Minds on the Mersey Podcast

"Turning Pain into Purpose" Episode 10 with Darryl Craig

In the first section, hosts Finn Roberts (special guest appearance), Sam Roberts and Richie Whelan explore the challenges of remote podcasting, the impact of rising costs on small businesses, and share personal stories including a memorable birthday celebration and a trip to Riga. They also discuss innovative mental health solutions like Sammy the Seal and reflect on the delays in neurodivergent assessments.  In the second section, Darryl Craig shares his inspiring journey from childhood trauma and near-suicide, to founding the Phoenix Project, helping others through lived experience and mental health advocacy. This episode explores trauma, resilience, and the power of authentic connection. Please send your questions, feedback, suggestions, or anything else to  mindsonthemersey@gmail.co.uk [mindsonthemersey@gmail.co.uk] The podcast website is https://www.mindsonthemersey.co.uk [https://www.mindsonthemersey.co.uk] Phoenix Project Website - https://www.fynix.org.uk [https://www.fynix.org.uk] StepChange Debt Charity - https://www.stepchange.org/ [https://www.stepchange.org/] Sammy the Seal - BBC Article - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx219vd5721o?at_campaign=latest_from_your_followed_topics&at_link_origin=for_you_content&at_medium=BBC_Products [https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx219vd5721o?at_campaign=latest_from_your_followed_topics&at_link_origin=for_you_content&at_medium=BBC_Products]  Darryl Craigs book, The Architect of Scars - https://amzn.eu/d/0aJc18kb [https://amzn.eu/d/0aJc18kb]  Jade Roberts Project - https://www.thejaderobertsproject.co.uk/ [https://www.thejaderobertsproject.co.uk/] Sole Survivor PTSD Support - https://ptsdsupport.co.uk/ [https://ptsdsupport.co.uk/]

Episode 9

Finding Joy and Meaning in Life - A Conversation on Mental Health, Football, and Life’s Unpredictability In this episode, Sam and Richie steer away from traditional guest interviews to navigate spontaneous conversations about mental health, life challenges, and joyous moments. They share personal stories, discuss societal issues like assisted dying, and reflect on the importance of community, hobbies, and support systems for mental well-being. The hosts talk about their upcoming break due to holidays and technical difficulties with recording equipment. They explore the importance of hobbies, social connections, and routine breaks for mental health. A heartfelt discussion on the tragic story of a mother traveling to Switzerland for assisted dying after losing her son, and the complex emotions around end-of-life decisions. The significance of community support, reaching out to friends, and breaking the cycle of social isolation. Celebrating Liverpool’s football victories and discussing player transfers, finances, and the emotional impact of the game. Personal anecdotes about birthdays, family, and indulgent food moments, including the memorable discovery of an untouched kebab. The hosts reflect on how small acts, like texting a friend or trying new activities, can positively impact mental health. Light-hearted moments with spicy sauces, food, and promotional plugs for Piggin' Bun fermented sauces. Resources & Links: https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/healthy-mum-56-pays-10000-33835604 [https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/healthy-mum-56-pays-10000-33835604]  https://www.justgiving.com/page/kieo [https://www.justgiving.com/page/kieo]  Connect with Sam and Richie: Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/mindsonthemersey/ [https://www.instagram.com/mindsonthemersey/] Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584932450006 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584932450006] Email – mindsonthemersey@gmail.com [mindsonthemersey@gmail.com] Share your stories or ask questions Note: This episode emphasizes the importance of community, small steps for mental health, and appreciating life’s simple pleasures. Join the conversation, share your experiences, and remember — support is just a message away.

Episode 8 with Sean Butler

Episode 8 Highlights: Mental Health, Community Engagement, and Local Charities Join Sam and Richie in this candid episode as they explore personal journeys with mental health, the importance of community support, and innovative projects like GoWirral aimed at connecting local charities and services. Discover insights into managing mental health challenges, supporting homelessness, and the power of local initiatives to create positive change. Main Topics Covered: Personal experiences with medication, mental health struggles, and the impact of therapy The importance of social connection and community hubs for mental well-being The role of transparency and trust in community services and small businesses Insights into homelessness causes: trauma, social environment, and decision-making The innovative GoWirral app connecting charities, local businesses, and support services Campaigns for mental health awareness in football and other workplaces The importance of early intervention, prevention strategies, and community involvement Resources & Links: GoWirral Official Website Special Campaigns and Donations: Support Kieron Molyneux running the London Marathon for St. Joseph's Hospice: JustGiving - Kieo https://www.justgiving.com/page/kieo [https://www.justgiving.com/page/kieo] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cly9v3534q4o [https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cly9v3534q4o]  This episode emphasizes the importance of community, mental health awareness, and local support structures. For actionable insights, share your experiences and join the conversation!

Episode 7 with Sarah Waltman

Episode 7 with special guest Sarah Waltman  In this candid episode, Sam and Richie open up about their personal mental health journeys, the challenges of medication, and the crucial need for support and understanding. Tune in for real talk and practical advice on navigating tough times. In section two, Sam and Richie welcome Sarah Waltman from Hummingbird Holistic Therapies CIC. Sarah shares her story of overcoming domestic violence through energy healing and Reiki. She provides insights into cord cutting and energy web theory to manage emotional burdens and discusses the development of the Humminbird Holistic Family Hub and its holistic service offerings. Strategies for working with both survivors and perpetrators to break the cycle of violence are explored, along with the role of mental health, hormone testing, and social support in holistic recovery. The importance of community collaboration, funding, and resource sharing across charities is emphasized, along with future plans for a rehab center to rehabilitate medium and high risk offenders. Practical tips for parenting, emotional intelligence, and preventing social isolation are shared, along with personal anecdotes, humor, and encouragement to take actionable steps. Join the movement to break cycles, empower survivors, and foster community resilience. Whether through holistic therapies, education, or collaboration, every effort counts in transforming lives. Main Topics: * Personal experiences with mental health challenges and stigma * The impact of medication, ADHD, and antidepressants * The role of social media and online interactions in mental well-being * Strategies for managing mental health and seeking support * Promoting community, openness, and kindness Resources & Links: * Samaritans [https://www.samaritans.org/] - Free confidential emotional support * Text Crisis Line [https://www.samaritans.org/about-us/contact-us/phone-our-crisis-text-line/] - Support via text message * Benzodiazepine information [https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/benzodiazepines/] - About medications Richie mentions * Self-help strategies for mental health [https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/] Connect with Sam & Richie: * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/mindsonthemersey] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584932450006] * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@minds.on.the.mers?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc] * Email: minesonthemersey@gmail.com [minesonthemersey@gmail.com] Note: Remember, it's okay not to be okay. Reach out, talk to someone, and support each other.

Episode 6 with special guest Jess Trigg

It's a landmark occasion as we are now a video podcast! In this episode, Sam and Richie dive into a variety of engaging topics — from updates on their Mersey Mind Project and its upcoming charity football match at Prenton Park, to reflections on football legends, the rising costs of sports apparel, and their adventures abroad. They also share personal stories, discuss the impact of football on mental health, and explore everyday challenges like card fees and inflation. They talk about * Upcoming Mersey Mind Project charity football match at Prenton Park on May 16 and fundraising efforts * Relaunch of Walk and Talk groups for mental health support and community engagement * The significance of football in mental health and strong father-son relationships * The effect of football legends like Mohamed Salah and their influence on young fans * Experiences of traveling abroad to Ireland and Latvia, discovering hidden gems and cultural differences * Insights into the creeping costs of football merchandise, especially England kits, and their impact on families * Concerns over rising fuel, energy, and living costs, and frustrations with ticket pricing at Liverpool FC * Personal anecdotes including taxi stories and family moments during international breaks In part two, the lads are joined by Jess Trigg from Positivity Club CIC. They explore innovative approaches to mental health, emphasizing early intervention, emotional literacy, and resilience-building strategies for children, teens, and adults. Discover how fun, interactive activities can break down barriers, foster self-love, and nurture emotional intelligence across different age groups. * Jess shares her personal mental health journey and how it inspired the creation of Positivity Club. * The importance of early emotional education and the role of play in learning about feelings. * Strategies for teaching children to identify and regulate big emotions with tools like characters and emojis. * How to involve parents in mental health initiatives and support children’s emotional development at home. * The impact of inclusive, safe spaces for children and teens to express themselves authentically. * Practical approaches to reduce mental health stigma among men and within communities. * The influence of social media, societal expectations, and toxic masculinity on young boys and men. * The importance of outdoor activities and nature in supporting neurodiverse children and those with ADHD. * The role of adult groups in fostering community, self-expression, and ongoing mental health support. * Jess discusses the significance of diagnosis, self-compassion, and understanding neurodiversity. * Insights on how societal and educational system changes can better support emotional and mental wellbeing. If you have any questions, suggestions, or if something is going your head in, get in touch at mindsonthemersey@gmail.com https://www.mindsonthemersey.co.uk To sign up for all the activities that Mersey Mind Project have to offer, visit https://www.merseymindproject.co.uk For everything Positivity Club, visit https://www.positivityclubcic.co.uk