Today we’re joined by Benji — a barber, father, and mental health advocate — who is on a mission to change the conversation around men’s mental health.

Drawing from his own lived experience, including personal struggles and the loss of loved ones to suicide, Benji speaks openly about pain, resilience, and healing.

In this episode, we explore how his childhood and adolescence shaped his identity, the challenges he navigated along the way, and how vulnerability and authenticity were central to his growth.

At its core, this conversation is about encouraging men to speak up, redefining strength, and recognising vulnerability as a powerful pathway to healing.

Takeaways

• Childhood dynamics significantly shape our identities and coping mechanisms.
• Adolescence is a critical time for self-discovery and understanding one's place in the world.
• Vulnerability is essential for authentic connections and personal growth.
• Reinvention is a continuous process that requires self-reflection and honesty.
• The stigma surrounding mental health can hinder open conversations and support.
• Building a supportive network is crucial for personal development and healing.
• Listening and empathy are powerful tools in helping others navigate their struggles.
• Finding purpose through adversity can lead to meaningful change in oneself and the community.

Find Ben:

IG: @male.mind.podcast

https://open.spotify.com/show/74di64rBQG8gqvhcw4y1Ak

Today we’re joined by Miles Furnell - an independent writer, theorist and practitioner who has spent more than three decades applying insights from cognitive behavioural science and motivational psychology to help organisations to engage, influence and inspire people all around the world, winning more than 80 international awards along the way.

In this episode, Miles shares insights from his new book, discussing the Mind Frame Method, which helps individuals reframe their stories and habits to lead more authentic lives. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding scripts and beliefs, the effects of trauma and grief, and the significance of finding purpose in everyday actions.

milesfurnell.com

www.linkedin.com/in/miles-furnell

@milesfurnell

Book:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Reframe-Story-Rewire-Habits-Rescript-ebook/dp/B0FP5KPXD8

Takeaways

• Finding purpose is about what you do, not a destination.
• Scripts are learned behaviours that can be reframed.
• The Mind Frame Method helps rewire habits and beliefs.
• Self-soothing can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms.
• Trauma impacts our worldview and self-perception.
• Grief and trauma require different approaches to healing.
• Connecting with others can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Authenticity is key to living a fulfilling life.
• Most people are navigating life without a clear plan.
• Reflection and perspective are essential for personal growth

I met today’s guest, Katey, while backpacking through Vietnam. We crossed paths on the infamous Ha Giang Loop and ended up travelling together for a while — sharing countless special moments and thought-provoking conversations. It didn’t take long for me to know I had to bring her onto the podcast to share some of those wonderful insights, reminisce on our adventures, and document the experience.

In this episode, we explore the real side of solo travel — from the expectations and reasons we set off in the first place, to surrendering to spontaneity, embracing solitude, and navigating the not-so-glamorous realities of budget backpacking.

We dive into the emotional load of long-term travel, the lessons in resilience and adaptability, and how adventures abroad can completely reshape your values and priorities. We also talk about the often-overlooked “post-travel come down” — that bittersweet return home where the world feels unchanged, but you know you’re not the same.

Overall, it’s a wholesome, giggly conversation where we reflect on our highlights, those magical unplanned moments, how we’ve grown and evolved, and the relief we feel at having taken that leap to book a one-way ticket. Our hope is that it inspires you to take yours too.