Michael describes how leaving Africa for Australia brought him both emptiness and relief. Building a new life meant loss of networks and family upheaval, including divorce, yet the safety, law and order in Australia provided comfort.

Michael’s passion for high-risk activities like kayaking, skydiving, and micro-lighting was driven by adrenaline and the thrill of adventure, helping him stay present. These pursuits became an alternative to addiction after war.

Over decades, Michael survived multiple accidents, including a microlight crash, car collision, kayaking mishaps, and waterfall incidents. These experiences involved physical trauma but did not deter him from continuing adventurous activities.

Michael wrestled with PTSD and depression post-accident. His recovery involved therapy, medication, rehabilitation, and personal action. He returned to Africa to confront past traumas which proved therapeutic and helped resolve recurring nightmares from his earlier life.

Michael’s approach to struggle emphasises taking action and maintaining hope. He explains that changing circumstances and environments, even simple walks, can ignite improvement and it is vital to step beyond our comfort zones.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

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Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

Michal’s childhood was filled with outdoor adventure and freedom in Rhodesia, growing up on a hobby farm, fishing and riding, but also navigating a complex relationship with his Scottish father’s temper.

Being sent to boarding school at a young age shaped Michael’s sense of independence and self-reliance but also led to feelings of abandonment and questions about his own self-worth over many years.

He recalls a safe, respectful community where race was not a dividing factor in his friendships, but witnessed the country’s shift to war, deeply affecting everyone and bringing trauma and loss.

Taking on a leadership role at just 18 in a support unit, Michael shares both responsibility and connection with his troops, facing fear, violence, and witnessing the stark realities of guerrilla warfare.

Exposure to war atrocities led Michael to develop coping strategies and seek adrenaline activities afterwards. His faith and belief in God became a source of strength for healing and perspective.

He moved first to South Africa, navigating strict apartheid-era laws, and later emigrated to Australia.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie

John had a tough childhood, surviving mental and physical abuse. Living on the streets at fourteen shaped his empathy, wisdom, and understanding of the challenges facing many men today.

From truck driver to mindfulness coach, John’s story includes surviving a catastrophic accident, experiencing a spiritual awakening, and transforming years of darkness into clarity. He teaches simple practices that bring peace and connection.

John’s life was changed by spiritual prompts, powerful stories, and unwavering respect. He found meaning by pausing, connecting, and letting the universe move the furniture, continually seeking clarity, peace, and authentic connection.

Years spent in mental health units and overcoming diagnoses of incurable psychosis taught John the power of lived experience. His mentorship highlights the importance of sharing stories and inspiring hope through mindfulness.

He champions transformative mentoring, deep respect, and unconditional positive regard. John believes wisdom comes from lived experience and that becoming authentic means taking off masks, letting go of damaging beliefs, and embracing self-love.

John is an Australian Mindfulness Master, Lived Experience Trauma Coach, Spiritual Life Coach and founder of: mindfullyMAD.org (mindfully Making A Difference).

John is an outspoken advocate for mental health, suicide prevention and sharing personal stories. He is passionate about his purpose which is helping a world in crisis to awaken. John has reached millions of people through live talks, documentaries, radio, podcasts, print and online. His signature saying is:

Be Mindful… Pause… Connect!

Links

https://linktr.ee/johnshearer

https://mindfulnesscoach.com.au

https://johnshearer.xyz/my-book

https://facebook.com/mindful99

https://instagram.com/johnshearer.herveybay

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn ||