Mental As Anything: Art, Anxiety and 50 Years on the Road

In this episode, host Jonothan Moran sits down with Reg and Pete from the iconic Australian band Mental As Anything as they embark on their 50th anniversary national tour. The trio dives deep into the realities of mental health, exploring how the band's seemingly cheerful party tunes often mask darker, introspective lyrics. Reg and Pete candidly discuss the music industry's "industrial hazards," including their late bandmate Martin’s severe performance anxiety, widespread substance use, and the high toll fame takes on musicians. They also share their personal battles with anxiety and depression, and how they survived a dangerous rock culture through stable marriages, luck, and shifting to a healthier lifestyle. Ultimately, they highlight the profound, zen-like power of visual art and music therapy as essential tools for healing and meditation.Order JMo's book here⁠⁠Resources ⁠⁠⁠Call Lifeline⁠⁠⁠ anytime on 13 11 14. Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114.Support: Thanks to both Amazon and Chemist Warehouse, who have proudly supported this series.Produced in the ⁠⁠⁠Pro Podcast Studios