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Declassified
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Welcome, I'm Michael Coates, a former firefighter and also a former Soldier.

This podcast documents amazing stories from members of the military community.

Our guests include Military Cross winners, athletes, partners of those who have served, high ranking commanders and 'normal' veterans who have gained extraordinary experiences.

By declassifying stigmas and perceptions we wish to open up issues around mental fitness and wellbeing, talk in depth around subjects such as post traumatic growth and delve into human development on a micro level.

Our longterm vision is to provide hope, guidance, support and help for individuals who are suffering from both mental and physical illness or injury.

This is part of the Declassified network and this is Declassified

British Podcast Awards:

Best Interview Podcast 2020 - Gold

Best Wellbeing Podcast 2020 - Bronze

Best Wellbeing Podcast 2022 - Bronze

(Shortlisted in 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023)

www.declassified.network

Declassified

Michael Coates
Documentary
99 episodes / 569K listens
Remembrance Special - The Military Community
Remembrance is a personal time and moment for many within the Military Community. Here we speak about the reality of the 11th of November and what it really means to remember. From the battle fields of the first world war to living life right now. This is Declassified  Featuring: Michael Coates - Military Veteran and Host of the Declassified podcast Ben Taylor - Petty officer and Poet Dr ...
1hr 7m • Nov 12, 2023
1hr 7m
Road to Recovery Special (LIVE) - Harry Parker, Gemma Morgan and Simon Brown
In this special episode we record LIVE from the National Army Museum in London.  We talk to a panel of 3 guests about their lives, service, injury and recovery.  A Road to Recovery Special with Harry Parker, Gemma Morgan and Simon Brown https://www.nam.ac.uk More Information - Simon:  https://blesma.org/news-media/blesma-news/2020/on-the-set-of-scars/ (https://blesma.org/news-media/blesma-...
1hr 12m • Mar 15, 2023
1hr 12m
Episode 55 - Roger Cruickshank DFC
Fighter pilot, Distinguished Flying Cross and the power of repetition. We talk about his operations in Syria and Iraq, what it takes to perform at your best and why preparing for the worst allowed him a shot at a moving target. We also speak about psychological fitness, mental I’ll-health and his mothers suicide. From skiing at the Olympics to the speed of sound. Episode 55 - Roger Crucksha...
1hr 48m • Oct 19, 2022
1hr 48m
Stretcher-Bearer Special with Dr Emily Mayhew
From 'The Carry to The Casevac' we discuss the stretcher-bearers of the First World War.  We talk about their role, kit, training and firing-squads. We also speak about their heroics, constant workload and how they were almost lost to history.  A stretcher-bearer special with Dr Emily Mayhew Also, For information about the upcoming charity event please visit https://www.justgiving.com/casev...
1hr 2m • Oct 04, 2022
1hr 2m
Episode 54 - James Stott
In this episode we speak with a former Royal Marine who has a talent for magic and a story of war.   We talk about his time in Iraq, seeking more in his life and his time in Afghanistan.  Grief, violence, reflection and adventure. Episide 53 - James Stott - this is declassified https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/run-4-ben-gregz?utm_term=ygWabxNp2
1hr 24m • Sep 07, 2022
1hr 24m
Episode 53 - John Fendley
Childhood, suicide, depression and helping other.  In this episode we speak with one of the countries best know sports presenters.   We talk about his Dads National service, understanding mental ill-health and speaking.  Episode 53 - John Fendley - This is Declassified 
1hr 32m • Jul 26, 2022
1hr 32m
British Podcast Awards 2022, Bronze Winners - Best Wellbeing Podcast
4 clips taken from episodes released last year showing how the podcast speaks about wellbeing.  In this audio montage we talk with Keith Abraham, Steve Japp and Alex Seymour about trauma, PTSD, depression, psychedelics and healing
15m • Jun 22, 2022
15m
Thames 26 Special - With Ash Alexander-Cooper, Nathan Jones and Michael Coates
Endurance, cold water, suffering and swimming,  Listen to how Nathan and Michael swam 26.2 miles in 10 degree water.
1hr 48m • Jun 01, 2022
1hr 48m
Episode 52 - Nathan Dunne
Heroin addiction, childhood abuse, neglect and care.  In this episode we speak with a man whose childhood is beyond words. We talk about his early life in Liverpool, the chaos of addiction, bullying, safety and violence.   We also talk about failure, friendship, fighting and forgiveness.   A truly remarkable conversation that is full of pain and emotion.   Episode 52 - Nathan Dunne - This i...
1hr 21m • May 11, 2022
1hr 21m
Episode 51 - Tom Beaver
From building bridges to performance equipment.   In this episode we speak to the founder of BeaverFit. We speak about early life, getting stronger at school and working hard in life.   We also speak about the tragic death of his cousin, endurance sport and using his skills to make a real impact.  Episode 51 - Tom Beaver - This is Declassified  https://www.beaverfiteu.com
1hr • Mar 11, 2022
1hr
Gambling Special - Paul Merson
Gambling to the point of suicide, getting stabbed for choosing alcohol and the bravery he shows today.  This incredible, brutal and totally open conversation with one of the countries most loved football pundits. We talk about his anxiety, self-loathing, honesty and illness. We also speak about wanting the best for others, especially his family. A Gambling Special, Paul Merson - This is Decl...
1hr 16m • Nov 05, 2021
1hr 16m
Episode 50 - Heledd Kendrick
From a near death experience as a child to severe domestic violence and the business she runs now.  This episode has been two years in the making and delves into the life of a person with absolute drive and determination for what she believes.  We speak about her loving family, the death of her father and why she will never give up.   Courageous, inspirational, humble and fun. Episode 50 - ...
1hr 16m • Oct 13, 2021
1hr 16m
Episode 49 - Mau Gris
From Mexico, to Mosul via Afghan and Syria, in this episode we speak with a former Cavalry officer who went from war-fighter to conflict documentarian.  Listen to his childhood dodging scorpions and being educated by monks to his multiple tours of Afghanistan, and life through a 'dangerous' lens as he witnessed and recorded the battle against ISIS.  For further details see:  http://www.threa...
1hr 14m • Sep 14, 2021
1hr 14m
Best Bits from Some Previous Interviews
Featuring: Steven Japp Henry Glanz Mau Gris Heledd Kendrick Paul Merton
14m • Jul 22, 2021
14m
 Episode 48 - Steven Japp
From physical injury to a brutal suicide attempt.   In this episode we speak with a former soldier who plummeted into poor mental health following a career in the military and private security.   We speak about his tours, his happy childhood, being sectioned and how he was incorrectly labelled with PTSD just because he had served.   We also discuss how he took his health into his own hands, ...
1hr 24m • Jul 20, 2021
1hr 24m
Episode 47 - Sivan Hurmuz
Born in the ancient city of Mosul, Iraq in this episode we speak with a former Iraqi soldier who escaped the Saddam regime in 1997.   We speak about going AWOL, capture, torture, the death sentence and his great escape. We also talk about the death of his mother and what life was like as a child and what life is like now in the UK.   From soldier, to refugee, to British citizen.   Episode 47...
1hr 14m • Jul 13, 2021
1hr 14m
Episode 46 - Keith Abraham
From Paratrooper to Heroic Hearts UK.  In this episode we speak with a former member of the Parachute Regiment about how a 'drink' changed his life.   We also speak about addiction, recovery, purpose, conflict and how psychedelic plant medicine can unlock the door to treating those who have experienced trauma.  Episode 46 - Keith Abraham - This is Declassified  https://www.heroicheartsuk.com
1hr 27m • Jul 06, 2021
1hr 27m
Episode 45 - Henry Glanz
Surviving the holocaust by escaping on the last kinder transport.  During this episode we talk about sexual abuse, separation, his family being murdered and compassion.  We also talk about joining the American army, living in a castle and confronting a downed Nazi pilot in West London. Episode 45 - Henry Glanz Read Kate Thompsons article in the mirror here - https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-n...
49m • Jun 22, 2021
49m
Episode 44 - Alex Seymour
The Psychedelic Marine.  Following a brutal tour of Afghanistan and a chaotic childhood Alex looked for alternate medicines and therapies to help support his wellbeing.   We speak about life, joining the Royal Marines (twice), being a father and how a 'trip' down the Amazon River changed his life.  Alex's book is available at: https://smile.amazon.co.uk/Psychedelic-Marine-Transformational-Jo...
1hr 29m • Jun 15, 2021
1hr 29m
Save The Children Special
In this episode we speak about the true impact conflict has had , is having right now and will have in the future in relation to children.  We also speak about what members of the Military community are doing to support those young people who have been blown up, lost limbs and are now facing a life of uncertainty.  Talking about the links between Save the Children and the Centre for Blast inj...
1hr 3m • Nov 26, 2020
1hr 3m
DC19 - Episode 17 - Dr Justin Havens
Traumatic nightmares, PTSD, Therapy and empowering those who are suffering.   This episodes delves into Justins PHD and the 'Dream Completion Technique' and its unbelievable results in reducing/eliminating nightmares.  For further information please visit - http://tiny.cc/stop-nightmares-extra
29m • Jul 02, 2020
29m
Best Interview Podcast - Gold winner, 2020 British Podcast Awards
Hear the 15 minute nomination that won us gold in 'Best Interview Podcast' in the 2020 British Podcast Awards. Episode 39 - Stewart Hill Episode 36 - Cassidy Little Episode 37 - Kath Ryan Episode 23 - Dr Dave Henson MBE
15m • May 20, 2020
15m
VE Day Special - Re-release of Episode 26 - Dennis Brock
To celebrate the 75th Anniversary of VE day we decided to re-release this amazing episode with Dennis. We speak about the start of the war, Dunkirk, fighting in North Africa, becoming a PoW, near starvation, being in hospital in Italy, the fire storm in Dresden and home coming. 
2hr 47m • May 08, 2020
2hr 47m
DC19 Episode 13 - Dr Jonathan Leach OBE
What is COVID19? How does our immune system work against it? How are the lessons identified in the Military supporting the NHS now? And how is Veteran welfare in NHS currently being impacted?   Dr Jonathan spent over 25 years in the Military and deployed all over the world. He is now a civilian General practitioner, associate director for NHS England for Military and Veteran health and he is al...
39m • Apr 23, 2020
39m
DC19 Episode 12 - Dr Vanessa Moulton
Todays guest is a psychologist who specialising in mental fitness. She has worked at WWTW, H4H, Combat Stress and is the clinical lead on the future HEADFIT project.  We speak about developing good mental fitness using techniques including breathing, nature, the 15 minute rule and a much more.  This podcast includes content funded by the British podcast awards fund an the wellcome trust  We are...
32m • Apr 20, 2020
32m
DC19 Episode 11 - Duke of Sussex - RE:ACT Special
Harry Wales is a former Army officer serving in 2 operation tours of Afghanistan. One on the ground in the Household Cavalry and the second as an Apache pilot with the Army Air Corps.  Since leaving the Army he has been a catalyst in the success of many military programmes developing the veteran community including the Endeavour Fund, Walking With The Wounded and of course, the Invictus Games....
28m • Apr 19, 2020
28m
DC19 Episode 10 - Captain Tom Moore
99 years old, 100 laps of his garden with the aim of raising £1000 for NHS charities. This proud military veteran surpassed all expectations and is now quite literally raising millions of pounds.   We briefly talk about his service during WW2, why he decided to raise money and his thoughts on the importance of our health service. DC19 Episode 10, we are proud to bring you - Captain Tom Moore  T...
10m • Apr 15, 2020
10m
Walking With The Wounded Special - Ed Parker
Service, trauma, rehabilitation, employment, family and longterm recovery.    Hear about the amazing work this charity does and why it was originally setup.   WWTW has developed as its grown and its grown into a very niche charity working with some very vulnerable clients.  Walking With The Wounded Special - Ed Parker - This is Declassified  www.walkingwiththewounded.org.uk
1hr 7m • Apr 15, 2020
1hr 7m
Invictus Games Foundation Special - Dominic Reid OBE
Queens Golden Jubilee, VJ day celebrations and the birth of the Invictus games.  This episodes speaks to the man who has brought us some of the biggest live events this country has ever seen. We speak about why he does what he does and the positive impact todays wounded, injured and sick community is having on society right now.  An Invictus Games Foundation Special - Dominic Reid OBE - This is...
1hr 7m • Apr 12, 2020
1hr 7m
Moral Injury Special - Prof Neil Greenberg
This episode delves into Moral injury.  What happens when our ethical code has been questioned and why that can negatively impact a persons metal health.  We also talk about psychological assessments within the criminal justice system. Moral Injury Special - Prof Neil Greenberg, This is Declassified   This podcast includes content funded by the British Podcast Awards Fund and the Wellcome Trust.
1hr 2m • Apr 03, 2020
1hr 2m
DC19 Episode 06 - David Richmond CBE
In this episode we speak about the Office of Veteran Affairs. We also talk about the charity sector and how the Veteran community will continue to have a meaningful impact on society, right now and in the future.
20m • Apr 01, 2020
20m
Tribute Ink Special - Matt Tomlinson CGC MC
Awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross in Fallujah and the Military Cross in Afghanistan.    Our next guest is one of the most inspiring yet humble individuals to grace the Military community in a generation.   His career is nothing short of outstanding yet his heart ache and loss is significant.   We hear about his heroic actions in foreign fields, the team around him and why his tattoos mean...
1hr 55m • Mar 30, 2020
1hr 55m
Episode 43 - Ash Alexander-Cooper
Special Military Units, Gurkha, pilot, musician, sport and being a dad.    In this episode we speak about living with an alcoholic father, thriving in boarding school, joining the military and the impact this has all had on his life.   We also speak about why being a parent is his proudest achievement and why each second with his daughter is incredibly precious. Episode 43, Ash Alexander-Cooper...
1hr 1m • Mar 27, 2020
1hr 1m
Episode 42 - Stanley Moore
As a child he lived in East London amongst the carnage of the Blitz.     He then became a refugee and moved to Wales where as a young boy he became a coal miner.   Following a traumatic experience he moved back to the East end and witnessed some unbelievable sights.   However, it took him 70 years to speak about what happened in Wales.  Episode 42 - Stanley Moore - This is Declassified 
1hr 10m • Mar 24, 2020
1hr 10m
Episode 41 - Wendy Faux
JUST A WIFE.   A phrase that couldn't be further from the truth.   In this episode we speak about the different sides of the Military. From servicing as a regular to becoming a reservist and life being married to a Soldier.   We also speak about spousal employment and also how the Arts are playing such an important role in changing the conversation and promoting growth & development  @wendyfaux
50m • Jan 24, 2020
50m
Forces Friendly - Episode 5 - Daniel Priestley
Influence, assets, failure, UN global goals and why all 4 will help your business making a bigger impact.  In this episode we speak to Daniel Priestley who is a successful entrepreneur, 4-time best selling author, international speaker and advocate for using business as a force for good.  You can find Daniel on social media @danielpriestley
1hr 11m • Dec 13, 2019
1hr 11m
Episode 40 - Des Fraser
Chaos of childhood, stability of the Military, losing friends and family, joining the Special forces and business.     This episodes delves into the link between childhood trauma and PTSD as an adult. We talk about being exposed to violence as a child, losing his dad and sister to suicide, how he nearly ended his own life and why he positively impacts the world with his company now.   A fascina...
1hr 18m • Dec 12, 2019
1hr 18m
Re-release of Episode 28 - Mandy Islam
We have re-released Mandy's episode in way of tribute to this absolute warrior.   She was, still is and will continue to be an inspiration to many others with this open, honest and compassionate conversation.   We talk about her early life, joining the British Army aged 16, her operational tours, battling cancer and what will now be her legacy.  Major Mandy Islam MBE, from all of the Military C...
59m • Dec 01, 2019
59m
Mental Health Awareness Week - Best Wellbeing Podcast - Bronze winner, 2020 British Podcast Awards
Listen to this 15 minute clip that awarded us Bronze in 2020 British Podcast Awards for 'Best Wellbeing Podcast'.  Episode 28 - Mandy Islam MBE MOD Special - Glenn Haughton OBE Episode 40 - Des Fraser 
15m • Nov 05, 2019
15m
Episode 39 - Stewart Hill
Traumatic brain injury, Afghanistan, Emotion, Recovery, Family and Art.  Described as in impressive and inspirational leader of men. An infantry officer who tells his story with passion and acceptance  We also talk about how painting helped restore purpose and meaning back into his life.   Please note this conversation could be distressing for some listeners.  For information about Stewarts ama...
1hr 19m • Oct 30, 2019
1hr 19m
Forces Friendly - Episode 4 - Veteran Business Special
This is the one we talk about Veteran owned small business .   We speak to Blown Away, Combat Pest Control, Contact Coffee and Hidden Valley Bushcraft.   What does it take to start a company, why purpose is so important and we delve into what is working with regards Facebook advertising.  This is part of the Declassified Network and this is the Forces Friendly Podcast
1hr • Oct 29, 2019
1hr
Episode 38 - Eliot Kennedy
Music, Take That, Spice Girls, Afghanistan and growing up in Yorkshire.  This episodes takes us on the journey of one of the worlds most successful music producers.   We talk childhood, alcohol, domestic violence, purpose, partnerships, his experience in conflict and the power of music.  Episode 38 - Eliot Kennedy - This is Declassified 
1hr 14m • Oct 25, 2019
1hr 14m
Episode 37 - Kath Ryan
Victoria Sponge, Vanilla Slice, Bakewell Tart and a Madeira. This is the incredible and humbling story of the countries best kept secret.   From her childhood in Birmingham, feeding the elderly, becoming a nurse then getting the opportunity to love and care for our most brutally wounded service men and women. But not in the way you'd imagine.  This story starts with a cake and ends with a full ...
1hr • Oct 15, 2019
1hr
SHOUT Special - Victoria Hornby
Royal foundation, Endeavour fund, Heads together and SHOUT.   This episode is all about SHOUT -  24/7 crisis text line that is free, anonymous, clinically supervised and has just launched its Military campaign.   In Crisis - Text Contact to 85258   Want to volunteer or need to know more -https://www.giveusashout.org
56m • Oct 09, 2019
56m
Episode 36 - Cassidy Little
Ballet, The Bet, Standup Comedy, The Royal Marines, Afghanistan, Losing his leg and his career in acting.  This is the second account of the same IED strike we have had on this podcast. A fascinating look at how our guests life has developed because of the trauma he has endured.   We talk about cake, friendships, recovery and Hollywood. Episode 36 - Cassidy Little - This is Declassified 
1hr 7m • Oct 08, 2019
1hr 7m
'Breaking the Cycle' Podcast Clip
Our sister podcast 'Breaking the Cycle' is now live. We talk about child carers, substance abuse, youth homelessness, neglect, development, rough sleeping, domestic violence, Grenfell and much more.... Two years in the making and expect the same quality content as heard on Declassified. Type 'Breaking the Cycle' or 'Michael Coates' into any major podcast platform. https://podcasts.apple.com/...
3m • Oct 03, 2019
3m
Episode 35 - Aldo Kane
Volcanoes, Sniper, Adventure, Royal Marines, Nuclear Bunkers and Climate Change  Our next guest has spent the last 20 years becoming one of televisions go to individuals for safety and access. From his time in the Corps to developing his skills off-shore.   We talk about Iraq, positive habits, human suffering, goal setting and his current work.  Episode 35 - Aldo Kane - This is Declassified 
1hr 4m • Oct 01, 2019
1hr 4m
Episode 34 - JJ Chalmers
Afghanistan ripped him apart physically, purpose and meaning in his life pieced him back together.  This is the remarkable story of a man who typifies what it means to be more than his injury.     We speak about being a Royal Marine Commando, his patrol that sustained huge trauma and the success he has seen in recent years.  Episode 34 - JJ Chalmers - This is Declassified 
1hr 14m • Sep 24, 2019
1hr 14m
Combat Pest Control Special - Michael Coates
Employ Veterans, Educate Children in Conflict, Protect Clients, Support Injured Service Personnel.  Guest host JJ Chalmers talks to the co-founder of Combat Pest Control and host of the Declassified Podcast about why he is so passionate about their 4 point vision.   We talk growth, trauma, education, values, friendships, development, and the positive impact veteran owned business can have on ...
1hr 4m • Sep 16, 2019
1hr 4m
Episode 33 - Summary of 23 - 32 with Dave Henson
Great to have the legend that is Dave Henson back in the studio to overview a huge range of topics.  Episodes which we summarised including trauma, business, education, Afghanistan, Paralympics, Casevac club, plastic surgery, military and psychiatric history, WW2, Cancer, determination, the greatest war story to come out of the last 20 years, refugees and 2 amazing specials cover the MOD and po...
1hr 4m • Sep 14, 2019
1hr 4m

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