Episode summary introduction:

Join TC & Maddog this episode as they continue their dialogue into Men’s mental health and deeper, the emotional challenges to the spectrum of the very human experience of suicide.

The title of this episode comes from Metallica’s 2023 song. The song is about the "taboo word of suicide" and to communicate the "darkness we feel inside of us", further adding how people cannot deny that they have had dark thoughts at one point in their lives. In the same statement he continues:

"To face it is to speak the unspoken. If it's a human experience, we should be able to talk about it. You are not alone."

Joining TC & Maddog is G-Train who we welcome to our podcast for the second time.

In this episode G-Train shares his own challenges with mental health and how calling the help line allowed him to reach out and get the support he needed. G-Train serves as an inspiration for those struggling themselves to take action and reach out.

The episode encourages others to engage in the dialogue into Men’s mental health.

Thought for the Day:

“If you don’t work on keeping good mental health, in the end nothing works. “

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The importance of learning the signs when one is faced with emotional turmoil;
• Normalizing the fact that most if not all of us struggle with our mental health at one time or another in our lives.
• Why men hesitate to reach out when they are struggling;
• .G-Train's personal experience in his struggles to reach out when he was in a time of need and what he did;
• How to have a conversation with someone you believe is struggling;
• Encouraging more men to engage in the dialogue.
• A heartfelt message from Adrian Francis’ sister, Raevin, that really hits home:

“Talking about checking in with mental health awareness is wonderful but sharing a few words on how to respond when someone reaches out to you and knowing the signs. A lot of people do not know how to respond or see the signs when someone is struggling…Deep down, when things get serious and someone opens up knowing how to respond can be helpful. Responding in a thoughtful and compassionate way can make a difference to someone who is struggling.”

Walkabout takeaways:

• In this podcast episode, we emphasize the importance of mental health discussions among men, encouraging open dialogues about personal struggles.
• We highlight that no individual should have to navigate life's challenges in isolation, stressing the value of community support.
• Our conversation aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding men's mental health, advocating for vulnerability and the expression of emotions.
• We recognize that reaching out for help is a courageous step and crucial for personal well-being, particularly in moments of despair.

Help is available-Speak with someone today

Anywhere in Canada: 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline

• Creating a supportive environment for young men in sports is critical to encouraging them to share their feelings and seek help when necessary.
• “Learn the Signs:

It may not be obvious when a person is suicidal but learning the specific warning signs can help you notice when a person may be at risk.

Not everyone who shows a warning sign is considering suicide.”

Please go to this website “https://11ofus.edmonton.ca/”

Men’s Mental Health Resources:

“Heads up Guys”

Episode summary introduction:

Maddog & TC are in the studio to take you on a journey to encourage more dialogue to better manage men's mental health.

Joining on this journey is Bob Reist, Head Coach of our very own Valley Huskers. The Huskers belong to the Canadian Junior Football league and play in the British Columbia Football Conference. Bob will share insights on the importance of recognizing mental health challenges and the vital role that communication plays in alleviating these burdens.

Take this journey with us and make that commitment to reach out and engage in the dialogue to encourage those who are struggling to reach out for support in their time of need.

Our thought for the day”:

“When we repress our feelings , we not only hurt ourselves but the ones who love us. Sharing really is caring, especially when it comes to our mental health”

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Startling statistics relating to men’s mental health;
• Myths associated with men's mental health;
• The importance of open dialogue surrounding emotional well-being and some of the surrounding challenges why men don’t;
• The cultural expectations that dictate a strong, silent masculinity, particularly within the context of competitive sports. Bob shares insights from his experience as a football coach, the episode illustrates the unique challenges faced by athletes who often feel pressured to conform to traditional notions of toughness.
• Learning the signs & having “the conversation” checking in on mental health.
• Maddog and Bob share their his personal experiences losing people close to them to suicide including a member of the Valley Husker family, Adrian Francis, a former player.
• Retiring Adrian’s jersey and meeting his family during this ceremony;
• Vulnerability is not synonymous with weakness, the discussion advocates for a collective approach to mental health, encouraging listeners to prioritize emotional well-being and extend their support to those around them.
• This episode not only informs but also inspires action, urging individuals to take steps towards creating a more supportive and understanding community for men's mental health.

Walkabout takeaways:

• It is essential for men to learn to express their feelings openly, as repression can lead to detrimental mental health consequences.
• In the pursuit of mental health awareness, it is paramount that we acknowledge the gravity of men's struggles and the importance of open dialogue.
• There are professionals you can reach out to when you find yourself struggling with your own mental health.
• A heartfelt message from Adrian’s mother, Connie:

“...Adrian was very forgiving and wouldn't want his team mates to feel bad he would want them to succeed and to push forward and maybe this is part of it is to reach out during tough times even if one tough day gets you, go be with a buddy not to get to much into your own mind..”

• Help is available-Speak with someone today

Anywhere in Canada: 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline

• Creating a supportive environment for young men in sports is critical to encouraging them to share their feelings and seek help when necessary.

Men’s Mental Health Resources:

“Heads up Guys”

https://headsupguys.org/depression-in-men/

And Finally, check out this website for more information and resources:

“UBC Men’s Health Research Program”

Episode summary introduction:

The principle theme of this podcast episode revolves around the critical importance of honesty as a cornerstone of integrity. TC & Maddog share how important it is to share life with others in both the ups and downs. It will be the downs that bind us together.

As we navigate through various life scenarios, we confront the challenges of maintaining honesty and the repercussions of dishonesty.

Join us as we explore the interplay between honesty and moral dilemmas, urging listeners to consider the right course of action in challenging situations.

Get ready for this introspective journey as we examine the nuances of honesty and its profound impact on our character and relationships.

Topics discussed in this episode:

Exploring the essence of honesty, TC recounts a personal experience that sparked his curiosity about this value. The speakers delve into the lyrics of Billy Joel's song 'Honesty' as a springboard for discussion, highlighting the sentiment that honesty is seldom heard but is crucial for authentic relationships.

They examine the necessity of honesty in various facets of life, from parenting to workplace dynamics. The dialogue also touches on the nuances of delivering honest feedback and how the manner of communication can greatly affect the reception of one's honesty. Through practical examples, the speakers underscore that honesty, when delivered thoughtfully, can enhance trust and facilitate deeper connections

Walkabout takeaways:

• The essence of our podcast, Electronic Walkabout, is to talk about the important things in life.
• Honesty serves as a cornerstone of integrity and is crucial in our lives.
• We explore the importance of being honest and the challenges that arise in real-life scenarios.
• Engaging in open dialogues enhances trust and communication within relationships and friendships.
• It is essential to deliver honest feedback with tact to avoid unnecessary hurt.
• Practicing honesty consistently helps build character and reinforces one's integrity over time.

More about E-Walkabout:

To learn more about Electronic Walkabout visit us at www.ewalkabout.ca.

If you want to read more “Thoughts of the Day” check out TC’s Book at Amazon:

"St. Mike's Fortunes"

A special thanks to Steven Kelly, our technical advisor, who keeps trying to teach these old dogs new tricks when it comes to sounds and recording!!

“Remember to take advantage of the moment before the moment takes advantage of you!”