🎙️ Episode 51: Sharing the Weight with Andy Baines-Vosper 🎙️

In this moving episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney is joined by Andy Baines-Vosper, a husband, father, and passionate mental health advocate on a mission to inspire one million people to help him "share the weight." Andy's story is a testament to the power of vulnerability, connection, and the strength found in asking for help.

About the Guest:

Andy Baines-Vosper: Andy has faced numerous challenges throughout his life, including drug addiction, infertility, burnout, depression, and suicidal thoughts. For years, he carried these invisible burdens alone, until he reached a turning point where he recognised that asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a life-saving strength. Today, Andy uses his personal experiences and his symbolic 24.7kg “Bag of Worries” to open up vital conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.

The weight of the bag serves as a reminder of the emotional burdens many carry silently, as well as the constant support available through the Samaritans' 24/7 service. Whether running marathons or speaking to communities, Andy’s mission is clear: to normalise seeking help, crush stigma, and foster connection.

In addition to his advocacy, Andy is a Samaritans Volunteer, HIM Fertility Male Support Group Facilitator, and a Trustee for Inspire UK. In his professional role, he is a Senior Project Manager for Samaritans’ email service, ensuring thousands have access to life-changing emotional support.

What to Expect in This Episode:

Andy shares his powerful journey of overcoming life’s heaviest burdens and how he turned his struggles into a mission to inspire others. He discusses the symbolism of his 24.7kg bag and how it sparks crucial conversations about mental health. Andy also opens up about his work with Samaritans, his role in male fertility support, and the life-changing impact of asking for help.

Key Topics:

• The significance of the 24.7kg “Bag of Worries”
• Andy’s journey through addiction, infertility, and depression
• Why asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness
• The importance of normalising conversations about mental health
• Suicide prevention and the work of Samaritans
• Andy’s advocacy for male mental health and fertility issues
• How vulnerability creates powerful human connections

Join Us:

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt the weight of emotional burdens or wants to understand the importance of vulnerability and connection. Andy’s inspiring story reminds us that no one has to carry their struggles alone and that asking for help can be the first step toward healing.

🔗 Links: https://www.truuman.io

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andybvosper/

https://www.instagram.com/lewishackney/

https://www.instagram.com/sharetheweight247/

🎙️ Episode 45: Unlocking Emotional Fitness with James Hawes 🎙️

In this insightful episode of the Truuman Podcast, host Lewis Hackney sits down with James Hawes, a leading psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, who has dedicated his career to empowering boys and men to develop emotional resilience and fitness. James's journey into this specialised field has seen him author The Secret Lives of Men – Ten Keys to Unlock the Mystery, a book that delves into understanding men’s inner worlds based on his extensive work with thousands of male clients.

About the Guest: James Hawes: James is a seasoned psychotherapist and supervisor specialising in supporting boys and men in understanding and navigating their emotional landscapes. His work includes managing a busy private practice, working in schools, and developing therapeutic programs and workshops focused on themes like anger, shame, intimacy, and emotional strength. Over the years, he has founded programs like SHOUT, an anger awareness group, Circles of Men, a support group, and CONTACT, a rites of passage initiative designed to guide boys in understanding masculinity and self-identity.

What to Expect in This Episode: In this episode, James shares his approach to helping men and boys build emotional fitness, break down internal barriers, and foster healthier relationships. He discusses how men often struggle with societal pressures to suppress emotions and the transformative power of creating spaces where they can express and understand these feelings. James also introduces listeners to the keys from his book, The Secret Lives of Men, offering insights into the complex emotional lives many men experience in silence.

Key Topics: The importance of emotional fitness for men and boys

James’s experiences working with men’s anger, shame, and intimacy

Insights from The Secret Lives of Men and its Ten Keys

The SHOUT anger awareness group and its impact

The significance of rites of passage for boys, as facilitated by CONTACT

The role of community and support in men’s emotional growth Training therapists to work effectively with male clients

Join Us: This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in men’s mental health, emotional resilience, and creating supportive spaces for men and boys. James Hawes’s approach is both compassionate and practical, providing tools to better understand men’s unique mental health needs. His story and expertise remind us of the profound impact that emotional awareness and community can have on mental well-being.

🔗 Links:

https://www.truuman.io

https://www.instagram.com/lewishackney

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-r-hawes/

https://x.com/jamesrhawes

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1916279007?pf_rd_r=J98NF1AGJ2FB9E4WYXMB&pf_rd_p=6e878984-68d5-4fd2-b7b3-7bc79d9c8b60&pd_rd_r=bdc038e5-5dcc-4dee-9f71-8f763282ac09&pd_rd_w=EMxmG&pd_rd_wg=LrgDB&ref_=pd_gw_unk

synergycounselling.com

In this episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney talks with mental health advocate Paddy Crump, a powerful voice for change in the UK’s mental health landscape. Known for his passionate commitment to improving mental health policy, Paddy has partnered with charities like YoungMinds and Mind to lead impactful campaigns, including a landmark open letter to Downing Street demanding a dedicated mental health minister. Paddy’s journey is one of turning personal challenges with mental illness into fuel for societal change.

About the Guest:

Paddy Crump: Paddy is a young, dynamic mental health campaigner with a focus on reshaping mental health policy and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness. Drawing from his lived experience with OCD and anxiety, which he has managed since his early teens, Paddy uses his insight to advocate for meaningful reforms that promote a compassionate, effective approach to mental health in the UK. Paddy’s work with YoungMinds as a youth campaigner includes collaboration with a diverse group of advocates and partnering with national brands like M&S to encourage more supportive mental health policies and practices.

What to Expect in This Episode:

In this conversation, Paddy shares the personal experiences that inspired his advocacy work and his journey from mental health blogging to collaborating with national charities. He delves into his role as a youth campaigner for YoungMinds, his efforts to influence UK mental health policy, and his commitment to making mental health support more accessible and stigma-free. Paddy also discusses the importance of involving young people in policy decisions and his vision for a more compassionate mental health landscape.

Key Topics:

• Paddy’s journey from personal struggle to mental health advocacy
• His campaign with YoungMinds and Mind to promote change in mental health policy
• The open letter to Downing Street calling for a mental health minister
• Working with young people to drive policy change and reduce stigma
• Collaborations with national brands to promote supportive mental health practices
• The role of lived experience in mental health advocacy and policy change

Join Us:

This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in mental health reform, youth advocacy, and the importance of lived experience in shaping compassionate policies. Paddy Crump’s story is a testament to the power of personal experience in driving social change, and his insights offer hope for a better mental health future.

🔗 Links:

https://truuman.io/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paddy-crump-46b4a3257

https://www.linkedin.com/company/campaign-for-mental-health-minister/

https://www.instagram.com/paddy.crump/

🎙️ Episode 43: Time to Talk with Alex Holmes🎙️

In this insightful episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney sits down with Alex Holmes, a trailblazer in men’s mental health advocacy. Alex is the Founder of the Time To Talk Project, a consultancy dedicated to enhancing mental fitness and resilience, especially for men and marginalized communities. Alex’s mission is to transform the way men handle stress and mental health, fostering a culture of openness and intentional living through his work with individuals, organisations, and communities.

About the Guest: Alex Holmes is a mental health consultant, therapist, and coach whose work focuses on helping men develop mental fitness and cultivate intentional, fulfilling lives. In 2021, Alex published his first book, Time To Talk: How Men Think About Love, Belonging and Connection, a powerful exploration into men’s mental health and relationships. He is also the host of the Time To Talk Podcast, where he dives into themes of books, mental health, and therapy, sparking meaningful discussions on the challenges men face. In 2024, he launched the Time To Talk Project, a mental health consultancy that provides therapy, coaching, and workshops with a particular focus on supporting Black men in managing stress and improving mental health outcomes at work, home, and in their communities. His work with businesses also empowers leaders to address mental health more effectively within their teams.

What to Expect in This Episode: In this episode, Alex shares his journey from mental health struggles to becoming a respected voice in men’s mental wellness. He discusses the origins of the Time To Talk Project, his motivations for focusing on mental fitness, and the critical need for open conversations among men. Alex also dives into the intersection of men’s mental health, leadership, and intentional living, sharing insights from his book and podcast on how men can redefine success and belonging in a modern, high-stress world.

Key Topics:

- The founding and mission of the Time To Talk Project

- How mental fitness can transform men’s well-being and relationships

- Insights from Time To Talk: How Men Think About Love, Belonging and Connection

- Strategies for businesses to improve leadership and mental health support

- The impact of open conversations around mental health in disadvantaged communities

- Exploring the Time To Talk Podcast and its role in mental health advocacy

Join Us: This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in mental health, personal growth, or the well-being of men in their communities. Alex Holmes is a champion for open dialogue, and his work is helping redefine masculinity and mental fitness for a new generation.

🔗 Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/byalexholmes/

https://alexholmes.co/

https://megaphone.link/NSR9862006253

Keywords: TRUUMAN Podcast, Alex Holmes, Time To Talk Project, men’s mental health, mental fitness, intentional living, Time To Talk book, Time To Talk Podcast.

Prepare for a conversation that tackles stress, mental fitness, and the importance of community for men’s mental well-being. Listen now!

In this episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney sits down with Lau Ciocan, a TEDx speaker and the visionary Founder of Mentoring Advocacy Network (MAN). Lau’s work is center on raising awareness about men's mental health and promoting healthy expressions of masculinity. Through his public speaking, webinars, and The Mentality Podcast, Lau has become a powerful voice for change, tackling tough conversations around men’s mental well-being and societal expectations of masculinity.

About the Guest: Lau Ciocan: Lau is the founder of the Mentoring Advocacy Network (MAN), a platform committed to breaking down stereotypes and encouraging open dialogue on men’s mental health. His dedication has earned him nominations for the Future Leader Award, while MAN was shortlisted for the Best Men's Health Initiative by the InsideOut Awards in both 2023 and 2024. As a TEDx speaker, Lau brings a fresh perspective on how men can redefine masculinity in a way that fosters emotional well-being and healthy relationships. His passion for this work is clear through his ongoing projects, including The Mentality Podcast, where he dives deep into issues affecting men today.

What to Expect in This Episode: In this episode, Lau shares his personal journey that led him to found MAN and his motivation to create spaces for men to express their emotions and discuss mental health openly. He delves into the challenges men face in dealing with societal pressures, and how embracing vulnerability is key to breaking down harmful stereotypes. Lau also talks about the success of MAN and the recognition it has received, highlighting the importance of initiatives focused on men’s well-being.

Key Topics: The creation and mission behind Mentoring Advocacy Network (MAN) The stigma surrounding men’s mental health and how to break it Lau's experiences as a TEDx speaker and the impact of his message Insights from The Mentality Podcast Lau’s vision for a healthier approach to masculinity MAN’s recognition at the InsideOut Awards and what it means for the future of men’s health

Join Us: If you’re passionate about mental health and changing the conversation around masculinity, this episode is a must-listen. Lau Ciocan’s work is at the forefront of the movement to promote healthier masculinities and support men in their mental health journeys.

Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5rH7FweCSwHIOUFlIr9kAP?si=893dfc92df1e4300

Website: www.manmentoring.org.uk

Linked In: www.linkedin.com/company/man-mentoring/

TEDx talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RM273lHT2tw

In this inspiring episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney is joined by Scott Johnson, the founder of The Proper Blokes Club.

What began as a simple Facebook page in September 2020 has now evolved into a growing community that provides a safe space for men to walk, talk, and share their mental health struggles. Scott’s mission is clear: to break down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and offer them a sense of connection and support.

About the Guest: Scott Johnson: Scott is the founder of The Proper Blokes Club (TPBC), a mental health initiative that started with just a few videos of him walking around his favourite local spots, opening up about his own personal struggles. His honesty and vulnerability resonated with local men, and it didn’t take long for TPBC to gain traction. Today, the club operates in three London locations—Southwark, Greenwich, and Wallington—and Scott has big plans to expand the club to every London Borough by 2025. Scott’s vision goes beyond just walk-and-talk groups for men. He is passionate about working with younger men and boys, helping them develop the tools they need to cope with life’s challenges early on. His goal is to introduce prevention programs and offer walk-and-talk sessions tailored specifically for them.

What to Expect in This Episode: Scott opens up about the origins of The Proper Blokes Club and the personal journey that led him to create this community. He talks about the importance of men having a safe space to be vulnerable and connect with others who are facing similar challenges. Scott shares his long-term goals for TPBC and how he plans to bring his message to men and boys across London and beyond.

Key Topics: The creation and rapid growth of The Proper Blokes Club The importance of men’s mental health and breaking the stigma around it Scott’s personal experiences and how they shaped TPBC How walk-and-talk sessions create a safe space for men to open up Future plans for TPBC’s expansion into all London Boroughs and beyond Scott’s vision for working with younger men to provide prevention and support Join Us: This episode is perfect for anyone interested in mental health, community-building, and grassroots movements that make a real impact. Scott’s passion for helping men find connection and support through simple, meaningful actions is sure to inspire.

🔗 Links:

https://theproperblokesclub.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/theproperblokesclub/

https://www.instagram.com/the_proper_blokes_club_cic/

https://www.youtube.com/@theproperblokesclub

https://x.com/BlokesClub

In this eye-opening episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney is joined by Matt Keenan, founder of The Anxious Lad Mental Health Company. Matt's inspiring story of overcoming personal struggles with mental health has shaped his journey from near tragedy to becoming a life coach, CBT, NLP, and Hypnosis Practitioner. He now dedicates his life to helping others unlock their full potential, overcome anxiety, and lead fulfilling lives.

About the Guest:

Matt Keenan: Matt is the founder of The Anxious Lad Mental Health Company, a platform built from his own powerful journey through the depths of mental health challenges. Having battled Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Matt was initially misdiagnosed with depression and placed on a medication treadmill that worsened his condition. This struggle ignited a deep passion in him to find better solutions, leading him to retrain in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Hypnotherapy, and Life Coaching.

Now, Matt uses his experience and expertise to help others navigate their mental health journeys, offering personalised coaching and training programs designed to remove limiting beliefs and overcome high-level stress and anxiety. His mission is simple but profound: break the stigma around mental health and provide people with the tools they need to thrive.

What to Expect in This Episode:

Matt opens up about his battle with mental health and shares the pivotal moments that led to the creation of The Anxious Lad. He discusses the importance of accurate diagnosis, the mental health challenges men face, and why it’s so crucial to foster resilience and empathy. Matt also explains how he empowers individuals and companies alike to create mentally healthy environments through personalised coaching, mental health training, and Suicide First Aid workshops.

Key Topics:

• Matt’s personal journey with Generalised Anxiety Disorder and misdiagnosis
• The founding of The Anxious Lad Mental Health Company and its mission
• The role of life coaching, CBT, NLP, and hypnosis in overcoming anxiety and stress
• How Matt’s coaching programs help clients break through limiting beliefs
• Mental health training for individuals and companies
• The critical importance of Suicide First Aid and how to support those in crisis

Join Us:

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health, especially men who often struggle with expressing vulnerability. Matt's work is reshaping the way we approach mental health by fostering resilience, empathy, and practical solutions.

🔗 Links:

In this transformative episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney sits down with Doug Campbell, a Personal Trainer, Certified Nutritionist, and men’s health coach who specialises in helping men double their energy, strength, and confidence by naturally supercharging their testosterone levels. Doug shares his personal journey from burnout and depression to becoming a leader in men’s health, offering insights that can change your life in just 90 days.

About the Guest:

Doug Campbell: Doug’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. On the eve of his 30th birthday, he found himself overweight, anxious, and deeply unhappy despite following the conventional path of success. Desperate for change, Doug embarked on a mission to take control of his health. After months of research, he discovered the secrets to optimising his body and mind. In just 4 months, Doug lost 45 pounds and transformed his life, going on to become a Personal Trainer and Certified Nutritionist.

Today, Doug is in the best shape of his life—physically and mentally—and has helped over 100 men naturally boost their testosterone without steroids, restrictive diets, or endless hours in the gym. His coaching programs are built around personalisation, accountability, community, and knowledge, ensuring incredible, sustainable results.

What to Expect in This Episode:

Doug dives deep into his own struggles with mental and physical health, revealing how he overcame them by focusing on natural testosterone enhancement and a balanced approach to fitness and nutrition. He explains the four pillars of his coaching philosophy and shares practical strategies that men can implement immediately to regain their energy, strength, and confidence.

Key Topics:

• Doug’s journey from burnout and anxiety to optimal health
• The importance of testosterone for men’s health and how to naturally increase it
• The four pillars of Doug’s coaching programs: Personalisation, Accountability, Community, and Knowledge
• How to lose fat, build muscle, and boost mental clarity without strict diets or extreme workouts
• The impact of lifestyle changes on mental health and overall well-being
• Doug’s advice for men looking to regain the vitality they had in their 20s

Join Us:

If you're a man feeling burned out, lacking energy, or struggling to find a sustainable health routine, this episode is for you. Doug Campbell's no-nonsense approach to health and fitness is designed to help you make lasting changes, starting today.

🔗 Links:

https://www.youtube.com/@mr_dougcampbell

https://23pttm1lhgy.typeform.com/to/EyJ5PHSW

https://www.instagram.com/mr_dougcampbell

FREE Testosterone Toolkit

https://spartan-fitness.com/tt

In this insightful episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney sits down with Seb Randle, a seasoned personal performance coach and former media strategist who transitioned from a 20-year career in advertising and communications to helping individuals and teams achieve their full potential. Seb shares his unique approach to personal growth, overcoming self-doubt, and creating lasting change through his business, The Helpful Space.

About the Guest:

Seb Randle: Seb Randle spent two decades excelling in the advertising world, working with major names like ShortList Media and Digital Cinema Media. However, his true calling came to light in 2019 when he retrained as a personal performance coach with The Coaching Academy. He then launched The Helpful Space, a coaching business designed to provide practical and effective strategies for personal and professional growth. Seb’s work focuses on guiding individuals to overcome limiting beliefs, build confidence, and unlock their true value.

In this episode, Seb delves into his career shift and the passion that drives his work. He explains how The Helpful Space offers more than just inspiration—it provides actionable steps for people looking to elevate their lives and careers.

What to Expect in This Episode:

Seb opens up about his transition from media strategist to personal coach and the challenges he faced along the way. He shares his philosophy on personal development, emphasizing the importance of practical solutions over feel-good quotes. Seb also explores how his integrative approach to coaching helps individuals navigate life's challenges, including self-doubt, career changes, and confidence building.

Key Topics:

• Seb’s transition from advertising to coaching
• The founding of The Helpful Space and its mission
• The importance of practical solutions in personal growth
• Overcoming self-doubt and limiting beliefs
• How to set goals and build confidence in personal and professional life
• Strategies for long-term change and resilience

Join Us:

This episode is perfect for anyone looking to make a significant change in their life, whether personal or professional. Seb Randle’s story is one of transformation, and his insights will leave you with practical tools to help you take the next step in your journey.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/seb-randle-2787b412/

https://www.instagram.com/thehelpfulspace/

https://linktr.ee/TheHelpfulSpace

In this powerful episode of the TRUUMAN Podcast, host Lewis Hackney welcomes Mark O'Brien, an ex-professional footballer whose life took a dramatic turn after undergoing open-heart surgery nearly two years ago. Mark's journey is one of resilience, courage, and personal growth as he navigated the challenges of his physical health and the emotional toll that followed.

About the Guest: Mark O'Brien: Mark O'Brien is no stranger to challenges. As a former professional footballer, Mark's career was abruptly interrupted when he had to undergo open-heart surgery—a life-changing event that forced him to confront not only his physical limitations but also the profound impact on his mental health. In this episode, Mark opens up about his experiences during this tumultuous period, sharing candidly about the emotional struggles he faced and how he managed to cope with the overwhelming uncertainty. His story is not just about recovery; it's about finding strength in vulnerability and the importance of mental health, especially for men who often struggle to express their emotions.

What to Expect in This Episode: Mark discusses how his life was turned upside down by his heart condition and the subsequent surgery. He delves into the mental health challenges that came with it, including the fear, anxiety, and depression that many people experience in similar situations. Mark also shares the coping strategies that have helped him manage these emotions, and he offers advice on what more men can do to take care of their mental well-being. Key Topics: The impact of open-heart surgery on Mark’s life and career Mark's mental health journey during his recovery The stigma around men expressing vulnerability and emotional struggles Strategies for coping with mental health challenges The importance of seeking help and speaking openly about mental health

Join Us: This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with health challenges, mental health struggles, or those who want to better understand the emotional complexities that come with major life changes. Mark O'Brien's story is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is hope and strength to be found.

🔗 Links: https://www.instagram.com/mobrien1992/ https://x.com/mark_obrien92