Grow - Program Resources and Discussions

Hosts Dave and Daryl catch up with community news, personal updates and highlights from the Grow movement. They announce the migration of 30 training podcasts to a dedicated Training & Resources channel, discuss the Yellow Book refresh (the proposed Orange Book rewrite), leadership meetings and the NSW leadership weekend, and encourage members to contribute and attend local leadership sessions. Also covered: newsletter updates, a call for more listeners in Victoria, and how to contact the team via the GROW website or [email protected].

Hosts Dave and Daryl cover the latest Grow community news — from Burwood Group awards and National Reconciliation Week activities to local fundraising and events. Dave also shares a history segment on co-founder Renee’s journey from addiction to helping start GROW, plus quick updates and shout-outs from around the network.

Hosts Dave and Daryl return for Episode 26 to catch up after a break, sharing stories about recent renovations, weather-related challenges and a tragic rescue that highlights the courage of volunteers. They discuss the vital role of volunteerism in GROW, strategies for rebuilding and promoting local groups, upcoming updates to the Yellow Book (potentially becoming an Orange Book), and resources like training channels and hospital orientation content. The episode ends with shout-outs to contributors and a teaser for next week’s history feature on Renee, an early member of the recovery movement.

Hosts Dave and Daryl share news from the Grow community, highlight the Stories of Hope channel and program training, and celebrate rising listener numbers. They also chat about personal updates (renovations and golf), upcoming organiser/recorder training, op‑shop volunteering, leadership literature reviews, and the upcoming "Illuminating Hope, Inclusion and Connection" conference. Contact details and a call for local Grow news and questions are provided at the end of the episode.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss episode highlights: a 50% increase in downloads, listeners in 27 countries, a new Program Training & Resources channel, and tips for starting and running both in-person and online Grow groups. They also share a historical look at why Grow chose the “Recovery” name, announce a presentation at the THEMHS mental health conference, and invite listener questions and feedback.

The episode covers Grow updates: a new Program Training & Resources podcast channel with uploaded episodes, an upcoming review of core readings (the "blue" and "green" books now on Kindle), Group organiser and Recorder training weekends, and a South Australian 'Red Faces' fundraiser supporting Youth Get Growing Groups. Listeners are invited to subscribe and send local Grow news via the Grow website or to [email protected].

Episode 22 of the 2D's Grow podcast covers recent community weekends, rising listenership around the world (notably Vietnam, the U.S. and Australia), and a detailed discussion on GROW hospital orientations. Hosts Dave and Daryl share a personal story about the impact of hospital visits, explain how orientations work, why staff relationships matter, and encourage organisers, recorders and listeners to get involved.  

Hosts Dave and Daryl share Grow news including a major residential rehab expansion in northern New South Wales, a planned podcast feed rename, and strong growth in listeners and downloads. The episode also features guest Ross talking about the value of community weekends, how camps build friendships and reduce isolation, and practical ways Grow supports recovery.

Hosts Dave and Daryl bring Episode 20 of the 2D's Grow podcast, sharing community updates, growing international listenership, and the importance of peer-written literature and leadership meetings in the Grow recovery program. They explain the origin of the name Grow, encourage members to submit papers and stay connected to local groups, and emphasise how sharing personal stories supports recovery and builds hope for others.

This episode explains GROW's literature process: how leaders write and present leadership papers at leadership meetings, how a scribe and branch literature team review submissions, and how standout papers are discussed and voted on at leadership days to become part of branch or national program literature. Listeners are encouraged to contribute ideas for personal development and mental health recovery; selected papers can become routine readings in groups or be published nationally, helping the GROW program evolve over time.

Episode 19 of the 2D's Grow podcast covers GROW's expanding global reach (welcome Brazil), the ongoing prison and transition peer-support groups, and recent local grant wins helping regional meetings. The hosts also explain the "Welcome to GROW" orientation sessions, discuss venue funding and donations, tease a history segment for the next episode, and remind listeners to stay connected over Easter. For questions or local news, contact davemaca at hotmail.com.

Episode 18 of the 2D's Grow Podcast with hosts Dave and Daryl: community updates, and a deep dive into GROW's history featuring Dr. Albert Lacey and the founding principles that shaped the organisation. Also covered: the expanded GROW Commitment and group method clarifications, a call for listener feedback, and contact details for sharing local Grow news.

Hosts Dave and Daryl welcome listeners to Episode 17 of the 2D's Grow podcast. The episode focuses on community observers in weekly Grow groups — what they are, etiquette, and proposed guidelines — plus an overview of the Growing Resilience short course and how it supports people during stressful times. They also recap Grow's outreach at the Mental Health Australia Expo and tease a history segment coming next week.

Hosts Dave and Daryl catch up in Episode 16 with updates on a recent podcast publishing delay, Grow’s accreditation audit success, and expanding international listeners. They discuss the Get Growing school program, fundraising through Red Faces, and the positive reception of the new Blue Book—especially expanded guidance on healthy relationships and codependency. The episode also spotlights staff growth in WA, welcomes new Queensland program worker Janelle, and previews upcoming segments like a Blue Book Focus topic and Dave’s Storytime History.

In Episode 15, hosts Dave and Daryl share Grow news and views: their growing international listenership, outreach from author Carol Mussey seeking a quote from former grower Emma Pierce (aka Pauline), and discoveries from early Grow history and traditions. They also celebrate new local and online groups, note recent National Program Team changes, and invite listeners to share historic documents or updates with the show.

Episode 14 of the 2D's Grow podcast covers recent listener growth and international reach, the hosts' goal to expand the audience, and upcoming community events like group elections and a Tasmanian community weekend. The episode also explores personal recovery—combining self-action, mutual help and medical support—plus a teaser about documenting Grow’s 70-year history and untold stories of founders like Con and Renee.

Dave and Daryl break down Episode 13 of the Grow podcast, walking listeners through the updated Blue Book: clearer, color-coded sections (Beginning, Progressing, Seasoned), reworked readings, and the addition of Grow traditions. They discuss how the program stages support group leadership, peer-led practice, and the chief operational principle. The hosts also mention upcoming events like the VicTAS Community Weekend, offer suggestions for group training, and preview a future episode on the history of Grow.

Hosts Dave and Daryl catch up on life, community news and the latest updates to the Grow Blue Book, including new readings on assertiveness, codependency, grief, letting go and consistency. They discuss improvements to online group access, leadership training, and invite listeners to get involved and share stories of recovery and hope.

Hosts Daryl and Dave revisit GROW’s core principles—the three basic convictions, four basic determinations, and three basic changes—showing how they link together as a practical foundation for recovery and personal growth. They explain using community support, steady habits, and reasoning over feelings to create small, repeatable tasks that build resilience, and encourage listeners to discuss and apply these ideas in their groups.

Hosts Dave and Daryl catch up after the holidays, sharing personal stories from family time, the beach, cricket and golf before turning to Grow matters. They discuss the updated Blue Book (beginning/progress/season sections, mental health and mindfulness), the February rollout plan, tips for reconnecting groups, upcoming volunteer role elections, and available resources — and invite listeners to contact Grow with questions.

Hosts Dave and Daryl share Grow news and updates in this festive episode: holiday group opening dates and online options, highlights from the 2024–25 member survey (including a 76% reduction in suicidal thoughts), the new Blue Book and updated group method card, and a big thank-you to volunteers and staff. They encourage members to stay connected over Christmas, explain where to find resources, and invite listeners to send local news or questions via the Grow website.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss recent community weekend activities like box car races and frisbee golf. They cover branch conferences, the role of branch program teams, and explain the two editions of the new Blue Book—one with faith-based alternative wording to preserve tradition. The episode also notes staff farewells, training resources, and guidance on group meetings over the Christmas period, with links for listeners to contact the hosts with questions or local news.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss updates to Grow’s literature and language, practical ways to tackle group problems, and upcoming episodes about working in correctional facilities. They also share a new personal testimony from Susie, encourage group leaders to use these conversations in meetings, and invite listener feedback and contact.

Welcome to Grow's program training and resource podcast, hosted by Daryl and Dave. In this episode, we dive into the concept of group problems and how to effectively address them within your Grow group. Daryl and Dave discuss the importance of bringing up issues during meetings, the role of the group method card, and the benefits of solving problems at the group level. Learn how to identify common group problems, such as starting meetings on time and maintaining confidentiality, and discover practical tasks and solutions to strengthen your group's dynamics. The hosts also emphasize the significance of 12-step work, social activities, and the feedback loop between group members and organizers. Whether you're a seasoned Grow leader or new to the role, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies to enhance the effectiveness and cohesion of your Grow group. Tune in and become better equipped to tackle any group challenges that arise.

Welcome to Grow's program training and resource podcast, hosted by Daryl and Dave. In this episode, they delve into the evolution of language within Grow's 12-step program, highlighting key changes and the rationale behind them. Learn about the history and updates to terms such as "inadequacy," "maladjustment," and "personal disorder," and how these reflect Grow's commitment to inclusivity and clarity. Daryl and Dave discuss the importance of the first step in the 12-step program, which involves admitting personal problems and the need for change. They explore the significance of personal responsibility, the challenges of adjusting to life, and how Grow's principles support mental health recovery and leadership development. Tune in to understand the vital role of language in shaping mental health support and how Grow's evolving terminology aims to meet the needs of its diverse membership. Join the conversation and gain insights into creating a supportive and effective Grow group.

Hosts Dave and Daryl share community updates from the GROW network, including a South Australian community weekend, rising podcast downloads, and new groups starting up. They reconnect with legend Helen Shaw and preview the re-release of Joanie’s Story — a powerful recovery tale of schizophrenia and the role of GROW in her healing. The episode also covers practical reminders about Christmas meeting arrangements, upcoming group elections and leadership transitions, the soon-to-be-published Blue Book, and where to find more GROW stories and contact information.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss recent Grow updates: a national strategy meeting with the program team, the new Blue Book and updated group method, a proposed review of the Yellow Book, highlights from the Grow New Zealand AGM, leadership transitions and a farewell to long-time member Teena, plus upcoming rollout plans and a special guest feature.

In episode five of the 2Ds Grow podcast, hosts Dave and Daryl discuss the launch of the revised and expanded Blue Book, share feedback and distribution updates, and highlight Mental Health Month events and local community activities across Australia and New Zealand. They talk about the importance of group connection, the program’s lived-experience wisdom, upcoming meetings and conferences, and how listeners can access and promote the podcast. Listeners are invited to send feedback, local grow news, or questions via the Grow website contact link or directly to Dave’s email.

Hosts Dave and Daryl share a brief weekly update on Grow: new Blue Book and training manual updates, group method housekeeping for online meetings, the importance of 12‑step outreach, and the launch of a new online Rainbow group for the LGBTQA+ community. They also mention an invite to the Grow New Zealand conference and remind listeners how to find groups or get in touch via the Grow website, [email protected] or [email protected].

Hosts Dave and Daryl catch up on recent activity for the Grow community: platform releases (now on Apple Podcasts and other apps), e‑groups via Zoom, short courses like Get Growing and Growing Resilience, and the upcoming Blue Book rollout. They also discuss planning organiser and recorder elections, explain what a ‘passenger’ means in Grow meetings, and share practical tips and resources for local groups and listeners.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss the latest Grow updates: the forthcoming Blue Book and updated group method rollout, digital releases like Growing to Recovery Vol. 2 on Kindle, and highlights from the annual member survey showing the program's strong impact. They also cover reconciliation planning, Territory pilot programs with Defence personnel, shorter Growing Resilience courses, and invite listener questions for future episodes.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss their recent community weekend in Coffs Harbour, updates on the Grow Blue Book and group methods, upcoming community events, and invite listeners to submit questions and local Grow news.

In this episode Daryl and Dave explain why progress reports are a vital part of GROW group meetings, showing how tracking small practical tasks and peer follow-up turns short-term coping into long-term growth. They outline leadership tips for encouraging meaningful reports, connecting tasks to the five foundations of maturity and vital needs, and how group affirmation and accountability build hope and sustained recovery.

This episode explains the GROW group problems section: why bringing issues to the group matters, how to discuss and resolve them together, and when to escalate to Organisers & Recorders (O&R) or program workers. Hosts Daryl and Dave give practical examples (late starts, confidentiality, venue, membership and leadership concerns), show how to create a practical task and part of the program to support change, and encourage leaders to use group-level problem solving to build stronger, healthier meetings.

Explore the essence of leadership within the GROW program. Join us for an engaging discussion on how leadership in GROW is more about function than position, and how self-activation through mutual help can inspire personal growth and recovery. Discover real-life examples of leadership in action. Learn how members of GROW groups share progress reports, chair meetings, and provide support through their own experiences, fostering an environment of mutual encouragement and inspiration. Delve into the concept of self-leadership. Understand how being consistent in attending meetings, even when it's challenging, can make a significant impact, proving leadership sometimes means simply showing up and sharing your journey with honesty and integrity.

Welcome to this episode of GROW's training and resource podcast, where hosts Darryl and Dave explore the essential topic of leadership transition within GROW groups. Drawing on years of experience, Dave shares insights into the importance of stepping into leadership roles and nurturing new leaders within the community. The episode delves into the significance of a dynamic leadership structure in GROW, emphasizing the policy of rotating the organizer role every two years. Darryl and Dave discuss the benefits of this practice, including promoting personal growth, avoiding stagnation, and fostering a supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the group's success. Listeners will gain valuable tips on how to identify potential leaders, encourage participation, and ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities. The discussion highlights the broader benefits of leadership roles, such as personal development and the opportunity to give back to the GROW community. Whether you're a current leader or aspiring to take on a leadership role, this episode offers practical advice and encouragement to help you and your group thrive. Tune in to learn how to pass the baton effectively and keep your GROW group vibrant and engaged.

Welcome to this insightful episode of GROW's program training and resource podcast, where hosts Darryl and Dave are joined by a special guest, Teena, a seasoned GROW program worker. This episode delves into the vital role of a group organiser in the mental health recovery community, offering a unique perspective from someone who has journeyed through the GROW program from participant to leader. Throughout the discussion, Teena shares her experiences and insights into the responsibilities and personal growth opportunities that come with being a GROW group organiser. The conversation covers the historical context of the role, its dual nature in fostering leadership and personal development, and the importance of mentorship within the group. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how group organisers contribute to the community, the qualities that make an effective leader, and the support available for those taking on this role. Join us as we explore the transformative power of leadership within the GROW program and the rewarding journey of helping others in their mental health recovery.

Welcome to the latest episode of GROW's program training and resource podcast. Join hosts Daryl and Dave as they delve into the intricacies of managing GROW groups, focusing on the often-confusing aspects of opening, closing, and recessing these groups. With a blend of in-person and online meetings, the discussion highlights the importance of collaborative decision-making and the role of leadership in maintaining effective GROW groups. Explore the dynamics of starting new groups, whether they arise from growing existing groups or through interest from external organizations. Daryl and Dave emphasize the significance of teamwork and community involvement in establishing successful new groups. They also address the challenges faced by program workers and the benefits of fostering leadership within the GROW community. Additionally, the episode covers the reasons and processes behind closing groups or putting them into recess, always aiming to maintain the quality and effectiveness of the GROW program. Tune in to learn about the strategies and principles that guide these decisions, ensuring that GROW continues to support mental health recovery and leadership development effectively.

Welcome to the latest episode of Grow's program training and resource podcast, hosted by Daryl and Dave. In this episode, we delve into the significance of leadership roles within the Grow community. As a largely volunteer-driven organization, Grow relies on members stepping up to various roles to keep the group dynamic and supportive. Daryl and Dave discuss the importance of roles such as the organizer and recorder, highlighting how these positions not only benefit the group but also significantly contribute to the personal development and mental health recovery of the individuals who take them on. They emphasize the concept of lived experience leadership, where members use their own recovery journey to help others. The hosts explore the challenges and rewards of stepping into a leadership role, supported by research that shows higher levels of well-being among those who participate actively. They also touch on the broader opportunities within Grow, such as regional and branch program teams, offering members a chance to contribute at different levels. Throughout the episode, Daryl and Dave share personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to encourage participation and support new leaders in their journey. Tune in to learn how taking on a role in Grow can be a transformative experience, both for the individual and the community. For more information on Grow Groups, mental health resources, or to make a donation, please visit grow.org.

Welcome to the latest episode of Grow's program training and resource podcast, hosted by Daryl and Dave. In this episode, they delve into the evolution of language within Grow's publications and how it reflects the organization's commitment to staying relevant and supportive in the ever-changing landscape of mental health recovery. Discover the journey of Grow's 12 steps, particularly the transformation of the first step from acknowledging severe mental illness to admitting personal disorder. Learn why these language changes are essential and how they help members better relate to and benefit from the program. Daryl and Dave provide insights into the importance of adapting terminology while preserving the core principles that have guided Grow for over 65 years. Whether you're a seasoned Grow leader or new to the community, this episode offers valuable perspectives on personal responsibility, growth, and the continuous improvement of support systems. Tune in to understand the significance of language evolution and how it impacts the effectiveness of mental health recovery programs.

Dave helps unpack where some of these guidelines and requirements came from in terms of lived experience from years of Grow meetings, mental health requirements and how to run effective groups. Particularly helpful to Group Organizers (but also for anyone), this episode takes a look behind some important elements and information for attending Grow group meetings. The new Booklet of the same name is available in your group (both online and in-person) and sets out guidelines, requirements rights and responsibilities of participating in grow's wondaful caring and sharing community.

A casual discussion on Outreach and networking externally with Sharon - Manager Grow Eastern Australia and Kate Manager NT.  Delving into what to do, things to say, what to know before you go and how to keep things simple, cheerful and based on what you know, namely, Grow Program principles!

A question that often gets asked in Grow groups with regard to our times of instant access information - "is there any need to learn Grow program by rote? (or by heart) is having access to it enough? Let's discuss the ins and outs. from our lived experience and our time in Grow group meetings.   

The Grow program is built on the lived experience and collective wisdom of many members and recoverers over many years. Consequently, the program is presented and shared with the emphasis on how 'we' made progress or how 'we' recovered, the implication being that if 'we' did, you can too.  In group we need to maintain this collective 'we' to allow all to participate and get help and support at their level whilst also being an integral part of the solutions for themselves and others.  - check it out.

This episode explores the different types of helping relationships identified by Grow and its members. Categorised simply as 'To' relationships, 'For' relationships and 'With' relationships. We discuss When the different types of helping is appropriate and relevant, (when it's not so helpful). Lastly, we discuss how-to aim for and develop the best type of help for ourselves and others in our peer to peer setting and friendships in Grow meetings.

Special guest Kate from the Northern Territory joins us today to discuss how Grow has often been privileged to employ recovered Grow members as staff. BUT what happens if a new staff member hasn't been involved in Grow before? Kate gives us her first hand perspective and surprising experience.

This episode discusses The Annual Training Weekend. Why it was introduced, How it has changed, Things to look for and plan, and how to adapt to Training Days if the Away Weekend format is not possible.

Our hosts discuss the curious idea of work associated with Grow's 12th Step. Does it contribute to the Caring and Sharing Community of Grow? Who can be involved? Is it for Program workers or Grow members? Is it even necessary or just an 'old idea'?

Today's episode discusses if there is any valid reason for Grow members to learn or commit some pieces of Grow program content to memory? Secondly we discuss the actual purpose of the Grow Group Method middle routine section of 'Sharing of Knowledge and Understanding' Might not be what you think?

This episode briefly outlines Grow's deep history, pre-dating the terms, of building a Mental Health Program based fully on the Co-design process. Additionally, ensuring that lived experience of mental illness was and still is, present at EVERY level of governance at Grow from the local weekly group to the National Board.