A special event presented by How To Academy
MADE BY THE SAS — LIVE
Tom Petch with Bear Grylls and Louis Rudd
Saturday 28 November 2026 | 3pm
Royal Geographical Society, London
To celebrate the publication of Made by the SAS, Tom Petch will be joined by Bear Grylls and polar explorer Louis Rudd for a special live event presented by How To Academy.
Together, they will explore the extraordinary lives of those who have served in the SAS, from the Regiment’s beginnings in the Second World War to the present day.
Beyond the familiar stories of daring and endurance lies something equally compelling: the character of the individuals involved, the decisions they made and the values that shaped their lives.
An afternoon of remarkable stories, personal experiences and reflections on what it means to be made by the SAS.
MADE BY THE SAS
Lives of Daring and Adventure
The SAS is known for its extraordinary military achievements. Less familiar are the remarkable lives its members have led beyond the Regiment.
From the founders who established its distinctive ethos to those who have climbed the world’s highest mountains, crossed frozen continents, established charities and saved lives, Made by the SAS tells the stories of the people behind the reputation.
Written in collaboration with the SAS Regimental Association, the book draws on new interviews and privileged access to the Association’s archive.
Featuring Bear Grylls, Krishna Thapa and Louis Rudd, among others, it explores the qualities that unite these individuals: courage, resilience, humility, initiative and responsibility for others.
The book also supports the ongoing work of the SAS Regimental Association.
Published 19 November 2026
IRREGULAR LIVES
Extraordinary people. Unconventional lives.
Hosted by author, filmmaker and former SAS Troop Commander Tom Petch, Irregular Lives explores the people, experiences and decisions that shape extraordinary lives.
Through candid, thoughtful conversations with individuals who have taken unconventional paths, Tom examines character, courage, responsibility and the choices people make when circumstances demand something of them.
Drawing on his experience in the military, filmmaking and storytelling, Tom goes beyond familiar narratives to discover the human stories behind them.
SPEAKING
Leadership, character and decision-making under pressure.
Drawing on his experience as an SAS Troop Commander, filmmaker and author, Tom Petch brings an unusual perspective to the challenges of leadership, responsibility and human behaviour.
Through compelling stories and historical insight, Tom explores what happens when circumstances change, established plans fail and individuals must make difficult decisions.
His talks examine the qualities that enable people and teams to operate effectively in uncertainty, and what those experiences can teach us about leadership today.
SPEED. AGGRESSION. SURPRISE.
The Untold Secret Origins of the SAS
In his acclaimed first work of military history, Tom Petch explores the origins of the Special Air Service and the extraordinary individuals who transformed unconventional ideas into a new form of warfare.
Drawing on extensive research, the book reveals the personalities, relationships and decisions behind the creation of one of the world’s most famous military units.
“AWESOME!”
“You must read this book”
“Page-turning and revelatory”