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==

"The hardest battle is always with yourself."

In the second section, Kam Murry, also known as Outdoor Cam, shares his journey from founding Raw ‘n’ Real, a men's mental health charity, to his personal experiences with fitness, mental resilience, and community building. We explore innovative approaches to mental health, the importance of physical activity, and practical ideas for supporting men's well-being. We also explore the power of mental resilience, the impact of cold water therapy, and the importance of small daily habits in building a stronger mindset. Featuring insights from Kam, Sam and Richie, this conversation offers practical tips and inspiring stories to help you push through challenges and develop resilience.

But, in the first section, Richie and Sam share their recent festival experiences, discuss mental health initiatives, and explore new hobbies like fishing and fitness tracking. They also touch on the future of community mental health services and the importance of lived experience in healthcare.

Show Links:

Walk-in mental health centers to open in banks and libraries across England:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cpd76e737ljo

Kam’s Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/outdoor.kam?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Raw’N’Real:

https://www.instagram.com/rnr.nw?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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

SLM GP:

https://www.SLMGP.co.uk

"It takes a lot to own who you are."

In this episode, Richie shares a deeply personal story about his father's terminal illness and the complex emotions involved. We also cover topics like mental health, coping with loss, and the importance of reaching out for support.

In part two, we explore the inspiring journeys of Ian and Nath from More Than Men, a community initiative based in Warrington. They share their personal experiences with mental health, addiction, and how they've built a supportive network to help men overcome stigma and isolation.

And it wouldn’t be an episode of Minds on the Mersey without technical issues would it! So expect plenty of that too.

key topics

Richie’s experience with his father’s terminal illness

The emotional conflict of loss and regret

The importance of support and communication in grief

Mental health challenges during difficult times

The role of family and friends in coping with loss

Personal journeys with mental health and addiction

The founding and growth of More Than Men

Challenges faced in establishing support groups

The importance of community and peer support

Innovative activities like sports and wellbeing programs

Addressing stigma around men's mental health

The role of tailored therapy and mental health services

Building trust and breaking barriers in support groups

The importance of informal, relaxed environments

Future plans and expansion of support initiatives

takeaways

Sharing personal stories can help others feel less alone in their struggles.

Deciding whether to reconnect with a lost family member is complex and personal.

Support networks and open communication are vital during times of grief.

It’s normal to feel conflicted and unsure about how to react to loss.

Seeking help and talking about feelings can aid in emotional healing.

More Than Men:

https://morethanmen.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/more_thanmen?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557862994590

Minds on the Mersey:

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