Axons Unleashed

In this episode, Robbie welcomes Tim Webb, a decorated Army veteran and the very first guest in Axon’s brand-new podcast studio. Tim’s journey is one of perseverance, resilience, and reinvention. From his early days in Melbourne, inspired by military displays, to serving in elite SOCOMD units, and enduring the physical and mental toll of high-tempo deployments, Tim’s story is as inspiring as it is multi-faceted. Tim shares insights into his military career, his battles with bureaucracy, and the impost of unrelenting operational demands. But his story doesn’t end there. After transitioning from the military, Tim faced new challenges, ultimately finding his purpose through his company, SOTER. Specialising in tactical medical training and support for first responders and military personnel, SOTER ensures others are better prepared to face trauma and emergencies, building a lasting legacy of service and impact. Learn more about SOTER’s mission and offerings at soterinternational.com.  This episode dives deep into the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned, offering listeners a powerful narrative of transformation and hope. PS: Tim said something to RT when he entered Axon HQ that has never happened before… let us know what it is.

In this powerful episode, Robbie connects with Dan Vincent, an Army veteran whose path through military service has been anything but straightforward. Dan shares stories from his beginnings in aviation, moving through special forces training, and deployments that included both intense physical demands and moments of vulnerability. From his unexpected spinal injury in East Timor to working with NATO, Dan’s experiences reveal resilience and adaptability in the face of both physical and mental challenges. Dan also speaks openly about his journey with PTSD and finding purpose beyond service, eventually leading him to his impactful work with Trojan’s Trek. Through this organisation, he now helps veterans and emergency responders confront their trauma and rebuild their lives. This episode offers both an unfiltered look at military life and a reminder that healing and purpose are always within reach. For anyone seeking support, explore Trojan’s Trek.

Robbie sits down with Louis Cleaver, an Axon client and Army veteran whose journey from Tasmania to military service—and ultimately civilian life—is full of resilience and insight. Louis shares his story of growing up in Tassie, joining the Army Reserves, and later transitioning to full-time service, where he faced everything from intense training to deployments in Afghanistan.  Through candid conversations, Louis opens up about the camaraderie and challenges of military life, as well as the emotional toll of returning home and adjusting to “normal” life. Louis reveals how, after leaving the Army, he faced unexpected struggles that many veterans experience, from a lack of clear direction to financial uncertainty. Through his own strength and with the support of Open Arms (www.openarms.gov.au), Louis was able to find his footing and embrace a new chapter. His story is an inspiring reminder that it’s never too late to seek help, adjust to life changes, and build a meaningful future. For anyone facing the challenges of transition or simply looking for a story of resilience, Louis’s journey offers encouragement and hope. For veterans seeking support, visit www.openarms.gov.au.

Imagine being married to two wives, and they know about each other. This is the two-paths, once-purpose career that Doug Sheridan undertook for over twenty-five years. In this episode of Axons Unleashed, Robbie hosts a man with decades of dedicated service to Australia. Despite being in the same place at the same time at multiple points, their paths didn’t cross until now—yet their stories and experiences resonate deeply. Doug’s journey extends beyond the military, with profound experiences within the Australian Federal Police and the global security industry (whilst still serving in the ADF). Doug opens up about his challenging childhood, his career in the Infantry and Special Forces, and the personal battles he has fought since leaving the ADF. Robbie reflects on their shared experiences, especially the difficulty in transitioning from an institution that shapes one's identity, often at the cost of empathy and self-expression. Their rapport is undeniable, and their conversation flows with mutual respect and camaraderie. Now, he’s found a new mission with Homefront, an organisation dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. Homefront provides advocacy, mentoring, and critical resources to help veterans transition to civilian life and thrive in new roles. Join Robbie for this moving conversation as he and Doug reflect on their shared pasts and explore the path forward for those who serve and continue to serve in new capacities.Find Homefront at: https://homefrontaustralia.com.au/

In this episode of Axons Unleashed, Robbie dives into a powerful conversation with Jonpaul Baran (JP), a long-time Axon client and military veteran. In a charismatic and no-BS way, JP shares his unique journey with us. It starts with his childhood in Newcastle, shifting to his career as a truck driver in the Australian Army, and finally, the story shifts to his challenges in dealing with mental health, physical injuries, and eventual medical discharge. JP also opens up about the struggles he faced post-military, including battling weight gain, heavy drinking, and adapting to civilian life. But, with the support of his family, especially his wife (who is still serving in the Army), JP turned his life around. Now a stay-at-home dad of twins, he embraces his new role with pride, finding joy in raising his kids and pursuing new hobbies like learning guitar and hosting his own podcast. This episode is a raw, candid and entertaining discussion about resilience, family, and the transition from military to civilian life, offering inspiring insights into the strength it takes to rebuild and redefine success. Find JP at: Youtube: Pauly Jon - YouTube Facebook: Facebook  Instagram: Pauly Jon (@paulyjon1989) TikTok: PaulyJon (@paulyjon)

In this episode of Axons Unleashed Robbie and Luke catch up with Kyle Farram, a former Army veteran who turned his toughest challenges into triumphs. This is a belter podcast that is a MUST listen for anyone in the defence community! Kyle shares the highs and lows of his military career, including a pivotal moment when he sustained a serious injury in Afghanistan - and still went back two more times! But that was just the beginning of his story. After facing rock bottom on more than one occasion, Kyle refused to stay down - embarking on an epic two-and-a-half-month solo kayaking journey down the Murray River to rediscover himself.  His journey is not just about survival; it's about thriving against the odds. With humour, grit, and an unbreakable spirit, Kyle’s tale is an inspiring reminder that even the hardest setbacks can lead to the most incredible comebacks. Find Kyle at www.facebook.com/2530adventures/ and www.instagram.com/fullbullcomedy/

When Brodie and Mick from Medilinks first agreed to come onto Axons Unleashed, we were intrigued but didn’t know much about them. However as it turned out (as it often does) Luke and Mick actually had a great connection from their service days! After getting to know them over a quick bite before we entered the studio, we discovered the incredible journey they’ve both been on. From their days in the military to founding Medilinks, their story is one of resilience, innovation, and a drive to make a real difference. Join Robbie and Luke as they dive into Brodie and Mick’s experiences in the defence force, their transition to civilian life, and how they identified a critical need within the ADF community.  Their dedication to providing essential services in the mental health space is nothing short of inspiring. This episode is packed with valuable insights and motivational nuggets that will resonate with anyone looking to forge a new path after military service - all with some decent belly laughs from the boys. Don’t miss this fascinating (and entertaining) conversation about perseverance, service before self, and the power of taking initiative to solve important issues.Find medilinks a twww.medilinks.com.au

Get ready for a vibrant and electric episode! Luke and RT are joined on the podcast by an absolute weapon, Kelly Hopkins from Hays, the world's largest employment recruiter. While Kelly has never served herself she specialises in the recruitment and employment of veterans across all industries in Australia. This episode is packed full of incredible stories, insights and hilarity as Kelly immediately matches the boys with humour and wit. Follow Kelly’s amazing work at https://www.hays.com.au/home

Aaron Cornwall knows a thing or two about hitting rock bottom. But seeing where he has landed now will tell you he knows more about dusting yourself off and climbing back to the top! Aaron, the most recent recipient of the Veteran Employee of the Year at the Prime Minister’s National Veterans’ Employment Awards, joins RT and Luke to tell his incredible story that taught him that life isn’t always black & white, no matter how hard you try and make it that way! Follow Aaron’s work at The Australian Catholic University and its Student Veteran Support Program at www.acu.edu.au

Hayley Boswell may not have served as a former SOCOMD operative or deployed overseas, but her impact on the lives of hundreds of ADF Members and their families is profound, all through her work as a children's author! As a mother, Hayley grappled with the challenge of explaining the significance of her husband's job and his extended absences to their daughter. Out of this concern, Defence Kidz was born! Originally created for her own daughters, it soon became a valuable resource for numerous defence children nationwide. Hayley dialled into the podcast to chat with Luke and RT about where Defence Kidz came from and where it is going! Find Hayley and Defence Kidz: Books: http://www.defencekidz.com.au/T-Shirts: https://cheekylittleshop.com.au/Community: http://www.facebook.com/defencekidzNavy Families Handbook: https://www.navy.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/ANP 5111-Navy Families Handbook LOW RES.pdfDefence Member Family Support Handbook: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/897828592/