In this episode Heston sits down with Mark Curry, the founder of SAVVY, for a deep dive into the world of sustainable performance and mental wellness. Mark's journey from a commercial lawyer to a passionate advocate for nootropics and adaptogens forms the backdrop for a conversation that touches on crucial aspects of mental and physical health.   Mark introduces us to the realm of nootropics and adaptogens, substances that naturally enhance mental performance and resilience to stress. His personal transformation in a high-stress legal environment led him to explore these ingredients, eventually becoming the "nootropic guy" at his firm. He explains how this journey led to the creation of SAVVY, a brain-boosting drink designed as a healthier alternative to caffeine.   Key discussion points within this episode:  Mark Curry, founder of SAVVY, shares his transformation from a commercial lawyer to a passionate advocate for nootropics and adaptogens. Nootropics and adaptogens, substances that enhance mental performance and resilience to stress, are introduced as key elements in the conversation. The discussion emphasises the importance of sustainable performance over short-term performance boosts. Mark emphasises the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, challenging the idea of separating the two. SAVVY, a brain-boosting drink, is introduced as a healthier alternative to caffeine for mental performance and mental health. The conversation addresses the normalisation of stress and anxiety, particularly in relation to military experiences, and highlights the importance of education on these topics. Tune in to this conversation where Mark has Heston fully captivated for 2 hours. It’s full of facts, laughs and ways to unlock sustainable performance, mental well-being and productive life. Action Items:    Subscribe to this Podcast and follow/share your favourite takeaways on IG - @hestonrussell Check out and give SAVVY a try - head to savvybeverage.com.au     Use the code HESTON Follow @savvybeverages on IG and let Mark know what you think of SAVVY when you try it. Timestamps:    Chapter 1: Introduction to the Podcast Timestamp: 00:00-01:06 Description: The host welcomes the audience back to the Heston Russell Voice of a Veteran podcast and introduces the guest, Mark. Chapter 2: Background and Conversation with Mark Timestamp: 01:06-02:52 Description: The host and Mark discuss their previous conversation and the duration of their conversation. Mark mentions having a long story to share. Chapter 3: Mark's Story Timestamp: 02:52-05:21 Description: Mark begins sharing his story, mentioning court appearances and a new textbook. Chapter 4: Nootropics and Experiences Timestamp: 05:21-12:35 Description: Mark talks about his experience with nootropics and how they have impacted his life. He mentions receiving positive feedback from others. Chapter 5: Body Awareness Timestamp: 12:35-18:55 Description: Stress, Nervous System, emotional Vs physical impact, getting rid of the separation around health and reprogramming our own understandings. Chapter 6: Purpose Realisations Timestamp: 18:55-27:59 Description: Realisation of needing to be the one who makes nootropics available for everyone. Chapter 7: Living with Parents  Timestamp: 27:59-40:52 Description: The privilege that comes with that as an option when you are going to start a business, a safety net that made the world of difference. Chapter 8: Distractions Timestamp: 40:52-49:25 Description: Your body seeks distraction when you want to get to know yourself, introducing discipline and self reflection to understand who you are and what you want to do. Chapter 9: Reality of Business Timestamp: 49:25-01:26:28

Join us for a deep and introspective journey in this special episode of The Heston Russell Voice of a Veteran Podcast. In "From Breakdown to Breakthrough”. - Heston Russell, Scotty Evennett, Sam Asser, and Will Burnett explore the intricate connections between mental health and spirituality while Heston opens up about his personal mental health crash.   In this episode, you'll delve into: The profound impact of trauma on the body and mind. Navigating life's rock bottoms through authenticity and self-reflection. Transformational experiences with therapies like MDMA and psilocybin. Elevated emotional states leading to reactive decisions and behaviours. Cultivating unity and fostering open dialogues in society. Embracing self-care and personal growth. This candid discussion promises Heston’s most vulnerable conversation yet, but an important conversation to have.   Don’t forget:    Subscribe to this Podcast and follow/share your favourite takeaways on IG - @hestonrussell   Action Items:    The Mind Mechanic - Explore The Mind Mechanic website and Instagram (@themind.mechanic) to learn more about Will and the breathwork sessions he offers. If you are interested in working with Will, reach out for a chat. Scotty - Connect with him through Instagram (@scottevennett) - Check out the My Next Op Community to find out more about the community and the courses he offers. Stay connected with the Veteran Games and follow the progress - www.VeteranGames.com & (@veterangames_) Stay updated on Heston Russell's journey and the ABC court case. Follow his social media accounts and website for updates and information on how to support his cause - HestonRussell.com/ABC Incorporate daily grounding rituals and healthy habits into your routine. This can include walking on the beach, practising breathwork, and maintaining social connections. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore new perspectives and approaches to healing and personal growth. Consider the potential benefits of practices like breathwork, mindfulness & self reflection. Develop a sense of accountability and commitment to personal growth and well-being. Recognise the importance of asking for help and seeking support when needed.  Embrace the power of community and connection. Look for opportunities to engage with like-minded individuals and be part of a supportive network. Recognise the importance of community and connection in the healing process.    Time Stamps:   Chapter 1: Introduction Timestamp: 00:06 - 00:52 Description: The host welcomes everyone to the Heston Russell Voice of a Veteran podcast. Chapter 2: Mental Health Journey Timestamp: 01:00 - 02:38 Description: Heston discusses his recent mental crash and the journey of self-discovery he has been on. Chapter 3: Perspectives and Experiences Timestamp: 05:30 - 07:49 Description: Heston seeks to understand the perspectives of others and mentions having experts present for a discussion. Chapter 4: Therapy and Healing Timestamp: 12:41 - 14:40 Description: Heston talks about the therapy process and how it helps bring unresolved issues to light. Chapter 5: Present-Moment Awareness Timestamp: 16:14 - 18:58 Description: Heston reflects on the importance of being present in the moment and the need for feedback and connection. Chapter 6: Trauma and Processing Timestamp: 24:29 - 27:23 Description: The conversation delves into the concept of trauma and its psychological and physical effects. Chapter 7: Sharing Stories and Collaboration Timestamp: 34:42 - 38:56 Description: Heston emphasises the need for veterans to share their stories and collaborate with others. Chapter 8: Blueprint and Slow Progress Timestamp: 41:24 - 44:16 Description: The conversation touches on the challenges of following a blueprint and Heston’s personal journey of discovery. Chapter 9: Global Connections and Censorship Timestamp: 50:31 - 52:53 Description: Heston discusses the potential for global collaboration and the importance of open conve

Here's what happens when Normie Rowe - King of Pop & Vietnam Veteran & Heston Russell - Veteran Games Founder & Special Forces Veteran get together... Veteran Games was born. Have a listen to this 'cheeky' chat about the Origins of the Veteran Games - where the idea originated from and why it's important no matter when, where or why you served.   Follow us on Instagram: @VeteranGames_ And Facebook: @Veteran.Games.Vsf Or watch this interview on youtube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFsNAfX9mFw&t=1s   Ready to get involved with Veteran Games - www.VeteranGames.com

April 22nd 2023 was the official launch of Heston's latest proactive health initiative for Veterans, Veteran Games - check it out: https://veterangames.com/   During the launch Heston speaks with fellow Veteran Nathan Tolman from the Veteran Mentors who were the first team to register for the games and have already commenced training. In this episode they speak to why the Veteran Games is a fantastic initiatives for Veterans to get around, how it has helped with community, connection and motivation.   Have a listen to this short episode and if you are ready to take up the challenge or if you would like to become a sponsor head to - VeteranGames.com  

Heston was interviewed on the Roll of the Punches Podcast with Tiffanee Cook. In this episode they discuss the challenges with identity and purpose post the military, sexuality, suicide, Special Forces and more.  Enjoy this episode. https://hestonrussell.com/

A throwback episode from The YOU project podcast with Craig Harper. I was interviewed on Craig's podcast and wanted to share the episode with you here. We chatted about mindset, motivation, morality and ethics in war, performing under the ultimate pressure, workout routines and more. I really enjoyed this chat and Craig & Tiff's sense of humour and lightness they bring to important conversations. Enjoy the episode. 

Heston welcomes back his podcast for 2023 with a low key conversation with Sam - from the VSF team, about the launch of the Veteran Games.   They discuss: - The purpose of VSF and how the Veteran Games came about.  - The intention and meaning behind the Veteran Games - Why proactive health initiatives are important to us - Why the Veteran Games will have a positive impact on Community, Connection, Purpose, Identity and changing the Veteran 'broken' Narrative   Enjoy the episode and get involved at:  www.VeteranGames.com  Or contact us at www.vsf.org.au Email: hello@vsf.org.au

Speaking with Andy Cullen & Chris Burson about Adam Bandt & Lydia Thorpe's actions and attitudes towards our Australian National Flag.  🇦🇺   Sign the Petition: https://vsf.org.au/adambandt  

Heston Russell, Andy Cullen and Chris Burson discussing the decision for the CDF to stay another 2 years. They dive deep into this subject to bring you the real reflections going on right now.   Join the conversation on Instagram: @hestonrussell

This episode is a live interview that Heston did on the Global Freedom Rally in February 2022. Discussing the motivations of AVP and putting the relevance of Heston’s Special Forces career into politics, more- so putting leadership into politics. They Discuss: The personal lived experience that has led Heston to this point. The Leadership Crisis that cannot keep going The V in AVP Why our politicians should be our elite leaders, but why they are not. The results of the lockdowns, pandemic and leadership failings Revising the delineation of power between our state & federal governments Raising our standards We would love to hear your thoughts on this pragmatic and authentic conversation. In the words of Andy Anderson - “The AVP is here”. Join the AVP - australianvalues.org.au - it’s time to make it happen

Heston & Sam decided to sit down, debunk & discuss the latest ABC & Media smear campaign about his personal life. The ABC has provided an indirect platform to display who Heston is here and now - by being open and honest about decisions in his past. With the belief that the standards you walk past are the standards you set - Heston has ruffled feathers as he has committed to hold people accountable to do the right thing and things got personal. In this episode we discuss; The OnlyFans Account, Trolls and D*ck Pics The Shame Spiral Media Avoiding Accountability and the unfortunate standards of current reporting Living a full life 2020 the worst year of Heston’s life and the greatest personal growth and emotional maturity he gained. Putting himself (and body) on the line to create change Latest Lessons Learnt Thanks for listening and for the full story, show notes head to hestonrussell.com/headlineworthy  To sign the petition go to vsf.org.au/abc

Andrew Pap (Mr Motivation) is back on the podcast, for a new regular addition dubbed “Pappy Hour” - where Heston & Pap will talk about controversial and relevant topics. They believe constructive conversations with sometimes opposing views are missing from the way we relate and have decided to simply get together over Pappy Hour, to have more of them. They kick it off with this episode tackling conversations on:  - Pap’s journey since they last spoke around a year ago - Struggle to become pregnant (Pap & his wife… not Heston) - Breaking the influencer narrative and having an opinion online - COVID - Politics  - The System - Anxiety driven actions and behaviours  Enjoy the episode, this one was just the warm up.   Shownotes  Youtube Share the episode on social media and tag us:  @hestonrussell

Introducing The Heston Russell Podcast - No topic is off limits as Heston embraces authentic and vulnerable conversations the way they should be. Away from the media and public persuasion. In this episode, Heston speaks with Sam and shares more on WHY the podcast has been rebranded. They also discuss and dive into topics including: Values and the importance of values in your life professionally and personally Leadership Unlocking your own values Relationships & Communication Putting people on a pedestal Politics The beginning of The Australian Values Party The Identity Crisis  Looking forward to the next 6 months Enjoy the episode and let us know what you think on Instagram @hestonrussell or hestonrussell.com Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast to get updated on any new releases.

There’s a difference between getting told “you can do it” and actually getting the mental image of yourself in that place. The mindset required to achieve elite levels of high performance, isn’t for the faint hearted. It was just 10 years ago that Heston took the then Prime Minister Julia Gillard over to Afghanistan and today in a slightly different circumstance - they sit down together again and bring a refreshing conversation of authenticity, nostalgia and opportunity.   This podcast was recorded on Friday August 13th 2021. Two days before the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan and the scenes we have since seen in Kabul.    They Discuss: - When Heston met Julia  - When your purpose isn’t for the faint hearted - Growing in confidence - The mindset of the elite - Sense of self and creating boundaries  - Dealing with transition in self isolation  - Focusing on what really matters - Mental Health - Authentic Leadership, support networks and key lessons learnt.   Enjoy this episode.  @hestonrussell www.vsf.org.au https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ https://www.juliagillard.com.au/

Join VOAV team Heston Russell & Sam Asser (on Mumma Russell’s back deck) for a new podcast episode and conversation on creating boundaries - time and space for High Performance.   This episode was inspired by a question sent in from Kimmsy - So thank you for sending in your questions and keep em coming.   In this episode we discuss;   - Ways to stay intrinsically grounded - Importance of creating time & space in service, outside of service and in the corporate workplace - Benefits of living in the now - Setting boundaries and structure  - Pendulum swing of getting to know your authentic self - Trauma boxes, especially navigating the Royal Commission - Mission nesting & leadership   You can also watch along on VOAV YouTube Channel. Send in your questions & suggestions and if you liked the podcast please leave us a review :)    See you next time #Cya @Voice_of_a_veteran

With everything going on in the Veteran community, our team moves fast. The inspiration came on Sunday night to stop, drop and record a podcast on the lounge room floor between event planning and posting pins.  Sam joins Heston on the episode to have your questions answered and to offer you the latest updates on VOAV.   They discuss: Barriers, Blocks & The Definition of Community Testing the Layers of Resilience for Selection Course Listeners Q&A Exposing the weakness of VOAV What’s been happening this week Where to from here Unlocking True Potential for generations to come Bringing hard topics to the surface The Royal Commission Focus in the Veteran Community If you have any burning questions, please send us a message so we can bring them to the show. Please let us know your thoughts and insights from this very real, raw, open conversation - reminding Heston he too is human ;)  Tag us: @voice_of_a_veteran Send us your questions :)  Book Heston for workshops/speaking here.

In this episode Heston is joined by his wing woman and VOAV engine room Sam Asser. They are currently on the road (in a hotel room in Canberra) and decided to discuss the last couple of (chaotic) weeks in VOAV, reflect on ANZAC Day and Sam’s civilian perceptions — Whilst also accidentally diving into a mental fitness session with Heston on identity ruptures and receiving love. They Unpack: - VOAV being on the road for the last couple of weeks- The backlash of letting off some steam- The struggle & helplessness when everything goes quiet- Moral Injury & Resentment in our community- Behind the scenes of Anzac Day- Community, Identity & Purpose- Expectation Vs Accountability- Power of Reflection We would love to hear your reflections from ANZAC Day & what it brought up for you - let us know & tag us @voice_of_a_veteran Enjoy the Episode.

This week we are re-sharing an episode from the Life on the Line Podcast. Heston’s episode with Alex has had some incredible feedback that we wanted to share it with the VOAV community as well. In this episode you get to know Heston, the man behind the media. From where his journey began — the trials, tribulations, achievements and transformations. The times that saw him hit his absolute greatest personally and professionally, and the times that saw him meet his greatest challenges.   They cover ground:  First Impressions The goal to become a commander Service, deployment and transition Expectations and self doubt  Career timelines and the lessons in hindsight Suicide ideation, solving problems & sexuality In the media, purpose & responsibility  If you enjoy this episode, we would love to hear your feedback & insights, share it with a mate and don’t forget to subscribe to the show for more.   Thank you to the team at Life on the Line for allowing us to share this episode.    Tag us: @voice_of_a_veteran Subscribe:  https://podcast.voiceofaveteran.org/

In this episode Heston chats to Dan about his book Courage on Fire.  As a self confessed non-reader of books, Heston finished Courage to Fire within 3 days -  butchering it with a highlighter and page folds in the process. Appreciating every ounce of honesty, authenticity and relatability that it offered. Without giving away all the juicy parts (that you need to go and read for yourself). They dissect some key topics from the book like: Death and facing the unknown From the battlefield to a rooftop pool in vegas - decompression disasters Navigating the loss of a teammate during battle Drawing on the loss of friends as inspiration and purpose to keep going, in the darkest of days after service. The healing powers of the Australian War Memorial The purpose of writing Dan’s book. Enjoy the episode & don't forget to -  1. Grab a copy of his book 2. Leave a 5 star review & comment if you enjoyed this episode 3. Share on social media and tag us @voice_of_a_veteran

This episode demonstrates humility, responsibility and the importance of being your authentic self in service and out. Dan Keighran VC is someone leading the way in representing exactly that. The mateship that keeps him grounded alongside his true desire to effect change, Dan talks openly about the ways he maintains and stays true to being just a normal bloke, committed to helping others.   They dive into topics like:  What was the purpose for service and key mentors in his life Being a normal bloke  Influential impacts through change and transition Responsibility & owning all outcomes - good or bad Normalising high standards and performance The need to invest in yourself Let us know what you think of the episode. Tag Us: @voice_of_a_veteran If you would like to support VOAV Podcast please subscribe & leave a review.