Mid-life Men: the mental health podcast

In this episode, I'm joined by Jeff to discuss his long battle with mental health challenges. Jeff shares how his depression stems from childhood, living in a chaotic home environment, and how it revisited him regularly throughout his life. He describes how, after many years of struggle, he found solace in both medication and exercise, specifically running and cycling. Jeff talks about how his depression was also linked to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and how discovering the positive impact of exercise, especially in the winter months, helped him manage his symptoms.

A key part of Jeff's journey has been setting what he calls "big, hairy-ass, audacious goals." He explains how one such goal, learning to play the slide guitar and performing in a blues band, and another, cycling across the U.S. from Florida to California, were transformational experiences that gave him a new sense of purpose and control over his mental health.

However, in his sixties, Jeff was completely caught unawares when he suffered a stroke, and the impact it had on him mentally and physically, plunged him back into depression. Jeff then shares how he has adapted to live after the stroke up until today. He also discusses techniques he uses to help manage his mental health, for example, journalling daily has helped him reflect and manage his emotions. This episode is an inspiring look into how audacious personal goals and self-care can help manage mental health, especially in middle age.

Jeff referenced the Stroke Association in the UK (https://www.stroke.org.uk) or in the US, there’s the American Stroke Association (https://www.stroke.org). 

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, then general advice is to contact your doctor.  

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Shawn Bergeth, a former corporate executive who radically transformed his life after 17 years in supply chain management. Shawn opens up about his unexpected job loss, which he saw as a gift, and how it catalysed his journey toward mental health advocacy. From battling anxiety and depression to becoming a psychotherapist, Shawn shares how he embraced vulnerability and deep self-reflection.

Shawn takes us on a fascinating exploration of alternative healing practices, particularly psychedelic-assisted therapy. He recounts his transformative experiences with psilocybin at a retreat in Jamaica and ayahuasca in the Peruvian jungle. These encounters not only helped Shawn confront his inner struggles but also deepened his connection to nature and spirituality, offering insights into how these ancient therapies can unlock new paths to mental health.

Tune in for a candid discussion on how losing his corporate job led Shawn to a more fulfilling career, his perspective on the healing power of psychedelics, and why reconnecting with nature is essential for personal growth and mental well-being. Shawn’s journey will inspire anyone looking to make meaningful changes in their life, whether personally or professionally.

In this episode of the Midlife Men Podcast, host Philip Briscoe sits down with Brian Murphy, a 52-year-old father, husband, and former sports journalist, to discuss his deeply personal battle with depression. Brian opens up about how his career in journalism, particularly his passion for covering hockey, began to lose its luster around 2017, leading him into a spiral of low-level depression. Despite having a seemingly perfect life, Brian found himself increasingly withdrawn, unable to enjoy social interactions, and eventually hospitalized twice due to his condition. He discusses the challenges of confronting his mental health, the stigma surrounding depression, especially among men, and how he slowly began to manage his "dark passenger" through therapy, support groups, and a shift in priorities.

Throughout the conversation, Brian emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's identity beyond professional achievements, sharing how he eventually redefined his life by focusing on his family and personal well-being. He highlights the power of community, particularly his involvement with the Face It Foundation, a support group for men dealing with depression, which became a crucial tool in his recovery. Brian's story is a candid exploration of the struggles many men face with mental health, offering hope and practical advice for those who may be suffering in silence. Tune in for an honest and enlightening discussion that sheds light on the ongoing journey of managing depression and finding fulfillment beyond the workplace.

Dan Flanagan is a father and founder of Dad La Soul, an award-winning social impact organisation that focuses on tackling social isolation for dads. He shares his experience of struggling with being a dad and feeling like an outsider at mother and baby classes. He also reflects on his struggles with juggling his career, his father's illness, and how he found himself spending too much time on his phone at work and not experiencing fatherhood as he wanted to. 

After a bout of illness, Dan decided to stop missing out on his son’s life, reprioritised his work to do so but he still found that he felt isolated, and parenthood was not set for fathers. Dan believed that if the support wasn’t out there, he needed to build it himself. 

He realised that other men felt the same and so he started running playdates with other dads that were fun and based on his love of music. Dad la Soul was founded, and Dan has gone on to grow the organisation and provide a valuable and sometimes life-saving community for other dads in the same situation. 

To find out more about Dad La Soul and Dan’s work, visit the website https://www.dadlasoul.com/.

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In this compelling episode, we dive deep into Paul's candid journey through depression and suicidal thoughts. For years, Paul excelled in his career, leading finances for a construction company. But beneath the surface, he felt disconnected, living a life that wasn't truly his. The facade began to crumble when he took voluntary redundancy, leading to a severe depressive spiral.

Paul opens up about the pressure to conform to societal expectations, the gnawing doubts about his career, and the harrowing mornings where he didn't want to face the day. He vulnerably shares the dark moments of contemplating suicide and the overwhelming sense of isolation, even amidst his family. His story sheds light on the silent struggles many face, highlighting the importance of authenticity and self-discovery.

A turning point came when Paul sought the help of a psychotherapist, finding invaluable support in navigating his emotions and rediscovering his passions. This episode is a powerful testament to the necessity of mental health support, the courage to live authentically, and the profound impact of professional guidance in the journey to recovery. Join us to hear Paul's inspiring story of resilience and hope.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide there are organisations you can call now for example, in the UK, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123, and if you are in the US, you can call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

There are also organisations to help men who are battling depression and thoughts of suicide. In the UK, visit the Tough to Talk website, and in the US the Face It Foundation website.

Paul referenced two books by Eckhart Tolle, “The Power of Now” and “A New Earth” which are available to buy at all major retailers. 

In this episode, my guest is Mark Meier, the executive director at Face It, an organisation set up to help men understand and overcome depression and reduce the rate of male suicide. Mark shares his personal struggle with depression. In 2002, he faced severe depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, leading to hospitalisation. His journey of recovery highlights the importance of seeking help and sharing struggles, even when feeling ashamed or burdened. 

Mark emphasises the significance of talking to someone, reaching out for support, and finding resources to navigate mental health challenges. The stigma surrounding men's mental health is real, but Mark advocates for open conversations, providing care and encouraging men to seek help, irrespective of societal expectations or perceived weakness. 

Through Face It, Mark offers a safe space for men to share, connect, and receive support without judgment or financial barriers. The podcast delves into strategies for supporting individuals dealing with overwhelming feelings, emphasizing the importance of taking small steps and seeking professional help or reaching out to support groups for guidance. Mark's insights underscore the transformative power of vulnerability, honesty, and the willingness to take that crucial step towards healing and coping with mental health struggles. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression the Face It Foundation website is: https://www.faceitfoundation.org/ or you can email Mark directly at: [email protected].

There are also organisations you can call right now, for example, in the UK, the Samaritans on 116 123, and if you are in the US, you can call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

In this episode, my guest is Mark Bradshaw, who shares his personal journey with gambling addiction. Mark recalls his early exposure to gambling as a child through seaside holidays, and how his love for playing sports later led him to place bets on rugby matches. His introduction to casinos at 18 only exacerbated his addiction, eventually leading him to spend hours daily in high street betting shops.

Mark highlights the manipulative strategies of bookmakers and online gambling platforms that exploit addictive personalities. He details the severe impact gambling had on his life, including job losses and financial ruin, noting how the accessibility of online gambling accelerated his downward spiral. Mark also discusses the industry's lack of accountability and the predatory nature of their practices, which often lead to severe consequences like increased suicide rates among addicts.

Finding himself at rock bottom, Mark eventually sought to change his life, starting by isolating himself from gambling opportunities and reevaluating his priorities. He emphasizes the importance of honesty, reaching out for help, and the need for independent support systems. Now, Mark is actively involved in lobbying for stricter gambling regulations and raising awareness about the dangers of gambling addiction through collaborations with various organizations, including the World Health Organization and political figures. He concludes by stressing the significance of genuine apologies and living an honest life to rebuild trust and purpose.

In this episode of Midlife Men, Dave Cohen, comedian, novelist, and comedy writing teacher, discusses his relationship with his parents. His upbringing in a close-knit Jewish community in Leeds, shaped by the Holocaust and the establishment of Israel, lays the groundwork for a complicated familial dynamic. 

As he navigates adolescent rebellion, moves to London to pursue a comedy career, and challenges his father's firm pro-Israel stance, underlying concerns of family, identity, and mental health surface. Comedy becomes his release, with self-deprecating humour and Jewish-themed jokes defining his acts. Dave's path sheds light on parental acceptance, the struggle for belonging, and how generational gaps and undiagnosed conditions affect relationships. 

Despite never truly connecting with his father, the gradual understanding of his father's autism brings understanding and insight into their past interactions. Through introspection and empathy, Dave shares the importance of seeing things from his parents' perspective and the significance of unresolved family dynamics in shaping his personal and professional life. 

Dave also discusses the potential connection between autism, mental health, and comedy, suggesting that individuals with autism might find solace in forms of self-expression like stand-up comedy. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Dave emphasises the importance of self-awareness, understanding others' perspectives, and resolving familial conflicts before it's too late.

His story concludes with the realisation that while some bonds and understandings may never materialise, the journey towards comprehension and acceptance is an ongoing process echoing the complexities and nuances of family dynamics and mental health.

To find out more about Dave, and his work as a comedian, broadcaster, comedy writer, teacher, and author, visit his website: https://www.davecohen.org.uk/. 

In this episode of Midlife Men, Nico Morales shares his story of resilience and personal growth, reflecting on his upbringing in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He discusses how rejection shaped his early life, particularly when his sister faced a life-threatening situation, leading to feelings of rejection and fear of missing out. As a child, he shuttled between New Mexico and Arizona, highlighting his root issues of rejection and fear.

Morales reflects on how early childhood experiences can significantly impact one's adult life, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection. He delves into his journey of self-discovery, tracing back his behaviors and decisions to the need for acceptance. His narrative unfolds to include substance use, gang associations, and eventually an incident involving armed robbery, which shook his sense of identity and choices.

Through a spiritual path, Morales found solace and transformation at the age of 27. He turned towards religion for guidance and acceptance, marking a pivotal shift in his life. His commitment to faith brought him peace and a sense of purpose, allowing him to break free from the cycle of substance abuse and risky behaviors.

Ultimately, Morales views his past challenges and experiences as lessons to impart wisdom and hope to others facing similar struggles. His journey underscores the power of self-reflection, acceptance, and seeking a higher purpose beyond external validations. By sharing his story, he offers a beacon of hope for those navigating their own paths towards healing and personal growth, embracing the transformative power of faith and introspection.

At a practical level, Nico explains how he transformed his life by mastering his thoughts, emotions, and actions. By capturing and altering his thoughts, he changed his emotions and consequently his behaviors. Nico emphasizes the importance of mentorship and sharing wisdom. His book, "Five Things to Know Before You Get Sober," addresses a pre-recovery gap. Despite being part of the 1%, Nico sees his transformation as a daily commitment to honor those who struggle. He advocates for setting high standards for men and believes in the cyclical nature of strength and adversity. Nico encourages individuals to lead by example and urges friends and family to uphold virtuous conduct to inspire positive change in others.


To find out more about Nico, visit his website: https://nohalonm.com/

Welcome to this episode of Midlife Men with Philip Briscoe, featuring guest James Davis, one half of the Midlife Mentors podcast. James shares insights into navigating midlife challenges, drawing from his personal experiences, including living abroad, going through divorce, and addressing the andropause, sometimes known as the ‘male menopause’.

James discusses the origins of Midlife Mentors, stemming from his background in psychology and passion for magazine journalism. He reflects on his journey of moving to Ibiza with his then-wife to run a health retreat, but after a sudden separation, he was left to run the business alone and began to struggle with his confidence and low self-esteem.

Acknowledging the societal stigma around men seeking help, James emphasizes the importance of reaching out for support when people feel vulnerable, lost, and alone. He highlights the need for men to break free from the cultural norms of suppressing emotions and encourages them to prioritize their mental health and seek professional help when needed.

The conversation delves into the andropause, or age-related testosterone decline, and its various impacts on physical and mental health, including muscle mass loss, mood changes, and decreased libido. James emphasizes the significance of lifestyle factors such as exercise, diet, and mindset in managing andropause symptoms.

Reflecting on personal growth and relationship dynamics, James shares how he rebuilt his life after divorce, eventually finding love again. He emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, pursuing passions, and embracing change, even amidst life's challenges.

The discussion concludes with insights into the Midlife Mentors podcast, where James, and his partner Claire, aim to empower individuals in their midlife journey by sharing valuable advice and experiences. Through their platform, they strive to foster a supportive community and inspire positive transformations in midlife individuals.

For more information visit: https://themidlifementors.com/.