In this episode of Untidy we talk to the iconic Kiwi entertainer, now, mental health advocate Mike King. Mike gives us a warts-and-all account of his evolution from an edgy and turbulent life as a breakthrough comedian, to his life-threatening reckoning that changed his path forever.

Mike is now the founder of I Am Hope Foundation and initiative, Gumboot Friday, which fundraises to provide free and timely counselling for young people across Aotearoa. Mike is not afraid to rattle some cages as he works towards societal change that will positively impact the devastating suicide statistics amongst our rangitahi in New Zealand. 

We discuss the inner critic that lives inside of all of us and how this is where anxiety and depression stem. Through being honest about our own experiences, thoughts and feelings, we can parent our tamariki in a way that they understand they are not alone, they are worthwhile, and they are valued to give them a brighter future. 

Help Hannah and her team, Tuk Tuk Boom, raise vital funds for Gumboot Friday through their Givealittle page https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/tuk-tuk-boom as they race a tuk tuk around Sri Lanka! And keep an eye out on @untidypodcast for race updates. 

Follow Mike King at @themikeking as well as @iamhope_nz and @gumbootfriday. (If you need help, please find some resources below.)

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode of Untidy, please subscribe to the show in your podcast app to help us build this community and make sure you never miss an episode.

Untidy is made for you – the people right at the heart of this steaming hot mess we call parenthood. Follow the show and get in touch on Instagram @untidypodcast and visit Untidy podcast. Find Matilda at @matootles and get your copy of The Feel Good Guide. Find Hannah at @hannahedavison and her My Big Moments children’s books at @mybigmoments. Enter code UNTIDY at checkout for 10% off your order.

This Untidy episode is co-produced, edited and hosted by the good folks at rova.

Resources:

For under 25s: 

• Get a counsellor through Gumboot Friday — https://www.gumbootfriday.org.nz/get-a-counsellor 

• Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email [email protected] or online chat.

• The Lowdown Text 5626 for support to help young people recognise and understand depression or anxiety.

For over 25s:

• Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.

• The Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202 (to talk to a trained counsellor about how you are feeling or to ask any questions).

• Alcohol Drug Helpline (0800 787 797)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.