Podcast

689. The Secret Weapon of Elite Soldiers: Breath, Discipline & Mindset – With Wouter Huizer

Ex-Dutch special forces operator turned breathwork coach Wouter Huizer joins me to discuss masculinity, elite performance, and mastering the nervous system. We get into counter-terrorism, ethics, high-performing teams, anger, discipline, military identity, the “off switch,” up-regulation, insecurity, and refusing the shot. A punchy, masculine, and insightful chat with plenty of laughs and hard-won wisdom.

Read more from Wouter here:
www.Magniful.nl
www.swartgym.nl
www.BaseQamp.com

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Wouter Huizer has had a distinguished career in elite military units, including the Marine Corps and the Royal Marechaussee, spanning 24 years. He served as a Special Forces Medic, specialized in urban climbing, and led operational teams through four deployments. Over time, the intense demands of service took a toll on his physical and emotional well-being. Seeking healing, Wouter turned to breathwork and cold exposure, which alleviated his pain and restored his emotional awareness. This transformation led him to study embodiment practices, blending science, ancient traditions, and modern techniques. Now, as a stress regulation specialist at SwartGym, Wouter helps individuals—from elite operators to civilians—enhance resilience, self-awareness, and well-being. He also works with defense units, teaching stress management to optimize physical and mental performance. Wouter’s mission is to guide others toward balance, connection, and inner strength through conscious movement, breathwork, and self-regulation.

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Our Podcast Interviewers

Mark Walsh

Mark Walsh

Founder of The Embodied Facilitator CourseEmbodied Yoga Principles, Integration Training and The Embodiment Podcast.

Patricia Aguirre

Patricia is a Therapist, Yoga Teacher and Family Constellations Facilitator. She is a lead trainer of the Trauma Coaching certification and the Courage to Lead course for female facilitators.

Karin van Maanen

Karin is a yoga & meditation teacher and embodiment trainer with an MSc in Mindfulness Studies. She's co-author of Embodied Meditation and is lead trainer on the Embodied Meditation and Embodied Toolkit certifications.

Christina Dohr

Christina is an embodiment coach and somatic educator with an MSc in Social Sciences. She's co-lead trainer on the Certification of Embodiment Coaching and Courage to Lead courses. Christina combines her work as an Aikido blackbelt, dance and improvisation in guiding groups and individuals.

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