Don't Quit on Me

Nick C
  • 5.0 (2)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

Welcome to Don't Quit on Me - the podcast series where we consider alternative ways to manage the inevitability of stress and pain. Through speaking with a wide range of people who share their stories, strategies, and perspectives we aim to inspire hope, confidence, and belief in the fact that things can get better, no matter where you are.

  1. 12/24/2025

    Finding Space in a Chaotic World - Ralph De La Rosa

    Welcome to this special holiday episode as we approach the end of 2025. As the year draws to a close, many of us find ourselves reflecting on what we've been working through - both personally and professionally. Today, we explore a profound question that I have been working with this year: What is the difference between pain and suffering in meditation? Pain is the raw, unavoidable sensation - physical or emotional. Suffering, however, sometimes called the "second arrow": the mental resistance, stories, and bracing we add on top of pain. Meditation isn't about erasing pain; it's about letting go of the resistance to it. This insight is especially relevant during stressful times, whether it's a tight deadline at work or the anxiety before a big presentation. By practicing "Recognizing the narrative our minds create" we can learn to pause, notice these stories we're telling ourselves, and learn to sit with any sensations that present - without adding layers of judgment or worry. This time of year can be challenging for many, and I want to Honour that. In this episode, we revisit a heartfelt conversation from Christmas Day 2022 with the late, much-loved Ralph De La Rosa. Ralph's wisdom continues to resonate, offering comfort and insight to those navigating grief and difficulty, especially during the holidays. Together, we'll delve into the realities of grief, seasonal depression, and the lingering effects of what many are calling the poly crises happening around the world.  In the conversation we share personal stories and perspectives on the importance of acknowledging and processing emotions, rather than pushing them aside. Ww discuss the toll of living in survival mode, the value of wellness practices, and the power of mindfulness and meditation practices in being able to see when our mind is adding extra suffering. The episode finishes with a short practice offered by Ralph designed to help you find and access inner space and connection, leaving you with practical tools to carry forward into challenging times. Whether you're tuning in during a moment of celebration or reflection, I hope this episode offers you comfort, clarity, and actionable wisdom. May you be Happy, May You Be Well, May you be Safe and May you live with Ease.   00:00 Introduction and Seasonal Struggles   00:11 Grief and Cultural Shifts   01:03 The Reflex of Isolation   01:34 Collective Exhaustion and Survival Mode   04:57 Facing Difficulties and Finding Compassion   09:37 The Importance of Making Space   12:20 Presence and Active Receptivity   17:27 Guided Meditation Practice   28:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    35 min

  2. 11/17/2025

    The Art of Being: Embracing Mindfulness and Compassion During Challenging Times with Cortland Dahl

    The Art of Being: Embracing Mindfulness and Compassion During Challenging Times with Cortland Dahl In this enlightening episode, we delve into the transformative journey and work of Dr Cortland Dahl, a meditation expert, scientist, translator and researcher at the Center for Healthy Minds. Cort's true passion is using ancient wisdom and modern science to help people flourish. Cort shares his personal experiences from battling anxiety as a young adult to finding solace and purpose through extensive work with meditation and compassion practices during eight years living in Tibetan refugee settlements in India and Nepal. He discusses the critical role of contemplative traditions in navigating the modern world's overwhelming pace and information overload. The conversation covers the importance of shifting from a state of doing to being, the mental health epidemic, and practical techniques for cultivating inner calm and compassion. Cort offers profound insights into how we can harness our innate capacities for wisdom and compassion. The episode concludes with a beautiful guided practice led by Cort, providing listeners with a practical experience of simply being that we can take into our daily life.   Cort's work can be found here: https://cortlanddahl.com/ https://centerhealthyminds.org   00:00 Introduction to Contemplative Traditions 00:33 Struggles with Anxiety and Early Discoveries 03:21 The Impact of Modern Life on Mental Health 04:39 The Mismatch Between Evolution and Modern Society 07:10 Simple Practices for Mental Well-being 13:12 The Power of Perspective and Micro Practices 22:31 The Role of Compassion and Service 25:49 Understanding Devotion and Social Learning 28:41 The Power of Respect and Inspiration 29:32 Personal Reflections on Prince and Devotion 32:15 A Meditator's Guide to Buddhism 32:56 The Four Noble Truths and the Path to Awakening 34:37 Writing the Book: Motivation and Process 36:33 Exploring Buddhist Philosophy and Practice 39:29 Advice for Those in Pain 40:23 The Importance of Being Over Doing 50:26 A Short Guided Meditation Practice 57:59 Final Thoughts and Appreciation

    1h 2m

  3. 09/11/2025

    Never Quit: Lessons in Leadership and Life - A conversation with Greg Robertson

    Never Quit: Lessons in Leadership and Life - A conversation with Greg Robertson In this episode, Greg Robertson  shares his extensive military background, from joining the Army at 17 and serving for 25 years, including 15 years as a sniper in special forces and regular army.  Greg was inspired by the US Army Sniper Association, and after a few key experiences, established the Army Sniper Association (snipe.org.au) to maintain corporate knowledge, connection and support soldiers with practical resources relevant to them.  In our conversation Greg recounts his experiences, and the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, emphasizing the importance of resilience, community, and finding new purpose. Greg also discusses strategies for mental health, from breathing techniques & mindset to journaling, highlighting the significance of staying active and engaged in community post-service. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:08 Greg's Military Journey 00:46 Inspiration Behind the Sniper Association 02:01 The Regular Army 03:38 Establishing the Sniper Association 04:51 Veteran Support and Mental Health 08:57 Lessons from the Army 12:08 Overcoming Failure and Persistence 20:26 Healing and Transitioning from the Army 26:22 Adjusting to Civilian Life After Military Service 26:38 The Bond Among Military Personnel 28:52 The Role of Humour in Mental Health 30:32 Understanding Resilience and Community 35:40 Practical Strategies for Mental Health 41:23 Finding Purpose and Identity Post-Military 44:53 Conclusion and Contact Information   Finding support for trauma, especially for military and ex-military personnel, is a crucial step towards healing. Here are some of the key mental health resources and helplines available in Australia.   Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online. Suicide Call Back Service provides 24/7 support if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal. Call 1300 659 467. Beyond Blue aims to increase awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce stigma. If you or a loved one need help, you can call 1300 22 4636, 24 hours/7 days a week or chat online. MindSpot is a free telephone and online service for people with anxiety, stress, low mood or depression. It provides online assessment and treatment for anxiety and depression. MindSpot is not an emergency or instant response service. Call 1800 61 44 34. Medicare Mental Health gives advice and will connect you to local mental health services. Call 1800 595 212. MensLine Australia is a professional telephone and online counselling service offering support to Australian men. Call 1300 78 99 78, 24 hours/7 or chat online. For Military and Ex-Military Personnel and their Families Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling: This is a fantastic service that provides free and confidential 24/7 counselling and support to anyone who has served at least one day in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), as well as their partners and families. Phone: 1800 011 046 Website: https://www.openarms.gov.au/ ADF All-hours Support Line (ASL): This is a 24-hour phone-based counselling and support service for all ADF members and their families. Phone: 1800 628 036 Defence Family Helpline: This service offers 24-hour support, information, and help in connecting with local communities for Defence families. Phone: 1800 624 608 Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA): The DVA website is a comprehensive resource that provides information on mental health support services, treatment plans, and early warning signs of mental illness for veterans and ADF personnel. Website: https://www.dva.gov.au/ For All Survivors of Trauma 1800RESPECT: This is a confidential information, counselling, and support service available for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for anyone impacted by domestic, family, or sexual violence. Phone: 1800 737 732 Website: https://www.1800respect.org.au/ Full Stop Australia: They offer free, 24/7, confidential, trauma-specialist counselling for people impacted by sexual, domestic, and family violence, as well as their friends and family. Phone: 1800 385 578 Website: https://fullstop.org.au/ Blue Knot Foundation: As the National Centre of Excellence for Complex Trauma, the Blue Knot Foundation provides a helpline for adult survivors of childhood trauma and abuse, their families, and professionals who work with them. Phone: 1300 657 380 Website: https://www.blueknot.org.au/ General Mental Health Helplines Lifeline: Provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. Phone: 13 11 14 Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au/ Beyond Blue: Offers 24/7 support for anyone concerned about mental health, particularly anxiety, depression, and suicide. Phone: 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Suicide Call Back Service: Provides 24/7 telephone and online counselling for people affected by suicide. Phone: 1300 659 467 MensLine Australia: A professional telephone and online counselling service for men with emotional health and relationship concerns, available 24/7. Phone: 1300 78 99 78 Kids Helpline: A free, confidential 24/7 counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. Phone: 1800 55 1800 If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000 for emergency services in Australia.

    48 min

  4. 07/26/2025

    Crisis and Compassion: Meredith Parfet on Transforming Loss into Meaning

    Crisis and Compassion: Meredith Parfet on Transforming Loss into Meaning In this episode, we delve deep into the multifaceted world of grief, crisis management, and emotional resilience with Meredith Parfet, a CEO, hospice chaplain and death doula.   Meredith shares her poignant and personal journey with grief, having lost her sister during the early stages of the opioid epidemic, followed by a series of other profound losses.   As CEO of Raynard Group, 'Meredith works with individuals and organizations experiencing Capital C crisis – legal or regulatory action, fatalities, white collar crime, scandal, complex family office disputes. Crisis is not a bad tweet; it changes the trajectory of your life.'   She transitioned from a career in finance to also working with the dying, becoming a death doula and eventually a chaplain, bringing a unique perspective to both grief and crisis management.    Throughout this conversation, Meredith discusses grief, the impact of grief in professional settings, and how executive leaders can manage crises with compassion and presence.   Meredith also emphasizes the significance of turning towards suffering, finding meaning in grief, and the power of 'the next right thing' in navigating life's most challenging moments.   This episode is a rich tapestry of personal story, expert insights, and practical wisdom on handling grief and crises with grace and resilience.     00:00 Introduction and Welcome   00:32 Meredith's Personal Journey with Grief   02:20 Becoming a Death Doula and Hospice Chaplain   03:42 The Intersection of Finance and Mortality   04:14 Understanding Grief Beyond Death   05:24 The Profound Experience of Death and Dying   07:05 Buddhist Philosophy and the Concept of Bardo   10:07 Crisis Management and Professional Grief   20:56 Healthy vs. Unhealthy Grief   25:24 The Transformative Power of Grief   26:28 Finding Meaning in Trauma   27:40 The Role of Outrage in Grief   30:09 Prioritizing During Crisis   32:58 The Healing Power of Service   35:51 Humanizing Leadership   39:40 Balancing Spirituality and Escapism   43:55 Turning Towards Suffering   46:03 The Next Right Thing

    52 min

  5. 07/08/2025

    The Generous Exchange: Maria Sirois on Burnout, Resilience, Beauty and Excellence

    The Generous Exchange: Maria Sirois on Burnout, Resilience, Beauty and Excellence   In this heartfelt conversation, Nick interviews Maria Sirois, Psychologist, Leadership Consultant and Author about her journey and her book 'The Generous Exchange.'   Maria shares her experiences working with families facing life-threatening diseases, encountering resilience in its most profound form. We discuss the concept of resilience as more than mere adaptation, but as an alignment with one's true self and an active engagement with life's sharp points.   Maria delves into her personal struggles with burnout during the pandemic, the evolution of her resilience practices, and the role of beauty, goodness, and excellence in uplifting the human spirit.   We also touch on the importance of accepting imperfection, the power of self-compassion, and the transformative potential of small acts of kindness and appreciation.   This episode is a balm for anyone navigating difficult times, offering practical tools and profound insights into the nature and learnable skillset of human resilience.     00:00 Introduction and Welcome   00:15 Maria's Journey to Resilience   02:27 Defining Resilience   03:59 Permission to Be Human   07:07 Three Questions of Resilience   16:13 The Generous Exchange   23:22 Struggles with Gym Attendance   23:57 The Science Behind Motion   24:28 Building Positive Habits   25:50 Creating a Positive Environment   27:07 Mutual Flourishing and Responsibility   34:04 The Power of Simple Gestures   35:51 Finding Peace in Chaos   42:05 Meditative Practices and Self-Compassion   44:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    48 min

  6. 05/22/2025

    The New Happy - A Journey into Compassion and Resilience - Stephanie Harrison

    The New Happy A Journey into Compassion and Resilience - Stephanie Harrison   In this insightful episode, we start with a tribute to the life and work of friend of the show Ralph De La Rosa, who graced our show on three different occasions, offering profound insights, support and wisdom. We are so grateful for their contributions and the light they brought.   In our interview, we discus the importance of compassion, self-awareness, and vulnerability in today's world. Stephanie shares her personal journey in pursuing happiness, the challenges of societal expectations, and how her work aims to help others redefine happiness through connection with oneself and others.   The conversation delves into strategies for dealing with mental health, embracing suffering, and finding fulfillment. With references to wisdom traditions and practical actions, Stephanie provides a holistic and easy to understand approach to achieving a balanced and realistic understanding of happiness.   The episode wraps up with thoughts on resilience, community support, and actionable advice for those facing challenging times.   00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome   00:32 The Importance of Vulnerability and Self-Awareness   02:02 Stephanie's Journey to Happiness   03:53 The Philosophy of New Happy   09:33 Challenges and Strategies for Happiness   25:53 The Concept of Resilience   36:56 Final Thoughts and How to Find the Book

    51 min

  7. 04/28/2025

    The Future of Behavioral Science with Steven Hayes: Beyond Bell Curves

    The Future of Behavioral Science with Steven Hayes: Beyond Bell Curves   In this captivating episode, Dr Steven Hayes returns to discuss the significant developments in the landscape of behavioral science and the ACT model over the past four years. Steven explores the limitations of traditional scientific methods in characterizing individual human behavior and introduces innovative approaches that focus on individualized analysis.   He delves into the concept of idio and nomothetic measurements, emphasizing the importance of personalized processes for improving mental health and well-being. The discussion also touches on self-compassion, emotional flexibility, and the evolving needs of modern society in a rapidly changing world.   Join us for an insightful conversation that bridges the gap between science and practice to empower individuals in leading meaningful lives.   00:00 Welcome Back, Steven!   00:27 Developments in ACT and Behavioral Science   03:46 Challenges in Modern Science and Society   06:11 Personalized Approaches in Behavioral Science   12:41 The Complexity of Values and Self-Compassion   17:59 Practical Advice for Self-Compassion and Emotional Awareness   27:17 Exploring Emotional Flexibility   28:38 The Self-Help Book Journey   30:16 Internet Addiction Insights   33:04 The Future of Self-Empowerment   38:54 The Changing World and Wellbeing   41:08 A Practical Exercise for Alignment   52:21 Final Thoughts on Human Progress

    58 min

  8. 03/02/2025

    The Healing Power of Expressive Writing: An Interview with Dr. Jamie Pennebaker

    The Healing Power of Expressive Writing: An Interview with Dr. Jamie Pennebaker In this enlightening episode, we delve into the transformative world of expressive writing with Dr. Jamie Pennebaker, a leading researcher in the field. Dr. Pennebaker recounts the fascinating journey from his initial studies on the impact of journaling on overcoming trauma to the development of the computer program, Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC). Discover how expressive writing can remarkably improve physical and mental health, the significance of language in understanding emotional states, and practical advice for implementing these insights into daily life. Whether it's navigating personal hardships or fostering self-awareness, this conversation uncovers the profound benefits of putting thoughts into words. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:31 Discovering the Power of Expressive Writing 03:09 The First Study and Its Impact 06:02 Methodology and Instructions for Expressive Writing 09:48 Health Benefits and Challenges of Expressive Writing 17:07 Exploring Language and Mental Health 39:30 Case Study: Kathleen Folbigg and Text Analysis 43:16 Reflections and Future Outlook   Mental Health Resources Australia:  * Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au  * Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au  * 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 or 1800respect.org.au  * Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au  * SANE Australia: 1800 187 263 or sane.org   United States:  * National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE or RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) at rainn.org  * National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988  * Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741  * The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or nami.org  * Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or samhsa.gov   United Kingdom:  * National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247 or nationaldahelpline.org.uk  * Rape Crisis England & Wales: 0808 802 9999 or rapecrisis.org.uk  * Samaritans: 116 123 or samaritans.org  * Mind: 0300 123 3393 or mind.org.uk  * Shout Crisis Text Line: Text SHOUT to 85258  * NHS mental health services: via your GP or the NHS website.

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Don't Quit on Me - the podcast series where we consider alternative ways to manage the inevitability of stress and pain. Through speaking with a wide range of people who share their stories, strategies, and perspectives we aim to inspire hope, confidence, and belief in the fact that things can get better, no matter where you are.

Information

  • Creator
    Nick C
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    52
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023 Don't Quit on Me
  • Show Website
    Don't Quit on Me

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