Shows
The Mindful Men Podcast139. Knowing Our LimitsWelcome to Episode 139 – Knowing Our Limits
Happy birthday to Mindful Men! Yes, this episode coincides with the 2nd birthday of our therapy services, the 1stbirthday of our Facebook Community, and also… 1 year sober for yours truly (yay I did it!).
To mark the occasion, we’re reflecting on what’s happening behind the scenes at Mindful Men – and more importantly – we talk about how knowing our limits can help us pivot from the path we’re on. Hitting the limit has been a theme of my therapy sessions of late (and my personal life...2024-08-1927 minThe Mindful Men Podcast138. Going Loco with Georgia and AmandaWelcome to Episode 138 – Going Loco with Georgia and Amanda
Discussions about mental health can be heavy, draining, challenging and outright depressing. And this is why so many people shy away from them. But they can also be insightful, uplifting and even… funny! In fact humour is a great way to engage with mental health discussions because it lifts the mood on issues that can be weighing us down.
And this is exactly what Georgia and Amanda do with The Going Loco Podcast. Georgia and Amanda are two mates on a mission – talking a...2024-08-1255 minThe Mindful Men Podcast137. Surviving Stage 3 Cancer with Savio P. ClementeWelcome to Episode 137 – Surviving Stage 3 Cancer with Savio P. Clemente
Our mindset determines how we cope when facing adversity. Some of us get stuck in the negativity, whilst others rise up to the challenge… and this week’s guest on The Mindful Men Podcast shows us exactly how he rose to the challenge of a stage 3 blood cancer diagnosis.
Savio P. Clemente is a TEDx Speaker, Journalist, Coach, and Author and stage 3 blood cancer survivor. He shares his journey, including the power of positive mindset and how he now uses his pain for p...2024-08-0540 minThe Mindful Men Podcast136. Non-Monogamy Relationships with Paige BondWelcome to Episode 136 – Non-Monogamy Relationships with Paige Bond
When we think of relationships, our societal default is that its two people who are mutually exclusive. So what happens if our partner – or even ourselves – want more than mutual exclusivity? Enter the world of non-monogamous relationships.
This week I’m sitting down with relational psychotherapist and non-monogamy coach Paige Bond. Paige is an expert in non-monogamous relationships, and helps us to understand the challenges couples face in non-monogamous relationships. We dive into some BIG topics like jealousy, conflict resolution, improving communication and finding the...2024-07-2937 minThe Mindful Men Podcast135. Redefining success with Matthew JodouinWelcome to Episode 135 – Redefining success with Matthew Jodouin
When we think of success, we often associate it with success at work. We climb the ladder, or land the big deal… but success is so much more than what we do in our career. Success extends to family, friends, relationships. It is developed over time, and is not simply the end goal – but the growth we achieve throughout the journey.
Helping us to put this into perspective, is a fellow mindful man, Matt Jodouin. Matt is a husband and father, mentor, men’s coach, spe...2024-07-2253 minThe Mindful Men Podcast134. Hope (Hold On Pain Ends)Welcome to Episode 134 - Hope (Hold On Pain Ends)
Over the last 6-12 months, there have been a whole range of things going on that have been slowly weighing me down. And it all came to a head recently after a phone conversation that triggered me big time. The phone call had me feeling helpless, and I broke down. I could no longer hold things together, and the emotions all came out.
But as the tears dried, I started to reflect on Hope. A good friend of mine Kerrie Atherton always tal...2024-07-1520 minThe Mindful Men Podcast133. Life as a Trans Man with Carlos MunezWelcome to Episode 133 - Life as a Trans Man with Carlos Munez
Imagine being born into a body that didn’t feel right. On the outside, your adopted mother called you her “Incan princess”, but on the inside you were a boy wanting to become a man. This was the experience of Carlos Munez.
Carlos was born in Peru, and moved to the UK after being adopted. This in itself can raise significant questions about one’s place in the world, and for Carlos this was amplified by questions about his gender...2024-07-0844 minThe Mindful Men Podcast132. Grief through losing a loved one with Katie RösslerWelcome to Episode 132 - Grief through losing a loved one with Katie Rössler
Grief is a complex topic, and one that is often associated with the loss of a loved one. However grief can show up in different ways, and doesn’t have to associated with death. And like our mental health, no two people experience grief in the same way.
Helping us unpack this BIG topic is licensed therapist Katie Rössler. Katie shares her personal experience of losing a parent and experiencing multiple miscarriages. We discuss hidden grief and how m...2024-07-0152 minThe Mindful Men Podcast131. Neurodiversity and Autism with Caitlin Hughes and Teena MoglerWelcome to Episode 131 - Neurodiversity and Autism with Caitlin Hughes and Teena Mogler
Neurodiversity is becoming increasingly recognised in our community, and I’m hearing more and more stories of adults getting late diagnosed Autism and ADHD (often after our children have been diagnosed). What I didn’t realise is that other conditions fall under the neurodiversity umbrella – including OCD!
So this week we’re exploring neurodiversity and what it means to have a neurodiversity affirming therapy practice – with a specific focus on Autism. And helping me unpack this huge topic is Accr...2024-06-2458 minThe Mindful Men Podcast130. Mediocre Dads with Queon WilcoxWelcome to Episode 130 - Mediocre Dads with Queon Wilcox
Parenting is hard at best. Juggling all of life’s needs whilst trying to be the best dad you can be is a challenge. But imagine if that challenge was amplified by not being able to be with you kids every day?
This is the challenge of Queon Wilcox, a proud family man and Sergeant in the United States Army. Queon shares his passion for fatherhood, and the strategies he uses when away for work. From gym sessions to late night phone calls...2024-06-1756 minThe Mindful Men Podcast129. Mens Health WeekWelcome to Episode 129 - Mens Health Week
June 10th-16th is Mens Health Week here in Australia, and coincides with Mens Mental Health Month across the globe. And to promote these initiatives across the globe, I thought I would chat about the most commonly asked question I receive – “how do I get this man I know into therapy?”
This is a really challenging question, because the answer isn’t simple. Its not easy when the man in your life isn’t ready for therapy. And theres a range of reasons for this, includin...2024-06-1016 minThe Mindful Men Podcast128. Private practice social work with Tammy RocheWelcome to Episode 128 - Private practice social work with Tammy Roche
There’s immense freedom that comes with starting a small business, but that freedom comes at a cost. You’re wearing multiple hats from doing the therapy to marketing, to admin, finances, legal, health and safety… and so much more. The time freedom you yearned for coming into private practice is often exchanged for longer hours, fear and the unknown.
And this might sound daunting (and trust me it is!), but it’s also rewarding. Watching something blossom from nothing but your hard...2024-06-0344 minThe Mindful Men Podcast127. Beat the Sunday bluesWelcome to Episode 127 - Beat the Sunday blues
Have you ever got to lunchtime on Sunday and then felt this overwhelming sense of dread come over you? Has the thought of the week ahead made you feel anxious, stressed, depressed or just “meh”? And once those thoughts come in, did you find it hard to relax and enjoy the rest of your weekend?
Many of us can answer yes to all these questions – and whilst this is not a clinical diagnosis of anything… you may just have those Sunday Blues!
2024-05-2721 minThe Mindful Men Podcast126. Muscular Dystrophy with Rhiannon AndersonWelcome to Episode 126 - Muscular Dystrophy with Rhiannon Anderson
Imagine your three year old daughter is in hospital, and recovering from surgery. The doctor enters the room and tells you she has been diagnosed with a genetic disorder that has no cure; and she would be lucky to survive until her 19th birthday.
This is the story of Rhiannon Anderson; a law graduate, life coach and public speaker from Toowoomba in QLD. Rhiannon shares her story of living with Muscular Dystrophy, the physical and mental impacts, and how disability has shaped her l...2024-05-2057 minThe Mindful Men Podcast125. Unstoppable Dads with Matt NoonanWelcome to Episode 125 - Unstoppable Dads with Matt Noonan
What does it take to be an unstoppable dad? This is the question that most of us dads ask ourselves in roundabout ways. Are we doing enough? Are we good enough? How can we be better?
The thing is… none of us received a manual on how to be a dad. We’re mostly going off intuition with a bit of support from other parents along the way. And this is good… but how do we be better?
Helpin...2024-05-1358 minThe Mindful Men Podcast124. Organisational Psychology with Clifford MorganWelcome to Episode 124 - Organisational Psychology with Clifford Morgan
Have you ever wondered why some workplaces are amazing places to be a part of, whilst others simply… suck? I have, and I’ve experienced both types of workplaces. And what I’ve come to understand is that workplace culture has a big part to play in how well an organisation operates.
Great workplaces have inspiring leaders, engaged employees, shared values and strong work ethics. They’re adaptable, efficient, and effective; but they don’t forget the human side of doing business. The challenge...2024-05-0657 minThe Mindful Men Podcast123. Is this helpful?Welcome to Episode 123 - Is this helpful?
Over the last few months, my mental health has been declining. Anxiety, stress and depression have been having a party, and this has had me re-visit my self-care and support systems.
One of the most crucial supports I’ve had is my business wellness coach. He has helped me to reflect on my thoughts, feelings and behaviours and ask myself “is this helpful?”. The more I ask myself this question, the easier it is for me to switch off my emotional brain, and switch o...2024-04-2933 minThe Mindful Men Podcast122. NDIS Support Coordination with Hannah RedfordWelcome to Episode 122 - NDIS Support Coordination with Hannah Redford
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a complex system for people living with disability to navigate. It’s not just about getting funding for disability supports. It’s also about finding and connecting with the right providers; and dealing with review processes that are stressful and often re-traumatising.
The role of a NDIS Support Coordinators is to help with this process; and joining me this week is Hannah Redford from Tulip Coordination. Hannah helps us to understand the NDIS, whilst sharing...2024-04-2253 min
Positively TerribleThat's When My OCD Went Into Overdrive - With SimonThis week's Decent Fucking Human is Simon Rinne. His fucked up story is about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Other topics in this episode include alcohol abuse, parental divorce, anxiety, masculinity, and a very professional intro. Simon suffered from undiagnosed obsessive-compulsive disorder for 20 years before he learned what it was or that he had it. It started when he was eight and a schoolmate told him that he'd lose his voice forever if he went more than a minute without using it. It would have been a harmless 8-year-old kind of prank for most of us, but for S...2024-04-1859 minThe Mindful Men Podcast121. I Survived A Hate Crime with David KeckTrigger Warning: Assault, Abuse, Rape, Mental Health, Trauma
Welcome to Episode 121 - I Survived A Hate Crime with David Keck
One of the few things in life that doesn’t discriminate is trauma. And this week’s episode explores trauma and recovery with David Keck.
David is the host of the Surviving Podcast, and he bravely shares how he survived a violent gay hate crime. He describes the events of the night that changed his life forever, including the abuse he received, the memory loss, the court ca...2024-04-1555 minThe Mindful Men Podcast120. Running for mental health with Lachy CameronTrigger warning: Mental Health, Suicide, Drugs and Alcohol
Welcome to Episode 120. Running for mental health with Lachy Cameron
Our mental health journey often starts long before we recognise it. This is why therapists ask you about your childhood. It helps set the scene for how you’re thinking, feeling and behaving as an adult. And this week’s guest shares how his childhood impacted his mental health right into adulthood.
Lachy Cameron is a man on a mission. He shares his story of feeling abandoned by his father, an...2024-04-0854 minThe Mindful Men Podcast119. Community and Mindful MenWelcome to Episode 119. Community and Mindful Men
This week we’re getting mindful about community – and in particular – the benefits that can come from creating your own community to grow and thrive in! We’re building something special here at Mindful Men, and I’m excited for you to join me.
This episode also marks 7 months of sobriety, and to celebrate this – and this wonderful community of Mindful Men – I will share some amazing feedback I have been receiving through this podcast, or podcasts where I have made a guest appearance.
If you’re loving the show, and would like to provide some feedb...2024-04-0139 minThe Mindful Men Podcast118. Somatic psychology and archetypes with Dr Brian TierneyTrigger warning: Mental Health
Welcome to Episode 118. Somatic psychology and archetypes with Dr Brian Tierney
Imagine trying to do some inner work. You close your eyes and all you can see is greyscale. There are no other colours, just grey. You can sense that pain and suffering is there, but you have no words to recognise or express it. According to Dr Brian Tierney – this is the impact of toxic masculinity. We’re not taught emotional intelligence; but we should be taught it so we can recognise our pain and express it in hea...2024-03-2550 minThe Mindful Men Podcast117. Compassion Focussed Therapy with Dr Stan SteindlTrigger warning: Mental Health
Welcome to Episode 117. Compassion Focussed Therapy with Dr Stan Steindl
When we think of compassion, most of us could probably say that we have compassion for others. We’re able to recognise the suffering in others, and take steps to help alleviate that suffering.
But when it comes to self-compassion, we can sometimes let ourselves down. We can be self-critical, and get stuck in a loop of negative thought cycles that never seem to end. And for men… the thought of being self-compassionate can seem un...2024-03-1845 minThe Mindful Men Podcast116. Bio-hacking and Epigenetics with Chris BarnesWelcome to Episode 116 - Bio-hacking and Epigenetics with Chris Barnes
Do you struggle with low energy, weight gain (or loss), brain fog, pain, stress, bad sleep or even mental health challenges? Maybe you’ve tried clean and healthy living, strict dieting, daily exercise, more sleep, less alcohol and drugs – but you don’t seem to be feeling better? And like me… do you feel older than you really are, but you want to feel younger?
If you answered YES to some of these, then the answer may lie in epigenetics and bio-hacking...2024-03-111h 07The Mindful Men Podcast115. Turning negative thoughts into positive onesWelcome to Episode 115 - Turning negative thoughts into positive ones
When we’re struggling with what life is throwing at us, it is easy to succumb to negative thought cycles. Once a negative thought enters our minds, it can be difficult to let it go like a leaf drifting along a stream. So this week I’m sharing a simple therapy tool that I use to help reframe those negative thoughts into positive ones. This is a simple tool that you can use to overcome mental barriers whilst finding inspiration to push forward.
So...2024-03-0423 minThe Mindful Men Podcast114. ADHD as a superpower with Dr James StewartTrigger warning: Mental Health, Addiction
Welcome to Episode 114 - ADHD as a superpower with Dr James Stewart
Sometimes a mental health or disability diagnoses can cause us to dwell in the “label”. We can embody the condition, and struggle to separate it from our identity. But what if you could harness the uniqueness of your condition – and start thriving instead of simply surviving?
This week’s guest turned his ADHD into his superpower. Dr. James Stewart is Australia’s most decorated Cannabis clinician and three-time Australian Doctor of the Year at...2024-02-2658 minThe Mindful Men Podcast113. Challenges That Change Us with Ali FlynnTrigger warning: Mental Health, Stroke
Welcome to Episode 113 - Challenges That Change Us with Ali Flynn
Life is full of challenges that we face. For the most part, we’re pretty good at overcoming these challenges, celebrating for a moment, then moving on with life. But what if that challenge fundamentally changes everything we do in life from that moment forward?
This is what happened to Ali Flynn. At 30 she was getting ready for her day when a stroke stopped her in her tracks. What started as a heada...2024-02-1953 minThe Mindful Men Podcast112. Stress and breathwork with Thomas BeresfordTrigger warning: Mental Health, Suicide
Welcome to Episode 112. Stress and breathwork with Thomas Beresford
Stress is inevitable in life. It comes and goes with different situations, and is actually a useful body response that enables us to evolve and thrive. But when we don’t release the stress through healthy outlets, it can grow and grow until we reach burnout. So how do we healthily release stress? Let’s find out with this week’s guest!
Thomas Beresford is recovering Chartered Accountant, husband, father and breath work instructor...2024-02-1256 minThe Mindful Men Podcast111. The Positive Impact From Sharing Our StoriesTrigger warning: Mental Health
Welcome to Episode 111. The Positive Impact From Sharing Our Stories
Sharing stories has become an integral part of my life. From first sharing my story with a GP and Psychologist in 2012, to sharing my story with the world after burning out in 2020. I share stories in a lot of podcasts, and also welcome stories into my therapy practice Mindful Men.
This episode highlights the importance of us sharing our story, but also the positive impact that sharing stories has. Stories are a source of ins...2024-02-0520 minThe Mindful Men Podcast110. Veteran and First Responder Wellbeing with Shane DimechTrigger warning: Mental Health, Suicide
Welcome to Episode 110 – Veteran and First Responder Wellbeing with Shane Dimech
Imagine you’re in a mental health facility, standing in line and waiting for your meds. You’re hoping to heal, but get stuck in a cycle of meds, sleep, meds, sleep. For some that works. But for others like Shane Dimech, it wasn’t a pathway he wanted to tread. So he made the decision to seek natural alternatives to mental health treatment, and turned towards meditation, mindfulness and yoga.
Shane bravely sh...2024-01-2942 minThe Mindful Men Podcast109. Adapting to disability with Nathan StapletonTrigger warning: Spinal Cord Injury
Welcome to Episode 109 – Adapting to disability with Nathan Stapleton
Nathan Stapleton grew up playing the game he loved, rugby league. He went on to play National Rugby League (NRL) for the Cronulla Sharks, before heading over to the UK to play for the London Broncos. Rugby opened up the world to Nathan and his family, but it also took everything away from him. In 2022 he sustained a spinal cord injury playing country footy, acquiring quadriplegia. He was pronounced dead for 16 minutes, and was lucky there was a regist...2024-01-2229 minThe Mindful Men Podcast108. Mentoring Men with Simon JarvisTrigger warning: Mental Health, Suicide
Welcome to Episode 108 – Mentoring Men with Simon Jarvis
Australia is in a mental health and crisis, and men are struggling big time. But unlike women and children, men have limited options available to them; The health system is female-orientated, and wait lists for mental health support are extending to 6-9 months in some cases. Unfortuantely this pushes many men over the edge, with high rates of reported family and domestic violence and suicide.
If we’re to change the stats, we need to change ou...2024-01-1538 minThe Mindful Men Podcast107. Stories of Hope with Kerrie AthertonTrigger warning: Addiction, Childhood Abuse, Trauma, Suicide
Welcome to Episode 107 – Stories of Hope with Kerrie Atherton
Losing hope can have us feeling like we’ve got nothing left to give the world. We can feel as though we’re broken, unwanted, unlovable and unworthy of being alive. Our lives can spiral out of control; impacting our mental health, relationships, careers and more.
But amidst the chaos, it’s important to know that we can regain our hope. Life has a way of presenting lightbulb moments that can guide is in ne...2024-01-0854 minThe Mindful Men Podcast106. Starting the new year with clearer focusWelcome to Episode 106 – Starting the new year with clearer focus
So you’ve woken up after new years and you’ve had a lightbulb moment. You want to get sober, or lose weight, or kick big goals in 2024. You start a list of new year’s resolutions… but deep down inside you know that you’ll probably give up by the end of January.
But what if I told you that you could make that resolution actually stick?
Join me this week as I talk you through how to start your ye...2024-01-0120 minThe Mindful Men Podcast105. Using values as a life compassWelcome to Episode 105 – Using values as a life compass
The Christmas and New Years period often brings up a bunch of “what am I doing with my life?” style questions. You’ve been through a year of hell, or a year of the same old, same old… and you’re yearning for change. But where do you start?
This week I give you an insight into a powerful mindfulness tool called – values. Values serve to connect us with our true and authentic selves. They can also be used to make difficult decisions, such as changing career, entering into a new relationship or even...2023-12-2524 minThe Mindful Men Podcast104. Mindful about Christmas and New YearsWelcome to Episode 104 – Mindful about Christmas and New Years
It’s the holiday season and a time of reflection. Whether it’s about how we’re going right now, or how we’ve gone over the past year, we can experience good, bad and ugly emotions during the Christmas and New Years period.
This week I sit down to give you some tips on navigating Christmas and New Years. From reflecting on the year, and recognising our growth – to identifying and connecting in with the supports we need to be well this holiday sea...2023-12-1818 minThe Mindful Men Podcast103. Freedom from life in a cult/sect/family with Rosie RasmussenTrigger warning: Divorce, religious cult or sect
Welcome to Episode 103 – Freedom from life in a cult/sect/family with Rosie Rasmussen
For millions around the world, religion provides a connection with the spiritual self. It brings communities together, and teaches ways to navigate life through shared principles and values.
And whilst millions find freedom through religion, others have that freedom taken away.
This week I sit down Rosie Rasmussen, a Mindfulness Mentor who in 2010 turned her back on the church with no name. As an outs...2023-12-1154 minThe Mindful Men Podcast102. Grey Area Drinking with Sarah RusbatchTrigger warning: alcoholism, addiction
Welcome to Episode 102 – Grey Area Drinking with Sarah Rusbatch
So many of us struggle with alcohol, but we refrain from admitting it through fear of being labelled an alcoholic. We don’t fit the image of a stereotypical “alcoholic” – the guy who has lost everything to his drinking, needs to drink to function, and is sitting on a park bench taking a swig from a bottle in a brown paper bag.
This was the case for me; I didn’t fit the stereotype. But when I did drink...2023-12-0445 minThe Mindful Men Podcast101. Red Nose Dads with Chris WoodTrigger warning: Infant death, Bereaved parents
Welcome to Episode 101 – Red Nose Dads with Chris Wood
As a family man, my wife and kids are my everything. I simply can’t imagine a world without them.
And this is why my chat with Chris Wood was particularly eye-opening. Chris is a loving husband and bereaved father to Liam who passed away a 1 day old due to complications in utero. Chris bravely shares his story of losing Liam, to help encourage more fathers to access support through agencies like Red Nose A...2023-11-2734 minThe Mindful Men Podcast100. What it means to be a mindful manWelcome to Episode 100 – What it means to be a mindful man
I first discovered mindfulness in my recovery from burnout in 2020. At first I thought it was a bit woo woo… a bit hippy… and certainly not manly!
But the more I dived into mindfulness, the more I discovered that it goes beyond meditation, gratitude and journaling.
In this special 100th episode, I reflect on the various definitions of what it means to be a mindful man. This episode is inspired by the men who are part of the Mindfu...2023-11-2023 minThe Mindful Men Podcast99. Average Joes with Wayne TaylorWelcome to Episode 99 – Average Joes with Wayne Taylor
A plumber and a real estate agent walked into a bar…
It has all the makings of the start of a great joke, but what happened is anything but. In 2018, mates Wayne and Eliot put the call out to men of the Sunshine Coast to join them for a beer, chicken wings and chat. And it didn’t take long before blokes started rocking up – and Average Joes was born.
Average Joes is a movement that inspires men to step above aver...2023-11-1348 minThe Mindful Men Podcast98. From prison to purpose with Sonny Von ClevelandTrigger warning: Child Sexual Abuse, Graphic Violence
Welcome to Episode 98 – From prison to purpose with Sonny Von Cleveland
The thought of going to prison would horrify most people. But for some who have been in the prison system, it can provide safety, belonging and the time and space to heal. At least this was the situation for Sonny Von Cleveland.
Sonny was sexually abused as a child, and his traumatic upbringing lead to a young life of crime. Repeat detentions in the juvenile system ultimately saw him enter th...2023-11-061h 02The Mindful Men Podcast97. Thriving after a liver transplant with John WeimanTrigger warning: Alcohol abuse
Welcome to Episode 97 – Thriving after a liver transplant with John Weiman
Have you ever wondered what happens when you have “too much of a good thing?”. Alcohol can make us feel we’re on a good thing, but the long term impacts can have devastating consequences. This includes impacts on our mental and physical health, our identity, finances, relationships, careers and so much more.
This week we’re exploring all of this through the lived experience of John Weiman. After years of alcohol abuse, John was...2023-10-3051 minThe Mindful Men Podcast96. Why I’m going alcohol free for the rest of 2023 (Solo)Trigger warning: Addiction
Welcome to Episode 95 – Why I’m going alcohol free for the rest of 2023
For the past couple of months I have been undertaking a change in my diet and lifestyle that has been a long time coming.
Alcohol has been a part of my life for a very long time and the ways it has influenced my life have changed over the years. But at the age of 40 I have decided to make a change and try cutting it out of my life.
There are several reasons for doing this and in this episode I want to dive...2023-10-2323 minThe Mindful Men Podcast95. Ending Men's Violence Against Women and Children with Allan BallTrigger warning: Domestic Violence
Welcome to Episode 95 – Ending Men's Violence Against Women and Children with Allan Ball
Domestic Violence is a major issue in Australia that can present in many different ways. This includes physical, emotional, spiritual,
online and financial forms of violence and abuse.
And the statistics show that 95% of all victims of violence, whether women or men, experience violence from a male perpetrator. So why is this case? And what can we do to turn things around?
In this episode I will be talking specifically about domestic violence perpetrated by men against women and how it results in a tra...2023-10-1532 minThe Mindful Men Podcast94. That Eco Warrior with Mandy SpoonerWelcome to Episode 94 – That Eco Warrior with Mandy Spooner
When it comes to being mindful and aware, caring for our environment is something a lot of us are still learning about.
There’s so many tricky ways to recycle, or be more eco conscious when using products in the pantry or the kitchen, but how do you even start? And how do you help your family start as well?
To help answer those questions in this episode I’m talking to Mandy Spooner, That Eco Warrior.
Mandy's eco-conscious journey began in 2017 when she discovered the environmental toll of single-use plastics, motivati...2023-10-0943 minThe Mindful Men Podcast93. Man Up with Gareth ShanthikumarWelcome to Episode 93 – Man Up with Gareth Shanthikumar
It's becoming widely understood that one way to encourage men to be more open about their mental health is to initiate and normalise conversations in childhood.
What we are still figuring out is how, exactly, to have those conversations with young men in a way that is comfortable and impactful.
The term ‘Man Up’ has traditionally been used to tell men to stop crying and hide their emotions. However, the 'Man Up' initiative, led by co-founder Gareth Shanthikumar, involves volunteers taking their program into schools to empower young men to embrace vulnerability and rede...2023-10-0248 minThe Mindful Men Podcast92. Finding Joy through the Inner Child (Solo Episode)Welcome to Episode 92 - Finding Joy through the Inner Child (Solo episode)
In a world that often seems to prioritise seriousness and adult responsibilities, we often forget the advantages and joy that came with our childhood.
After a recent men’s retreat, I had an eye-opening experience that helped to reawaken my connection with my inner child. So in today’s episode I’ll be exploring just what that involved, the benefits of doing so and how you can do it as well.
In this episode I cover:
- The seriousness of adulthood and the loneliness we can all encounter
- My own r...2023-09-2529 minThe Mindful Men Podcast90. Open Arms with Ken OtterTrigger warning: Depression, PTSD, suicide
Welcome to Episode 90 - Open Arms with Ken Otter
Making any kind of life change can have a big impact on our mental health, but there are probably very few shifts you can make as big as returning to civilian life after serving in the military.
The trauma that veterans experience can have long lasting effects, not just on them, but on the friends and family around them as well.
That’s why the organisation Open Arms was founded to provide mental healt...2023-09-1154 minThe Mindful Men Podcast89. AFL, bulimia and psychedelics with Brock McLean
Trigger warning: depression, bulimia and eating disorders
Welcome to Episode 89 - AFL and psychedelics with Brock McLean
The world of elite sports can be damaging for both the physical and mental health of the athletes who participate in it.
The pressure, risk of losing your spot and constant competitive nature can lead to some drastic effects.
That’s why I’m very excited to be talking to Brock McLean for this episode. As a former football player for both the Melbourne Football Club and Ca...2023-09-0454 minThe Mindful Men Podcast88. Quadriplegia and Medicine with Dinesh Palipana OAMTrigger warning: depression, agoraphobia, panic disorder and spinal cord injury
Welcome to Episode 88 - Quadriplegia and Medicine with Dinesh Palipana OAM
What kind of mindset and process does it take to live through a catastrophic car accident that leaves you with a cervical spinal cord injury?
That’s exactly what we’re finding out this week with our guest Dinesh Palipana OAM.
Having experienced depression and agoraphobia in his early 20’s, Dinesh is familiar with the how low our minds can take us.
Combine that with the...2023-08-2846 minThe Mindful Men Podcast77. Battling the booze with Simon BartzWelcome to Episode 77 - Battling the booze with Simon Bartz
June 12-18 is International Men’s Health Week and this year’s theme is healthy habits.
This week, I sit down with Simon Bartz from Elevate Counselling to talk about healthy habits that follow on from addiction to alcohol.
Simon shares his struggle with the booze, and how he used alcohol to hide from his internal struggles resulting from numerous rounds of IVF and job losses. But he also shares how he pulled through by deva...2023-06-121h 03
The Mindful Men Podcast47. Patriarchy, Feminism and Relationships with Bev Joy EhrlichWelcome to Episode 47 - Patriarchy, Feminism and Relationships with Bev Joy Ehrlich
When we think of patriarchy and feminism within the context of men's issues, we often think of a clash of titans. These concepts place men and women against each other, and the discussions can often become heated.
But a critical reflection on these concepts can help us to understand where we've come from, and where we want to go from an individual, community and social level.
This week, I am joined by Bev Joy Ehrlich, a Transformational Life and Relationships Coach wi...2022-11-1443 minThe Mindful Men Podcast46. Borderline Personality Disorder with Paul EdmundsonWelcome to Episode 46 - Borderline Personality Disorder with Paul Edmundson
Another week, another great chat with a bloke opening up about mental health!
This week, Paul Edmundson from MMH Warriors joins me to talk about his mental health journey that includes misdiagnosis, unhealthy coping strategies, suicide attempts, self-harm and then recovery once he was correctly diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). He also gives an insight into Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) which he has found useful for managing his BPD.
Paul's story talks to perseverance in the face of adversity, including how his r...2022-11-0745 minThe Mindful Men Podcast45. Swim to Safety with Selena WillowsWelcome to Episode 45 - Swim to Safety with Selena Willows
With the Australian summer fast approaching, backyard pools are getting cleaned up, public swimming pools are getting busier, and beaches and waterways are seeing an increasing influx of people keen to cool off as the days get hotter.
As summer edges closer, it's a timely reminder that learning to swim and being safe in the water is crucial.
Joining me to discuss swim safety is Selena Willows from Swim to Safety. Selena has a unique blend of in-person and online swimming lessons that f...2022-10-3150 minThe Mindful Men Podcast44. Addiction, Hope and Sobriety with Tim LodgenWelcome to Episode 44 - Addiction, Hope and Sobriety with Tim Lodgen
This week, I am joined by former US Marine, Junior Olympic Boxer, MMA fighter AND husband, father and grandfather, Tim Lodgen.
Tim shares his story of 27 years fighting a drug and alcohol addiction, suicide attempts, and mental illness. He paints a stark picture of how addiction influenced his life, before shining a bright light on his recovery and sobriety journey.
This is a truly inspirational story, that had me on the verge of tears throughout our discussion. Whilst there is a lot of...2022-10-241h 14The Mindful Men Podcast43. Money, Finance and Investing with Equity MatesWelcome to Episode 43 - Money, Finance and Investing with Equity Mates
Money is a huge stressor for many of us. We feel like we work hard to earn our pay, only to wave it goodbye the day after payday to all of our bills.
So this week, I thought it would be great to get mindful about money, and in particular - to discuss how we can put our money to work for us.
Joining me in this chat are Alec Renehan and Bryce Leske from Equity Mates. Equity Mates started as a p...2022-10-1751 min
The Mindful Men Podcast42. Let's Talk About Mental Health with Jeremy GodwinWelcome to Episode 42 - Let's Talk About Mental Health with Jeremy Godwin
The release of Episode 42 coincides with Queensland Mental Health Week (8-16 October), World Mental Health Day on 10 October and International OCD Awareness Week (10-15 October).
In this bonus episode, I'm joined by Jeremy Godwin - a writer, podcaster and YouTuber with his own private therapy practice.
Jeremy shares his story which includes growing up in poverty and within an abusive home; and his break down in 2011 which which resulted in him leaving his job in the corporate world. He tells how h...2022-10-1451 min
The Mindful Men Podcast41. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with Kimberley QuinlanWelcome to Episode 41 - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with Kimberley Quinlan
The release of Episode 41 coincides with Queensland Mental Health Week (8-16 October), World Mental Health Day on 10 October and International OCD Awareness Week (10-15 October).
In this bonus episode, I'm joined by Kimberley Quinlan from CBT School to talk about anxiety disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
Kimberley shares her story of living with an eating disorder, and helps us understand what Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Exposure, Response Prevention (ERP) are, and how they can help people living with anxiety disorders. ...2022-10-121h 04
The Mindful Men Podcast40. Stress and Burnout with April LikinsWelcome to Episode 40 - Stress and Burnout with April Likins
The release of Episode 40 coincides with Queensland Mental Health Week (8-16 October) and World Mental Health Day on 10 October.
And what better way to improve our mental health and wellbeing, than with an episode dedicated to mental health!
This week I chat with April Likins, who is a board-certified health coach that specialises in stress management. April really understands stress, because she's also experienced burnout and has a passion for helping other people through burnout.
Tune in to hear April's expertise, in...2022-10-101h 04
The Mindful Men Podcast39. Nutrition for Shift Workers with Roger SutherlandWelcome to Episode 39 - Nutrition for Shift Workers with Roger Sutherland
Keeping on top of our nutrition can be quite the challenge for us. Dieting, calorie counting and exercise can be too hard to handle.
But what about for shift workers? Not only are they battling the nutrition battle, but they're doing it at all sorts of hours of the day and night!
Enter Roger Sutherland from A Healthy Shift. Roger is a veteran shift worker and certified evidence-based nutritionist; and he understands how important health and wellbeing is for shift workers because...2022-10-031h 18The Mindful Men Podcast38. Mindfulness and Mental Health with John ShearerWelcome to Episode 38 - Mindfulness and Mental Health with John Shearer
This week I sit down with John Shearer, an Australian Mindfulness Master, Hypnotherapist, Trauma Coach and Sound Healer.
John shares his story of dying in a truck accident and being revived to spend the next 15 years stuck in the mental health system. He talks about a chance meeting with his friend who put John on a path to recovery - which ultimately led to John discovering mindfulness.
It's a great chat, where John and I talk about the benefits of mindfulness for o...2022-09-2648 minThe Mindful Men Podcast37. Book Review: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a FuckWelcome to Episode 37 - Book Review: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck
One of my favourite parts of each guest episode is hearing my guests plug something that makes them feel good. From books, to tv shows, to mindfulness activities - there's been a bunch of great plugs for us all to enjoy.
So this week, I thought I would focus on my own plug and do a book review.
I recently finished The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by Mark Manson... and WOW, it was so good!
...2022-09-1915 minThe Mindful Men Podcast36. Correctional and Forensic Psychology with Dr Lina HajiWelcome to Episode 36 - Correctional and Forensic Psychology with Dr Lina Haji
Bad boys, bad boys, whatcha gonna do? whatcha gonna do when Dr Lina Haji comes for you?
Open up... its pretty simple!
This week Dr Lina Haji joins me to talk all things correctional and forensic psychology.
It's a great insight into mental health within the prison and forensic systems that also includes the importance or self-care for helping professionals. Lina also shares her passion for supervision, and the work she does at her private practice Rise Psychological Services.2022-09-121h 08The Mindful Men Podcast35. Business Coaching for Social Workers with Anna CrommelinWelcome to Episode 35 - Business Coaching for Social Workers with Anna Crommelin
Throughout my Masters of Social Work, I kept hearing that social workers weren't in social work for the income, but the outcome. That social workers were poor, and there was no money in social work.
It seemed like the profession had resigned itself to this mindset... but rather than except that, I kept telling myself "bugger that!"
Thankfully, the more I looked into private practice, the more I could see social workers across the globe trying to break out of this m...2022-09-051h 07
The Mindful Men Podcast34. Therapy with Mindful MenWelcome to Episode 34 – Therapy with Mindful Men
This week I thought I would take you through what therapy supports I provide at Mindful Men.
From private counselling, to NDIS capacity building, and Workcover claims in QLD, Mindful Men is a safe space for men to get things off their chests!
I take you through what I do and why, all from the comfort of my virtual therapy room.
And if you’re into visuals, watch the episode on YouTube as I screenshot the website throughout the show.
For more info...2022-08-2912 minThe Mindful Men Podcast33. Anger: Taming the Beast with Reneau PeurifoyWelcome to Episode 33 - Anger: Taming the Beast with Reneau Peurifoy
Anger shows up in our lives in many ways, and can be difficult to manage.
From bubbling away to outbursts, how we deal with anger shapes the way we see and interact with the world. It can hurt the relationships we have with others and ourselves.
But anger isn't necessarily a bad thing. In fact, there are times when anger is appropriate and necessary.
In this week's episode, I explore anger with Reneau Peurifoy, the author of Anger: Taming the Be...2022-08-221h 04The Mindful Men Podcast32. Coach to the Tradies with Aaron WD HueyWelcome to Episode 32 - Coach to the Tradies with Aaron WD Huey
This week's episode is one for the tradies! That's right, all of you who live on the tools - it might be worth having a lunch break together, popping on this episode and getting mindful about your mental health.
Aaron WD Huey is a carpenter, dad, partner and coach who focusses on helping tradies to open up and tune into life away from the tools. And his work is particularly important given suicide rates amongst tradies are 3x higher than other men.
2022-08-151h 04The Mindful Men Podcast31. The Healing Power of Dogs With Michael OverlieWelcome to Episode 31 - The Healing Power of Dogs With Michael Overlie
We've all heard of the phrase "man's best friend" when it comes to our dogs. But can they be more than just our best friends?
This week I'm joined by Michael Overlie, a canine-partnered men's coach who helps people connect with the healing power of dogs.
Michael takes us for a walk through his life, including growing up in fear, and how the death of his brother helped him to realise that he wasn't showing up like the man he knew h...2022-08-0845 minThe Mindful Men Podcast30. Why I Quit My Job To Start A BusinessWelcome to Episode 30 - Why I Quit My Job To Start A Business
I thought I would use this episode to give a bit of an update on the biggest decision I've made for years. After 15 years in the Public Service, my wife and I made the tough decision for me to resign.
Why? For starters I was hurting... big time! I was struggling mentally to drag myself through each day. I was miserable, and my mind and body was screaming for change.
But I also did it to pursue my dream of ru...2022-08-0117 minThe Mindful Men Podcast29. Sitting With Anxiety through the Anxiety ArcWelcome to Episode 29 - Sitting With Anxiety through the Anxiety Arc
In this week's solo episode, I am talking you through a new tool that my psychologist introduced me to - the Anxiety Arc.
This tool has been useful for me to stop avoiding tasks I need to do in order to get my business up and running. For example, finishing my website.
The Anxiety Arc helps us to visualise when we're avoiding things that cause us anxiety, and learn to sit with anxiety. This is useful, because when we learn to sit w...2022-07-2512 minThe Mindful Men Podcast28. Big Empathy Energy with Elyce MandichWelcome to Episode 28 - Big Empathy Energy with Elyce Mandich
If you've been watching the news lately, you'll notice there's big social issues coming out of the US at the moment.
Gun control after yet another school shooting is one that continually comes up. And on the 24th June 2022, the US Supreme Court decided to overturn Roe v. Wade - the landmark 1973 decision that gave American women the right to abortion.
So when you get two social workers together to chat mental health, these big social issues get some airtime!
This we...2022-07-1851 minThe Mindful Men Podcast27. The Fit Dad Lifestyle with Leroy FaureWelcome to Episode 27 - The Fit Dad Lifestyle with Leroy Faure
For those following my journey, you would know I experienced burnout pretty hard in 2020. I ended up taking 3-4 months off of work to recover, and in that time I discovered the Fit Dad Lifestyle.
Leroy Faure has created a global community for dads all striving to be 1% better than yesterday. From workouts with the family, to supplements, and simple tips with managing fatherhood, the Fit Dad Lifestyle community is a great place for dads to connect, engage and support each other.
...2022-07-1155 min
The Mindful Men Podcast26. Psychosocial Recovery Coaching with Jake O’HalloranWelcome to Episode 26 - Psychosocial Recovery Coaching with Jake O’Halloran
When we think of professional support for our mental health, we think GP, Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Counsellor and even Mental Health Social Worker.
But over the last few years, a new type of support that has appeared for people experiencing mental health challenges, the Psychosocial Recovery Coach.
In this week's episode, I chat with Jake O'Halloran from One Good Day, a company specialising in Psychosocial Recovery Coaching.
Jake provides a great account for what Recovery Coaching is, and how people can acces...2022-07-0446 minThe Mindful Men Podcast25. Overcoming Adversity In and Out of the Gym with Bart WalshWelcome to Episode 25 - Overcoming Adversity In and Out of the Gym with Bart Walsh
Adversity is something we all come across in our lives.
Some of us can overcome it easily, whilst others need a bit of help (and thats ok!).
This week I chat with Bart Walsh, the Head Coach of Jetts Fitness Australia. Jetts is an international fitness brand helping people to improve their health and wellbeing.
Not only does Bart help thousands of Jetts members overcome adversity to improve their health and wellbeing, but he has had to...2022-06-271h 05The Mindful Men Podcast24. Coaching, Values and Community with Lachie StuartWelcome to Episode 24 - Coaching, Values and Community with Lachie Stuart
For many men, day to day life can often feel like its being lived on auto-pilot.
We just go through the motions, and don't feel like we're really living.
We can feel lost and lonely, and our relationships with ourselves and others can suffer.
Enter Lachie Stuart from the Man That Can Project. Lachie helps men to reconnect with themselves and their community through high performance coaching.
He brings to life values-based living, and connects blokes from all walk...2022-06-191h 00The Mindful Men Podcast23. Doulas, Parenting and Social Work with Sarah WhiteWelcome to Episode 23 - Doulas, Parenting and Social Work with Sarah White
Navigating pregnancy, child birth and then parenting can be a scary and overwhelming thing.
One minute, you're free as a bird, living the child-free life. The next minute, you've got a bundle of joy that you need to care for 24/7.
For some, childbirth and parenting comes easy. But for others, it flips life upside down.
When I became a dad, my idea of support was the hospital staff, the GP, mum's groups and family. I had no idea that y...2022-06-121h 05The Mindful Men Podcast22. Surviving Child Abuse with Jimmy VaughanWelcome to Episode 22 - Surviving Child Abuse with Jimmy Vaughan
Childhood is a time where our focus should be on exploring the world and ourselves within it.
It's a period of growth, learning, loving, happiness, curiosity and wonder.
Yet for some, childhood can turn from this wondrous joyful period, to one of significant trauma and pain.
In this week's episode, I chat with Jimmy Vaughan from Jims Stop the Stigma.
Jimmy is a TedX speaker, mental health peer mentor, mental health advocate and father to a future rugby star.
...2022-06-0542 minThe Mindful Men Podcast21. Life as a 5 Year Old with GusWelcome to Episode 21 - Life as a 5 Year Old with Gus
This week I'm joined by my 5 year old son Gus. He's been super keen to come on the podcast, and share some of his favourite things.
I loved the fact he wanted to take part in the show, and it reminded me of my episode with Anthony Simons where we were talking about seeing the world through our kids eyes.
In this episode, we talk about Gus' love for animals, and also his thoughts on things like being happy and sad, and w...2022-05-2914 minThe Mindful Men Podcast20. Footy, Masculinity and Mental HealthWelcome to Episode 20 - Footy, Masculinity and Mental Health
This week I reflect on the David Noble spray to his North Melbourne players after their loss to the Brisbane Lions in Round 3.
Players got emotional, and former coaches of the Australian Football League (AFL) questioned whether sprays were necessary in 2022.
The media commentary around the incident had me reflecting on my footy days, and how footy clubs contribute to the perception that masculinity is about boys and men not showing emotions.
I also reflect on current and former players who have e...2022-05-2219 minThe Mindful Men Podcast19. 5 Tips for Practicing GratitudeWelcome to Episode 19 - 5 Tips for Practicing Gratitude
I'm putting my hand up in this episode and saying that for most of my life, I have usually seen the glass as being half empty (rather than half full).
But over the past few years, I have been trying different ways to switch this narrative, and see more positive in my life.
One thing I've been trying is practicing gratitude.
It's something I've struggled with, but recently I had a breakthrough that is really working for me.
So tune in for...2022-05-1520 minThe Mindful Men Podcast18. Positive Mindset with Jamie UsherWelcome to Episode 18 - Positive Mindset with Jamie Usher
A positive mindset is a powerful tool that can help us overcome adversity.
It can protect us when we're hurting, and push us when we're picking up the pieces and moving on with life.
In this week's episode, I chat with Jamie Usher from the Mind Tradie.
Jamie's story has multiple challenges that he's had to overcome. From childhood trauma to losing 90% of his vision.
As a result, he lost his job, his driver's license and his view of the wor...2022-05-081h 12The Mindful Men Podcast17. Exercise Based Therapy with Anthony SimonsWelcome to Episode 17 - Exercise Based Therapy with Anthony Simons
When we think of counselling or therapy, we think of sitting on a couch across from a therapist.
We're nervous, there's a box of tissues are next to us, and we don't know whether to look the therapist in the eye or out the window.
But therapy doesn't have to be like that!
In this episode, I chat with Anthony Simons from Fit 'N Well in Adelaide, South Australia.
Anthony has taken his love for sport and fitness, and bl...2022-05-0157 minThe Mindful Men Podcast16. 5 Tips For Talking About Mental HealthWelcome to Episode 16 - 5 Tips For Talking About Mental Health
Today's episode seeks to answer a question from one of the Mindful Men community members:
“how soon is too soon to be cracking jokes with a person who has experienced a mental health episode?”
It's a great question, and the answer might seem obvious. But it's not so straight forward, because our response to questions about our mental health, including our response to humour, is as unique to us as our experience of mental illness itself.
But using my own experience as a...2022-04-2418 minThe Mindful Men Podcast15. Addiction and Recovery with Conrad TraceyWelcome to Episode 15 - Addiction and Recovery with Conrad Tracey
*Trigger Warning - this week's includes a story about sexual abuse and drugs misuse. Skip if you may be triggered!*
This week I talk to Conrad Tracey from Addiction Coaching Australia.
Conrad shares his own personal story of how his life ended up hitting rock bottom after battling substance misuse, and his recovery journey to where he is today... helping people overcome their own challenges with substance misuse to regain control of their life.
It's a story of he...2022-04-171h 06The Mindful Men Podcast14. Exploring Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with Taylor NewendorpWelcome to Episode 14 - Exploring Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with Taylor Newendorp
In this episode I sit down with Taylor Newendorp from NOCD.
We talk everything from fatherhood and raising anxious kids, to OCD and Taylor's therapy work with NOCD.
It's a great episode as it breaks down what OCD actually is, and highlights how debilitating this condition can be for millions of people across the world.
We also put the spotlight on Harm OCD and Pure OCD, before moving into Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) - the Gold Standard for OCD...2022-04-1055 minThe Mindful Men Podcast13. Mental Health RecoveryWelcome to Episode 13 - Mental Health Recovery
In recent months, I've been struggling mentally. I've been angry, upset, sad, depressed... you name it, I've felt it!
So in this episode, I wanted to highlight this fact, and reflect upon the rollercoaster ride that is mental health.
I frame this using the terms mental health recovery or mental health pathway, as these are often used to describe someone's journey from ill-health to wellness.
And this journey isn't linear. It isn't straight forward, nor is it easy.
It's unique to us all...2022-04-0316 minThe Mindful Men Podcast12. What is Health Anxiety?Welcome to Episode 12 – What is Health Anxiety?
In Episode 9, David Day mentioned that he got Health Anxiety through the COVID pandemic.
And since then, I’ve been thinking about Health Anxiety, and what it actually is.
So in this episode, I'm shedding some light on Health Anxiety, otherwise know as Hypochondria.
I'll take you through a few examples, before leaving you with some tips on how to manage it.
If you love what you hear, please like the show. Share it with your mates, and click subscribe. Leave a...2022-03-2715 minThe Mindful Men Podcast11. 5 More Positive Affirmations to Inspire YouWelcome to Episode 11 – 5 More Positive Affirmations to Inspire You
Last week I bought you 5 positive affirmations to inspire you, and today I bring you 5 more (plus a bonus one!).
Why? Because the more tools we have in our belt, the easier it is for us to navigate the hard parts of life.
I really enjoyed reflecting on the affirmations in episode 10 and 11, because it gave me that little spring in the step as I recall some of the times I overcome adversity.
I hope you're enjoying the show!
2022-03-2016 minThe Mindful Men Podcast10. 5 Positive Affirmations to Inspire YouWelcome to Episode 10 – 5 Positive Affirmations to Inspire You
Today I walk you through 5 positive affirmations that have inspired me to push on, overcome adversity and look forward to the future.
Now before you click "next" because affirmations aren't your thing... hear me out.
I used to feel the same. I used to see the quotes and think "how corny!".
But when I was recovering from burnout, I found a few affirmations that actually helped me.
They helped by reframing my mindset and inspiring me through the recovery process.
...2022-03-1314 minThe Mindful Men Podcast9. Parenting and Mental Health During COVID with David DayWelcome to Episode 9 - Parenting and Mental Health During COVID with David Day
Today I'm joined by an old mate of mine, David Day.
Dave is a proud husband, father and fan of NRL club Wests Tigers. Originally from central NSW, Dave turned his back on the shearing sheds to enliven his mind with english literature at University, before venturing into a career in the public service.
In this episode, we talk about his experience with parenting and mental health during COVID.
Dave opens up about balancing being a dad, working fr...2022-03-0643 minThe Mindful Men Podcast8. Finding New Purpose as a Mature Age StudentWelcome to Episode 8 – Finding New Purpose as a Mature Age Student
With the new university year about to start, I've been reflecting over my Masters of Social Work journey.
I finished my degree at the end of 2021, and I am so glad that I'm free of tutorials, lectures readings and essays!
But at the same time, I'm also thankful.
I'm thankful for having done my Masters degree. Because it has opened my eyes, mind and heart to what is possible.
It's encouraged me to pursue my dreams and not sett...2022-02-2725 minThe Mindful Men Podcast7. Filling Your Cup with Happy HormonesWelcome to Episode 7 – Filling Your Cup with Happy Hormones
Today's episode centres on self-care and how you can fill your cup with Happy Hormones!
When we think about self-care, we often think about hippies on a yoga retreat, or the girls going for a facial and massage. And this puts us blokes off. We think self-care isn't for us. It's almost like it's a dirty word that blokes dare not mention!
But self-care IS manly. It's also in our everyday life... we just need to tune into it!
In this episode, I...2022-02-2013 minThe Mindful Men Podcast6. What it's Like to Live through BurnoutWelcome to Episode 6 – What it's Like to Live through Burnout
As the COVID-19 pandemic drags on and on, Burnout is a condition that is finding its way into the news on a regular basis.
Put simply, Burnout is the result of long-term stress that doesn't get dealt with.
And it can happen to anyone. Workers, students, parents, carers, athletes, entertainers, business owners, and even podcast and content creators... Burnout doesn't discriminate.
In this episode, I share my story of Burnout. From not knowing what it was, to realising I had been jugg...2022-02-1320 minThe Mindful Men Podcast5. What it’s Like to Live With Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)Welcome to Episode 5 – What it’s Like to Live With Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Today's episode talks about an often misunderstood, and highly trivialised disorder - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
OCD has been in my life for longer than anxiety and depression, but it wasn't until around 20 years from my first symptom, that I sort help for it.
It's an insight into a silent condition, one that takes about 17 years (on average) for people to seek help for.
And in sharing my story, I hope to inspire other boys, men, and OCD sufferers to tell theirs.
If you love what you hear...2022-02-0625 minThe Mindful Men Podcast4. What it’s Like to Live With AnxietyWelcome to Episode 4 – What it’s Like to Live With Anxiety
Today I look at anxiety, a mental health condition impacting 1 in 5 men in Australia.
For me, anxiety started when I was in my primary school years, and it's stuck around ever since.
In this episode, I'll give you some insight into what anxiety looks and feels like, including some of the coping strategies I have used to try and deal with it.
And be sure to stick around until the end, as I'll give you a great tool to use when y...2022-01-3027 minThe Mindful Men Podcast3. What it’s Like to Live With DepressionWelcome to Episode 3 – What it’s Like to Live With Depression
Today I discuss the dark cloud, or black dog, that many of us walk around with... Depression.
I talk about the signs to look out for and how Depression has showed up in my life. From when it showed up in high school, to how it manifested in the lead up to my diagnosis in 2012.
I also share some of the things I have done to treat my Depression, in the hope that it might encourage you (or someone you know) to try t...2022-01-2322 minThe Mindful Men Podcast2. Why You Don’t Need to be Famous to Talk About Mental HealthWelcome to Episode 2 - Why You Don’t Need to be Famous to Talk About Mental Health
Today's episode is one for the average blokes.
It's one that centres on my purpose... to tell my story in the hope that it inspires other boys and men to tell theirs.
And why is this important? Because I believe that men need to speak up, because let's face it... we're not that good at it!
By speaking up, we can address mental health issues before they become "issues". We can actively work through our...2022-01-1822 min
The Mindful Men Podcast1. Lets Get Men Talking!Welcome to Episode 1 - Lets Get Men Talking!
Today's episode is a brief introduction to what the Mindful Men Podcast is all about... opening up conversations about men's wellbeing.
I touch on issues that stop men from talking about their mental health, and the potential outcomes from not talking (think relationship breakdowns, to substance abuse, to violence and suicide).
I also touch on a bit of my story, and how my experience of burnout sparked the creation of Mindful Men.
If you love what you hear, please like the show. Share it...2022-01-1614 min