The Blokes Psychology Podcast

Dr Chris & Breaking the Cycle: Trauma, Mindfulness and Community Healing

Host Craig sits down with Psychiatrist and mindfulness trainer Dr Chris Walsh to define trauma, its long-term psychological effects, and how it can pass between generations. They discuss links between trauma and substance use, moral injury, and the need for community and cultural rituals to restore safety and belonging. Clinical approaches covered include EMDR and trauma-sensitive mindfulness techniques. The episode offers practical insights for individuals and communities seeking recovery and points listeners to mindfulrepresentations.com for more information.

The Psychology of Addiction: Why It’s Not About Willpower or Weakness

What is addiction really? In this episode, psychologist Jeremiah Belina explains why addiction is often a response to emotional pain rather than a lack of willpower. Craig and Jeremiah discuss trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, shame, and the signs of problematic use, as well as practical steps toward recovery and self-compassion.

From the AFL Field to the Frontline of Youth Mental Health

In this episode, Craig sits down with Fergus Watts, Chairman of the Reach Foundation and former AFL player, for a powerful conversation about identity, purpose, and the moments that shape who we become. If you’re curious about leadership grounded in character, or the power of helping young people understand who they are, this episode is well worth a listen.

When Tradies Talk: The HALT Story with Jeremy Forbes

The Blokes Psychology Podcast is back with another powerful conversation, this time with Jeremy Forbes, founder of HALT – Hope Assistance Local Tradies. In this episode, Craig sits down with Jeremy to unpack the story behind HALT, his own personal mental health journey, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Jeremy shares openly about what it was like to face his own struggles and how his experience of losing a friend to suicide inspired him to start HALT, a grassroots initiative that has grown into a nationwide movement. Together, Craig and Jeremy explore: * Why community-led initiatives are so important in suicide prevention and mental health * How stigma still shows up in tradie communities and what’s helping to shift the culture * Practical ways to support a mate who might be struggling, including what to say (and what not to say) * The ripple effect that happens when workplaces, families, and communities get involved This is a raw, insightful conversation that cuts through the surface-level awareness campaigns and dives into what really makes a difference — connection, honesty, and community.

What is therapy really like? feat. Psych Andrew Hall

We’re excited to announce the return of the Blokes Psychology Podcast – a space where we have real conversations about mental health, wellbeing and growth. This season, the podcast will be hosted by Craig Hyde-Smith, one of our psychologists here at Blokes. Craig is passionate about making mental health conversations approachable, practical, and relevant for men, and he’s excited to bring fresh voices and insights to the show. For our first episode back, Craig sat down with Andrew Hall, another psychologist at Blokes, to talk about what therapy is really like. Many people imagine therapy as lying on a couch while someone silently takes notes, but the reality is often very different. In this episode, Craig and Andrew demystify the process of therapy, unpack common misconceptions, and explore how it actually works in practice. They also dive into some of the stigma that still surrounds seeking support, particularly for men, and share insights into what helps break down those barriers. The goal? To make therapy less intimidating and more approachable for anyone who might be considering it.