Rhys Dowden - OPERATOR EDGE
Selection Bullet Points
Covering all topics related to Special Operations selection.
Author
Rhys Dowden - OPERATOR EDGE
Category
Podcast website
Latest episode
Aug 25, 2025
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Episodes
30: Snipers, Selection Nutrition & Hydration 25.11.2021 19:06
In this episode, I answer 15 questions that were asked of me recently. Topics include the SF sniper course, best swimming stroke, GPS watches, pack weight, TAG duties, SFDRS and more.
29: Selection Is Voluntary 11.11.2021 7:28
In this episode, I discuss the unique aspect of selection being voluntary, which is completely at odds with anything else in the Military. If you underestimate or are underprepared for this, your selection attempt will be short-lived.
28: Motivation, Selection Surprises & PTG's 09.11.2021 18:19
In this episode, I discuss staying motivated in the Regular Army, the surprises from this year's Commando selection course as well as lateral transfer & direct entry into a Police Tactical Group.
27: How To Improve Your Navigation Skills 20.10.2021 15:07
In this episode, I discuss how to improve your navigation skills in preparation for selection. Navigation is a crucial skill that you must be proficient in before you begin selection. Follow these navigation tips and tricks and be ready to execute on selection.
26: 11 SF Related Questions Answered 14.10.2021 16:37
In this episode, I answer 11 questions that were emailed through recently. Topics include: Why I left SF, exchange opportunities within SF, tips for putting on weight, expected pack weight for the navigation phase and the use of Condy's crystals for feet hardening + more.
25: My Special Operations journey 03.10.2021 12:13
In this episode, I discuss my pathway to Special Operations. As you'll hear I made a lot of mistakes along the way before finally making it. Your selection journey may follow a similar path and you'll need to be persistent to ensure you "work it out" if you want the beret and everything that comes with it.
24: Getting BOS'd Off Selection 21.09.2021 17:03
In this episode, I discuss the criteria each Special Operations candidate is being assessed on throughout selection. I go through the reasons why a candidate could be removed from selection and/or not pass, and what ultimately selection is really all about.
23: Selection Pathways 07.09.2021 31:17
In this episode, I discuss the different pathways you can take towards Army Special Forces selection, including from the full-time Army, Army Reserves, SFDRS and other Military branches. I also discuss the fitness activities and benchmarks you'll be required to reach IOT pass as well as be competitive. Finally, I discuss the different elements of the actual selection course.
22: SF Personality Types 31.08.2021 17:52
In this episode, I discuss what personality types make it through selection and into a Special Operations unit. I also discuss the 16 personalities test, go through a little experiment I conducted and put it all into perspective.
21: Injuries & Selection 12.08.2021 12:46
In this episode, I discuss injuries and selection. Possible injuries that could hinder your selection chances and those that could even prevent you from joining the Defence Force. I also discuss injuries and sports - specifically BJJ.
20: Selection Q&A 29.07.2021 16:31
In this episode, I answer various selection related questions that were emailed in by my subscriber base. Topics include: reasons one could fail selection, training around injuries and the combined selection course occurring from next year.
19: Selection Concerns & Solutions 20.07.2021 21:38
In this episode, I discuss some of the possible concerns a candidate may have when preparing for selection, and I also provide solutions to those problems.
18: Impostor Syndrome 04.06.2021 8:14
In this episode, I discuss how to overcome the impostor syndrome and how to change your mindset into a more positive belief that you can actually pass selection.
17: UTA100 Trail Race 25.05.2021 22:07
This episode is a little different - in it, I discuss my attempt at completing the Ultra Trail Australia 100km race held at the Blue Mountains a couple of weeks ago. It was much tougher than I'd anticipated and some great lessons were learned!
16: Special Forces Salary 12.05.2021 7:24
In this episode, I discuss the salary for Special Forces soldiers and why it's recently been changed on the Army website from $120k down to $87k. Did SF receive a pay reduction?!
15: Adaptive Coping Strategies 22.04.2021 12:15
In this episode, I discuss some of the adaptive coping strategies that you can employ to help you get through a tough physical training session. Whether that be on selection or during your everyday training.
14: What's the ideal age to attempt selection? 13.04.2021 5:57
In this episode, I discuss the age question regarding selection. When's the best age to attempt it? When is too early? When is too late?
13: Don't Talk Yourself Off Selection 30.03.2021 6:27
In this episode, I discuss the reasons why a candidate might talk themselves into quitting selection and how you can avoid the same negative mindset.
12: Dealing With The Haters 24.03.2021 6:10
In this episode, I discuss dealing with the haters that you may come across when going after your Special Operations dream.
11: Is SFDRS worth it? 18.03.2021 5:11
In this episode, I discuss the Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme pathway and if it's actually worth pursuing considering the high failure rate.
10: How to improve your 3.2km run time 16.03.2021 15:45
In this episode, I discuss the different ways to improve your 3.2km run time... a critical (and tough) component of SF selection.
9: What are reasons candidates could finish selection, but not pass? 09.03.2021 10:15
In this episode, I discuss some of the potential reasons why a candidate could complete selection, but not get selected to continue onto the reinforcement cycle.
8: How should you present yourself during PT on selection if you're having a shit day? 03.03.2021 8:20
In this episode, I discuss what you should do on selection, during a PT session, if you're having an off day and feel as though you're going to break yourself.
7: If I had to do selection again... 26.02.2021 8:48
In this episode, I discuss the five (5) areas I would focus on if I had to prepare for selection again.
6: Narrowing your focus for selection 23.02.2021 7:59
In this episode, I discuss how you must narrow your focus the closer you get to selection. You must make sleep a priority and be brutal in saying no.
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