Jamie Pennell

Jamie Pennell

Jamie Pennell has over 20 years of experience with the New Zealand Defence Force, primarily as a member of the New Zealand Special Air Service (NZSAS), where he led, trained, and developed individuals and teams to excel under high-pressure, complex tasks of national and global importance.

After leaving the military, Jamie co-founded Legacy Group with his wife Alia, focusing on helping individuals and teams achieve high performance. He has worked with professional sports teams, Olympic and Paralympic athletes, and corporate leaders to foster strong cultures, enhance team cohesion, and build mental resilience.

In his keynote speeches, Jamie draws on his extensive experience to address topics such as high-performance mindset and culture, resilience, leadership, mental health, and the transition from high-performance environments. He inspires audiences to develop the mindset needed to thrive in challenging situations, foster a culture of excellence, and navigate the complexities of leadership and mental well-being.

Currently, Jamie serves as the Head of Mangatāwhiri Campus at Dilworth School, where he continues to shape young men of character.

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Jamie Pennell, NZ SAS War Hero - Fighting the Taliban, Willie Apiata’s Victoria Cross Award & More!

Episode 182

Jamie Pennell spent 20 years in the NZ SAS and had 4 deployments to Afghanistan.

He was awarded the NZ Gallantry star (our 2nd-highest military honour) for his role responding to the Taliban’s siege of the Kabul Intercontinental Hotel in 2011. During his time in the SAS, he also fought alongside Willie Apiata and witnessed the events which saw him awarded his Vic Cross.

This is an incredible episode of previously untold war stories - as well as a look at the after-effects of the military on mental health, the struggle to return to normal life after service, and much more.