The Brave Front

Embark on a thrilling odyssey into the icy embrace of the Arctic Ocean with Mark Agnew, the European Adventurer of the Year 2023, as he recounts the inspiring story of his quest to kayak the notorious Northwest Passage. In this season finale of The Brave Front, Mark opens up about the gruelling 103-day expedition that not only charted a course through treacherous waters and shifting ice but also navigated the complex currents of human resilience and teamwork. In a fascinating interview, Mark shares intimate details of the record breaking kayaking feat, the mental toll of two failed Atlantic crossings, and the redemptive power of this latest adventure. He takes us through the chilling moments when polar bears roamed dangerously close, the camaraderie that fortified spirits amidst the vast and unforgiving landscape, and the profound sense of accomplishment upon reaching the passage's end—a feat many deemed impossible. As Mark reflects on the journey that has etched his name into the annals of adventure history, he reveals the deeper fulfilment found in shared experiences and the beauty of the natural world. His story is a testament to the idea that true victory lies not in accolades, but in the bonds forged and the personal demons conquered. Show outline: - Mark Agnew's path to becoming European Adventurer of the Year - The physical and psychological demands of navigating the Northwest Passage by kayak - The dynamics of teamwork in extreme conditions - Mark's personal battle with past failures and the quest for redemption - The emotional culmination of the arctic expedition - Life after the adventure: reflections and future aspirations Useful links: - Dive into Mark Agnew's adventures: markagnewadventures.com - Connect with Mark and follow his continuing journey: - Twitter: @MarkAgnewHK - Instagram: @markagnewadventures Share the show: - Help us spread tales of courage by recommending The Brave Front to others - Follow us on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review - Participate in our episode discussions and polls on Spotify Interact with the show: - We're eager to hear about your greatest adventure or team achievements via voice message - Suggest topics or guests for our upcoming season - Visit The Brave Front website for additional inspiring content If Mark's incredible expedition has ignited a spark of adventure within you, or if you recognize the power of perseverance and teamwork in his story, please share this episode with others. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebravefront/message --- FULL TRANSCRIPT --- 📋 Episode Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:35) What's it like to be named European Adventurer of the Year? (06:40) The challenge of The Northwest Passage (11:49) Dealing with the remoteness (15:46) Mental strength of adventurers (19:04) Mark's upbringing and adventure journey (22:47) Mark's relationship with danger (26:19) Ultra running and mental strength (33:26) Two failed Atlantic crossing attempts (44:20) The story of The Northwest Passage (48:27) Team dynamics (55:14) The finish (01:00:40) Being named European Adventurer of the Year (01:05:06) Wrap up

Join us for an epic journey of human endurance and the power of the human spirit with Ben Smith, who defied the impossible by running 401 marathons in 401 days. This episode of The Brave Front is not just about the physical feat of running 10,506.2 miles around the UK, but the deeply personal story of a man who faced relentless bullying, struggled with his identity, and survived attempts on his own life, only to find redemption and purpose through running. Ben shares the raw and emotional tale of his childhood, the adversities that shaped him, and the transformative experience of the 401 Challenge that led him to raise an astonishing £330,000 for anti-bullying charities. Discover how, against the backdrop of physical exhaustion, Ben found solace in the running community, inspiring over 13,500 individuals to join him, some for their very first marathon. With every mile, Ben's story unravels lessons about resilience, the importance of seeking help, and the courage to live authentically. Today, the 401 Foundation continues to impact lives, proving that one man's brave front can become a beacon of hope for many. Show outline: - Ben Smith's harrowing childhood and battle with bullying - The life-changing moment of a transient ischemic attack at 29 - The journey of self-discovery and coming to terms with his sexuality - The birth of the 401 Challenge and its astounding success - The emotional toll and aftermath of completing the marathons - The ongoing work of the 401 Foundation and future plans Useful links: - Learn about the 401 Foundation and its mission: the401foundation.co.uk - Follow Ben and the 401 Challenge Foundation: - Instagram: @the401challenge - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the401challenge Share the show: - Spread the word about The Brave Front and help amplify men's mental health awareness - Leave a review and follow us on your favorite podcast platform - Engage with our episode questions and polls on Spotify Interact with the show: - Share your own experiences with bullying or marathons via voice message - Get in touch to suggest topics or guests for future episodes - Visit The Brave Front website for more inspirational content If Ben's incredible saga strikes a chord with you or you know someone who could draw strength from his story, share this episode and help us continue the conversation. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebravefront/message --- 📋 Episode Chapters (00:00) Introduction (04:20) Welcome Ben (06:26) Ben's childhood and school life (12:42) Ben's suicide attempt, aged 18 (21:21) Turbulent twenties and living a lie (26:54) Life changing moments (32:53) Taking up running (40:34) The 401 Challenge explained (52:03) Finishing the challenge (57:28) The 401 Foundation (01:02:50) Episode question and poll Full transcript: https://thebravefront.blogspot.com/2024/03/episode-14-marathon-man-ben-smiths-401.html

Listen to the remarkable journey of Dudley 'Tal' Stokes, the man who steered the Jamaican bobsleigh team from their underdog status at the 1988 Winter Olympics to a formidable force in the world of winter sports. Tal's story is one that goes beyond the fan-favorite film 'Cool Runnings' and delves into the depths of personal resilience, mental fortitude, and the power of purpose. Join us as we relive the perilous crash that could have ended it all, and discover how Tal, amidst the chaos, formulated a vision that would redefine his team's destiny. From the ashes of a harrowing defeat, we learn how he rallied his team to a top-seed finish against all odds, outperforming nations with resources that dwarfed their own. Tal opens up about his battles with depression, even at the height of his athletic success, and shares the strategies that helped him harness his mental strength. His candid recollection of the challenges faced and the triumphs earned is a testament to the indomitable spirit that defines true champions. Whether you're an underdog in your own life or simply inspired by stories of extraordinary human spirit, this episode is a tribute to the relentless pursuit of dreams against the steepest of odds. Tal's message is clear: with willful ignorance of naysayers, a sharpened edge, and unwavering confidence, the underdog can indeed have its day. Useful links: - Relive the Jamaican bobsled team's historic runs on YouTube via our blog - Connect with Dudley 'Tal' Stokes on social media: X - @Dudley_T_Stokes Insta - @Talsto360live - Watch 'Cool Runnings' on Disney+ in the UK Interact with the show: - Share your underdog stories or suggest topics via voice message - Visit The Brave Front website for more inspiring content - Answer our episode question and poll - Leave us a review If Tal's incredible story resonates with you, or if you know someone who could use a dose of inspiration, share this episode and join us in championing the spirit of the underdog. --- 📋 Episode Chapters (00:04) Welcome and introduction (05:10) Tal's life today (11:07) Tal's mental health over the years (12:56) Depression and performance (15:38) The bobsleigh idea is born (23:47) Sights set on the Olympics (27:23) Expectations going into the 1988 Games (29:51) Mental strength and visualisation (36:04) The crash (43:52) Struggles with depression after Calgary (48:22) The subsequent Winter Olympics (54:04) Tal's happiest memory (56:04) Advice for all underdogs (58:22) Episode question and poll --- Remember to leave us a voice message with your thoughts and stories, and stay tuned for more episodes that bring men's mental health to the spotlight. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebravefront/message --- FULL TRANSCRIPT

In this episode we tackle one of the often-overlooked challenges of professional sport and mental health. Join us as we sit down with Rob Young MBE, Chief Executive of Switch the Play Foundation, the UK's only charity dedicated to supporting the well-being of professional athletes as they transition to life after their sports careers. Rob tells us about the staggering statistic that over 50% of athletes face mental health challenges within two years of retirement. We delve into why professional athletes, who dedicate their lives to their sport, struggle profoundly when faced with hanging up their boots or stepping off the track. From identity crises to financial instability, the challenges are as diverse as the sports themselves. Rob also shares the vital work of Switch The Play, from mentoring to building peer support networks, and stresses the importance of early intervention. He highlights the unique pressures on athletes to maintain a façade of invulnerability and the cultural shifts needed within sports institutions to prioritise athletes' long-term well-being over short-term performance. Whether you're a sports fan, a concerned family member, or an athlete yourself, this episode offers a crucial look at the silent struggles behind the glory of professional sports and the essential support available to build a life after sport. Show outline: - The stark reality of mental health issues among retired athletes - The personal impact of sports career transitions - The role of Switch The Play in athlete support and prevention - Gender-specific challenges in post-sport life - The importance of planning for life after sports - How listeners can support and engage with athletes facing these transitions Useful links: - Switch the Play Foundation: Learn about the charity's mission and support services - X: Switch The Play: @switch_the_Play - Instagram: @switchtheplayfoundation - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/switchtheplay - Rob on X: @RobYoung78 Share the show: - Recommend The Brave Front to friends and colleagues - Leave a review and follow us on your preferred podcast platform - Engage with our polls and questions on Spotify Interact with the show: - Suggest future topics and guests or come on to the show yourself - Send us your thoughts and stories via voice message If Rob's message strikes a chord with you, or if you know someone navigating the challenging waters of sports retirement, this episode is a must-listen. Share it to support our mission of bringing men's mental health to the forefront. --- ? Episode Chapters (00:00) Introduction to the episode and Rob Young MBE (01:22) The mental health crisis in post-retirement athletes (06:34) Rob's journey to founding Switch the Play (12:15) The importance of identity beyond sports (18:50) The systemic issues in sports culture affecting mental health (24:27) The work of Switch the Play and supporting athletes (30:45) Gender differences in post-sport challenges (35:12) Advice for athletes and how listeners can help (42:05) Rob's vision for the future of athlete support (49:30) Closing thoughts and how to interact with the show --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebravefront/message --- 📋 Episode Chapters (00:38) Episode preview (04:03) Welcome and introduction (05:27) Rob's background (13:20) Are elite sports people wired differently to the rest of us (22:20) Helping athletes prepare for the transition to life after sport (27:49) Breaking routines (32:59) The role of governing bodies (38:40) Are men and women affected differently? (44:18) The role of Switch The Play Foundation (50:59) What can fans do to help? (53:32) Episode wrap up FULL TRANSCRIPT

Peeling back the layers of what it truly means to be a man in today's complex world with Andy Nathan, a men's coach and mentor. Andy's work revolves around guiding men through personal and emotional challenges, helping them to build resilience, foster stronger relationships, and ultimately reach their full potential. But what exactly does a men's coach do, and how does it differ from traditional therapy? Andy sheds light on this and more as we explore the nuances of coaching, the pitfalls of "lone wolfing," and the surprising drawbacks of being the proverbial "nice guy." He also introduces us to the concept of anti-fragility, a step beyond resilience that empowers men to learn and grow from their experiences. In a candid conversation, Andy shares his own transformative journey from a place of trauma and disconnection to one of healing and understanding. He dives into the importance of community for men, the societal shifts affecting different generations, and the critical role fathers play in shaping the future of masculinity. Whether you're a man struggling with the pressure to "man up," someone who feels isolated in the digital age, or simply interested in personal growth, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice. Andy's message is clear: empowerment through community and self-reflection is the key to breaking free from the constraints of outdated masculine stereotypes. Show outline: - Introducing Andy Nathan and the role of a men’s coach - The transformational power of opening up and building community - The challenges of "lone wolfing" and "nice guy syndrome" - Understanding antifragility and its role in personal growth - The impact of societal and cultural shifts on men across generations - How men can step into their power and reach their full potential in 2024 Useful links: - Website: Connect with Andy Nathan and learn about his coaching services - Discover The Man Program and upcoming retreats - @AndyJNathan: Follow Andy on Instagram for insights and free webinars - Listen to Andy's podcast for more discussions on men's growth Share the show: - Help others find The Brave Front by leaving a review and following us on your preferred podcast platform - Engage with us on Spotify and answer our episode questions - Send us your thoughts and stories via voice message - Check out The Brave Front website and blog Interact with the show: - Suggest topics and guests for future episodes by getting in touch - Read the full show transcript If Andy's approach resonates with you or you know someone who could benefit from his expertise, don't hesitate to share this episode. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebravefront/message --- 📋 Episode Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:03) Andy Nathan is a professional men's coach and mentor (04:31) Listen, you're a professional coach and mentor. Tell us a bit about your man program (11:00) Andy's background and story (17:48) From anti-talking to pro-talking (24:31) What are some of the key reasons people come to you for advice (30:16) Issues with male friendships (34:23) What is Nice Guy Syndrome all about? (42:31) Toxic masculinity (51:04) One other thing I wanted to talk to you about is the term antifragility (57:09) Poll: Have being too nice ever held you back or caused anxiety

In this thought provoking episode of The Brave Front, we delve into the complex world of men's mental health and masculinity with the brilliant Toni White, a consultant, writer and speaker specializing in workplace mental wellbeing and the uniformed services. Toni's candid perspective on the relationship between masculinity and mental health sheds light on the silent battles many men face daily. From the fear of vulnerability to the societal pressures of being the "emotional stoic," we chat to her about the nuances that make seeking help a formidable challenge for men. Join us as Toni unpacks the paradox of masculinity in crisis, the stigmas within male-dominated workplaces, and the critical need for listening over mere encouragement to talk. Discover the profound impact of psychological safety, the subtle cries for help masked in banter, and the lifeline that genuine, non-judgmental support can provide. Whether you're a man feeling isolated despite a crowd or someone looking to better understand and support the men in your life, this episode offers a beacon of hope and understanding. Download the episode to hear Toni's personal insights, her mission to provide touch therapy, and her vision for a future where men's mental health is embraced with the compassion it deserves. Show outline: - Introduction to Toni White's expertise and mission - The clash of evolving masculinity and uniformed service trauma - Workplace dynamics in male-dominated fields and their impact on mental health - The silent struggles men face at home and the signs of concealed distress - The transformative power of creating a safe space for men to open up - How to recognize the need for help and take the first step towards support - Toni's future plans to revolutionize men's mental health support and her unique approach to healing Useful links: - Learn more about Toni White and her work: X: Toni (@toniwriter) / X (twitter.com)For our Men - Men's mental and emotional health in the workplace - Read a full transcript of the show. Share the show: - Follow and share The Brave Front on your favorite podcast platform: The Brave Front | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree - Engage with us and answer our episode questions on Spotify Interact with the show: - Send us your thoughts and stories via voice message - Suggest topics and guests for future episodes: Get in touch If Toni's insights have resonated with you or you know someone who could benefit from this conversation, please share this episode and help us spread awareness about men's mental health. --- 📋 Episode Chapters (00:00) Welcome and what's coming up (01:57) Who is Toni White? (04:04) Why Toni ended up specialising in men's mental health (12:32) Toxic masculinity under the microscope (18:16) Barriers preventing men from talking about mental health (27:06) How poor mental health manifests itself at home (32:53) What happens when men are given the chance to talk? (40:15) How can you recognise issues in yourself? (52:23) Toni's hopes and ambitions for the coming year (55:16) What does modern masculinity mean to you? Our poll asks you

A few of the best bits from the early months of The Brave Front. Covering everything from sleep issues and the extreme cold to anxiety, depression, Asperger Syndrome, ADHD and suicidal ideation. Inspirational guests include Alex Staniforth, Francis Benali, Chris Ashworth, Dr Nicholas Peat, Professor Matt Jones, Pete White and Nick Ray. Show outline: 00:03:26 - 00:10:06 - Alex Staniforth 00:10:07 - 00:14:16 - Francis Benali 00:14:17 - 00:18:46 - Chris Ashworth 00:18:47 - 00:23:44 - Professor Matt Jones 00:23:45 - 00:31:10 - Andrew Kingslow 00:31:11 - 00:42:29 - Dr Nicholas Peat 00:42:30 - 00:51:57 - Pete White 00:51:58 - 01:02:20 - Nick Ray Useful links: Link Tree - Find links to all the shows The Brave Front website Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Amazon Music Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on the Spotify episode pageGet in touchSend us a voice messageRead our latest blog posts

Having just completed a year-long 3,000-mile sea kayaking adventure around the coast of Scotland, few understand the mental health benefits of the great outdoors as well as Nick Ray. However, having lived with severe depression for over 30 years and survived a suicide attempt, Nick also has first hand experience of life's darkest times. Today though, he has amassed thousands of social media followers around the globe, all keen to join him for an open and honest conversation about mental health, and to share in the beauty and serenity of one man's sea kayaking adventures. In this inspiring conversation, Nick tells us about the depression demon that follows his every move, the day he decided to jump off a ferry, the emotional reunion with the man who saved his life and the moments of magic that made his 60th-year adventure so special. Show outline: 00:00:06 - 00:05:24: Introduction and coming up 00:05:26 - 00:10:38: Isle of Mull and writing 00:10:39 - 00:15:56: Growing up in Africa 00:15:57 - 00:24:23: Living with depression 00:24:24 - 00:28:38: Depression and relationships 00:28:39 - 00:35:28: Suicide attempt and meeting rescuer 00:35:29 - 00:44:23: Sea kayaking adventure begins 00:44:24 - 00:48:38: Living a simple life 00:48:39 - 00:55:38: Highlights of the trip and the future Useful links: Find Nick on X: Nick Ray (@LifeAfloat) / X (twitter.com) Find Nick on Instagram: Instagram Find Nick on Facebook: Facebook Sources of Support for depression and suicidal thoughts: Samaritans: Samaritans is there for everyone, whatever they may be going through: Call 116 123 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) Mind: Mind offers information and support to anyone living with a mental health problem or supporting someone who is: Call 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm Monday-Friday, closed on bank holidays) CALM - Campaign Against Living Miserably Charity offering advice and support, including lots of useful resources.:  Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Amazon Music Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on the Spotify episode page Get in touch Send us a voice message Read our latest blog posts Full transcription:Click HERE to read the full show transcript: https://thebravefront.blogspot.com/2023/12/ep-8-living-with-depression-and.html

Former RAF communications specialist, Pete White, lives with PTSD after the horrors he witnessed while serving in Afghanistan. Today, however, he is a successful children's author who is using his experiences to help children to understand their own emotions, as well as those of their parents. Speaking from the heart, in this episode of The Brave Front Pete tells us about a journey with his mental health that has seen him diagnosed with psychosis and driven to the point of suicide, as well as how an inspired night of writing has helped to turn his life around. We've also got a copy of Pete's first book, The Anxious Knight, to give away. Simply subscribe to the show, leave us a review and click on this link to enter: https://tr.ee/JJa6a0EeM_ Show outline: 00:00:05 - 00:04:22: Welcome, introduction and coming up 00:04:23 - 00:10:36: Writing as a therapy 00:10:37 - 00:14:54: Joining the armed services 00:14:55 - 00:19:15: Camp Bastian and casualty reporting 00:19:16 - 00:21:56: The armed services mentality 00:21:57 - 00:30:40: The fly sniper and the impact of seeing death up close 00:30:41 - 00:41:31: Going down hill, psychosis and brink of suicide 00:41:32 - 00:45:05: Diagnosed with PTSD 00:45:06 - 00:54:27: Writing children’s books and feeling proud 00:54:28 - 00:55:31: Win a copy of The Anxious Knight Useful links: Buy Pete’s books on Amazon here: Amazon.co.uk: Pete White: books, biography, latest update Enchanted Kingdom, Pete’s website: Home - Enchanted Kingdom (enchanted-kingdom.com) Pete’s mental health consulting business: Home - (petewhiteconsulting.co.uk) Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Amazon Music Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on the Spotify episode page Get in touch Send us a voice message Read our latest blog posts Full transcription: Click HERE to read the full show transcript: https://thebravefront.blogspot.com/2023/12/ep-7-from-war-zone-to-writing-how.html

After his world was turned upside down following a life changing physical health diagnosis, Dr Nicholas Peat found his mental health challenged like never before. Having lived with Asperger Syndrome his whole life, the GP and father of two found professional and personal life almost impossible. On the brink of suicide, it took previously untapped personal strength and the help of professionals to turn his life around.  Today, having committed to brave lifestyle choices and with the help and support of his family, he is keen to help others facing challenges to their physical and mental health. Show outline: 00:00:06 - 00:04:27 - Welcome and introduction 00:04:29 - 00:07:05 - Nicholas’s background 00:07:06 - 00:12:20 - Mental health in the medical profession 00:12:21 - 00:20:42 - Being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease 00:20:43 - 00:27:40 - Mental health impact of serious health issues 00:27:41 - 00:34:48 - Low point and affect on Nicholas’s Asperger’s 00:34:49 - 00:48:07 - Living with Asperger’s 00:48:08 - 00:53:40 - Looking to the future Useful links: Dr Nicholas Peat’s business website: Uniquely Created U | Health & Nutrition (ucunutrition.com) The Brave Front website: The Brave Front Samaritans⁠… - Call 116 123 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) - https://www.samaritans.org/  ⁠Mind ⁠- Call 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm Mon-Fri) - https://www.mind.org.uk/  App: ⁠StayAlive ⁠- provides quick access to crisis helplines, support and guidance - https://www.stayalive.app/ App: ⁠distrACT ⁠- provides techniques and advice on avoiding self-harm or suicidal thoughts - https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/distract/id1225176329 Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Amazon Music Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on the Spotify episode page Get in touch Send us a voice message Read our latest blog posts Full transcription:Click HERE to read the full show transcript: https://thebravefront.blogspot.com/2023/11/ep6-coping-with-life-changing-health.html

Successful music producer, Andrew Kingslow, has worked alongside music royalty including John Legend and BB King. However, throughout his illustrious career he has struggled with anxiety and depression, eventually receiving a diagnosis of autism as an adult. In our exclusive interview, Andrew tells us how he masked his autism from the world, overcame a host of personal demons and took the brave step to seek support. And today, as an ambassador for the neurodivergent community across the music industry, he talks about his hope to help others to overcome the challenges and barriers that he faced.  Show outline: 00:00:07 - 00:03:05 - Introduction and sneak preview 00:03:06 - 00:11:20 - Andrew’s career - from John Legend to Rastamouse 00:12:54 - 00:17:34 - Working as ‘the Neuro Muso’ 00:17:45 - 00:30:54 - Living with autism and being diagnosed as an adult 00:30:55 - 00:36:34 - The lowest point and climbing out 00:36:35 - 00:44:15 - Changing the music industry 00:44:16 - 00:49:05 - Looking to the future Useful links: Answer Andrew’s survey: Electric Pineapple And The London Autism Group Charity Survey: https://tinyurl.com/nd-musicians  Andrew Kingslow, the Neuro Muso website: https://theneuromuso.godaddysites.com/  London Autism Group Charity: https://www.londonautismgroupcharity.org/  Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Amazon Music Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on the Spotify episode page Get in touch Send us a voice message

The quality of our sleep is central to our mental wellbeing, but the relationship between the two is complex. Professor of Neuroscience at Bristol University, Matt Jones, spends his days analysing other people’s nights, so we spoke to him to find out more about the science behind sleep and its impact on mental health. From grumpy mornings and insomnia, to bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and PTSD, the amount we sleep could impact our every waking moment. Finding the answer to a perfect night’s sleep, meanwhile, could be as simple, as a siesta in a hammock. Make yourself a cocoa and settle down for a dreamlike Episode 4. Show outline: 00:00:07 - 00:02:18 - Welcome to the episode 00:04:56 - 00:11:15 - Why do we need a good night’s sleep? 00:11:27 - 00:21:44 - Sleep and mental health 00:21:51 - 00:28:41 - Talking and other possible ways to improve sleep 00:28:42 - 00:31:14 - The power nap 00:31:08 - 00:38:34 - Sleep hygiene, exercise and racing thoughts 00:38:35 - 00:45:00 - Sleep changes with age and future studies Useful links: Professor Matt Jones - University of Bristol profile: Professor Matt Jones - Our People (bristol.ac.uk) The science of Sleep with Matt Jones - YouTube: https://youtu.be/J9cVSnCVzbk?si=rQ3FzJNSsGl0Du27 Why can’t I sleep? The benefits of good sleep hygiene | Wellcome Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Amazon Music Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on the Spotify episode page Get in touch Send us a voice message Full Transcript: Click here: https://midlifeonearth.com/2023/10/23/the-brave-front-episode-4-how-sleep-affects-mental-health/

According to Wim Hof, the Ice Man, our physical and mental wellbeing benefits from routine exposure to the extreme cold. Through learning how to breathe, he says, we can control our anxiety and our body's reaction to panic. To find out more about how we can all benefit from rethinking the simple act of breathing, and re-evaluating our relationship with the cold, we speak to Chris Ashworth, a Level 2 Wim Hof Method instructor and ice bath regular. Please remember to consult your GP and to do your research before attempting any kind of exposure to the cold as it is not without its risks. Show outline: 00:00:07 - 00:03:58 - Welcome to the episode 00:03:59 - 00:09:12 - Ash’s background and breath journey 00:09:54 - 00:16:49 - Why we’re all breathing incorrectly 00:17:55 - 00:31:17 - Wim Hof, the cold and what to expect 00:31:23 - 00:48:21 - How to try it for yourself Useful links: Official Wim Hof Method website: https://www.wimhofmethod.com/ Wim Hof YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/user/wimhof1 Breath Is The Bridge - Chris Ashworth’s website https://www.breathisthebridge.co.uk/ Chris Ashworth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathisthebridge/ Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0EMdA8CtAeeiEt5TXExZ4Z Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-brave-front-time-to-talk-about-mens-mental-health/id1702316026 Google Podcasts https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9lNGUxOTBiYy9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Amazon Music https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/d08abd4a-5bb0-418d-965f-5625b7ca1981/the-brave-front---time-to-talk-about-men's-mental-health Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on the Spotify episode page - https://open.spotify.com/show/0EMdA8CtAeeiEt5TXExZ4Z Get in touch - https://tr.ee/hBFVwL17aK Send us a voice message - https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebravefront/message Full transcription: Click HERE to read the full show transcript. - https://midlifeonearth.com/2023/10/09/the-brave-front-episode-3-wim-hof-breathing-and-the-cold/

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In the UK, men are three times more likely to die from suicide than women, with those aged 40-49 having the highest suicide rate of all. Men are also more likely to develop alcohol dependency and use illegal drugs, and far less likely to access mental health support. So, in this bonus episode of The Brave Front, we caught up with Darren Edwards from Andy’s Man Club - a charity that offers men all over the UK a safe space to come to terms with the issues affecting their mental wellbeing - to talk about the options available to those worried for themselves, or someone else .  Useful links: If you are at a point of crisis and need some support, here are some places you can turn to today:  ⁠Andy's Man Club⁠ Samaritans⁠… - Call 116 123 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)  ⁠Mind ⁠- Call 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm Mon-Fri)  App: ⁠StayAlive ⁠- provides quick access to crisis helplines, support and guidance  App: ⁠distrACT ⁠- provides techniques and advice on avoiding self-harm or suicidal thoughts Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Amazon Music Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on the Spotify episode page Get in touch Send us a voice message

Having spent 20 years on the books at Southampton Football Club, Francis 'Franny' Benali has rightly earned ‘legend’ status amongst Saints fans.  Since retiring, however, he has gone on to raise over £1.4million for charity by undertaking three ultra endurance challenges that pushed his mind and body beyond breaking point. In our exclusive interview, Franny talks about the mental strength needed to dedicate yourself to football and to take on seemingly impossible challenges.  Convinced that there is something we can all learn by living outside of our comfort zone, his advice could help us all to reconsider what we value and how we view our own mental wellbeing. Show outline: 00:00:00 - 00:03:41 - Welcome and introduction 00:03:46 - 00:12:07 - Becoming a grandad and early childhood 00:12:08 - 00:19:48 - Determination to succeed 00:20:00 - 00:30:14 - Highs and lows 00:30:21 - 00:44:27 - Life after football 00:44:29 - 00:56:12 - The challenge that broke me 00:56:13 - 00:58:46 - Outside your comfort zone Useful links: Francis Benali MBE official website Franny’s Facebook Franny’s Twitter Franny’s Instagram Franny’s LinkedIn Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Amazon Music Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on the Spotify episode page Get in touch Send us a voice message Full transcription:Click HERE to read the full show transcript.

A motivational speaker, charity founder, endurance athlete and all round nice guy, it’s hard to believe that Alex Staniforth has battled poor mental health his whole life. Bullied at school after being diagnosed with epilepsy and living with a lifelong stammer, he has lived with anxiety and depression, as well as enduring panic attacks and battling an eating disorder. However, a teenage passion for the outdoors provided Alex with a focus and drive that twice took him to Everest in pursuit of a dream to become one of the youngest Britons ever to climb the world’s tallest mountain. Along the way, he was challenged physically and mentally, at home and under tragic circumstances while in Nepal. Today, Alex continues to challenge himself in the most extreme of ways and has ploughed his considerable energies into founding a charity to help others overcome poor mental health, by taking them up some of the UK’s most challenging mountains. Alex’s story is one of passion and determination, of facing fear, overcoming adversity and discovering unexpected mental strength. Listen to it in his own words on The Brave Front. Show outline: 00:00:00 - 00:03:45 - Welcome and introduction 00:03:53 - 00:07:17 - Meet Alex 00:07:53 - 00:13:29 - Childhood, growing up, facing bullying at school 00:13:38 - 00:18:00 - Discovering the great outdoors, a paragliding breakthrough 00:18:10 - 00:33:49 - Stepping outside your comfort zone, Mount Everest, escaping death 00:33:58 - 00:40:00 - Mind Over Mountains, launching a mental health charity 00:40:26 - 00:48:06 - Alex’s mental health today and the future Useful links: You can find out more about Alex on his website You can follow Alex on X As well as on Instagram And you can find out all about Alex’s charity on the excellent Mind over Mountains website. Share the show: If you’ve enjoyed this episode of The Brave Front, you can share it through any of the following links: Our Linktree site (for links to all the podcast platforms): linktr.ee/thebravefront  Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Amazon Music Interact with the show: Answer our episode question on your mobile via Spotify app episode page Get in touch Send us a voice message Full transcription: Click here for a full transcription of the show