The Returning Warrior Podcast: Recent Episodes
Adam Gornall
This podcast is about the human story, and there is no greater story than the hero's journey. Each of us face our own particular challenges, trials and tests, and it takes the courage of a warrior to overcome them. Adam, your host, will be interviewing some of the most inspirational people, who recount their hardest 'calls to adventure', how they completed their hero's journey, and what inner gold they found as a reward.
Adam is a Resilience coach, relationship coach, business mentor & trauma informed therapist.
Find out how Adam can support you here: bit.ly/ReturningWarriorFlow
In this heartfelt and powerful episode of the Returning Warrior Podcast, host Adam Gornall is joined by Steve Philip, a passionate suicide prevention advocate whose personal tragedy has spurred a mission to change the narrative around suicide. Following the loss of his son Jordan in 2019, Steve wound up his successful consultancy business to establish The Jordan Legacy CIC, an organization dedicated to supporting those experiencing feelings of entrapment and hopelessness.
Steve shares his journey from personal grief to public advocacy during this candid conversation. He talks about the 'Zero Suicide Society' concept, a vision for a society that strives to prevent all preventable suicides. The episode delves into Steve's role as co-founder of the Baton of Hope UK tour, the largest suicide awareness initiative in the UK, and why he chose to step back to focus on his well-being and the work of The Jordan Legacy.
Also in focus is The Jordan Legacy's ground-breaking action-research project conducted in 2023 to determine whether we can significantly reduce suicide numbers in the UK. The research results, published on what would have been Jordan's birthday, form a poignant backdrop to our discussion.
This episode is a moving exploration of loss, resilience, and hope. It offers an insightful look at Steve's tireless commitment to a cause that affects thousands of individuals and families across the UK and the world.
Join us for a conversation that is both intimate and inspiring as Steve shares his transformative journey and his enduring hope for a future where suicide is prevented, not mourned.
Follow the story here:
www.thejordanlegacy.com
Recently, I hosted a Linkedin Live Q&A.
The topic, Veterans and Mental Health.
A recent poll conducted on Linkedin showed me that nearly 50% of all the voters feared talking about their mental health. Not something that I was overly surprised with. Join me on this episode to learn more about the offerings from the Returning Warrior Method.
www.trw-method.co.uk
In this episode of The Returning Warrior Podcast Series, join Adam as he dives deep into the critical topic of "The Boy Crisis." Adam discusses the unique challenges and complexities boys face in today's society, touching on societal expectations, lack of initiation, and mental health.
Throughout the episode, Adam emphasises the importance of understanding and addressing these issues to empower our sons to grow into healthy, well-rounded individuals. Listen in as he shares valuable insights from personal experience.
www.trw-method.co.uk
Free e-book to guide you with your recovery
To be a guest on the RWpod
Welcome,
In this episode, our host discusses the importance of investing in oneself and one's relationships. He shares his personal experience of attending numerous seminars and courses with his wife and how it allowed them to break free from societal expectations and live a life they truly enjoy. The conversation also delves into the concept of growth and expansion and how being stuck in a circular flight pattern can lead to pain and stagnation. Additionally, the episode explores the transformative power of helping others and establishing a new normal for oneself. Tune in for an insightful and thought-provoking discussion on personal development and growth.Instagram
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Join us on The Returning Warrior Podcast Episode 20, for an inspiring conversation with renowned personal coach and holistic psychologist Ben Rosenberg. Discover the transformative power of the human soul as Ben and Adam draw upon their expertise and life experiences. Gain profound insights and practical tools to unlock your hidden potential and tap into your soul's wisdom. Prepare for an incredible journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Don't miss this opportunity to embark on a transformative path with Ben Rosenberg as your guide. Tune in now to The Returning Warrior Podcast Episode 20!
You can find Ben through the following links:
Website
Welcome to Bonus Episode #12.4 of The Returning Warrior Podcast, the captivating episode that dares to ask 'Why men only?' Unpacking the complexities and controversies surrounding men-exclusive services, we delve into my decision to specifically cater to the unique struggles and transformations of men across all walks of life on this Group Therapy iteration.
With inspiration sparked from a thought-provoking discussion with a veteran friend this episode extends beyond the realm of Therapy to explore the social narratives and ethical considerations that come into play when offering services to a specific demographic.
No matter your views or experiences, I welcome your participation in this significant discourse as we continue to shed light on the unique trials and triumphs faced by men, veterans or not.
So tune in, as The Returning Warrior Podcast proudly presents a bold narrative challenging societal norms and fostering much-needed conversation about men's needs, healing, and transformation in today's world.
Enrolling now.
https://bit.ly/AppointmentBookingLink
Discovering the Spiritual Home of Save A Warrior UK.
This episode holds a special place in our hearts, as it not only offers a wealth of information about the environment and temperate rainforests on our isles, but it also marks the beginning of a beautiful partnership that has led to the establishment of Save A Warrior UK's spiritual home.
Our first conversation showed that Merlin and I shared a strong connection and a common vision. Merlin and his wife graciously invited Tom and I to visit and stay overnight at their home, where they welcomed us with open arms, made us feel like part of the family and entertained us with great conversation long into the night.
Join us in this inspiring episode as we discuss the wonders of the natural world surrounding us and how it plays a significant role in the journey of Save A Warrior UK.
You can find Merlin here: Website - Linkedin
Save A Warrior UK - Solving the Suicide Pandemic in the UK
This week's episode see's me in on-air with Sally Orange. Sally Orange is an endurance runner, adventurer & mental health campaigner.
She is the only person on the planet to complete a marathon on every continent in fancy dress (as different pieces of fruit!), which gives you a flavour of her colourful personality. She holds multiple Guinness world records and world firsts, has run over 70 marathons, completed 8 full Ironman triathlons and has completed 22 years exemplary service in the Royal Army Medical Corps as a Physiotherapy Officer. This included an operational tour of duty in Afghanistan.
It brings me great joy to present Sally today with her smile, personality and account of her Heroes Journey.
You can find here here: website - Linkedin
Thanks for tuning in. Should you or anyone else you know be struggling with the pressures of ill mental health and need to seek deep diving therapy, please get in touch on my email hello@adamgornall.com
In this week's episode, we speak to the man behind the Forged Father. Travis is a family man with a passion for Sports specific training. He has helped over 900 men to achieve their fitness goals. Travis writes, "I’ll never forget the day I looked at myself in the mirror and saw the WORST VERSION OF ME. I lost my way and started settling on the typical comforts in life…Drinking, smoking pot, and partying all night while backstepping on my training." I am super excited to present this episode to you today.
You can find Travis here: Linkedin - Instagram - Website
It brings me great pleasure to present Jon Hilton on this week's episode of the Returning Warrior.
In this episode, you will hear Jon's account of his hero's journey and the hurdles he has had to overcome in his journey to date. Jon's words, "I was a cocky little kid from a council estate", meant he had a fantastic rapport with his instructors on Basic Training. His story about the expensive pencil is hilarious. Unfortunately, Jon suffered an injury during Training which stopped his 15-year career. Completing several Operational Tours during his service, he recalls his time in the military with fond memories of the camaraderie.
Does Jon's story inspire you?
You can find him here on LinkedIn.
Join me on the 14th episode of the Returning Warrior Podcast. CEO & Co-founder @ Loopin and a Veteran Royal Marine. Spending time with him on the show and listening to him tell his account of the Hero's Journey was a pleasure and I know his story will inspire and resonate with many of you. The work he is doing now is groundbreaking and has the potential to positively affect many thousands of lives across the country.
You can find Ben on Linkedin and on the Loopin Website.
Join us on today's episode as we recount Ben's experience on the Returning Warrior Program. We will understand what motivated him to seek help, how he found out about the Program and how he has since completed the One to One coaching program. At one point in the episode, Ben speaks about his experience with his friends since completing the Program and how he sees certain character traits within his friends, taught whilst in Adam's care.
Therapy is designed to bring wounded and bloodied warriors from the battlefield and help them to transition to calm and centred beings. The lover is the archetype with which we identify this transformation.
The Program is designed for Men & Women. Although primarily for individuals, I have also successfully coached couples and teams.
If you feel inspired to seek out more information from Ben's episode today, please complete the following form @ https://bit.ly/DoneSuffering
Liz joined me on the sofa to talk about her career in the RAF, her transition to civilian life and coming to terms with life in covid lockdown. With her Mental Health in decline, Liz succumbed to the "Drift" and decided to commit suicide. Thankfully, she was saved and has now made it her purpose to talk Honestly, Openly and Willingly to help others in the same position.
Catch up with Liz here:
Linkedin and Instagram
Be sure to leave a comment and share the episode with your friends and family.
Finally, I wish to thank you for your time and for following the progress of the Returning Warrior. Your interactions, comments and engagements are very much appreciated.
If you or someone you know needs my help, then please complete the following form and I will be in touch with the solution: https://bit.ly/DoneSuffering
Veterans.
How often did you perform 5's and 20's on the Tour? Civilians are kinking their heads and wondering what on earth 5's & 20's mean. It's an Immediate Action drill or "dynamic risk assessment" to ensure you don't immediately step on a device when you get out of the wagon right through to getting shot by someone in the distance.
Why do we stop performing 5's & 20's when we leave the Military? Is it possible to repurpose this drill? Can we apply this drill to look after our Mental Health? This episode dives into the life-saving IA drill that we as soldiers performed 200 times a day on OP's
Leave a comment with your thoughts or get in touch with Adam & Tom
hit the FOLLOW button to get notifications of future episodes when they upload.
The Returning Warrior is a 12-week Hypnotherapy program designed to transition Veterans from surviving and moving them through to thriving.
The time is now to start your journey towards healing. Honest Open and Willing men are invited to engage with this transformative program.
Join Adam Gornall and Tom Burgess as they discuss the Returning Warrior Program, Who it is designed to help, What it does for this person and How they can get involved in the program.
Like, Comment and Engage with this video and share it with your Brothers and Sisters. It will save a life.
PTSD is not a life sentence.
We are here for you.
Take the first step here.
Today's bonus episode is with Adam and Tom. Recorded on Shrove Tuesday and released on Ash Wednesday.
We have had many a conversation that starts off as a quick chat and 2 hours later we have gone deep on a topic and are in full swing! The hours of lost conversations were starting to rack up! So we now hit the record button and delve deep into the topic of the day.
Not always the best production and the sound may be a little off as well, but sometimes the best bits and pieces with the most value come at you when you least expect it.
Sit back, relax and feel free to get involved in the conversation on our social media channels.
@returningwarriors
@digital_presence_uk
On this week's episode, I went "on-air" with Carl Simpson. Carl is a veteran of the Royal Air Force Regiment where he served 16 years. Originally from Rotherham, Carl joined the military, as many of us did, after seeing the recruitment posters and hearing the call to serve. After completing numerous tours of duty over sea's in Iraq and Afghanistan, Carl has Stepped away from military life and has now started his own business as a personal trainer. It was a fantastic opportunity to sit and talk with Carl and I hope you enjoy the episode.
You can find Carl here: Instagram or linkedin.com
Jake is the founder of Save A Warrior which provides an innovative and effective "war detox" program for Warriors suffering from Post Traumatic Stress.
Save A Warrior® (SAW) is the original, Warrior-led, timeless journey for returning veterans, active duty military, and first responders who feel desperately alone.
Since 2012, the program has transformed the lives of nearly 2,000 US heroes who have struggled with the effects of Complex Post-Traumatic Stress (C-PTS) that often leads to suicide and suicidal ideation. This life-saving program is free for Active Duty Military, Veterans and First Responders, funded solely by the generosity of its supporters.
Jake is a phenomenal human being and it is my pleasure to be friends with him and have the opportunity to bring him to you today via my podcast.
Kate Burgess is a midwife and has worked in the NHS for the last 10 years. For the last two years, Kate has been working as a Mental Health Midwife. She has supported women and their families during their childbearing journeys. Kate has just taken the leap from the NHS to the world of academia and now works as a lecturer at Bournemouth University. Working within mental health services has not been her only encounter with poor mental health or mental health services. She has also supported her family after the sudden death of her father. This led to a family member attempting suicide during the COVID pandemic. Managing her own mental health during and after this event was very hard at times. Kate is married and has been navigating the crazy world of infertility and IVF. Kate says, "I can honestly say that I have never felt stronger than I do now". She puts this strength down to the support and love she has from her family and friends around her, and now has the strength to tell her story here today on the Returning Warrior Podcast.
You can find Kate here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-burgess-280a091a3/ or @midwife_by_the_sea
Kate Burgess is a midwife and has worked in the NHS for the last 10 years. For the last two years, Kate has been working as a Mental Health Midwife. She has supported women and their families during their childbearing journeys. Kate has just taken the leap from the NHS to the world of academia and now works as a lecturer at Bournemouth University. Working within mental health services has not been her only encounter with poor mental health or mental health services. She has also supported her family after the sudden death of her father. This led to a family member attempting suicide during the COVID pandemic. Managing her own mental health during and after this event was very hard at times. Kate is married and has been navigating the crazy world of infertility and IVF. Kate says, "I can honestly say that I have never felt stronger than I do now". She puts this strength down to the support and love she has from her family and friends around her, and now has the strength to tell her story here today on the Returning Warrior Podcast.
Have you ever noticed how many men never had their fathers around to teach them how to be a man? Most of these men were not taught how to share their emotions and instead they have tried to achieve their way to being enough by constantly chasing titles.
Ben helps these men discover their gifts, learn how to lead, express their emotions and build the type of relationships that allow them to build organisations, that make a big difference in the world.
Strap in, settle down and please enjoy the next instalment of the returning warrior podcast.
If you have enjoyed this podcast please get in touch. I would love to hear from you and discuss the topics within this episode with you.
You can find Ben here: Linkedin or Instagram
Sheila is a Los Angels based Artist and prominent figure in her community. You may have seen her work online or Instagram. Sheila sketches daily and elevates this medium as a form of emotional expression, self-reflection and healing. But Sheila wasn't always an artist, she once had a successful career as a digital innovator and business coach. Now with renewed passion, drive and purpose, Sheila is positively affecting people's lives through art, and I am immensely fortunate to have her company on todays podcast.
www.sheiladarcey.com
www.instagram.com/sketchpoetic
www.facebook.com/sketchpoetic
Samantha's story is best told in her own words - "Between the ages of 30-32, I was given 3 ‘terminal’ diagnosis following a series of events. The first one had an 8 week deadline to raise the funds, avoid death and travel 5,000miles for the surgeries.
I was internally decapitating. Surgeons refused to operate in the U.K. but neurosurgeons in the USA could help - at an immense cost. It was a price I couldn't afford.
Facing a monumental task and armed only with a small group of friends; The ‘Save Samantha’ campaign was created.
I had 8 weeks to fund & travel for the surgeries. Despite never having campaigned or crowdfunded before, the 'Save Samantha' campaign was incredibly successful and raised approx >£500,000 for my lifesaving Neurosurgeries.
One surgery became four, each one requiring crowdfunding & a need to relearn how to walk, talk and function again.
Each surgery left me with less and less movement of my head and spine.
This was just the beginning of a series of unbelievable, emotional and life shattering curveballs that my family & I overcame."
Sir Ranulph Fiennes OBE says of Alex: "RARELY DOES ONE HEAR ABOUT SUCH AN INSPIRATIONAL AND HEROIC BRITON AS ALEX FLYNN. THE CHALLENGES HE HAS SUCCESSFULLY UNDERTAKEN WOULD BE CONSIDERED SERIOUSLY HARD BY ANYONE’S STANDARDS AND ARE, IN MY VIEW, INDEPENDENTLY WORTHY OF RECOGNITION".
Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 36, has had a profound and life changing effect on Alex. Not only is he a father, he is also an Adventurer, Speaker, Writer and so much more.
In this episode we hear the tremendous capacity to withstand pain that Alex has, describing every morning like being encased in concrete. His motto is Keep Moving! And he has inspired many to do the same, including me. His next planned adventure is probably the greatest of them all, to put Parkinson's on top of the world by climbing Everest, and help raise awareness of the decease with the aim to accelerate the finding of a cure.
Find out more at www.alexflynn.co.uk, follow him on on Instagram @alexflynn
There are those among us that seem to accomplish way more in a life than the rest of us. A variety of experiences across multiple disciplines. Well Ram is this person in my life. Let me give you a snapshot of what I mean; born in London to a Jamaican biological father and an American white mother. Grew up in Athens, Greece, attended boarding school in Switzerland, he speaks 5 languages, was part of the Swiss Junior Racing Team Cadre and snowboarding freestyle competition sponsorships. All this before he left school. He returned to the UK to dedicate the next 12 years to the Royal Marine Commandos, when at the rank of Lance Corporal he organised The March For Honour, the biggest fund raising event a single person ever has (Until Sir Tomas More), raising over £1.2M for the Royal British Legion. He was involved in several "sanctioned opposition efforts against Daesh", finally leaving the Marines due to severe PTSD after several tours of duty, Ram set out to reinvent himself as a senior member of a Texan petrochemical company operating out of Kuwait. Moving on to becoming a senior executive member of a Kuwaiti Critical National Infrastructure engineering company. He received his MBA after four years, in Leadership & Corporate Environmental Sustainability, eventually responsible 8000 employees and a portfolio worth over £30Bn.
Ram returned to the UK to take up a role as CEO of a green energy company. Eventually leaving that role to return to his hearts mission of being of service. He now works for the civil service in Defra and willingly sacrificing the salary someone of his experience can attain in the private sector, in order to come inline with what he was here to do, serve others.
He has his eye on the big office, and I am sure he will one day become a member of parliament where he hopes to support the vision of a more inclusive, diverse and prosperous country for all.
Former Royal Marine Emile Ghessen, joined the Royal Marines and serve his country for 12 years. After several tours of Iraq and Afghanistan, it was time to move on. But his visits to war zones did not stop there. Inspired to discover how Mohammed Emwazi, also known as Jihadi John, who went to the same school as his and lived 400 metres from him, could join the ISIS Islamic terrorist group, Emile swapped his gun for a camera and decided to document that story, and the story of volunteer fighters leaving the comfort of their normal lives in Europe, to fight ISIS. What he discovered turned into the documentary Robin Hood Complex, The Fight Against Islamic State. He has gone on to make two more documentaries covering the war in Ukraine and recently returned from Armenia. He brings the human story to life, with raw and powerful accounts of war and the capacity of the human spirit.
A former Royal Marine Commando. He became the first triple amputee to survive the Afghanistan war. He is an Invictus games Champion, author, motivational speaker, mentor and coach. He was awarded his MBE for services to the Royal Marines charity and veterans community.
He has a new book on the way, with the story of his life coming out on the big screen in the near future. He is also a blue belt in Jiu Jitsu.
Karen Darke is a powerhouse of an adventurer, athlete and inspiration. After becoming paralysed from the chest down following a climbing accident at the age of 21, Karen went on to achieve incredible feats of endurance, performance and bravery; Climbing Monte Blanc, Matterhorn and El Capitan. Skiing across Greenland. Hand cycled, skied and swam the length of Japan. Has won Paralympic silver in 2012 and gold in 2016. In 2017 was awarded the MBE for services to sport. She has written three books and founded Quest 79, a global campaign to help others find their inner gold through challenges and adventure culminating with the Pole Of Possibility in 2022 where she plans to reach lat/long 79 in Antartica, the final continent left for her to traverse.
Through Adams life of extreme adventure, trauma and war, he was able to amalgamate his experiences and philosophies into a powerful experience he calls the Returning Warrior, a series of programs, courses, book and now a Podcast. All aimed at supporting the modern man and woman through some of life's biggest challenges, enabling them to undertake their own hero's journey. In this first episode Adam, recounts the harrowing tale of his brush with death, life in the Marines, and the power of framework known as the hero's journey, and how it may be the answer to solving life's biggest challenges.