Heart On My Sleeve

What happens when the pain we carry lives deeper than words?In this episode, Michaela sits down with spiritual healer and somatic therapist Sammy Chessa to explore the journey from deep childhood trauma to emotional regulation, purpose, and healing. Sammy shares her raw story of growing up between two countries, experiencing abuse and instability, battling an eating disorder, and numbing pain through drugs and partying before a life-changing turning point at 18.Through yoga, somatic work, and years of spiritual and scientific study, Sammy began to understand how trauma is stored in the body and why healing often requires more than traditional talk therapy. Together they unpack the missing bridge between understanding trauma intellectually and actually releasing it physically.This conversation explores nervous system regulation, the science behind somatic healing, and what it really looks like to move from survival to a grounded, regulated life. It’s an honest reminder that healing isn’t about becoming perfect - it’s about learning how to come back to yourself.

In this deeply honest conversation, we hear from senior executive James Copsey working at the highest levels of corporate affairs - a space known for its relentless pace, complexity, and high expectations.But beneath the external success was a personal struggle he could no longer keep quiet. He shares the moment he realised drinking had become a problem, the decision to stop, and how telling the truth about his mental health became a turning point - not just in his personal life, but in how he shows up as a leader.This episode is a powerful reflection on what it means to drop the mask in a world that rewards control, and how choosing honesty can be the most strategic move of all.

In this Heart On My Sleeve episode, host Michaela Overman sits down with Paul Bennell, Manager of Fundraising & Relationships at children’s grief charity Feel the Magic. Paul shares what it was like losing his mum to suicide at age 10, being bullied for his loss, and growing up hiding both his grief and his queer identity.Together they explore “winter” as a season of grief, shame as a bodyguard and handbrake, and the coping strategies that look “high-functioning” on the outside but quietly erode us inside. Paul reflects on learning to separate his worth from his mum’s death, to have hard conversations instead of ostriching, and how Feel the Magic now helps hundreds of kids - and the 10-year-old version of himself - feel seen, safe and less alone.Content note: This episode includes discussion of suicide and childhood bereavement.

When pain is invisible, so is the understanding. In this raw and heartfelt conversation, Michaela Overman sits down with her best friend Emily. Emily’s pain didn’t show up on scans — until it did. One of just 20 people globally with both cyclical Cushing’s and acromegaly, she shares the years of “it’s all in your head,” the friendships stretched thin, the surgery that changed everything, and what healing really looks like after. This is a conversation about invisible illness, repair, and choosing hope — even when your nervous system isn’t there yet.

Leadership is often measured by targets and strategy - but the real story is human. In this Heart On My Sleeve episode, KPMG Australia’s National Managing Partner for People & Inclusion Dorothy Hisgrove opens up about the moments that reshaped her leadership: grief, self-reflection, and the courage to prioritise both results and wellbeing. We explore the gendered expectations on women leaders, how psychological safety unlocks high performance, and why joy and connection are not perks but infrastructure. Dorothy shares practical rituals to prevent burnout, the power of honest storytelling at work, and a simple rule for modern leadership: replace fixing with presence. If you’re stretched thin or leading teams through relentless change (hello, AI era), this conversation is a field guide to leading sustainably - without losing yourself.

Mitch sits down with lifelong friend Ash Thomsen for a raw, generous account of her son Bodhi’s birth - and the identity shift that followed. Ash shares how a gruelling 36-hour labour, medical complications, and postpartum anxiety/depression culminated in PTSD, and how she found her way back through support, medication, CBT, and especially EMDR - the trauma therapy that helped turn a terrifying event into a tolerable memory. They talk control vs surrender, the “rebirth” of the mother, partnership under pressure, and why community matters in the first year. This episode is for expectant parents, those recovering from birth trauma, and anyone reshaping themselves after a life-altering moment.Disclaimer: birth trauma, postpartum mental health, PTSD. Please listen at your own pace and reach out to supports if needed.

Interior designer Anna Carin joins host Michaela Overman for a tender, honest conversation about living with both beauty and pain at the same time. Raised on a Swedish farm and now three decades in Australia, Anna shares how a single incident of childhood sexual abuse (content note) shaped her relationship with shame, intimacy, control, and creativity —and how her lifelong “pursuit of beauty” became both refuge and expression. She opens up about therapy, hypnosis, her short film What Will Be, and practices that help her reconnect with her body — yoga, drumming, and somatic movement. Together they explore inner-child work, releasing self-blame, and the possibility of seeking pleasure safely after trauma. Anna leaves us with a powerful reminder: emotions soften when we stop adding stories and make space for them to settle.

In this deeply personal episode of Heart on My Sleeve, Luke Cook sits down with neuro-transformational coach and keynote speaker Nerissa Trindade to explore the heartbreak that doesn't come with a funeral but still requires mourning - separation and divorce from those we thought we'd be with forever.Both hosts share their parallel journeys through relationship breakdown, discussing the power of surrendering not as defeat, but as an invitation into possibility. Narissa opens up about hitting rock bottom and the transformative reframe of "letting go of control to embrace what could be," while Luke reflects on how past traumas shaped his relationship patterns.This raw, honest conversation offers hope to anyone facing major life transitions, reminding us that what's meant for us won't miss us, and sometimes the most courageous thing we can do is allow ourselves to float with the current instead of swimming against it.

This week on the Heart on My Sleeve podcast, Mitch Wallis sits down with NSW MP Adam Crouch for a raw and deeply moving conversation about love, loss, and resilience. After losing his wife Jill—an oncology nurse who cared for others while bravely fighting her own battle with cancer—Adam shares the realities of grief, the weight of supporting a partner through terminal illness, and the importance of community, vulnerability, and honest conversations. With courage and authenticity, Adam shows us what it means to keep living in honour of those we’ve loved and lost.

In this episode, Michaela Overman sits down with Gavin Fingelson - former professional baseball player, father of two, and CEO of Feel the Magic. Gavin shares his journey of navigating deep personal loss from a young age, the lessons baseball taught him about failure and resilience, and how vulnerability and communication became his anchors. From growing up in South Africa to representing Australia on the world stage, Gavin reflects on grief, fatherhood, and why giving back is the legacy that matters most.For additional resources or to donate visit: https://www.heartonmysleeve.org/https://www.feelthemagic.org.au/

When lawyer and mum Sarah Susak was told she had a rare - and deadly - cancer just a year after the birth of her “miracle baby,” her world cracked. In this uncompromising conversation, she takes us through surgery, grief, and the path of spiritual rebirth that followed. Sarah shares how Vedic meditation, ancestral wisdom, and radical acceptance helped her heal more than her body - they healed her identity. This episode is a testament to the deep resilience we discover when life demands it of us - and the power of becoming your own guru. If you've ever wondered what your “Yiru” - your inner wisdom - is, let Sarah’s journey guide you toward your own quiet strength.Web: https://www.sarahsusak.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarah_susak/?hl=en

In one of our most raw and powerful episodes to date, I sit down with my dear friend Zoe Marshall - TV presenter, author, manifester, podcast host, and mental health advocate - for an unfiltered conversation about her journey through Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).Together, we peel back the layers of what it's really like to live with intrusive thoughts, compulsions, and the mental gymnastics of emetophobia (fear of vomit) - a condition Zoe mistook for decades as just anxiety or a phobia.We explore:The moment Zoe realised her lifelong fear had a nameThe four-hour lunch that changed her lifeHer terrifying but transformative experience with Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapyThe fluid fusion between her identity and OCD—and how she's learning to separate the twoHow one word—maybe—has given her the freedom to live againThis conversation is deeply personal, sometimes confronting, often enlightening - and full of hope. Whether you live with OCD, love someone who does, or simply want to understand the inner world behind a smile, this episode is for you.Zoe’s vulnerability is a gift. Her story is a mirror. And her healing is a reminder that even in the darkest confusion, trust and surrender can light the way.👉 Connect with Zoe: @zoebmarshall | arise.com.au

Dani Lombard - PR powerhouse, unapologetic truth-teller, and lifelong “friend collector” - joins psychologist and HOMS clinical director Michaela Overman for her first-ever podcast appearance. But this isn’t about publicity. It’s about pulling the curtain back.In this raw and revealing conversation, Dani shares the story she’s never told publicly - her decades-long journey with anxiety, panic attacks, and the shame she carried behind a high-functioning, always-laughing persona. From a life-changing panic attack on a San Francisco street corner at 21, to quietly spiraling into agoraphobia while seemingly "thriving" in PR, Dani explores how she masked deep mental anguish behind success, sarcasm, and survival.Together, Michaela and Dani unpack what it really means to heal, why taking medication isn’t failure, and how two realities can coexist: being both okay and not okay. Vulnerable, funny, and disarmingly honest, this episode is a powerful reminder that mental health doesn't look one way—and that you're still worthy, even if you're not wearing a medal.

What happens when the mask you've worn your whole life finally falls off?In this moving episode of The Heart On My Sleeve Podcast, host Lainie Cassidy sits down with Aisling Smith – internationally recognised neurodiversity consultant, Stevie Award winner, and Trainer of the Year – for a raw, vulnerable conversation about living, parenting, and thriving as a late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD woman.From growing up in rural Ireland under emotional suppression, to unknowingly masking for decades in school and corporate life, Ashling shares how her son’s diagnosis led to her own awakening. Together, they unpack the deep grief, shame, and relief that can come with understanding your neurodivergent identity as an adult—and how those painful moments can transform into purpose.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt “too much,” who’s learned to blend in to survive, and who is ready to reclaim the power in being unapologetically themselves.⚠️ Content note: This episode touches on trauma, burnout, and emotional masking. Connect with Aisling: https://aisling-smith.com/Bio:Aisling Smith is a globally recognised Neurodiversity Trainer of the Year, 40 Under 40 Business Elite Award Honouree and Silver Stevie Award winner for Social Change in Disability. A late-diagnosed autistic woman with ADHD, Aisling leverages her lived experience and over a decade of professional expertise to empower neurodivergent individuals and transform workplaces worldwide.As an international speaker, best-selling author, and highly sought-after consultant, Aisling has inspired thousands with her innovative approach to neuro-inclusion. She partners with global organisations to implement sustainable neuro-inclusive strategies, rewrite policies, and create thriving, diverse workplaces. Her 7-pillar diversity and inclusion training program has become a benchmark for organisations aiming to foster inclusive environments and unlock the full potential of their teams.Aisling’s expertise is deeply rooted in her personal journey. As the mother of a neurodivergent child, she is driven to normalise and celebrate neurodiversity in all aspects of life. Her work transcends professional boundaries, as she also founded The New to Neurodiversity Club, a transformative community for late-diagnosed professional women with autism and ADHD. This platform offers tailored resources, coaching, and empowerment to help women embrace their strengths and create fulfilling lives.With a background spanning 15+ years in psychology, event production, advertising, and business, Aisling combines her professional and entrepreneurial experience with ground-breaking psychological and neuroscience techniques. She is known for delivering engaging, actionable presentations that challenge traditional thinking and empower audiences to create workplaces where neurodivergent employees excel.Aisling’s accolades include:• Neurodiversity Trainer of the Year 2024• 40 under 40 Business Elite 2024• Silver Stevie Award for Social Change in Disability 2024• MBN Awards: New Business of the Year 2022• IACC: Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist 2022• Most Empowering Corporate Trainer 2023Aisling’s dedication to breaking biases around neurodiversity and promoting workplace inclusion has positioned her as a trailblazer in her field.Her mission is clear: to impact over a million lives by making neurodiversity a celebrated and normalised aspect of human diversity worldwide. Aisling Smith is the speaker and trainer your organisation needs to foster understanding, enhance collaboration, and drive innovation through neuro-inclusion.

What happens when your body breaks... but it's your soul that needs healing?In this raw and powerful conversation, Tess Brouwer shares the story behind her life-altering spinal cord injury that forced her to stop running from pain, from grief, from herself. Tess, a mental fitness trainer and co-founder of Awake Academy, opens up about the unspoken traumas she buried for decades - from childhood instability to losing her teenage soulmate to suicide - and how her injury became a portal into profound emotional healing.Together with host Mitch Wallis, Tess explores why feeling is more important than fixing, how shame manifests in the body, and what it takes to truly let go of pain. With practical tools, embodied wisdom, and brutal honesty, this episode is a guide for anyone ready to stop pretending they’re okay—and start healing for real.If you've ever felt broken, numb, anxious, or like you’re holding it all together just to get through the day—this conversation might be the permission slip you didn’t know you needed.Find Tess online athttps://www.instagram.com/tesscbrouwer/Link to her book:https://www.penguin.com.au/books/awake-academy-9781761345869Link to her business:https://www.instagram.com/awake_academy/

At 17 weeks pregnant with triplets, Ashleigh Conwell’s life changed forever when her husband Matt passed away suddenly during the height of the pandemic. In this raw and profoundly moving conversation with host Luke Cook, Ashleigh opens up about the identity shift that followed, the brutal reality of solo parenting through grief, and the quiet resilience it takes to keep showing up.From collapsing on the pavement in shock to rising each day with intention, Ashleigh's story is not just one of tragedy - it’s a masterclass in courage. She speaks about the power of saying “I’m not okay,” the weight of new labels like “widow,” and how she's transforming her pain into purpose through her work with Yellow Falcon.This episode is for anyone navigating the complexity of grief, identity, or starting over - and a testament to the fact that healing doesn't mean forgetting... it means carrying forward with love.Find Ash online: @ashleigh.conwell and @yellow.falcon

If you’ve ever struggled to slow down, to feel proud, or to say “I’m enough,” this episode is a must-listen.We often see the hustle. The 3am alarms. The shredded physique. The front covers and product launches. But what we rarely see is the cost behind the curtain. In this raw and revealing episode, Heart On My Sleeve Clinical Director Michaela Overman sits down with celebrity trainer and gym owner Jono Castano to explore the emotional weight that success can carry.From growing up in a small Colombian town and navigating childhood bullying in Australia, to battling imposter syndrome at the peak of his career - Jono opens up like never before. He shares the silent toll of loneliness, the inner critic shaped by childhood wounds, and how the pressure to always be “on” led him to a breaking point.This conversation is about what happens when achievement stops feeling like enough. It’s about learning to connect with your inner world, rebuilding after heartbreak, and finally believing you are worthy—not for what you’ve done, but for who you are.

In episode 53, Mitch Wallis speaks to Dr Tony Mastroianni, a psychiatrist with over 30 years' experience in clinical practice. Tony specialises in the treatment of ADHD and schizophrenia, and is the founder of the Focalength Method™, a holistic approach to treatment that takes a 360 view of a person in order to help them get well, and stay well. This episode covers: Moving medicine away from diagnosis towards a holistic model of care Why we need to look outside of the mind when treating mental illness What is the Focalength Method™ and how we can all apply the principals His work specialising in ADHD and the elements that are often-overlooked Modern day mental illnesses - where we've gone wrong with treatment A deep dive into the impact of our core beliefs and attachment styles Stay Connected: www.focalength.com.au www.instagram/mitch.wallis

In episode 52, Mitch Wallis speaks to Maddy MacRae, a comedy creator who exploded onto the scene during lockdown with her hilarious and relatable skits about sex, dating and everything in-between. We go deep and explore previously untouched topics such as her mental health journey, her sexuality and the reality of life online. This episode covers: rising quickly to online success but struggling internally her experience with therapy and navigating severe anxiety an obsessive concern that kept her paralysed on content creation navigating the rollercoaster of going viral online and chasing validation how to audit your belief system, build thick skin and stop people pleasing exploring sexuality, attachment style and enmeshment in her relationships Stay connected: www.instagram.com/maddy_macrae_ www.tiktok.com/@maddy_macrae_ www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: [email protected]

In episode 51, Mitch Wallis speaks to Gaj, a highly sought-after performance coach recognized for his effective leadership training techniques and passion for helping clients reach higher potential. For over 20 years, Gaj has worked with leading organizations and individuals to enhance productivity, maximize performance, and accelerate growth. As a Registered psychologist, Gaj leans on his psychology training to deliver the most effective evidence-based solutions to his clients that are proven to enhance potential and performance. This episode covers: the unique skill that all high performers possess the biggest limiting beliefs that stop people succeeding how to move past defeat and into true resilience #1 thing you're doing wrong if you want to get promoted why all high performers are a little bit f*cked up Stay connected: https://kompassconsultancy.com/www.instagram.com/gajravichandra www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: [email protected] Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8fRx_64RQR4

Sonny Jane is a multi-neurodivergent, queer, and disabled public speaker, advocate, and author with a strong social media presence. Sonny was diagnosed as a child and grew up only hearing a deficit narrative about their neurodivergence. Since then, they have gone on to build an audience of over 100,000 people online, have written ‘The Neurodivergent Friendly Workbook of DBT Skills’, and works with organisations all over Australia to help change the narrative around neurodivergence. Sonny is a brilliant educator and all-round wonderful human. The episode covers... Sonny's journey to self and being exposed to psychiatric care as young as 4 the difference between mental health disorders and neurodivergence breaking down ADHD, autism, and mental illness - are labels helpful or harmful? why suddenly everybody seems to be getting a late ADHD diagnosis the most powerful skill you can harness when you don't understand or agree You can connect with Sonny here:www.instagram.com/livedexperienceeducator www.livedexperienceeducator.com

This episode comes with a trigger warning of domestic violence. In episode 49, Mitch Wallis speaks to Jacinta Dubojski who is the creator and founder of Just Another GIRL, an initiative designed to inspire and empower students by arming them with the tools to navigate difficult situations; such as bullying, and domestic violence, both of which are experiences that she's survived. Jacinta is a big believer in sharing stories to connect and help others, something I’m equally passionate about so I'm honoured to be able to bring you her story of resilience.  This episode covers: Her traumatic experience at school confronting her childhood bully 15 years later The psychological entrapment of an emotionally and physically abusive relationship How to rebuild mental fortitude when you've experienced repeated hardship Receiving psychiatric care at her most vulnerable and the shocking treatment from staff How to get out of victim mindset and forgive yourself for all you put up with to survive Her best tools to shift self-esteem and internal narratives from unworthy to deserving Stay connected: www.instagram.com/just.anothergirl_www.justanothergirlproject.com.au www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yMis1WuMPQA

In episode 48, Mitch Wallis speaks to Antoinette, a multi-award-winning journalist, author, broadcaster, columnist, TEDx speaker, and mental health ambassador with a bold and authentic approach to life... This episode covers: Her experience with peri and post-natal depression Her opinion on mental illness and the shame that surrounds new mothers Navigating journalism and the impact of second-hand trauma How to protect our own mental health when we're in a 24/7 vortex of bad news stories Her take on whether women have to sacrifice like-ability for a successful career Stay connected: www.instagram.com/antoinette_lattouf www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0CCsonotan8

In episode 47, Mitch Wallis speaks to Greg Bird, a proud Anaiwan Man, born and raised in country New South Wales. He was a professional Rugby League player for an impressive 18 years, hanging up his boots in 2019 to move up to the Gold Coast and prioritise time with his wife and kids. This episode dives deep into untold stories of struggle both on and off the pitch. this episode covers: his unspoken story of struggle, stigma and feeling like a burden. the impact of football on his mental health, from extreme highs to unmanageable lows. the media's portrayal and what really went on behind closed doors. anger on the field and run-ins with the police - from bad boy to family man. injury, pain, addiction and grieving the loss of his father. becoming a father and navigating his own identity change. Stay connected: www.instagram.com/birdman_13 www.projectnetzero.com.au www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HkZJxdLJB04

In episode 46, Mitch Wallis speaks to founder of EQ Minds and recovering perfectionist, Chelsea Pottenger, who shares how her experience with mental illness fuelled her passion for helping busy minds reset and recharge so they can successfully balance high performance and great mental wellbeing. If you find yourself dancing around the edges of burnout more often than not, this ep is for you. This episode covers: how 2 traumatic brain injuries triggered her mental health issues the single greatest mindset shift to help reduce perfectionism how to let go of ego to better serve your goals and wellbeing what factors in life really drive people to burn out, and why they might not be what you think the clinical difference between exhaustion and burnout how to integrate achievable mental and physical resets across the year taboo topics and non-conventional ways to support your mental health Stay connected: www.instagram.com/chelseapottengerofficial www.eqminds.com www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: [email protected] Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5IFdF5eIS5I

Matt Purcell was born in a small town in South Korea to a young mother who was unable to raise him. This sparked an incredible work drive in Matt who has since founded KYU media, an award-winning creative agency, and Social Kung Fu, Australia’s number 1 verbal self-defence and confidence training for students. Matt shares wisdom from his own personal journey, how to overcome hardship, find purpose and have an impact. This episode covers: where to begin with combatting insecurities how he built his own self-worth from the ground up the #1 best quality in a personal brand the framework that will set your brand up for success his unique gifts: verbal sparring and pattern recognition the proven formula for combatting bullying Connect with Matt: www.instagram.com/mattpurcellofficial Work with Matt: www.socialkungfu.com.au www.kyumedia.com

In Episode 44, Mitch Wallis speaks to Dr. Cody, an American-born, Australian Chiropractor with over 10 years of experience, who has clicked, popped, and cracked his way into over 2 million TikTok followers. He's passionate about education and the prevention of disease so that people can achieve complete wellness.  This episode covers: his untold story and ongoing battle with mental health the biggest misconceptions about chiropractic science how trauma and mental-ill health shows up in our physical body the mind-body connection: 5 best ways to keep your nervous system healthy the body keeps the score - how to stimulate the vagus nerve to aid healing expanding chiropractic treatment and support for Neurodivergent patients Book an appointment with Dr Cody: https://www.combinedclinics.com.au/ Stay connected: www.instagram.com/drcody_dc www.tiktok.com/@drcody_dc www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: [email protected] Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/drregtspSsE

In episode 43, Mitch Wallis speaks to Milly. From lifestyle journalism in Silicon Valley to youth mental health charity founder, Milly Bannister is a well-known face in the online world of wellbeing. We discuss everything from the trivial use of mental health language on social media to the power of educational peer support programs in schools. This episode covers: Milly's personal journey with mental health and maintaining authenticity in an online world Addressing the generational gaps in our willingness to talk about mental health Attention, misinformation or a cry for help? Why younger generations trivialise mental health language Is social media helping or hurting our knowledge about mental health? Founding ALLKND with the mission to provide young people with this missing mental health literacy Check-out ALLKND: www.allknd.org Stay connected: www.millybannister.com www.instagram.com/millyrosebannister www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: [email protected]

In episode 41, Mitch Wallis speaks to his personal therapist. Lewin completed six years of tertiary education in psychology and counselling, learning from leaders in the fields of relational, mindful, and somatic psychotherapy. Lewin has been my personal therapist for over 6 years and has seen me at my lowest points. This episode explores all of your burning questions about therapy and sheds some light on the answers that no therapist has been bold enough to tackle. This episode covers: supporting Mitch through his darkest moments the biggest misconception about therapy can we truly heal without professional support the unspoken grief when you lose a therapist the reality of why therapists become therapists his own childhood trauma and story of shame If you'd like to connect with Lewin for professional support, you can do so here: www.harbourtherapyclinic.com.au/practitioners/lewin-de-la-motte Stay connected: www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: [email protected]

Sam Hann is a popular Sydney yoga teacher who's spent over 6 years sharing his knowledge in studios and through his YouTube channel. In 2021, he lost his brother, Blake and his world has never been the same. In this episode, we cover: Grief - the hard, messy and raw reality of losing a loved one that people don't speak about. The moment he heard the news and how that impacted his life and family as he knew it. The 5 stages of grief - why it's not that simple and the pain it doesn't capture. The #1 best way to support someone through loss - that we're probably all getting wrong. Making a promise to go to therapy and why he's intent on role-modelling vulnerability to help other men who might be struggling in silence. How yoga and the loss of his brother helped him face his fear of failure and letting people down. Re-building through grief and the reality of integrating and living with trauma and trying to find peace. You can connect with Sam here: www.instagram.com/samhannyoga/ You can practice yoga with Sam here:: In-person at www.blazeyoga.com.au and www.rarestudiosau.com or free, online at: www.youtube.com/@SamHannYoga

In episode 39, Mitch Wallis speaks to Alice Child, a Somatic Sexologist, Sex Counsellor and Sex Coach who believes everyone deserves a happy, healthy, safe and fulfilled sex life. Alice has a passion for vulnerable conversations, confronting taboos, and creating inclusive spaces free of judgment. This episode covers: Why shame surrounds sex and how we can start to shift our perspective The most common concerns that people see a sex therapist for Play, initiation, domination, submission, consent and making safety sexy Why self-pleasure is so important for our physical and mental health How our mental health plays such an intricate role in our pleasure experience Monogamy, polyamory and everything in-between - exploring our edge What are sexual kinks and fetishes? The psychology behind it Female pleasure - understanding why we need to get more cliterate (clit-literate) Stay connected: www.alicechild.com.au www.instagram.com/alicechildofficial www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: [email protected]

In episode 48, Mitch Wallis speaks to Cooper Chapman, an ex-pro surfer who founded The Good Human Factory after mental illness and suicide impacted the lives of his loved ones. In this episode, we cover: The story that triggered the Good Human Factory The fear that drove his curiosity to find his life's purpose Managing comparative suffering and the 3 key values that he lives by The underrated importance of practicing gratitude The unusual and unconventional path to working in mental health How his role as a supporter allowed him to relate to people Stay connected: https://www.instagram.com/cooperchapman https://www.thegoodhumanfactory.com www.instagram.com/mitch.wallis Have feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on the show? Get in touch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GQikEr106dk

Mitch Wallis speaks to Joey Daymond, who has already proved himself to be a star in the world of New Zealand comedy, but outside of comedy and acting, Joe is also the founder of West Park, a youth-led, indigenous-focused company. He’s hilarious, hard-working, and genuine in all that he does. In this episode we cover:his relationship with family: from suffering to freedomfacing darkness and moving towards the hard stuffculture, racism and establishing his own identitybuilding a career in comedy; the secret sauce to successsupporting indigenous youth and his creative missionStay connected:www.instagram.com/joe.daymondwww.instagram.com/mitch.wallis

Mitch Wallis speaks to Leah Simmons, the founder of the online phenomenon, KAAIAA, the physical workout for your mental health. In this episode, we explore everything from founding a successful business to unconventional parenting styles.This episode covers:Finding a niche in the wellness industry, building a successful online brand, and the meaning behind the name KAAIAA.Learning to flex entrepreneurial skills as a creative and the number one skill she's found success in as a founder.Getting comfortable with pain and why being an 'empath' can sometimes be a downfall.Her real thoughts on the wellness industry and learning to let go of how people perceive you.Motherhood, parenting and navigating a 'non-conventional' family unit.Getting comfortable with who you are and the importance of having a "try it all" motto.Curious questioning of societal labels and breaking norms to find happiness.Stay connected:www.instagram.com/iamleahsimmonswww.instagram.com/thisiskaaiaawww.kaaiaa.comwww.instagram.com/mitch.wallis

In episode 35, Mitch Wallis speaks to Jad Nehmetallah, a beloved TV Personality on the Nation’s favourite Gogglebox Australia. He is an entrepreneur, restauranteur, and most importantly one of his best friends.In this episode we explore:Stigma affecting help seeking for mental health in ethnic communitiesDifferent manifestations of anxiety and the impact of feeling out of alignment with your purposeThe journey of being raised as by immigrant parents from a war-torn country and how it's shaped his view of the worldThe definition of "healthy masculinity" and how it's evolved over timeAttachment styles and their impact on romantic relationshipsJad's promise to try something for his mental health that he's never done before...Stay connected:www.instagram.com/jadfunkwww.miscparramatta.com.auwww.instagram.com/mitch.wallis

Mitch Wallis speaks to Ben Handsaker, one of the most familiar faces in the personal training industry in Australia, with a reputation for being infectiously happy all the time. Yet, as we know in most cases like these, that's not the full story...In this episode we explore:How to turn the pain of addiction into a superpowerHow to create an unbreakable mindsetHow to find your why in moments of darknessHow to endure setbacks and turn them into purpose and meaningHow to make friends with your destructive alter egoStay connected:www.instagram.com/abstackerwww.abstacker.comwww.instagram.com/mitch.wallisHave feedback to share, questions you want answered or guests you want to see on theshow? Get in touch: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wGOG98FBzFM

A masterclass in how individuals & workplaces can identify, support and prevent domestic violence with leading expert Dannielle Miller. 

This episode's guest is Sarah Wilson - author of "I Quit Sugar", journalist, TV host, environmental activist. Sarah lives with Bipolar disorder, OCD and Hashimoto's disease.We cover: How do you know when anxiety is your super power Her George Costanza moment of doing the opposite and how it saved her life The importance of "the wrestle" - how we aren't focussing on resilience enough in our approach to mental health We unpack what it means to "do anxiety once" Why Sarah trusts anxious people more than non-anxious people 2 tools she uses to reduce her anxiety The 1 thing she let go of and the 1 thing she gained that changed her life Mitch shared what he believes is the first step in everyone's journey to living with anxiety What it was like getting her first mental ill health diagnosis at age 12 Living with Bipolar including full manic episodes, OCD and Hashimoto's disease (autoimmune issue that causes thyroid dysfunction) Described her ultimate breakdown and what that looked - including the moment where she said "I am ready to go" Don’t wait until the dark night of the soul before you make a change - you don’t need to have a dramatic moment The benefits of minimalism and being able to carry your whole life in a single bag

About Mitch's Mum Grew up working class, raised Mitch as a single mother in his early years Fought her way into a better life for both of them Had her second child when Mitch was 15 Gina is now a successful sales manager at a large technology company "She is the best person ever" MitchIn this episode we cover: Independence vs. safety - how do we navigate taking care of a child but empowering autonomy - especially when a mental health issue is present in the child #1 thing she did that helped me during that time Early warning signs and cues that she wished she saw in me The #1 warning sign she wished she saw earlier that she believes is an early indicator to anxiety The #1 game to play with your child to help counter anxious thoughts 2 tips to balance being firm and being compassionate How to balance being a friend vs. being a parent - how to get that right Teenage angst vs. something more serious - the answer to knowing if it's clinical Post-natal depression twice - what it felt like for her without even knowing she had it and the reality of feeling trapped A discussion on whether or not it's good to talk to children about big questions like values and what you believe in from an early age Talking to her not wanting to let her down by telling her I wasn’t ok The benefits of writing a life narrative and sitting down with your parents to talk it through - re-write your story through their story To medicate or not to medicate your child when facing a mental health issue (*seek medical advice) What is the end goal of mental healthBook Mitch to speak at your workplace www.mitchwallis.com 

In this episode:- Parenting pitfalls and how to avoid passing on your insecurities to your children- The science of presence and how it can be used to overcome trauma- How being "real" is not just an ethical choice, but a psychological benefitDr Dan SiegelDaniel J. Siegel received his medical degree from Harvard University and completed his postgraduate medical education at UCLA with training in pediatrics and child, adolescent and adult psychiatry.  He served as a National Institute of Mental Health Research Fellow at UCLA, studying family interactions with an emphasis on how attachment experiences influence emotions, behavior, autobiographical memory and narrative. Dr. Siegel is a clinical professor of psychiatry at the UCLA School of Medicine and the founding co-director of the Mindful Awareness Research Center at UCLA. An award-winning educator, he is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and recipient of several honorary fellowships. Dr. Siegel is also the Executive Director of the Mindsight Institute, an educational organization, which offers online learning and in-person seminars that focus on how the development of mindsight in individuals, families and communities can be enhanced by examining the interface of human relationships and basic biological processes. His psychotherapy practice includes children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. He serves as the Medical Director of the LifeSpan Learning Institute and on the Advisory Board of the Blue School in New York City, which has built its curriculum around Dr. Siegel’s Mindsight approach.

In this episode: A world leading expert on attachment psychology gives us a masterclass in how relationships affect our brain A Harvard psychologist perspective on why mental health is so bad in our modern world We disclose the #1 thing that can affect your mental health The 5 attributes of giving secure attachment to others those we care about How to overcome conflict and ruptures in relationships through boundaries How we can become more mature in our ow=n emotional regulation An exploration of child development and the different relational maps as we grow up Top psychological traits of high performers and how to cultivate peak states Neuroscience insights into attention and how it relates to ADHD How parents can “wander out loud” about their kids to help them learn about their mind The subtle nuances of meditation to make sure it “works”About Dr Daniel P Brown Dr. Brown is an Associate Clinical Professor in Psychology at Harvard Medical School. He has served on the Harvard Medical School faculty for 37 years. He is the senior author of a major textbook on the treatment of attachment disorders in adults, D Brown & D Elliott, Attachment Disturbances in Adults. He has served as an expert witness in the courts in over two hundred lawsuits relating to psychological damages from trauma and abuse; His work as an expert witness or consultant on trauma and memory has included testimony before of International War Crimes Tribunal. He has studied under leading eastern meditation teachers (even meditation originators i.e. people who developed the actual practice itself) and has spent 46 years translating meditation texts from Tibetan and Sanskrit into English. He has the only scientific study identifying the neurocircuitry of the meditative experience of awakened mind. Dr. Brown’s background in both Western psychology and Eastern meditation traditions offers a unique integration of the contemporary Western research on peak performance and positive psychology and the classical Buddhist meditation lineage traditions.

In this episode:- what it was like to grow up having a worldwide spiritual guru as a parent- Mallika shares incredibly beautiful insights around the power of gratitude and what setting an intent really means (beyond just what we may have read in books like The Secret).- We discuss the usually messy and sometimes dark journey of figuring out who we really are and what we really want- Mallika gives some invaluable advice and perspectives on parenting, and of course, meditation.About Mallika ChopraMallika Chopra is one of the most prolific meditation teachers in the world. She has spoken at TedXSan Diego and TedXBerkeley, Ideacity, Business Innovation Factory, Wisdom 2.0, Women’s Conferences around the United States, and the Parliament of World Religions. She has been featured in Time Magazine’s Special Issue on Mindfulness, as well as Women’s Health, Oprah.com, Mind Body Green, and Huffington Post. She has worked with companies such as Coca Cola, Disney, LinkedIn and Google. Mallika has published several books – including her most recent project called 'Just Breathe: Meditation, Mindfulness, Movement and More' where she empowers 8-12 year old kids to learn how to deal with stress, sleep better, build self-confidence, and manage the anxiety so many of them face today. She also wrote the book 'Living With Intent: My Somewhat Messy Journey to Purpose, Peace and Joy'. A lot of people would be familiar with her father Deepak Chopra – a.k.a. male Oprah Winfrey. He is essentially the face of self-help globally and a large reason why meditation is mainstream in today’s Western world.

Today's guest is Margo Lydon. In this episode we cover: The most recent insights relating to corporate mental health in Australia from the country's largest wellbeing survey An overview of the 5 core domains of a thriving workplace What some organisations aren't doing well to support their staff (and what they could be doing more right) How COVID has impacted Australian workers (with a surprising finding) What leaders can do to serve their team more effectivelyAbout Margo LydonMargo has been working in mental health and suicide prevention for 20 years. She is the CEO of SuperFriend - one of Australia's leading Workplace Mental Health Organisations. Margo holds a Master of Science, Positive Organization Development and Change and a Bachelor of Business Degree (Marketing). She was a finalist in the 2019 Telstra Business Women’s Awards (Victoria) in the “For Purpose and Social Enterprise” category.

In this episode we cover:- A real story from a successful black man who has experienced racism his whole life to humanise the reality of racism in the 21st century- The difference between white privilege & racism- What we can do to help lift up our black brothers & sisters and do small acts to push society forward- How the Black Lives Matter Movement extends beyond an issue of police brutality- An exploration of the incarceration issue and the layers that build up to perpetuate or perception a stigma over time- The “child state” of trauma that can last into adulthood and how parenting can have such a big impact on thisThis episode’s guest is Pervis Taylor, III, M.A. Pervis is an award-winning celebrity life coach, speaker and author of “Pervis Principles” Volumes 1&2 and “Single Man, Married Man”. As a result of his own trauma, Pervis has dedicated his life to the betterment of one's mental and emotional growth. Through his honing methods, he continues to transform the lives of his extensive client roster that reaches both celebrities, executives, organisations and most importantly inner city youth by pinpointing their needs and goals. Pervis has his Bachelors in marketing from University of Miami and his Masters in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University.

Meet Liz, a Tax Partner at PWC in Texas who gets very real about her experiences with anxiety, clinical depression, medication and OCD. Liz was naturally good at everything she turned her hand to, including mastering the art of living an inauthentic life to please others. Her goal was to be seen and liked. And she was, but it was for the person she thought they wanted her to be, so she had to keep her “true” thoughts and compulsions hidden. She openly talks about her relationship with external validation and how it’s the strongest drug we can come across, as we permanently chase that high to feel loved more than anything else. True to form, Liz is now a leader in driving awareness of mental ill health, particularly in the corporate space.Topics covered: The danger of masking our insecurities with relentless positivity Liz’s breakthrough moment of knowing how to combat her obsessive thoughts and impulsive behaviour How external validation is limitless and has no rock bottomThis is the link to the “demon duck of doom” that Liz mentioned at the end - https://cutt.ly/vlF6tQCLiz’s blog - https://seriouslyjerkbrain.com/2020/01/08/beautiful-mind-jerky-brain/

Matt became paraplegic after severing his spine during an attempt to end his life. Months and years of physical and mental rehabilitation have seen him completely transform his mindset. Today, Matt is a motivational speaker and mindset coach, particularly influential among his generation, and is on an incredible comeback to walk again.Topics covered: The existential curiosity he had at an early age, which saw him carve out a double life. How he has found purpose and meaning since attempting to take his life. His refusal to accept medical predictions that he’d never walk again. The mindfulness practices he utilizes every day to ensure his ongoing wellbeing.

Jake grew up with a single mum, and even as a child, he took on the role of “the man’ in the house. When his stepdad came along, things were ok for a while, but later Jake would have to endure the fear and anger of living with an unstable parent figure. Jake escaped to pursue his own life of travel and adventure and became qualified as a chef. Later, in his mid-twenties, when he was just starting to thrive in his new career as a personal trainer, a tragic motorcycle accident nearly claimed his life. Toward the end of his months of recovery, he was told he had throat cancer.Mitch and Jake talk openly about how he survived through it all and how he is continually challenging himself to improve and pursue physical and mental health.Topics covered: Feeling unsafe at home in a household where there is drugs and violence A sense of masculinity. How we grasp at it, lean into it and adapt to threats to it. Surviving a motorcycle accident, which left him in recovery for months Receiving a cancer diagnosis while still in rehabilitation from the accidentThe music Jake mentions at the end is by @lukasmac and has been a guiding light for his recovery.

After constantly yearning for his father’s love, acceptance and approval, which never came, Sean had a longing to be seen and heard. He fought his way through a devastating revelation in childhood, and challenging teenage years to build a life worth living. Toward the end of this chat, Mitch and Sean share a deep connection and vulnerable exchange which enables Sean to open up even further and let the love in and the light shine even further out of him.Topics covered: We already matter. “Success” doesn’t validate our humanity and value. Allocating our self-worth is an inside job. The humiliation of being unwanted by a parent and alienated by your family. How being homeless during his final year of high school drove Sean to imagine that “success” would help him escape poverty. No matter how polarized our demographics, anyone can show you life-changing kindness.

Mitch Wallis speaks to Tofe Evans who talks about running ultramarathons to cope with his mental health.This episode covers:Fighting through adversity fuelled by drugs & alcohol abuse, driven by shame, victimisation, and identity crises.How a lust for external validation infected every area of his life, and left Tofe on the brink of suicide. Being present to keep us feeling enough and worthy of love.The identity crisis after pulling out 280km into a 345km ultramarathon across Scotland.Episode support notes:Tofe’s book is called “Everyone Has a Plan Until Sh!t Hits the Fan” available on Amazon.

Mitch Wallis speaks to Josh Wiggins, Nutritionist, Mentor & Mental Performance Coach.Topics covered:The damaging effect of presenting a façade of coping: how being strong for other people removes authentic connection and can exacerbate mental ill health.How teenagers searching for a sense of agency over their body can fall into unhealthy habits and belief systems.How receiving a diagnosis can bring a sense of clarity and freedom to move on.The value of a mentor – how letting just one person we respect and admire guide us can be a significant turning point in our wellbeing.