The Old Paratrooper Podcast

"The Question I Get Asked More Than Any Other..."

As you can imagine, over the years I've been asked all sorts of questions. Some about the military, some about firefighting, and plenty about life after both. This particular question seems to come up more than most, so I thought I'd share my thoughts on it. I'm not saying I'm right, and everyone's situation is different, but it's a question I've been asked countless times and this is my honest take based on my own experiences.

Simon Weston: Burned in War, Rebuilt Through Purpose, this episode will definitely divide opinions

Simon Weston is one of Britain's most recognised veterans and an enduring symbol of resilience, courage and determination.A former Welsh Guardsman, Simon was serving aboard the RFA Sir Galahad during the Falklands War when the ship was attacked, leaving him with severe burn injuries. Following years of surgeries, rehabilitation and personal challenges, he rebuilt his life and became one of the UK's most respected public speakers, authors and mental health advocates.In this episode, Simon shares his experiences of military service, the realities of the Falklands conflict, his long road to recovery, and the lessons he has learned about resilience, purpose and the power of a positive mindset. This is an honest and inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, finding meaning after trauma and refusing to let life's toughest moments define who you are.A powerful story of service, sacrifice and the strength of the human spirit.Interested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below.https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuieEx British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation.https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch#veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #royalmarinecommando #motivation #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness #welshguards

Government Shake-Up, Northern Ireland Unrest & The Power of Networking Sunday with Simon Western.

Two government resignations have sent shockwaves through Westminster, tensions continue to rise in Northern Ireland, and we take a look at the real power of networking and how the right connections can change the course of your life and career.We also discuss the latest ultra-endurance challenge on the horizon and ask the question: Which ultra is next?Tune in for sundays controversial podcast with falklands veteran Simon Western.Interested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below.https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuieEx British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation.https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch#veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #royalmarinecommando #motivation #love #funny #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness

7,700 Miles of Purpose: Jason Holbrook's Coastal Challenge

Jason Holbrook is undertaking an extraordinary challenge — spending more than two years walking the entire coastline of the United Kingdom.But this journey is about far more than miles covered and maps completed.Driven by personal experiences and a desire to make a difference, Jason is raising funds for six charities close to his heart while using his journey to shine a light on the realities of mental health struggles.Every step is a reminder that life isn't always easy, that many people fight battles nobody can see, and that speaking out is never a sign of weakness.Through the highs, the lows, the isolation and the determination required to keep moving forward, Jason is proving that sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simply take the next step.A remarkable challenge. An important message. One man walking thousands of miles to make a difference.Donate on the link belowhttps://gvwhl.com/TYRDLInterested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below.https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuieEx British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation.https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch#veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #royalmarinecommando #motivation #love #funny #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness

PTSD Awareness Month: Chris Oldfield Combat to Recovery: A Royal Engineer's Story

The guest on this episode is Chris Oldfield, a former Royal Engineer whose military career took him to some of the world's most volatile conflict zones. Serving on operational tours in Iraq (x2), Afghanistan, Kosovo, Northern Ireland and the Falkland Islands, Chris experienced the realities of modern warfare first-hand, operating under the constant threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) while witnessing significant casualties and the devastating impact of conflict. In this powerful and honest conversation, Chris opens up about the psychological toll of service, his battle with PTSD, and the long road to recovery. Now living in Finland, he uses his experiences to educate students about trauma, resilience, and the true human cost of war, ensuring future generations understand the realities behind the headlines. This is a raw and thought-provoking discussion about service, sacrifice, survival, and finding purpose after conflict.