This week’s episode is an incredible one. I’m joined by Lachie Samuel Mariu, all the way from Perth, who opens up and shares his raw and honest journey through life. From being sexually abused as a child, to running away from South Auckland in his late teens, landing a FIFO job, and navigating the heavy culture that came with it. Lachie’s story is filled with powerful twists and turns. He also shares the moment he discovered that the daughter he had raised for 10 years wasn’t biologically his, his battles with mental health, substance use, and weight gain, and, more recently, the serious health challenges he’s faced, including heart problems, a stroke, memory loss, and nearly losing his life. <br>
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Lachie opens up about the impact his journey has had on his relationships, the toll that FIFO life took on his mental health, and what day-to-day reality in that environment was really like. He speaks honestly about the process of finding his way out, without skipping past the mental, physical, and emotional battles he faced along the way. His story is a raw reminder of the strength it takes to rebuild, and the power of choosing healing even when life has stripped you bare. <br>
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After spending over a decade within the FIFO world, Lachie has now turned his pain into purpose. He speaks at conferences, runs FIFO mental health groups, and works one-on-one with individuals, helping them navigate the same challenges he once faced. His journey into this work began after leaving FIFO, when he started his own podcast, creating a space for honest conversations with people who’ve been through tough life experiences and showing others that healing is possible. <br>
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The conversation Lachie and I shared was packed with so much insight, but what stood out to me most was the way he brings awareness to the bigger picture, that mental health matters for everyone. His openness is a reminder that you never truly know what someone might be going through, and just how important it is to keep these conversations alive. <br>
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A massive thank you to Lachie for sharing his journey in the hope that it reaches the next person who needs to hear it. You can find Lachie on Instagram @lachiesamuel, where he regularly shares updates, and through his website at www.lachiesamuel.com. <br>
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