2 Worlds Collide Podcast

#28 - Dr Dan Pronk - The 1042km Journey: Dr. Dan Pronk on Service, Resilience, and Frontline Support

In this compelling episode of 2 Worlds Collide, we sit down with Dr. Dan Pronk, former Special Forces Doctor and co-founder of the newly formed Aussie Frontline Foundation, for an in-depth conversation on resilience, service, and supporting those on the frontlines.
Dr. Dan Pronk shares his journey from civilian life to becoming a Special Forces combat doctor, deployed to some of the most dangerous environments in the world, including Afghanistan. Dan delves into the challenges of serving in high-stakes situations, the psychological toll on frontline workers, and the methods he’s developed to build resilience.
We also discuss the Aussie Frontline Foundation and its mission to support the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of veterans and frontline workers, many of whom face silent battles like PTSD. This conversation ties into the 1042km run from Melbourne to Adelaide I’m undertaking to raise awareness and funds for this incredible cause.
💬 Key Talking Points:
Dr. Dan Pronk’s transition to Special Forces as a combat doctor
Life-saving decisions in high-pressure deployments
The toll of service on mental health and resilience strategies
Co-founding the Aussie Frontline Foundation and its mission
The 1042km charity run and the importance of supporting frontline workers
This episode is packed with insights on the realities of service, the power of resilience, and how we can support those who dedicate their lives to protecting us.
Donate to Sam's Run: https://gofund.me/404bcc9c
🔗 Connect with us:🌐 Website: https://www.2worldscollide.com.au📱 Instagram: @2worldscollidepodcast🐦 TikTok: @2.worlds.collide.podcast📱 X: @2worldsPodcast
#2WorldsCollidePodcast #DrDanPronk #AussieFrontlineFoundation #SpecialForces #Resilience #VeteranSupport #CharityRun #GreatOceanRoad #VeteranStories #PodcastCommunity

#27 - Steve Moharic - War, Loss, and Redemption: K9 Steve’s Story of Resilience

In this powerful episode of 2 Worlds Collide, we’re joined by K9 Steve, a former Special Forces Commando and Military Working Dog Handler whose story is one of resilience, loyalty, and transformation. From a past shaped by dangerous influences to a life of service and purpose, K9 Steve's journey is an inspiring look at what it means to overcome, adapt, and find strength.
Listen as K9 Steve shares his early life journey and the pivotal decision to enlist in the military—a choice that would lead him to the Special Forces and deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Steve reflects on his service, including the unforgettable day he lost Corporal Cameron Baird VC MG, a comrade whose legacy continues to impact those who served with him. We also discuss the profound bond Steve formed with his K9 partner, Guge, a relationship that brought resilience and meaning during challenging moments in combat. Post-military, Steve has redefined himself as a hybrid athlete and top K9 trainer, competing in HYROX events and inspiring others with his dedication and discipline.
This episode is packed with insights on the realities of military service, the strength of the human spirit, and the power of transformation.
Key Talking Points:
Early life and influences that led him to the military
Decision to enlist and becoming a Special Forces Commando
Deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan
Reflecting on the loss of Corporal Cameron Baird VC MG
Building a life-saving bond with K9 partner, Guge
Competing in HYROX and finding new purpose post-military
Insights on resilience, loyalty, and personal growth
Connect with us:🌐 Website: https://www.2worldscollide.com.au/📱 Instagram: @2worldscollidepodcast🐦 TikTok: @2.worlds.collide.podcast📱 X: @2worldsPodcast
#2WorldsCollidePodcast #K9Steve #SpecialForces #Resilience #MilitaryService #VeteranStories #PodcastCommunity #Transformation #MentalStrength #Redemption #Comradeship #Endurance #VeteranSupport

#26 - Scott Ryder - Triumph Over Tragedy and the Brereton Fallout - A Commandos Story

In this impactful episode, we welcome Scott Ryder, former 2 Commando Special Forces soldier, who recounts the tragic 2010 helicopter crash in Afghanistan that claimed the lives of three Australian Special Forces soldiers, including the host of the shows cousin, Scott Palmer. Scott Ryder shares a deeply personal look into the emotional and psychological impact of this devastating event and the remarkable resilience required to return to service and continue deploying after such a profound loss.
Scott Ryders story exemplifies true strength, highlighted in his recently released book, Forged by Fire: A 2 Commando Story, which chronicles his journey and experiences in the field. We also delve into the significant effects of the Brereton Inquiries and how home raids and investigations have been impacting the 2 Commando community and their families.
In this episode, we explore:
Scott’s extensive service, including deployments to Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan
The emotional and psychological toll of the 2010 helicopter crash
His return to active duty and the resilience it took to continue serving
The ongoing impact of the Brereton Inquiries on those who put everything on the line
Tune in for a compelling discussion about military life, resilience, and the challenges faced by those who have served in high-risk operations.
Connect with us: 🌐 Website: 2worldscollide.com.au 📱 Instagram: @2worldscollidepodcast 🐦 TikTok: @2.worlds.collide.podcast 📱 X: @2worldsPodcast
Scott Ryder, Special Forces, Afghanistan deployments, 2010 helicopter crash, Forged by Fire, Veteran resilience, Military service, Brereton Inquiry impacts, Mental health, Combat stories, PTSD recovery, Veteran support, Community and family impact, Leadership.

#25 - Shane Walker - From Pain to Power: Shane Walker on Endurance, Recovery, and Resisting the Tech Trap

In this impactful episode, we welcome back ultra-runner and Knees Over Toes advocate and ATG Qualified Coach, Shane Walker. Shane opens up about the powerful transformation the Knees Over Toes program brings to recovery and performance, sharing how it helps everyday people tackle stubborn injuries and enhance their movement.
Beyond physical resilience, Shane and Sam explore their ultra-marathon journeys, revealing the mental grit behind every mile. They also dive into the growing issue of tech and social media addiction in children and its effects on youth well-being.
In this episode, we explore:
The Knees Over Toes program for lasting recovery and enhanced performance
Insights from Shane and Sam’s ultra-marathon journeys and the mental endurance they require
Strategies to tackle tech and social media addiction in today’s digital world
Listen now for a motivating look at resilience, recovery, and redefining limits!
Connect with us: 🌐 Website: 2worldscollide.com.au📱 Instagram: @2worldscollidepodcast🐦 TikTok: @2.worlds.collide.podcast📱 X: @2worldsPodcast
Keywords: Shane Walker, Knees Over Toes, ultra-running, tech addiction, injury recovery, mental resilience, endurance, recovery journey, mental toughness, youth wellness
#2WorldsCollidePodcast #ShaneWalker #UltraRunning #KneesOverToes #InjuryRecovery #Resilience #TechAddiction #MindsetMatters #PodcastLife #LinkInBio

#24 - Leo Gal - The Fight for Greatness: Rising MMA Star, Concussions, and Controversy in Combat Sports

In this compelling episode, we welcome Leo Gal, a rising young MMA fighter from Adelaide, as he shares his intense journey in the world of mixed martial arts. 🥊
Leo takes us behind the scenes of his career, discussing the physical and mental challenges he faces, including the effects of concussions and his thoughts on the controversial Power Slap competition. His story is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and mental toughness required to compete at the highest levels of combat sports.
Beyond the cage, Leo’s insights into fighter life, his rapid rise in the MMA scene, and the impact of concussions on athletes shed light on the highs and lows of this demanding sport. His journey offers inspiration for anyone facing their own battles, whether in or out of the ring.
In this episode, we explore:
Leo’s rise in the MMA world and his relentless dedication to the sport
The intense training required to compete at an elite level
The effects of concussions and the challenges they pose for fighters
Leo’s perspective on the controversy surrounding Power Slap, created by Dana White
Mental toughness and resilience in combat sports
Tune in for a raw and insightful conversation about the reality of fighter life, the importance of mental strength, and what it takes to succeed in the fast-paced world of MMA. 💥
Connect with us: 🌐 Website: www.2worldscollide.com.au 📱 Instagram: @2worldscollidepodcast🐦 TikTok: @2.worlds.collide.podcast📱 X: @2worldsPodcast📱 YouTube: @2WorldsCollidePodcast
Leo Gal, MMA fighter, Combat sports, Concussions in sports, Power Slap, Dana White, Fighter life, Mental toughness, MMA Adelaide, Combat resilience, Athlete mindset, Combat sports podcast, 2 Worlds Collide

#23 - Matthew French - From Combat to Community - Resilience, Loss, and Leading the Next Generation

In this powerful episode, we welcome Matthew French, former Australian Army Paratrooper, who shares the first-ever public account of the tragic incident on August 29, 2012, when three Australian soldiers were killed in Afghanistan. Matthew gives us a deeply personal look into the emotional and psychological toll of combat, as well as the incredible mental resilience it takes to navigate such devastating losses.
Beyond his military service, Matthew is now the founder of Veteran Mentors, a groundbreaking program that uses military-style training to empower troubled youth with essential life skills like resilience, discipline, and leadership. His story is a testament to the enduring strength of veterans, not just on the battlefield but in their ability to give back to the community and shape the next generation of leaders.
In this episode, we explore:
Matthew’s journey as a paratrooper and his deployment to Afghanistan
The emotional impact of the August 29, 2012 incident
His personal path to PTSD recovery and mental resilience
How Veteran Mentors is making a lasting impact on youth through structured, military-inspired programs
Tune in for an inspiring discussion about military life, the challenges of returning to civilian life, and the transformative power of leadership and mentorship.
Connect with us:🌐 Website: 2worldscollide.com.au📱 Instagram: @2worldscollidepodcast🐦 TikTok: @2.worlds.collide.podcast📱 X: @2worldsPodcastMatthew French, Paratrooper, Afghanistan deployment, August 29 incident, Veteran Mentors, PTSD recovery, Military life, Youth leadership programs, Combat resilience, Mentorship, Veterans’ mental health, Military-to-civilian transition, Mental toughness

#22 - John Dixon Former 2 Commando Special Forces Sniper - Global Conflicts, Elite Military Life & Human Trafficking

We’re excited to welcome John Dixon, former 2 Commando Special Forces Sniper, to the 2 Worlds Collide Podcast! 🎖️🔥 In this episode, John shares his military journey, spanning deployments to East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan, along with his experience working in high-risk regions across Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.
John provides deep insights into:
Special Forces life and global security operations
The conflicts in Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Middle East
Human trafficking, particularly child trafficking, and its comparison to the global drug trade
Mental resilience and PTSD recovery for veterans
Transitioning from military service to a career in private security
This episode explores critical social issues, military life, and global conflict dynamics, giving listeners a deep dive into pressing national and international matters.
Key Topics:
Special Forces life
Global conflicts: Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Middle East
Human trafficking and child trafficking
Mental resilience and PTSD
Transition from military to private security
Military life, Special Forces, Russia-Ukraine conflict, Israel-Middle East conflict, Human trafficking, Child trafficking, Global security, PTSD recovery, Veteran resilience, Combat stories, Elite military training
#2WorldsCollidePodcast #JohnDixon #MilitaryLife #SpecialForces #RussiaUkraineWar #HumanTrafficking #PTSDRecovery #VeteranStories #GlobalConflicts #PodcastAustralia #LinkInBio

#21 - Ross Nihill - Military Resilience & Extreme Fitness: From Royal Marine to Paramedic

In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Ross Nihill, a former British Royal Marine Commando, Australian Airborne Infantry Paratrooper, and current Paramedic, to the 2 Worlds Collide Podcast! 🎖️🔥 Ross shares his remarkable journey, from his challenging upbringing in the UK to serving in high-stakes military deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan alongside host Sam Bamford.
We discuss Ross’s transition from military service to civilian life, where he now works as a paramedic on the Gold Coast. Additionally, Ross channels his passion for fitness into extreme challenges like Hyrox and Ironman competitions. 🏋️‍♂️🚴‍♂️
Key Topics:
Life as a Royal Marine Commando and Airborne Infantry Paratrooper
Deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan
Transition from military to civilian life as a paramedic
Hyrox and Ironman competition challenges
Mental resilience, military fitness, and overcoming adversity
Tune in for an inspiring look at resilience, extreme fitness, and life after the military.
Royal Marine Commando, Airborne Infantry, Afghanistan war, Hyrox competition, Ironman training, Paramedic life, Military to civilian transition, Veteran stories, Combat veteran, Mental resilience, PTSD recovery, Extreme fitness, Elite fitness challenges
#2WorldsCollidePodcast #RossNihill #RoyalMarines #Hyrox #Ironman #AfghanistanWar #MilitaryLife #EliteFitness #MentalToughness #PTSDRecovery #VeteranStories #ParamedicLife #PodcastAustralia #ExtremeFitness #CombatVeteran #ResilienceJourney

#20 - Jordan Knight - Immigration, Housing Crisis & Free Speech: Jordan Knight on Australia's Future

We’re thrilled to have Jordan Knight, founder of Migration Watch Australia 🫡, join the 2 Worlds Collide Podcast! 🇦🇺🌍 In this episode, we take a deep dive into immigration in Australia, with Jordan discussing how mass immigration is impacting housing, wages, and the country's social fabric. 🏠📊
We also explore the ongoing housing crisis, the political landscape, and concerns around free speech and government censorship. Jordan highlights the need for open dialogue to address these pressing issues and how they will shape Australia's future.
Key Topics:
Mass immigration and its impact on housing and wages in Australia
Australia's housing crisis and solutions for affordable housing
Free speech, government censorship, and political issues
The importance of dialogue on immigration and housing policy
Stay connected with Migration Watch Australia:🌐 Website: https://www.migrationwatchaustralia.com.au📱 TikTok: @migrationwatchaustralia🐦 X (Twitter): @migrationwaus📱 Instagram: @migrationwatchau
Immigration in Australia, Housing crisis, Wage stagnation, Free speech, Government censorship, Political landscape Australia, Immigration reform, Affordable housing, Social impact of immigration, Open dialogue on national issues, National debate
#2WorldsCollidePodcast #JordanKnight #ImmigrationDebate #HousingCrisis #FreeSpeech #GovernmentCensorship #PoliticalSceneAustralia #PodcastAustralia #CurrentEvents #AffordableHousing #NationalDialogue

#19 - Andrew Lock - Mountaineering & Death Zone Survival

I’m excited to welcome Australia’s most decorated mountaineer, Andrew Lock, to the 2 Worlds Collide Podcast. 🧗‍♂️❄️ Andrew is the only Australian to have summited all 14 of the world’s 8000m peaks, including some of the most dangerous mountains like Everest, K2, Annapurna, and Nanga Parbat. Known for his minimalist style—small teams, minimal support, and no bottled oxygen (except on Everest)—Andrew has gained the respect of Himalayan climbers and defied the odds by avoiding frostbite after decades of climbing.
In this episode, we explore Andrew’s toughest challenges, surviving in the "death zone," and how he’s maintained a 50% success rate on 8000m peaks, where the death-to-summit ratio can be as high as one-in-five. 🧠💪
Key Topics:
High-altitude mountaineering
Climbing without oxygen
Surviving in the "death zone"
Everest, K2, Annapurna, and other dangerous climbs
Minimalist climbing style and success rates
To get in contact with Andrew about climbing courses and speaking events, visit his website here: https://andrew-lock.com
High-altitude mountaineering, Death zone survival, 8000m peaks, Everest climbing, K2 summit, Climbing without oxygen, Extreme adventure sports, Dangerous mountains, Andrew Lock, Minimalist climbing style, Outdoor adventure podcast
#2WorldsCollidePodcast #AndrewLock #Mountaineering #Everest #K2 #Annapurna #ExtremeSports #8000mPeaks #DeathZoneSurvival #HighAltitudeClimbing #MinimalistClimbing #PodcastAustralia #AdventurePodcast #DangerousMountains