Host Simon Carkeek uncovers exceptional and unique experiences, in this NZ made podcast. Stories of overcoming obstacles, mitigating problems and sometimes simply rolling the sleeves up, gritting your teeth and getting on with the job in some of the most hectic situations around the world.
Many podcasts begin as chest-beating war-story fests (don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of those), but for us, there’s a method to the madness and our purpose is three fold.
To share accounts and perspectives of the past, present and future those involved in dodging the coffin.
To record untold perspectives of historical events, for learning and reflection.
To give hope to those who feel hopeless via parallel or non parallel relatable experiences.
The world can be and is a hard and harsh place and there is a lot of evil, and this podcast will take you on an an emotional rollercoaster. Some will come with distressing content warnings - we make no apologies for this. Coffin Dodgers is a purpose driven tool to help mitigate and overcome that evil.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Host Simon Carkeek uncovers exceptional and unique experiences, in this NZ made podcast. Stories of overcoming obstacles, mitigating problems and sometimes simply rolling the sleeves up, gritting your teeth and getting on with the job in some of the most hectic situations around the world.
Many podcasts begin as chest-beating war-story fests (don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of those), but for us, there’s a method to the madness and our purpose is three fold.
To share accounts and perspectives of the past, present and future those involved in dodging the coffin.
To record untold perspectives of historical events, for learning and reflection.
To give hope to those who feel hopeless via parallel or non parallel relatable experiences.
The world can be and is a hard and harsh place and there is a lot of evil, and this podcast will take you on an an emotional rollercoaster. Some will come with distressing content warnings - we make no apologies for this. Coffin Dodgers is a purpose driven tool to help mitigate and overcome that evil.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Combat Medic to Civilian Educator
This episode of Coffin Dodger's features Steve O, a former combat medic with extensive experience in both military and civilian medical fields. Steve shares his journey from childhood in New Zealand, through his military service in East Timor and Afghanistan, to working as a contractor in Somalia. Highlighting critical incidents like a massive 400-plus casualty event, Steve details the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, finding new tribes and purpose in education and sports. Join Steve as he discusses the importance of team culture, mental health, and his commitment to improving emergency medical training.
01:08 Introducing Steve O
01:36 Childhood
15:27 Joining the Army
21:12 Army Medic Training
35:07 Surgical Mishaps & Smells
37:18 Field Hospital Realities
40:11 Bizarre Military Exercises
53:02 Deployment Stories: East Timor & Afghanistan
01:09:09 PDT Training and Initial Incidents
01:12:22 Leaving the Military
01:14:30 Transition to Nursing
01:22:37 First Experiences in Somalia
01:25:10 Navigating Chaos in Mogadishu
01:36:50 First Gunshot Wound and Realisations
01:41:58 IED Threats & Road Hazards
01:43:34 FOB Security Concerns
01:47:11 Mass Casualty Incident in Mogadishu
01:57:31 Combat Fatigue and Harassment Fire
01:58:37 First KIA Encounter
02:03:10 Ammo State Black: A Desperate Situation
02:18:14 Reflecting on the Mission
02:28:55 COVID & Deployment Challenges
02:31:45 Transitioning Back to Civilian Life
02:36:01 Finding New Purpose and Brotherhood
02:45:40 Final Thoughts and Shoutouts
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.