Co-hosted by Hans Hageman, a longtime advocate for justice, mental health, and community leadership, the podcast shines a light on the mental health crisis in agriculture. With a background that spans law, education, and social entrepreneurship, Hans has spent his career helping people navigate systemic barriers and build stronger, more sustainable futures. Now, through Cultivating Resilience, he’s turning his focus to the people who keep our food systems running, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to thrive.

In this interview, Hans shares what inspired him to launch the podcast, the unique struggles farmers face, and why open conversations about mental health are essential for the future of agriculture.

Cultivating Resilience co-host Hans Hageman

What inspired you to start the Cultivating Resilience podcast, and how did your own journey influence its creation?

The Cultivating Resilience podcast emerged from my commitment to addressing the mental health challenges prevalent among US farmers. My background in social entrepreneurship and community development, particularly in underserved areas, highlighted the critical need for mental health support in agricultural communities. This realisation propelled me to co-create a platform where farmers could openly discuss their experiences and access essential resources.

My journey has been deeply intertwined with community empowerment and resilience-building. Working in various capacities, from founding educational institutions in East Harlem and India to leading community centres and civil rights programs in the Mississippi Delta, I’ve consistently encountered the profound impact of mental health on individuals and communities. Recognising similar challenges within the farming sector, I was inspired to co-host Cultivating Resilience to provide a space for farmers to share their stories and find support.

Why is it important to bring attention to the mental health challenges that farmers in the US face, and what do you hope listeners take away from the podcast?

Farmers face unique stressors, including financial pressures, rural isolation, and the unpredictability of weather and markets. These factors contribute to elevated stress levels and mental health issues within the agricultural community. By bringing attention to these challenges, the podcast aims to destigmatise mental health discussions and encourage farmers to seek help, fostering a culture where mental well-being is prioritised.

What is your favourite episode from the podcast so far and why?

I learned so much from every episode, but I think my favourite was the one I recorded with TemuAsyr Bey Martin. He discussed combining grassroots activism and federal lobbying, and brought a lot of energy and hope to the discussion.

In what ways do you hope this podcast can spark change or offer support within the farming community?

Through the podcast, we aim to normalise discussions around mental health in the farming community. By sharing real-life experiences and resources, we hope to empower farmers to seek support and implement strategies that enhance their well-being.

Can you discuss the importance of building community among farmers and how the podcast contributes to that sense of connection?

The podcast contributes to building a sense of community among farmers by creating a shared space where they can connect over common experiences, fostering solidarity and mutual support.

How do you see the podcast evolving in the future to further address the challenges faced by farmers and rural communities?

Looking ahead, we envision the podcast evolving to address emerging challenges faced by farmers and rural communities, such as climate change impacts and technological advancements in agriculture. By staying attuned to these issues, we can continue to provide relevant content that supports our audience.

What message do you hope to send to listeners who might not be part of the farming community but tune in to learn and empathise?

To listeners outside the farming community, we hope to convey the interconnectedness of agriculture and society. Understanding the challenges farmers face fosters empathy and highlights the importance of supporting those who sustain our food systems.

As someone whose career has focused on nurturing resilience and creativity, what does the concept of resilience mean to you, especially in the context of this podcast?

Resilience, to me, means the capacity to adapt and thrive amidst adversity. In the context of this podcast, it reflects the strength of farmers who navigate numerous challenges daily and underscores the importance of providing them with tools and support to maintain their mental health.

By addressing these aspects, the Cultivating Resilience podcast aims to be a beacon of support and a catalyst for positive change within the farming community.

Listen to Cultivating Resilience on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

This article was produced as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com

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The inspiration for starting a podcast is intrinsically personal – Tom Davies has used his own journey as the foundation for his highly regarded Proper Mental Podcast, a show which leaves no stone unturned for mental health. Tom has always been beautifully open about his own experiences:

“I started Proper Mental to create the sort of platform that I needed when I was struggling. Initially it was going to be a short series of conversations but it seemed to resonate with so many people it made more sense to start making a weekly show.

In 2016 my mental health declined to the point of collapse and I experienced a breakdown. I didn’t tell anyone what was happening to me. Mental health just wasn’t on my radar and I’d never heard anyone I could relate to talk about being poorly. I didn’t have the words to describe what was going on, I didn’t know who I could tell if I did. I thought I was going ‘Proper Mental’.”

Tom’s audience continues to grow and the national award nominations are also starting to roll in – but Tom makes it clear that the outreach of the podcast is the most rewarding part of the process.

“It wasn’t until I started speaking openly about my mental health and listening to others talk about their own experiences that I could really start working towards recovery. Speaking to so many people has given me an incredible understanding of my own mental health journey and a fascinating insight into what other people are going through.

I make the podcast so that anyone who listens might feel less alone, get a better understanding of their own experiences or gain insight into the experiences of others and maybe find out about organisations, support systems or self-care techniques that they might not know much about.”

As with any aspect of mental health, Tom has to skilfully and humbly steer the conversations with his guests.

“It feels like a real privilege to be able to hold space for my guests and the fact that they trust me with their stories is an honour I will never take lightly. I recently recorded an episode with a street artist, and former soldier called Jay Wheeler, who was medically discharged. It was incredibly moving and I couldn’t be prouder of how we navigated such a challenging story. Another episode that was an incredible experience was one I recorded with my wife. We talked through my experience with mental ill health from her perspective and the effect it had on our family and that resonated with a massive amount of people.”

The Proper Mental Podcast has plans to continue, and Tom is also putting a lot of time into further outreach efforts.

“I did my first live show last year, it was really well received and a lot of fun. I’m currently in the process of pulling together everything I’ve learned from almost 100 conversations about mental health and putting it all into a talk that I’d like to deliver to schools, workplaces or at events. I try to introduce my listeners to charities and organisations that they might not be aware of and speak to experts about different aspects of support and self-care so anyone listening can get a better idea of what’s out there.”

Listen to Proper Mental on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other popular podcast apps >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

Hi there I’m Kate!

Everyday Positivity is a short daily podcast that reminds you to be kind to yourself, and gives you ways to take on the world with a positive mindset. You might get a nugget of advice, or a story from my ridiculous life that will help. More often than not I pick up great morsels of wisdom from talking to people day to day and I think “I HAVE to share that with the community”.

My key message is that positivity is not about pasting a smile over the cracks of life, it’s about knowing you can cope with the cracks of life…. It’s just that sometimes you need reminding that you have 100% got this. And that is why Everyday Positivity exists.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

The moment I “got into” podcasting was with the audio drama We’re Alive from 2009.

The story starts in LA as a “virus” starts spreading across the city. It evolves into a full blown zombie apocalypse. The story is told by “Michael” and the people he meets, via the diaries he encourages them to keep. The narrative is the diaries, and it was beautifully crafted.

It was the first time I had heard something that I could see in my mind’s eye as a movie. It also felt that you had found this gang of underground actors that were making a name for themselves. They felt like my own special discovery. At the time they were sponsored by a company that put fish tanks in office vestibules. It was a proud moment when the advertising voice said “with Audible…”, I thought “they’ve made it”.

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place?

At the beginning of 2017 I went through a bout of depression. I had suffered before, but I could always boil it down to some sort of reason – loss of a job, change in life situation, postnatal depression. This time I couldn’t understand it. So as part of my healing, I deployed some self care. I started with a new trainer at the gym and got in with a group of amazing women (they had a Whatsapp group called “PMA Ladies”). In both cases they were vocal with their praise and positivity – it made me feel so much better, and I healed.

This podcast was born out of that. I felt that if I needed reminding every day to be positive, feel good and be kind to myself, there would be others too. All I wanted to do was remind people to be kind to themselves. You can do so much more when you are not beating yourself up – what a waste of time it turns out to be.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I love podcasts like The Hidden Brain, Work Life with Adam Grant and Dolly Parton’s America. Podcasts that are sort of documentaries but actually well curated, and designed interviews. There is a neat podcast called Lobster Brain (my podcasting company Purposeful Podcasts produces this), their guests are very wise, and I enjoy hearing Scott Thomas interview some really wise Millenials in Learning As I Go (which we also produce).

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

Easy. The listeners and I decided last year that Dolly Parton is the Patron Saint of Everyday Positivity. Every time you see her interviewed she is so REAL, and draws her positivity from accepting things as they are and rolling with them. If I could bottle that for the world, I would.

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

Always today’s!

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

Find out more at patreon.com/everydaypositivity or follow us on Instagram @officialeverydaypositivity

Listen to Everyday Positivity on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other popular podcast apps >>

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I set up Reach Out for Mental Health in 2016 after losing a colleague, Steve, to suicide, which turned my world upside down. After working in health and social care for over 10 years I’d supported adults struggling with suicidal thoughts and experienced the frustrations daily of trying to get someone support when they need it. The obvious output for my grief was to create a service which Steve needed and may have kept him alive.

The Reach Out for Mental Health podcast, co-hosted by myself and Stu Whiffen, is a place to get up close and personal with those who have experienced their own struggles with suicidal thoughts or have sadly lost someone to suicide. It’s a space for people to feel vulnerable and yet safe enough to share some of the darkest times of their lives, sharing with others the stories behind what led them to feel suicidal and most importantly – how they fought their way out. It’s a podcast full of courage, despair, pain… and hope.

#1 Mark Phillips

Mark is one of my oldest and dearest friends. Oddly enough, he was Stu’s friend before he was mine, back when they were both knee-high to a grasshopper. He moved to Australia over a decade ago and in 2021 Mark’s world fell apart. Mark tells a story of gambling addiction, debt and feeling so trapped he believed there was only one way out. I was so touched by his willingness to ‘go public’ about his situation, understandably something he has kept quite very private up until the podcast. Mark now has his own incredible podcast called Between the Bars talking all things music.

#11 Tom Davies- Proper Mental Podcast

The podcast with Tom will always remain close to my heart, mainly because of the number of parallels I could drew between his experiences of shitty mental health and my own. Yet, this is the magic of our podcast- being able to sit there, listen to someone else pour their heart out about something so devastating for them, all the while sitting there screaming at the laptop “Oh My God, I know exactly what you mean!!!” It’s beyond nourishing. It’s the start of recovery for some. Definitely was for me. Check out more of what Tom has to say in his podcast, Proper Mental Podcast.

#20 Bea Dux

Talking to Bea was like those weird yet delightfully unexpected situations you find yourself in at parties, networking events or other social functions; you’re chatting over a vol-au-vent, trying hard not to fling pastry in their eye and after 5 minutes you feel so comfortable and connected with this person you want to invite them to your wedding! Bea was unashamedly open and raw about her diagnosis, what impact it has on her daily life and those around her. It was a complete reset from all conversations I’ve had with others over the years who live with Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder. She doesn’t sugar coat anything, she lays it on the line. No hiding in the loos on this podcast.

#21 Billy Lunn – The Subways

Having been a Subways fan for nearly 20 years you can imagine my delight at interviewing the man himself, Billy Lunn. We published the video for this interview on our socials and you can just see me beaming throughout the entire thing! As with everyone who comes on our podcasts, his vulnerability and candour was utterly refreshing, giving us an insight into the lifestyle of being a touring musician, the excitement and pitfalls of living in the world of rock and roll including alcoholism. Billy shares with us his struggles with suicidal thoughts, living with Borderline Personality Disorder and the relief and acceptance which accompanied his diagnosis.

#3 Darren Smith of Andy’s Man Club

A theme that all of our podcast episodes share is that of feeling hopeless, trapped and overwhelmed – followed by hope, strength and the reclamation of their life. This one with Darren Smith does just that and then some. The reasons for people feeling this way aren’t usually because of psychotic illness or some dramatic and devastating event in their lives. It’s usually down to everyday shit being thrown in their path, which just builds and builds and builds. Like debt, relationship breakdown, problems with getting access to their kids, gambling, drinking too much booze. The whole reason I wanted to start a podcast was to show listeners that although the struggle feels unsurmountable at times- you CAN GET THROUGH IT. I love hearing from people who have been in the depths of depression, feeling like there is no way out… and then out of nowhere a light appears, a thought pulls them from the edge and the recovery starts. Darren talks about his battle with suicidal thoughts, how an online men’s mental health group saved him and how he is paying it forward. Hope in abundance.

Listen to The Reach Out for Mental Health Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other popular podcast apps >>

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Content Warning: these podcasts talk about the real experiences of living with mental illnesses. Content includes addiction, post-partum psychosis, depression, hearing voices, bipolar disorder and living in a secure psychiatric hospital.  

I wanted to offer a long list of recommendations for podcasts about mental health. But as I began writing the article, I became a bit overwhelmed by how many there are! It’s fantastic to see that mental health and wellbeing podcasts are becoming more mainstream.

For general mental health conversations, I definitely encourage you to go and listen to amazing shows like Happy Place, Griefcast, Terrible, Thanks for Asking and of course Scroobius Pip’s mental health specials.

There are, however, far fewer podcasts focused on mental illness – which is slightly different to mental health. We all have mental health on a spectrum of ‘good’ to ‘bad’. But around 1 in 4 of us will also have a clinical mental illness at some point in our life. Conditions such depression, psychosis, bipolar disorder can still hold a lot of stigma, but podcasts are great way to learn more about the realities of such conditions.

So for this article, I want to highlight some podcasts about specific mental illness diagnoses, where we can listen to the people that live with them. I hope you find these episodes useful.

OLOGIES WITH ALIE WARD
Addictionology (ADDICTION) with Erin Parisi

In the Ologies podcast, science communicator Alie Ward talks to different scientists (or ‘ologists’) about their field of expertise. Whilst many episodes are whimsical (Pumpkins! Jellyfish!) others are more serious. I wasn’t expecting this episode about addiction, but it has been one of the most useful. It covers both substance and behavioural addiction in a non-judgemental way. Knowing someone with an addiction myself, it was a real insight into the behaviours and interventions. Listen on your podcast app >>

ON THE WARD
S1:Ep5 | On the Ward: Your questions answered

Created by St Andrew’s Healthcare, this podcast is hosted by staff nurse John-Barry Waldron, who has worked there for 15 years, ‘On the Ward’ challenges some of the myths and taboos around complex mental illness in the UK today, as it explores what really happens behind the walls of a secure psychiatric hospital. This episode is a good point of entry, as it answers some common listener questions – which cover everything from electric shock therapy, to the routine of the hospital. Listen on your podcast app >>

THE HILARIOUS WORLD OF DEPRESSION
Movies That Get Depression Right

“A show about clinical depression…with laughs?” Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, and yet it is still often stigmatised by society. The Hilarious World of Depression tackles it with laughs. Hosted by comedian John Moe, he talks to other comedians who have lived with depression. Unsurprisingly, putting multiple comics on a podcast makes anything funny! This episode is the opposite of Mad Chat, and looks at the films that give an accurate portrayal of depression. Listen on your podcast app >>

ZOMBIEMUM
Catherine Cho | ‘I’d better act sane’

For illustrator and writer Laura Dockrill, becoming a mum was life-changing in a very unexpected way. After a traumatic delivery Laura was diagnosed with postpartum psychosis. It’s a serious mental illness that affects around 1 in 500 women, yet people rarely talk about it. In Zombiemum, Laura talks to other parents about aspects of motherhood that aren’t discussed enough. In this episode, she speaks to writer and literary agent Catherine Cho. They discuss their shared experience of postpartum psychosis, the cultural and familial pressures she faced when having a child, and the ways she explored this through writing her memoir ‘Inferno’. Listen on your podcast app >>

MENTALLY YOURS
Mental Illness in Literature

A weekly mental health podcast from Metro.co.uk, journalists Ellen Scott and Yvette Caster chat to people who have lived with mental illness. What adds to the authenticity of this podcast is the fact that Ellen has OCD, depression and anxiety, whilst Yvette has bipolar disorder and binge eating disorder. ‘Mental Illness in Literature’ is an interesting look at the way culture adds to stigma around conditions. Listen on your podcast app >>

MENTAL
Transition Plus Anxiety, labels and finding the real you with Miss Peppermint

Mental was created by Bobby Temps to break down mental health stigma and discrimination, and does not shy away from the true experiences of living with a diagnosis. In this episode Bobby speaks to singer, host and drag icon Peppermint to explore gender transition as a factor in mental health. But the talk also goes into alcoholism as a sickness, how it affects the family and much more. Listen on your podcast app >>

MINDCAST
Bryony’s story

MIND is one of the most prominent mental health charities in the UK and is a great resource for information, support and help. Their website has resources on a wide range of mental health problems… Their podcast is much harder to find! But it’s worth it to listen to the first-hand accounts of what it feels like to live with specific mental health problems. There are nine episodes in total, covering a range of topics such as OCD, crisis, bipolar, psychosis and more. I would recommend Bryony’s story where she talks about the challenges of being a full time carer and managing her bipolar disorder. Listen on the MIND website or  listen on your podcast app >>

MAD CHAT
Six Feet Under

Mad Chat is one of those genius podcasts that was sadly short-lived.  Host, Sandy Allen, invites a guest to discuss a piece of pop culture through the lens of their lived experience of mental illness. You quickly find out how wrong media’s portrayal of ‘madness’ is. The show discussed classics such as Dawson’s Creek, BoJack Horseman, Killing Eve and Donnie Darko. In this episode, they unpack the TV show Six Feet Under in context of Hearing Voices activism. The RSS feed for this show seems to be no more, but you can still listen on YouTube >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I’m Abbie Atkinson, an early career actor from Harrogate in North Yorkshire. My podcast Don’t Let Dave Win is about opening up the conversation surrounding mental health within the arts industry. ‘Dave’ is the nickname I have given to my negative inner voice. I named the voice in order to humanise it and make it seem less intimidating. So in each episode, I chat to a guest who works within the creative industry about their inner voice, how they combat it, and whether theirs has a name!

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place? What was it about the medium that felt right for this project?

I decided to start this podcast to create change within the arts industry. I was having a lot of really important conversations in private with fellow actors about mental health and what needs to change within the industry to better support people. These conversations felt too important to keep private, so I decided to start recording them. The podcast medium felt right for these conversations because I wanted to give my guests the freedom to chat in whichever way felt the most comfortable – whether that be in person, over a video call, or over an audio call. As a medium, it allows for flexibility in that aspect.

Did you take inspiration from any other podcasts?

I took some inspiration from Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place. I discovered Happy Place when I was in a really dark headspace and it helped me to feel uplifted and to be reminded that I’m not alone in feeling this way. This is one of my key aims with my podcast – to create a safe space in which listeners can feel that they are not alone. Especially in the world of the arts, because it can be a very lonely place.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

My dream guest would be Fearne Cotton because her podcast was the first one I started listening to religiously, and because of the influence it’s had on my own work.

You’re an actor used to playing other people – how have you found it being yourself as the host?

I’ve actually really enjoyed being myself as a podcast host. It’s scary, not having a character to hide behind, but it’s been very liberating too. I’m usually an introvert, so it’s been a good challenge for me to speak openly and honestly, and to prove to myself that I am enough. I don’t need to be a character, or to learn a script, in order to have something to say.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

You can follow Don’t Let Dave Win on Instagram and Twitter to find out more about me and more about the podcast.

The Instagram handle is: @dont.let.dave.win

The Twitter handle is: @DontLetDaveWin

Listen to Don’t Let Dave Win on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other popular podcast apps >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I’m Tom Bustard, 33 from Teesside but I now live in Leeds. I am an ex-professional cyclist and founder and host of Yorkshire Grit podcast.
Yorkshire Grit aims to unlock the stigma around men’s mental health. Grounded in brutal honesty and having faith that good things will come from telling the truth, no matter how hard it is. The podcast is mostly sport focused but it is predominantly about hearing inspirational stories of triumph and despair.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

It was the Joe Rogan experience on YouTube. He is the daddy of podcasts.

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place?

I started Yorkshire Grit on 31st December 2018. I was at my lowest point and was in a really bad way. I remember walking back from a family friends and everything around me was crumbling; I just remember standing over this high bridge for a while.

I didn’t want to die but I remember looking down and something came to me, the idea that I needed to talk about this and help other people who were also in this position.

So I went straight home and set up an Instagram account, if you check my first post it’s on that night.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I’m hugely inspired by Jordan Peterson, everything I listen to with him changes my way of thinking for the better.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

It’s a hard one and I get this question a lot but it would be a toss up between Tyson Fury, Jordan Peterson and Roger Federer. I just don’t think I could pick between that trio to be honest, it would have to be rock paper scissors.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a podcaster?

That you have to push yourself! Depression and addiction do not care, you have to rise up and use every fibre in your body to move forward. The stories I’ve heard on the podcast all share a similar notion, that it’s only you who can do it.

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

The episode with Tour de France legend Tyler Hamilton, who was Lance Armstrong’s right hand, was pretty life changing for me. Also the first episode in the pandemic with triathlete Jonny Brownlee, those two episodes helped a lot of people and I know that from the listener feedback and response I received.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

You can follow @gritYorkshire2019 on Instagram where I post about the podcast, guests and a few bits about what I’m up to.

Listen to Yorkshire Grit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other podcast platforms

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If you could go back to before you started your show and give yourself one piece of advice. what would it be?

FC: I have learned a hell of a lot recording the first four series of Happy Place. I had to make the strange transition from radio to this looser format so I was a little scared to let things appear unstructured at first. I have been so used to prepping everything meticulously for interviews and having very prepared questions where as I have learned that there is beauty in the moments of silence, juiciness in the uncertainty of where things are going and a liberation for me in how that feels!

What is it about podcasts that appeals to you?

The intimacy. It allows guests a rare chance to properly relax in to a subject and be totally authentic. I have cried listening to podcasts, howled with laughter and remained utterly thoughtful for weeks after. Not many other mediums have this affect on me.

What makes a great podcast guest?

Someone who is willing to GO THERE. My guests have to know this isn’t an interview. This is a conversation that has to be fluid and relaxed. If the guests just simply answers like they’re being interviewed by a journalist then there is less room for magic. I love it when a guest surprises me and relaxes more and more throughout the chat to reveal something utterly normal and mundane about themselves. Often we think of people in the public eye, revered characters or academics as above us but when they let loose and allow us to delve beneath the surface we can all experience a deeper level of connection.

What makes a great podcast host?

This is a simple answer. Someone who listens.

What’s been the worst moment of your podcasting career so far?

I’ve been lucky that there haven’t been too many. When I was in Sicily interviewing Ludivico Einaudi the jumpsuit I was planning to wear to meet him snapped at the strap so I had to wear denim shorts and my pyjama top for the recording!

What’s your podcast pet peeve?

Intros that go on for longer than two minutes. I want to get IN TO IT.

Is there anything you found frustrating as a podcast listener but understand now you make your own?

Not really as I’m not critical of other peoples work. I think there is room for every style and subject matter. This is one of the few mediums that still holds little room for rules so I’m not going to start picking holes in how others make their shows because we should all celebrate each others differences.

Which episode of Happy Place means the most to you?

I have to say a HUGE thank you to Dawn French as she agreed to do the podcast before I had properly started. She had nothing to go on. No previous guests and not a single episode to listen to and consider first. We had a delightful day in Cornwall and captured some special seaside magic! She even gave me a Cornish pasty to take on the plane with me.

Which episode of someone else’s podcast means the most to you?

There is one episode of Eckhart Tolle and Oprah’s podcast A New Earth I have listened to maybe four times. Its episode three and labelled The Core of the Ego. Its so interesting and I get something new from it every time.

On Happy Place, Fearne Cotton talks to incredible people about life, love, loss, and everything in-between as she reveals what happiness means to them. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other popular podcast apps.

@fearnecotton // officialfearnecotton.com

Main photo: Stephanie Sian Smith

The post THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO… Fearne Cotton appeared first on POD BIBLE.

Do men really talk? We’re currently facing a major mental health challenge in society with suicide being the biggest killer of men
under the age of 45, so what can we do to make sure we’re really airing our thoughts and fears?

Comedian Russell Kane hosts the podcast Man Baggage where he talks to celebrities and an array of people in efforts to tussle with the real problems that men face. So, how does Russell personally feel about male mental health and how does he like to handle the subject?

RK: Men’s mental health – it’s an iceberg problem. Most of it is hidden – and incredibly deadly. There is a space to use humour and banter to get a certain type of man to engage. That’s the area I’m interested in.

There’s a new episode each Tuesday where Russell leaves no topic off the table! The podcast was previously titled Boys Don’t Cry and this title also perfectly summarised many of the issues that the podcast is inherently about. At what point did Russell personally decide that he wanted to do more for men’s mental health?

RK: When I saw, finally, that the long needed conversation around men’s mental health was beginning – but that it was somewhat dominated by worthiness. There is nothing wrong with worthiness – but a certain type of working-class man is put off by the seriousness of it.

The Russell Kane’s Man Baggage podcast blurb rather wonderfully says it all:

“Russell and his guests explore all the uncomfortable and anxiety-inducing conversations that usually make men run for the door by doing what blokes do best – make daft jokes about them.

Are men biologically more reckless? Are women naturally more assertive than men? Should all men wear a watch? Thought provoking, insightful and laugh out loud funny, Man Baggage takes you to all the best places.”

As Russell points out, as the host he tries to make the conversations funny, accessible and engaging so that we can all partake in the themes. It’s often the case that men can avoid emotional baggage, hence the need for the podcast – what are his personal highlights?

RK: Easily – the episode about heights. I cannot believe what a divisive topic it is to men and women, to reflect on how tall they are, and how much insecurity and toxicity lies beneath it.

What more can we do – what advice would Russell personally give to make sure that we carry on these conversations?

The number one piece of advice I gave to all blokes is check in twice. Most men will tell you everything is okay, so you’re gonna need to be a little bit annoying when you’re checking in with a friend you’re worrying about. Don’t worry about being annoying, you might save his life.

Listen to Russell Kane’s Man Baggage now on Apple podcasts, Spotify or wherever you find your podcasts.

This article was first written in August 2021 and featured in Issue #016 of the Pod Bible Magazine. Subscribe to the magazine so you never miss an issue. 

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Adam Richardson caught up with Brendan Geoghegan and Matthew Riley in January 2022 to discuss their LGBTQ+ podcast that explores mental health and dealing with your own rock bottom. The guys discuss the origins of the podcast, some of their favourite guests and the work that foes into producing an independent show.

Listen to Bottoming on Acast or Spotify.

Listen to the Pod Bible Podcast on Acast or Spotify.

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In each issue of the magazine, we ask a Podcast Disciple five questions about their love of podcasts and podcasting. For Issue #006 of the Pod Bible magazine we were joined by Dr Suzi Gage, from Say Why To Drugs!

Why do you love podcasts?

My work means a lot of travelling to conferences or to give guest lectures, so I spend a LOT of time on trains. Podcasts are my saviour, making journeys across country fly by, and entertaining and educating me in the process.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

Oof. I have to dredge back in my memory for this. I would think it would either be Adam and Joe’s radio show podcast, or Collings & Herrin.

Which podcaster makes you laugh the most?

Bob Mortimer. A new episode of Athletico Mince is always a highlight, and I can’t watch premier league football in the same way after Gangs of the EPL. Special shoutout to Richard Herring too – his recent RHLSTP episode with Ed Gamble had me crying with laughter on a train recently.

Which podcast has educated you the most?

I have learnt a lot about crimes of the past via the amazing Drunk Women Solving Crime. Sodajerker is a great podcast about songwriting. top and Search has informed me loads about drug policy. But I think my fave is Rule of Three – I’ve learnt so much about the craft of comedy and storytelling from listening to comedians picking their favourite comedies and discussing them with Joel Morris and Jason Hazeley.

Can you recommend a podcast our readers may not have heard of?

I really love Why Aren’t You a Doctor Yet? I wonder if they need a rebrand though as a couple of them got their PhDs recently – congratulations Alex and Oz! The podcast talks about science and tech with experts, with humour, and with lots of millennial pop culture. It’s interesting, thoughtful and hilarious – what’s not to love.

On Say Why To Drugs, Dr Suzi Gage, a psychologist interested in understanding associations between substance use and mental health, tackles one substance per episode – providing information about what we know – the harms, but also potential benefits of these substances. here’s no hype, no spin and no judgement, just information. Listen now on ACAST, SPOTIFY or your favourite podcast app.

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

My name is Tom and I’m the host of The Proper Mental Podcast. The idea behind the podcast is to normalise open and honest conversations about mental health by having those types of conversations. It’s not a sad stories podcast, it’s actually quite light hearted and very conversation based. My goal is to be relatable to anyone listening and to encourage people to ask for help if they need it and speak up if they want to.

I’ve spoken to people from the telly, Olympic athletes, local community leaders and even members of my own family and all these stories have things in common and that’s where the relatability comes in. I’ve also done specific episodes about things like medication with people who are qualified to talk about these things. I use Proper Mental to explore all the different aspects of mental health and mental illness and I want the podcast to become a resource for anyone who needs it.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

Distraction Pieces with Scroobius Pip. I wasn’t even sure what a podcast was before Pip started! I’ve been listening to his show from very early on and I still enjoy listening now.

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place?

Hearing other people talk openly about their own struggles with mental health helped me to realise that I wasn’t alone in feeling the way I did and inspired me to start talking about my own experiences. Once I opened up, I realised how powerful conversation can be and how much can be gained from shared experience. I wanted to do something to help other people and to break down some of the mental health related stigma that can stop people getting the help they need. The one thing I’ve always been good at is talking so a podcast just made sense!

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I’m a big fan of The Fight Disciples and I love how they stand out in a very crowded area of podcasting by being authentic and passionate. It’s awesome that they don’t rely on guests and it’s based purely on conversation rather than interviews and is still really popular. That’s tough to do and they are brilliant at it! I also love Life in the Stocks. Matt has built up a really big podcast in a very organic way and by staying completely away from mainstream guests. He only talks to people he’s into and that really comes out in the conversations. His back catalogue is brilliant and incredibly varied!

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

Possibly the biggest (no pun intended) mental health advocate is Tyson Fury. Him being so open really did bring a huge amount of awareness to mental health and despite him being the Heavyweight Champion of the World, his story isn’t particularly different to millions of other people, which is what makes him so relatable. Plus, he doesn’t do many podcasts so it would be an exclusive!

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a podcaster?

Don’t worry about trying to get celebrity guests or big names. If you’re engaging in authentic conversations that are relevant to your audience, then people will get on board. I’ve chatted to influencers with thousands of followers, award winners and sports stars but my most downloaded episode by a mile is one I recorded with my Aunty, who’s a nurse. Also, if you’re using Zoom make sure you’ve got decent WIFI! I definitely learned this one the hard way!

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

The episode I get the most messages and emails about is actually a bonus episode I recorded with my wife. I have shared my own mental health journey in an early episode so we recorded a follow up where we chatted about how my illness affected her and our family. It seemed to resonate with so many people and it’s a very good representation of what Proper Mental is all about. It’s a side of mental health that isn’t really explored but it’s not just those struggling who are impacted by mental illness and it felt like an important conversation to have.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

Proper Mental comes out every Monday, and often on a Thursday, on all the usual podcast platforms. You can connect with me on social media @propermentalpodcast.

Listen to Proper Mental now on SPOTIFY and your favourite podcast app.

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This article was produced as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com.

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Dead Parent Club is a weekly podcast that aims to help young people navigating grief after losing a parent or parents. This June they are trying to get men talking openly and honestly about grief. To mark International Men’s Health Week and Father’s Day, presenters Kat Hooker and Emma Jones will be joined by a host of special guests (including Steve Bland, Guvna B, and Jake Quickenden) sharing their personal experiences of grief.

We asked Kat and Emma to tell us a bit more about their podcast.

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

My name’s Kat Hooker and my mum died in 2015 when I was 20, and my co-host Emma’s mum died when she was 18 in 2008. Together, we host the Dead Parent Club podcast, which aims to provide support to other young adults who are grieving the loss of a parent/s or significant figure.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

The first podcast Kat listened to was called the High-Low, she loved the open and honest conversation. Emma has a love of true crime podcasts.

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place?

Kat started the podcast at the end of 2018 after three years of grieving the death of her mum. She loved the raw and honest conversations she was having with other young grievers at the time and thought it would benefit other people who were going through a similar loss while navigating adulthood. Emma was a guest on the podcast in season 1 and found it so beneficial and loved the difference it was making to other young grievers and wanted to become a part of it. She joined Kat as a co-host this year for season 2.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

We take inspiration from The Grief Cast and You Me and The Big C – they were the first prominent podcasts encouraging safe and open conversations in the grief space. We love the work they’ve done to normalise the conversation.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

We would love to have Prince Harry on the podcast. He’s recently started to open up a lot more about the effect losing his mum so young had on his life, and we think these conversations are so beneficial to other grievers who perhaps have never felt comfortable opening up.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a podcaster?

For Kat, it’s the fact that you can never fully plan a podcast to the T. You never know what route your guest is going to take you down and that’s what makes them so exciting.

For Emma, she’s learnt that the best podcasts are the ones where every interviewer and every guest are 100% themselves.

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

Supporting Grieving Friends is a great episode for both grievers and the family/friends of people who have lost someone significant to them. We have a really candid conversation around what helped us and what didn’t when we were grieving, which could help other grievers feel less isolated in what they’re going through, but we also offer some really good advice if you’re hoping to support someone close to you.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

You can find us on all major podcast streaming platforms at the Dead Parent Club or on Instagram at @deadparentclubpodcast on Twitter at @dpcpodcast or on Facebook at Dead Parent Club Podcast. You can also drop us an email at hello@deadparentclub.co.uk.

The Get Men Talking Series runs from 4th to 25th June. In the most recent episode, Robbie Savage opens up about losing his father at just 63 years-old after a 5 year battle with Pick’s disease, a form of Alzheimer’s, in 2012. Listen now >>

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Comedian Suzi Ruffell is no stranger to the podcast world; her show Like Minded Friends with co-host and friend Tom Allen has proved very popular and funny, often talking about the strangest topics.

Suzi has now released a new podcast called Out with Suzi Ruffell with the intention of speaking to inspirational figures from the LGBTQ+ community. Still in its first season, Suzi has already hosted some emotional conversations with truly fascinating guests, and she had a clear idea from the outset of what she wanted to create.

I really wanted to create a podcast that had a hopeful and positive message about being queer. There is a long tradition in the LGBT+ community of people sharing their coming out story, I thought a podcast would be a great way to share those stories and celebrate the guests journeys from realising they were different to finding their place in the world. I noticed there wasn’t anything quite like what I wanted to do so I just went for it. It was probably only about two months from first speaking to the team at Keep It Light Productions before the first episode came out.

Not only has the LGBTQ+ audience responded well, but Suzi is keen to point out that all ears have turned towards the podcast and its engaging chats.

I’ve loved creating this show and the listener reaction has been brilliant, part of the show is sharing audience correspondence and I have been blown away by how many people have got in touch. It has also reached beyond the queer community and I have received so many emails from straight people who have loved and been inspired by the guests on the show.

Like many podcasters, Suzi has had some personal thrills in producing the series, and she’s been shown wonderful hospitality too…

I have been so lucky with guests, an Oscar winner, a Bafta winner, notable broadcasters, writers, comedians, activists, and a Baroness Pretty impressive for series one. I can’t pick a favourite, they were all brilliant and special. The first episode I recorded was Dustin Lance Black, he won an Oscar for the film Milk, which is one of my favourite films. Dustin is also an activist who has always fought for the rights of the oppressed. Spending an hour listening to him and his story confirmed to me we were making something pretty special. Also the amount of beautiful listener stories we have received and folk telling me what the podcast means to them has been very humbling. I just want to keep creating a show that is thoughtful and funny and that people enjoy. I already have the beginnings of a very exciting line up for series 2.

Suzi would like to raise awareness to akt, a charity that supports young people from the LGBTQ+ community in the UK who experience homelessness or hostile living environments, lending support via safe homes and employment, education or training, not to mention a welcoming and open environment that celebrates LGBTQ+ identities.

Out with Suzie Ruffle is now in it’s third season. You can listen now on ACAST, SPOTIFY or your favourite podcast app.

The post THE GOOD SAMARITAN // Out with Suzi Ruffell appeared first on POD BIBLE.

Now we’re halfway through Pride month, we thought we’d share their recommendations of the best shows available from the LGBTQ+ community right now…

TRANS 20:20s

Created by writer and filmmaker Juliet Jacques, Trans 20:20s takes a look at what it’s like to be a twenty-something trans, non-binary or gender diverse person in the year 2020. Released at the back end of the year, this podcast, which is available on Soundcloud, allows for an insight into the human experience of these marginalized individuals. Each interview offers new perspectives on government legislation, media representation, and possibly the largest topic of the year, lockdown, and how each of these things has and does affect them and others within our community. The project was commissioned by Studio Voltaire in partnership with Gendered Intelligence as part of Desperate Living C-19.

BUSY BEING BLACK

Josh Rivers sits at the helm of this podcast, with an aim of exploring how to make the most of queer Black life. There’s a richness of conversation featuring the likes of Lady Phyll, Jeffery Williams, Travis Alabanza and countless others. Last year, with funding from the European Cultural Foundation, Busy Being Black presented a series of conversations exploring queer Black solidarity across Europe during the Covid-19 crisis, and featured first-listens to a new multimedia  Anthology/Appendix’ series by Isaiah Lopaz, which explores themes of migration, faith and belonging.

BITTEN PEACH POD

Hosted by non-binary writer and director, ShayShay, Bitten Peach Pod is the queer Asian talk show that asks ‘real life’ Queer Asians the dreaded question… “where are you really from?” which results in some heartwarming and much-needed conversations. ShayShay has a beautiful energy that works perfectly as they speak to a rich variety of guests about their lives, their culture, their art and their Asian icons. It’s supported by gender-diverse, Pan-Asian artist collective, The Bitten Peach, who put on gag-worthy shows in queer venues across London – so be sure to check them out!

CALL ME MOTHER

Journalist and author of upcoming book ‘The Transgender Issue’, Shon Faye, hosts this beautiful series from Novel, talking to unsung and lesser-heard older LGBTQ+ trailblazers. We don’t hear from our LGBTQ+ elders enough in the podcast world, and this series seeks to change that, with guests including performance artist and gender theorist, Kate Bornstein, sexual health and HIV activist, Marc Thompson and actor-politician-activist, Michael Cashman to name a few. Episodes are all under 30 minutes making them easily digestible, and you’ll come away feeling educated, empowered and (if it fits!) grateful to be queer. Listen now >>

BOTTOMING

Ok, we know we’re being cheeky, but we couldn’t list our favourite LGTBQ+ podcasts without sharing our own audio child. Bottoming is the LGBTQ+ mental health podcast, discussing rock bottoming and beyond, not sex. Birthed out of our own troubles with mental health, we wanted to open up the conversation to the rest of the community and further afield, to normalise healthy discussions about our mental states. Released fortnightly, we interview guests about their mental health journeys, reflect on our own, and hope to offer practical advice related to reaching out for support. After this year, we all need it. You’re doing amazing sweetie.

Notable mentions:

SOME FAMILIES

TWO TWOS PODCAST

FLUID

UNERASED: THE HISTORY OF CONVERSION THERAPY IN AMERICA

THE LOG BOOKS

TWO SCOOPS

The post POD IS LOVE // 11 of the best LGBTQ+ podcasts for Pride Month appeared first on POD BIBLE.