Episode 70: A Mother–Son Conversation on Endurance, Men’s Mental Health & Growth

Belinda sits down with her eldest son Hayden, just weeks after his 24th birthday and fresh off completing a 24-hour endurance challenge for men’s mental health.What started as a physical test quickly became something much deeper. Hayden opens up about pushing through pain, self-doubt, vulnerability, and the mental stories that arise when the body is exhausted and the mind is stripped back.They also explore why he took part in the Dads4Dads challenge despite not being a father, family, growing up, the influence of environment, learning through mistakes, and what it means to become proud of who you are becoming.In this episode, we cover:Why Hayden said yes to a 24-hour endurance challenge for men’s mental healthThe hardest physical and mental moments of the challengeWhat vulnerability looked like surrounded by other menLessons from Kokoda and endurance trainingHow family, environment and life experiences shaped himThe power of listening instead of fixingA raw mother–son conversation about growth, mistakes and self-prideWith Mother’s Day approaching, Belinda also puts Hayden on the spot and asks: “What do you think I’ve done well as a mum?”This episode is a reminder that hard things don’t just test us physically - they reveal who we are, what we’re carrying, and who we’re becoming.Podcast Sponsor:Evolution Botanicals specialises in functional mushrooms, tonic herbs, and superfoods to support energy, immunity, focus, strength, gut health and wellness. Visit: ⁠https://evolutionbotanicals.com.au/and⁠ add BTS10 for 10% off your first order.Connect with Belinda:Website: www.belindaanderson.com.au(sign up to her Newsletter to receive updates on retreats, podcast episodes, and insights to help you heal, grow & thrive).Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belinda.andersonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/belindaandersonau