Episodios

  • In this episode, Tim Neale shares his transformative journey from suffering with anxiety, depression, and PTSD to becoming a trauma coach. He discusses the profound impact of emotional healing and the development of the Trinity Coherence Healing System.


    Tim emphasises the importance of understanding and processing trauma, and how his approach, termed 'human software engineering', empowers clients to heal themselves by tuning into their own emotional intelligence.


    In this conversation, Tim Neale discusses the importance of creating safe spaces for clients to heal and process their emotions. He shares insights on the diversity of clients he works with, the common challenges they face, and the transformative power of connection in healing. Tim emphasises the role of the nervous system in anxiety and fear responses, particularly in public speaking situations. He also highlights the significance of holistic approaches in coaching, integrating emotional health with physical well-being. The conversation concludes with practical advice for those struggling with anxiety, encouraging them to seek ways to process their feelings and experiences.


    Key takeaways

    •Tim Neale suffered from anxiety, depression, and PTSD for over 30 years.

    •He discovered emotional healing that transformed his life.

    •Tim's journey led him to become a trauma coach.

    •He emphasises the importance of processing trauma and emotions.

    •Tim developed the Trinity Coherence Healing System with his business partner.

    •He believes in empowering clients to heal themselves.

    •Tim's approach is based on understanding the body's signals.

    •He experienced a significant shift after a transformative workshop.

    •Tim's work focuses on helping clients with overwhelmed nervous systems.

    •He advocates for a deeper understanding of emotional intelligence. Creating a safe space is crucial for healing.

    •Clients come from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

    •The nervous system's overwhelm manifests in various symptoms.

    •Healing often involves addressing underlying trauma.

    •Public speaking anxiety can be transformed through connection.

    •Holistic approaches enhance emotional and physical well-being.

    •Self-acceptance is key to personal growth.

    •Emotional health is a significant component of overall health.

    •Processing emotions is essential for overcoming anxiety.

    •Everyone has the tools within them to heal.


    You can find out more here: https://trinitycoherence.co.uk/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this conversation, Kenny Mammarella-D'Cruz shares his profound journey from being a child refugee in Uganda to working with Mother Teresa in Calcutta.


    He discusses the impact of his experiences on his mental health, including overcoming OCD and other challenges. Kenny emphasises the importance of presence in healing and the transformative power of men's groups he facilitates. His insights into personal responsibility, emotional healing, and the significance of community support resonate throughout the discussion.

    In this conversation, Kenny Mammarella-D'Cruz discusses the dynamics of men's groups, emphasising the importance of accessibility to mental health support, the need for community, and the journey towards understanding masculinity. He highlights the challenges men face in expressing vulnerability and the role of spirituality in personal growth. The discussion also touches on the significance of mentorship and the inner work required to achieve authenticity and alignment in life.


    Key takeaways:

    • Kenny's work with Mother Teresa profoundly shaped his perspective on life.

    • He learned the importance of being present and responsive rather than reactive.

    • Kenny's journey involved overcoming significant mental health challenges, including OCD.

    • The men's groups he facilitates provide a safe space for emotional expression.

    • Kenny emphasises that healing is about meeting people where they are.

    • His experiences as a refugee instilled a sense of responsibility from a young age.

    • Kenny believes in the power of community support for mental health.

    • He learned to embrace vulnerability as a strength.

    • Kenny's approach to therapy is rooted in personal experience and empathy.

    • The structure of men's groups encourages open dialogue and connection. Group sessions are held daily to accommodate different schedules.

    • Men's groups provide a safe space for vulnerability and sharing experiences.

    • Accessibility to mental health support is a significant issue for many men.

    • Flexibility in scheduling is crucial for participation in support groups.

    • The importance of community and mentorship in men's lives is emphasised.

    • Spirituality plays a key role in personal growth and understanding oneself.

    • Acceptance of one's situation is the first step towards change.

    • Many men feel isolated and lack meaningful friendships.

    • Inner work is essential for achieving authenticity and alignment.

    • The protector within men often hinders their ability to live fully.


    Find out more here: https://www.themanwhisperer.co.uk/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  • In this conversation, Volker and David speak with Dominic White from AndysManClub, a charity focused on improving men's mental health through peer-to-peer support. They discuss the mission of the charity, the importance of creating a safe space for men to talk, and the impact of the pandemic on mental health.


    Dominic shares his personal journey with the charity, the role of facilitators, and the significance of humour in their sessions. The conversation highlights the need for accessible mental health support and the ongoing efforts to expand the reach of AndysManClub across the UK. In this conversation, Dom discusses the importance of emotional expression and the role of support groups in helping men navigate their mental health challenges. He emphasises the need for safe spaces where men can be themselves without the pressure of societal expectations.


    The discussion also touches on the stigma surrounding mental health, the pressures of masculinity, and the significance of community support. Dom shares personal experiences and insights on how these groups can transform lives by providing a platform for men to share their struggles and find solidarity.


    Key takeaways

    •AndysManClub aims to reduce stigma around men's mental health.

    •The charity has grown from 10 clubs to over 230 in five years.

    •Creating a safe space is crucial for men to open up.

    •The pandemic had varied impacts on individuals' mental health.

    •Facilitators are peers, not trained therapists, providing support.

    •The club's goal is to have a location within 30 minutes of every man.

    •Humour plays an important role in the support sessions.

    •Participants can choose to talk or just listen without pressure.

    •The format includes five questions to guide discussions.

    •Confidentiality is a key principle in all sessions. It's about trying to get those guys out the door in the best possible state.

    •Having a safe space allows men to take off their masks and be themselves.

    •Feeling heard is a powerful aspect of emotional healing.

    •The demand for mental health support among men is significant and growing.

    •Breaking the stigma around mental health is a continuous fight.

    •Men often feel the pressure to be the provider, which can lead to emotional bottling.

    •Support groups provide a unique environment for men to share their experiences without judgment.

    •Identity and self-perception can shift dramatically during life transitions.

    •Therapy can be inaccessible, highlighting the need for community support.

    •Knowing you're not alone in your struggles is crucial for emotional well-being.


    Find out more and your local club on https://andysmanclub.co.uk/


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode of Man Up Man Down, Mauro Stara, founder of Six Pack CEO, shares his journey from a banking career in Switzerland to becoming a peak performance coach for CEOs. He discusses the importance of addressing hormonal health, personalised coaching, and the role of blood work in achieving sustainable transformations. Mauro emphasises the physiological changes that occur with aging and how they impact fitness and health, offering insights into effective diet and lifestyle strategies for men over 35. In this conversation, Mauro discusses effective nutritional strategies for maintaining energy levels and managing weight. He emphasises the importance of meal timing, the impact of environment and habits on eating behaviours, and the role of weight loss medications. The discussion also covers the complexities of sugar consumption and the significance of investing in one's health for long-term benefits.


    Key takeaways:

    Mauro Stara specialises in coaching CEOs and business owners.He emphasises the importance of hormonal health in peak performance.Personalised coaching is key to achieving sustainable transformations.Blood work is essential for understanding individual health needs.Aging affects hormones and metabolism, requiring new fitness approaches.Resistance training is crucial for maintaining muscle mass as we age.Diet quality and macronutrient balance are vital for energy and recovery.Identifying as a 'snacker' can hinder dietary changes. Managing blood sugar levels can reduce the urge to snack.Lifestyle changes should be gradual and tailored to individual needs. Eating a balanced meal keeps sugar levels stableWeight loss medications can help but require lifestyle changes.Sugar consumption should be mindful and informed.Muscle mass affects sugar tolerance.Mindfulness can help break unhealthy eating habits.Understanding food labels is essential for health.Behaviour change is key to sustainable weight loss.

    Links to get in touch with Mauro:


    Website: https://6packceo.com/


    Special Audience Giveaway:  

    Free PDF Download: 4 Micronutrients That Boost Testosterone Levels Naturally - 6packceo.com/gift 

    Social Media Links:         

    Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/mauro.stara.944/Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/maurostaraofficial/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauro-stara-4b4295217/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode, Jack Woodhams discusses the importance of male friendships, mental health, and the initiatives he has spearheaded through Menfulness. He shares his personal journey of creating supportive spaces for men, addressing loneliness, and the stigma surrounding mental health conversations. The conversation highlights the significance of vulnerability, community support, and the role of counselling in suicide prevention.


    In this conversation, Jack Woodhams discusses the importance of open conversations about mental health, particularly among men. He emphasises the need for accessible mental health support and the unique approach of Menfulness, a charity that creates comfortable spaces for men to engage in discussions about their mental well-being.


    The conversation explores the different ways men communicate, the impact of Menfulness on participants, and the challenges of funding and growth for such initiatives. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the importance of normalising vulnerability and connection in mental health conversations.


    Key takeaways:

    •Jack Woodhams emphasises the need for male companionship and honesty in parenting.

    •The Yorkie Dads initiative was born out of a need for male support groups.

    •Mindfulness has grown alongside community events to foster connections among men.

    •Loneliness is a significant issue for men, impacting mental health and suicide rates.

    •Creating a safe space for men to express vulnerability is crucial.

    •Simple tools can facilitate deeper conversations among men.

    •Community support plays a vital role in suicide prevention efforts.

    •Direct communication about mental health can save lives.

    •Normalising discussions about counselling helps reduce stigma.

    •Fundraising efforts are driven by those who have benefited from counselling services. Counselling is a preventative measure for mental health.

    •Menfulness aims to create fun and engaging support activities.

    •Comfortable spaces encourage open conversations among men.

    •Men often prefer to communicate shoulder to shoulder rather than face to face.

    •The impact of Menfulness is evident in participants' mental health improvements.

    •Funding and capacity are challenges for expanding Menfulness.

    •Normalising vulnerability can help break down barriers in communication.

    •Most people are inherently kind and willing to help.

    •Barriers to accessing mental health support still exist.

    •Creating community and connection is vital for mental well-being.


    You can find out more on www.menfulness.org


    One more Day video

    https://youtu.be/BJetTUVyl_U?si=o5croubRhYu3aYvH


    Menfulness

    https://youtu.be/X5T858tE4bU?si=MW0EsjkkJlPa7qe_


    Our research

    https://www.facebook.com/share/r/152CFgefFq/


    Men Talking Revolution

    https://youtu.be/5E_AQkbg5NE?si=zE85eAjvWGJF01tU


    Menfulness Meets

    https://youtu.be/rsgc2APvZUU?si=4pZKPqYpb855f-xI



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode, David and Volker welcome Ben, a teacher and coach with over 20 years of experience in Buddhism. They explore Ben's journey into Buddhism, the role of mindfulness in business, and the unfolding of personal transformation. The conversation delves into the importance of finding the right teacher, the impact of meditation on personal and professional life, and the challenges of midlife transitions. In this conversation, Ben and David explore the themes of life's challenges, the significance of initiation, and the process of unlearning as individuals navigate midlife transitions. They discuss how traditional initiation ceremonies have been lost in modern society, leading to a lack of confidence and understanding in men as they face significant life changes. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of creating intentional experiences that allow individuals to reflect, unlearn societal expectations, and discover their true selves. The conversation concludes with thoughts on cyclical thinking and the nature of life and death.


    Key takeaways

    •Ben has over 20 years of experience in Buddhism.

    •He emphasizes the importance of finding a teacher.

    •Meditation is often a way to manage stress and anxiety.

    •Mindfulness can lead to personal and professional transformation.

    •The journey into Buddhism can be gradual and unfolding.

    •Ben practices silent meditation retreats annually.

    •The relationship between teacher and student is crucial.

    •Meditation can be a powerful tool for self-discovery.

    •Mindfulness practices can vary and still be effective.

    •Ben's journey reflects a blend of business and spirituality. The podcast serves as a boot camp for personal growth.

    •Initiation is crucial for transitioning from boyhood to manhood.

    •Many men lack the confidence due to missing initiation ceremonies.

    •Midlife is a time for unlearning and rediscovering oneself.

    •Cyclical thinking can provide a new perspective on life.

    •Life challenges often prompt reflection and change.

    •Creating intentional experiences can aid in personal development.

    •Unlearning societal expectations is essential for self-discovery.

    •Comfort with discomfort is necessary for growth.

    •The concept of death can be re-evaluated in a cyclical context.


    You can find out more here: https://www.tenpercentbetter.co/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode, Alex Clapp shares his inspiring journey from losing his sight and battling alcoholism to finding recovery and purpose through the Claritee Group. He discusses the importance of vulnerability, the cultural influences on drinking, and the generational shifts in attitudes towards emotions.


    Alex emphasises that it's okay to not be okay and that everyone is enough just as they are. In this conversation, Alex Clapp shares his journey through addiction and recovery, emphasising the importance of vulnerability, openness, and community support. He discusses the challenges of navigating social situations without alcohol, the mental battles faced in recovery, and the significance of creating a supportive environment for those in recovery. Alex also highlights the value of alcohol-free alternatives and the need for personal choice in the recovery process.


    Key takeaways

    •Alex Clapp's journey highlights the importance of choices in life.

    •Mental health struggles can lead to addiction if not addressed.

    •Alcohol can numb pain but ultimately leads to dependency.

    •Recovery is a personal journey that requires individual commitment.

    •Cultural norms around masculinity can hinder emotional expression.

    •Vulnerability can foster authentic connections with others.

    •Generational changes are shifting attitudes towards mental health.

    •It's crucial to seek help and not face struggles alone.

    •Creating safe spaces for recovery can empower individuals.

    •Self-acceptance is key to overcoming personal challenges. If everyone could spend 28 days working on themselves, the world would be better.

    •Addiction is an illness and doesn't discriminate.

    •Being open about struggles can create a safe space for others.

    •Accountability to others can aid in recovery.

    •Navigating social situations requires honesty about recovery.

    •Mental battles in addiction are complex and ongoing.

    •Alcohol-free alternatives can be enjoyable and fulfilling.

    •Creating a supportive community is essential for recovery.

    •Vulnerability can lead to deeper connections with others.

    •Recovery is a personal journey that requires individual choices.


    Find out more on https://www.clariteegroup.co.uk/about

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode, David and Volker welcome back Anita Malster, a mental health strategist, to discuss the complexities surrounding male mental health, particularly focusing on suicide rates among men. They explore cultural norms of masculinity, the impact of emotional suppression, and the importance of peer support.


    The conversation highlights the need for redefining masculinity, creating safe spaces for discussions, and the connection between physical and mental health. Anita shares insights from recent research and practical steps to improve mental wellbeing, emphasizing a holistic approach to mental health.


    Key takeaways

    • Cultural norms of masculinity can lead to emotional suppression.

    • Men often feel pressured to conceal their emotions.

    • Loneliness and isolation are significant issues for men.

    • Peer support can facilitate open conversations about mental health.

    • Redefining masculinity is essential for improving mental health outcomes.

    • Physical health and mental health are interconnected.

    • Creating safe spaces encourages men to share their feelings.

    • Men often downplay their emotional struggles when seeking help.

    • Holistic approaches to mental health include diet, exercise, and emotional support.

    • Engaging in activities can help men connect and communicate better.


    You can find out more and get in touch with Anita via: https://blossomtraining.org/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this conversation, Ryan Parke, a men's coach and TEDx speaker, discusses the critical role of testosterone in male mental health and overall well-being. He shares personal experiences that led him to explore the connection between hormones, lifestyle, and mental health, particularly focusing on the alarming rates of male suicide. Ryan emphasises the importance of understanding testosterone's impact on both physical and mental health, debunking myths surrounding the hormone, and advocating for lifestyle changes to improve testosterone levels. He also addresses the challenges men face in getting tested for testosterone and the need for greater awareness and education on this topic.

     

    Ryan Parke discusses the critical factors affecting testosterone levels in men, emphasising the importance of diet, exercise, vitamin D, and sobriety. He shares personal experiences and scientific insights, highlighting how lifestyle changes can significantly improve testosterone levels and overall well-being. The discussion also touches on the stigma surrounding testosterone and its role in men's health, advocating for a holistic approach to well-being that includes physical health, mental health, and lifestyle choices.

     

    Main takeaways:

    ¡     Men's mental health is often overlooked, leading to tragic outcomes.

    ¡     Testosterone plays a crucial role in men's health and well-being.

    ¡     Lifestyle factors significantly impact testosterone levels.

    ¡     Sleep and diet are critical for maintaining healthy testosterone levels.

    ¡     There is a stigma around discussing testosterone and men's health.

    ¡     Men should be proactive in understanding their testosterone levels.

    ¡     Low testosterone is linked to higher rates of depression and suicide in men.

    ¡     Education on testosterone is lacking among healthcare professionals.

    ¡     Simple lifestyle changes can improve testosterone levels.

    ¡     Awareness of mental health issues in men is essential for prevention. Diet significantly impacts testosterone levels.

    ¡     Exercise can be more effective than antidepressants for mental health.

    ¡     Vitamin D is essential for testosterone production.

    ¡     Alcohol consumption can drastically lower testosterone levels.

    ¡     Lifestyle changes can lead to significant health improvements.

    ¡     Processed fats are detrimental to health.

    ¡     Natural fats are beneficial for hormone production.

    ¡     Testosterone is a key marker for overall well-being.

    ¡     Regular health checks are important for maintaining testosterone levels.

    ¡     Holistic health approaches are crucial for men's well-being.

     

     

     

    Ryan’s website: TheMensCoach.co.uk

    Follow Ryan: @RyanParkeTMC

    Zoom with Ryan: TheMensCoach.co.uk/collaboration

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode, Volker and David welcome James Davis, a coaching psychologist and co-founder of The Midlife Mentors. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of midlife, focusing on testosterone levels, andropause, and lifestyle changes that can enhance health and happiness. James shares his journey from psychology to coaching, emphasising the importance of understanding hormonal changes in men and how they can impact overall well-being.


    The conversation also touches on the dynamics of working with a partner and the reflections brought on by the COVID pandemic. In this conversation, James Davis discusses the complexities of balancing business and personal relationships, the evolution of values in partnerships, and the importance of community and social connections as we navigate life transitions.


    The dialogue also touches on the changing dynamics of work and how these shifts impact our sense of belonging and emotional health, particularly for men. The speakers emphasise the need for vulnerability and maintaining social networks to enhance well-being as we age.


    Key takeaways:

    •James Davis is a coaching psychologist and co-founder of The Midlife Mentors.

    •Testosterone levels in men are declining, impacting health and well-being.

    •Lifestyle changes can naturally boost testosterone levels.

    •Andropause is the male equivalent of menopause, marked by declining testosterone.

    •Midlife can be a time of transformation rather than crisis.

    •COVID has accelerated reflections on personal values and life choices.

    •It's important to understand the hormonal changes that occur in midlife.

    •The dynamics of working with a partner can be challenging but rewarding.

    •Men and women often seek coaching from different mentors based on gender.

    •Values change over time, and it's crucial to reassess them in midlife. It's crucial to separate work and personal life to maintain a healthy relationship.

    •Evolving values can significantly impact how couples work together.

    •Recognising the dynamics in relationships helps in fostering collaboration.

    •Isolation is a major risk factor for mortality, especially in men.

    •Men often struggle to maintain deep social connections compared to women.

    •Vulnerability should be seen as a strength, not a weakness.

    •Community and shared experiences contribute to longevity and happiness.

    •The shift from traditional work environments affects community dynamics.

    •Maintaining social networks is vital for emotional health as we age.

    •Future generations will face different challenges and opportunities than we did.


    Find out more on https://themidlifementors.com/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Neil Smith, co-founder of Mettle, discusses his journey from being a successful TV executive to starting a tech company focused on men's mental health. He shares his personal experiences with meditation, breath-work, and hypnosis, and how these practices have transformed his life. Neil explains the mission of Mettle to provide men with a toolkit for mental fitness and break down the barriers that prevent men from seeking help. The app offers short meditations, breath-work exercises, and mind hacking techniques to help men improve their confidence, resilience, and overall well-being.


    In this conversation, Neil Smith discusses the benefits of meditation and breath-work, as well as his experiences with ayahuasca. He explains how meditation and breath-work can help reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Neil also shares his personal journey with ADHD and how meditation helped him. He emphasises the importance of finding the right environment and trained professionals when considering ayahuasca.


    Neil introduces his app, Mettle, which offers guided meditations and breath-work exercises for men.


    Key takeaways:


    •Neil Smith left his successful career as a TV executive to start Mettle, a mental fitness app focused on men's mental health.

    •The app offers tools such as meditation, breath-work, and hypnosis to help men improve their mental well-being.

    •Mettle aims to break down the barriers that prevent men from seeking help by providing a toolkit that is accessible, science-based, and straight-talking.

    •The app is subscription-based and costs about £50 per year, making it affordable and encouraging users to invest in their mental fitness. Meditation and breathwork can be effective tools for reducing stress and improving mental well-being.

    •Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogen, can be used as a tool for exploring the subconscious and healing trauma, but it should be approached with caution and in a safe environment.

    •Finding the right environment and trained professionals is crucial when considering ayahuasca.

    •Mettle app offers guided meditations and breath-work exercises specifically designed for men.


    Find out more at https://bemettle.com/ or download the app from the app store.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode, Volker and David welcome back William Porter, author of 'Alcohol Explained', to discuss the complexities of alcohol consumption, addiction, and its effects on mental health. They explore the societal pressures surrounding drinking, the science behind addiction, and the cultural shifts towards alcohol-free lifestyles. William emphasises the importance of understanding the information about alcohol to make informed decisions about drinking. The conversation also touches on the future of alcohol consumption and the growing acceptance of alcohol-free alternatives.


    Key takeaways:

    •William Porter's mission is to educate about alcohol's effects.

    •Socializing can be enjoyable without alcohol.

    •Alcohol is a depressant that affects mental health.

    •Understanding addiction is key to making informed choices.

    •Cultural attitudes towards alcohol are changing.

    •Alcohol consumption can lead to a cycle of dependency.

    •The importance of REM sleep for mental health is crucial.

    •Alcohol-free options are becoming more popular in society.

    •The subconscious links alcohol consumption with socializing.

    •Education about alcohol can lead to healthier choices.


    You can go to William’s website, www.alcoholexplained.com, where you can read some of the chapters of his book for free.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • James Wilson, also known as "The Sleep Geek," returned to the "Man Up / Man Down" podcast to discuss the complexities of sleep and the many misconceptions surrounding it. Wilson, who comes from a family with a long history in the bed industry, has expanded his expertise into helping people improve their sleep quality. His work spans various sectors, including sports teams and corporate environments, where he helps individuals identify and address their sleep issues.


    Wilson's approach to sleep is both practical and evidence-based. He critiques the wellness industry's tendency to oversimplify or exaggerate solutions, particularly in marketing products that claim to solve sleep problems universally. For example, he discusses the overemphasis on blue light from screens as a sleep disruptor, noting that recent research suggests this impact may be overstated, especially if individuals receive adequate daylight exposure.


    Wilson also addresses the common issue of pets disrupting sleep. He notes that while many people allowed pets into their bedrooms during the lockdown, this can lead to significant sleep disturbances. He is now collaborating with a "sleep vet" to develop solutions for this problem, emphasizing that a human bed is not designed for animals and that both humans and pets would benefit from sleeping separately.


    Another key topic Wilson explores is the role of genetics in sleep. He explains that many sleep characteristics, such as whether someone is a "morning person" or a "night owl," are inherited. He also points out that sleep disorders and the general quality of sleep can often be traced through family lines.


    Wilson's holistic approach to improving sleep involves understanding an individual's unique needs and circumstances rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions. He advises listeners to be sceptical of broad claims made by the sleep and wellness industries and to seek solutions that are tailored to their specific sleep challenges. His app, KipMate, is designed to help users identify their sleep problems and find personalized solutions.


    In conclusion, Wilson advocates for a more nuanced and personalised approach to sleep, warning against the oversimplified solutions often marketed by the wellness industry. He encourages people to explore their sleep habits and needs comprehensively, considering factors like environment, genetics, and lifestyle.


    https://thesleepgeek.co.uk/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Dave Ferguson, a martial arts expert with over four decades of experience, appeared on the Man Up / Man Down podcast to discuss his innovative approach to martial arts and mental well-being. Ferguson created the Integrated Martial Arts (IMA) method during the 2020-2021 lockdowns, targeting middle-aged men facing various life challenges. Combining traditional and modern martial arts techniques, his programme is designed to address both physical and psychological needs.


    Ferguson’s journey into this field is rooted in personal experiences. Despite a stable 25-year civil service career, he faced numerous traumatic events during the pandemic, including a friend's brain injury, personal health scares, and encounters with the police. These experiences, compounded by dissatisfaction in his civil service role, led him to focus on creating something meaningful. The IMA programme was his response, providing a structured way to help men regain confidence, manage stress, and improve their overall well-being


    The programme blends physical training with insights into brain health and neurology, recognising the importance of mental well-being alongside physical fitness. Ferguson highlights the psychological benefits of martial arts, noting that learning these skills boosts confidence and can help men feel more capable in potentially threatening situations, even if the goal isn’t combat.


    Initially, Ferguson shared his techniques with colleagues through basic videos and verbal instructions, which evolved into a more structured programme. His approach is holistic, catering to a wide range of participants—from those with no prior experience to seasoned athletes. The IMA method includes one-on-one sessions and group interactions, allowing men to share common challenges and learn from each other in a supportive environment.


    Ferguson emphasises the importance of preventative care, particularly regarding men’s health, and has integrated brain health education into his programme. He believes that understanding the neurological aspects of health can significantly impact long-term success in maintaining well-being.


    The episode concluded with Ferguson offering resources and support through his website, encouraging listeners to take proactive steps in improving their physical and mental health.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode of "Man Up / Man Down," Lee Godwin, co-founder and COO of Emplomind, and a champion for mental health and suicide prevention, shares his personal and professional journey in the mental health space. Lee's involvement in mental health advocacy was profoundly shaped by a personal tragedy when his sister attempted suicide in 2019. This event prompted him to reflect on his family's communication and led him to become more actively involved in suicide prevention, eventually partnering with organisations like Papyrus and Ripple Suicide Prevention.


    A leading mental health organisation and platform which Lee co-founded, focuses on providing mental health support in the workplace. Their platform uses technology to connect employees with therapists, counsellors, and coaches, offering immediate, anonymous support for various issues, from anxiety and stress to career development. This approach aims to remove traditional barriers to mental health support, such as long waiting times for therapy.


    The conversation also touches on the broader societal challenges of mental health, particularly how digital technology influences young people. Lee discusses the balance parents must strike in managing their children's exposure to technology while encouraging outdoor activities and face-to-face interactions. He notes the significant differences he observes in his daughters' behaviours when they disconnect from digital devices and engage in physical play.


    Moreover, the discussion explores the role of technology in suicide prevention, highlighting Ripple Suicide Prevention's innovative approach. Ripple uses simple yet effective technology to intercept harmful online searches, offering users an opportunity to redirect from harmful content towards hopeful resources. This intervention provides a moment of calm and a chance to reconsider harmful actions, demonstrating how technology can be leveraged positively in mental health.


    The episode underscores the importance of awareness, open communication, and proactive support in mental health. Lee emphasises that while there is more recognition of mental health issues today, driven partly by the overwhelming flow of information in the digital age, challenges remain in ensuring that people receive the help they need promptly and effectively.


    Lee’s message is clear: while technology has its pitfalls, it also holds tremendous potential to support mental health, provided it is used thoughtfully and with a human-centric approach.


    https://emplomind.co.uk/

    https://www.ripplesuicideprevention.com/

    https://www.papyrus-uk.org/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-godwin-4553a819/

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • This is the live recording of our event in London on the 24th of October 2024.


    Marc Convey and Rose Rowkins joined David Pawsey and Volker Ballueder on Stage to discuss 'Overcoming Adversity' and 'Suicide Prevention'.

    You find a video recording on YouTube.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In this episode of "Man Up / Man Down," hosts David and Volker are joined by Ryan Hopkins, a global best-selling wellbeing author, Chief Impact Officer at Jaaq, and Executive Engagement Advisor at Bupa. The conversation begins with a light-hearted introduction to Ryan's extensive background, including his TED Talk from a toilet, a symbolic act representing his journey from severe anxiety to advocating for mental wellbeing.


    Ryan shares his personal story, highlighting a dark period in his life when he suffered from anxiety, bulimia, and depression, which eventually led him to contemplate suicide. He credits his mother for saving his life and describes how he gradually opened up about his struggles, which eventually led to his career in mental health and wellbeing.


    The discussion then shifts to Ryan’s work at Jaaq, a mental health platform that provides accessible, clinically validated content in a user-friendly format. The platform features stories from well-known figures and experts, aiming to engage users and provide them with the right information at the right time.


    Ryan emphasises that wellbeing is about small, consistent actions, rather than big, overwhelming changes.


    Ryan also talks about his book, "52 Weeks of Wellbeing," which offers readers practical tips and questions to help them navigate their own wellbeing journey. He notes that while the book was initially intended to be light-hearted, it evolved into a deeply researched guide, now being translated into multiple languages.


    The conversation touches on the challenges of promoting mental health in different industries, particularly in traditionally macho environments like construction. Ryan highlights the importance of meeting people where they are and using language that resonates with them.


    As the discussion progresses, Ryan mentions the challenges Jaaq faces, particularly in prioritising their efforts as the platform grows. He stresses the importance of focusing on impactful initiatives and maintaining a balance between ambition and execution.


    The episode concludes with Ryan reflecting on the progress made in mental health conversations, noting that while it has become easier to talk about past struggles, there is still a reluctance to discuss ongoing issues.


    He advocates for creating environments where people feel safe to talk about their current mental state and stresses the need for businesses to recognise the value of investing in employee wellbeing.


    https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanhopkinsuk/

    https://www.theryanhopkins.com/

    https://www.jaaq.org

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  • In this episode of "Man Up / Man Down," hosts Volker and David are joined by Sal Jeffries, a coach specialising in helping founders over 40 redefine their purpose, increase performance, and cultivate a peaceful mind through psychology, emotional regulation, and body intelligence.


    Sal begins by explaining his work with clients, focusing on the inner game—how individuals think, feel, and act. He shares his personal journey, being a midlife man himself at 52, and how he transitioned from a stressed career in photography to becoming a coach and yoga teacher. This shift was driven by his desire to manage stress better and embody a healthier lifestyle.


    Sal emphasises the importance of mindset in making long-term, sustainable changes, particularly as one ages.


    David shares his recent experience of recovering from a severe leg injury, expressing frustration with how it has impacted his ability to stay active—a key part of his identity. Sal offers advice on how to cope with such setbacks, highlighting the importance of acceptance and self-compassion. He suggests focusing on what one can do rather than dwelling on limitations and emphasises the need for a long-term commitment to health and fitness, rather than expecting quick fixes.


    The conversation touches on the concept of self-compassion, with Sal defining it as an active state of being kind to oneself, especially during difficult times. He contrasts this with negative self-talk, which often stems from a critical inner voice that can be traced back to early life experiences. Sal shares how he has worked on quieting his own inner critic, which he refers to as the "dictator," and how understanding its origins can help in managing it.


    Volker and Sal also discuss the pressures of modern life, including the constant stimulation from digital devices and the importance of creating intentional space for boredom and reflection. Sal advocates for environment design—consciously shaping one’s surroundings to reduce distractions and foster well-being.


    The episode concludes with Sal encouraging listeners to adopt a mindset of incremental change and intentionality in their lives, whether in fitness, business, or personal growth. He emphasises that understanding what you truly want and making conscious choices towards those goals is key to living a fulfilling life.


    Sal also invites listeners to connect with him for coaching, particularly those in midlife seeking to navigate challenges and find greater purpose and balance.


    You can find him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saljefferies/ or find out more via his website: https://linktr.ee/saljefferies where you can discover his podcast, YT channel and more.


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