Welcome to the Modern Warrior Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with John Connors, a multi-talented actor, writer, and filmmaker, to explore his journey from the challenges of growing up in a marginalized community to becoming an award-winning artist. John opens up about his battles with mental health, his creative process, and the role of faith and resilience in overcoming personal and societal struggles. This is a powerful conversation about turning pain into purpose and redefining what it means to be a modern warrior.

• John’s Early Life and Challenges:
  • Grew up in a Traveler community, facing systemic discrimination and societal prejudice.
  • Experienced significant personal trauma, including the loss of his father to suicide and his mother to cancer.
• Struggles with Mental Health:
  • Openly discusses his battles with depression, grief, and suicidal thoughts, especially after his mother’s passing.
  • Shares how trauma has shaped his life but emphasizes the importance of confronting and managing it.
• Turning to Creativity:
  • Found solace in art, acting, and filmmaking as outlets for expression and healing.
  • Highlights the therapeutic power of creativity in navigating life’s darkest moments.
• The Role of Faith and Spirituality:
  • Talks about the comfort and clarity faith has brought him, especially during periods of loss and uncertainty.
  • Reflects on the importance of spirituality in finding meaning and purpose.
• Critique of Society and the Arts:
  • Discusses systemic issues within the arts industry and broader societal challenges, including inequality and censorship.
  • Emphasizes the need for honesty, integrity, and meritocracy in all fields.
• The Power of Resilience:
  • Advocates for using adversity as fuel to persevere and grow.
  • Credits his strong moral foundation and unwavering belief in equality for guiding his journey.
• Message of Hope and Action:
  • Encourages listeners to confront their struggles, seek connection, and create meaningful change.
  • Stresses the importance of finding strength in vulnerability and purpose in pain.

I had the privilege of speaking with Zak Moradi, a Kurdish-Irish sportsman and author of Life Begins in Leitrim. Zak shares his incredible journey from being born in a refugee camp in Iraq to finding a new life and identity in Ireland. We dive deep into the resilience of the human spirit, the power of sports to create community, and Zak's unique perspective on belonging connection, and cultural identity. This conversation is a moving testament to finding strength through adversity and the importance of staying true to your roots while embracing new beginnings.

Zak’s Early Life in a Refugee Camp:

• Born in Ramadi, Iraq, Zak spent the first 11 years of his life in a refugee camp.
• Describes the camp as an “open prison,” where life was marked by discipline, hardship, and an unbreakable sense of community.

Cultural Challenges and Hardships:

• Reflects on life under dictatorship and the struggles faced as a Kurdish minority.
• Recalls moments of unity despite harsh living conditions, such as barefoot soccer games with 30 kids.

Arrival in Ireland:

• Moved to Leitrim at 11 years old after a decade on a UN waiting list.
• Faced cultural shock: adjusting to the language, weather, and Irish society.

Integration Through Sports:

• Found connection and belonging through sports, particularly Gaelic games.
• Credits the GAA for building friendships and helping him integrate into Irish life.

Reflections on Refugees and Belonging:

• Discusses the challenges refugees face globally and highlights the value of welcoming communities.
• Shares insights on discrimination, double standards, and the importance of education in combating misinformation.

Life as an Author and Filmmaker:

• Talks about his book, Life Begins in Leitrim, which captures his journey and cultural experiences.
• Introduces his upcoming documentary, Home, which explores his return to Iraq and reflects on his refugee experience.

The Power of Community:

• Emphasizes the role of sports and connection in creating a sense of belonging.
• Shares his belief in unity and dialogue as the foundation for overcoming differences and building a better future.

I had the privilege of sitting down with Drago, a man whose life story is a testament to human endurance and the power of resilience. Born in communist Poland, Drago grew up in a world of oppression, scarcity, and censorship. His father, a high-ranking communist official, and his mother, a devout Christian, created a stark contrast in his upbringing, shaping his early perceptions of strength, defiance, and morality.

Drago shared harrowing tales of his childhood, where survival often meant using unconventional means to navigate a world of extreme poverty. He described the systemic corruption and brutality of the socialist regime, recounting how it silenced dissent and punished nonconformity. His mother’s involvement in the Solidarity movement inspired Drago to take a stand, eventually leading to his arrest and imprisonment for distributing anti-government literature.

Despite the odds, Drago found a way out. Granted political asylum in the United States, he embraced his newfound freedom with gratitude and determination. Starting as a janitor, he built a life of purpose and meaning, supported by the kindness of strangers who welcomed him to America.

Driven by a deep sense of duty, Drago joined the U.S. Navy during the Persian Gulf War, eventually becoming a Navy SEAL. He spoke of the rigorous training, the camaraderie of his fellow SEALs, and the profound sense of belonging he found in serving his adopted country. His experiences in combat, particularly alongside Polish special forces, highlighted the importance of collaboration, respect, and shared values.

Now retired, Drago continues to honour the sacrifices of those who fight for freedom. His story is about overcoming adversity and the enduring fight for liberty, and the human spirit’s ability to thrive against all odds.

Drago’s journey from oppression to freedom and his unwavering commitment to justice and honour is a powerful reminder of what it means to live as a modern warrior. This conversation inspired me, and I know it will do the same for you.

Episode Summary

• Drago's Early Life in Communist Poland:
  • Grew up under an oppressive socialist regime marked by poverty, censorship, and corruption.
  • Father was a high-ranking communist official; mother was a devout Christian, creating a conflicting environment.
  • Learned resilience and resourcefulness through challenging childhood circumstances.
• Experiences of Poverty and Oppression:
  • Faced hunger, scarcity, and the stigma of being from a divorced family.
  • Witnessed and endured the brutality of the socialist system, including political persecution.
• Activism and Imprisonment:
  • Inspired by his mother’s involvement in the Solidarity movement, Drago began opposing the regime.
  • Arrested for distributing anti-government literature and sentenced to three years in a political prison.
• Escape to Freedom:
  • Granted political asylum in the United States, leaving behind a life of oppression.
  • Began life anew as a janitor, supported by the kindness and generosity of Americans.
• Joining the U.S. Military:
  • Enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the Persian Gulf War out of gratitude and a desire to serve.
  • Overcame challenges, including age and physical setbacks, to become a Navy SEAL.
• Life as a Navy SEAL:
  • Spent 20 years in service, including missions with Polish special forces, earning respect for their skill and teamwork.
  • Highlighted the values of camaraderie, perseverance, and a commitment to freedom.
• Reflections on Freedom and Legacy:
  • Expressed deep appreciation for America as a beacon of freedom and opportunity.
  • Continues to share his story to inspire others to stand against oppression and fight for liberty.
• Key Takeaway:
  • Drago’s journey exemplifies the power of resilience, the importance of freedom, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Colman Power is a passionate advocate for organic living, fitness, and self-sufficiency. As the author of The Power of Organic Fitness, Colman has dedicated his life to helping people reconnect with nature, grow their own food, and embrace a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Through his work, Colman inspires others to cultivate physical, mental, and emotional resilience.

Podcast Summary

• "In this episode, I sit down with Colman Power, a man whose energy, passion, and depth of knowledge about health and fitness are truly inspiring."
• "Colman takes us on his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leader in organic farming, fitness, and personal development."
• "We explore the importance of growing your own food, the health benefits of organic produce, and how reconnecting with the land can transform your physical and mental well-being."
• "Colman opens up about the challenges he faced in his early life, including dyslexia and navigating personal relationships, and how these experiences shaped his drive and resilience."
• "We discuss the modern disconnect from nature and how simple steps—like grounding, eating whole foods, and growing your own vegetables—can radically improve your life."
• "Colman shares powerful insights into the link between nutrition and mental health, including the impact of magnesium and fiber on stress and happiness."
• "Finally, we touch on his mission to educate and inspire people to take control of their health, one small step at a time, proving that anyone can live a more vibrant, fulfilling life."

Travis, a well-known voice in the personal growth space, hosts the podcast Travis Makes Friends where he explores human connection, resilience, and the challenges of modern life. Known for his deep conversations and candid approach, Travis brings a refreshing perspective to topics that often go unspoken, from facing mortality to the realities of masculinity today.

Podcast Summary:

• "In this episode, I’m honored to finally bring Travis onto Modern Warrior, a conversation long in the making."
• "Travis shares a deeply personal story about his battle with cancer and what it taught him about life, mortality, and the importance of meaningful connections."
• "We talk about how facing death changes your perspective, urging us to reflect on how we’re truly living and whether our pursuits are aligned with our purpose."
• "Travis dives into Stoicism and the power of contemplating one’s mortality, finding wisdom in facing life’s darkest places."
• "We address the epidemic of loneliness, especially among men, and discuss the societal pressures that contribute to this growing issue."
• "Travis offers insights into healthy masculinity, challenging toxic narratives while promoting vulnerability and self-acceptance as strengths."
• "Together, we explore how embracing solitude and connecting deeply with ourselves can be a powerful antidote to loneliness and a way to build richer, more authentic relationships."

Gerry Hussey is a celebrated performance psychologist and author known for his transformative work in mental and emotional well-being. With a career dedicated to helping people unlock their potential, Gerry has guided elite athletes, professionals, and individuals seeking a deeper, more authentic life. His insights into resilience, personal empowerment, and holistic health have made him a trusted voice in wellness and performance psychology.

Podcast Summary in Gavin Meenan's Voice:

• "In this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Gerry Hussey, who brings incredible insights into what it means to truly awaken to our potential."
• "We dive deep into Gerry’s journey, from his early struggles with anxiety to his powerful transformation into one of Ireland’s leading voices in personal empowerment."
• "Gerry shares how we can reconnect with our inner strength by breaking free from societal pressures and tuning into our own needs and values."
• "We discuss the importance of physical movement in healing, viewing exercise as more than just fitness—it’s a way to process emotions and find balance."
• "Gerry talks about the ‘modern warrior’ mindset, urging us to stop looking outward for validation and to ask ourselves what truly brings us joy and fulfillment."
• "In this conversation, we unpack the barriers many men face today, from feeling societal pressure to staying in roles that don’t align with their authentic selves."
• "Gerry’s message is a powerful reminder to all of us: take ownership of your life, let go of expectations, and make the courageous choice to live in truth."

I sit down with ex-NFL Eben Britton, a true embodiment of resilience and modern warrior spirit. We discuss overcoming setbacks, personal growth, and the journey to living a purposeful life. This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength required to pause, reflect, and return stronger.

Podcast Revival: "After taking a three-month break, I’m excited to be back, kicking off this new chapter of the Modern Warrior podcast with an exceptional guest."

Introducing Eben: "Today, I’m honoured to have Eben here. He’s not just a guest; he’s the embodiment of what it means to be a true modern warrior."

Overcoming Challenges: "We dive into Eben’s story and the many challenges he’s faced recently, each one shaping his journey and strength."

Modern Warrior Philosophy: "We talk about what it truly means to be a ‘modern warrior’—how we can apply resilience and courage to every part of our lives."

Life Reinvention and Purpose: "Eben opens up about his path toward finding purpose, showing us all how reinvention is possible even after life’s hardest setbacks."

Reflection and Resilience: "In our conversation, we explore the power of taking a step back to reflect and how that makes us come back even stronger."

Future Vision and Goals: "Eben shares his goals and vision for the future, fueled by his warrior mindset and determination to keep growing and evolving."

Insta: @edsbritton

Ger Redmond is an Irish Professional Triathlete who has had a colourful journey to where he is today. The multiple IRONMAN has had a life filled with highs, lows, and a host of twists and turns, including a two-year term in Mountjoy prison. He turned to a life of criminality after seeing his dream of becoming a professional footballer cruelly ended.

After serving time in prison, Ger has reinvented his life as a triathlete, focusing on inspiring his children and young people in his area by setting up Coolock Running Club, Another Way 5k, and much, much more.

For more on Ger, check out his

Website: https://gerredmond.com/

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