

The Mind Mate Podcast
Tom Ahern
The Mind Mate Podcast explores the human condition at the intersection of philosophy and psychotherapy. Hosted by counsellor and psychotherapist and writer Tom Ahern, the podcast engages deeply with questions of meaning, anxiety, freedom, identity, death, love, and what it means to live authentically in the modern world.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 12, 2018 • 13min
#11 - What is Anxiety?
In this episode, Tom defines the true meaning of anxiety and how it has evolved in humanity over the years. As it was with him, many anxiety sufferers are confused about the reasons why anxiety becomes apparent in their lives so hopefully this episode sheds some light as to why fear is a universally common trait. Tommy's anxiety DISORDER came about from a negative experience on mushrooms six years ago but the truth is, he had some underlying issues that needed addressing.
One of the most difficult things to do is logically make sense of intrusive thoughts. By understanding where anxiety stems from as well as looking at ways of categorising fear based on its rationality, we can prevent our thoughts and fears from spiraling when they are present.

Jun 12, 2018 • 37min
#10 - Uncomfortable is OK with Chris Desmond
This week on the show, we have an amazing guest who is also the host of the "Uncomfortable is OK" podcast, Chris Desmond!
Chris talks about his journey and experience as he was going through his everyday struggle of overcoming uncomfortable situations. He and Tom agreed on the importance of getting out of your comfort zone and constantly challenging and pushing yourself. Take baby steps so as not to overwhelm yourself and embrace discomfort. Check out this amazing episode that I'm sure you'll love.
We hope you enjoy this episode guys!

Jun 12, 2018 • 8min
#9 - My Mental Health
My experience through mental health was an interesting one. Although I was very open about my disorder, I never seemed to able to relate to people with their issues. I soon discovered that my fears were more irrational than others. I'd stay awake at nights fearing the concept of eternal suffering and the onset of severe and permanent mental illness whilst my friends and family worried about errands that needed attending to, upcoming exams and relationships. When OCD kicked in, I realised my anxiety disorder had taken a turn for the worst and something needed to be done. I hope this video helps shed some light on some of the experiences of anxiety sufferers as well as the intricacies of OCD, which is more than just turning switches off and on. Enjoy!

Jun 12, 2018 • 47min
#8 - Depression, the Inability to Feel Loved with Samantha Brennecke
This week on the show, we head back to our #interviewswiththeexperts archives for a legendary chat with our friend Samantha Brennecke!
Sammy suffered from depression. The feeling of not being loved shrouded her mind which lead to anxiety and panic attacks. Know more about how Sammy fought her way through depression.
We hope you enjoy this episode guys!

Jun 12, 2018 • 3min
#7 - Who Am I and What Am I Doing?
This week on the show is an introduction to our #mentalhealthjourney archives where Tom talks about his experiences and how he has come along with his mental health.
Tom experienced anxiety at an early age and has learned how to overcome it and be one with it. Check out this episode to know more about his journey!
We hope you enjoy this episode guys!

Jun 12, 2018 • 31min
#6 - Alcohol and Drugs, Dependencies and Spirituality with Cam Butterss
This week on the show, we head back to our #interviewswiththeexperts archives for a legendary chat with our friend Cam Butterss!
Cam is a former alcoholic who had anxiety issues as well as separation and isolation problems. Alcohol has always been in Cam's family Growing up, he was open to using drugs as well. Find out how Cam was able to overcome his addiction and mental health issues.
We hope you enjoy this episode guys!

Jun 12, 2018 • 56min
#5 - The Fit and Healthy Dad Bod for New Fathers with Paul Glezer
This week on the show, we had a great opportunity to chat with our friend Paul Glezer, founder and owner of My Wellness Wishlist!
Paul is a physical and mental health enthusiast as well as a new father to his weeks old daughter. He talks about his experiences of being a father and keeping his health and wellness check. Tommy and Paul share the same thoughts about integrity and making sure that even as a parent, one must still stay fit in all aspects.
We hope you enjoy this episode guys!

Jun 12, 2018 • 41min
#4 - Overcoming Early Drug Addiction
This week on the show, we head back to our #interviewswiththeexperts archives for a legendary chat with our friend Aaron!
Tommy and Aaron talked and shared how there aren't a lot of early interventions when it comes to mental health with children.
Find out how Aaron was able to overcome his mental health issues.
We hope you enjoy this episode guys!

Jun 12, 2018 • 50min
#3 - OCD and Anxiety Disorder with Michael Inglis
This week on the show, we head back to our #interviewswiththeexperts archives for a legendary chat with our friend Michael Inglis!
Michael is a psychologist at The Mind Room located in Melbourne's northern suburbs. Tommy and Michael sat down to have a chat about the clinical perspective of such mental health disorders as OCD, anxiety disorder and why the prevalence of such disorders has increased in today's modern society.
It's a very nostalgic chat for Tommy as this was the very same space he found himself in three years prior as a patient!
We hope you enjoy this episode guys!

Jun 12, 2018 • 49min
#2 - Dealing with Panic Attacks and Anxiety with Barry McDanough
Barry McDonagh is the creator of the Panic Away Program and author of the book DARE. A native of Ireland, he focuses to help people win against panic attacks and be free from anxiety as well as depression.
In this episode, Barry and Tom begin by sharing their thoughts on the modern world and how there seems to be a lost connection of community, akin to Johan Hari’s work in his latest book, ‘Lost Connections’.
The boys then take their conversation back towards the power of Barry’s DARE response and how these exposing methods really can work wonders against the emotion of anxiety.
This is a fantastic conversation, a great catch up for Barry and Tom and we really think you guys will love it!


