Caring Connected Communities: Grassroots Conversations in the Mid Murray

Breaking the Cycle: One Family’s Story of Healing

In this episode, Leah is joined by Geoff, Sarah, and their children, Craig and Chelsea. Together, they share honest and courageous reflections on domestic and family violence, mental health, and the long-lasting impact of trauma. Geoff speaks openly about growing up with violence, the challenges he faced as a young person, and his determination to break the cycle. Sarah shares her own lived experience of domestic violence and the role connection and support played in rebuilding her life. Craig and Chelsea offer thoughtful insights into growing up in a family where openness, communication, and mental wellbeing are prioritised. This conversation highlights the power of lived experience, the importance of community support, and how talking openly about difficult topics can create pathways to healing and hope. If this episode resonates, reach out to someone in your circle, check in on a neighbour, or get involved with the Mid Murray Suicide Prevention Network [https://www.mid-murray.sa.gov.au/community/caring-connected-communities]. And if you need support, please contact: * Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support) * Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 (mental-health support and counselling) You’re not alone — a conversation can change everything. Download a transcript of this episode here [https://drive.google.com/file/d/18xogniOI2GcO8JgTVd0AIUttLIsgAaI1/view?usp=sharing].

Beyond the Mat: Yoga's Role in Emotional and Community Wellbeing

Hosts Mandy and Cathie introduce guest Niya Lee, a local yoga instructor whose practice was born out of personal hardship. Niya shares how yoga helped her through a tumultuous marriage breakup and subsequent legal battles, leading her to advocate for mental health and community well-being through yoga. The conversation explores the benefits of yoga, its applicability to various groups including men and the elderly, and potential collaborations for community wellness events.  If this episode resonates, reach out to someone in your circle, check in on a neighbour, or get involved with the Mid Murray Suicide Prevention Network [https://www.mid-murray.sa.gov.au/community/caring-connected-communities]. And if you need support, please contact: * Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support) * Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 (mental-health support and counselling) You’re not alone — a conversation can change everything. Download a transcript of this episode here [https://drive.google.com/file/d/15wOPD2WI9wVe8wy0W1Si9vD3JVSmnBr0/view?usp=sharing].

Writing in Place: Connection and Community in the Mid Murray

In this episode, Mandy, Helen, Joe, and Cathie from the Mid Murray community discuss their writing journeys, emphasising the shared experiences of living in the Mid Murray region. The conversation covers their diverse writing styles, from poetry to fiction and historical accounts, and delves into the creation of the Scriveners Review, a community journal. They discuss the personal nature of writing, the importance of place, the concept of imposter syndrome, and the potential for community grants to support local literary endeavours. The episode is rounded off with reflections on the therapeutic benefits of writing and the communal value of shared stories. If this episode resonates, reach out to someone in your circle, check in on a neighbour, or get involved with the Mid Murray Suicide Prevention Network [https://www.mid-murray.sa.gov.au/community/caring-connected-communities]. And if you need support, please contact: * Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support) * Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 (mental-health support and counselling) You’re not alone — a conversation can change everything. Download a transcript of this episode here [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WE4_5CXnIxHiIkkBVeGADFHowoL4UNko/view?usp=sharing].

Inside the Men’s Shed: Stories of Connection and Purpose

In this episode, Mike and Bill share what keeps them volunteering, what the Mannum Men’s Shed means to the town, and why connection matters more than ever. Both men arrived in different ways, but landed in the same place: helping out because it feels right, fills the days with purpose, and quietly holds the community together. They talk about the floods, the long history along the river, the odd jobs, the breakfast conversations, the jokes, the rough edges, and the moments that genuinely save lives. They speak plainly about loneliness, ageing, health, mental wellbeing, and what happens when someone simply says, “Glad you’re here.” It’s not fancy. It’s just human. They also reflect on how sheds get started, how young people might be encouraged to step into volunteering, and what keeps a community group strong. If this episode resonates, reach out to someone in your circle, check in on a neighbour, or get involved with the Mid Murray Suicide Prevention Network [https://www.mid-murray.sa.gov.au/community/caring-connected-communities]. And if you need support, please contact: * Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support) * Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 (mental-health support and counselling) You’re not alone — a conversation can change everything. Download a transcript of this episode here [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ANAdeBGZa5uoQNofkamJhjlKMzNPbi5K/view?usp=sharing].

Late Diagnosis, Early Clues: Understanding ADHD Differently

A warm and honest conversation with Simone and Tahleah about living with ADHD, late diagnosis, school experiences, masking, medication, family dynamics, and the relief that comes with finally understanding your own brain. They explore the differences between internalised and externalised symptoms, why so many girls are overlooked, and how understanding ADHD reshapes relationships, self-compassion, and confidence. This episode offers grounded examples, lived-experience wisdom, and plenty of relatable moments for anyone who has ever wondered why things feel harder than they "should." If this episode resonates, reach out to someone in your circle, check in on a neighbour, or get involved with the Mid Murray Suicide Prevention Network [https://www.mid-murray.sa.gov.au/community/caring-connected-communities]. And if you need support, please contact: * Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support) * Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 (mental-health support and counselling) You’re not alone — a conversation can change everything. Download a transcript of this episode here [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IUaK2ptUJz6oiU4bNfbOAqONOZK9AAe-/view?usp=sharing].