Inspired Men Talk: Breaking the Stigma of Men's Mental Health

Gary Johannes | Benn Baker-Pollard Christopher Johannes and Peter Ely
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Welcome to Inspired Men Talk, the podcast dedicated to breaking the stigma around men's mental health. Join four mental health practitioners from Inspired to Change as they share unique perspectives and experiences. Benn: Former Metropolitan Police officer with 18 years of service Gary: Veteran and seasoned business owner Peter: Security expert and stand-up comedian Chris: Father of three and youth organisation leader In each episode, we tackle the challenges men face in mental health, from seeking support and talking to friends to accessing professional help. Our discussions cover topics like men's health, wellness, and current affairs, providing valuable insights and support. Why Listen to Inspired Men Talk? Expert Insights: Practical advice from experienced mental health practitioners. Real Stories: Candid conversations and personal stories that resonate. Diverse Perspectives: Hosts with varied backgrounds and experiences. Supportive Community: Join a movement to break the stigma around men's mental health. Subscribe to Inspired Men Talk on your favourite podcast platform and follow us on social media. Visit www.inspiredtochange.biz to learn more and connect with our community.

  1. Special Episode - Inspired Men Club

    12/16/2025 · BONUS

    Special Episode - Inspired Men Club

    n this special episode of Inspired Men Talk, Peter Ely sits down with host and founder Gary Johannes to introduce something brand new for 2026: The Inspired Men Club  a weekly, judgement-free space where men can simply be, talk if they want to, connect if they choose to, or just sit with a proper cup of tea and a decent biscuit. Supported by Peterborough United Foundation, the Armed Forces Covenant, and local community partners, this new initiative is designed to remove the barriers that stop men from seeking support  no booking, no sign-in, no expectations, no pressure. Just a warm, friendly place where every man is welcome, whether you're 20 or 70, chatty or quiet, struggling or simply needing time out from the noise of life. Gary shares the spark behind creating the club, why now is the right time, and how a series of small moments  and a lot of kindness  led to a movement that aims to make a real difference in Peterborough and beyond. You’ll also hear about biscuit diplomacy, community collaboration, and a vision for building a space men will rely on all year round. If you, or someone you care about, could benefit from connection, company, or a calmer place to land, this episode is the perfect introduction. The Inspired Men Club launches Monday 5th January, 7–8:30pm Unit 7F, Shrewsbury Avenue, Peterborough, PE2 7EY Come as you are. No pressure, no judgement — just a warm welcome.

    17 min
  2. From Bank Robbery to Cancer Survivor: Dan Riley’s Unbelievable Journey

    07/08/2025

    From Bank Robbery to Cancer Survivor: Dan Riley’s Unbelievable Journey

    🌟 Welcome to Inspired Men Talk! Today, we’re sharing one of the most powerful stories of resilience and transformation you’ll ever hear. Imagine facing: 🔫 [00:05:00] – A gun pointed at your chest during a bank robbery 🔥 [00:20:00] – Being forced to flee your home in the middle of the night as wildfires raged 💔 [00:35:00] – A stage 3 cancer diagnosis that threatened your life Most people would break under the weight of just one of these traumas. But today’s guest, Dan Reilly, author of Seize Your Second Chance, faced all three – and instead of giving up, he used these challenges to transform his life and help others do the same. 🎙️ In this episode, you’ll discover: ✅ [00:10:00] – How Dan survived the trauma of an armed bank robbery ✅ [00:25:00] – What it was like to lose everything to wildfires and how he rebuilt ✅ [00:40:00] – His cancer journey and how his health transformation saved his life ✅ [00:55:00] – Why small daily steps matter more than big leaps when rebuilding life ✅ [01:10:00] – The five pillars of post-traumatic growth and how you can apply them ✅ [01:20:00] – Dan’s mission to raise awareness for oesophageal cancer and inspire others to seize their own second chance 💡 If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready to change your life, this conversation will give you hope, practical strategies, and the belief that you too can rise again stronger and more aligned with who you truly are. 👇 Find out more about Dan here: 🌐 danielpreilly.com 🌐 fightec.org 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more honest, raw, and uplifting stories that fuel your resilience and wellbeing journey. 👇 Comment below: What challenge in your life became your second chance? 🎧 Listen or watch now to be inspired, empowered, and ready to take back control of your life. #InspiredMenTalk #Podcast #Resilience #MensMentalHealth #SeizeYourSecondChance

    53 min
  3. Tackling Body Image and Men's Mental Health: Insights and Tips | Inspired Men Talk

    05/23/2025

    Tackling Body Image and Men's Mental Health: Insights and Tips | Inspired Men Talk

    In this episode of Inspired Men Talk, four solution-focused therapists, each from a different decade, delve into the complex issues surrounding men's mental health and body image.  Recorded on a pleasant mid-May day, the discussion touches on society's growing body consciousness, pressures of attaining an ideal physique, and the significant mental health impacts stemming from these issues.  The therapists share personal anecdotes and professional insights on how one's mental health affects body image and vice versa.  They also debate the societal norms around aesthetics, plastic surgery, and the obligations of parents in fostering healthy lifestyles for their children.  The episode wraps up with practical tips for improving self-image and mental well-being. 00:00 Introduction to Inspired Men Talk 00:15 Discussing the Weather and Body Consciousness 01:02 Body Image Pressures and Mental Health 02:20 Personal Experiences with Body Image 04:05 Impact of Social Media and Filters 06:33 Botox and Cosmetic Surgery Trends 07:22 Generational Differences in Body Image 14:03 Plastic Surgery and Mental Health 21:53 Convenience Culture and Body Image 29:42 Struggling with Weight and Lifestyle Choices 30:31 The Excuses We Make 30:54 The Impact of Stress on Health 32:11 The Role of Shame in Motivation 32:58 Personal Stories of Realization 35:46 Small Steps to Big Changes 41:57 The Importance of Internal Motivation 45:31 Controversial Parenting and Obesity 57:06 Final Thoughts and Tips

    59 min
  4. 20-Year-Old Activist Redefines Purpose & Resilience | Inspired Men Talk with Innes Morgan

    05/05/2025

    20-Year-Old Activist Redefines Purpose & Resilience | Inspired Men Talk with Innes Morgan

    What does it take for a 20-year-old from one of the UK’s most remote communities to make a national impact on policy, purpose, and mental health? Meet Innes Morgan, a driven young changemaker from Dunnet Head, Scotland, who is breaking stereotypes and leading conversations from the grassroots to government. In this episode of Inspired Men Talk, four solution-focused hypnotherapists representing four decades of experience sit down with Innes to explore his journey, from growing up in a rural village with no local services to launching the non-profit Act with Purpose and advising national leaders. 🔹 This inspiring conversation covers: Youth activism and finding your voice at any ageMental health challenges, imposter syndrome, and resilienceBuilding connection and routine to combat isolationLiving with purpose and creating social changeThe power of gratitude and emotional intelligence in leadershipConfronting stigma around age, geography, and ambitionWhether you're a parent, teacher, policymaker or young adult looking for motivation and guidance, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth and practical tools for emotional wellbeing and impact. 💬 Subscribe for more episodes that tackle men’s mental health, resilience, and empowered living. #MentalHealth #YouthLeadership #InnesGordon #InspiredMenTalk #PurposeDrivenLife #MensWellbeing #CommunityEmpowerment #SocialImpact #SolutionFocusedTherapy #EmotionalWellbeing #RemoteScotland #ImposterSyndrome #Resilience #YoungActivists #ActWithPurpose ⏱️ Video Timeline (Chapters for SEO and Viewer Navigation): 00:00 – Welcome to Inspired Men Talk 01:00 – Meet Innes Morgan: Scotland’s Young Changemaker 03:00 – Life at the UK's Most Remote Mainland Village 06:00 – From Angry Letters to Action: The Start of Innes’ Journey 08:30 – The Decline of Rural Industry and Its Mental Health Impact 11:00 – Youth Activism: Creating Change Without a Roadmap 14:30 – What Drives Social Change? Purpose & Community 18:00 – Facing Rejection, Building Resilience 21:00 – Identity, Belonging & Imposter Syndrome 25:00 – Why Routine and Micro-Connections Matter in Mental Health 28:30 – Moving to London and Cambridge: Culture Shock & Growth 33:00 – Stigma Around Youth, Accents & Stereotypes 38:00 – How Gratitude and Self-Awareness Build Emotional Strength 43:00 – Innes’ Advice for Young People Who Want to Make a Difference 46:00 – What Has Changed in His Community? Reflections on Impact 49:00 – All About Act With Purpose & How to Get Involved 51:00 – Final Thoughts: Resilience, Purpose and the Future

    52 min
  5. Men’s Health Matters: Suicide, Stigma, and Systemic Gaps Ft. Fiona Flaherty

    04/22/2025

    Men’s Health Matters: Suicide, Stigma, and Systemic Gaps Ft. Fiona Flaherty

    In this powerful episode of Inspired Men Talk, we’re joined by the remarkable Fiona Flaherty, a specialist in men’s health, public health, and preventative care.  With over 45 years of experience in healthcare, Fiona dives deep into the often unspoken challenges men face physically, mentally, and systemically. We explore why men are still dying younger, how the NHS often overlooks male-specific needs, and why 1 in 4 men won’t make it to retirement due to suicide.  This episode is full of insight, practical tools, straight-talking advice, and hard-hitting truths that could save lives. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, an advocate, or simply a man trying to take control of your well-being—this conversation is for you. 📌 Topics Covered: Why the NHS isn’t built for men The psychology behind male silence What most health checks miss The surprising truth about chlamydia in men over 50 How to write a letter your GP will actually read What the “andropause” is and why no one’s talking about it 🧠 Let’s talk about men’s health, stigma, and real solutions—from hormones to heart attacks to hope. ⏱️ 00:00 – Intro & Sponsor: Mental Health in the Workplace01:00 – Meet the Hosts & Guest Line-up03:00 – Fiona’s Journey: From Nursing to Men’s Health05:00 – Why Fiona Works with Men (and Not Women)07:00 – Fiona’s Master’s in Public Health & Focus on Male Suicide09:30 – Suicide, Stigma & Systemic Gaps in Healthcare12:00 – Why Men Are Often Missed or Misdiagnosed15:00 – The Chlamydia Taboo: Older Men & Sexual Health17:00 – Getting Men Talking: How & Why It Works18:45 – Why the NHS Was Designed for Women & Children21:00 – The Need for Male-Specific Healthcare Spaces25:00 – The Andropause: The Male Hormonal Shift28:00 – Men, Mental Health & The Fear of Failure31:00 – The GP Gap: How to Get the Right Help34:00 – Writing a Letter Your GP Will Read: Practical Advice36:00 – Referrals, Resources & Knowing Your Rights41:00 – How to Use Your 7 Minutes with a GP Wisely44:00 – Polypharmacy & the Impact on Older Men’s Health48:00 – Gut Health, Mood & Food: The Missing Link50:00 – The ‘Health House’ Analogy: Understanding the Body55:00 – Why Suicide Rates in Men Are So High01:03:00 – Final Reflections: Prevention, Permission, Power

    1h 13m
  6. Surviving the Tsunami: A Story of Trauma, Resilience & Hope | Inspired Men Talk Podcast ft. James Newell

    04/15/2025

    Surviving the Tsunami: A Story of Trauma, Resilience & Hope | Inspired Men Talk Podcast ft. James Newell

    In this episode of Inspired Men Talk, we speak with James Newell, a business owner and father of three, who shares his astonishing story of surviving the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami in Thailand. But this is far more than just a survival story — it’s a deeply human account of overcoming childhood trauma, processing grief following the suicide of a parent, battling anxiety, and ultimately finding healing through therapy and connection. James opens up with raw honesty, warmth, and even humour, offering insights into trauma recovery, the power of choosing your response, and why he considers himself one of the lucky ones. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, emotional wellbeing support, or simply a story of remarkable resilience, this episode is not to be missed. 💬 Topics include: Men’s mental health & emotional wellbeingSurviving trauma and natural disasterCoping with grief and lossThe power of CBT and counsellingBreaking generational cycles & positive parenting🧠 Empowering conversations that remind us it’s okay to speak up. You’re not alone. 🔗 Connect with James Newell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesnewell/ Business: https://clearsalesmessage.com 📩 Looking for support? Visit [your website or resource here] for a free initial consultation and access to our wellbeing resources. 🕒 Timeline / Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Inspired Men Talk 02:00 – Meet James Newell 04:20 – Early trauma: losing his father to suicide 08:30 – Travelling solo to reset life 13:00 – Christmas on Phi Phi Island 18:20 – The tsunami strikes: James’ near-death experience 28:45 – Escaping the island and the aftermath 38:00 – Returning home & recovery 43:00 – Mental health struggles and therapy 49:10 – Rebuilding with CBT 54:40 – Fatherhood, purpose & breaking the cycle 1:01:00 – The power of choosing your response 1:07:30 – Final reflections & advice 1:10:00 – How to connect with James

    1h 2m
  7. Not Just Surviving – Thriving: How Pazbi Turned Pain into Purpose

    04/02/2025

    Not Just Surviving – Thriving: How Pazbi Turned Pain into Purpose

    Welcome to Inspired Men Talk, where real stories inspire genuine change. In this powerful episode, we speak with the remarkable Pazbi Zavazki, a creative force and resilient spirit who overcame stage 4 cancer as a child, learned to walk again when doctors said he never would, and is now leading the way in neuroinclusive tech innovation. From his childhood battle with leukaemia to navigating life with ADHD and building a purpose-driven business, Pazbi’s story is filled with hope, humour, and heartfelt insight. This is a conversation you won't want to miss. ⏱️ What You’ll Hear in This Episode:00:00 – Meet Pazbi Zavazki: A Story of Strength03:15 – Growing Up Between Greece, Poland & the UK06:40 – Cancer Diagnosis at Age 7 & Relearning to Walk13:00 – The Power of Hope, Teachers, and Mr Bean21:00 – Being Diagnosed with ADHD at 3025:45 – Learning to Focus & Letting Go of Shiny Things31:10 – How Identity Shifts Rewire the Brain38:00 – Advice for Parents & Adults Facing Illness43:30 – Creating Neuroinclusive Standards in Business50:20 – Travel Tips for Japan!55:00 – Why Therapy, Focus & Small Joys Matter

    58 min
  8. Why Dating Feels Impossible for Men | The Truth About Modern Relationships & Mental Health

    03/05/2025

    Why Dating Feels Impossible for Men | The Truth About Modern Relationships & Mental Health

    Description: Dating in 2025 is harder than ever, especially for men. With dating apps creating unrealistic expectations and rejection becoming a daily struggle, it's no surprise that men's mental health is suffering. In this powerful episode of Inspired Men Talk, hosts Peter Ely, Benn Baker-Pollard, and Gary Johannes sit down with Eamer Draper, a straight-talking dating coach, to unpack the challenges modern men face in dating and relationships. 💡 What you'll learn in this episode:✔️ The hidden struggles men face in online dating✔️ Why rejection is actually protection✔️ The truth about dating app algorithms (and how they work against you)✔️ How to boost confidence & find meaningful connections✔️ Practical tips to navigate dating with a healthy mindset If you’ve ever felt lost in the dating world or frustrated with the modern landscape of love, this episode is for you! ✨ Resources & Links:🔹 Take the Dating Persona Quiz: https://bit.ly/43orRS2🔹 Learn more about Kindling Dating Coaching: https://kindlingdating.com/🔹 Follow Eamer Draper on Instagram: @kindling_dating 💬 What’s your biggest struggle with dating? Drop a comment below! Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE for more real conversations on men’s mental health. #DatingTips #MensMentalHealth #Relationships #ModernDating #OnlineDating #SelfConfidence #Love #InspiredMenTalk #MentalHealthMatters #DatingCoach #PersonalGrowth #DatingApps #MenAndRelationships

    55 min
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About

Welcome to Inspired Men Talk, the podcast dedicated to breaking the stigma around men's mental health. Join four mental health practitioners from Inspired to Change as they share unique perspectives and experiences. Benn: Former Metropolitan Police officer with 18 years of service Gary: Veteran and seasoned business owner Peter: Security expert and stand-up comedian Chris: Father of three and youth organisation leader In each episode, we tackle the challenges men face in mental health, from seeking support and talking to friends to accessing professional help. Our discussions cover topics like men's health, wellness, and current affairs, providing valuable insights and support. Why Listen to Inspired Men Talk? Expert Insights: Practical advice from experienced mental health practitioners. Real Stories: Candid conversations and personal stories that resonate. Diverse Perspectives: Hosts with varied backgrounds and experiences. Supportive Community: Join a movement to break the stigma around men's mental health. Subscribe to Inspired Men Talk on your favourite podcast platform and follow us on social media. Visit www.inspiredtochange.biz to learn more and connect with our community.

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