A Safe Space: Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation

What stories of strength, struggle and connection shape life in rural Australia?Hosts John Mannion and Leesa Scanlan are joined by fifth-generation farmer and Fat Farmers Co-founder Ben Wundersitz, and Justine Drew, Acting Director, Emergency Management, Drought and Resilience at Department of Primary Industry and Regions. Together, they explore the realities of country life, the pressures that often go unseen and the strength rural communities find through connection. It’s an honest conversation about resilience, community-led support and the power of asking, “How are you really going?”Proudly brought to you by Catapult Wealth, providing financial and succession planning to help families and businesses move forward with clarity and confidence.If this conversation raises anything for you, support is available. Contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000.www.breakthroughfoundation.org.auwww.fatfarmers.comwww.pir.sa.gov.auwww.catapultwealth.com.au

In the inspiring third episode of Breakthrough’s A Safe Space podcast, hosts John Mannion and Leesa Scanlan are joined by Chris Bosley, Director of Sales and Marketing at Amorini and a proud member of Breakthrough’s Growth & Development Committee, and Mignon Furnell, co-founder of Kokoda Centurions.Through stories of resilience, courage and mateship, Chris and Mignon reflect on the physical and mental challenges of the Kokoda Track, the strength found in community and the importance of meaningful connection during life’s toughest moments.Together, they explore the power of taking one step at a time, supporting those around us and carrying the lessons of the trek long after the journey is over.If this conversation encourages you to check in with yourself or someone you care about, support is available:Lifeline: 13 11 14Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636This episode is proudly brought to you by Amorini, a partner and supporter of the Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation since 2021.2026 Kokoda Registrations are still open - click here to book now.

Episode 2 | Changing the Game: Speaking Openly About Suicide, Grief & HopeIn this powerful episode of A Safe Space, hosts John Mannion and Leesa Scanlan are joined by Dr Ian Zajac, Breakthrough Research Fellow in Men's Suicide Prevention, and James Thredgold, who shares his family's experience following the loss of his wife, Holly.Drawing on both lived experience and leading research, this candid and compassionate conversation explores the complex realities of suicide, grief and hope. Together, they discuss the emotional impact of losing someone to suicide, and the importance of meaningful support for those navigating loss.If this conversation raises concerns for you or someone you know, support is available. Lifeline: 13 11 14Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636Proudly sponsored by James Thredgold Jeweller. https://jamesthredgold.com.au/This episode is generously brought to you by James Thredgold Jewellers, Adelaide jewellers synonymous with craftsmanship, elegance, and South Australian artistry. Founded by James Thredgold, who is also our Breakthrough Ambassador, he has supported the organisation since its beginnings eight years ago. A man of many talents, James not only creates stunning jewellery, but also dedicates his time to advocating for change in mental health. Visit James Thredgold Jewellers, where timeless craftsmanship meets modern elegance, and every piece is made to be cherished for generations.

In our launch episode, we sit down with Andrew Hayes - better known as “Hayesy, ”to unpack the importance of men’s mental health, vulnerability, and speaking up. Inspired by attending the Breakthrough’s 2025 Men’s Meals & Mental Health Dinner at the Adelaide Oval, where more than 600 men came together to help break the stigma, Hayesy shares why creating space for honest conversations among men matters more than ever.As a presenter and broadcaster for 7NEWS Sports and Nova 919, Hayesy also opens up about the pressures that come with life in the public eye, from public speaking and media expectations to the importance of family and strong support networks. This episode is a powerful conversation about checking in on your mates, prioritising mental wellbeing, and changing the way men talk about mental health.