This special milestone episode of Minds on the Mersey marks Episode 20 — a celebration of growth, graft, guests, and the community that’s carried the podcast from a small idea to a fully‑fledged platform for honest conversations about men’s mental health.

Sam and Richie kick things off with their usual chaos, laughter, and a bit of self‑roasting, before reflecting on how far the show has come. Across twenty episodes, they’ve hit 3,000+ streams, built a loyal following, partnered with three sponsors, and welcomed 22 incredible guests from all walks of life — from veterans and charity founders to football icons, podcasters, and people with powerful lived experiences. They revisit standout moments, favourite stories, unexpected lessons, and the guests who blew their minds, opened their hearts, or nearly set Richie on fire with hot sauce.

There’s plenty of classic MOTM humour too: broken chairs, blinding studio lights, ginger‑beard debates, and Sam’s heroic quest to build the new mindsonthemersey.com website — complete with merch, support resources, and every episode in one place.

Listeners also send in their Weekly Wins, from gym mishaps to reusable‑bag triumphs, proving that small victories matter just as much as the big ones.

Sam is then joined by Macaulay South, who talks about The Prevention Project CIC, gambling harm, recovery, and the reality behind an addiction that often hides in plain sight. Macaulay tells us all about his Crowdfunder and the reasons behind having to set it up.

In part two, the lads sit down with Max Ashken, who recently swam the English Channel solo in just over ten hours. Max shares the physical and mental battle behind the swim, the moment he nearly broke, how he trained for a year straight, and why he dedicated the challenge to his dad while raising over £20,000 for Mind. His story is raw, inspiring, and full of lessons about resilience, purpose, and pushing beyond what you think is possible.

This episode is a celebration — of the guests, the listeners, the growth, the graft, and the mission: breaking stigma, building connection, and keeping the conversation going.

Prevention Project CIC & Crowdfunder: https://www.thepreventionproject.co.uk/ https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/the-prevention-project

Max Ashken's Just Giving: https://www.justgiving.com/page/max-ashken-2?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

For full episode archives, guest links, support resources, merch, and more, visit https://www.mindsonthemersey.com. You’ll also find direct links to all our socials and a dedicated Contact Us section where you can reach out, share your story, or get involved with the podcast.

If you’re struggling, please reach out — help is always available 💛

In the UK, you can contact:

• Samaritans — free, 24/7 at 116 123

• Mind — mental health support via 0300 123 3393 or text 86463

• Shout — text 85258 for confidential crisis support

You are not alone. Talking saves lives. 💛

This week’s episode of Minds on the Mersey is a raw, honest, and emotionally charged two‑part conversation that moves from humour and everyday chaos to one of the most powerful interviews the show has ever hosted.

Part One opens in classic Sam‑and‑Richie fashion: tired, wired, and laughing through the madness of the week. The lads dive straight into Richie’s ADHD medication update. The pair unpack the realities of living with ADHD in a way only they can: unfiltered, relatable, and funny.

But the tone shifts sharply when Sam brings up a BBC story about Bethany Hewitt, a young mum from Runcorn who waited three and a half years for an ADHD assessment and tragically died by suicide just 19 days after telling her GP she was struggling. The lads break down the failings in the system, the backlog of assessments, the flaws in suicide‑risk scoring, and the wider issue of people dismissing ADHD as “made up.” It’s one of the most serious and heartfelt discussions they’ve had — highlighting how dangerous it is when people fall through the cracks.

Part Two begins with Richie’s “fantastic fuck‑up” of the week — accidentally peeing on the cat — before the episode welcomes a deeply special guest: John Bell, bereaved father, endurance athlete, founder of Walking for Hope, and creator of the “Dad‑Pool” bathtub challenges. John speaks openly about losing his 15‑year‑old son Jake, the year he spent planning to join him, and the brutal process of rebuilding a life after unimaginable loss.

He shares how extreme endurance challenges became his lifeline — from carrying a bathtub covered in rubber ducks across the UK, to climbing mountains, to chasing fastest‑known‑times — all to honour Jake and support others facing grief, trauma, and suicidal thoughts. John talks about mental toughness, the myth of the “alpha male,” why men struggle to talk, and how building a personal “toolbox” can save lives when no one else is around at 3am.

The conversation is emotional, inspiring, and full of moments that stop you in your tracks. John’s honesty, resilience, and commitment to helping others make this one of the most powerful episodes to date.

By the end, the lads reflect on charity work, self‑care, and the importance of checking in on yourself as much as you check in on others. It’s an episode that swings from laughter to heartbreak to hope — exactly what Minds on the Mersey is all about.

Walking 4 Hope website: https://www.walking4hope.org

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

If you’re struggling, please reach out — help is always available 💛

In the UK, you can contact:

• Samaritans — free, 24/7 at 116 123

• Mind — mental health support via 0300 123 3393 or text 86463

• Shout — text 85258 for confidential crisis support

You are not alone. Talking saves lives. 💛

The latest Minds on the Mersey episode is a rollercoaster of emotion, humour, and raw honesty — starting with football hangovers and ending with a story that spans continents.

Sam and Richie open the show in classic form: hungover banter, football misery, and relentless digs about Liverpool’s performance. After the laughs, they dive head‑first into one of the most heartbreaking stories of the year: the closure of Papyrus, the UK suicide‑prevention charity behind the 24/7 Hopeline247.

The lads discuss what the loss means for people in crisis, how charities like Papyrus take pressure off the NHS, and why government support for mental‑health services is failing. They read statements from Papyrus trustees describing the unbearable decision to close after 30 years of saving lives. Their message is clear — suicide prevention isn’t optional; it’s a public‑health responsibility.

From there, Sam and Richie talk about Prince William’s visit to Merseyside to launch the On Your Side project, using sport to break stigma and open conversations around mental health. They reflect on their own experiences with the Mersey Mind Project, the power of men talking openly, and the growing community around their podcast.

Then, in part two, the energy shifts as they welcome Luke Leyland, the first Westerner to compete in Dambe — a thousand‑year‑old Nigerian combat sport. Luke recounts his wild journey: ignored warnings of danger, landed in Lagos to find a man holding an iPhone with his face on it, and fought in front of crowds who first doubted him but later embraced him. He lost the fight but won the hearts of the people, earning a tribal name and releasing his documentary Dambatori Kadawa on Amazon Prime.

Luke’s story is equal parts hilarious and profound — from spiritual rituals and black‑magic traditions to the moment he realised his “Birkenhead problems” weren’t so big after all. He closes by sharing his work with the Wick Foundation, a Merseyside group promoting walking, talking, and community support for mental health.

It’s an episode that captures everything Minds on the Mersey stands for: real talk, laughter, and life‑saving conversations.

Joel Evans Fundraiser in memory of his grandad Peter : https://www.justgiving.com/page/joel-evans-1

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

If you’re struggling, please reach out — help is always available 💛

In the UK, you can contact:

• Samaritans — free, 24/7 at 116 123

• Mind — mental health support via 0300 123 3393 or text 86463

• Shout — text 85258 for confidential crisis support

You are not alone. Talking saves lives. 💛

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 at 29, a few weeks before her brothers wedding. 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

"I hid my trauma behind drugs and alcohol"

"I can't be the reason my kids turn out like me"

"If you want it, you'll get it"

In this episode, Lee Orrell shares his remarkable journey from childhood trauma, addiction, and incarceration to becoming an advocate for change through his Beyond the Gate Training Academy. His story highlights the power of lived experience in transforming lives and the importance of second chances.

But in the first section, we catch up with Jess Trigg, who deputises for Richie as our first ever guest host! We discuss community projects, mental health, and recent legal changes in the UK, including the Hillsborough law. We also delve into sleep's impact on mental health, local initiatives, and current events.

takeaways

• Lived experience is a powerful tool in helping others and driving change
• Second chances can transform lives when supported by the right tools and community
• Open conversations about mental health reduce stigma and save lives
• Prison can be a place of rehabilitation if proper programs are in place
• Building a business and purpose can be a path to recovery and self-worth

Show Links:

Ian Byrne gives an emotional speech in parliament as the Hillsborough Law is finally passed:

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1E3z3mdbKM/

A BBC video explaining all about the new Hillsborough Law:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/c4gygv589v0o

Lee’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lee.orrell87?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Beyond The Gate Training Academy: https://www.beyondthegatetraining.co.uk

Jess & Positivity Club CIC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivityclubcic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Positivity Club CIC Website: https://www.positivityclubcic.co.uk/

Podcast Website & Socials:

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