The Mindful Men Podcast

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 Carlton in the AFL, he will be giving us a behind the scenes picture of the journey to, during and after a career in elite sports.   In this episode Brock shares: -      His experience with early fatherhood -      What he did to help out his wife in the early stages of parenthood -      His early life in a blue collar family and what his journey into football looked like -      How a coach’s request made him obsessed with food and started weighing everything and purging food at night. -      The way he handled/recognised his bulimia -      What the mental health support system is like in football clubs -      The reason it is so important players take a break for their mental health to normalise the process for others -      His belief that psychiatric facilities and the people who go through them are horribly misunderstood and stigmatised -      How being delisted influenced his mental health and how he handled it. -      The difference between self-esteem and self-worth -      His experience with researching using psychedelics to help improve mental health.   Key quotes:   “Anyone who’s been in that situation (unhappiness) knows that no matter how many times you change your environment, that unhappiness follows you.”   “It’s not the emotions, it’s not the feelings that’s the issue… it’s what we do to try and avoid those emotions or suppress those emotions.”   “Some of the most amazing people and unfortunately troubled people I’ve ever met in my life have been in psychiatric clinics.”   More about Brock   You can follow Brock on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brock-mclean-04aa791b9/ For more from Mindful Men Check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au   You can also follow us on social media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: @mindful.men.aus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-rinne-246207247/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mindful.men.aus Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXBNQmbj4ZQj3rzFAZALTA ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon

Trigger 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 experience of becoming a quadriplegic right when he was training to be a doctor and you can imagine the adversity he has had to overcome. Since then he has risen above it to become a doctor, lawyer, author, Gold Coast Titans STAR Ambassador and 2021 Queensland Australian of the Year. In this episode Dinesh shares:   -      His definition of disability and what it means to him -      What happened when he experienced a dark period of depression and agoraphobia -      What drew him to a career in medicine, even before his accident -      The moment a catastrophic car accident left him with a cervical spinal cord injury. -      The hit and miss experiences he had with doctors hearing and supporting him -      What made him keep studying to be a doctor after his injury -      Why he would sometimes have his wheelchair taken away and not be told when it was returning -      How life changing accessible housing has been for him -      The mixed opinions he received on trying to be a doctor with a disability -      The response he has had from patients to his disability -      How he handled working as a doctor during covid -      How he became the doctor of gold coast titans physical disability rugby league team -      What he would tell his younger self about life after the car accident Key quotes:   “It (depression) was actually more paralysing than the spinal cord injury was.”   “I didn’t know I was depressed, I didn’t know what it was, I didn’t know what I was going through. I had no idea.”   “I don’t think we do the right thing by medical professionals…these people give their heart and soul for our community and I don’t think we look after them as well as we should.”   More about Dinesh   Dinesh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dineshpalipana  Dinesh Instagram: http://instagram.com/dinesh.palipana   If you’d like to read Dinesh’s book you can find it here: https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/9781760984786/   For more from Mindful Men Check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au   You can also follow us on social media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: @mindful.men.aus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-rinne-246207247/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mindful.men.aus Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXBNQmbj4ZQj3rzFAZALTA ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon

Welcome to Episode 87- Men Feel Lonely Too (Solo episode) In this episode of The Mindful Men Podcast, I dive deep into the often-overlooked subject of men's loneliness, aiming to spark an open conversation about this pressing issue. Drawing parallels between the struggle to discuss loneliness and the broader challenge of addressing men's mental health, I shed light on the barriers preventing candid conversations. Shifting the perspective on loneliness, I emphasize the significance of connection quality over quantity, stressing the transformative power of even a single meaningful relationship. Exploring the implications of social isolation in today's world and the factors exacerbating men's loneliness, I uncover its potential health repercussions. I offer actionable strategies, urging listeners to confront and embrace loneliness, redefine their social circles, and engage in group activities. Additionally, I introduce the Mindful Men Facebook community, a platform for mutual support and connection. Ultimately, I empower men to take charge of their emotional well-being, encouraging them to combat loneliness and forge a path toward a more connected and fulfilling life. If you're keen to check out the links mentioned in this episode, here they are: References: Healthy Male: https://www.healthymale.org.au/mens-health/loneliness-and-social-isolation ABC: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-14/middle-aged-men-experiencing-high-level-loneliness/102563492   Mindful Men Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 For more from Mindful Men, check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon

Welcome to Episode 86- Men of Gold with Dayne Weston This week, I’m joined by former rugby league player Dayne Weston who shares his footy and personal life challenges. Dayne bravely opens up about the impact of childhood trauma, performance-based love, and his struggles during a difficult divorce. Through his own experiences, he emphasizes the need for open dialogue and understanding surrounding mental health issues, both in sports and society. Throughout the interview, Dayne reflects on the evolving approach to mental health within rugby league clubs. He highlights the positive influence of well-being teams and empathetic coaches, stressing the importance of creating a supportive environment for players to discuss their mental well-being. Dayne passionately advocates for year-round mental health awareness and dispels the stigma associated with seeking help; including what he is doing to support men through Men of Gold. Join us for an inspiring and honest conversation as Dayne sheds light on the significance of vulnerability, mental health support, and fostering a culture of compassion in sports. This episode challenges the status quo and encourages listeners to prioritize mental health conversations and create a more inclusive and supportive community. If you're keen to check out the links mentioned in this episode, here they are: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/menofgoldau/  Email:  contact@menofgold.com.au  Podcast Recommendation: The run home with Joel and Fletch https://open.spotify.com/show/1cbGNwPIRlZ17sqTZofaxk?si=ab5b314805834cb2  For more from Mindful Men, check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon

Welcome to Episode 85 - The Dad’s Community with Stephen Hirst  In the world of parenting, dads can often feel left behind. With all the focus on mums and bubs in the early days, life ends up getting busy and suddenly dads are left wondering why things have got so tough.   Enter Stephen Hurst, the founder of DADS Community. DADS Community provides men with a safe and supportive community just for dads. What started as a Facebook group has turned into a thriving community with weekly catch ups, men circles, coaching and get togethers.   In this episode, Stephen shares his personal story and links this with why community is so important for the dads in our lives. Join us as we reflect on what it means to be a dad, and the great things DADS Community is doing. If you're keen to check out the links mentioned in this episode, here they are: Website:  https://dadscommunity.com.au/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/stephen_charliehirst/  Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/1031419297447688  For more from Mindful Men, check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon

Welcome to Episode 84 - Overcoming trauma with mindfulness with Mark Sidney Are you curious about how mindfulness can help heal trauma? Then join me as I chat with Mark Sidney, the director of Mindful Therapies and the Director of Operations at Mindful Impact Mark brings a wealth of lived and learned experience to the mindfulness-space, and is passionate about sharing how mindfulness can heal trauma and foster personal growth. Mark also shows how he uses mindfulness in the business world to make workplaces more balanced and harmonious. He encourages businesses and employees to adopt mindfulness, unlocking its potential for improved focus, creativity, and reduced stress. Tune in to unlock the power of mindfulness with Mark Sidney, and embark on a journey towards self-discovery, acceptance, and empowerment. If you're keen to check out the links mentioned in this episode, here they are: Website: www.mindfultherapies.org.uk   Website: https://mindfulimpact.co.uk  Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/mark.sidney.50  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@mindfultherapies3588  Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marksidney  Dr Russ Harris https://www.actmindfully.com.au/  Mindfulness with Attitude: A practical guide to living a mindful life: https://amzn.to/3NZ9zx2  Full Catastrophe Living (Revised Edition): Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain, and Illness: https://amzn.to/3OsH4cN  Mindfulness: An Eight-Week Plan for Finding Peace in a Frantic World: https://amzn.to/44ZTC0B  For more from Mindful Men, check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon

Welcome to Episode 83 - How compliments improve connection (Solo Episode) In a world where negativity often dominates our thoughts and conversations, it's essential that we shine some light into our lives by the way we engage each other.   Join me on this solo episode where I reflect on the power of compliments, and how important it is to not deflect when someone offers us one.   We’ll go through an exercise that you can do today to lift someone up… and maybe save their life! If you're keen to check out the links mentioned in this episode, here they are:    Vinh Giang: https://www.tiktok.com/@askvinh/video/7243292839323503874?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7170243451505985026 Gus Worland: https://www.ted.com/talks/gus_worland_is_someone_you_love_suffering_in_silence_here_s_what_to_do?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare For more from Mindful Men, check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon

Welcome to Episode 82 - Gluten Free and Coeliac disease with Ben Hampton. Are you or someone you know living with Coeliac Disease? Or maybe you know someone who is going gluten-free in their diet? This week we’re diving into Coeliac Disease, a chronic autoimmune disorder caused by ingesting gluten. Ben Hampton shares his personal journey of living with Coeliac Disease, including the struggles he faced from diagnosis, to his mental health and the everyday management of the condition.   Ben also discusses how his story prompted him to promote greater awareness of Coeliac Disease by hosting A Gluten Free Podcast. It’s a great listen, with personal and expert insights about this crippling disease.   If you or a loved one are affected by Coeliac Disease, this episode is a must-listen. If you're keen to check out the links mentioned in this episode, here they are: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/a.gffamily/?hl=en   TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@aglutenfreefamily  Resources: https://www.twobays.beer https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/a-gluten-free-podcast/id1596543624  https://www.coeliac.org.au/s/  https://hubermanlab.com/welcome-to-the-huberman-lab-podcast/  For more from Mindful Men, check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon

Welcome to Episode 81 - Overcoming Gambling Addiction with Kate Seselja. Did you know Australia is the Poker machine capital of the world!? Gambling addiction is a hidden struggle that affects countless individuals worldwide. The allure of winning, the excitement of risk-taking, and the illusion of control can quickly spiral into an all-consuming compulsion. Join me as I chat with Kate Seselja about her journey from gambling addict to recovery coach. We shed light on the often invisible nature of this addiction, and the importance of seeking support, and the profound impact of gambling addiction on individuals and their families. If you're keen to check out the links mentioned in this episode, here they are: Website:  https://thehopeprojectnow.com Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/the.hope.project/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thehopeprojectnow/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjn76ei5Swin_QIweFS_GCQ  Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-seselja/ For more from Mindful Men, check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon

Welcome to Episode 80 - Homelessness and Mental Health with Cameron Thayer  With house and rent prices on the increase, more and more Australians are finding themselves experiencing homelessness. For some, this is nothing new. But given the current financial and housing climates, many are experiencing homelessness for the first time and are unsure where to turn for help. This week I dive into homelessness with Cameron Thayer. Cameron shares his story of experiencing homelessness at a young age to becoming the CEO of mental health and disability-focussed non-profit community organization Karakan. Cameron shares his story in order to instill hope in others that support is out there, and change is possible. Join us as we explore the challenges presented by homelessness, and the crucial role of non-profit organizations supporting vulnerable people in our communities. If you're keen to check out the links mentioned in this episode, here they are: Website:  https://www.karakan.com.au/ Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/karakan-ltd  Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/KarakanLtd Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-thayer-b5129b189/  For more from Mindful Men, check out the website at www.mindful-men.com.au ***If anything triggers you from today's episode, please reach out to your support networks or seek professional help*** Cheers, Simon