When it comes to foreign policy, sometimes a credible military consequence is required to ensure that diplomacy can work. Keeping peace between nations is vital, however sometimes the decision to move to violence is made by someone else - and then a government has few options on the table. But what happens when our government’s decision to send our military into a war zone under the auspices of protecting our country no longer serves us? Today Osher speaks with Mark Wales, a former SAS commander who’s probably going to surprise you with his views on national security. Mark joined the army at 17 and eventually made ten deployments, including Timor-Leste, Solomon Islands, Iraq, Afghanistan, Fiji and Lebanon. This conversation dives deep on sleep, mental health, gun violence, trauma, parenting, and life in the military. And don’t worry. Osher absolutely asked him about winning Survivor. Mark is not only a fascinating man whose geopolitical knowledge is super-sharp, he’s a fabulous author. He’s penned a best-selling autobiography “Survivor”, and his latest book “Outrider” is a dystopian sci-fi novel set in the woody forests of Victoria. ‌ If you like this episode be sure to check out Osher’s chat with former SEAL team sniper Brandon Tyler Webb, a cracking conversation with fellow Brisbanian Paul De Gelder and for the other side of things, legendary war correspondent Michael Ware. ‌ Every episode ever is available at oshergunsberg.com, where you can also leave Osher a message (even a voice mail) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.