Bringing you the seventh episode of our Tackling it Together Podcast- “Strength in Vulnerability” - our guest Kev McIntosh gives an emotional account of his inspirational journey.

Kev is a Business Owner, Rugby Coach, Husband, Proud Dad and a friend to many and an all round top bloke! It was a pleasure to sit down with Kev and talk openly about how he has overcome some of the most difficult times of his life.

Exploring some very emotional topics, Kev gives us an insight into his mindset during a period of his life when he experienced suicidal thoughts, and his subsequent journey to seeking support and living a full and happy life. Kev provides some inspiring reflections and in sharing his own experiences demonstrates how it is possible to turn a corner and see light at the end of the tunnel.

Ade and Kev also discuss their shared experiences of experiencing vulnerability and trauma from a father’s perspective, and open up about how such tough experiences can teach us to harness our vulnerabilities to make us stronger, better parents.

Kev shares his motivation for telling his story - to be open and honest and to help raise awareness and connect with people who are struggling. To provide hope and strength and demonstrate how powerful speaking out and accessing support can be. A truly remarkable man who’s openness and strength will inspire many others. Thank you Kev.

TRIGGER WARNING - This Podcast includes discussion around Suicidal Ideation, and reference to Paediatric Cardiac Conditions/Surgery.

#mentalwellbeing #wellbeinginconstruction #cardiacparents #tacklethestigma #mensmentalhealthmatters #tacklingittogether #littleblackbird

In our fifth episode of our Tackling it Together Podcast "Giving back to the best game in the world", our guest Mark Shotton, one of the founders of the leading Rugby Mental Health charity Looseheadz, gives us an inspiring insight into their work.

Mark talks us through why Looseheadz was established and their vision and ambitions for the future.

On a mission to place a Mental Health lead at every rugby club in the world, Mark describes how what started as a conversation between friends in a local rugby club has grown into the charity that Looseheadz is today.

Sharing his thoughts on how important it is for him to give back to a sport that has given him so much personally, Mark gives us his perspective on the power Rugby has to support mental well-being, and explores his views on what vulnerability means both on and off the pitch.

#mentalwellbeing #wellbeinginrugby #tacklethestigma #looseheadz #tacklingittogether #littleblackbird

The second part of our Tackling it Together episode” Let your past make you Better, not Bitter” is here, with one half of Smash Life, Matt Smith. Smash Life offer inspirational talks, group work, mentoring and support for professionals and young people and was founded by brothers Matt & Andy Smith who grew up in the UK care system. In the second part of an inspiring conversation, Matt talks to us about his experiences of care and his passion to use his lived experiences to support young people and challenge and shape the mindsets of professionals. Matt explores the huge impact music has had on his journey and the cathartic power of music for processing trauma. Matt gives us a fascinating insight into the creative approach Smash Life take with young people, and the impact it has. Discussing key themes around the importance of connection and legacy, Matt speaks emotionally about the need for all young people to know that there is an adult in their life who really cares about them. A truly remarkable and inspiring story of two brothers and their passion and drive to achieve genuine change! #caresystem #demonstratingvulnerability#smashlife #tacklingittogether #littleblackbird