Summary

In this episode, we dive into the challenges of starting a passion project in a competitive market with our special guest, Chris Brooker, who is also our new sponsor. Chris shares his journey of launching Sad Cat, a brand aimed at encouraging men to talk about their mental health. We explore the personal experiences that led him to this mission and discuss the importance of open conversations about mental health.

Shop Sad Cat here - https://sadcat.uk/

And follow their Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/sadcat.uk/

Keywords

passion project, competitive market, Chris Brooker, Sad Cat, mental health, open conversations, sponsor

Takeaways

• Chris Brooker shares his journey of launching Sad Cat.
• The importance of open conversations about mental health.
• Challenges of starting a passion project in a competitive market.
• Chris's personal experiences that led to Sad Cat.
• The role of mental health in entrepreneurship.
• How Sad Cat aims to encourage men to talk about mental health.
• Chris's insights on overcoming personal challenges.
• The impact of societal expectations on mental health.
• Strategies for balancing personal well-being with business goals.
• The significance of community support in mental health initiatives.

In this episode of the Mental Health Takeaways podcast, host Matt Knibb sits down for an honest and thought-provoking conversation with Barts from Andy’s Man Club. Together, they unpack key themes around men’s mental health, from the vital role of peer support and the power of simply talking, to the impact of food choices, quality sleep, and self-acceptance on overall wellbeing.

Barts opens up about his own journey with mental health challenges, sharing how Andy’s Man Club became a lifeline and a turning point in his recovery. The discussion underscores the urgent need for safe, non-judgemental spaces where men can be vulnerable, share openly, and support one another – particularly in light of the stark statistics around male suicide.

The conversation also touches on the importance of visualising problems as a way to release emotions, and how community can spark real transformation. Both Matt and Barts reflect on the lessons they’d offer their younger selves, the personal achievements they’re most proud of, and the growth that comes from connection, compassion, and community.

Find out more about Andy's Man Club here https://andysmanclub.co.uk/

Follow their Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/andysmanclubuk?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Takeaways

Takeaway foods can spark easy conversations.

Mental health parallels can be drawn from food choices.

Physical activity and healthy eating are crucial for mental health.

Sleep quality is a significant indicator of mental well-being.

Peer support groups can provide immediate relief and connection.

Andy's Man Club offers a non-judgmental space for men to share.

Statistics show a high rate of male suicide, highlighting the need for support.

The structure of support groups can facilitate open discussions.

Personal achievements can foster a sense of purpose and growth.

Vulnerability can help others and create a supportive community. Peer support is crucial for mental health recovery.

Visualizing problems can help in emotional release.

Sharing vulnerabilities can lighten emotional burdens.

Talking about mental health is essential and beneficial.

It's okay to seek help and support from others.

Acknowledging and accepting problems is a key step in healing.

The Andy's Man Club provides a safe space for men to talk.

Personal growth often comes from sharing experiences with others.

It's important to back yourself and embrace your true self.

Simple actions like talking can lead to significant mental health improvements.

What does it really take to support young men’s mental health?
In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Jim Cumpson from Boys in Mind to explore how we can create safe, supportive spaces where young men feel able to talk openly. Jim dives into why play, fun, and positive role models are so vital for well-being, and why truly listening to young people’s experiences can change everything.

We also tackle some of the biggest challenges facing young men today—redefining masculinity, the influence of social media, and the pressure to “be strong”—and uncover how connection and community can break the stigma around mental health.

Packed with insights from Jim’s work in schools and communities, this episode is both eye-opening and inspiring—a must-listen for parents, teachers, and anyone who wants to support the next generation of men.

Find out about the amazing work of Boys In Mind here https://boysinmind.co.uk/

And follow their social media here https://www.instagram.com/boys.in.mind?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Takeaways

• Mental health isn't always negative; it can be positive.
• Creating safe spaces is essential for open conversations.
• Play and fun are crucial for mental health.
• Listening to young men is key to understanding their needs.
• Strength can come from gentleness.
• Boys need to be encouraged to express their feelings.
• Community and connection play a vital role in mental health.
• Social media can skew perceptions of masculinity.
• We need to get back to the joy of being playful.

In this episode, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about men's mental health, exploring the importance of casual conversations, the role of peer support, and the need for authenticity in mental health messaging. They emphasise the significance of side-by-side activities in fostering open dialogue among men and the impact of societal norms on mental health engagement. The conversation also touches on the necessity for research in men's mental health and the challenges faced in educational settings. Ultimately, the episode highlights the importance of creating safe spaces for men to express their vulnerabilities and the need for a shift towards more engaging and relatable mental health content.

You can find more from the sources mentioned here;

• Who Needs Instructions https://www.instagram.com/whoneedsinstructions?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

• Tobit Emmens https://www.instagram.com/tobit_e?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

• Mr Mind Matt https://www.instagram.com/mrmindmatt?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

• Getting Men Engaged Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1P8yBIU7S899zkgwvMlJ31?si=f530eb97403b41ca

• Dough Bro's https://www.resilientlives.org.uk/dough-bro-s

• Boatyard Bikes https://www.boatyardbikes.org/

• The Dad Network/ Dad Fest 2025 https://thedadsnetwork.org/dadfest-is-coming-to-wales-in-2025/

Takeaways;

• Men often need to be brave enough to be vulnerable.
• Casual conversations can lead to deeper discussions about mental health.
• Engaging in activities helps men open up more than formal settings.
• Peer support is crucial for men's mental health engagement.
• Authenticity in mental health messaging is essential for connection.
• Creating safe spaces allows men to express their vulnerabilities.
• Societal norms can hinder men's willingness to seek help.
• Education systems need to adapt to better support boys' mental health.
• Risk-taking can be beneficial for personal growth and connection.
• Listening is just as important as talking in conversations about mental health.

Summary

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the complexities of dating, emotional labour, and the impact of dating apps on relationships. They discuss the importance of authenticity, self-esteem, and the paradox of choice in dating. The conversation also delves into the dynamics of attraction, the role of humour, and the significance of location in finding meaningful connections. Through personal anecdotes and insights, the hosts encourage listeners to embrace their authentic selves and navigate the dating landscape with confidence. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of attraction, relationships, and emotional dynamics. They explore how primitive instincts affect sexual attraction, the importance of feeling safe in relationships, and the challenges of navigating parenting while seeking meaningful connections. The discussion also touches on the impact of past relationships on future choices, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the significance of understanding personal values. Additionally, they address the emotional labor involved in relationships and the importance of allowing partners to grow independently. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of dating and the evolving landscape of relationships.

Connect with Claire here > https://www.instagram.com/claire.elizabeth.coaching?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Takeaways

Emotional dumping in dating can reflect one's own emotional state.

Creating space in life can lead to healthier dating experiences.

The choice of dating app can influence the quality of connections.

Location can significantly affect the dating pool and attraction.

Authenticity in dating leads to more meaningful connections.

Self-esteem plays a crucial role in dating success.

Overcoming anxiety in dating requires detaching from outcomes.

Humour and intellect are key factors in attraction.

Meeting people organically can lead to deeper connections.

The journey of self-discovery is essential in the dating process. Sex drive diminishes in survival situations.

Anxiety can hinder sexual attraction.

Arousal should be based on feeling, not thinking.

Respect and kindness are fundamental to attraction.

Women often withdraw from intimacy if they feel unsafe.

Past relationships shape future expectations.

Setting boundaries is crucial for emotional health.

Understanding personal values guides relationship choices.

Emotional labour can stunt personal growth.

Kissing is vital for connection in relationships.

Summary

In this conversation, Matt from Klatch Co shares his journey from a creative background to establishing a brand that emphasises mental health and community. He discusses the importance of coffee culture, authenticity in branding, and the role of conversations in mental health. The discussion highlights the significance of taking risks, enjoying the process, and finding ways to connect with others, especially in the context of mental health.

You can shop at Klatch Co here --> https://klatch.co/

Follow their instagram here --> https://www.instagram.com/klatchco?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

And listen to Matt's own podcast here -->https://open.spotify.com/show/2wYq4VGt4vAbtHh12ELHk0?si=01dc0b62cf024dca

Takeaways

A conversation can change so much.

Follow what you're passionate about.

Take the risk and find a way.

Enjoy the process and the journey.

One conversation over coffee could save a life.

I would always choose to be with my mates.

It's about creating a brand with meaning.

Don't be afraid to take risks.

You never know what can happen, just go for it.

It's not about being a zillionaire.

Summary

In this episode, the hosts explore the dynamic nature of mental health, emphasizing the importance of self-care, boundaries, and resilience. They share personal insights on parenting and cooking, discuss the significance of positive actions in combating negative thinking, and reflect on their growth over the past year. The conversation also touches on decision-making, the impact of expectations, and the temporary nature of problems, encouraging listeners to engage in physical activity and seek help when needed.

In the episode we mention services where listners can find help if they need or want it;

Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org/

CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) https://www.thecalmzone.net/

Shout https://giveusashout.org/

Tune is to the full show to hear our personal takeaways and here are just some of the lessons from this epiosde;

Takeaways

Mental health is dynamic and changes over time.

Cooking can be a bonding experience for parents and children.

Self-care is essential, especially during busy workdays.

Boundaries are crucial for maintaining healthy relationships.

Positive actions can help combat negative thinking.

Resilience is built through facing challenges head-on.

It's important to recognize and verbalize expectations to avoid resentment.

The worst thing that happens to you is valid, regardless of others' experiences.

All problems are temporary and can be worked through.

Engaging in physical activity can help shift negative mindsets.

In this celebratory episode marking one year of the Mental Health Takeaways podcast, hosts Brad Smith and Matt Knibb reflect on their journey, discussing personal growth, the importance of authenticity in relationships, and the challenges of dating. They explore the dynamics of mental health, the impact of people pleasing, and the significance of calmness. Through engaging conversations and the 'Would You Rather' game, they share insights from group therapy experiences and emphasise the need for supportive communities. The episode concludes with takeaways on being true to oneself and recognising mental health challenges.

Takeaways

Life is dynamic and mental health changes over time.

Authenticity is crucial in dating and relationships.

People pleasing can be a toxic trait to overcome.

It's important to recognize and take action regarding mental health.

Group therapy can provide a supportive environment for sharing.

Calmness can lead to better mental health outcomes.

The concept of 'should' vs. 'could' can impact mental well-being.

Creating spaces where you can be yourself is essential.

It's okay to seek help and build supportive communities.

Enjoying the process of conversation can lead to personal insights.