In this episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney welcomes Aaron Clark, the dynamic founder of Mental Health Muscle and a passionate advocate for men’s mental health and well-being. With a career dedicated to education, mentorship, and supporting the armed forces community, Aaron’s mission is to create spaces for connection, growth, and meaningful conversations around mental health.
About the Guest: Aaron Clark is more than just a mental health champion—he’s a trailblazer in the world of mentoring, volunteer development, and community leadership. His work spans across the South of England and beyond, where he: Leads training and education efforts for SSAFA (the Armed Forces charity), focusing on mentoring, volunteer management, and mental health guidance. Supports veterans through caseworker training and programmes designed for those in the criminal justice system. Champions mental health awareness as an advisor and advocate, helping to shape courses and discussions around well-being. Aaron’s personal journey is deeply shaped by the tragic loss of a friend during his boarding school years—a moment that left a profound impact and drives his advocacy today.
What to Expect in This Episode: Aaron shares his story and dives into the current state of men’s mental health, reflecting on topics such as: A personal tragedy that sparked a mission: The devastating loss of a close friend to suicide during his youth and the absence of mental health support or conversation around it. The creation of Mental Health Muscle: How Aaron’s passion for fitness and mental health collided, leading to the founding of a community that inspires men to build both physical and emotional strength. The importance of conversation: Why creating spaces for men to open up without fear of judgment is critical in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Supporting the Armed Forces community: His work in mentoring veterans and empowering volunteers to meet the challenges of supporting those who have served. The state of men’s mental health today: Aaron’s take on the progress being made and the areas still in need of attention.
Key Takeaways: Mental health is a shared responsibility. By fostering community connection and offering mentorship, we can support individuals before they reach a crisis point. Tragedy can shape purpose. Aaron turned the pain of losing his friend into a lifelong mission to help others. Fitness and mental health are deeply linked. Building physical strength can often lead to building emotional resilience. We need to focus on prevention. Aaron’s work emphasises the importance of early intervention, open dialogue, and support systems.
Aaron’s Message to Listeners: Aaron reminds us that mental health advocacy isn’t just about providing resources—it’s about showing up, starting conversations, and making sure no one feels alone in their struggles. He believes in the power of mentorship, community, and compassion to change lives.
Links :
https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-clark-44b90055/
https://www.instagram.com/lewishackney/
🎧 Don’t miss this insightful and heartfelt conversation with Aaron Clarke, where we explore how strength, vulnerability, and connection can create lasting change. Tune in now!
