The Modern Mind

#101 | Mick Hawkes | 14 Years In The SAS - Living Life On The Edge

May 6, 2024

Former 22 SAS member Mick Hawkes shares his journey from failed footballer to successful Special Forces operator. He discusses his time in the military, being captured in Bosnia, and the challenges of working undercover. The podcast also explores his transition to civilian life and his upcoming book 'Life on the Edge'.

01:15:45

Episode guests

Mick Hawkes

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Transitioning from failed football dreams to military success, Mick Hawkes' journey reflects resilience and adaptability.

Facing challenges in the SAS selection process, Mick Hawkes displayed mental toughness and determination.

Surviving a harrowing capture in Bosnia, Mick Hawkes' experience sheds light on the dangers of covert operations.

Deep dives

Transition into Military Career

Joining the military wasn't initially a goal for Mick Hawkes, but inspired by a paratrooper's photo, he embarked on a military journey. Despite a setback in his aspiration to be a footballer, transitioning into the military at 15 led him to a unique path. Finding motivation as a teenager, he joined the parachute regiment and later ventured into special forces, facing challenges that shaped his military career.

Intro

5min

Military Journey and Transition from Football Career

14min

Exploring the Benefits of Vivo Barefoot Shoes and Personal Experience with Different Models

5min

Challenges and Determination in SCS Selection

17min

Capture and Interrogation Behind Enemy Lines

14min

Exploring Alcohol Consumption Trends and Socializing with Alcohol-Free Beer

2min

Undercover Operations in Northern Ireland

12min

Writing 'Life on the Edge'

7min

In this episode, Fergus is joined by Mick Hawkes, former 22 SAS, undercover surveillance operator and security consultant.

Mick has lived a fascinating life. He grew up wanting to be a professional footballer, but an unsuccessful trial at Lincoln City put his dream on hold. He joined the military at 16, serving with the Parachute Regiment and 29 Commando before eventually taking on SAS selection. After ending up in hospital and failing the first time, he successfully passed on the 2nd attempt. Mick spent 14 years in the SAS and operated all over the world, including Bosnia, where he was taken prisoner alongside Billy Billingham. As well as this, Mick conducted successful surveillance operations with The Det in Northern Ireland and even worked with MI5. After leaving the military, he went onto work in the corporate world, providing security consultancy to large organisations and now runs Hawkes and Co with his daughter, delivering training to multiple sectors including schools and agriculture.

Mick shares details of his childhood, his career in the military, what it was like working undercover in the surveillance world, his experience of being captured in Bosnia, many of the lessons learned and much much more…

Expect to gain insight into the hidden world of surveillance.

Expect to reflect on how you overcome challenges in life.

Expect to understand more on the mindset required to be a special forces operator.

Mick is also releasing a book called Life On The Edge, dedicated to his co-writer Nicole Johnston, who sadly passed away very recently. The book aims to help people get around all the obstacles life throws at us. The release date is to be announced in the near future.

Mick’s Website: https://www.hawkesandco.uk

Mick’s Instagram: @mhawkes40

Fergus’s Instagram: @ferguscrawley

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