Priority Zero Podcast

Oresti Rakkas
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  • PERSONAL JOURNALS

Interviews with those that have served.

  1. 20/04/2025

    Steve 'Brute" Rodgers SASR Vietnam Veteran

    In this episode, I have the absolute pleasure of speaking with Steve “Brute” Rodgers. Steve served as a Trooper in the Australian Special Air Service Regiment and completed a 12-month deployment in Vietnam from 1970 to 1971. He shares his experience of going through SAS selection, his very first time on a plane — which he promptly parachuted out of — and an unforgettable lesson about the importance of water. Steve also offers insight into his patrols in Vietnam, including a close encounter where his team was inadvertently discovered by the Viet Cong and much more!

    1h 4m

  2. 28/02/2025

    Michael Willing APM - Former NSW Police Deputy Commissioner & CEO Fortem Australia

    In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Mick Willing APM, a highly respected leader with over three decades of service in law enforcement. Mick dedicated 31 years to the NSW Police Force, rising through the ranks to become a Deputy Commissioner. Throughout his distinguished career, he served in some of the most challenging and high-stakes areas of policing, including: Homicide Squad Drugs & Organised Crime Counter Terrorism & Special Tactics Command Mick shares his insights into some of the most high-profile cases in Australian history, including the Lindt Café Siege and various homicide investigations. His firsthand experiences provide a rare glimpse into the complexities of modern policing and crisis response. Today, Mick continues his commitment to supporting Australia’s first responders as the CEO of Fortem Australia, a vital organisation dedicated to the wellbeing of those who serve our communities in critical roles.

    1h 14m

  3. 31/01/2025

    Dylan Teicher - Former Australian Infantry Soldier & WA Fire & Rescue Officer

    In this episode, we sit down with Senior Firefighter and USAR Officer Dylan Teicher from the Western Australian Fire & Rescue Service. Dylan brings nearly 17 years of firefighting experience, having been part of the WA USAR taskforce for 12 years. A former Australian Defence Force soldier with a deep passion for service, Dylan’s journey includes a remarkable career, from his military days in East Timor to becoming a key player in disaster response across the globe. He shares his unique experiences, from surviving a wild 15-month backpacking adventure through Central America, to tackling some of the toughest rescue operations in cyclones, bushfires, and floods. Dylan reflects on the invaluable skills veterans bring to the emergency services, the importance of teamwork, and the profound job satisfaction that comes with helping communities in crisis. Tune in to hear about Dylan’s inspiring career path, his experiences in some of the most challenging environments, and what drives him to continue serving on the front lines of disaster response.

    2h 20m

  4. 07/01/2025

    Stephen 'Locky' Lockwood - Australian Infantry Soldier

    In this episode, we are joined by Stephen "Locky" Lockwood, a former infantry soldier in the Royal Australian Army who served in Afghanistan and Timor. Locky shares his experiences in the military, offering valuable insights into life during deployment and his transition from service to civilian life. He discusses how the skills and determination he developed in the army have helped him pursue higher education at university. Additionally, Locky introduces us to his latest venture, The Last Post, an inspiring journey in which he and two close friends will travel 15,000 km around Australia on postie bikes to raise awareness and funds for veteran mental health.

    1h 1m

  5. 30/11/2024

    Jarryd Goundrey - Australian Army Veteran - Fine Dining Chef - Comedian

    In this episode, we speak with Jarryd Goundrey, a former Australian Army infantry soldier who served for seven years, including a deployment to Timor Leste. After leaving the military, Jarryd transitioned to the culinary world, working as a Fine Dining Chef at one of Melbourne's top restaurants. During our conversation, Jarryd opens up about his struggles with addiction, mental health, and depression, as well as his battles with suicidal thoughts. He shares the challenges he faced and the journey towards recovery. We also explore how Jarryd discovered his passion for comedy, drawing from his diverse life experiences, including his time in the military. Today, Jarryd travels across Australia as a stand-up comedian, using humour to inspire and connect with audiences nationwide.

    1h 37m

  6. 08/11/2024

    MIchael Hatzivalsamis - Royal Australian Navy Veteran

    In this episode, we sit down with Michael, who served for 10 years in the Royal Australian Navy as a Dental Assistant. Michael offers a unique perspective on military service, sharing insights into joining the Navy in a non-combat role, life at sea, and the challenges of maintaining a fully functional dental clinic aboard a ship. He also recounts his multiple deployments across the globe, including to the Middle East, Korea, Japan, Guam, China, and beyond. Michael reflects on his experiences as a junior sailor, discussing the personal and professional challenges of military life. He also provides a candid perspective on mental health within Defence, highlighting the unique pressures faced by service members and the importance of prioritising mental wellbeing. Michael discusses the existing mental health support systems within Defence and shares his thoughts on how these services need to evolve. He advocates for a more proactive, accessible, and holistic approach to mental health, ensuring that support is not only available when needed but also integrated into the culture of Defence. Tune in for an insightful conversation on life in the Navy, the challenges of military healthcare, and the critical need for reform in the mental health system to better support those who serve.

    1h 19m

  7. 31/08/2024

    David Dotson - USMC Infantry Veteran - Arizona Police Veteran

    In this episode, I have the honour of interviewing David Dotson, who served for almost 13 years in the United States Marine Corps as an Infantry Marine and was deployed to active warzones including Afghanistan and Iraq. David candidly discusses the complexities of war, his motivations for joining the USMC, and his experiences in boot camp. He also shares a deeply personal account of "one of the worst days of his life," when he tragically lost his entire team in an IED blast during a convoy. This is an episode you won't want to miss.

    51 min

  8. 31/07/2024

    Ian Rawson - RAAF Veteran & Founder Of Australian Warfighter Coffee

    In this episode, I have the privilege of interviewing Ian Rawson, who served for 19 years with the Royal Australian Air Force. Ian dedicated almost a decade of service as an Airfield Guard before transitioning to a role as a Ciscon for another 10 years. During our conversation, Ian shares insights from his time in the RAAF, discussing experiences from boot camp, the future of warfare including the use of drones and unmanned aircraft, the enduring importance of ground troops, and the circumstances leading to his discharge from the Australian Defence Force, along with the challenges he faced during this transition. We also delve into Ian's post-military endeavours, particularly his founding of Australian Warfighter Coffee. Despite his discharge, Ian's commitment to service remains unwavering, as he donates proceeds from Warfighter Coffee to various organisations that support first responders and military veterans. www.australianwarfighters.com.au

    48 min
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About

Interviews with those that have served.

Information

  • Creator
    Oresti Rakkas
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Oresti Rakkas
  • Show Website
    Priority Zero Podcast