Shows
The Professional NoticerThe Children’s Rescue Initiative with Angelo FermoOn this week’s episode of The Professional Noticer, Andy hosts Angelo Fermo, head of the investigative division of the Children’s Rescue Initiative (CRI), an organization dedicated to rescuing children from human trafficking and slavery around the world. Tune in to hear Angelo’s extraordinary journey from federal law enforcement to leading life-saving missions with CRI. Gain insights into the challenges of combating trafficking, the comprehensive training CRI teams undergo, and the ongoing care they provide for rescued children. Plus, learn how you can support CRI’s vital work locally and abroad. Connect with the Chil...2024-12-1029 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E22 - Gillian Yates (Incite Solutions Group) VocRehab pt2In Part 2 and final episode of Invisible Injuries season 5, Andy Fermo continues his conversation with Gillian Yates, diving deeper into the rehabilitation journey for veterans and first responders. The episode explores how Insight Solutions Group customises its approach to help clients overcome psychosocial barriers like social isolation. Gillian explains that recovery often starts with small steps, like casual meetups for coffee or walks, where veterans are encouraged to reconnect with others and begin re-engaging with their community.A key theme is empowerment—helping individuals take control of their lives again after years of military service or first re...2024-10-1556 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E21 - Gillian Yates (Incite Solutions Group) - VocRehab Pt1In part 1 of the final episode of Invisible Injuries season 5, host Andy Fermo engages with Gillian Yates from Insight Solutions Group, a veteran rehabilitation provider specializing in psychosocial recovery. The conversation centers around the importance of vocational rehabilitation, particularly for veterans and first responders who face medical transitions that force them to leave their careers unexpectedly. Gillian shares her passion for supporting these individuals in regaining their independence, helping them find new purpose and direction post-service.The episode explores the challenges of transitioning out of military life, particularly the feelings of loss—of identity, community, and purpose—that...2024-10-0846 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E20 - Robert Kilsby (ex SAS & Mountain Road Racing) pt2In this second part of the Invisible Injuries podcast with Robert Kilsby, Robert and Andy Fermo continue the conversation by diving into Robert’s post-military challenges, including his struggles with unraveling mental health and finding purpose after service. Robert recounts his transition from the military and how his drive for excellence kept him going, but he eventually hit a breaking point, leading him to seek help for his mental health. He describes the difficulty of finding the right support and the frustration of navigating the mental health system. However, through persistence, Robert was able to connect with a specialist wh...2024-09-1753 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E19 - Robert Kilsby (ex SAS & Mountain Road Racing) pt1In this first part of the Invisible Injuries podcast featuring Robert Kilsby, Andy Fermo dives into the incredible journey of a 21-year Special Forces veteran. Robert opens up about his rural upbringing, his early influences from Scouts, and the Army Reserve, which eventually inspired his path into the military. He reflects on his training, beginning at 17, and his eventual selection for the SAS. Throughout the episode, Robert shares gripping stories of his time in Vietnam, including experiences with scouting, patrolling, and collaborations with U.S. Navy SEALs. His recollections shed light on the camaraderie, challenges, and personal growth he...2024-09-101h 01
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E17 - PTS Growth - John Giampino (IGY6 foundation) pt3In episode 3 and finale of the PTS Growth theme, host Andy Fermo continues his conversation with military veteran John Giampino, delving into the profound impact of his service on his mental health and the journey towards healing. John discusses the moral injury he experienced from the lack of support from his hierarchy, which significantly affected his confidence in leadership and his overall mental health. He recounts the traumatic training incident that led to his PTSD and the subsequent struggles with his physical health, including multiple injuries and surgeries.John candidly shares his battle with depression and suicidal...2024-07-3134 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E16 - PTS Growth - John Giampino (IGY6 foundation) pt2In this episode of the Invisible Injuries Podcast, host Andy Fermo engages in a candid conversation with John Giampino, a military veteran, sharing his profound experiences and the impact of his service on his mental health. The episode unfolds in a conversational tone, structured around Giampino’s deployments, the challenges he faced, and his journey towards healing.John begins by reflecting on his time in Bougainville, describing it as a relatively positive experience despite the inherent dangers. He shares anecdotes about daily life and the camaraderie among his peers. The narrative shifts to his deployment in East Ti...2024-07-2442 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E15 - PTS Growth - John Giampino (Ive got your 6 IGY6) pt1In this episode of the Invisible Injuries podcast, host Andy Fermo sits down with John Giampino, a 31-year veteran of the Royal Australian Corps of Transport and an ambassador for "I've Got Your Six." John's extensive military career began with his enlistment in the Melbourne University Regiment and transitioned into full-time service in 1985. He shares his experiences from initial training at Kapooka to various deployments, including peacekeeping missions in Bougainville and East Timor.John's vivid recollections paint a detailed picture of life in the military, from the rigors of training designed to build resilience and condition soldiers...2024-07-1730 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E14 - PTS Growth - Damien Mullen (ex NT/VIC POL) pt 3In part 3, the final segment of our chat, Damien (ex NT/VIC Pol Senior Constable ) opens up about the darkest periods of his PTSD, including being housebound and overwhelmed by guilt and shame. He describes his experience with suicidal thoughts and attempts, and the profound impact of feeling like a burden to his family. A key turning point for Damien was a moment of empathy he felt while watching a press conference, which sparked a flicker of hope. This realisation led him to actively seek out recovery strategies, including mindfulness, breathwork, and self-education. Andy and Da...2024-07-1158 min
Everyday Warriors PodcastEpisode 8 - Andy Fermo: Flip the ScriptSend us a textTrigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of war and frontline-related incidents that may be distressing to some listeners.Meet Andy Fermo, an Australian Defense Force veteran who was medically discharged after experiencing profound tragedies while on a mission overseas. Through incredible resilience and determination, he has rebuilt his life and now runs a mental health-based business and podcast Invisible Injuries, offering support to others facing similar struggles. As a devoted family man, he has embraced a new role at home, taking on more duties while his...2024-07-0855 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E13 - PTS Growth - Damien Mullen (ex NT/VIC Pol) pt 2In part 2 of the interview with ex-Senior Constable Damien Mullen, host Andy Fermo continues to explore the intense and often dangerous situations Damien faced as a police officer in remote areas. Damien shares harrowing stories of life-threatening encounters, including a riot and a deeply traumatic incident on a remote island. He discusses the emotional toll these experiences took on him, leading to a severe PTSD diagnosis. The episode delves into the struggles of accepting the diagnosis, dealing with the stigma, and the journey toward understanding and managing PTSD. Damien's story is a powerful testament to the resilience of first...2024-07-0344 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastRSL Active - Mindfulness & Breathwork 01 (20Jun24)Mindful Meditation and Breath Work with Andy | Focus & Relaxation TechniquesJoin Andy in this 30-minute online mindful meditation and breath work session by RSL Active. Learn techniques to increase focus, eliminate distractions, and achieve a state of deep relaxation. Practice purposeful breathing and visualization, all designed to help you calm your mind and enhance your concentration. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their mindfulness and productivity.00:00 Welcome to Mindful Meditation00:27 Understanding Mindfulness and Breath Work01:07 Eliminating Distractions for Better Focus02:37 Deep Breathing Exercise05:55 Full Body Relaxation08:46 Maintaining Focus and Relaxation2024-07-0113 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E12 - PTS Growth - Damien Mullen (Ex NT/VIC POL) pt1The next theme of the series is "Post Traumatic Growth"In this episode of the Invisible Injuries podcast, host Andy Fermo interviews ex-Senior Constable Damien Mullen, a former first responder who served in the police forces of both the Northern Territory and Victoria. Damien shares his journey from becoming a police officer out of necessity to navigating the challenges of working in remote and urban environments. In the early stages of their chat, Damien recounts his early life, the decision to move to Darwin for better opportunities, and the unexpected path that led him to j...2024-06-2649 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E11 Stuart McKenzie (Road2Resilience) pt5In this episode of the Invisible Injuries podcast, hosts Andy Fermo and Stu McKenzie engage in a candid conversation about the journey of healing and personal growth after trauma. The discussion emphasizes the importance of clarity, accountability, and goal-setting in pursuing one's vision, drawing from their own experiences with creating the Invisible Injuries campaign. They highlight the non-linear nature of healing, likening it to a layered path with rocky patches and moments of triumph. As the conversation unfolds, they delve into the significance of reevaluating relationships and making choices that align with personal values and strengths.2024-06-1949 min
LOOK WHO IS COMING FOR DINNER!EP. 26 - ANDY FERMO (EX - COMMANDO / INVISIBLE INJURIES FOUNDER / DJ)It is my pleasure to introduce to you Andy Fermo for this episode of LWICFD! Andy served as a Commando in the Australian Defence Force, achieving the rank of Corporal and specialising in Electronic Warfare. He served 2 tours in Afghanistan & upon returning home he realised he was suffering from PTSD. Andy tells us of his journey of how he got into the army & some of his time in the war zone & what happened after he came back. He also explains his new project, Invisible Injuries which aims to provide support through connection and ambassadorship to improve the m...2024-06-121h 30
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E10 - Stuart McKenzie (Road2Resilience) pt4In part 4/5 of the Road2Resilience theme the episode navigates through the complex terrain of grief, loss, and resilience, expertly guided by hosts Andy Fermo and Stu McKenzie. They draw parallels between resilience and grief, highlighting how they are two sides of the same coin. The discussion delves into the various emotional landscapes individuals traverse when dealing with loss, from the avoidance marshes to the anger and guilt mudflats. Through insightful analogies, such as comparing grief to a journey through a map, the hosts offer a nuanced perspective on coping mechanisms and the importance of awareness in the healing p...2024-06-1242 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E09- Stu McKenzie (Road2Resilience) pt3In part 3 of their chat on "Road 2 Resilience - Unleash your inner strength" host Andy and Stu delve into the intricacies of dealing with distress, exploring the four Ds: distract, dilute, develop, and discover. They discuss the importance of distraction as a coping mechanism to shift focus away from distressing thoughts and emotions. Moving on to dilution, they highlight techniques such as mindfulness and grounding to bring individuals back to the present moment. The conversation then transitions to the stages of development and discovery, emphasizing the significance of seeking professional help and engaging in therapeutic pr...2024-06-0543 min
Triumph Beyond TraumaEpisode 14 - Andy Fermo**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. Welcome to Episode 14 of "Triumph Beyond Trauma"! TIn this episode we're joined by the remarkable Andy Fermo, whose journey from the frontlines of the Australian Defence Force to civilian life is nothing short of extraordinary. With...2024-06-031h 44
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E08 - Stu McKenzie (Road2Resilience) pt2In part 2 of 5 in the "Road 2 Resilience - Unleash your inner strength"Host Andy and registered psychologist Stu McKenzie discuss the concept of the "relationship highway," highlighting the evolving nature of priorities and values throughout life. Stu McKenzie and Andy Fermo delve into the importance of developmental psychology beyond childhood, emphasising that growth and change persist throughout adulthood. They stress the significance of values clarification and strengths identification in fostering personal development and well-being. The conversation touches on the notion of "mental fitness" as a crucial aspect of overall health, drawing parallels to physical fitness. 2024-05-2935 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E07 - Stu McKenzie (Road2resilience) pt1In this 5 part series host Andy Fermo chats with registered psychologist Stuart McKenzie where the theme is "Road 2 Resilience - Unleashing your inner strength". Having met through a veteran telehealth service during COVID Stuart brought to light his work on refining the Map of Resilience and how people suffering grief, loss and mental health issues will at (many points) visit the places on the map.In this episode the duo explore the emotional rollercoaster of relationship changes. Stu introduces the "resilience map" illustrating this journey, emphasising that while anticipated changes can be navigated smoothly, unexpected...2024-05-2243 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E04 - Flip the script - Mat Austin EW (SF) pt2In the concluding episode of our "Flip the script" theme, Andy Fermo engages in a candid conversation with veteran Mat Austin, ex Electronic Warfare (SF) operator.Mat shares his journey of "Flipping the script", assuming the role of a stay-at-home parent and homemaker, which deviates from the traditional breadwinner role. Mat reflects on the day-to-day challenges of parenting, emphasising the need for emotional regulation and self-awareness. Despite facing judgment from others and struggling with feelings of inadequacy, Mat finds fulfilment in spending time with his children and being actively involved in their growth and development. H...2024-05-081h 02
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E02 - Flip the script - Kurt Ludke (Commando Cook) pt2In the concluding episode of the Invisible Injuries podcast, host Andy Fermo continues his conversation with Kurt Ludke, ex-Special forces commando, adaptive sports athlete and mental health ambassador. Kurt shares his journey of finding therapy through a recent knifemaking programafter his time as an ex-special forces commando, highlighting how it helped him cope with challenges and connect with others. He delves into his experience "flipping the script" as a stay-at-home dad, emphasising the importance of this role and how it has allowed him to evolve his cooking skills, finding passion and therapy in the kitchen as the C...2024-04-0357 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS05E01 - Flip the script - Kurt Ludke (Commando Cook) - Pt1In the opening episode of Invisible Injuries podcast - Season 5 the focus is on themes, kicking off with “Flipping the script” where our male guests (for whatever reason) have “flipped thier script and found themselves taking more of a support role, the challenges, the invaluable benefits and overcoming stigmas. In episode one, host Andy Fermo speaks with Kurt Ludke, an ex-Special Forces Commando, about his experiences serving in the military and the challenges he’s faced with mental health and wellbeing.Kurt shares insights into the intense training and preparation required for deployments, the adrenaline rush of...2024-03-2654 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS04E22 - Brodie Moore (Veteran Benefits Australia) pt2In the final episode of season 4 Andy concludes his chat with Brodie Moore, ex 6RAR veteran, Registered Nurse and spokesperson for Veteran Benefits Australia.Brodie share's his lived experience transitioning from military to civilian life, he speaks to coming back to his Jiu-Jitsu training and the opportunities through the sport which which allowed him a smoother transition into being a civvy. This however wasn't without its challenges where Brodie recalls the big culture shift and difference in mindset from the military, in particular lowing his expectations and standards to meet his new surroundings and work culture.2023-10-131h 01
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS04E21 - Brodie Moore (Veteran Benefits Australia) pt1In the season finale episodes Andy speaks with Brodie Moore, ex 6RAR soldier, now spokesperson for Veteran Benefits Australia.Brodie shares his enlistment and recruit training experiences, subsequent posting to 6RAR and how he used his martial arts skills having trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to inadvertently create an opportunity building rapport, trust and confidence to be a handful of young diggers posted to the company within the battalion next-in-line to deploy to Afghanistan. It was his enlistment dream and wish come true.Moving on he also details daily life at a Forward operating base, keeping...2023-10-0551 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS04E20 - Craig Watson (Walking for warriors) pt2In the concluding episode to Andy's chat with Craig Watson from Walking4Warriors (Gladstone QLD) the focus shifts to the core values and ethos of the organisation and their plan to expand thier offerings and fundraising to be inclusive of the first responder community in the CQ area.Of all the attributes, "Resilience" is what comes to the forefront of Craigs mind and how a regular core activity such as their weekly walks are bringing veterans, first responders, their immediate support and wider community together.He recalls the buzz and sense of achievement and satisfaction...2023-09-2033 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS04E18 - Trudie Dwyer (WAPOL Bibulmun self discovery) pt2In the concluding episode to host Andy's chat with Trudy Dwyer, ex WAPOL officer (General Duties), the pair shift the focus to the point in time where Trudy was experiencing the debilitating effects of her PTSD, anxiety and dysfunctional nervous system.Being stood down from duty medically wasn't easy for Trudy to come to terms with and she withdrew further, self medicating, stress eating and increased drinking leading to putting on weight....she entered a toxic feedback loop.It got to a point where Trudy decided enough was enough and made the decision to seek...2023-08-3153 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS04E17 - Trudy Dwyer (WAPOL Bibbulmun self discovery) pt1In this episode host Andy chats with Trudy Dwyer, a former WAPOL officer (General Duties). The pair chat about her motivation to join WAPOL as a mature age recruit and (at the time) single mum with two teenage kids. From her lens Trudy shares her experience at the recruit training college and the generational gap between her and the majority of the cohort. What was initially a dream posting to a smaller station closeby to where she grew up in the Goldfields region, Western Australia slowly turned into a nightmare with her experiencing a cumulation of on-the-job o...2023-08-2442 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS04E16 - Tanya Cory (Yoga & Wellness coach) pt2In the concluding episode to Andy's chat with Tanya Cory, Yoga Teacher and Wellness Coach she shares insights for beginners looking to commence a yoga practice, the importance of building a solid foundation thats in-tune with the persons mobility and range of motion for that day and finding a teacher & style that you connect.Rounding off the episode Tanya also speaks to the holistic benefits of the other parts of yoga besides the postures including self-regulation techniques of active breathing (pranayama), acceptance and being mindful and present in the moment.Contact - Tanya CoryWe...2023-08-1832 min
Invisible Injuries - PodcastS04E14 - Lex D Reilly (Compelled) pt2Strap in for the concluding episode of host Andy's chat with Lex D Reilly, Army veteran (6RAR), survival expert, wellness coach and founder of "Compelled" as an international wilderness guide.Lex allows himself to be vulnerable by opening up and sharing a snapshot of his work, personal struggles what daily life was like at end of his military career, transitioning back to civilian life and toxic coping mechanisms of alcohol and substance abuse. At this point his purpose and self-care plan wasn't a 10 year plan, it was a minute to minute, day by day plan to survive. 2023-08-031h 00