True Blue Conversations Podcast

Adam Blum
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Inspired by the people and events that have shaped Australian history and character, with his authentically Australian down to earth approach, Adam Blum explores and shares their stories. Learn how in the past and more recently, service, sacrifice and grit have and continue to play a central role in Australia's True Blue History.

  1. True Blue Conversations - Mark Tregellas - Victorian Police / Commando Regiment Author Veteran

    2D AGO

    True Blue Conversations - Mark Tregellas - Victorian Police / Commando Regiment Author Veteran

    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

    2h 42m
  2. True Blue Conversations - Brendan Haley BM - Queensland Police Service (QPS) Police Veteran

    FEB 9

    True Blue Conversations - Brendan Haley BM - Queensland Police Service (QPS) Police Veteran

    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

    3h 54m
  3. True Blue Conversations - Talissa Papamau 'TJ' - Advanced Medical Technician Combat Medic

    FEB 3

    True Blue Conversations - Talissa Papamau 'TJ' - Advanced Medical Technician Combat Medic

    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

    2h 33m
  4. True Blue Conversations - Kurt Ludke 1 RAR / Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment Veteran

    JAN 27

    True Blue Conversations - Kurt Ludke 1 RAR / Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment Veteran

    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

    3h 18m
  5. True Blue Conversations - Robert Kilsby - Australian SASR Vietnam Combat Veteran - Author Keynote Speaker

    JAN 19

    True Blue Conversations - Robert Kilsby - Australian SASR Vietnam Combat Veteran - Author Keynote Speaker

    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

    2h 46m
  6. True Blue Conversations - Paul Burns DSC and Bar Colonel Ret. Australian Special Forces Special Air Service Regiment Commanding Officer

    JAN 13

    True Blue Conversations - Paul Burns DSC and Bar Colonel Ret. Australian Special Forces Special Air Service Regiment Commanding Officer

    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

    3h 29m
  7. True Blue Conversations - Bonnie Hancock - World Record holder for Circumnavigation by Paddling around Australia

    12/15/2025

    True Blue Conversations - Bonnie Hancock - World Record holder for Circumnavigation by Paddling around Australia

    On this weeks podcast, I speak with Ironwoman and world record holder, Bonnie Hancock. Bonnie spent 254 days, travelled 12,700 kilometres, battled sea sickness, sharks, crocodiles, and the ocean. Bonnie broke numerous records on her fastest ever circumnavigation by paddle around Australia, but that wasn't the achievement she is most proud of. Testing the limits of her mental and physical toughness, she learned what it means to overcome adversity and how important teamwork and perspective truly are. What looks distressing from the rocky shore or storm-tossed waves can be inspiring when you look to the heavens. Bonnie is the author of "The Girl Who Touched the Stars", which is a love story, a travelogue, and an exhilarating exploration of human ambition coming face-to-face with the beauty and power of nature. But most of all, it's a lesson in overcoming self- doubt, trusting others and finding your true self. Bonnie demonstrates vividly and honestly the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of reaching for the stars. Bonnie talks about growing up as a young surf lifesaver and competing in the Ironwoman series with her older sister Courtney, and what it takes to compete at the elite level. This is a raw and honest, powerful chat about pushing your body to the limit and discovering who you. Bonnie set a target to raise $100,000 for the charity Gotcha4Life. Bonnie achieved that goal as she paddled into the finish line on the Gold Coast after paddling for 254 days and 12,700 Kilometres. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Bonnie Hancock Editor: Kyle Watkins

    1h 51m
  8. True Blue Conversations - Army Marine Specialist Special Operations Veteran - Chris Ghalayini

    12/02/2025

    True Blue Conversations - Army Marine Specialist Special Operations Veteran - Chris Ghalayini

    On this week's podcast, I speak with former Marine Specialist Chris Ghalayini. Chris joined the Australian Army in transport before transferring to a specialist role as a Marine Specialist. He served across East Timor, Iraq, and within a Special Operations Unit, living a career built on discipline, purpose, and service. Chris thought he would wear the uniform for life, but everything changed the day a back injury brought his journey to a sudden halt. It wasn't just the end of his military career; it was the start of a new battle he never saw coming. In this podcast, Chris shares his story in full. The highs of service. The deployments that grounded Chris for life. The pride of serving as a Marine Specialist in SOCOMD, one of the most adverse environments in the Defence Force. Chris also talks about the back injury that ended his career due to the pain he was suffering; it sent Chris into a dark place. After 6 doctors said no to operating on his back, the 7 th doctor was willing to operate. This gave Chris a new outlook on life. Unfortunately, after this operation, Chris suffered a stroke in early 2024 during his recovery, he was determined to live for his family. Chris discusses the medical separation and the transition that no soldier is ever truly prepared for. This isn't just a story about hardship. It's about rebuilding, redefining purpose. Finding strength outside the uniform, learning that sometimes the greatest comeback starts the moment life knocks you down. This is Chris's journey before, during, and after Defence. Chris is now an entrepreneur who is the managing director of Poseidon Seas Group, which specialises in the luxury yacht space. Chris now gives veterans and first Responders a way to transition after service and give them purpose again by giving them opportunities to work. Chris is still serving, just in a different uniform and a different way. This is raw, honest and a story of redemption. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Chris Ghalayini Editor: Kyle Watkins

    1h 39m
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About

Inspired by the people and events that have shaped Australian history and character, with his authentically Australian down to earth approach, Adam Blum explores and shares their stories. Learn how in the past and more recently, service, sacrifice and grit have and continue to play a central role in Australia's True Blue History.

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