This episode of Minds on the Mersey brings everything the podcast stands for: honesty, humour, connection and conversations that actually matter.

Sam and Richie kick things off with their usual chaos — swearing, football chat, Cornwall stories, kittens destroying curtains, and a look behind the scenes of filming a professional advert for Historic Newspapers. There’s talk about mental health, suicide statistics in Merseyside, Richie’s BBC Radio appearance, and how ADHD medication has changed his day‑to‑day life.

Then we move into a powerful, emotional and genuinely inspiring conversation with Zoe, host of Grief Is My New Hobby. Zoe shares her story of losing both parents before turning 30 — her dad to suicide when she was 15, and her mum unexpectedly just months ago. She talks openly about grief, identity, community, the language we use around suicide, and how she’s building a space where people can talk without shame.

This is one of the most honest and heartfelt interviews we’ve ever recorded. If you’ve experienced grief, if you’re supporting someone who has, or if you just want to hear real people talk about real life — this episode is for you.

Topics in this episode:

• Cornwall stories and unexpected reunions
• Football returning and matchday escapism
• Behind the scenes of filming a professional advert
• Suicide statistics in Merseyside
• Mersey Mindset charity bike ride
• Richie’s BBC Radio appearance
• ADHD medication and mental health
• Zoe’s story: losing both parents
• “Died by suicide” vs “committed suicide”
• Building a grief community
• Waffle Wednesday — men talking honestly

About Minds on the Mersey

A podcast about strong minds, real talk and positive mental health for men. Breaking stigma, opening conversations, and proving that talking is strength.

Minds on the Mersey Website: https://www.mindsonthemersey.co.uk

Minds on the Mersey Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindsonthemersey/

Minds on the Mersey Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584932450006

Minds on the Mersey TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@minds.on.the.mers

Merch can be found here: https://www.tshirtstudio.com/marketplace/motm

Zoe & her Podcast Greif is my New Hobby Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefismynewhobby?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==