In this deeply honest episode of Triumph Beyond Trauma , Rosie sits down with Steve Budgen — a former Navy diver, tactical operations leader with the AFP, and now a crisis leadership and resilience consultant. But this conversation isn’t just about job titles or high-stakes operations. It’s about the human behind the uniform, the layers of trauma many carry in silence, and what it really takes to heal and rebuild a meaningful life.
Steve shares his journey from a chaotic childhood through the intensity of frontline policing and into the unexpected challenges of civilian life. He talks openly about complex PTSD, imposter syndrome, and the emotional toll of leaving behind a tribe that once gave him purpose. But he also shares what pulled him through — a strong work ethic, daily journaling, breathwork, Pilates, and the simple but powerful act of choosing to believe in himself, over and over again.
This episode is packed with moments of insight and truth that so many first responders, veterans, and anyone navigating big life transitions will relate to. Steve’s vulnerability, humility, and refusal to let his past define him will leave you feeling inspired and less alone.
Whether you’re in the thick of it or on the other side, this episode is a testament to what’s possible when you back yourself, even in the smallest way.
** Content Warning **
Due to the nature of this Podcast and the discussions that I have with Guests, I feel it's important to underline that there may be content within the episodes that have the potential to cause harm. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact one of the services below for support.
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Roll With The Punches Podcast Episode 820
Everyday Warriors Podcast Episode 16
Emerge & See Podcast Episode 12
Find Steve Budgen
Mental Health Resources:
000 - Concerns for someone's immediate welfare, please call 000 (Australia)
RUOK? - Resources https://www.ruok.org.au/every-day-resources
LIFELINE, Crisis Support & Suicide Prevention - 13 11 14 - https://www.lifeline.org.au/
Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636 - https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
1800 Respect, Domestic, Family & Sexual Violence Counselling - 1800 737 732 -https://www.1800respect.org.au/
Suicide Call Back Service, 24hr free video & online counselling - 1300 659 467 -https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/
Blue Knot, Empowering Recovery from Complex Trauma - 1300 650 380 - https://blueknot.org.au/
Head Space, National Youth Mental Health Foundation - https://www.headspace.com/
Black Dog Institute - https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
Kids Helpline (24/7, for youth 5-25) 1800 55 1800 - https://kidshelpline.com.au/
Support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples - 13 YARN (24/7) 13 92 76 - https://www.13yarn.org.au/
MensLine (24/7) 1300 78 99 78 - https://mensline.org.au/
QLife (3pm-midnight) 1800 184 527 - Anonymous, free LGBTI support - https://qlife.org.au/
