Michael the host gives the guests space and time to reveal some hugely powerful, emotive and at times, harrowing memories in these podcasts. This can, at times, leave some of the episodes a challenging but riveting listen. Despite this, most are stories of redemption, over coming challenge and strength through friendships. I do not find being a ‘civvy’ listener a bar as these themes are universal and the host ensures context when needed. I look forward to hearing more.

Amazing insight into these brave peoples life’s well done all involved keep it up!

Just finished listening to Des Frasers Episode. Its good to listen to other peoples experiences.

Easily relaitable and brought back some of my own memories.

Being from the same town and also serving at the same time.

Keep up the good work.

Will be tuning in listening to missed Episodes.

👍🏻

Episode 50- Des Fraser

Thank you for sharing this story. What a journey Des has been through- he is an inspiration to others. This is going to help so many people in a similar situation.

Episode 1- Really opened my eyes listening to this podcast. Speaking as someone who hasn’t served in the Armed forces, I was shocked to hear Brian Woods story. I was at the point of tears through anger, frustration and sadness at the situation and to hear how he was abandoned by the system. I am glad to hear that despite his tough journey the past 14 years, he has come through a stronger and better person for it. Thank you for sharing!

Episode 4 -

This one is a MUST listen. I learnt a lot about how the mind works, very well explained by Walter Busuttil in layman’s terms 🧠

This podcast is one of a kind there’s nothing out there like this it’s second to none.

Was so nice I had to listen twice ✌🏼

As if the podcast couldn’t get any better, then you go and have Mike and Des, two good friends discussing openly and candidly issues throughout Des’ upbringing. Knowing Des Fraser and what he’s like now, I was quite literally sat there moved to the core and tearing up listening to how he’s faced so much adversity in his life and come out the other side such a positive, selfless and inspiring individual.

Credit to Mike and his line of questioning to get the absolute best responses from some very harrowing situations. For me, hearing how Des has searched out for help is such a brave thing to do, but even more inspiring to get out there and talk about it on this type of platform and I hope that his words and experiences resonate to help anyone else in a similar situation.

Well done fellas, keep up the amazing work!!

Listened to the 1st episode Brian Wood, absolutely superb. Going to buy his book now, really intrigued in hearing more about him. Can’t wait to listen to the next episodes.

Just listened to Des Fraser, hard listening to a friend go through pain and difficulty. So inspiring that he’s turning it into positivity. Him and Michael are a great partnership. Keep it up boys.

Having known Des for a few years and someone I call a close friend it was hard to hear of his childhood. That said, it was this upbringing that has moulded him into the knowledgeable and generous man he is today.

I found the jumping out of planes bit interesting and something I see in nearly all ex military personnel. Some people may see these things as thrill seeking, however I think a better name for them would be therapy. Whether it be climbing the highest mountains, diving the deepest depths, or in Des’s case, jumping out of planes, I believe it’s a military trait that remains after leaving the forces. Setting yourself challenges, facing your fears, overcoming them fears and getting a sense of achievement and belonging when completing those goals that ultimately helps with mental health. I am no doctor, but that’s what I think when looking at it.

Des, Mike - Catch you soon for cuppa.

I know Des Fraser but never would of guesed the life hes had. He’s such a possive, honest and inspiring person its hard to see that he’s been through so much.

Great podcast, my other favourits are Sean and Amanda Jones, Cath the cake lady, Glen Houghton and Helen Halliwell.

Fantastic talk between two very good friends Mikey/Des. Very in depth interview of which I knew nothing really about Des Fraser’s past. I served with both guys, more so Des really.

He was there for me when I needed him at the time I was feeling low and depressed, I didn’t know which way to turn. Still in touch today.

He’s been through hard times that’s for sure. However, this has made Des who he is today Loyal Hard working, Down to earth, Warm hearted and Humble. This will be the first podcast I’ve listened to. It’s nice to see and hear people expressing their feelings, it’s good to talk yeah......

One things for sure, I’ll be listening to more. Great job lads.

Listened to this podcast for 6 months now, I’ve never been in the military and if I’m honest probably didn’t have the guts to be, some of the stories featured are nothing short of remarkable each one having its own retrick but still being fascinating. Some that stuck with me are brian wood, terry brazier, jordan wylie and of course david wiseman. Well you can now add Episode 40

Des Fraser to that list what a story from childhood to now the lads an inspiration to his local town. To turn his life around like he has an not be ashamed to say is what the pods message is right through most episodes, don’t be afraid to tell someone if your not ok, these pods prove there’s people out there to help weather your military or not these relate to every day lives an jobs. Keep up the great work boys..

Every time I listen an episode of Declassified, I feel genuinely moved. Each guest tells a personal story which stays with you for a long time. I’m not in the armed forces, but all the episodes still deeply resonate with me, leaving me feeling inspired and motivated. Non more so than Des Fraser’s episode. I was moved to my core with his heartbreaking story. Hearing his strength, resilience and sheer vulnerability, it has made me appreciate every moment of life, and know that it’s okay to speak out if I’m struggling. Well done to Michael Coates for brilliant questions that are delivered with sincere empathy. I can’t recommend the Declassified Podcast enough.

A real eye opening , heart on sleeve interview between two friends. You could honestly sit there and listen all day . It goes to show you that no matter what life throws at you, you can sculpture your own destiny with the decisions you make even if not all of them are good ones! It’s how you react to the not so good decisions and learn from them as Des seems to have done. It goes to show you that even Des who comes across as a tough guy (SF, boxer , rugby , general street fighter) admits he needs help with certain issues in life and opens up to friends , colleagues and family to help him something traditionally people have not done. But by listening himself to other people he has also learnt about other things that have happened earlier in his life that are affecting him to this day.

Tough to listen to but invigorating at same time if that makes sense for what Des has been through in his life .....for me who is somebody who has no military background it is a real eye opener . How these 2 people have channelled what they have learnt and seen in their military career to help in war zone areas ref education and clean water again is an inspiration.

What a Podcast!! Real stories by real hero’s!! What unbelievable, touching and yet incredible stories they have. What makes this podcast more incredible is the goal and vision Michael, Des and all those that are apart of Declassified and Combat Stress are aiming for. Not only have they put their lives on the front line for their country but now giving back. It’s remarkable. They deserve royal recognition. I feel honoured to know Des personally!

Very authentic and insightful share by Des, interviewer is excellent like listening to a therapy session sometimes. Got a real sense of how difficult things got for him and living local to him I identified with a lot of it both personally and culturally. It’s such a relief to me personally to listen to blokes like Des speaking out so honestly about their struggles, it normalises it for others and helps to feel like we aren’t crazy or weird and that a lot of men go through adversity, be it their own negative emotions like pride anger etc or violence, peer pressure. Des is a great example of someone who had the awareness to break free from his conditioning and be willing to work through and sift his pond (love that btw) inspiring and hopeful share thank you for posting it :)

I’ve just listened to episode 40 with Des Fraser, wow, wow, wow. I experienced every single emotion available in a hour & 15 mins whilst listening to his amazing story. Listening to his childhood touched me as mine was very similar and his podcast has helped me in a weird sort of way. Mike the narrator and interviewer is nothing less than amazing and professional, he needs his own radio slot.

Amazing podcast, well done.

Ste Boyce

London

Wow, this has really resonated with me, such an honest interview and really inspiring. Thank you!

A great podcast highlighting mental health and although obviously military based anyone can relate to this .

My wife has suffered with anxiety/ptsd and found it moving and comforting to hear people speak so openly about it .

The Des Fraser one made me stop what I was doing and just listen to his story

Great work keep going with it as you really are helping society as a whole and braking down the stigma of mental health

Loved this, hard hitting but still so positive. You’re right both of you, the injured are the ones helping others now through the podcast. Keep it up.

Second time I have wrote a review on Declassified.

Having known Des Fraser for 17 years and seen him as a talented soldier who fell out of grace with himself and was spiralling out of control because of PTSD I have seen him come out the other side. To be frank I sat with my Mrs on more than one occasion saying how can we help him and agreed we couldn’t he had to help himself which he has done!

Last time I met Des we had been to football in opposite ends, met up after and ended up in a gin bar together reminiscing! Something which would not have been dreamed of years ago!

This open and honest interview he has given with his friend and business partner Mikey should be an inspiration to anyone who listens about how to believe in yourself and proof you can turn things around.

Insightful guests. A host who cares. Highly recommended for those in and out of the military.

So glad I found this podcast. Quite simply brilliant. Many of these interviews stop you dead in your tracks. Michael is superb - a natural, who gets so much out of his subjects effortlessly, without making his own presence dominate. Just listen and you’ll be rewarded. Keep it up MC...

Such an honest and informative podcast from the Military family and those that support them.

Puts humility and humanity to a uniformed service who are often misrepresented and misunderstood

The characters such as JJ, Dave Henson and Jonny Mercer being open and honest about their journeys

It’s a must listen!

MC thanks for creating this

Although I’m not in the military, I have many friends and family who are. I found Declassified podcast on Twitter and has since become one of my favourites! It gives a stirring voice to the military community who share their astonishing stories of bravery, resilience in adversity and growth mindset. Each episode takes you on a journey from laughter to tears to inspiration. All lead by the dulcet Yorkshire tones of Michael Coates who cleverly puts guests and listeners at ease leaving a safe space for what really matters... the open, honest, inspirational stories of our military heroes.

Amazing self reflecting stories form previous service personnel and professionals. Really easy to listen to wether you are serving or you quite simply enjoy listening to inspiring stories as told by our service communities experiences.

Would highly recommend giving them a listen - 👏🏻 Keep them coming Michael!

Well, it is a series of Podcasts around military subjects, but not all war and hung-ho! It is more inspirational that daring deeds, it covers the back stories of a whole host of people you will be familiar with - politicians, presenters, Charity figures and more. Easy listening, funny, poignant and thought provoking. Give it a try - you won’t regret it!

This podcast is hard for me to listen to at many times, and creates distrusting imagery for those of us who know the situations described, bringing back memories of conflicts I’ve seen. I’ve pushed myself to listen to the episodes I can and recommend that other people listen if they can. It’s not just a record of our history but a start point for opening up discussion on topics many would like to avoid.

I was introduced to these Podcasts a while ago- they are are heartwarming, funny, sad. Informative and a whole lot more. The resilience these guys have is amazing and talking about the Mental Health aspects of their lives is a great way to normalise it. Declassified- well done and keep them coming

I found this podcast a little while ago, after reading Brian Wood’s book so thought I’d try this out. It has quickly become my GoToMeeting podcast when I’m out walking the dog. I’m not military but love the stories and insight, particularly any of the storied addressing mental health.

My favourite set was the multi part Dennis Brock pod. His story is amazing and I was hooked for the entire block, listening one after the other.

Michale Coates ask great questions, but also allows the guests to tell their stories in their own time.

A great podcast that you won’t regret listening to!

These podcasts are easy on the ears and resonate with the listener.

Being able to talk about situations help with coming to terms with what is being listened to.

Amazing stories from some truly inspirational individuals. You clearly have the knack of generating conversation and unearthing buried stories from peoples past. Such a breadth of topics to chose from. Keep up the great work Declassified!!

Been listening to these podcasts for a while now and certainly my favourite.

Always fascinating and interesting guests. Michael, the host, is very laid back in his almost unscripted style yet the right questions are asked and full, frank and no punches answers given.

I trust you will listen, not just hear but listen to the words and emotions spoken and maybe this will encourage people to be a little nicer, more patient and open and civil to those around them.

Subscribe now, you will not be disappointed.

Great format with interesting guests.

Respectful, genuine and funny interview documenting the important stories of our service men and women.

Binge listened to the first 20 episodes in my first two days. The only downside is that they are released on a weekly basis (and not more frequently, so I can get my fix)! ☺️👍🏼

Keep up the great work!

Been listening now for a few weeks. Fantastic stories of bravery and courage. You won’t hear this type of thing anywhere else. You will laugh and perhaps she’d a tear or two.

Give it a listen. Don’t blame me if you get hooked though.

Genuine insight into military life. Coatsey interviews very well and makes it easy listening for people across all backgrounds. 100% recommend.

This Pc is absolutely spot on. I forget where I heard about it, but ever sense I have it’s mandatory listening. There are too many stigmas and not enough help for guys who leave service, and hearing stories from seeming super humans about there struggles helps to break down barriers. The more stories we hear about guys who have achieved, but gone through struggles to get there, the better!!!

Keep up the good work team!

Not a military member but saw this on twitter and thought I’d give a go when walking the dogs. Most thoughtful and interesting listen, shows the human strength that these ex service personal have to over come adversity and continue with their lives.

This podcast covers a variety of issues. The interviews are well run, really probing into the detail and getting to the centre of some serious issues! Great effort, please keep up the good work.

Haven't long joined and started listening to this podcast. They are very gripping and informative.

I’m am really enjoying these podcasts and the stories and accounts they are brining to the world

One of the best military podcasts available. Up there with Jocko. Episodes are always engaging and leave you wanting more. Recent few with JJ Chalmers, Cassidy Little and Aldo Kane have been exceptional.

Great listen for non serving and serving personnel! Gives you an insight to all things military wether it is charity work or boots on the ground. Keep up the good work michael!!!

Stubbsy RE

Amazing empathetic talks with people who have given so much, honest moving and always interesting and thought provoking can’t recommend enough

Saw this PC with a few mates names attached. JJ Chalmers and Aldo Kane, both lads I knew in RMR Scotland. Great honest comments from both on service and the Corps. Working my way through some of the others. BZ

Stoopsey

Gripping, heart breaking, funny, moving, enlightening......I could go on. Listened to Episodes 1-8 on first day of subscribing. Cannot recommend this Podcast enough.

I’ve been listening to these podcasts since their inception and I’m still really enjoying them. I’m not from a military background, but the themes and messages transfer into all walks of life.

Plus Coatesy’s voice is like a smoother version of Sean Bean, which is a massive bonus!

These podcasts are absolutely brilliant. They are informative and gripping. They are also useful. Today i have listened to several episodes whilst washing the pots. I also believe they may come in handy for my studies at university, we shall see!! I’ve also been able to listen to them whilst colouring whilst i rest as i have fibromyalgia. I highly recommend them. Thanks for your hard work Michael x

Varied guests and varied stories providing a broad overview of what the British military has been up to over the past couple of decades and what it is doing now.

Only discovered 'Declassified' recently, but what great stories and accounts of war and its impact on not only the heroes fighting in it for us but their families and their support at home and abroad.

Well done Michael Coates, great insight and interviewing skills, keep it coming!