Paul de Gelder: Shark Attack Survivor on Pain, Resilience, and Mental Strength

In this episode of The Judd Lienhard Podcast, I sit down with Paul de Gelder—shark attack survivor, former Australian Navy clearance diver, and one of the toughest men you’ll ever meet.

Paul lost his hand and leg during a bull shark attack in Sydney Harbour. Most people would’ve quit. Paul didn’t. He rebuilt his body, rewired his mindset, and now lives a life of purpose—co-hosting Shark Week, speaking around the world, and training like a savage.

We talk about trauma, recovery, and what it actually takes to build resilience and mental strength. Whether you're a dad, athlete, coach, or someone trying to push through hard times—you'll be glad you listened.

🎯 You’ll learn:

• How to rebuild after life breaks you
• Mental tools to train your mindset like a muscle
• Paul’s approach to pain, rehab, and purpose
• Why excuses don’t serve you—and what to do instead

👊 Real adversity. Real lessons. Real strength.

🔗 Connect with Paul de Gelder
Instagram: @pauldegelder
YouTube: @pauldegelder1
Watch him on Shark Week (Discovery / Max)

🔗 Connect with Judd Lienhard
Instagram: @juddlienhard
YouTube: @juddlienhard
Training & Programs: juddlienhard.com

🎧 Subscribe for new episodes every Tuesday at 5a CST.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Shark attack, trauma, and mindset
06:30 – Paul's early life, bullying, and direction
13:00 – Military transformation: from lost teen to elite diver
19:40 – The moment that changed everything
27:30 – Surviving a bull shark attack
36:15 – The recovery and decision to amputate
43:00 – Rebuilding his body and his purpose
50:00 – Training again: walking, lifting, moving
56:45 – How Paul avoids depression and victimhood
1:05:00 – Hosting Shark Week & working with Will Smith
1:13:00 – Grit, purpose, and staying on the edge

This episode is brought to you by LMNT.

Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd

The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits.

Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥