The Blokes Psychology Podcast

blokespsychology
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  • Mental Health
  • Updated Monthly

Mens health, mental health, psychology, relationships, masculinity & pretty much everything that relates to being a man in todays society. Featuring a range of guests, from all walks of life. Designed to educate men of all ages, so they can improve themselves and their lives and ultimately live a more fulfilling, meaningful life!

  1. Sep 24

    Beyond Talk Therapy: Rethinking Mental Health Support for Men

    Beyond Talk Therapy: Rethinking Mental Health Support for Men Why do some men continue to experience poor mental health outcomes, even when support is available? And what can we do differently to help men engage? In this episode, Craig sits down with Dr. Lewis Burns, psychologist at Blokes Psychology, to explore the relationship between masculinity, stigma, help-seeking and men's engagement with mental health treatment. Drawing on his research, Lewis discusses how traditional masculine norms can shape the way some men understand distress, vulnerability and the idea of seeking psychological support. Importantly, the conversation also recognises that men are not a single group - while many engage well with traditional talk therapy, others may benefit from different pathways into mental health care. Craig and Lewis also explore the growing interest in activity-based interventions, including surf therapy, and how approaches that combine activity, connection and psychological support may help reduce barriers to engagement for some men. In this episode: Why some men may be reluctant to seek psychological support Masculinity, stigma and attitudes towards vulnerability Why traditional talk therapy works for some men but not others The importance of avoiding stereotypes when discussing men's mental health Activity-based approaches to psychological support The emerging role of surf therapy How mental health services can better meet men where they are A thoughtful discussion about how we can broaden the pathways into mental health care without oversimplifying men or compromising the quality of support they receive. Featuring: Dr. Lewis Burns, Psychologist - Blokes Psychology Host: Craig

  2. Aug 20

    Phobias: Why They Develop & How to Overcome Them

    What makes a fear become a phobia, and why can’t we simply reason our way out of it? In this episode of The Blokes Psychology Podcast, Craig sits down with Blokes Psychology psychologist Rohan to unpack phobias: what they are, how they develop, and why avoidance can keep fear going over time. They explore the difference between everyday fears and phobias, the role of avoidance, and what effective psychological treatment can involve, including exposure therapy and how it can be approached gradually and collaboratively. Rohan also discusses common misconceptions about phobia treatment and some of the barriers that can stop people from seeking help. A practical, down-to-earth conversation about understanding phobias, facing fear, and what can help when fear starts getting in the way of everyday life.

  3. Jun 12

    End-of-Life Care, Existential Distress & Psilocybin Therapy | Shanae O'Leary

    In this episode, Craig sits down with psychologist Shanae O'Leary to discuss end-of-life care, existential distress, and the emerging role of psilocybin-assisted therapy for people living with terminal illness. Together they explore the psychological challenges of facing the end of life, the research and ethics surrounding psychedelic-assisted therapy, and how we can better support meaning, dignity, and wellbeing during life's final chapter.

  4. Apr 15

    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.

  5. Feb 27

    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.

  6. Jan 26

    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.

  7. 09/12/2025

    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.

  8. 08/21/2025

    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.

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Mens health, mental health, psychology, relationships, masculinity & pretty much everything that relates to being a man in todays society. Featuring a range of guests, from all walks of life. Designed to educate men of all ages, so they can improve themselves and their lives and ultimately live a more fulfilling, meaningful life!

Information

  • Creator
    blokespsychology
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2020 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Blokes Psychology Podcast

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