Martin Murphy
Business: Martin Murphy Coaching
Email: martinmurphy.coach@gmail.com
I've been called many things—philosophical wanderer, international troubleshooter, troublemaker, coach, facilitator, polymath, warrior, even unemployable. But above all, I consider myself a rebel with a cause. I help the bold and curious navigate our rapidly evolving world, fostering confidence and a commitment to transformative change. My mission is to regenerate our approach to community, adventure, learning, nature, and society. Inspired by philosophers like Aristotle, I offer Wild Coaching, facilitated Wisdom Walks for Leaders, and design bespoke Adventure-Based Learning experiences to enhance wellbeing and resilience in dynamic teams. My passion for bushcraft and wilderness survival has deepened my connection to nature, and I now share this with others through my coaching, ‘walkshops’ and workshops. At home, we homeschool our son, nurturing his curiosity and love for the outdoors. We've also started an allotment, which currently resembles the jungles of Borneo—a fitting reminder of my past adventures. I am currently a 'sentinel' ready to help those with mental health challenges of pilgrims, -former members of the Special Forces'. For me, DNA means "Designed by Nature for Adventure," reflecting my belief in the power of nature to teach and heal. I've authored From Mercenaries to Missionaries, a book aimed at helping leaders transform into mission-driven individuals committed to creating a peaceful, prosperous, and regenerative world. Qualified in various therapies, I've developed coaching and decision-making models that emphasise ecological health, well-being, and regeneration. Through Wisdom Walks, wild coaching, bushcraft, and "walkshops," I engage clients in nature to inspire their personal growth, wellbeing and fortitude.
What is your interest or experience of adventure for mental health or wellbeing?
Adventure has been a cornerstone of my life, shaped by a challenging upbringing marked by poverty, violence, and trauma. From an early age, I sought refuge in nature, escaping into the wilderness to find solace from overwhelming emotions. This deep connection with the outdoors led me to the military, where I thrived in physically demanding environments and gained invaluable survival skills. By the age of 21, I had explored the foothills of Kanchenjunga, learned jungle survival with the indigenous Iban community and SAS, and hitchhiked around New Zealand. After years in military and security roles, I pursued a degree in Environmental Science and Outdoor Pursuits, hoping to channel my passion for nature into meaningful work. When Greenpeace wasn’t an option, I transitioned into the corporate world, where I combined my leadership experience with my deep knowledge of philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I now design and lead adventure-based learning experiences that build resilience, foster well-being, and inspire teams to connect deeply with themselves and each other. My work is rooted in the belief that adventure is a powerful tool for personal growth and mental health. Through wisdom walks and wild coaching, I help clients develop a regenerative mindset, empowering them to thrive in both life and work.
How can you help us spread the word about AdventureMind’s mission?
I can help spread the word about AdventureMind’s mission by leveraging my extensive experience in adventure-based learning, leadership, and resilience training, along with my large and engaged following on LinkedIn. My background, which spans from military service to coaching and facilitating in the corporate sector, has given me a profound understanding of the transformative power of adventure, making me a passionate advocate for AdventureMind’s goals. With a strong presence on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, I regularly engage with a wide audience of outdoor enthusiasts, corporate leaders, and professionals. By integrating AdventureMind’s mission into my content, I can effectively reach and inspire this diverse network, highlighting the benefits of adventure for mental and physical well-being. Through my continuous work in the corporate sector, including wisdom walks, wild coaching, and adventure-based learning experiences, I connect with individuals and teams who are committed to innovative approaches to mental health, wellbeing and personal growth. I can introduce AdventureMind’s mission to these communities, helping to build a network of supporters who believe in the impact of adventure. By sharing AdventureMind’s case studies, success stories, and research, I can play a pivotal role in spreading the word and encouraging others to join this important initiative.