H-Hour Podcast

****** Please support me via Patreon https://patreon.com/hkpodcasts ***** Joining Hugh for this episode: Bags Simmons (owner of Bare Arms TV & Film, British Army veteran) and Alex Brockdorff (actor, director, British Army veteran). The conversation revolves around alien invasion sci fi films. Kicking off with Starship Troopers and its satirical elements. The hosts discuss the deliberate poor acting, the portrayal of propaganda and dehumanization, and the underlying themes of war and sacrifice. They explore the director’s intention to create a multi-layered film that works as both a mindless action flick and a critique of society. The conversation also touches on the historical context of World War II and the parallels with the film’s depiction of war and recruitment. Overall, the hosts appreciate the depth and nuance of Starship Troopers, despite its initial appearance as a simple sci-fi invasion film. In this part of the conversation, the hosts discuss various sci-fi movies, including Starship Troopers, Battlefield Earth, Edge of Tomorrow, War of the Worlds, Signs, The Thing, They Live, and Mars Attacks. They explore the themes, unique aspects, and impact of these films, highlighting the creativity and originality of certain movies. They also touch on the challenges of creating original ideas in the film industry and the dominance of existing IP and remakes.

****** Discuss this episode in the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** Geraint Jones is an author, host of Veteran State of Mind, and a former soldier. In this conversation, Geraint discusses his new book about World War II and the Battle of Normandy. Geraint and host Hugh Keir also touch on the topic of war and its impact on veterans. Geraint shares personal stories and accounts from soldiers who fought in the war, highlighting the emotional toll and the challenges they faced. They discuss WW2 veterans emotions and not being looked after after the war. The conversation also explores the differences between World War I and World War II veterans and the attitudes and emotions they had. Geraint emphasizes the importance of personal stories and the need to preserve and share them. The conversation delves into the themes of manipulation, indoctrination, and the complexities of human behaviour during times of war.

****** Discuss this episode in the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** Andy Lockwood is a leadership, performance and culture consultant. He is the founder of The Rugby Outreach Project, Sports Vacancies and Grey Wolf Teams. In this episode he discusses the concept of empathy and its impact on team performance in sports, particularly in football. He shares his research on the three pillars of effective teams: shared experience, mutual understanding, and empathy. Lockwood highlights a study on an Italian football team that found increased levels of empathy led to more shots on goal and increased performance. He also explores the role of empathy in other industries, such as business and the military. Lockwood discusses his own work in implementing empathy-related strategies in sports teams and organizations. The conversation covers various topics related to rugby, including the impact of money on the sport, the challenges at grassroots level, the differences between rugby union and rugby league, and the success of the Japanese team in the Rugby World Cup. The conversation also touches on the treatment of team managers in football compared to rugby, the importance of soft skills in recruitment, and the need for adaptability in post-military careers.

****** Discuss this episode in the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** The conversation covers James’ experience filming in Afghanistan during the withdrawal of US troops and the Taliban takeover. James and Hugh discuss the failure of democracy, the misconceptions about Afghanistan, the corruption within the Afghan government and military, and the role of Pakistan in supporting the Taliban. They also touch on the controversy surrounding the evacuation efforts, including the Pen Farthing situation. The conversation highlights the lack of trust in leadership and the dire situation for women and girls under Taliban rule. The conversation covers various topics, including the rise of ISIS, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, long-term strategic thinking, the potential for national service, the changing nature of warfare, the future of Afghanistan, the challenges in the film and TV industry, and the issue of censorship.

The conversation covers various topics related to training, knowledge, and mental health. Danny Bourne and Hugh Keir discuss the fight, flight, or freeze response and the importance of knowing what to do in a life-threatening situation. They also talk about the challenges and experiences of high-risk search operations in the military. The conversation then shifts to the creation and purpose of the clothing brand ‘In The Dead Ground’ and its aim to promote mental health awareness and self-help. The speakers discuss the barriers and misconceptions surrounding mental health and the importance of changing the conversation around it. The conversation explores the importance of creating an environment where people feel comfortable discussing their feelings and mental health. It emphasizes the power of advocacy and vulnerability in opening up conversations. The discussion also touches on the benefits of physical activities like jiu-jitsu and boxing in promoting mental well-being. The conversation highlights the need to disconnect from technology and give the brain time to process thoughts and emotions. It concludes with the recognition that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health and physical fitness, and that it’s important to find what works for each individual. In this final part of the conversation, Hugh Keir discusses the vulnerability and trust involved in grappling sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He also talks about the importance of mental health awareness and the need for open conversations about personal experiences. The conversation ends with a discussion about starting a podcast and the challenges of editing and promoting it. ****** Discuss this episode in the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX *****

This conversation with Bags Simmons (founder of Bare Arms: Military Advisers to TV and Film) covers a range of topics related to filmmaking, including weapons collection, shooting ranges, sniper training, filming experiences, budget allocation, cult films, and inaccurate depictions in films. The discussion highlights the challenges and considerations involved in creating realistic action sequences and the impact of budget on the quality of productions. The conversation also touches on the use of AI and CGI in filmmaking and the potential implications for actors and the industry. In this conversation, Bags and Hugh discuss the impact of AI on filmmaking, particularly in post-production. They also explore the range of actors and the different types of roles they can play. The conversation touches on successful actors with limited range and those with unique mannerisms. Bags and Hugh speculate on the future of film and TV, considering the changing landscape and audience preferences. They also discuss the possibility of doing future film and TV reviews.  ****** Discuss this episode in the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX *****

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Tom Whittle is a former commissioned officer with a diverse background, including law, competitive intelligence, and service in the Parachute Regiment. As the co-founder and delivery lead at Frontierco.org, he spearheads projects by conducting in-depth liaison and analysis to accurately identify the requirements of each organisation seeking assistance. Tom and his team, comprised of ex-UK military veterans, specialise in providing advisory and development services across Sub-Saharan Africa. In this conversation, Tom discusses the importance of challenging perceptions and constantly expanding one’s perspective. He shares his experience transitioning from a military career to working in the conservation industry in Africa. The conversation also touches on the problems with politics and the need for transparency in leadership. Tom emphasizes the difference between influence and manipulation, highlighting the importance of intent and moral boundaries. The power of charisma and authenticity in leadership is explored, along with the challenges of influencing others as an outsider in a different culture. In this conversation, Tom discusses his work in the conservation industry and the challenges faced. He emphasizes the importance of crafting and maintaining working relationships, as well as the need for long-term planning and buy-in from stakeholders. Tom also highlights the value of collaboration with rangers and local communities, as well as the significance of demonstrating impact and gaining trust. He shares his approach of confidently underselling and overdelivering, and how conservation principles can be applied to other industries. Tom provides insights into the reintroduction of rhinos in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and discusses various projects in Zambia. He addresses the challenges in the conservation industry, including short-term metrics and the perception of failure.

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Dr Simon Ruffell is a Psychiatrist & Senior Research Fellow and co-founder of Onaya Science.

Dr WaiFung Tsang is a Clinical Psychologist and co-founder of Onaya Science.

This conversation explores the research and therapeutic potential of ayahuasca, a psychedelic brew used in indigenous communities in South America. The discussion covers topics such as epigenetic changes, the long-term effects of ayahuasca, the gut-brain connection, and the involvement of indigenous communities in research. The conversation also touches on the challenges of conducting research in a shamanic and ritualistic context and the perception of ayahuasca research in the scientific community. This conversation explores various aspects of ayahuasca and its impact on spiritual practices, the benefits of plant medicine and Chinese medicine, the availability and variations of ayahuasca, research on ayahuasca-like compounds, the selection of the Shipibo community for retreats, the journey of research and learning in ayahuasca, the Amazon as an unknown cradle of civilization, future research and expansion of studies, exploring ayahuasca and traumatic brain injury, the changing perception of psychedelics in society, Onaya’s website and training programs, and funding and support for Onaya’s research.

Join the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** The conversation covers various topics related to nuclear weapons, including the inspiration for the First Strike series, the seriousness of the nuclear threat, tactical nuclear weapons, the risk of escalation in Ukraine, the need for nuclear arms control, the history of nuclear arms and deterrence, the risk of non-state actors obtaining nuclear weapons, and reducing the risk of nuclear conflict. The conversation also touches on the border control policy of the Biden administration. In this conversation, the topics discussed include open borders and immigration, potential nuclear threats, Taiwan and China, legalization of drugs, issues with drug treatment facilities, and promoting books and website. https://www.thomasjyeggy.com/

Join the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** This conversation explores the field of psychopharmacology and the potential of psychedelics in treating mental health disorders. The guest, Jo Neill, a professor of psychopharmacology, discusses the definition and scope of psychopharmacology, the effects of psychedelics on the brain, and the challenges in drug discovery for mental health. The conversation highlights the need for alternative approaches to mental health treatment and the potential of psychedelics to heal individuals. The safety and long-lasting effects of psychedelics are also discussed, along with the concept of microdosing and blinding in clinical trials. Prof. Jo Neill emphasizes the promising substances of psilocybin and DMT in treating mental health conditions. This conversation explores the healing potential of psychedelics for trauma and mental health. The chapters cover topics such as understanding and facing trauma, the healing power of psychedelics, the default mode network and trauma, switching off the default mode network, reconnecting with childhood and healing, personal experiences with psychedelics, the positive impact and perception shift, challenges and legalization, clinical trials and MDMA for PTSD, the need for drug law reform, and how to support psychedelic medicine.

Jo is also a co-host of the excellent Drug Science podcast, available on all common podcast apps.   Source link here: https://www.drugscience.org.uk/drug-science-podcast/

Join the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** Julian “Woody” Woodall is a former Bombardier in the British Army and has recently completed “Escape From Norway 2023” where he retraced the steps of allied troops on Operation Title. Woody is also the owner of Medic Services International – a medical training company operating in the UK and globally.

Join the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** Steve Tunnicliffe spent his adolescent childhood years in Somalia before it descended into chaos. He encountered traditions, customs, and practices that predate Islam, many of which are likely to have vanished by now. He witnessed the beauty of a country with a deep cultural heritage that stretches far beyond the shores of the Indian Ocean. His book “Somalia: The Land of Camel Milk and Honey” is a collection of reflections and recollections from a time long past but still deeply held dear by many Somalis and visitors to this day.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Somalia-Camel-Honey-Reflections-Recollections/dp/191696480X
https://www.stevetunnicliffe.com/

Join the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** In this conversation, Hugh Keir and Dr Grace discuss the properties and benefits of CBD, the role of the endocannabinoid system in regulating brain and body functions, and the potential of psychedelics in treating mental health disorders. They also explore the importance of sleep and the impact of sleep deprivation on mental health. Hugh shares insights from his work with veterans and the positive effects of psychedelic medicine in helping them heal and regain emotional connection. The conversation highlights the need for further research and understanding of these alternative treatments. This conversation explores the use of psychedelic medicines in treating PTSD and mental health disorders in the UK armed forces. The discussion covers the potential benefits of psilocybin mushrooms in psychotherapy and the government’s response to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. The risks and side effects of psychedelic medicines are also discussed, along with the importance of proper screening and safety precautions. The conversation delves into the future of psychedelic medicine and different models of therapy, including the use of psychedelics in the Netherlands. The importance of community support networks and the role of psychedelics in reconnecting with oneself and society are highlighted. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the significance of ancestry and cultural practices in psychedelic therapy and the need to reduce stigma and engage the military community in this healing modality.

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Tim Owen is one third of 3 Dads Walking. 3 Dad’s Walking in their own words: “Suicide is the biggest killer of those under 35 in the UK. We only learned this terrifying fact because our daughters took their own lives within the last 3 years. By raising awareness, we hope we can help prevent other families from being devastated by suicide.” https://www.3dadswalking.uk/ https://www.papyrus-uk.org/

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Jen Price is a former British Army Officer who spent the entirety of 2022 undertaking an extreme set of adventure and endurance challenges on behalf of the Veteran’s Foundation. https://jennevolve.co.uk

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Joshua Bethania is a comedian from India who’s been on the comedy scene since 2021. Having lived in London since 2019 his comedy tends to include his observations of life in London as an outsider and what he is doing to become an insider.

Check out his winning set here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eA_8ncPPrM

Join the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** Freddie Kemp is the owner of MFS Casting and is a HAC reservist. Follow his work at https://instagram.com/mfs.casting and https://instagram.com/militaryadviserfk

Join the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** Tara Austin leads hybrid behavioural, brand and data science projects for global and UK clients, focused on consumer and citizen behaviour change.  Tara is also Campaign Director for the PAR campaign for Psilocybin Access Rights:  a volunteer organisation which is calling on the government to reschedule psilocybin (the psychoactive compound in “magic mushrooms”) to make it accessible for medical research. This could lead to the development of new therapies and would bring hope to the suffering of millions of people in the UK with conditions that currently have limited and inadequate treatment options. For more information on the potential benefits of psilocybin please see par.global

Join the H-Hour community today on Discord: https://discord.gg/ncFRpvTkjX ***** Aron Welsh is a former soldier who, while in an induced coma battling a lethal infection, suffered from an acute onset of intensive care psychosis. He authored a book about his experiences called “Never Really Over”, available at this link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Never-Really-Over-Aron-Welsh-ebook/dp/B097Z2SV6D

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Daz Ryan is the lead singer / songwriter for The Rushmore. Find their album at these links: https://open.spotify.com/album/1CRLbpJtTe8hdzGfIaQE6m https://music.apple.com/gb/album/welcome-to-the-war/897601677