Keith Banks: Facing Darkness, Finding Growth

In this episode of The Self Experiment, I sit down with Keith Banks — he is one of Australia’s most decorated former undercover police officers, an author, and a sought-after speaker. During the 1980s he lived two lives, infiltrating dangerous drug syndicates while carrying the unseen toll of trauma and violence. Today, he shares his journey with raw honesty—exploring courage, resilience, and the long road to recovery—offering lessons not just from policing, but from the human condition itself.

In this conversation, we delve into the complexities of police trauma, mental health, and the challenges faced by law enforcement officers. We discuss the importance of writing as a therapeutic tool, the need for better coping mechanisms, and the barriers to change within policing culture. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement, the impact of organizational culture, and the transition from policing to civilian life. Additionally, we explore the potential benefits of cannabis legalization and its implications for society and law enforcement.