The Mindful Men Podcast

Welcome 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 some of the lived experience of disability that enables her to thrive in this role.    Key points   In this episode Hannah shares:  ·       Her background and lived experience of disability  ·       The role of a support coordinator ·       What is Choice and Control? ·       The importance of personalising support ·       Budgeting in the NDIS ·       The NDIS review process   Key quotes   “Not everyone who is on the NDIS gets a support coordinator. It's really only those who have a few more complexities”   “you taught me that I have choice and control”   “I also work with the LGBTIQ+ community and in particular, transgender participants, because although I am cis, I do understand a lot more about it than most support coordinators”   Connect with Hannah: Website: www.tulipcoordination.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NDISTulipSupport Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/whatinthendisnow/     Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 case, media, and the impacts off all of this on his mental and physical health.    David’s story is raw, vulnerable and powerful. It explores notions of masculinity and sexuality; and despite the profound impact this event has had on David’s life, he shares how he regained control with hope and healing (and just a little bit of therapy!).    Key points   In this episode David shares:  How his parents helped him come out as gay The interplay between masculinity and sexuality The support he had from his family and friends regarding his sexuality The night he was physically and sexually abused What it was like to have a rape test Discovering he was the victim of a gay hate crime The court case and media attention The impacts on his physical and mental health How therapy saved his life Regaining control from trauma Grounding himself under his favourite tree   Key quotes   “David, if hell is filled with people like you, it can't be that bad of a place”   “A hate crime is if someone picks you out, points you out, targets you based on religion, gender, sexual orientation”   “I'm here right now and running my mouth right now because I refuse to let him win”   Connect with David: Surviving Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/surviving-podcast/id1572182113TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@david_keck Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surviving_pod/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/survivingabusepodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dskeck YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCAArGtiULHr2cE9c1phqPwg     Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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, and how alcohol and drugs helped mask the pain. He also shares how his house of cards fell down, and how this prompted him to make positive changes in his life… including learning to run long distances!   In May 2024, Lachy is running over 1000km from Brisbane to Sydney for mental health. He’s doing it to promote awareness of mental health, and raise money for charity Heart On My Sleeve. Join us as we explore how running has helped Lachy turn a rock bottom moment into inspiration for all of us.   Key points   In this episode Lachy shares:  The feeling of being let down by his father How alcohol and drugs helped him cope How he developed a belief that he wasn't good enough The moment he came close to taking his own life How running helped him improve his mental health The experience of doing his first ultra-marathon How his running has evolved The Brisbane to Sydney run he is planning to complete The charity Heart On My Sleeve   Key quotes   "All I ever wanted to be was someone else. I never wanted to be myself because I didn't think I was good enough.”   "I went through my life and I always believed I was destined for greatness. And I think I lent on that to assume something was just going to happen in my life.”   "For so long, vulnerability has been disguised as weakness when it's really a strength."   Connect with Lachy: Donate: https://fundraising.heartonmysleeve.org/1000-km-brisbane-to-sydney-runCharity: https://www.heartonmysleeve.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lachycam_runs/     Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon   --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Welcome 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 feedback about how it is helping you to grow mindfully, send me an email hello@mindful-men.com.au   Key Points   In the full episode, I share: How engaging with community can have positive impacts on connection, happiness, and personal growth. How creating your own community can be empowering and fulfilling. Feedback from listeners Come and join our Facebook Community Come and join Blokes, Boards and Brews   Key quotes   "I think for a long time I've expected community to come to me”   “Sometimes, particularly if we’ve moved around and we’re fro the place where we grew up. It’s very hard to get in on some of these cliques that already exist in your new location."    Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 healthy ways.   Dr Brian Tierney is a somatic psychologist in private practice and a professor of neuroscience and psychological assessment. He has been a facilitator of men's groups for many years, is a dancer, a trauma resolution expert, a drama therapist, a clown trainer, and a father of two. Brian sits down with me to discuss how somatic psychology and archetypes can be used to support men to recognise and release their trauma. It’s a fascinating discussion that includes his work with men’s groups; and the transformation men experience when they go deep with other men.    Key points   In the full episode Brian shares:  The benefits of clown training How Somatic Psychology can help release trauma What archetypes are How our archetypes change over time Why social constructions of masculinity are toxic The transformations he sees in the men’s groups he facilitates   Key quotes   "When we don't receive something, you can’t really give it.”   “The social construction of masculinity is toxic.”   “You come to see a somatic psychologist and they are like a plumber."   Connect with Stan: Website: www.somaticdoctor.comWebsite: www.connectioncrucible.com   Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 unnatural. But there is strength and courage and self-compassion; and this can be learned through Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT).    Dr Stan Steindl joins me this week to explore CFT and how it can support men to become the best version of themselves. Stan is a Clinical psychologist in private practice at Psychology Consultants Pty Ltd, and an adjunct professor at the university of Queensland School of Psychology. He is also a TedX speaker, and host of Compassion in a T-Shirt. In the full episode Stan shares:  What compassion is and why it is important How he defines trauma and suffering  Why men avoid self-compassion What Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) is  Supporting men to increase their self-compassion 4 little steps to start practicing self-compassion   Key quotes   "Compassion is a sensitivity to suffering in self and others with a commitment to try and alleviate and prevent it”   "Often self-compassion is the tougher choice in the service of health and wellbeing”   “Often men can baulk at the idea of self-compassion because they think its self-pity"   Connect with Stan: Website: www.stansteindl.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCujCvGkc_TFF7KmA0Sk4E7A Private Practice: www.psychologyconsultants.com.au    Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Welcome 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. This week I sit down with holistic epigenetic coach Chris Barnes from Chris Barnes Wellness. Chris brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into men’s health, having lived and breathed the industry for over 15 years. He’ll talk us through what epigenetics and bio-hacking is – and how it can benefit us to improve our health and wellbeing and turn back the aging clock.    Key points   In this episode Chris shares:  -       Life as a father and the importance of nature for our health -       How the loss of his father prompted him to take control of his health and wellbeing -       Chronological age vs biological or epigenetic age -       What exactly epigenetics and bio-hacking is -       Why its important for men to improve their health and wellbeing -       How to model and educate our kids on eating and treating our body well  -       How he specifically helps people explore epigenetics and bio-hacking   Quotes   "We have the potential to thrive right up until our last days.”   "It's so easy to get trapped into sitting on the couch and vegging out and missing out on everything that’s out there.”   “Your genes are definitely not your destiny.”   "If you're aging for every chronological year more biologically, it's a big risk factor for a lot of chronic disease."   Connect with Chris: Website: www.chrisbarneswellness.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisbarneswellness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisbarneswellness/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGpK0-WpfKjJ1eVMU9wgl4Q   Amplified Wellness Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3myUxXekaAL0XYWCdAfnPv   Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Welcome 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… grab the pen and paper or make a mental note. This episode is full of one-liners that will help you turn those negative thoughts into positive ones!   Key points   In this episode, I share:  How negative self talk can impact us The therapy tool I use to catch negative thoughts and turn them into positive ones Common examples of negative self-talk and positive ones What you can do right now to work on negative thoughts  How to disempower negative thoughts with humour   Quotes   “When we’re in the negative loop cycle we feel like we’re out of control”    “How many times do we say “I can’t do it” to ourselves? An easy way to reframe that is I can do it"    Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 the National Cannabis Industry Awards. He shares his struggle with anxiety and addiction, and his journey from DJ to Doctor… using ADHD to supercharge his focus to support his clients thrive in life.    Key points   In this episode James shares:  -       What being a father means to him -       The impact anxiety and addiction had on his life -       Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult -       How hyper-fixation helped him to study medicine -       Life as a lived experience GP -       How pharmaceuticals have prevented the expansion of medicinal cannabis in western medicine -       The benefits of medicinal cannabis -       His advice and tips for those struggling with ADHD   Quotes   “If you're in a job where it's hindering your ADHD, you're gonna have to change it.”   "The faults I'm finding in myself and where they are from, I want to make sure my little fella doesn't get it.”   "The more open and honest I've been about my struggles, the better people have responded. And the more people accept it and relate to me."   Connect with James: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.james.stewart/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DoctorJStewartLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjs/ Website - https://www.drjamesstewart.com.au/    Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 headache and pins and needles, resulted in hospitalisation, vision loss, memory loss, seizures and more. Ali shares how this challenge changed her life forever… and the lives of her husband, children, family and friends. Join us as we dive into life after a stroke. We’ll talk symptoms, diagnoses, recovery, family, work and so much more!   Key points   In this episode Ali shares:  -       Her story of having a stroke -       The physical, mental and emotional impacts of stroke -       How her stroke impacted her family life -       The systems she had to put in place to manage her day -       Sharing her story on the Challenges That Change Us Podcast   Quotes   "In my experience, there's more learnings when I get it wrong or when I'm up against challenges”   "I don't have a lot of memory of that time but I remember fighting through every day.”   "I wasn't the person that he married. I was homeless in my body, I was homeless in my mind."   Connect with Ali: Website: www.trialtitudeperformance.com.au Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/challengesthatchangeusPodcast: https://podfollow.com/challenges-that-change-us My chat with Ali: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3TTUeakHA5DNQ80yKxk6lN?si=3Xle8XBwQ2OZZOXaS91J3w     Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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. Thomas shares his insights into the impacts of stress and burnout on his life, including how it impacted his sense of self, his drive and his friendships. Thomas also shares how breath work can help us to release stress, and why this is an important tool that can support men to improve their health and wellbeing.     Key points   In this episode Thomas’ shares:  -       What being a dad means to him -       How stress has shown up in his life -       What led him to discover breath work -       How breath work changed his life -       How he turned breath work into a business -       Different breathing techniques  -       What a breath work session looks like with him -       How breath work can support men   Quotes   "You start getting these little nudges from the universe and if you don't listen one day it hits you with a big stick.”   "For the first time, you don’t know you're burning out until someone points it out to you."   “that space where you can get everyone together, and that shared experience. It's something quite powerful.”   Connect with Thomas Website: https://www.breathspacewiththomas.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-beresford/ Dimash “SOS”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUARjexCTlQ    Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 inspiration, and by sharing your story you might just inspire someone else to share theirs.    To help inspire more men across the world to embrace storytelling – I also NEED YOUR HELP! Please give this show a 5 star rating on your podcast platform. The more 5 stars we have – the higher up the podcast rankings ladder we go. And once this happens, millions of men will start to see all the amazing stories that we bring each week on The Mindful Men Podcast   Key points In this episode I share:  ·       How good it feels to share stories ·       Challenges we experience sharing stories ·       Life as a podcaster ·       The positive impacts of sharing stories ·       A plea for help – Give this podcast a 5 star rating! ·       Some ideas for you to start sharing your story   Quotes "The more and more I shared my story, the easier things became.”   "You're never gonna know what someone is gonna say to your story, if you don't share your story in the first place"    Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 shares his story of hitting rock bottom after his military career, to transforming lives through natural therapies. We chat about his journey including military life, PTSD, alcoholism, suicide and family; and learn about the different types of yoga that can help improve the wellbeing of veterans and first responders.    Key points   In this episode Shane shares:  -        His military career -        His mental health following his military career -        The wake up call he needed to have  -        Hitting rock bottom and being hospitalised for mental health treatment -        The impact of mental health on his family -        Alcoholism and getting sober -        How he discovered yoga and how it changed his life  -        How he became a yoga teacher -        His mentoring through Buddy Up Australia   Quotes   "If the people you've been surrounding yourself with up until now aren't leading you along the right path, then maybe it's time to step away from them a little bit.”   "I worked out that if I want to get better, it's up to me.”   "All I could focus on was myself, and I had no realisation what was happening in the world around me."   Connect with Shane: Buddy Up Australia: www.buddyupaustralia.org Instagram: www.instagram.com/buddyupaustralia Front Line Yoga: www.frontlineyoga.com.auFacebook: www.facebook.com/FrontlineYogaInc   Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 registered nurse at the game who saved his life.    Nathan shares his story of adapting to life with disability. From being a footy star, to needing 24/7 disability support to survive, he bravely shares how disability has taken almost everything away from him. Nathan draws strength from being a loving father or two, and highlights the importance of getting back to work; but also the support of his family, friends and footy community.    Key points   In this episode Nathan shares:  His career in Rugby League How a spinal cord injury playing country footy changed his life  Life after footy, including his wife giving birth shortly after his injury How his children reacted to his injury What he used as his motivation to get better The steps he took to recovery post injury  The impact his injury and recovery had on his family His experience with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) The importance of mateship for his recovery His advice for those going through something similar    Quotes   "It was grim mate. Not gonna lie, it was the worst day of my life.”   "You don't ever want your kid to look at you like "what's wrong?”   Connect with Nathan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathan_stapleton_/   Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 our approach. And this is what Mentoring Men is doing – providing a free mentoring service for men Australia wide. It’s not about replacing therapists, but about complementing them with boots on the ground support to overcome life’s challenges.    And joining me to share the Mentoring Men story is CEO Simon Jarvis. Simon shares his journey into Mentoring Men, and the valuable work their mentors do for men in need. He also leaves us with some wonderful insights into his own fatherhood journey, including his love for everyone’s favourite TV show, Bluey.    In this episode, Simon shares: His journey into the mental health field His realisation that men need more support The services Mentoring Men provide How we need to evolve support provided to men A Mentoring Men success story The mentor/mentoree process Key Quotes:   "It is hard to open up. And it is hard to even just go to a GP or go to a doctor and ask.”   "Providing that opportunity to use language men resonate with really gives us a better insight into what’s going on.”   "Our mentors get out of it as much as our mentees."   Connect with Simon: Website: www.mentoringmen.org.au   Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 new directions. And this week’s episode offers that through Stories of Hope.    Kerrie Atherton is the Founder of Stories of Hope Australia/Worldwide, and Empower Life Solutions. She is also an author and Trauma and Addictions Recovery Counsellor – providing much needed support for those struggling and without hope. Kerrie bravely shares her story of childhood trauma, mental health, suicide and addiction with the hope that it inspires you to face your fears and reach out for support if you need it.     In this episode, Kerrie shares: Her experiences of childhood trauma The emotional, spiritual and physical impacts of trauma Her relationship with alcohol Attending Alcoholics Anonymous at 16 years of age Her experience of suicide at 18 years of age How Alcoholics Anonymous saved her The impact of trauma on her relationships  How she broke the pattern of abuse and started healing How 'Stories of Hope' came about Why she started her clinic and the therapy she now does Key Quotes:  "For a recovering alcoholic or addict life is like an unsolved jigsaw puzzle. One that you cannot put the pieces back together again. But you can make a new puzzle.”   "For many people that feel like they're so hopeless that they want to end their life, they don't actually want to die, they just don't know how to live anymore.”   “My dad taught me to fear everything, so I was born into fear."   Connect with Kerrie: Website: www.storiesofhope.com.auWebsite: www.empowerlifesolutions.com.au   Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Welcome 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 year with clearer focus. We’ll combine your end of year reflections with your core values and SMART goals to kickstart 2024 and achieve great things.   But before you hit play – make sure you listen to 104 and 105 because they give you some background to this episode.    In this episode, I share: How setting new years resolutions can have a negative effect on us Why smart goals are a good mindfulness tool for the new year What SMART goals are Examples of what SMART goals can be for you  How linking SMART goals with your values can make it stick  Other steps to use to help you achieve SMART goals   Key Quotes:   “We’ve all been there and gone I want to lose 10 kilos in the first month and losing 10 kg of weight is really hard.”   “SMART goals are specific, they're measurable, they're achievable, they're relevant, and they're time based”   “The reason we set goals is because we want to move forward. We want to achieve something”    Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Welcome 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 tackling your finances once and for all.    This week I’ll go through some core values and how they can be applied to your daily life. I’ll also guide you through how you can discover your own core values, and leave you inspired to turn off the auto-pilot, and switch on conscious living!    In this episode, I share: Why values are important – particularly during the holiday season The benefits of values-based work How I used values to stop drinking alcohol 3 big values – trust, honesty and respect Some values you probably haven’t thought about before How to discover your core values 3 things to remember about values How to use your values as a life compass   Key Quotes:   “It's about using our values to guide and direct us to make better decisions, to do the things that we want, to be that authentic self and to essentially reach for the stars”   “And if you want to be free, you kind of need to take responsibility. And so values based work helps us do this”   “do something small every day. That's how you use them as your life compass”   Buy the values cards here: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/product-category/values-cards/ Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Welcome 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 season.    I’m also inviting you to join the Mindful Men Community group on Facebook. It’s free and can help you to connect with mindful men from all over the world.     In this episode, I share: How to identify and acknowledge the emotions that arise during the holiday period. How to more effectively reflect on the entire year.  How to recognize personal growth and resilience. The importance of connecting with others. Why rest and self-care is important. One thing to try if you can’t navigate Christmas and New Years alone. Join the Mindful Men Facebook Community (link below)   Key Quotes:   "If nothing positive has happened but you're still here, you're still trying... that’s called resilience”   “this year I'm being very mindful and I'm not going to be drinking because previous years I would overdo it”    Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message

Trigger 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 outsider now, she sees it as a cult or sect, whilst acknowledging that those still within the church see it more as a family. And this is where we focus our discussion – the family – and how patriarchy showed within the church and took away her freedom.     In this episode, Rosie shares: Her life in a cult/sect/family Some of the main differences between mainstream religions and her cult/sect/family The expectations and beliefs that were put on her The moment she realised there was a life outside the church  How she navigated family and relationships after leaving the church The impacts of patriarchy on her life Her process of healing and growing Her mentoring through Awake Aware Mindful Key Quotes:   "We weren't encouraged to be part of the world”   “Doing all these things to be the good woman but there is resentment underneath it, that just discounts all of it."   “Where am I? Here. What am I doing? This. What time is it? Now.”   Connect with Rosie: Website: www.awakeawaremindful.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awakeawaremindful Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakeawaremindful/   Connect with Mindful Men Website at www.mindful-men.com.au Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2050441875316594 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindful.men.aus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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***   Stay Mindful, Simon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mindfulmen/message