H-Hour

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir Adnan Sarwar and I delve into the heart of modern Britain, exploring the causes and impacts of social unrest, the nuances of immigration, and the evolving concept of British identity. Adnan shares his firsthand experiences from recent protests around the country, offers a historical perspective on multiculturalism, and discusses his military background. The discussion also covers contemporary issues such as Digital IDs and the balance of morality within the military. This episode is a thought-provoking journey into the current state of Britain and the historical forces that have shaped it. https://www.adnansarwar.com https://substack.com/@adnansarwar https://www.instagram.com/adnansarwarphotos Adnan Sarwar served with the Royal Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit (EOD) and during his service completed multiple tours including the invasion of Iraq in 2003. Upon leaving the military, Adnan has forged a successful career as a documentary maker for Channel 4, ITV and the BBC, a writer. He previously edited at The Economist.

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir In this insightful icebreaker for H-Hour, Adnan answers challenging questions from Platinum subscribers, reflecting on grief, identity, and military culture. This gripping session includes raw discussions about the Iraq War, the significance of storytelling, and the power of photography. Adnan also opens up about his book, 'British Muslim Soldier,' and its exploration of belonging and values. Enjoy this compelling 20-minute podcast that sets the stage for a profound conversation in the full podcast episode, #272. https://www.adnansarwar.com/ https://substack.com/@adnansarwar https://www.instagram.com/adnansarwarphotos/ Adnan Sarwar served with the Royal Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit (EOD) and during his service completed multiple tours including the invasion of Iraq in 2003. Upon leaving the military, Adnan has forged a successful career as a documentary maker for Channel 4, ITV and the BBC, a writer. He previously edited at The Economist.

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir Tina Woods joins H-Hour to share her profound journey from studying genetics to revolutionizing the health and well-being sector. This episode explores her innovative approach to combining science and rave culture through co-founding Longevity Rave, the impact of the Human Exposome Project, and the role of social behaviour in achieving a healthier life. Tina discusses the transformative effects of technology on health, the significance of community, and the critical importance of preventative care over the traditional healthcare model. Join us for a conversation filled with insights on human flourishing, longevity, and breaking boundaries in the health industry. https://longevityrave.world https://www.instagram.com/longevity.rave https://soundcloud.com/user-639532491

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir In this thought-provoking icebreaker for H-Hour, guest Tina Woods answer questions from H-Hour patrons. Tina delves into pivotal questions on life's meaning, longevity, and well-being. She discusses the impact of optimism on lifespan, the science behind biological and subjective age, and the moral complexities surrounding euthanasia. The episode also touches on Tina's personal journey from her least happy in her twenties to her most fulfilled state now. With questions sourced from Patreon subscribers, this engaging conversation sets the stage for the full podcast #271 exploring longevity, health, and finding purpose in life. https://longevityrave.world https://www.instagram.com/longevity.rave https://soundcloud.com/user-639532491

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir For episode #270, emmy-award winning documentary film maker (and former soldier) Tom Martienssen and I delve into the fascinating and dangerous world of wildlife filmmaking for H-Hour. Tom shares his experiences documenting the birth of a black rhino, a feat never before captured on film. We also explore the complex and often perilous efforts of anti-poaching rangers in Kenya, the socioeconomic factors driving poaching, and the resilience of the wildlife conservation community. Tom's journey from filming human conflict zones to capturing rare wildlife moments showcases the intertwined struggles for survival, both human and animal. Tom's first appearance on H-Hour was on #101 https://charliecharlieone.com/2020/09/h-hour-podcast-101-tom-martienssen-journalist-documentary-maker-raf-regiment/ Tom Martienssen is an Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker and cinematographer who has worked in over 50 countries and territories, including Afghanistan, the Arctic, the Himalayas, and the Pacific Islands. His career began while working as a combat search and rescue team member in Afghanistan, which sparked his passion for storytelling. He later trained at the BBC Academy and worked as a journalist for the BBC World Affairs Unit before focusing on cinematography. Martienssen has covered major global events, including surviving and reporting on the 2015 earthquake in Nepal and working undercover in the Middle East to report on ISIS. He is currently directing and shooting four documentaries, focusing on conservation in Nigeria, poaching in Kenya, culture in global Indigenous communities, and high Arctic exploration. He collaborates on his projects with Diamond Docs and the BBC. One of his upcoming films, Rhino (2025), is a documentary about a wildlife ranger protecting endangered black rhinos in Kenya. He is also the founder of Dustoff Films and an honouree of The Explorers Club 50 https://www.instagram.com/dustoff_films

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir H-Hour Icebreaker Tom Martienssen features Emmy-winning documentary film maker, former RAF Regiment soldier. In this compelling preview to #270, Tom Martienssen shares gripping stories from Afghanistan, the nuances between different military units, and the complexities of dealing with PTSD. From filming with the Taliban to capturing the first-ever Black rhino birth in the wild, Tom provides deep insights into the challenges and triumphs of both war and filmmaking. His discussion also highlights the essential support systems for veterans, making this episode a poignant exploration of resilience and recovery. Tom's first appearance on H-Hour was on #101 https://charliecharlieone.com/2020/09/h-hour-podcast-101-tom-martienssen-journalist-documentary-maker-raf-regiment/ Tom Martienssen is an Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker and cinematographer who has worked in over 50 countries and territories, including Afghanistan, the Arctic, the Himalayas, and the Pacific Islands. His career began while working as a combat search and rescue team member in Afghanistan, which sparked his passion for storytelling. He later trained at the BBC Academy and worked as a journalist for the BBC World Affairs Unit before focusing on cinematography. Martienssen has covered major global events, including surviving and reporting on the 2015 earthquake in Nepal and working undercover in the Middle East to report on ISIS. He is currently directing and shooting four documentaries, focusing on conservation in Nigeria, poaching in Kenya, culture in global Indigenous communities, and high Arctic exploration. He collaborates on his projects with Diamond Docs and the BBC. One of his upcoming films, Rhino (2025), is a documentary about a wildlife ranger protecting endangered black rhinos in Kenya. He is also the founder of Dustoff Films and an honouree of The Explorers Club 50 https://www.instagram.com/dustoff_films

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd Lee Matthews joins H-Hour to explore his transformative journey from a career in the Parachute Regiment to establishing one of the most respected martial arts organisations. Lee shares riveting accounts of his time in the military, including the intense training, camaraderie, and coping with challenges post-service. The conversation delves into Lee's unexpected shift from fear-driven motivations to finding passion and purpose, culminating in the launch of Total Kombat, an innovative fight show platform. Tune in to hear about resilience, personal growth, and the enduring impact of military discipline. https://www.instagram.com/totalkombat_ https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial https://www.amazon.co.uk/Elite-Martial-Arts-Instructor-operating/dp/B0CLFSLPPB Lee Matthews is a British entrepreneur, former UK Armed Forces paratrooper, and multi-award winning kickboxer who co-founded Total Kombat - a brand new form of combat sport with the very best Fighters from Karate, Taekwondo, Kickboxing and MMA. Lee is also the founder of British Military Martial Arts (BMMA), the largest chain of martial arts centres in the UK, and author of his book Elite Martial Arts Instructor: A military approach to opening, operating and scaling a thriving martial arts business.

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd This H-Hour Icebreaker features a H-Hour Patron Q&A with Lee Matthews - a British entrepreneur, former UK Armed Forces paratrooper, and multi-award winning kickboxer who co-founded Total Kombat - a brand new form of combat sport with the very best Fighters from Karate, Taekwondo, Kickboxing and MMA. Lee is also the founder of British Military Martial Arts (BMMA), the largest chain of martial arts centres in the UK, and author of his book Elite Martial Arts Instructor: A military approach to opening, operating and scaling a thriving martial arts business. https://www.instagram.com/totalkombat_ https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial https://www.amazon.co.uk/Elite-Martial-Arts-Instructor-operating/dp/B0CLFSLPPB

“When is a lawful order lawful?” Marcus Peters and I dive into the complexities of military ethics, the unspoken valour of Cold War submariners, and the challenging transition into civilian life in H-Hour #268. We explore the stringent selection process for submarine captains, the camaraderie and unique culture aboard submarines, and the often unacknowledged psychological toll of service. Marcus opens up about his own struggles with leaving the military, the shame he once felt, and the importance of mentorship, community, and mental health support for veterans. This episode is a profound look into the silent sacrifices and uncelebrated heroes beneath the waves.

H-Hour Icebreaker #268. In this engaging icebreaker episode, former Cold War submariner Marcus Peters discusses the ethical dilemmas in military orders, the day-to-day life of military personnel, and the robust training exercises they undergo. The conversation shifts to the challenges and support mechanisms for military personnel transitioning to civilian life, with a focus on various branches of the armed forces. Peters also shares personal reflections on wisdom gained with age, the emotional connection to military service, and debunks common myths about leaving the forces. This episode serves as a prelude to a full podcast with Marcus, offering an intimate glimpse into Peters' experiences and insights.

H-Hour #267 features Yukari Takehisa - co-founder of Longevity Rave. Yukari , a DJ, delves into the liberating power of raving and its positive impact on mental health and longevity. Partnering with her co-founder Tina, they blend electronic music with scientific research on well-being, aiming to create inclusive, multi-generational communities. Yukari discusses varying rave cultures globally, the origins of techno, and their upcoming sober rave in London. Their mission is to promote the health benefits of dance and community, proving that you don’t need alcohol or drugs to have an amazing rave experience. https://www.longevityrave.world/ https://www.instagram.com/longevity.rave/ https://www.tiktok.com/@longevity.rave Yukari Takehisa, born in Tokyo, raised in the United States, and educated in the United Kingdom, is also an Insights Manager in the social intelligence industry, holding a degree in anthropology and a master’s in media and communications from the London School of Economics.

H-Hour Icebreaker #267 Yukari Takehisa - co-founder of Longevity Rave. In this engaging icebreaker addressing questions submitted by H-Hour patrons, Hugh and Yukari discuss a variety of topics including the concept of living forever, cultural exchanges between Japan and the UK, as well as happiness across demographics. Yukari shares her personal experiences of bridging Japanese and Western cultures, her thoughts on societal norms, and her transformative journey through music and dancing. The conversation delves into the significance of joy and connection in discussions about health and longevity, alongside addressing societal views on aging. Once you have finished this episode, be sure to listen to the full podcast H-Hour #267. https://www.longevityrave.world/ https://www.instagram.com/longevity.rave/ https://www.tiktok.com/@longevity.rave Yukari Takehisa, born in Tokyo, raised in the United States, and educated in the United Kingdom, is also an Insights Manager in the social intelligence industry, holding a degree in anthropology and a master’s in media and communications from the London School of Economics.

H-Hour Icebreaker #266 Ben Griffin - This icebreaker episode (prequel to a full H-Hour podcast) features features ex-22 SAS, 2 Para, and activist Ben Griffin who returns for an in-depth conversation, addressing challenging questions from H-Hour Platinum subscribers. He discusses his reluctance to participate in public interviews, citing his retirement from activism. The discussion touches on moral duty, the impacts of his military experiences, and the limitations of systemic change from within the military. Griffin also reflects on his unique perspective as an SAS veteran and the broader implications of military culture in British society. The conversation delves into his views on political censorship and the complex nature of institutional change.

H-Hour #266 features ex-SAS, 2 Para and activist Ben Griffin returns to discuss a wide range of topics from his controversial viewpoints on patriotism, the British military's interventions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, to his personal experiences and struggles with PTSD. The conversation dives into moral and ethical debates within the military, the impact of governmental policies on war-stricken regions, and reflection on historical versus modern-day combat ethics. Griffin also sheds light on his transformative journey from being a serviceman to a vocal critic of British foreign policy. The episode concludes with practical advice for veterans dealing with mental health issues, marking a thought-provoking and candid discussion.

H-Hour #265 Paul Tyson - News Editor, British Army veteran, journalist. Veteran journalist Paul Tyson joins the podcast to offer an in-depth look into his career and the changing landscape of news reporting. From his days in the military to covering significant global events, Paul shares his experiences and the challenges of reporting on complex issues like war, climate change, and natural disasters. He also discusses his current focus on Blast Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs), emphasizing the need for better diagnostic and treatment practices. This episode sheds light on the ethical considerations and responsibilities that come with being a journalist in today’s fast-paced media environment. https://x.com/Tyson585

H-Hour Icebreaker #265 Paul Tyson - News Editor, journalist and British Army veteran. This icebreaker episode (prequel to a full H-Hour podcast) features Paul and Hugh engaging in a dynamic discussion in for Paul's first ever interview. They cover the evolution of journalism, criticisms and defences of mainstream media, and the complexities of diversity in the industry. Tyson reflects on significant changes within the media landscape over his 30-year career, criticising past practices and supporting the role of a free press today. The episode serves as a prelude to a deeper dive into these issues in the full podcast. https://x.com/Tyson585

H-Hour #264 Tom Currigan - Apache Pilot Former Apache Pilot Tom Currigan offers a gripping account of his experiences, detailing near-death encounters in Afghanistan, the challenges of military life, and the harrowing process of making split-second, life-or-death decisions. Transitioning to civilian life, he discusses the therapeutic power of music and forming his band, Rogue Awakening, during the COVID-19 lockdown. The conversation covers the intense camaraderie of both military and music worlds, and the unexpected overlaps between them.

H-Hour Icebreaker #264 Tom Currigan - Apache Pilot. This icebreaker episode (prequel to a full H-Hour podcast) features ex Army Air Corps Apache Pilot Tom Currigan In this episode, Tom Currigan answers H-Hour subscriber's questions and shares harrowing accounts from his time as an Apache pilot, including a near-fatal encounter with a tug vehicle on a runway. The discussion transitions to life lessons, such as overcoming failure and the importance of hard work over talent. Tom also reflects on his inspirations, the pitfalls of social media, and the value of genuine effort in achieving success. The episode concludes with Tom's perspectives on modern influencers and the culture of entitlement.

'I've been given that extra chance and I need to start giving back.' In this impactful episode, Karl recounts his harrowing experiences from being a military serviceman in Iraq to becoming a motivational speaker and endurance athlete. After surviving severe burn injuries and a 10-day induced coma, Karl discusses his recovery process, the role of medical staff, and the personal growth that followed. The episode also covers Karl’s numerous marathon completions, his outlook on politics, and the life lessons derived from his military service. This conversation highlights themes of resilience, the importance of community support, and the significance of time management in overcoming life’s challenges. Karl Hinett is a British military veteran and adventurer who has raised significant funds through various challenges. He served in the Staffordshire Regiment and was severely injured during a petrol bomb attack in Iraq in 2005, suffering 37% burns to his face, hands, arms, legs, and stomach. Following his injuries, he underwent 16 operations over five years to recover. Since 2005, he has participated in numerous marathons and ultra-marathons, including running a total of 100 marathons in 2011 and 2012. In March 2025, he and other veterans raised £90,000 through an Arctic challenge, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and friendship. Karl is also a motivational speaker and a member of the CASEVAC Club, an organization for military veterans.

‘I wouldn't change a thing. I'd go through all that suffering again and again knowing that what I've got now is what I'll have at the end of it.’ In this engaging icebreaker with Karl Hinett, the discussion centres around a H-Hour patron Q&A held before the London Marathon. The episode dives into deep questions on politics, military life, and personal experiences. Karl reflects on his entry into the military, the moral complexities of war, and the impact it has had on his life and outlook. He argues that his time in the military has given him resilience, a positive frame of mind, and a unique set of skills that aid in problem-solving and personal growth. He also discusses how his severe injuries led to self-improvement, emphasising the value of time and community support. The session closes with plans to explore Karl's journey as a motivational speaker and endurance athlete in the forthcoming podcast. Karl Hinett is a British military veteran and adventurer who has raised significant funds through various challenges. He served in the Staffordshire Regiment and was severely injured during a petrol bomb attack in Iraq in 2005, suffering 37% burns to his face, hands, arms, legs, and stomach. Following his injuries, he underwent 16 operations over five years to recover. Since 2005, he has participated in numerous marathons and ultra-marathons, including running a total of 100 marathons in 2011 and 2012. In March 2025, he and other veterans raised £90,000 through an Arctic challenge, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and friendship. Karl is also a motivational speaker and a member of the CASEVAC Club, an organization for military veterans.