The two ordinary cops are former Northern Territory Police Officers Remote Sergeant Ben Schultz and Detective Sergeant Damien Barbe. With over 25 years experience Ben and Damo share stories from their time in the job. Follow along through the laughter, anger and tears that come with the rigours of Policing Australia’s last frontier.
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Beyond The Call looks at the people behind the occupations we respect and admire, or sometimes take for granted. We look beyond the blood, guts and danger, and look at the whole journeys of people that put their own wellbeing to the test in hundreds of different occupations. Paramedics, Firefighter, Police, Corrections, Mental Health Specialists, Emergency and Intensive medical personnel, Tow Truck Drivers, Teachers, Undertakers.... The list of jobs that cause trauma and harm to participants ...
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Episode 69 – When the Armour Cracks: An Interview with Queensland Paramedic Peter Vinnicombe
1:27:23
1:27:23
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1:27:23In this powerful episode of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy sit down with Queensland paramedic Peter Vinnicombe to explore the deep and lasting impact of frontline trauma. Peter shares his 17-year journey as a single officer paramedic in rural Queensland, culminating in a violent incident that changed his life and career forever. They discuss …
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In Episode 68 of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy don’t hold back as they call out the worst of the worst—cops who broke the law and were rightly arrested and jailed by their own colleagues. From stealing drugs out of seizures to the unforgivable crime of child abuse, they shine a light on those who tarnish the badge. The episode also dives int…
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Episode 67 – The Truth About Cops, Corruption & Integrity
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49:26
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49:26This week, Damo and Schutzy aren’t holding back. They’re diving headfirst into one of the most talked-about—and misunderstood—topics in policing: corruption. Sure, the past has its skeletons, but today’s police are under more scrutiny than ever before. The boys break down the myths, get real about integrity, and share what it’s really like working …
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Episode 66 – People in Crisis: Mental Health Intervention
49:10
49:10
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49:10After throwing out a cheeky challenge to our listeners to either send us love or completely roast us, Damo and Schultzy were stoked to get almost 10 messages – with 4 of them giving us a light-hearted ribbing (we can take it!), and the rest showing solid support for the podcast. But more than that, you legends also sent through some cracking sugges…
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Episode 65 - Coppers, College & Changing Times
38:57
38:57
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38:57In this episode, Damo and Schultzy dive into the evolving landscape of Family and Domestic Violence (FDV) procedures and legislation. With years of frontline experience between them, the boys share how things have changed—what’s working, what’s not, and why Schultzy reckons “You can’t fast track DV.” Schultzy also gives a few well-earned shoutouts …
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Episode 64 - Remote, Resilient, and Married to a Cop
38:22
38:22
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38:22In this episode of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy sit down with Damo’s wife, Emer, to explore what it’s like being married to a cop—especially in remote communities. Rather than focusing on the job itself, they dive into everyday life in these towns, discussing the unique challenges and experiences of police families. What’s it like for partn…
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Episode 63 - Police, Prosecutors & the Courts: Who Decides?
50:25
50:25
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50:25In this episode of Two Ordinary Cops, Schultzy and Damo dive into the complex relationship between police and the courts, unpacking the differences between police bail and court bail. They share real-life stories from the frontline, including what it’s like to be a police prosecutor and the challenges of keeping offenders in custody. With plenty of…
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Episode 62 - Unfit for Duty? The Recruitment Debate
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46:16
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46:16In Episode 62 of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy dive into a critical issue raised by a recruit— the alarming drop in police recruitment standards. As passionate advocates for frontline services and community safety, they discuss how this decline threatens the integrity of policing, endangers officers, and puts the public at risk. With firstha…
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In Episode 61 of the Two Ordinary Cops podcast, Cyclone Alfred, Schultzy and Damo recount their experiences during the landfall of Cyclone Alfred, sharing what unfolded in their respective areas. They discuss the challenges they faced, including some humorous moments, and highlight the dangers of driving through flooded waters. The duo also reflect…
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Episode 60 - Policing Standards, Cyclone Chaos & A Bit of Controversy
45:00
45:00
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45:00In this episode, Schultzie and Damo chat about their weekend catch-up with police mates, give a shout-out to a listener joining Queensland Police, and dive into the controversy around lowering the standards to join the force—sharing some strong opinions on the risks it brings. They also discuss Cyclone Alfred, the chaos of panic buying, and the cha…
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Episode 59 - Cops Under Fire: The Wild World of Police Complaints
55:19
55:19
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55:19In this episode, Schultzy and Damo, the Two Ordinary Cops, dive into the world of complaints against police. While some are incredibly serious, others, in hindsight, are downright hilarious. They break down how the complaint process works, the reasons people make complaints—ranging from genuine grievances to desperate attempts to dodge prosecution—…
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Episode 58 - Flipping Through the Past: The Power of a Cop’s Notebook
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51:35
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51:35In this episode of Two Ordinary Cops, Damo and Schultzy kick off with some well-deserved shout-outs before taking a trip down memory lane, flipping through Damo’s old notebooks and diaries. As they relive past cases, they highlight why good note-taking is a must for any cop—whether it’s for court evidence, recalling key details, or building a solid…
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Beyond The Call with guest Phillip Thompson OAM MP
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53:46
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53:46Phillip Thompson served as a soldier of the Townsville-based First Battalion, Royal Australian Regimen, and was deployed to East Timor and Afghanistan. In 2009 Phillip was wounded in action when an Improvised Explosive Device detonated within one metre of him. The blast resulted in Phillip sustaining severe injuries and he was medically evacuated b…
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Episode 57 - From Bystander to Badge: When Cops Can’t Walk Away
51:27
51:27
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51:27Ever had to call yourself on duty? The Two Ordinary Cops have – and they've got the stories to prove it. From breaking up a fight to dealing with a heated domestic and even facing down an armed offender, they share real moments when they had no choice but to step in. But it’s not just about taking action—it's about doing it smartly. They stress the…
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Episode 56 - Who’s Really in Charge During a Natural Disaster
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46:53
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46:53In this episode, Damo and Schultzy dive into the world of emergency management—what it is, how it works, and why politicians often have little to no say when natural disasters strike. They pull back the curtain on who’s actually running the show when chaos hits and share some of their own experiences from the front lines. Plus, there’s a shoutout t…
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Episode 55 - The Realities of Leadership – Building a Motivated Team
55:33
55:33
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55:33What does it take to create a team that’s motivated, enthusiastic, and ready to get the job done? In this episode, Damo and Schultzy break down the challenges and rewards of leadership—how to inspire your team, keep them engaged, and tackle the tough conversations that come with the role. Being a great leader isn’t always easy. Sometimes, it means …
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Beyond The Call with guest Associate Professor Jaqueline Drew
1:35:32
1:35:32
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1:35:32Dr. Jacqueline Drew, is an associate professor at Griffith University's School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, discussing her extensive work as a police psychologist. Dr. Drew highlights her journey from being an organisational psychologist with the Queensland Police Service to her current roles in academia and consulting for police agencies. …
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Episode 54 - Complacency, Air Wing, and Fishy Pursuits
42:56
42:56
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42:56In this episode, Schultzy and Damo dive into the topic of complacency in policing—how it creeps into the job, its impact on outcomes, and the lessons they've learned along the way. They share their personal journeys, reflecting on times when they went from being vigilant to complacent and then back to being sharp and focused. Of course, there are p…
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Beyond The Call with guest Amy Taylor (Sex Worker)
1:39:41
1:39:41
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1:39:41In this episode of Beyond The Call podcast, I have a conversation with Amy Taylor, an accomplished individual with a diverse background. Amy, who holds a degree in molecular biology and an MBA, has worked in various fields including biotechnology, modelling, and aviation. She is also a high-class escort. Amy shares her life story, discussing her up…
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In this episode, Schultzy and Damo kick off with shout-outs and current events before discussing a facility created to support Emergency Services personnel with PTSD. They then dive into the main topic, "Assault Police," exploring the levels of force that can be lawfully used, including how it depends on factors like size disparity. They also share…
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In this episode of Two Ordinary Cops, the hosts take listeners into the fascinating and high-stakes world of police negotiations. Damo shares insights into the specialised training police receive for these critical situations, highlighting key strategies and techniques used to de-escalate conflicts and reach resolutions. Drawing from his own experi…
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Beyond The Call with Former NRL Referee Matt Checchin
1:29:37
1:29:37
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1:29:37Matt Checchin is a former NRL Referee, who officiated in over 570 games, and for over 20 years, retiring in 2021. He has refereed in 3 Grand Finals, 4 State of Origins, 13 Internationals, and made his first grade debut in 2001. In this episode of Beyond The Call Podcast, The conversation delves into Matt's upbringing, education, and early interest …
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Episode 51 - Interview with Sergeant Adam Swift
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38:00
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38:00In this episode, the Two Ordinary Cops chat with Sergeant Adam Swift, who serves as both an instructor at the police college and the Vice President of the Northern Territory Police Association. Adam shares his journey into policing, some humorous anecdotes, and his experiences during his career in the force.…
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Episode 50 - Answering the Call to Police Service
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41:48
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41:48In this episode, the Two Ordinary Cops share their journey into the Northern Territory Police Force, discussing what motivated them to join and the experiences that shaped their decision. They reflect on their stories, from childhood through to their time in the force, explaining why they eventually left. They also explore the valuable skills they …
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Beyond The Call with Paramedic Nich Woolf Part 3 of 3
1:05:27
1:05:27
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1:05:27In this final part of my conversation with Nich Woolf, a highly experienced paramedic. Nich shares stories from his career, including a harrowing incident with a man on fire and his transformative experiences in Afghanistan, where he provided crucial medical training. He discusses the emotional toll of the job, the camaraderie among first responder…
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Episode 49 - Interview with Commander Kylie Anderson
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37:18
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37:18In this episode, the Two Ordinary Cops had the pleasure of interviewing Kylie Anderson, whose remarkable career and experiences as a woman in the police force make her an inspiration for young women considering or starting a career in law enforcement. Kylie shares valuable insights, not only about her journey as a female officer but also about the …
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Damo and Schultzy present their second Q&A episode for the Two Ordinary Cops podcast, beginning on a sombre note as they share the sad news of a friend’s passing over Christmas. They then offer their perspectives on addressing youth crime, followed by a discussion about poor behaviour from transport or traffic officers. The conversation shifts to a…
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Beyond The Call with Paramedic Nich Woolf Part 2 of 3
44:36
44:36
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44:36In this episode of the Beyond The Call podcast, Peter welcomes back Nich, a paramedic who began his career in Somerset, England, and volunteered at the Glastonbury Music Festival. The conversation covers Nich's experiences during the early 1990s, including his work with the Avon Ambulance in Bristol and his involvement in developing motorcycle ambu…
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Episode 47 - Interview with Nathan Finn NT Police Association
44:03
44:03
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44:03In this episode, the Two Ordinary Cops sit down with Nathan Finn, the president of the Northern Territory Police Association, for an engaging and insightful chat. Nathan shares the story of his remarkable career, from his early days on the beat to his rise as a passionate advocate for his fellow officers. Along the way, he recounts some nail-biting…
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Episode 46 - A Northern Territory Journey and the Ben Hoffmann Standoff
59:05
59:05
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59:05In this episode, we wrap up our Northern Territory trip and share some of your messages and feedback. Damo also opens up about his role in the 2019 Darwin active shooter incident involving Ben Hoffmann. He shares gripping behind-the-scenes details of the response, offering a rare glimpse into the intensity and challenges of that day. It’s a mix of …
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Beyond The Call with Paramedic Nich Woolf Part 1 of 3
40:39
40:39
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40:39Nich Woolf has fit more into his life than many of us would fit into 6. A Paramedic for over 50 years, and heavily involved in Festival Medical Charity work, as well as countless trips to Afghanistan assisting with Medical Services, and teaching literally thousands of people to do Emergency First Aid. He has been awarded the British Empire Medal (B…
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The two ordinary cops are back where it all began travelling to Darwin and Katherine to catch up with old friends and have a laugh. Standby to some great conversations with the men and women who do the job.By benschultz
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Beyond The Call with guest Paediatric Intensive Care Unit Nurse Practitioner Adam Yazbeck
1:04:52
1:04:52
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1:04:52In this episode of Beyond The Call podcast, Peter continues the discussion with Adam, a pediatric intensive care nurse and nurse practitioner from Colorado. They delve into the intricate and often emotionally charged topics surrounding organ donation, both the procedural aspects and the ethical dilemmas involved. Adam shares insights about the orga…
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Episode 44 - "Crossing the Line: Policing NT's Borders and Beyond"
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47:27
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47:27In this episode of Crossing the Line, we delve into the unique challenges of policing across state and territory boundaries from the perspective of the Northern Territory Police. From tracking offenders fleeing interstate to executing extradition warrants, this episode uncovers the critical coordination required between jurisdictions to ensure just…
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Beyond The Call with PICU Nurse Practitioner Adam Yazbeck part 1 of 2
58:10
58:10
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58:10In part 1 of this episode of Beyond the Call, Peter talks to Adam, a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) nurse from the USA. Adam shares his journey from a creative childhood in Minnesota, through a career in theatre, to his current role in nursing. Emphasizing the importance of human connection, Adam discusses the challenges and rewards of workin…
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Episode 43 - First on Scene: First Aid in the Force
47:31
47:31
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47:31In this episode, we dive into the world of first aid on the front line. From assisting paramedics to managing critical injuries, we share real-life stories from our time in the police force. We also explore the unique responsibilities officers face in these high-pressure situations, balancing medical aid, securing the scene, and supporting everyone…
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Beyond The Call with guest Lori Hodges (Emergency Management) Part 2 of 2
47:12
47:12
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47:12This episode of the Beyond the Call podcast continues a conversation with Lori Hodges, an Emergency Management leader from Colorado, USA. The episode delves into her experiences dealing with back-to-back hurricanes in Florida, detailing the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) and her role within Incident Management Teams. Lori discusses …
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In this compelling discussion, The Two Ordinary Cops delve into one of the most challenging topics society faces: suicide. They explore the profound ways it impacts individuals, families, and communities, offering insights drawn from their unique perspective on the front lines. From the emotional toll on loved ones to the intricate process of inves…
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Beyond The Call with Guest Lori Hodges (Emergency Management) Part 1 of 2
53:44
53:44
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53:44In this episode of Beyond The Call, host Peter interviews Lori Hodges, an Emergency Management Leader with a background in paramedicine and firefighting. Lori discusses her upbringing in rural Colorado, her early involvement with the Civil Air Patrol, and her transition into emergency services after helping a woman at a Grateful Dead concert. She s…
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In this episode, Schultzy and Damo dive into the wild world of unusual jobs they've tackled over the years, from a spooky gig involving a ghost to an unexpected encounter with women's underwear! They’ll share stories of the strange, the hilarious, and the downright bizarre. Expect plenty of laughs, some surprising shoutouts, and a few tall tales yo…
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Captain Matt Frost (Retired) Former Army Pilot Part 6 (Final)
33:03
33:03
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33:03Captain Matt Frost (Retired) is a former helicopter pilot with The Australian Army. Diagnosed later in life with Autism and ADHD, This is a journey everyone needs to hear. In this 6 part series, we talk to Matt about his journey from childhood to the Army, and the toll the journey took. Episode 6 - In this final episode of our conversation with Mat…
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In this episode, Damo and Schultzy dive into the fascinating world of prisoner escorts, exploring how police procedures have evolved over the years. They’ll take you from early vehicle convoys to high-stakes air transport with the police airwing, sharing captivating stories from their experiences along the way. Tune in for behind-the-scenes insight…
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Captain Matt Frost (Retired) Former Army Pilot Part 5
36:09
36:09
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36:09Captain Matt Frost (Retired) is a former helicopter pilot with The Australian Army. Diagnosed later in life with Autism and ADHD, This is a journey everyone needs to hear. In this 6 part series, we talk to Matt about his journey from childhood to the Army, and the toll the journey took. Episode 5 discusses the process of Medical Retirement, and Mat…
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Schultzy and Damo explore the spectrum of drug use in the Northern Territory, from the everyday to the more extreme, across a variety of settings. They delve into substances that might fly under the radar, like Kava, and discuss its unique impact on certain communities. Along the way, they share a mix of captivating and chilling stories about their…
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Captain Matt Frost (Retired) Former Army Pilot Part 4
31:39
31:39
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31:39Captain Matt Frost (Retired) is a former helicopter pilot with The Australian Army. Diagnosed later in life with Autism and ADHD, This is a journey everyone needs to hear. In this 6 part series, we talk to Matt about his journey from childhood to the Army, and the toll the journey took. Episode 4 discusses the fallout and harm of the ongoing issues…
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Schultzy and Damo explore the wide range of career opportunities available within the police force. These include roles in crime scene investigation, forensic analysis, general duties, and specialized positions within tactical teams.By benschultz
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Captain Matt Frost (retired) Former Army Pilot Part 3
34:18
34:18
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34:18Captain Matt Frost (Retired) is a former helicopter pilot with The Australian Army. Diagnosed later in life with Autism and ADHD, This is a journey everyone needs to hear. In this 6 part series, we talk to Matt about his journey from childhood to the Army, and the toll the journey took. Episode 3 continues our conversation about Matts deployment to…
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Episode 37 - Women in Policing / Work, Life Balance
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41:59
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41:59In this episode, Damo and Schultzy discuss the role of women in the police force, highlighting their impact, strengths, and contributions toward equality. They also give a few shout-outs and explore topics like work-life balance and advice for those considering joining the police later in life.By benschultz
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Captain Matt Frost (Retired) Former Army Pilot Part 2
36:14
36:14
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36:14Captain Matt Frost (Retired) is a former helicopter pilot with The Australian Army. Diagnosed later in life with Autism and ADHD, This is a journey everyone needs to hear. In this 6 part series, we talk to Matt about his journey from childhood to the Army, and the toll the journey took. Episode 2 introduces us to Matts early training and qualifying…
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In today's episode, Schultzy and Damo explore how frontline personnel relate to everyday people in society. They discuss the unique experiences and challenges faced by those working on the front lines, offering insights that anyone who has been in these roles will understand. Through conversation and a few personal stories, they shed light on what …
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