EP 160 A Cops Story...'Shot 14 Times: Survival, Mind Discipline and Human Resilience' with Derrick McManus

Send us Fan Mail“I didn’t feel pain. I didn’t hear gunfire. I just thought: ‘Derek, you idiot — how can you be falling at a time like this?’” BIO*Shot 14 times with a high-powered rifle*Conscious and bleeding for 3 hours before rescue*30 seconds from death*Returned to elite sniper and counter-terrorism duties 2 years later*Zero anxiety, depression, or PTSD or ongoing therapyWhen you, your team or your organisation is preparing for or facing uncomfortable challenges and changes, let me take you beyond mere resilience to Human Durability and Sustainable Optimal Performance. Resilience is great when things do go wrong but with Human Durability and Sustained Optimal Performance you will anticipate the challenges and changes and be able to take avoidant action when you see this first sign.My life in the elite Police STAR Group as a sniper, tactical-diver and counter-terrorist operative (ie SAS, Delta Force, SEALs) prepared me for Human Durability. The shooting 'field tested' and affirmed my Human Durability. I defied massive overwhelming odds physically, mentally, and emotionally and have now translated my lived experience and proven tools into universally applicable keynotes and workshops tailored for challenges faced in every industry.After surviving multiple life-threatening injuries and grueling surgeries, I made a remarkable return to frontline duties. Even more extraordinary, I overcame mental health challenges—battling panic attacks and flashbacks initially, only to emerge without clinical anxiety, depression, or PTSD. This journey shaped the Mental Fitness, Agility, and Strength components central to Human Durability.Life’s toughest moments—including personal setbacks after the shooting—taught me that durability is a skill anyone can learn, hone, and embed into their daily lives personally, professionally and mentally. I’ve worked with diverse audiences; from Multinational CEOs to local hairdressers, Fighter pilots to Joint Operations Command, lawyers, real estate, and thousands of HR professionals worldwide. The result? I have helped to create teams that thrive under pressure, leaders who inspire courage, and cultures that sustain peak performance.Imagine what your organisation could achieve if every person carried the mindset and tools to sustain optimal performance—regardless of uncertainty or adversity. “One of the most powerful presentations I’ve ever seen with truly remarkable life lessons.” - Cathie Crampton, Head of Property Development, Harcourts InternationalHuman Durability changes lives—and business results.Let’s talk about bringing this transformation to your people.https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickmcmanus/Security Circle ⭕️  is an IFPOD production for IFPO the International Foundation of Protection Officers