The Laughter Clinic

Unlock the transformative power of journaling with comedian and suicidologist Mark McConville as he explores a simple practice that's been embraced by history's greatest minds—from Marcus Aurelius to Oprah Winfrey. Drawing from personal experience and scientific research, Mark introduces the WATT Framework—What Action Taken Today—a powerful approach that transforms traditional journaling into a catalyst for meaningful life change. This isn't just about writing down your thoughts; it's about ...

This first TLC Pulse Episode unpacks five developments reshaping our understanding of mental health and wellbeing. Insight 1 Laughter truly might be the best medicine according to groundbreaking research from Japan showing that just four minutes of comedy viewing can significantly reduce stress and improve focus in adults. https://bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12906-025-04863-5 Insight 2 The alarming state of teacher mental health in Australia demands urg...

Loneliness and isolation contribute to various mental health conditions, but day-to-day community interactions can significantly improve our wellbeing. Research from Blue Zones—regions with high numbers of healthy centenarians—shows social connectedness is a primary driver for living a long, happy life. • Belonging to a community decreases loneliness, lowers stress, and provides crucial support during challenging times • Contributing to community activities fosters purpose, empathy, and enha...

An unexpected birthday barbecue with over 30 friends becomes a powerful reminder of the critical importance of social health alongside mental and physical wellbeing. Mark shares his personal experience of reconnecting with friends after months apart and explores how these connections provide essential emotional support, reduce loneliness, and create a meaningful sense of belonging. • Social health involves building and maintaining interpersonal relationships and effectively navigating differ...

What would you do if doctors told you that you had just 18 months to live? For Craig Coombes, the answer came in an unexpected form. When Craig received his terminal cancer diagnosis in 2012, he made a simple yet profound decision: "Make the rest of your life the best of your life." What followed was an extraordinary journey that has defied medical expectations and inspired countless people along the way. In this deeply moving conversation, Craig shares how humor transformed his relat...

Comedy meets science in this groundbreaking exploration of how both humor and laughter can transform mental health. Comedian and suicidologist Mark McConville takes us on a deeply personal journey that began with a profound encounter – a soldier who hadn't laughed in three years found more healing in one comedy show than years of traditional therapy. Through the Laughter Clinic Podcast, Mark bridges his two worlds: decades of stand-up comedy experience across Australia's comedy clubs, and hi...