The conversation delves into the work of Simon Bennett, an executive coach and founder of Challenge Yourself, Kindly. From abstract studies to immersive experiences in human realities, emphasisng the capacity for containing presence and the call to cultural humility. It explores the challenge of uncertainty and polarisation, as well as the importance of genuine curiosity and cultural humility in fostering understanding and connection. The conversation delves into the challenges and transitions faced by leaders, particularly in embracing uncertainty and acknowledging its impact on group dynamics. It explores the shift from technical expertise to leadership, the power of negative capability, and the importance of acknowledging uncertainty in group dynamics.

Takeaways

• Capacity for Containing Presence
• Call to Cultural Humility Embracing uncertainty as a leader
• The impact of acknowledging uncertainty on group dynamics

Chapters

• 00:00 Journey into Human Realities
• 13:44 Genuine Curiosity and Cultural Humility
• 39:34 The Anxiety of Operating with a Sense of Superiority
• 46:18 Navigating Uncertainty as a Leader
• 57:35 The Power of Negative Capability in Leadership

You can explore Simon's work further via the website below

https://www.challengekindly.com/

Too Light Too Dark 2025 Review: The Moments That Defined the First Two Series dives into the episodes that ignited the strongest reactions and debate. From learning to sit in the dark to confronting masculinity and vulnerability, this review pulls apart key moments across multiple episodes that continue to fuel conversation. Featuring guest co‑host Damien Blazk, author of The Broken Stone Chronicle — explore his fantasy series here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=broken+stone+chronicle. Goodreads

Get connected with the Too Light Too Dark community on social:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toolighttoodark
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@toolighttoodark
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toolighttoodark
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TLTDLDN

This review challenges easy answers, highlights uncomfortable truths, and asks why Too Light Too Dark still resonates long after the credits roll — sparking must‑hear insights for fans, critics, and curious newcomers alike.

In this deep and wide-ranging conversation, we explore how trauma shapes identity, behavior, and the lifelong journey of self-discovery. The episode examines the personal, cultural, and socio-political roots of trauma, and how unresolved trauma patterns influence individuals, organizations, and society at large.

We discuss the power of vulnerability and compassion as essential tools for healing, alongside the role of shadow work, male vulnerability, and self-realization. The conversation also looks at the impact of the digital age on youth mental health, identity formation, and emotional resilience in an increasingly complex world.

From personal growth and inner work to leadership, culture, and collective healing, this episode offers grounded insights into navigating trauma, reclaiming identity, and finding meaning in modern life.

Takeaways

• Trauma and identity
• The journey to self-discovery Vulnerability and Compassion
• Impact of Digital Age on Youth

Chapters

• 00:00 Exploring Trauma and Identity
• 05:36 Socio-Political Influence on Trauma Patterns
• 11:23 Personal and Cultural Trauma
• 20:55 The Shadow Work and Male Vulnerability
• 28:13 The Journey to Self-Realization

You can engage with Jason's work and mission via the website here > https://infiniterecoveryproject.com/

Addiction doesn’t just affect the person struggling—it impacts families, futures, and lives forever changed.

In Episode 20 of Too Light Too Dark, Mark Astor confronts one of the most difficult and misunderstood subjects in mental health and law: addiction, accountability, and Florida’s Baker Act. This is an honest, unfiltered conversation about what really happens when someone reaches crisis—and how the legal system steps in when lives are on the line.

Mark breaks down the real-world consequences of addiction, the emotional weight carried by families, and the tough decisions that come with involuntary mental health holds. No clichés. No easy answers. Just clarity, compassion, and truth.

If you or someone you love has faced addiction, mental health struggles, or the fear of losing control, this episode will hit home.

• The emotional reality of addiction and personal responsibility
• What the Baker Act actually is—and when it’s used in Florida
• The fear, confusion, and urgency families experience in crisis moments
• Legal rights during involuntary mental health intervention
• Why accountability matters—even when compassion is required

This episode isn’t just informative—it’s human. And it’s necessary.

▶ YouTube (Subscribe):
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TLTDLDN/podcasts

🎙 Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2f9hdKHsNAUE5oXe7RG29K?si=5ba52c3eb5a24e61

🍎 Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/too-light-too-dark/id1819082803

Mark, his organisation and team details are below

Astor Simovitch Law can be contacted on

https://mentalhealthaddictionlawfirm.com/contact/

What if the words we use keep people trapped in homelessness?

In this episode of Too Light Too Dark, we’re joined by Jay S. Levy, author and long-time social worker who helped shape the Housing First approach. Jay digs into the shadows in homelessness practice, how story and language influence care and recovery, and why meeting people where they are isn’t just a motto—it’s a practical, compassionate framework for change.

🎧 Explore Jay’s work:
📘 Pretreatment Guide for Homeless Outreach & Housing First – https://www.jayslevy.com/books/pretreatment-guide-for-homeless-outreach-housing-first/ Jay S. Levy
📘 Pretreatment In Action: Interactive Exploration from Homelessness to Housing Stabilization – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pretreatment-Action-Interactive-Homelessness-Stabilization/dp/1615995943 Amazon
📘 Homeless Narratives & Pretreatment Pathways: From Words to Housing – https://www.waterstones.com/book/homeless-narratives-and-pretreatment-pathways/jay-s-levy/david-w-havens/9781615990276 Waterstones
🌐 Jay S. Levy’s official site – https://www.jayslevy.com/ Jay S. Levy

Whether you’re in social services, homelessness advocacy, mental health, or policy, this conversation reframes how we talk about support, dignity, and real pathways out of homelessness.

• How traditional “readiness” models fall short
• Why the language of care matters
• Stories from the field that reshape understanding
• Housing First as foundation—not a reward
• Practical compassion in frontline systems

🎙 Too Light Too Dark brings honest, human conversations about the tension between hope and systems—where light meets shadow.

“In this powerful episode, Jess from the Museum of Homelessness shares a rare frontline perspective on the systems shaping our communities. From navigating uncertainty to challenging the structures that often go unseen, Jess brings insight, honesty, and humanity to the conversation.

Together, we dive into themes of resilience, compassion, and the unexpected moments of hope that emerge even in the darkest situations. Jess also offers an inside look at how the Museum of Homelessness operates, uplifts voices, and drives meaningful change.

If you’re seeking thought-provoking dialogue, real-world expertise, and a deeper understanding of the impact and leadership of the MOH, this episode is not to be missed.

Episode 16 delivers a gripping, emotionally charged deep-dive into the life of David Breakspear—a man who moved from childhood trauma and systemic exclusion to becoming a powerful voice for criminal justice reform.

Host Leon guides listeners through David’s early years as the youngest of six, a child searching for identity while silently carrying the weight of sexual abuse and undiagnosed neurodiversity. After a severe bout of meningitis at age 10, David’s behaviour shifted dramatically, pushing him into a school system that punished instead of understood him. What followed was a painful cycle of exclusion, crime, and incarceration—what David calls his “university of crime.”

But the heart of this episode lies in David’s turning point. Facing a life-or-death crossroads in 2015, he chose transformation. A late ADHD diagnosis unlocked clarity, helping him make sense of decades of impulsivity, restlessness, and struggle. From his final prison sentence emerged a new purpose: advocacy. David built a personal blueprint for change and now works with policymakers to champion neurodivergent individuals navigating the justice system.

This episode is a raw, redemptive story about identity, trauma, and the power of being truly understood. It’s a reminder that even after years in the dark, transformation is possible—and that lived experience can become one of the strongest tools for change.

In this latest episode of "Too Light Too Dark," host Leon Eckford and guest Simon Binns delve into the intricate themes of masculinity and vulnerability. They explore how colonial history has shaped emotional expression, particularly within Caribbean families, and discuss the challenges men face in today's world regarding mental health and emotional openness.

We discuss how societal norms shape manhood, why emotional openness is essential for well-being, and how reclaiming healthy masculinity can transform relationships, communities, and self-perception. This episode offers insight, storytelling, and thought-provoking dialogue for anyone ready to challenge stereotypes and embrace a more inclusive, holistic view of manhood.

Music by www.instagram.com/ali_jaguareyes

Episode 15 of Too Light Too Dark features an inspiring and brutally honest conversation with U.S. military veteran, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker Donald Dunn.

In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of military life, transitioning out of service, building resilience, and rediscovering purpose after the uniform comes off.

Donald shares his journey from deployment to civilian life—including the challenges, the dark moments, the unexpected lessons, and the powerful mindset shifts that helped him rebuild his identity, launch a successful business, and step into veteran advocacy.

If you’re a veteran, an active-duty service member, or someone navigating a major life transition, this episode offers raw truth, practical tools, and real hope.

You can find more about Donald and his work here

Listen now:
https://open.spotify.com/show/6Y5oqhA2uXQ6nEYPmDl0Fz?si=d688027e38de4d78 Spotify

Other platforms & links:

What if you could train your mind to see possibilities where others see problems?
In this episode of Too Light Too Dark, we sat down with Felix Riley, founder of Brilliant Thinking, to explore how changing the way we think can transform the way we live.

Felix shares his insights on creativity, curiosity, and the surprising power of simple ideas that make a big impact. Whether you’re chasing inspiration, seeking clarity, or just want to think a little more brilliantly — this conversation will leave you seeing the world in a new light.

You can catch up with Felix via his website

https://www.felixriley.com/

https://www.brilliant-thinking.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/felix-riley-brilliant-thinking/

His books you can find here

https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/59813/felix-riley

Music for today's episode

https://www.instagram.com/felixrileyetc/