Mental Health Matters

In this episode of Mental Health Matters, we sit down with Drew Fletcher — a bloke who proves that nothing is impossible.From being diagnosed with mild cerebral palsy as a kid, to facing years of bullying through school, Drew opens up about the moments that nearly broke him… and the mindset that built him back stronger.This is a story about resilience, perspective, and the power of the right people in your corner. From struggling just to show up, to running half marathons and becoming a pillar in his community, Drew’s journey is one that will stick with you.We talk about:The real impact of bullying and why it’s still not taken seriously enoughHow a support network can change everythingRewiring your mindset when negative thoughts creep inWhy “nothing is impossible” isn’t just a saying — it’s a way of lifeIf you’ve ever felt like giving up, this episode is for you.Because sometimes… the smallest steps lead to the biggest transformations.

This one’s heavy… but it’s one you need to hear.In Season 2, Episode 2 of Mental Health Matters, Strawny and Benny sit down with a very special guest — Jesse McGarrity. A man whose story is as raw as it gets.From a childhood filled with trauma, violence, and instability… to years lost in addiction, Jesse opens up about the reality of what he’s been through — and how close he came to losing everything.But this isn’t just a story about rock bottom.It’s about what happens when you finally decide to fight your way back.Jesse shares how walking into Self Seen (after sitting in the car park more times than he can count) changed the course of his life. From feeling lost and broken… to becoming a leader, a mentor, and a light for other men walking the same path.This episode dives deep into:Addiction, trauma, and the truth behind coping mechanismsThe power of brotherhood and safe spacesWhy men’s circles, vulnerability, and accountability actually workWhat it really takes to take your power backIf you’re struggling, hiding something, or just trying to figure life out — this is your reminder that you don’t have to do it alone.Because as Jesse says… you don’t have to hide it.🎧 Listen in, take something from it, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

It’s the third week of the new year ... right around the time motivation dips and old habits start whispering your name again. In this episode of Mental Health Matters, we talk about what real change actually looks like once the hype wears off.We dive into the “new year, new me” mindset, the pressure that can come with it, and how to deal with change when it feels uncomfortable, slow, or harder than expected. Because growth isn’t just about big declarations ... it’s about sticking with the small steps when no one’s clapping.We also share what we’ve personally been working on. One of us is finally getting artwork professionally framed (after way too long on the to-do list), while the other has taken the leap into starting a PT course — proof that change can look creative, physical, personal, or all of the above.This episode is about momentum, mindset, and giving yourself permission to grow at your own pace. If you’ve started the year with good intentions but feel your energy wobbling a bit… this chat is for you.

In episode 6 of Mental Health Matters, we're joined by former Wauchope local Matt Doherty, who opens up about his personal journey of realizing the importance of tending to his mental well-being. Matt shares the eye-opening moments that comes with being a parent that subsequently forced him to prioritize his mental health and the practical steps he took to improve it. We also dive into the ripple effects Matt has created from looking after himself, and how those changes influenced his life and those around him. It's a conversation full of insights and relatable moments that we hope will inspire you on your own mental health journey.

In this deeply personal episode of Mental Health Matters, Strawny and Benny dive into a candid conversation about addiction. Strawny shares some raw and vulnerable moments for the first time from his own experience, while Benny brings thoughtful questions and shares his own experience and insights that shed light on the path to recovery. Together, they offer practical tips and heartfelt advice for anyone looking to break free from the grips of addiction. Tune in for a genuine, supportive, and ultimately hopeful Episode 5.

Why does fear have such a grip on us — and how can we loosen it? In this episode, Strawny and Benny open up with personal stories about their own fears, share a few laughs along the way, and break down practical ways to face fear head-on. From the state of "Fight or Flight" to life’s bigger challenges, this chat will leave you with tools, perspective, and maybe even the courage to try something new. Benny re-visits his time working for the council and the scene gets set for a very raw & vulerable Ep.5 for the boys.

In this week’s Mental Health Matters, Strawny and Benny dive deep into the realities of burnout—how to spot it, stop it, and set boundaries that actually stick. The boys explore the power of breathwork for managing stress and staying present, while also laying down some personal accountability tasks to keep each other on track.Plus, Benny gets grilled with some rapid-fire questions that take a few unexpected turns. Honest chats, laughs, and real talk about looking after your mental health—it’s all here.🎧 Tune in, breathe, and maybe set a boundary or two.

In the second installment of Mental Health Matters, Strawny flies solo for a powerful one-on-one chat with Tanika Baker —naturopath, neurodiversity advocate, and head of The Wellness Collective in Wauchope.Benny couldn’t make it this week due to a family emergency (we’ve got you, mate ❤️), but the conversation goes deep as Tanika shares her personal journey of parenting, late-diagnosed ADHD, and how that set her on a mission to support others through natural medicine, genetics, and nervous system support.We also get into some "myth busting", gut biome & methylene (MTHFR) testing, criminal behaviour at the servo, "The Kramer" and yes—some very random "icebreaker" questions that involve talking animals and oddly textured foods.Whether you're a neurodivergent parent or just trying to make it through the day with your sanity intact, this one’s for you.

In our debut of the new and improved ‘Mental Health Matters,’ we sit down with former NRL star Jeremy Latimore. From his days on the field to his new life after the game, Jeremy shares his journey, the challenges athletes face, and the importance of routine and surrounding yourself with good people. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation filled with laughs that highlights the power of resilience and connection.