Shows
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 195 - Turning Up, or Turn It Up?This episode begins with an important Blue Mountains community announcement by Paramedic Christian Mortensen, that may be distressing for some listeners. I am joined by Pat Blacker from Standby - Support Post Suicide, and Paramedic Christian Mortensen, to discuss a topic Pat and I had discussed during the week before the show. Basically, when we're not feeling 100%, what's the best thing to do? Admit that you're not feeling great and cancel family events, work, appointments, or turn up and "turn it up" while you're there? Big thanks to Cortado's Coffee Shop, Walk It Off, Mountie's...2025-07-241h 12
BAND IT ABOUT - Podcast SeriesBehind the Kit with Bradley Polain – Australian Drumming Legend & Studio VeteranDrummer Bradley Polain Re-edited S2 episode 14Guest: Bradley Polain – accomplished drummer, vocalist, composer, and storyteller based in Adelaide, South Australia.Summary:In this compelling interview, Di Spillane chats with beloved South Australian musician Bradley Polain. With natural charm and candid insights, Brad shares how his early jazz gigs at age 12 paved the way for decades of live performance, studio work, and mentorship. From his no-reading teaching philosophy to his love for Zeppelin-inspired hard rock, Brad reflects on the drummers who shaped him, the unlikely beginnings of Hindley Street Country Club, and why he still ha...2025-07-1158 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 190 - Connection, finding your passion and everyday life as a first responderLocal photographer & Chief Inspector of Katoomba police Garry Sims joins ECU Paramedic and pilot Christian (Muz) Mortensen and myself for a really balanced chat around connection, finding your passion and everyday life as a first responder. It’s a marvellous show with great continuity and content. Big thanks to Cortado Coffee Shop in LawsonMounties GroupIlanas Delicious Skin FoodWalk It OffMens TableMentoring Men. If you have a story you’d like to share why not reach out and give...2025-05-221h 09
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 189 The Honourable Rose Jackson talks the current status of Mental Health funding, support, awareness etcThe Honourable Rose Jackson of the NSW Labour Party and Minister of Housing, Water, Homelessness, Youth and Mental Health, joins Pat Blacker (Stand By) and myself for an up to date chat around the current status of funding, support, awareness etc. Rose speaks candidly about her personal life as well as the many positive changes and developments over the past 2 years and what we have to look forward to for the future around MH. Rose opens up about being a mum, wife and the enormous responsibility of handling 5 portfolios within our State Government. She is...2025-05-1655 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 188: Stride/StandBy On Accessing Local Support ServicesStride/Stand ByJosh Manzione of Stride (R) and Pat Blacker of Stand By (L) join me for a discussion of local support services within your area. Offering one on one peer support and creating a safe space for us each to open up and know it's ok to not be ok. Big thanks to Mounties GroupCortado's Coffee ShopIlanas Delicious Skin FoodWalk It OffMens TableBradley SpillaneFounder and Host2025-05-091h 17
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 187 - Blame, self compassion, boundaries and learning to say NoJoin Pat Blacker (Stand By), Reuben Elstubb ( MYST) and myself as we unpack topics like Blame, self compassion, boundaries and learning to say NO! I really enjoyed the chat with both Pat and Reuben and I’m sure you’ll agree with me in saying it was good. Big thanks to Cortado’s Coffee shop in Lawson, Mounties Group, Walk It Off, Ilana's Delicious Skin Food & Mens Table Bradley SpillaneFounder and HostMen’s Mental Health Show 0404-077-662025-04-241h 11
Men's Mental Health ShowEp - 186 Self awareness, generosity, gratitude and forming “your Village”Shane (Mr Altruism) Muller and I unpack the importance of self awareness, generosity, gratitude and forming and support base for “your Village”As always huge thanks to Cortado Coffee Shop, Mounties Group, Mens Table, Walk It Off, Mentoring Men. We only and always do face to face interviews in the studio in Katoomba located in The Blue Mountains of Sydney.Thanks everyone. Bradley SpillaneFounder and HostMen’s Mental Health Show + 404-077-6662025-04-161h 13
Men's Mental Health ShowEp - 185 Greg Farmilo, Big Blue BBQ and Prostate CancerIn this episode Pat Blacker from Standby and I go head first into a lengthy and deep discussion around diagnosis of cancer, family, altruism, coping skills and the pure courage and strength that this wonderful man Greg Farmilo has. Greg has stage 4 Prostate Cancer. He was diagnosed back in 2021. It’s the final episode that follows the previous 2 in support for the upcoming Big Blue BBQ being held on Thursday March 20th in Leura in the Blue Mountains, at the Fairmont Resort. Please call Greg direct for your tickets now on 0427 833 851As always massive shout out and t...2025-03-131h 10Men's Mental Health ShowEP 182 - Influence, Support and LabelsInfluence, support and labels. Author and founder of Your Unique Edge and of Safe Watch, Shane Muller joins Life Coach John Milham and I to unpack another action packed episode full of terrific content and discussion from 3 different perspectives. Bradley SpillaneFounder and HostMen’s Mental Health Show 2025-02-211h 16
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 179 - The importance of Community. Then Penny shares her journey around recovery.Brad Spillane is joined by Penny Holdbrook who shares her journey around recovery, in the second half of the show. Nic Danta provides thoughtful, musical interludes, and NSW Chief Isnpector Garry Sims talks about the importance of community and how a quote from Sir Robert Peel resonates with him.2025-02-0148 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 178 - Role Models, Positive InfluenceTerrific show with host Brad Spillane and guests including Shane Muller, author of "Your Unique Edge", life coach John Miller, and local singer, songwriter Nic Danta.
Today we acknowledge the first anniversary of the passing of Boudi Maassen. Nic brings us a beautiful poem to acknowledge the Boudster, while Shane and John bring up the power of positive influence. 2025-01-231h 20
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 177 - Suicide Prevention and Post Suicide SupportBrad Spillane speaks with Jo Kain, from Grand Pacific Health who is setting up a Suicide Prevention Service in the Nepean, NSW area. Also with Brad and Jo in the studio is Pat Blacker, who is with a mob called Stand By, who provide post suicide support in the Nepean / Blue Mountains area. Pat and Brad plan to do a number of shows this year with the Men's Mental Health Show as Stand By have decided to throw their support behind the show.
(This episode begins with a brief chat between Brad and RBM89.1FM presenter Ron...2025-01-221h 23
Kintsugi Heroes: Uncovering our Hidden ValueShining Light on Men's Mental Health through Advocacy with Bradley SpillaneBradley Spillane is an advocate, a community volunteer and spokesperson. Through the men's mental health radio show on Radio Blue Mountains, he is a lodestone, a centre for people talking about something that wasn't fashionable when he started, which was men's mental health and men's health in generalThis episode is a brutally honest, in-depth conversation between two friends: our host John Milham and Brad SpillaneParts of Brad’s story are very confronting. When his marriage came to an end his anger caused his life to spiral out of control. He made two attempts on...2024-05-0751 minMen's Mental Health ShowEp 117 - Delightful lifeMMHS 16/05/23 - In this episode of the Men's Mental Health Show, I talk with fellow presenter Robyn Catchlove about her book 'Somewhere Down a Crazy River' and her delightful approach to life.
Bradley Spillane - 0424 416 9692023-05-161h 18
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 81 - Invitations versus accusationsMMHS 22/03/22 - In today's show with psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I, we discuss so much - death, assumptions, therapy, relatedness and community. A quote from Boudi: "If spirit has breathed into us and given us life its incumbent upon us to live this life well or as best and as deeply as we can." Boudi Maassen - 0242416969. 2022-03-2252 minMen's Mental Health ShowEp 80 - Accepting our vulnerabilityMMHS 15/03/22 - In today's episode of the Men's Mental Health Show, we have ex police officer Anthony Loxley truth speaking about both the passion and trauma he experienced on the job. Trigger warning about mention of suicide. Quote from Boudi: "We have a lot of work to do to recognise just how vulnerable we are and why we need connection and why we need community policies in place that allow us to really open up when we actually need to so we protect each other's mental health."
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 9692022-03-161h 34Men's Mental Health ShowEp 79 - The meaning and value of relationshipsMMHS 8/03/22 - A great episode today with psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I reemerging from our afflictions of covid and spinal surgery. The emphasis is on valuing our relationships as a way of reducing our anxiety and living a meaningful life of growth and development.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 9692022-03-081h 07Men's Mental Health ShowEp 78 - Wellness in older ageMMHS 15/02/22 - With psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and war veteran Blue Phillips on the show this week we discuss how to improve wellness in old age: the difference between good and bad stress, passions in retirement, importance of stable relationships, looking after your physical health, taking responsibility for your health and asking for help when you need it.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 9692022-02-151h 15Men's Mental Health ShowEp 77: Kindness and volunteeringMMHS 2/02/22 - With RFS volunteer Ron Green and Walk N Talk volunteer Garry Sims, we talk about the mental health benefits of volunteering such as social inclusion, as well as the need for men to deeply listen so that they build relationships and know what needs doing. Psychotherapist Boudi Maassen can be contacted on 0424 416 969. 2022-02-021h 09Men's Mental Health ShowEp 76 - Presence not status18/01/22 - For the first show back in 2022 we have guest Matt Tonk who psychotherapist Boudi Maassen aptly describes as a true existential troubadour. His music is a tribute to the recently passed Neil Duncan, a much loved local and inspirational one-handed saxophonist. Much talk about unconditional positive regard, delighting in other people's success, taking an affirmative strengths based approach to each other, letting go of grumblings with the world, being malleable, finding flow, taking temporal space...
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 9692022-01-181h 25BAND IT ABOUT - Podcast SeriesS2 E60 20 Questions in 2 minutes from Episodes 11 - 15: Drummers Lachie Durrans, Joe Turtur, John Reynolds, Bradley Polain, and Ben ToddMerry Christmas to all of my BAND IT ABOUT - Podcast Series listener's and guests. Having released an episode every week for over a year, and being busy working throughout the past month as Mrs Claus, I have decided to take a few weeks off from interviewing. I am using this break as an opportunity to allow new listeners to catch up on the many episodes that are available, and will be releasing mini episodes by repurposing the 20 Questions in 2 minutes segment from my earlier interviews. I realise that due to the length of some of the interviews that...2021-12-2416 minMen's Mental Health ShowEp 75 - Fellowship in difficult timesMMHS 7/12/21 - In this final episode of the year, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen, Blue Phillips and I discuss the challenging external realities of our times and upcoming Christmas with the only suggestions for the sense of fear and division to be getting involved non judgementally.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 969 2021-12-0700 minMen's Mental Health ShowEp 74 - Fathering with wisdom30/11/21 - In this father and son episode with Geoff and eighteen year old Kieran, Boudi Maassen and I talk about the realities and opportunities in fathering done well - bonding, humility, attentiveness, focussing on felt experience more than status symbols, journeying and ultimately becoming wise.
Boudi Maassen - psychotherapist - 04244169692021-11-301h 11Men's Mental Health ShowEp 73 - Mental flexibilityMMHS 23/11/21 - With regular guest Blue Phillips back in the studio with psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I, we discuss using mental flexibility to find creative solutions to our present realities whether that be men breaking out of seeing everything in the world as an enemy, collectively regulating capitalism for the common good of the planet, individually finding new ways of being in our bodies and heart that allow us to function better or not fighting the technology that's now ubiquitous in society. A great poem by Boudi too.
Boudi Maassen - psychotherapist - 0424 416 9692021-11-231h 15Men's Mental Health ShowEp 72 - In solidarityWe are very privileged to have the lovely Suzie Van Opdorp share her insights from a life dedicated to helping those in need in our community, a journey with a personal beginning that she carries into her now political life. From managing the bustling Blue Mountains Women's Health Centre, to being an official visitor to inpatients with mental illness, doing case work for MP Trish Doyle, establishing the Blue Fringe Festival Art prize for people with mental illness, and contributing to the Head to Health Initiative, Suzie has a wealth of insight into the difficulties faced by those with men...2021-11-1658 minMen's Mental Health ShowEp 71 - Reverence for lifePsychotherapist Boudi Maassen covers all the pieces of the self care pie in this episode - exercise, sleep, investing in relationship, self knowledge, partnering with our doctor and doing our part when the ball is in our court, resurrecting down time for wind wandering, journalling, hobbies and goals. Boudi Maassen is available for psychotherapy in Wentworth Falls or via zoom and can be contacted on 0424 416 969.
2021-11-091h 11Men's Mental Health ShowEp 70 - Relationship repairPsychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I talk with Geoff Stodartt, local facilitator of Men's Table, about guidelines for good communication, how not to bottle things up and go off like a firecracker or withdraw, humble pie and remembering our obligations not just our rights.
Boudi Maassen - 04244169692021-11-021h 07
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 69: Responding to childhood traumaIn this episode of the show with psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and musician and school principal Nic Danta, we discuss how to deal with childhood trauma, which can come from anything from parents divorcing, witnessing domestic abuse, experiencing abuse, or significant childhood illness. In particular, Nic explains trauma informed practice in his school because children whose brains are in trauma mode aren't receptive to learning until they are coregulated with empathic teachers. Further, Boudi explains how adults can respond to trauma in their partners.
Boudi - 0424 416 9692021-10-261h 21
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 68- Boudster MasterpiecePsychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I are delighted to be back in the studio and on air this week. Boudi has had a lot to say about status anxiety, neurodiversity and the burden of trying to be normal, how breakdowns can become breakthroughs, dissolving misogyny, seeking help with relationships early, regulating emotions and creating safety for all.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 969
2021-10-1959 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 67- Domestic violence has no genderMMHS 5/10/21 - In this episode, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I talk with mother Karen Brokenshire who tragically lost her son Dylan to suicide after becoming the victim of domestic violence. If men like this are considered deaths by suicide, the whole story of domestic violence may not be reflected accurately in the commonly cited statistics. Perhaps domestic violence isn't so much a gender issue as a human issue.
Boudi Maassen - 04244169692021-10-111h 13
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 66: Being true to yourselfMMHS 28/9/21 - In this episode of the Men's Mental Health Show, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and myself talk to a father and son about dealing with impulse control disorder. Being honest with yourself is important after losing your way, as well as not being too quick to shed shame and guilt as they have a protective function against making the same mistakes again.
Boudi Maassen - 04244169692021-10-051h 15
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 65: Intergenerational responsibilityIn this week's episode, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I talk with Nic Danta, Penrith Valley Learning Centre Principal and Shannon Patrick Decker, business owner of Now and Zen landscaping about intergenerational responsibility. In his business, Shannon aims for timeless structures that will last long into the future and he talks about transitioning into the workforce with the help of his parents. In his position as Principal of Penrith Valley Learning Centre, Nic encounters the problem of intergenerational unemployment and the importance of guiding adolescents onto the right path.
2021-09-271h 13
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 64: Music and poetry
A special episode this week with musicians Matt Tonks and Nic Danta discussing music creation with Boudi Maassen, psychotherapist and poet. Watch a video clip of Nic Danta's song Black dog here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QH6fAjXLy3A
Boudi Maassen - 0424416969
2021-09-201h 00
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 63: Ladies showMMHS 7/09/21 - In this episode of the Men's Mental Health Show, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I get some women's perspectives whilst talking to Penny Holbrook and Eleni Psillakis. We brainstorm ideas for tackling domestic violence and how to identify when you are in a violent relationship as well as how to help someone who you are worried about and practising self care.
2021-09-131h 10
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 62: Show them loveIn this episode of the Men's Mental Health Show with Craig Ball, Afghanistan war veteran, singer/songwriter Nic Danta, and psychotherapist Boudi Maassen, we talk about healing trauma in kids, the Afghanistan war, and personal development.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 969
2021-09-0658 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 61: Rehab and recoveryMMHS 26/08/21 - In this episode of the Men's Mental Health Show, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I talk with recovering drug addict Lachlan about his experiences and lessons through drug rehabilitation. We are given a rare glimpse into the type of childhood experiences that might lead to drug use and the struggles of keeping on the path of recovery.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 9692021-08-3057 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 60- Life in lockdownAfter a few months of being in lockdown, Boudi Maassen and I are back with Garry Sims, recording via zoom and with thoughts on how to make sense of our experiences during this difficult time.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 16 9692021-08-2353 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 59 - There for the long haulMMHS 22/07/21 - In this episode of the Men's Mental Health Show, we have special guest Gavin Cliff, brother of recently passed Megan Cliff, sharing his family's experience of mental illness and grief, along with music and input from musician Nic Danta
and insight from psychotherapist Boudi Maassen
. We examine the barriers to seeking help, such as stigma and not treating mental illness like the life threatening illness it can be.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 969
2021-06-221h 38
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 58 - The best kind of speechIn today's episode of the Men's Mental Health Show, musician Matt Tonks shares some new music, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen shares some poetry and the topic is around the best kind of speech - speech that is honest, comes from a place of love and is free from gossip.
Boudi Maassen - psychotherapist - 0424 416 969.
2021-06-151h 40
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 57 - SurrenderMMHS 8/06/21 - In today's episode with Buruberongal and Warmali woman Melissa Stubbings and Stand Up Comedian Leon Anderson we cover the need to surrender when we want to get help for addictions, pausing when we are agitated, drawing upon sources of inspiration, treading lightly on country and that it's okay for men and women to have their differences.
Boudi Maassen - psychotherapist - 04244169692021-06-081h 28
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 56 - Mental health first aidIn today's episode of the Men's Mental Health Show, regular guests Penny Holbrook and Blue Phillips discuss new and emerging approaches to mental health crises including the PACER program, which involves trained mental health clinicians attending triple zero callouts for mental health and dedicated courses for mental health first aid.
Boudi Maassen, psychotherapist - 0424 416 969
Music by the Swooping Magpies, local band
2021-06-021h 37
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 55 - Forgiveness, acceptance and letting goMMHS 18/05/21 - In this episode with RUOK ambassador Garry CInsp G Sims and psychotherapist Boudi Maassen, we discuss forgiveness and acceptance, as well as the challenges of letting go of cherished people and projects and even outdated language and ideas.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 969
2021-05-191h 19
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 54: How to be a good fatherOn today's episode of MMHS with the esteemed presenter of the morning show on Radio Blue Mountains Ron Green, we discuss his son coming out to him at the age of of 24 and his immediate instinct of protection and later involvement in the organisation PFLAG - Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. The way he talks about his son's sexuality as enriching his life is a true inspiration.
www.pflagaustralia.org.au
on Facebook - IDAHOBIT Blue Mountains for 2021 events for International day against homophobia, biphobia, inter phobia and transphobia starting next Sunday 16th May2021-05-141h 08
Men's Mental Health ShowE 54 - SofteningMMHS 4/5/21 - In today's episode with psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and mental health speaker Craig Ball, we discuss the concept of softening as a positive movement for men to be more aware of their inner life and comfortable talking about their emotions. I also do a role play using my past experiences of shame and dread in relation to gambling.
Boudi Maassen - 0424416969
Craig Ball - Men's Mental Health Transformation Facebook group2021-05-051h 32
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 53 - Finding your voiceMMHS 27/04/21 - For the first time, Boudi Maassen, psychotherapist, hosts the Men's Mental Health Show due to losing my voice, and Nic Danta inputs with his original music and life experiences. We explore concepts of becoming a good ancestor, the importance of relationships, the power of words, threshold moments of change and dealing with trauma.
Boudi Maassen, psychotherapist - 0424 416 969
Nic Danta - music on bandcamp
2021-04-281h 31
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 52 - Still I riseMMHS 20/04/21 - Today's guest is everything a man should be - honest with yourself, taking ownership of your actions, vulnerable and caring. Adam Miller shares his journey with us and shows what a difference kindness makes. Apologies for some short breaks in the recording and remember to reach out should this episode trigger you.
Boudi Maassen - 04244169692021-04-201h 24
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 51 - Second chancesMMHS 30/03/21 - This week we have a champion of a bloke in Glen Collis join psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and myself. Now a senior drug and alcohol counsellor at the The Glen Centre on the Central Coast, Glen has overcome his own difficulties of drinking and drugging to block out childhood scars and fit in the egotistical world of champion boxing. He's still a fighter, fighting for the underdog, but not with his hands anymore. He is an inspirational Aboriginal fella with so much wisdom to share.
Boudi Maassen - psychotherapist - 0424416969.2021-03-301h 19
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 50 - From loss to learningMMHS 23/03/21 - On the 50th episode of the Men's Mental Health Show, we reflect on the essence of the show - strength through vulnerability, asking RUOK, reaching out, finding language to talk about our emotions, importance of purpose, removing stigma, developing prosocial qualities of empathy, compassion and altruism.
Find Matt Tonks' music on iTunes or band camp.
Reach Boudi Maassen, psychotherapist, on 0424416969.2021-03-231h 27
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 49: unconditional respectMMHS 16/3/21 - In today's great show with Nic Danta, Craig Ball, Boudi Maassen and myself, we discuss the importance of accepting ourselves unconditionally irrespective of success or failure, and how to bring about a profound change of heart and real change, in particularly unconditional regard for others.
Craig Ball - www.changeseminars.com, info@changeseminars.com, mens mental health transformation facebook group
Nic Danta - bandcamp and YouTube (black dog)
Boudi Maassen - 0424416969
2021-03-161h 27
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 48 - Wise being - being wiseMMHS 9/3/21 - A great show today guys with special guest Geoffrey Stoddart, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and myself. We discuss wisdom journeys, resourcing and challenging yourself, relating in an authentic way, father and son camps, and the men's table.
Habitus father and son camp - March 27-28 in Kiama - contact@habitus.org
The Men's Table - www.themenstable.org
Boudi Maassen - 0424416969
2021-03-091h 26
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 47: maturing and elder-ingMMHS 2/3/21 - A great show today with amazing music by Sam Samantha Sly, team member Blue Phillips, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and myself. We discuss everything from emotional health, group stages (forming, storming, performing and mourning), maintaining fitness especially as we age, being prepared for the what ifs in life, working as a team in relationships and finding a source of consolation.
Boudi Maassen - psychotherapist 0424 416 969.2021-03-021h 36
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 46: Grounded in the presentMMHS 9/02/21 - In this first episode for 2021, I am joined by Boudi Maassen, psychotherapist, Garry Sims, R U OK ambassador and community policeman, and Nic Danta, singer, songwriter and school principal. We discuss how we make it through personal struggles, this age of uncertainty or complex problems of our time- anchoring, controlling the things we can control and most importantly being responsive to the signs of struggle in others and making our community a place of refuge.
Suicide call back service - 1300 659 467.
2021-02-091h 29
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 45: courtship and unionMMHS 8/12/20 - In this episode, Chris Zumwalt and his wife Rachael Brady tell the amazing story of their meeting and journey together, with insights from psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and beautiful music by Rachael Brady.
Chris Zumwalt - cz@zumwalty.com, mentoring and coaching
Rachael Brady - check out on iTunes
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 969, psychotherapist2020-12-091h 46
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 44: A stigma-less worldMMHS 1/12.20 - In today's show with experienced mental health advocate Nic Newling, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and musician Matt Tonks, we discuss listening without judgement and recreating the therapeutic atmosphere of a psych ward in the wider community so that we can do away with stigma. In particularly, having respect for each other's struggles without it needing to take a suicide to make people take caring seriously.
Nic Newling, mental health advocate and guest speaker - www.thechampions.org
Boudi Maassen, psychotherapist Wentworth Falls - 0424 416 9692020-12-011h 49
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 43: Mental hygieneMMHS 24/11/20 - Garry Sims, RUOK ambassador, talks with Boudi Maassen, psychotherapist, and myself about mental hygiene, things we can do to look after our wellbeing such as good sleep, restricting screen time, being grateful, being kind, being in the moment, achievement activities and positive engagement in the community. Also, looking after each other, we can appreciate our uniqueness, remember anniversaries that may trigger people's emotions, know people and their normal so we can recognise when they are struggling and knowing people's consolations or protective factors. In Garry's words "people aren't a burden, we can carry them through hard times", a...2020-11-241h 22
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 42: Lived experience ladies showMMHS 18/11/20 - On today's special ladies edition of the Men's Mental Health Show we have the incredible Bronnie Spitz hosting, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen's valuable input as always and two inspirational women - Penny Holbrook and Eleni Psillakis - sharing their lived experience of mental illness and how they now contribute to the community. Penny's story provides insight into the kinds of events that can trigger suicidal ideation including sexual harassment and suicide in the family, as well as how the support of family and private clinics have helped her to regain her zest for life. Eleni talks about the...2020-11-201h 44
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 42: Lived experience ladies showMMHS 18/11/20 - On today's special ladies edition of the Men's Mental Health Show we have the incredible Bronnie Spitz hosting, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen's valuable input as always and two inspirational women - Penny Holbrook and Eleni Psillakis - sharing their lived experience of mental illness and how they now contribute to the community. Penny's story provides insight into the kinds of events that can trigger suicidal ideation including sexual harassment and suicide in the family, as well as how the support of family and private clinics have helped her to regain her zest for life. Eleni talks...2020-11-1900 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 42: Lived experience ladies showMMHS 18/11/20 - On today's special ladies edition of the Men's Mental Health Show we have the incredible Bronnie Spitz hosting, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen's valuable input as always and two inspirational women - Penny Holbrook and Eleni Psillakis - sharing their lived experience of mental illness and how they now contribute to the community. Penny's story provides insight into the kinds of events that can trigger suicidal ideation including sexual harassment and suicide in the family, as well as how the support of family and private clinics have helped her to regain her zest for life. Eleni talks ab...2020-11-1800 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 41: Emotional Intelligence and existential dreadMMHS 10/11/20 - Phenomenal show today guys. Twelve year old Ace Evergreen shares her incredibly deep and soulful original music along with her mother Rachael, and today's guest Gary Caganoff shares stories of his travels both worldly and spiritual. Today's show is a great reminder that experiences of awakening can be emotionally tumultuous and appear like mental illness when another approach is called for. Importantly, anyone can open themselves to self realisation or alleviation of mental pain via the evidence based psychological technique of mindfulness (aka developing the observer).
Garry Caganoff - psychotherapist - 0419 972 427
Boudi Maassen...2020-11-101h 53
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 40: Lads and leadershipMMHS 3/11/20 - Today psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I are joined by Craig Ball and Blue Phillips, two retired veterans with experience in leadership and a passion for helping build resilience in men.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 969
Craig Ball - Men's Mental Health Transformation Facebook Group
Support after suicide - www.standbysupport.com.au2020-11-031h 36
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 39: Family estrangementMHS 27/10/20 - A bobby dazzler of a show today guys. Boudi Maassen, Matt Tonks and I have a deep and meaningful discussion about family estrangement and the techniques we can use to deal with it and hopefully overcome seemingly irreconcilable differences. I talk about not holding grudges, making amends and persistence in showing your love. Matt talks about good listening and embracing imperfection. Boudi encourages us to be in the moment because it allows you to disengage from your wounded self. So much wisdom in today's show.
A reminder too that if you sign up to the websi...2020-10-271h 38
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 38: Love and lossMMHS 13/10/20 - Awesome show today guys with Paul Sims, Nic Danta and Boudi Maassen. Paul is an amazing man whose overarching message is "there's no greater asset in the world than your friends and acquaintances." A great reminder to look out for each other and value the meaningful conversations we can have when we put people first.
Boudi Maassen -0424416969.2020-10-131h 38
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 37: Post traumatic Growth (audio problem fixed)MMHS 29/09/20- In this special edition of the Men's Mental Health Show, Craig Ball, ADF veteran and men's mentor, joins Boudi Maassen , Matt Tonks and I for a talk on how to grow through trauma and pain. Unlike the term resilience, which most people understand as bouncing back, the term post traumatic growth encapsulates the idea that we are never the same again after such shifting life events but we can be better versions of ourself.
Boudi Maassen (psychotherapist)- 0424 416 969.
Craig's Facebook Group- Men's Mental Health Transformation, also www.changeseminars.com
Matt's Music...2020-09-301h 38
Men's Mental Health ShowE 37: Post traumatic growthMMHS 29/09/20 - In this special edition of the Men's Mental Health Show, Craig Ball, ADF veteran and men's mentor, joins Boudi Maassen , Matt Tonks and I for a talk on how to grow through trauma and pain. Unlike the term resilience, which most people understand as bouncing back, the term post traumatic growth encapsulates the idea that we are never the same again after such shifting life events but we can be better versions of ourself.
Boudi Maassen (psychotherapist)- 0424 416 969.
Craig's Facebook Group- Men's Mental Health Transformation, also www.changeseminars.com
Matt...2020-09-291h 29
Men's Mental Health ShowEp36: Embracing change22/09/20 - Together with psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and Chief Inspector Garry Sims we talk about how people deal with change, whether it be to find a voice after a period of being mute, choosing not to follow a family pattern of suicide, reconnecting with family we've been estranged from, or adjusting to rules we never would have imagined pre-pandemic.
Boudi Maassen - 0424 416 9692020-09-221h 05
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 35: The Longevity of RelationshipsMMHS 15/09/20 - With Blue Phillips recently celebrating his 50th wedding anniversary, on this 35th episode of the MMHS , Boudi Maassen, Blue Phillips and I discuss the longevity of relationships. Blue credits his approach of family first rather than duty first for their success, and I too see not having the right priorities as contributing to my marriage breakdown. Boudi talks about the need to develop respective complexity journeys in a relationship as opposed to codependency to avoid a buildup of resentment. Other topics covered include financial honesty, division of work in the family, pulling your weight and our gender history...2020-09-161h 21
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 34: Suicide prevention and transcendenceMMHS 8/9/20 - Today psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I talk about what helps prevent suicide when helping someone (even if that someone is yourself): not allowing yourself to be pushed away, making a contractual agreement, allowing time for trauma to subside, providing an opportunity for transcendence to occur, finding a sense of meaning, redefining what success is from accumulating wealth to attaining internal wellbeing or an ability to sit still and comfortably with the inevitable disappointments in life.
Also, remember to always reach out and seek help should you need to.
Boudi Maassen 0424 416 969.2020-09-081h 24
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 33: DV and becoming better menMMHS 1/09/20 - In this edition of the Men's Mental Health Show Boudi Maassen and I are joined by Christopher Smith, a Community Development Coordinator at Belong Neighbourhood Centre and part of a group called Mountain Men Against Violence. In addressing the issue of domestic violence, we talk about men reaching out for help to change their behaviour, taking their armour off, dealing with shame, identifying a sense of entitlement, saying sorry, learning from mistakes and ultimately becoming better men.
Boudi Maassen, psychotherapist, Wentworth Falls, 0424-416-9692020-09-011h 17
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 32: Unity and communityMMHS 25/08/20 - For this episode of the Men's Mental Health Show we are honoured to have Gundungurra elder David King joining us again and welcoming us to country. For the first time on the show Matt Tonks brings his keyboard along for his live performance. Together with psychotherapist Boudi Maassen we talk about the importance of connection, belonging, not judging and being antiracist.
Your GP should be your first point of contact to rule our physical health issues, set up a Mental Health Plan for psychology, refer you to a psychiatrist or prescribe medication should you need he...2020-08-251h 27
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 31: Self forgivenessMMHS 18/08/2020 - In this episode of MMHS with just Boudi Maassen and I, Boudi explains the four steps of self forgiveness: responsibility, remorse, restoration and renewal. Boudi also reads some poems including one by Matt Tonks.
Boudi Maassen - 0424-416-969.2020-08-201h 22
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 1: Suicide - Starting the conversationHere is the first episode of the Men's Mental Health show. So grateful to my guests Wes and Andrew. It's a pretty nervous start but onwards and upwards from here. Very proud to have had my brother Dan do the theme song too. We talk about lifeline's accidental counselling course, and the most powerful message Wes learnt from the presenter of that course Liz White is it doesn't matter what you say but that you are listening and coming from a place of love.2020-08-0847 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 2: Living with autismAnother amazing show today. A huge thanks to this guy Benji Young who's a single father of two boys with autism and himself has Aspergers, ADHD and PTSD. This episode provides an insight into autism and the stigma that surrounds it. Benji is nothing short of inspirational; his courage, determination and just general way of getting about life gives us all strength and hope.2020-08-0845 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 3: Living with BipolarIn this episode I'm way out of my comfort zone, on air by myself, talking about myself and being very raw. I share my life story including denial of my diagnosis and self medication, through various clinic admissions and a suicide attempt to eventual arrival at a place of acceptance and how the right medication has changed my life. I'm living proof that people can change, that if you seek and accept help things can get better, that there is hope.2020-08-0859 min
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 4: Cuzza CanesHaving formed an entire winter cricket club after the loss of Andre Curry, the Cuzza Canes show us all how to create camaraderie and positivity out of something so devastating. This episode isn’t one to miss. There are many life lessons here that could potentially help each and everyone of us. Steve Curry, Andre’s brother, speaks from the heart and his words are raw and so incredibly insightful for a man who lives with the pain of his brothers loss each and every day but somehow manages to speak in a way that we can all learn what Ment...2020-08-081h 18
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 16: Inspiration and determinationIntroducing the remarkable and wonderful Kathryn Gene, a qualified naturopath, hypnotherapist and mother of five. As a young mother Kathryn was diagnosed with agoraphobia but instead of letting her anxiety and panic attacks get a hold of her life, Kathryn began a journey of introspection to conquer her demons. We are joined by regular guests RU-OK? ambassador Garry Sims and local muso Nic Danta.2020-08-081h 31
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 17: All of Life's LessonsToday our guest is Blue Phillips, an ex-serviceman who spent more than fifty years in the army. He shares his life's lessons with us along with insights from local psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and local muso and school principal Nic Danta.2020-08-081h 33
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 19: FatheringI speak with psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and local muso Nic Danta about fathering starting with the birth of our children and looking at the various stages of growing up. We also reflect on our own upbringing and relationship with our fathers throughout life, as well as the power of awe.2020-08-081h 38
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 18: Domestic violenceThis week psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and veteran of 50 years military service Blue Phillips talk with me about domestic violence and men's relationships with women, along with music from local muso Nic Danta.2020-08-081h 34
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 9: Adversity and resilienceWe talk about adversity and mentoring with Pete Palmer, coach of the under 20s North Sydney Bears, Garry Sims, RUOK ambassador, and Nic Danta, principal of the Penrith Valley Learning Centre and this week's singer/songwriter. In response to Nic's song about his friend who took her life, Garry makes the point that everyone's life is valuable. He says he will also be giving an RUOK presentation at the biennial NSW Police Force Aboriginal employees conference at Goulbourn later in the year because Indigenous rates of suicide are higher than the rest of the community. Pete also discloses that his...2020-08-041h 17
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 8: PsychotherapyPsychotherapist Boudi Maassen and I demonstrate how psychotherapy works with the aim of helping men understand that therapy is not too uncomfortable or frustrating once you’ve developed some rapport, and to hopefully encourage more men to seek help. Matt as always blends his soul soothing tunes in the breaks, as well as providing, like Boudi, his invaluable input and questions such as that about the difference between psychology and psychotherapy.2020-08-041h 40
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 7: Walk N Talk for LifeThis is a special edition of the Men's Mental Health Show following the inaugural Blackheath Walk N Talk for Life. It gave me great pleasure to have Shannon Nevin on the show along with Garry Sims, R U OK? ambassador, and Matt Tonk with his amazing music. All these men are living proof that by spreading kindness and taking whatever action we are good at, we can have an impact and save lives.2020-08-041h 23
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 6: Psychotherapy perspectivesPsychotherapists Boudi Maassen and Robin Woodsford share their perspective of men's mental health, with live music by Matt Tonks. These two Kiwi lads have worked in the industry for a very long time and have great insight. Matt asks "do men not have the language to talk about their inner world or are they too scared to be vulnerable enough to use language to talk about their inner world?" As far as tools go for getting out of the rumination loop, we discuss the importance of connection, service/volunteering and exercise.2020-08-041h 45
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 5: Living with treatment resistant depressionMeet Creese Syred, The Tattooed Tradesman. Creese came from an abusive and violent upbringing and moved several times as a child starting from England to Australia, then from Bondi to life in the hardened western suburbs of Sydney. Creese shares his story on what it’s been like living with depression, including a suicide attempt in 2004, and how medication and a sustainable healthy relationship with his love Jane has made his love of living. He’s a real character to say the least folks.2020-08-041h 28
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 15: Helping someone who is strugglingToday, psychotherapist Boudi Maassen, Chief Inspector Garry Sims, local muso and school principal Nic Danta and myself as host discuss how to help someone who is struggling, which is the essence of the RUOK movement of which Garry is an ambassador. Bradley talks about coming from a place of love and being nonjudgemental. Boudi stresses not trying to offer solutions but rather ask questions like "What has helped you in the past?" Garry talks about knowing the signs and being on the lookout for them, and Nic talks about importance of debriefing and looking out for each other. Doctors are...2020-07-271h 39
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 14: Resilience and recoveryPsychotherapist Boudi Maassen, Chief Inspector Garry Sims and local folk artist Nic Danta discuss resilience and recovery in relation to the recent catastrophic fires. Photo: RFS fireman Sean Clapham2020-07-271h 17
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 13: Post Traumatic Stress DisorderOur guest this week is Matt Ranson, ex police officer and current disability service taxi driver, a remarkable man who found freedom from his post traumatic stress disorder through helping others. We are also joined by Gary Simms, Chief Inspector and mental health advocate, as well as Matt Tonks who performs live music.2020-07-271h 30
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 12: Paying it forwardToday I am joined by wellness advocate Penny Holbrook who talks about her lived experience of bipolar, as well as musicians Matt Tonks and the delightful Felicity Tonks. Penny talks about her troubled upbringing, and her experience of going to a clinic at 41 years of age to learn skills to manage her bipolar and learn to love herself. Felicity celebrates good men and credits men for coming on the show to have real conversations.2020-07-271h 45
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 11: Father and sonToday I am joined by a phenomenal teenager Sax Nevin along with his father Shannon Nevin and psychotherapist Boudi Maassen. Live music and commentary by Matt Tonks once again.2020-07-271h 42
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 10: Picking yourself upToday's guest is Jamie Gray who shares his own battles with depression, and all things musical with Matt Tonks. I’ve known Jamie since my school years and he is now a professional photographer and the Content Editor at the Mayne Media Group. The passing of one of his best friends to depression 3 yrs ago along with his own personal challenges has added to his personal growth and development. Jamie is about to undertake several key projects which are aimed at redefining how Mainstream media embraces mental health.
In memory of Tyson Williams.2020-07-271h 34
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 21: Anzac SpecialOn this Anzac special of the MMHS, I'm joined by local war veteran Blue Phillips who gave over 50 years of service to his country. We talk about military history, these crazy times and how we are coping with the challenges in our lives. Blue recites an emotional poem too.2020-07-111h 18
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 24: Coping with PTSDToday I speak with Matt Ransom and Marty, two retired policemen who talk about their journey with PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). From the incidents that haunt them to the moment they realise they have a problem, the treatments that have helped and the 'secondary PTSD' their families have suffered, their stories teach us so much about where we have come from and what we still need to do to deal with this unfortunate aspect of working on the frontline. Unfortunately only three people allowed in the studio today so Boudi had to miss this show.2020-07-111h 20
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 23: Regulating emotionsToday I am joined by local psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and his patient of fourteen years Shannon Decker who talks about what he has learned through psychotherapy. We also talk about resistance to getting help and the benefits of things like group work, such as those offered through Relationships Australia, and just listening. Shannon also talks about how he has come to love and channel his manic energy, whilst Boudi talks about embracing our neurodiversity.2020-07-111h 30
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 22: Life past covidRecognising that what's going on in the world impacts on our mental health, local psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and former General Blue Phillips talk with me about how Covid19 is changing us, as well as how we need to take ownership of our own growth, be a role model to our children and reach out to others.2020-07-111h 29
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 20: Distant father and son relationshipsLong distance father and son relationships. Today my son Jeremy joins me for a chat with local psychotherapist Boudi Maassen. We talk about how fathering works in broken families and from a distance.2020-07-111h 21
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 29: Rising to the challengeToday Boudi Maassen (psychotherapist) and I talk to Blue Phillips, former General in the Army, about how he has used adventure training to prepare soldiers for adversity, to build resilience, and extend the stress threshold. These challenging group situations mimic society at large where those who are doing well are required not to show off but to show care for those who need a helping hand. Blue tells a great story about a shy, young Aboriginal lady whose natural leadership skills blossomed in a dangerous white water rafting expedition. Boudi talks about debriefing as a pot of gold and how...2020-07-081h 31
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 28: Anxiety about uncertaintyWe are blessed to have singer/songwriter/music teacher Matt Tonks provide live music for us once again, and together with Boudi Maassen (psychotherapist) we discuss how to deal with crisis and preventing a spike in suicide from financial stress and the challenges of our time. Along with medication for depression, we discuss strategies of mental hygiene that are so important such as getting to know our demons, practicing self love, connecting with your tribe, constructing a future and being true to the life you want to live.2020-07-081h 41
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 27: Zoe's storyAlong with psychotherapist Boudi Maassen and former General in the military Blue Phillips, this week's special guest is young Zoe Taylor. Zoe courageously shares her story with mental health issues through school and what has helped her including teaching underprivileged children in Thailand. A moving poem by Bradley too.2020-07-081h 19
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 26: Managing painToday's guests Boudi Maassen (psychotherapist) and Kathryn Gene (hypnotherapist and naturopath) discuss self care strategies for managing pain, both physical and mental, after a challenging week for myself. Topics include: starting therapy, diet, growing wellness, deciding what to focus on, importance of connection, meditation, nourishment from reading, gardening, walking, movement, pleasure of companionship, acts of kindness and distraction. Boudi also shares a moving poem he wrote following on from a show we did with my son about a month ago.2020-07-081h 26
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 25: ConnectionToday my amazing team are altogether for the first time: Boudi Maassen (Psychotherapist), Garry Sims (Chief Inspector) and Blue Phillips (retired Army General), and how we connect in this day and age is a theme that emerges. Starting with Garry's involvement in the health connector website, which coordinates health services for locals, we go on to discuss recognising our Indigenous community because as Garry says "we have to look backwards in order to know where we're going in the future". We go on to discuss the impact of isolation in the time of Covid19 and also discuss the essence of...2020-07-081h 29
Men's Mental Health ShowEp 30: BelongingAlong with regular guests Garry Sims (Chief Inspector and RUOK? ambassador) and Boudi Maassen (psychotherapist), today we are joined for the first time by David King, a Gundungurra elder and self-professed weeder and tea drinker. The aim of today's show was to create a sense of unity, have a good yarn and explore what makes us feel like we belong. In light of the recent Black Lives Matter movement and the lack of progress since the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, we contemplate what it would take to see the change we need.
Big thanks to all our...2020-07-011h 40