Tag. It is the first chapter from a fresh release in the mystery, crime, and thriller genre.Today's featured release is Who Killed One the Gun by Gigi LittleWho Killed One the Gun is a cozy noir. Third-rate PI One the Gun is one minute from dead. Just as he realizes his time is up, he wakes up back in his head. Two the True Blue is by his side, but the question remains who made One die. Now as the day runs on repeat, One must find his killer or die in defeat.Bottom line: Who Killed One the Gun is for you if you like your noir more witty than grittyWho Killed One the Gun was released from FOREST AVENUE PRESS and is promoted by Partners In Crime Tours and is available from AMAZON LINK and other book retailers.About Gigi LittleGigi Little is a freelance book designer and a longtime bookseller. She's the editor of the popular anthology City of Weird and the art director of the picture book A Tree of My Own. Her writing can be found in journals and anthologies including Portland Noir, Spent, Dispatches from Anarres, and The Magic We Miss. She lives in Portland, Oregon, with her husband, fine artist Stephen O'Donnell.www.GigiLittle.com

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

Ken and Anthony talk about Grant Udinski's potential fit in Cleveland and whether or not he's a football guy, or an analytics guy.

(00:00-16:00) Doug's feeling bullish. Or is he? Was the buzz for Garth Brooks or Doug Vaughn? Do you like when a man looks at you hungry? Darling in those new blue headphones. LIx's silence is deafening. NASCAR's new playoff format. Did we make Nikki Glaser's career? Jinx, coke, rails. Sam Elliott's horniness.(16:08-43:01) Doug's big moment at the Blues Hall of Fame ceremony last night. Al Arbour. SLU just missing out on the Top 25. Audio of Brett Hull getting emotional on stage last night talking about Kelly Chase. Audio of Chase receiving the True Blue award. Martin's not sure Chase's number will ever be put in the rafters. Still trying to get audio of Doug's speech. Raising a banner for Tim at the Enterprise Center. Edmonds and Isringhausen vs. LAWA.(43:11-49:11) Both in build and in talent. Daniel in Arizona drops right as we go to him on the phone lines. We missed out on a good one. Is South City PAWG City?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

Rachel keeps things light as we start off the show with a discussion of Botulism toxin just in time for the holidays. Watch out for those bulging cans. Victoria is up next and she talks about how rare blue is in nature. She shares the very few examples of true blue pigments found in nature. Finally, Kirk talks about birds decorating their nests with predator scat to keep away predators. Join us weekly for more strange nature. Our supporters on Patreon get every episode ad-free!  Support us: patreon.com/strangebynature Email us: contact@strangebynaturepodcast.com Visit us at: strangebynaturepodcast.com  where you can sign up for our episode emails.

In this episode of The Speed of Culture podcast, Matt Britton sits down with Kenny Mitchell, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Levi Strauss & Co., to unpack how Levi's balances 170 years of history with the urgency of modern culture. Kenny shares how Levi's marketing strategy is evolving through cultural partnerships like the Beyoncé REIMAGINE campaign, the Shaboozey Men's Icons campaign, and the Nike Levi's collaboration. This conversation explores how an iconic global brand stays relevant through culture-led brand growth, data, AI-powered personalization, and disciplined leadership.Follow Suzy on Twitter: @AskSuzyBizFollow Kenny Mitchell on LinkedInSubscribe to The Speed of Culture on your favorite podcast platform.And if you have a question or suggestions for the show, send us an email at suzy@suzy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's short episode introduces you a little bit to the amazing man who received D&C 138 - Joseph F. Smith.  Faithful, tough, and true blue, through and through! 

Wil talks with Donny Bradley, founder and CEO of Lola Beans, a drive-through “fun beverage” coffee brand based in Chattanooga that's now franchising. Donny traces his hospitality instincts to moving often as an Air Force kid and appreciating people who made him feel welcome, plus big family gatherings rooted in New Orleans/Biloxi culture. A six-month stint in Soldotna, Alaska during his medical-device sales career sparked the business idea: a small coffee shack where barista Jenna built genuine relationships, not transactional service. Donny returned home, scraped a house on a C-minus property, opened the first Lola Beans in September 2020, then a second location in 2022 with two drive-through lanes and fast, face-to-face iPad ordering. He candidly describes early operational lessons (41% food cost, too many SKUs) and how mentors helped streamline supply chain and economics. Inspired by Nick Saban and Truett Cathy, Donny emphasizes culture, coaching, and hiring for hospitality as the real scalability engine. Lola Beans officially began franchising in February, landed a major Texas development deal (starting with Dallas-Fort Worth), and aims to stay an operator-led, people-first brand that creates “good energy” for guests and meaningful growth for team members. 10 takeaways Hospitality is universal. Donny's earliest lessons came from classmates welcoming him at new schools, proof that hospitality is about making people feel safe and seen, not a specific industry. The spark moment matters. True Blue in Soldotna, AK showed how one authentic barista-customer connection can inspire an entire business model. Drive-through doesn't have to be robotic. Lola Beans uses dual lanes and iPad ordering face-to-face to keep speed high and humanity higher. Speed is a tool, not the goal. Their “14 cars in line, out in 7 minutes” target exists to buy time for relationshipswith regulars. Early operators learn by doing (and fixing). Donny opened in 2020 thinking he'd drop a shack on a lot; zoning, codes, and real build costs rewired the plan quickly. Food cost discipline can be learned fast with the right help. Cutting SKUs from 196 to 126 and consolidating vendors dropped costs from 41% to ~28%. Two-product customers extend dayparts. Coffee ritual + afternoon energy/teas/“Lola Colas” keeps sales strong beyond morning rush. Culture scales what founders can't. Donny frames culture → behavior → results; the goal is guest experience even when he's not there. Franchise growth should be “best first, biggest later.” Truett Cathy's philosophy guides selective franchising and saying no to misaligned partners. People are the real competitive moat. Like Chick-fil-A and Publix, Lola Beans wants employees so well-trained and cared for that customers stop shopping around.

What's your most loved and least favorite song on Madonna's Immaculate Collection?! For the last of our four-episode series of Greatest Hits episodes, Dan chose the best-selling solo artist collection of all-time. Good times ranking songs we're all familiar with but not huge fans of.  Unsurprisingly, these four straight white males still had lots of fun things to say and recall about the ever-present queen. This was recently removed for third-party copyright for reasons we can't figure out. Still fun without the Madonna tunes or you can listen with the Music on Youtube. Listen at WeWillRankYouPod.com, Apple, Spotify and your local dancefloor.  Follow us and weigh in with your favorites on Facebook, Instagram and Threads @wewillrankyoupod .FILE UNDER/SPOILERS:Blonde, bops, Borderline, brunette, Burning Up, Causing a Commotion, Cherish, cone bra, Crazy for You, dance music, Deee-Lite, Joe DiMaggio, Express Yourself, Holiday, Holiday Rap, Into the Groove, Justify My Love, Lenny Kravitz, La Isla Bonita, lace top, Like a Prayer, Like a Virgin, Live to Tell, Lucky Star, Material Girl, MC Miker & DJ Sven, Marilyn Monroe, Open Your Heart, Papa Don't Preach, Sean Penn, Shep Pettibone, pop, Iggy Pop, Possum Dixon, Prince, queen, Rescue Me, Leon Robinson, Salsoul Orchestra, sexy whispering, talking, too many hits, True Blue, Truth or Dare, Vision Quest, Vogue, Wayne's World,  Weird Al Yankovic, 1990.        US: http://www.WeWillRankYouPod.com wewillrankyoupod@gmail.com http://www.facebook.com/WeWillRankYouPod http://www.instagram.com/WeWillRankYouPod http://www.Threads.com/WeWillRankYouPod http://www.YourOlderBrother.com (Sam's music page) http://www.YerDoinGreat.com (Adam's music page) https://open.spotify.com/user/dancecarbuzz (Dan's playlists)

Ally Walker is best known for her roles in the TV series The Profiler, Sons of Anarchy, Santa Barbara, True Blue, Moon Over Miami, Longmire, The Protector, Tell Me You Love Me, and many more. She has also appeared in various movies including Singles, While You Were Sleeping, Kazaam, and Universal Soldier. She recently completed her first novel, The Light Runner which can be found on Amazon as well as bookstores everywhere.

Trap Talk Reptile Network Presents Ep.688Trap Talk With Patrick Holmes Dave Dee & John Irby LiveJOIN TRAP TALK FAM HERE: https://bit.ly/311x4gxFOLLOW & SUPPORT THE GUEST:https://www.instagram.com/vibrant_vir...https://www.instagram.com/arboreal_ob...https://www.instagram.com/midatlantic...SUPPORT USARK: https://usark.org/MORPH MARKET STORE: https://www.instagram.com/bobsballs2/https://www.morphmarket.com/stores/ex...SUBSCRIBE TO THE TRAP TALK NETWORK: https://bit.ly/39kZBkZSUBSCRIBE TO TRAP TALK CLIPS:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA40...SUBSCRIBE TO THE TRAP VLOGS:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKxL...SUPPORT USARK: