Joe Williams - Concussion, Bipolar & Being a Dad

Jul 27, 2025

Joe Williams, a former National Rugby League player turned mental health advocate, shares his transformative journey following a tumultuous sports career rife with concussions and substance abuse. He discusses the stark realities of his bipolar diagnosis and how it has shaped his approach to fatherhood, emphasizing the difference between being a dad and merely a father. Joe also dives into his work with Indigenous youth through initiatives like The Enemy Within, illustrating the vital connection between mental health advocacy and personal growth.

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ANECDOTE

Facing Racism with Intelligence

Joe was racially vilified and called names as one of the few Aboriginal kids at school.
His dad taught him to counter racism with intelligence and facts, not violence.

ANECDOTE

Concussion Led to Darkness

Joe suffered a massive concussion playing in an older age group, which triggered suicidal thoughts.
He used alcohol heavily to silence the negative internal voices during this dark time.

INSIGHT

Sobriety Revealed Inner Noise

Sobriety uncovered underlying mental noise that forced Joe to confront his inner struggles.
Healing is a journey requiring ongoing self-work beyond ceasing substance use.

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Approached by 5 NRL clubs by the time he was 13, Joe was a sporting prodigy.

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Thrust into the spotlight Joe was introduced to a world of concussions, accolades and copious amounts of drugs and alcohol.

Now 18 years sober, Joe is honest about how he found his power through truth and the experiences and learnings through which he navigates racism and understands human behaviour.

Joe chats to Josh about the difference between being a dad and a father, and how he has found compassion for his younger self.

This conversation also touches on Joe’s bipolar diagnosis, his relationship with the natural environment and the incredible difference that he is making in the mental health space now.

Joe, we can’t believe you found the time to join us. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.

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📖 Things to read:

Defying The Enemy Within by Joe Williams - https://bit.ly/4eY3cr0
What Happened To You by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey - https://bit.ly/4lYzl4F
The Dreaming Path by Paul Callaghan with Uncle Paul Gordon - https://bit.ly/3ICXbEd

📺Things to watch:

Seen The Film - https://seenthefilm.com

💻Things to check out:

Our Way Academy - https://bit.ly/4lGt4uf

🚨If you, or someone you know, is struggling with suicidal ideation, thinking about suicide, or has issues with addiction, please call 000 in an emergency. Lifeline on 13 11 14 is also great resource, as well as the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.

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The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.