True Blue Conversations Podcast

Adam Blum

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. 4d ago

    True Blue Conversations - Darwin Fermo - Australian Signalman / Australian Federal Police AFP Veteran

    Welcome back to True Blue Conversations. Today, I'm joined by someone whose journey through the Australian Defence Force spans service, deployments, communications, international operations, and an enduring passion for defence, intelligence and geopolitics. Darwin Fermo enlisted in January 2000 as a Reservist, marching into 10th Light Horse Squadron as a Driver/Crewman before transferring to the Australian Regular Army in February 2001 as an Operator Specialist Communications Signalman. He was posted to the School of Signals, where he was completing his training when the world changed forever with the September 11 terrorist attacks. From there, Darwin was posted to Brisbane's 1st Joint Support Unit, serving with Radio Troop. His career would soon take him well beyond Australia, including a deployment to the Solomon Islands in 2003, participation in the first Talisman Sabre exercise aboard USS Boxer in 2005, and deployment to Iraq with AMTG2 later that year. He would go on to serve in Darwin with HQNORCOM, supporting Operation Resolute, while simultaneously undertaking university studies in Security, Terrorism and Counterterrorism. Darwin ultimately made the difficult decision to leave the Army in 2008, choosing to pursue his university studies full-time. But the ADF never really left him. He was offered the opportunity to re-enlist in 2018, which he declined while preparing for his wedding. Then, in 2019, he sat an Officer Selection Board for the Maritime Warfare Officer role. Despite being assessed as highly suitable, an unexpected medical classification issue prevented him from progressing. Today, Darwin continues to maintain a deep interest in the ADF, international relations, security and geopolitics. But his service didn't end when he left the Army. Darwin went on to serve as an Australian Federal Police officer, bringing together his military communications background, operational experience and passion for security and national service. In this conversation, we're going to explore Darwin's journey — from a young Reservist joining the 10th Light Horse, through the School of Signals and the post-9/11 military, to the Solomon Islands, Iraq and Talisman Sabre, and ultimately his transition from the ADF into policing and transitioning out of the AFP. We talk about the decisions that shaped his career, the opportunities he pursued, the ones that didn't work out, and what it means to continue serving in a different uniform and finding purpose again after the uniform comes off. Host: Adam Blum Guest: Darwin Fermo Editor: Kyle Watkins

  2. Aug 17

    True Blue Conversations - Mike Durant - 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment - Black Hawk Down

    On today's episode of True-Blue Conversations, I am joined by Mike Durant, a former 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, aka Night Stalkers. Mike's deployment to Somalia was portrayed in the Hollywood movie Blackhawk down. Mike was a member of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Night Stalkers) as a Chief Warrant Officer 3. He retired from the U.S. Army as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 Blackhawk helicopter Master Aviator in the 160th SOAR after participating in combat operations Prime Chance, Just Cause, and Desert Storm, and also Gothic Serpent, in which he was briefly held prisoner for 11 days in 1993 after a raid in Somalia. During Operation Gothic Serpent, Mike was the pilot of Super Six Four, the second MH-60L Black Hawk helicopter to crash during the Battle of Mogadishu on October 3, 1993. The helicopter was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade in the tail, which led to its crash about a mile southwest of the operation's target. This is a raw and honest chat, an episode not to be missed! Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Mike Durant Editor: Kyle Watkins

    True Blue Conversations - Mike Durant - 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment - Black Hawk Down

  3. Aug 10

    True Blue Conversations - Dr Dan Cooper - Former 3RAR and Special Air Service Regiment SASR Veteran

    On todays episode of True-Blue Conversations, I am joined by former Australian Special Forces SASR veteran Dr Dan Cooper. After underperforming at school, Dan joined the Army and posted to 3 RAR, deploying to Timor in 1999. A short time later, Dan attempted SASR selection in 2001 and completed the selection course. After Reo and 9-11, Dan (qualifying as a water operator) deployed straight away on the 2nd rotation to Afghanistan in 2002. Dan served in all 3 Sabre SQNs and OSS during his career. Between 2002 and 2016, Dan conducted dozens of operations in Afghanistan and other parts of the world. In 2008, Dan started what would grow into the SASR Human Performance program and the foundation program for SOCOMD and the Army to develop their Human Performance and gained an undergrad degree in Sports Science a double masters in Strength and Conditioning and conducted research into cognitive and physiological performance. After qualifying for a research scholarship, Dan has gone on to further studies and has completed a PhD on the Human Factors to improve transfer of training and performance in high-threat combat environments. On leaving SASR, Dan spent 2 years working with the QLD Reds high-performance program. Dan now uses his experience and research to develop a Critical response performance and innovation initiative to provide free education, training, and development to front-line performers/organisations. Between 2010 and 2022 Dan completed a range of activities including a 250km multi day ultra in the Aussie desert, several 100km ultra's, coveted at the Cross-fit regionals and masters games, the Yukon Arctic Ultra 750km foot race, a 24hr obstacle course race, the Iditarod trail invitational 550km and 1600km foot race and currently looking into an attempt at a solo South Polo expedition. This is a raw, powerful and deeply honest conversation about sacrifice, resilience and the realities of life as an elite Australian Special Forces operator. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Dr Dan Cooper Editor: Kyle Watkins

    True Blue Conversations - Dr Dan Cooper - Former 3RAR and Special Air Service Regiment SASR Veteran

  4. Aug 3

    True Blue Conversations - Adam Smith - Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment & Victoria Police Special Operations Group Veteran

    On today episode of True-Blue Conversations, I am joined by Adam Smith, a veteran of the 2nd Commando Regiment and the Victoria Police Special Operations Group. Adam joined the Australian Army in 2005 and was posted to the 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (2RAR). During his time with 2RAR, he deployed twice to East Timor before successfully attempting and completing selection for the 2nd Commando Regiment in 2008. After completing the demanding Reinforcement Cycle, he earned the coveted Sherwood Green beret. Throughout his Special Forces career, Adam deployed on multiple Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) rotations to Afghanistan and Iraq and served on Tactical Assault Group EAST ( TAG- EAST). He shares his firsthand experiences of modern warfare, including being on the ground in Afghanistan in 2011 when his mentor and friend, Brett Wood, MG DSM, was killed in action. Adam opens up about the raw emotion of losing a close mate in combat and reflects on the deaths of fellow Special Forces operators Todd Langley and Sapper Rowan Robinson, and the lasting impact those losses have had on him and those who served alongside them. Adam also speaks candidly about the tragic training accident in 2014 during an extreme Alpine climate exercise that claimed the life of one of his fellow commandos. He discusses the invisible wounds of service, his battle with PTSD, and the true cost that war and military service can have on those who answer the call. Following his military career, Adam laterally transferred to Victoria Police and, after graduating from the academy, went directly into the elite Special Operations Group. Even after discharging from full-time service, he continued serving Australia as a member of the 1st Commando Regiment, Australia Army Reserve Special Forces capability, based in Melbourne. This is a raw, powerful and deeply honest conversation about sacrifice, resilience, grief, mateship, and the realities of life as an elite Australian Special Forces & Victoria Police Special Operations Group Operator. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Adam Smith Editor: Kyle Watkins

    True Blue Conversations - Adam Smith - Australian Special Forces 2nd Commando Regiment & Victoria Police Special Operations Group Veteran

  5. Jul 28

    True Blue Conversations - Henry Young - WW2 Spitfire Pilot

    Welcome back to True Blue Conversations, where we preserve the stories of the men and women who have shaped Australias history through service, sacrifice, and resilience. Todays guest is nothing short of extraordinary. Henry Young is one of the last living links to the Greatest Generation. At an incredible 102 years of age, Henry served as a Royal Air Force Spitfire pilot during the Second World War, taking to the skies at a time when courage was measured not in words, but in actions. He belonged to a generation of young men who answered the call without hesitation, knowing every mission could be their last. But Henrys remarkable life didnt end when the war was over. Returning home, he forged an outstanding career as a professional tennis player, proving that the determination and discipline that carried him through combat also drove him to excel in sport. His life has spanned more than a century of extraordinary change, from the darkest days of World War II to the modern world we know today. In this conversation, well explore Henrys childhood, his decision to become a fighter pilot, the realities of flying the legendary Spitfire in wartime, the mateship and sacrifices of those who never returned, and how he rebuilt his life after the war through professional tennis. Well also reflect on the lessons hes learned across more than 100 years of life—lessons on resilience, purpose, gratitude, and what it truly means to serve something greater than yourself. It is an absolute privilege and honour to welcome one of the last surviving World War II Spitfire pilots. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Henry Young Editor: Kyle Watkins

    True Blue Conversations - Henry Young - WW2 Spitfire Pilot

  6. Jul 21

    True Blue Conversations - Fred Campbell O.A.M - Royal Australian Navy Veteran

    Today on True Blue Conversations, I sit down with an extraordinary Royal Australian Navy veteran whose career spans more than 35 years of service, multiple operational deployments, and a lifetime of leadership—Fred Campbell OAM. Fred joined the Royal Australian Navy on 8 January 1982 through the Naval Apprentice Scheme as an Air Technical Aircraft fitter. From the flight lines at HMAS Albatross to serving aboard some of Australia's most iconic warships, Fred built an exceptional career supporting the Fleet Air Arm and mentoring generations of sailors. His operational service took him to some of the defining conflicts of the modern era, including Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm in Kuwait, Afghanistan following the September 11 attacks, the Solomon Islands, and Iraq in 2004 aboard HMAS Stuart. During that deployment, Fred was involved in one of the most significant naval incidents of the Iraq War—the USS Firebolt incident—a dramatic and little-known event that tested leadership, courage, and decision-making under extreme pressure. In this conversation, Fred takes us behind the headlines to share what really happened, what he witnessed, and the lessons that have stayed with him ever since. Throughout his distinguished career, Fred served as Command Warrant Officer at HMAS Cerberus, HMAS Creswell, HMAS Melbourne, and HMAS Parramatta, becoming one of the Navy's most respected senior leaders.  His outstanding service was recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2013 Queen's Birthday Honours, along with numerous Australian and international operational medals and commendations. But service didn't end when Fred hung up the uniform in 2017. Today, he continues to fight for those who have served as the President of the Keith Payne VC AM Veterans Benefit Group, working alongside Australia's only living Victoria Cross recipient from the Vietnam War to support veterans and their families. His commitment to the veteran community, advocacy, and ensuring no veteran is left behind has become his new mission. Beyond service, Fred is a proud husband to a fellow Navy veteran, a father, grandfather, rugby tragic, Harley rider, knife maker, guitarist, barbecue enthusiast, and someone who believes in giving back to the mateship that shaped his life. This is a conversation about leadership, combat, resilience, transition, and continuing to serve long after the uniform comes off. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Fred Campbell OAM Editor: Kyle Watkins

    True Blue Conversations - Fred Campbell O.A.M - Royal Australian Navy Veteran

  7. Jul 13

    True Blue Conversations - Lucas Atkins - Australian Federal Police Close Protection Officer

    G'day, and welcome back to True Blue Conversations. Today's guest is Lucas Atkins, a former Australian Federal Police Close Protection Officer whose 12-year career placed him at the very centre of some of Australia's most significant security operations. Lucas began his policing career protecting high-profile dignitaries, including the United States and Israeli Ambassadors, as well as international VIPs such as the Dalai Lama. His professionalism and dedication soon earned him a position within one of the AFP's most elite close protection teams, where he became responsible for the full-time security of Australian Prime Ministers Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd. Lucas was on the ground during the dramatic events of Australia Day 2012, when protests marking the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy escalated into a major security incident. As the threat rapidly intensified, Lucas played a key role in the emergency evacuation of the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition from a Canberra venue surrounded by hostile protesters. After leaving the Australian Federal Police, Lucas continued working in close personal protection operations across the globe, protecting clients in some of the world's most demanding environments. Today, he has taken that wealth of experience and founded his own business. But this conversation goes far beyond protective operations and high-profile missions. It's a raw and honest discussion about identity, purpose, and the challenges that so many veterans and first responders face when the uniform comes off. We talk about transition, rebuilding life after service, and finding a new mission beyond the job. This is an episode filled with stories from behind the security cordon, lessons forged under pressure, and a powerful reminder that the toughest battles often begin after the career ends. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the True-Blue Conversations of former Australian Federal Police Close Protection Officer, Lucas Atkins. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Lucas Atkins Editor: Kyle Watkins

    True Blue Conversations - Lucas Atkins - Australian Federal Police Close Protection Officer

  8. Jul 6

    True Blue Conversations - Ryan Wilson - Former Australian Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) Veteran

    G'day, and welcome back to True Blue Conversations. Today's guest is a man who has lived a life of service, resilience, and excellence. Ryan Wilson began his military career in the Australian Army Reserve before taking on one of the toughest challenges in the world—Special Air Service Regiment selection. After successfully earning his place in the SASR, Ryan went on to serve on multiple operational deployments around the globe as a specialist dog handler, operating alongside some of Australia's most elite soldiers. But this conversation goes far beyond medals and missions. Ryan opens up about the reality of life inside Special Forces—the relentless standards, the pressure of operating at the highest level, the unbreakable bonds forged between teammates, and the devastating pain of losing mates along the way. It's a raw, honest, and deeply personal insight into a world very few Australians ever get to see.  Today, Ryan has taken that same commitment and discipline into business as the owner of Whipper Snap Distillery, proving that the values forged in military service can continue to shape success long after the uniform comes off. This is an episode about sacrifice, mateship, resilience, purpose, and what it truly means to serve. Ladies and gentlemen, this is Ryan Wilson. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Ryan Wilson Editor: Kyle Watkins

    True Blue Conversations - Ryan Wilson - Former Australian Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) Veteran
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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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