Firstly I would like to thank my friend and expert Alan Brosnan for making this amazing episode happen.

This week, I had the honor of speaking with René Ashford- a VICTOR of years of abuse, René’s mission and mandate is clear - to save lives! Repeated sexual assaults, multiple violent relationships and addictions to drugs and alcohol led René down a dark and lonely path which included multiple suicide attempts, the earliest when she was only 9 years old.

René is now the Australian Ambassador for the National Association of Adult Child Abuse Survivors (NAASCA) and a most amazing human who has gone on to become an inspiring Australian author and Public Speaker who has turned her harrowing experiences of child abuse into a powerful mission to educate and protect others.

René’s story is a powerful reminder that we can all play a part in protecting children and breaking the cycle of abuse. Her book, Battlescars are Beautiful: From Victim To Victory, is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and combat child abuse.

She offers practical advice on child safety, including teaching body boundaries, using correct anatomical terms, and empowering children to say no.

René addresses breaking the silence around abuse, the importance of support networks, and her ongoing work helping others heal.

The episode is a moving call to action for education, transparency, and protecting vulnerable children.

We talked about the topics of

The Power of Transparency: Early Education on Body Safety: Recognising Abuse: Empowering Children: Breaking the Cycle: Practical Actions for Parents and Caregivers: Teaching Body Safety Early: Using Correct Terminology: Respect Consent: Vigilant Parenting.

We mentioned famous personalities in the s space such as former 22 SAS ( Special Air Service ) soldier Big Phil Campion,, Former West Australia Police Officer Kristi McPhee, and former guests on the show world record holder Brooke McIntosh, and Delta Force Commander and Author of “The Common Sense Way” Pete Blaber.

I hope you find this episode as enlightening and inspiring as I did. Let’s continue to have these important conversations and work together to create a safer world for our children.

In her words.. “Survivors are not defined by their experiences, nor are they limited by them. Anyone can rise beyond adversity with the right mindset, and it begins with a decision to do whatever it takes, for as long as it takes.”

Her journey can be discovered and understood in her incredibly powerful and inspiring book which has received rave reviews and is endorsed by mental health professionals, counsellors, war veterans, and law enforcement. René’s story is gripping, raw and profound – and yet another reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome life’s greatest challenges.

🔗 Connect with René on

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rene_ashford01/

Email her direct: renemichele1975@gmail.com

Her book on Amazon : https://amzn.asia/d/i6xOinK

I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.net

And you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com

- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.

100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat

Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZ

LISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3Q

Itunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2

Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76

Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

In this episode - I interview Ali Gilbert, a decorated fitness professional specialising in men’s health and testosterone optimisation for men over 40. 

Closely aligned with the world famous Marek Health -she is the creator of Silverback Coaching - An Elite Concierge Health & Performance System for Men in the top 1% Who Win in Business—and Want the Body to Match.

We talked all things Testosterone optimisation, nutrition and fitness. We discuss the stigmas around testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), debunk myths about prostate cancer and heart risks, and highlight the importance of holistic health—addressing lifestyle, nutrition, and hormone balance.

We also spoke about the upcoming Silverback Summit, a men’s health event fostering education and community. Here a sneak preview what we talked about -

Dr Kirk Parsley's Work

Mark Bell Podcast

Dave Lee

Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women

Boron

Zinc

Pregnenolone

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

Anastrozole

Free Testosterone

SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin)

Aromatase Inhibitors and Oestrogen

Gynecomastia

Blood Testing

PSA Blood Test Myths

Ali’s transparency, authenticity, knowledge level and the way she can get men to open up and meet them where they are at is priceless. She emphasises open conversations about men’s health, the limitations of supplements, and the need for individualised care.

I hope these highlights spark your curiosity and entice you to dive into the full episode. Ali’s journey and insights are truly inspiring, and there’s so much more to explore in our conversation.

🔗 Connect with Ali on

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thealigilbert/

Web - https://ali-gilbert.com/

SilverBack Summit- https://silverbacksummit.com/

I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.net

And you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com

- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.

100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. 

And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat



Links for my former shows are here-


WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZ

LISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3Q

Itunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2




 
Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76

Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

In this episode - I interview Scott Bryson- who spent three decades in law enforcement, from the streets of Charlotte to the White House, in the Secret Service.

He has protected President George Bush on his security detail, been a Member of the CAT ( Counter Assault Team) and worked all aspects of the Secret Service and international assignments.

His core philosophy: service over ego. The “switched-on” mindset—calm under stress, decisive in chaos—matters more than size, rank, or background. Protection is about preparation, vigilance, and routine discipline, not Hollywood heroics.

Today, Scott applies the same lessons in schools, executive protection, and public education. He emphasizes authenticity, integrity, and the power of words to lead and protect. His advice is simple but actionable: build situational awareness, carry tools that work, train realistically, plan for transitions, and never forget that survival—not engagement—is the goal.

Through his podcast Beyond the Service and direct outreach, Scott continues to share hard-earned wisdom, offering a roadmap for resilience, safety, and purposeful living.

This episode with Retired Secret Service Agent Scott Bryson is a must-listen for anyone who values real-world safety, resilience, and actionable wisdom. From high-stakes protective work to everyday life lessons, Scott delivers insights you won’t find anywhere else—practical, honest, and inspiring. Whether you’re in law enforcement, a concerned parent, or just someone who wants to be better prepared, this conversation will leave you smarter, safer, and motivated. Tune in—you won’t want to miss a single moment.

🔗 Connect with Scott on

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottbrysonbts/?hl=en

Web: https://scottbrysonbts.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@scottbrysonbts

I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.net

And you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com

- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.

100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. 

And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat



Links for my former shows are here-


WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZ

LISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3Q

Itunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2




 
Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76

Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

In this episode - I interview British Strength coach Alex Miller, who shares insights from his journey working with Kabuki Strength and Chris Duffin and developing the first ever AI App for strength coaching mechanics.

Alex is a coach, strength scientist, and systems architect whose work combines biomechanics, physiology, and adaptive programming. Drawing on models of fatigue from Noakes, Marcora, and Enoka, he develops falsifiable, stress-indexed frameworks for training that have been applied to multiple world-record level athletes.

He is the mind behind LiftLab, a platform that unifies neuromechanical profiling, force-vector taxonomy, and autoregulation with real-time data from velocity tracking and pose estimation. He also develops CueUp, an open-source Python engine for automated exercise analysis and program generation. Grounded in critical rationalism, his work treats every prescription as a testable hypothesis, bridging sports science, philosophy, and engineering to advance evidence-driven strength training.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of sleep, simple nutrition, and foundational fitness, while also highlighting the value of critical thinking and continuous learning in the fitness industry. Alex also introduces upcoming educational resources for coaches and athletes - we also spoke about-

Conditioning for First Responders

Physical Preparedness: Mental toughness is crucial, but physical readiness is non-negotiable for roles like firefighters and police officers.

Sustainable Training: Simple, consistent cardio and strength training can significantly improve performance without overwhelming busy schedules.

Lifestyle Factors: Quality sleep and proper nutrition are foundational for enhancing physical capacity and overall well-being.

Skool Platform: A fantastic resource for educational content and community support, spearheaded by World Record Holder Chris Duffin.

Monthly Books: Upcoming releases packed with practical information, like power training for athletes over 40 and innovative uses of blood flow restriction (BFR) training.

I hope these highlights spark your curiosity and entice you to dive into the full episode. Alex’s journey and insights are truly inspiring, and there’s so much more to explore in our conversation.

🔗 Connect with Alex on

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach_alex_liftlab/

Web - https://www.liftlabapp.com/

I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.net

And you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com

- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.

100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. 

And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat



Links for my former shows are here-


WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZ

LISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3Q

Itunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2




 
Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76

Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

Will overcame severe physical injuries and mental health struggles after his service. Will shares his journey from being told he'd be wheelchair-bound by 35 to running across Australia to raise awareness for veteran mental health. 



Will is a veteran, ultra-endurance athlete, father of five, and founder of The Vital Way® — a framework built to recalibrate the nervous system, reclaim health, and awaken true leadership.

He’s run 81 consecutive ultramarathons across Australia setting multiple world records, mentors executives and entrepreneurs on becoming conscious creators, and he is building Forged® — the world’s first clinical reintegration program for Veterans transitioning from military life to the civilian world.


We Speak About What Will Chooses to Perform Best as a Father, Husband, Business Owner, Athlete and Guinness World Record Holder- Spoiler Alert- it’s Stait!

Read THAT story here- https://staitformen.com/blogs/stait-team/what-will-burnett-chooses-to-shows-up-best-as-a-father-husband-business-owner-athlete-and-guiness-world-record-holder

A raw, open and refreshing conversation of both masculine and esoteric- we discussed his unique healing approach, combining breathwork, movement, and alternative therapies, and how he now helps others overcome trauma and get the life they want and deserve.

The conversation covered resilience, the importance of community, and practical strategies for physical and emotional healing.

🔗 Connect with Will on

Email: info@thevitalway.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevitalway_

App: https://the-vital-way.lovable.app/

I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.net

And you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com

- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.

100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. 

And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat



Links for my former shows are here-


WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZ

LISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3Q

Itunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2




 
Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76

Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

In this episode, I interview Zach Naylor, owner of TenetCo Knives and an active law enforcement intelligence officer. Zach discusses how his law enforcement background inspires his mission to create practical, affordable everyday carry tools for ordinary people.

Zach’s unique blend of tactical expertise and creative craftsmanship make for a fascinating conversation you won’t want to miss.

The conversation covers the design and function of his knives and specialist tools, the influence of Japanese and Native American aesthetics, and the importance of situational awareness and mindset in self-defense.

Zach emphasizes empowering citizens with discreet, effective tools and shares insights on balancing creativity with real-world safety needs.


Zach’s unique perspective—shaped by years in corrections, intelligence, and hands-on toolmaking—offers a refreshing, practical approach to everyday carry (EDC) and self-defense.

🔗 Connect with Zach on

Website: https://www.tenetcoknives.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tenetcoknives/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568816627724

I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.net

And you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com

- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.

100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. 

And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat



Links for my former shows are here-


WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZ

LISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3Q

Itunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2




 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76

Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

In this episode I sit down with Simon Carkeek from PracMed, a New Zealand-based company focused on practical first aid training. Simon shares how PracMed’s hands-on, evidence-based approach has saved 127 lives by emphasizing essential skills like bleeding control and airway management. The discussion covers the importance of confidence, real-world scenarios, and mental health support for responders.

Simon also talks about his military background, the company’s high training standards, and their mission to empower people to act decisively in emergencies, both in New Zealand and globally.

In Simon’s words- “"It all began with a vision of a better way.

After spending nearly 7 years working in hostile environments around the globe, I returned home and started working in industry training.

Simon saw firsthand how poor the quality training was in NZ, and how many organisations treat courses as ‘tick-the-box’ exercises only for compliance.

He knew that in order to save more New Zealanders from preventable death, Kiwis needed to be given the knowledge and opportunity for engaging, relevant training.

His goal is to ensure there are more competent and confident responders, and less qualified witnesses.

In 2018, PracMed NZ was born."

🔗 Connect with Simon on

Website: https://pracmednz.com/

L:inkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/pracmednz/?originalSubdomain=nz

YouTube :https://www.youtube.com/@pracmednz

I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.net

And you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com

- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.

100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. 

And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat



Links for my former shows are here-


WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZ

LISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3Q

Itunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2




 
Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76

Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

In this amazing episode, I sit down with Kegan "SMURF" Gill, a former U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter pilot who survived the fastest ejection in naval aviation history — launched from his jet at 695 mph- at 50 G’s.

The injuries he sustained in that moment were severe enough to kill most people — limbs torn apart and a traumatic brain injury among them. But Kegan’s ordeal didn’t end there.

After ejecting, Kegan plunged into the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean, battling hypothermia, sharks and drowning for two hours as rescue teams rushed to find him. Miraculously, his hypothermic state helped prevent fatal blood loss. This was just the beginning of his fight for survival.

We discuss Kegan’s journey through:

-The severe psychotic episodes and dehumanizing treatments he faced after his brain injury.

-His struggle to find proper mental health care, pushing him to eventually seek alternative treatments, including psychedelic therapy and nutraceutical interventions through the Warrior Angels Foundation.

-The critical role of family and support systems in his recovery.

-His advocacy for veterans' mental health and the systemic challenges in the VA system, and how he now dedicates himself to breaking the stigma around mental health care.

Kegan’s story is not just about surviving the unthinkable; it’s about using that survival as fuel to help others. His fight for healing, and his transformation into a public advocate, is an inspiration to anyone overcoming trauma.

🔗 Connect with Kegan on:
🌐 Website: kegangill.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kegansmurfgill/
📘 Book: Phoenix Revival — available now- https://www.amazon.com/Phoenix-Revival-Aftermath-Aviations-Ejection/dp/1964934516
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kegan-gill-6986a4259/

👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode moved you. Because like Kegan says, “ even in your darkest moment, there’s a path forward.”

I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.net

And you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com

- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.

100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. 

And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat



Links for my former shows are here-


WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZ

LISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3Q

Itunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2




 
Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76

Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/