On Episode 78, Sunny Bahuguna sits with Chris Burnett. 

In 2020, Chris started a personal project to reconnect with people in his life. It started with weekly calls to catch up. Then, he began asking if he could interview them about their lives.

To date, Chris has recorded more than 75 conversations. After seeing the impact this project had on himself and his people, he decided to share the idea with a broader audience. His book, Conversations: Connecting with People in Our Lives, was released in November.

Funnily enough, I was introduced to Chris by a mutual friend, another Chris, whom we have had on the podcast. Having these deep conversations with people we care about is so important. It strengthens our relationships and allows us a better perspective of our people and ourselves.

In this episode you’ll hear about:

• Chris’s earlier years: Struggling with bullying, growing up Scottish and being vulnerable in a masculine environment, and his relationship with his father.
• Chris’s project: how it began (catching up with one person a week) and how that grew into him reaching out for recorded interviews, and then, a book
• Interview format – the wording Chris used during his initial contact, and how he structures the phone conversations
• How these deep conversations can help the person “interviewed” feel special, and how the interviews rekindled lots of relationships for Chris
• My personal story on my relationship with friends and family
• How the experience helped Chris learn about his friends and family and reflect on his own life and childhood

Chris has invited us all to reach out to someone to reconnect, invite them out or call them on the phone. Let them know you want to catch up and find out how they are, showing them that they are important to you. You get to remind them of their worth, and in that, you will feel yours.

Podcast is available wherever you get your episodes - Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more. 💙

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine (Australia) - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

NHS (UK) - Urgent mental health support https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mental-health-helpline

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

On Episode 77, Sunny Bahuguna sits with Terry Cornick.

In his early 20s, Terry was coming home from work every few months feeling “seriously depressed and suicidal”. He grew up in a “stoic” British environment where he was accustomed to burying his feelings. Feeling like he needed a change in his life, Terry followed his friend to Australia. 

But even on Australian soil, he suffered the old combo of depression and anxiety for much of his life. Terry, now a father of 3, through a personal journey, decided to host a BBQ in the park for other men to have somewhere to go and chat about things like mental health issues. Little did he know, that would eventually turn into a very successful, helpful, nationwide grassroots charity called Mr. Perfect.

“I'm not religious in any way but I feel like someone has given me three boys and it’s my mission to raise them in a way that is loving and caring, knowing they have all the resources available when they feel upset.”

Hope you enjoy the listen as much as I enjoyed speaking with him. Available wherever you get your episodes. 💙

____

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-sophie-martin-b6ab8884/

Medium Article: https://medium.com/non-disclosure/the-20-that-may-make-you-lose-your-mind-2555cd43a8bd

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine (Australia) - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

NHS (UK) - Urgent mental health support https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mental-health-helpline

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In Episode 76, Sunny Bahuguna sits down with Anne-Sophie Martin.

From her roots in Montreal to her experience in New York at a top management consultancy and her time at Stanford, Anne-Sophie's story is one of resilience, introspection, and growth.

Anne-Sophie's upbringing was filled with family warmth and a love for dance and sports. Her transition to New York brought success but also challenges, navigating anxiety and mental health stigma. This often manifests differently for different people, but for her, it was characterised by hair loss, facial swelling, and fluctuations in her appetite. She eventually made the difficult decision to take medical leave—a choice met with curiosity and misunderstanding from her peers. But it was through this process that she found a growing interest in mental health.

Last year, she penned a piece on Medium titled "The 20% that may make you lose your mind." It recounted a moment at a wedding where she crossed paths with a Stanford alum who graduated over a decade ago. After sharing her well-rehearsed spiel about her own experience being "incredible" and filled with personal growth, the alum shared the contrary: "Stanford was the two hardest, most stressful years of my life."

This candid admission caught her off guard and prompted deep reflection. We delve deeper into the story and Anne-Sophie's experience at Stanford—the mixture of highs and lows—and her efforts to shed light on the often-overlooked struggles that challenge students' mental health, starting with her own story. This is the unspoken 20%.

Now, after graduating from Stanford, Anne-Sophie shares insights into the chapter ahead—what self-care looks like, how writing has become a meditative experience, and what lies ahead for her.

Hope you enjoy the listen as much as I enjoyed speaking with her. Available wherever you get your episodes. 💙

____

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-sophie-martin-b6ab8884/

Medium Article: https://medium.com/non-disclosure/the-20-that-may-make-you-lose-your-mind-2555cd43a8bd

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine (Australia) - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

NHS (UK) - Urgent mental health support https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mental-health-helpline

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

TW: Talks about suicide.

I sometimes pinch myself with the guests we get on Bottled Up and this week is no exception.

Only 1% of those who attempt suicide by jumping off of the Golden Gate Bridge survive, and Kevin Hines is one of those people. Fuelled by a history of struggle with depression and bi-polar disorder, Kevin thought the bridge would be the easiest way to die, yet the first thing he felt after clearing the railing was - regret. Hines fell about 240 feet in just four seconds. He crashed feet first into the waters below, crushing spinal vertebrae and breaking an ankle. But he survived.

Today, Kevin is a world renowned speaker, best selling author, and mental health advocate who uses his powerful personal story to save lives. He talks openly about what it feels like to live with "brain pain," the extraordinary circumstances around his survival after the jump, his experience in psych wards, the common denominator of people who consider suicide, and how the simple act of showing kindness to someone in emotional pain can save their life.

Kevins story embodies hope though, and the key message of reaching out for help which he shares with millions of people around the globe.

Join Sunny Bahuguna for Episode 75 as Kevin shares his story.

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthieukomorowski/

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine (Australia) - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

NHS (UK) - Urgent mental health support https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mental-health-helpline

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

TW: Talks about suicide.

The December and January break is often seen as a time of joy and celebration, but for some, it can be a lonely and challenging place.

In Episode 74, we delve into the raw and courageous story of James Tyreman, who opens up about his struggles during the early days of the COVID lockdown in 2020.

When the pandemic struck, James found himself isolated for the first three months of lockdown, separated from his partner and three daughters. Alone in a small house down south in the UK, many things had slowly bubbled up to the point where he reached a breaking point and attempted to take his own life in March 2020.

He has since been on the journey of recovery. There have been some bad days and some good days. The power of a single conversation can change someone's day from bad to manageable.

The video below captures James in November 2023, at his worst. Does it make him look weak? Absolutely not. He shares this courageously with the hope that it will go some way to normalising that men cry too, and it's okay to talk about it, and to encourage others feeling similar to do the same.

Thankfully, someone there to talk to give him a hug and be there.

This post is a reminder to be kind, to check in on your colleagues, to not forget there is a person behind the screen, and to make time for each other. Let's break the silence surrounding mental health and encourage open conversations.

Join Sunny Bahuguna for Episode 74 as James shares his story.

______________

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthieukomorowski/

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine (Australia) - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

NHS (UK) - Urgent mental health support https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mental-health-helpline

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In the captivating Episode 73, Sunny and Mayank sit down for a thought-provoking conversation with Matthieu Komorowski, a Senior Lecturer at Imperial College in London and an Honorary Consultant in Intensive Care and Anaesthesia at the NHS. From from the East of France originally, Matthieu opens up about his upbringing as the middle child in a middle-class family—a crucial aspect that has significantly shaped his emotional maturity.

Reflecting on his childhood, Matthieu shares how growing up in an emotionally immature family has influenced his present self. He candidly discusses how this background fueled his inner drive to "be someone" in order to garner recognition and value from his family and friends. This deeply rooted desire for validation led him on an ambitious path, one that saw him aspiring to become an astronaut. Matthieu recounts his experience of making it to the final 94 candidates for an astronaut position, only to face heartbreaking rejection due to a low heart rate.

Against the backdrop of Matthieu's personal journey, Mayank and Sunny navigate a discussion on the dangers of the happiness trap. They explore the complexities of the pursuit of happiness, the analysis paralysis that can accompany the quest for finding meaning and answers, and the toxic behaviors that can emerge when one is driven by an insatiable desire for more.

Join Mayank and Sunny in this introspective episode as they delve into the layers of Matthieu Komorowski's life, unpacking the intricacies of ambition, emotional resilience, and the pursuit of fulfillment in the face of setbacks.

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthieukomorowski/

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine (Australia) - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

NHS (UK) - Urgent mental health support https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mental-health-helpline

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In Episode 72, Sunny Bahuguna sits with Adeel Ahmad whilst on tour in the US.

Adeel Ahmad is host of the Misophonia Podcast where people share their experiences living with Misophonia - which can be misery for those who suffer from it, and yet they may not even know that it's a "thing." Misophonia involves being hypersensitive to certain types of sounds, commonly noises like slurps, chewing, and crunching-- and it can wreak havoc on families, emotional health, and relationships. But there is hope!

Join us for a remarkable discussion about Adeel's own story of misophonia, the way he's brought sufferers together, the surprising childhood factors that may contribute to it, and how people can have hope to ease their suffering. We go deep-- with empathy and compassion, and absolutely no crunching sounds-- we promise.

Check out Adeel's podcast, The Misophonia Podcast, with stories of people from all walks of life who are living with misophonia.

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The Misophonia Podcast: https://www.misophoniapodcast.com/

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In Episode 71, Sunny and Mayank sit down with the remarkable Nick Ferrier, a performance psychologist and the founder of Cede Nullius Psychology. Nick, in his own words, is on a mission to help athletes do the right thing at the right time, and his journey into the realm of performance psychology is nothing short of inspiring.

Growing up in the coastal town of Mornington, Nick's early years were shaped by his love for surfing and extreme sports. However, as fate would have it, his trajectory shifted towards competitive swimming. He pursued this path with unwavering dedication, aiming for elite-level competition. Unfortunately, a career-ending shoulder injury forced Nick to reevaluate his path.

It was during this challenging period that Nick discovered the world of performance psychology. Embracing the acceptance model, he learned to navigate big moments by embracing the nerves and the unknown. The episode explores the profound concept of obtaining competence over confidence—a journey of honing skills to such an extent that one can perform in any situation.

Nick shares insights into the acceptance model, shedding light on how embracing the inherent pressure and uncertainty of significant moments can be a transformative experience. He discusses techniques for implementing this model, emphasizing the importance of distilling the noise and pressure into repeatable behaviors that can be executed in any circumstance.

Listeners gain a glimpse into Nick's work with professional AFL athletes and businesses, where he applies his expertise to enhance performance. The episode is a captivating exploration of resilience, personal growth, and the transformative power of performance psychology.

Join Sunny and Mayank as they uncover the depths of Nick Ferrier's journey—from the thrill-seeking days of extreme sports to the nuanced world of performance psychology—in an episode that promises to inspire and enlighten.

In Episode 70, Sunny Bahuguna sits down with Christopher LeMark from Chicago, USA. 

Christopher LeMark takes us on his journey to manhood, allowing us to feel the struggle and heartache of a little boy that simply wanted to be seen and loved. We gain a glimpse into the child welfare system that so many Black people are fearful of.  It is this very fear that has served as the catalyst for Black families informally adopting their kin. However, blood relatives may not always be in the child’s best interest. At the hands of his own family, Christopher endured physical, mental, and emotional abuse. His isolation and anger had him bound to be a statistic. Christopher’s ability to tap into his imagination, express himself through writing and music, have built a foundation of resilience. Today, he speaks bravely about how he overcame his battles with depression and multiple suicide attempts and how he’s now providing free mental health services for those in the Chicagoland area through his successful foundation, Coffee, Hip-Hop and Mental Health. 

What once defined LeMark, became the thing that awakened him to rewrite history, seek help, and change the course of his life to become the better version of himself. He moves through fear, leads with integrity, and heals alongside his peers and the community. One of his greatest joys and accomplishments? The birth of his son and the cultivation of beautiful chosen family.

Available wherever you get your podcasts. 

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In Episode 69, we are honored to have Beau Brooks as our guest, a renowned figure from the Janoskians and a YouTube sensation who knows the ups and downs of fame all too well. His journey from early fame to a multifaceted perspective on success is a captivating story of transformation and reflection.

Beau candidly discusses how his definition of fame evolved over time, stripping away the glamour to reveal a deeper understanding of life's complexities. We also delve into the nuances of working with close friends and how this dynamic shifted as their careers soared.

A defining moment in Beau's journey was his transformation from within, recognizing that his physical health mirrored his mental state. This metamorphosis has turned him into somewhat of a tamed tiger, a symbol of resilience and personal growth. He'll also share insights from his experience with the messiah complex, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of fame and self-discovery.

Central to this conversation is Beau's newly released book, "Laugh Now, Cry Later," a memoir that uncovers his life story, mental health challenges, and the invaluable lessons he's gathered. Join us for a captivating and poignant episode that showcases the incredible journey of a man who has tamed his inner tiger and emerged as a compelling mental health advocate.

Join Sunny and Mayank wherever you get your podcasts -- Apple Podcast, Spotify, and more.

______________

Where can you find Beau:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beaupeterbrooks/

Where can you find Inaam:

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In Episode 68, Sunny and Mayank sat down with Angela Lim, a paediatric-trainee turned mental health technology entrepreneur, founding the company Clearhead.

Angela graduated from the University of Auckland’s medical school and started paediatrics training at Starship Hospital, but her passion for tackling inequality led her to take a break from clinical practice in order to focus on developing scalable innovative solutions in health. She has been involved in multiple research projects including during her sabbatical at the Harvard School of Public Health, which resulted in publications in international peer-reviewed journals. 

We dive deeper into her roots growing up in Malaysia, the role model her grandmother is for her, walking away from medicine and building a startup as a female leader, and so much more.

Join Sunny and Mayank wherever you get your podcasts -- Apple Podcast, Spotify, and more.

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In Episode 67, Sunny and Mayank sat down with Arjun Agarwal, where they explored two significant aspects of his life: the fine line between taking risks and being reckless, and the relationship with his Papa.

Arjun shared his journey from the familiar comforts of South Africa and moving to the unknown challenges of Melbourne for his university education. He painted a vivid picture of those early days, scraping by paycheck to paycheck, highlighting the courage it takes to venture into the unfamiliar.

The conversation then turned to the deeply personal connection with his family. Arjun opened up about how his view of his father shifted over time, from being a hero to a more complex figure and shared the challenges of dealing with his father's passing and the relationship with his mother, his best friend.

Arjun Agarwal's story reminds us of the universal themes of risk, loss, and healing, and how these experiences shape our lives. Join Sunny and Mayank as they delve into these heartfelt moments in this special episode.

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Where can you find Arjun:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunagarwal1996/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arjspeaks/

Where can you find Inaam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inaam-impact-investments-pty-ltd/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inaam_yourmoney/

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In Episode 66, Mayank and Sunny sit down with the legend herself, Ashani Dante, also known as Mandy.

She is a thought leader, speaker, visionary and Founder of Flourish Girl, with a proven track record in the social impact & business space. Flourish Girl is a mission-driven charity focused on promoting feminine leadership and young women's mental health. With a background in speech pathology and thousands of hours working alongside leading schools, Ashani has become a powerful voice for mental health advocacy among young women and gender diverse adolescents.

Over the past seven years, Ashani has grown Flourish Girl from an idea into a highly successful charity, alongside her team that has impacted the lives of over 17,000 teenage girls and gender diverse teens across more than 100 schools in Australia. Her work has earned the recognition from various organizations, including 40 under 40 Most Influential Asian Australian and 7 News Young Achievers Award 2022.

Ashani's journey of self-discovery and cultural reclamation has inspired countless women to embrace their unique identities and celebrate their cultural heritage. She is an advocate for cultural diversity and inclusion, encouraging everyone to forge a more compassionate and understanding world.

Widely recognises as a unique voice in this space, she has been an ambassador, speaker and writer for brands such as Channel 10 (Studio 10, T2, Kikki K, MYOB, Supre, Saari Collective, Ashani continues to expand her reach and inspire positive change in the world. Her impact is nothing short of extraordinary, and she is destined to be a conscious leader of our time, guiding and uplifting women everywhere. Ashani Dante is a trailblazer, a guiding light, and an inspiration to us all.

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Where can you find Mandy Dante:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashani-mandy-dante-57453197/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashanidante/

Where can you find the Flourish Girl

LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-girl/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishgirl_/

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

This episode is a little different to what we've covered in the past. Nearly 40% of our audience comprises women, which is not surprising considering the vital roles they play in the lives of many men, whether as partners, sisters, or mothers.

Historically, women's health has been underrepresented and heavily stigmatised, and this continues to be perpetuated by the lack of funding and research in this field. It's no surprise that our knowledge in comparison to men's health is quite limited.

In Episode 65, Sunny and Mayank invite Anna Dokuchaev to change this narrative. We speak about:

• Anna's increasing interest in public health and her personal experiences in navigating her health journey.
• Endometriosis, a condition that affects more than 1 in 10 women.
• The role of contraception in our bodies and its complexities (including an anecdote Anna shares of her friend with an IUD).

We also explore how men can better support women in their lives, and much more. We hope you enjoy this episode.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and more.

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As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

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Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

With the Rugby World Cup a week away and Father's Day just past, in our first guest episode back, we sit down with the Rugby legend himself, Dean Mumm

Dean is a retired Rugby Union legend with a professional career spanning over 100 appearances for the NSW Waratahs, 3 years in the UK playing for Exeter and 56 caps for the Australian Wallabies.

Outside of his inspiring sports career and transition into business, Dean opens up about his journey to fatherhood, and the troubles he shared with his wife Sarah had with preterm birth. Sadly, of the six children they had, four were lost due to preterm birth.

Dean provides insight into the strength and resilience required to get through this experience, what he’s learnt on the power of connection, the value on life no matter how many years and his and Sarah’s mission to raise funds for research into reducing the prevalence and impact of preterm birth through their charity BorneHMRI.  

We hope you enjoy this one.

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As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

---

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Sunny and Mayank get behind the mic for the first time in-person since Episode #1. This one is coming straight from London.

We reflect on the Bottled Up journey so far, why we started and where we've come. We also take the mask off and share parts of our own personal story and what has shaped us.

We've got a lineup right through to the end of the year, so stay tuned and buckle up for weekly episodes. (👀)

In this episode we chat about:

🔥 The impetus for Bottled Up and rewinding the clock back to February 2020 when had our first dinner planning the podcast.

🔥 What has Sunny got planned? Leaving his job in Melbourne and travelling for the next few months, including what drove the decision.

🔥 The story behind how we became good friends with someone after a random encounter on the street (😮).

🔥 Mayank's 50km run in London.

🔥 + Both of us trying our luck at comedy.

Enjoy the listen and stay tuned for the guest line up over the coming days.

---

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

---

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Get ready for an inspiring and thought-provoking episode! Join Sunny and Mayank as they sit down with the remarkable Chris Hope, the brains behind the 100 Coffee Movement initiative. Chris takes us on a profound journey, sharing his personal experience of starting up this incredible movement with a mission to combat disconnection and create a sense of belonging within local communities and beyond.

As the conversation unfolds, Chris, Sunny, and Mayank dive into the crucial role that human connection plays in our lives, and how technology can either aid or hinder our ability to form meaningful relationships. They also explore the delicate balance between convenience and connection, which is often overlooked in today's fast-paced world.

The three also delve into the power of self-reflection and gratitude, and how identifying our core values can lead us to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by this captivating discussion.

Hope you enjoy the listen. 💙

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Where can you find Chris Hope:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishope/

You can also find some of Chris' deeply insightful articles on social connection, here:

https://connectionsbrewing.substack.com/

Where can you find the 100 Coffee Movement:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/100coffeemovement/

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There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

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On Episode 61, Sunny Bahuguna and Mayank Sohani sit down with Jean-Pierre Vertil (JP).

JP is full of zest for life. His energetic, enthralling and full of enthusiasm. Don't believe us? Give it a listen. 😉

We speak about life growing up in Haiti, his experiences at Stanford and friendships formed. What is clear in JP's story is his value on belonging, not only his own sense of belonging, but how he creates a safe space for others as well. The intentionality is incredible.

We also chat about our relationship with parents, friends, what carving out time for our own self-care looks like and plans for the future.

Hope you enjoy the listen. 💙

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Where can you find JP:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpvertil/

https://www.jpvertil.com/

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There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

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Boom! We're live.

No better way to kick off the new season than a re-introduction to a fan favourite, Tom Boyd.

Tommy joined us 18 months ago for his first episode with Bottled Up and has taken the courageous step to get back into the arena. Glad we didn't scare him away the first time. 😉

What's changed? Not much, other than the fact that his picked up two new hats, one as a Father, and the second as an Author.

On this episode we touch on many new topics, including:

• The process and journey he has been on behind his new book, Nowhere to Hide: A memoir of football, mental health and resilience.
• An even deeper dive into his mental health journey and life after football. Tom talks candidly about his mindset right after high school, and then again after hanging up the boots.
• Reflections on COVID-19 - losing his source of income, bouncing back, and the renovation of his new house.
• What lies ahead as he embarks into fatherhood with a beautiful young girl.
• And many more topics.

Buckle up and enjoy the listen. 💙

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In case you're wondering, who is Tom Boyd?

Tom Boyd lived the dream of many young Australians. As the 2013 AFL number 1 draft pick, he was marked as a future superstar in his sport. Fame and money were guaranteed, all the more so when he returned home to Melbourne to join the Western Bulldogs on a record-breaking $7 million contract.

But success as a footballer came at a cost Tom wasn't prepared to pay. The intense scrutiny from media and the public added to the enormous expectations he placed upon himself, creating a toxic cycle of insomnia, anxiety and depression. Even being part of the Bulldogs' famous drought-breaking Premiership win in 2016, when Tom arguably played the greatest game of his career, could not fundamentally change the chronic mental health issues he was experiencing.

Tom decided to make one of the bravest calls of his life and walk away from the team he loved, from his hugely lucrative contract, from celebrity and adulation. He did it because he knew he was much more than the sum of these things, and that mental wellbeing was the one essential he could not ignore.

Tom is now a public speaker and mental health advocate and recently released his first book, Nowhere to Hide.

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You can learn more about Tom (and find his book) here:

instagram.com/tomboyd17

https://www.booktopia.com.au/nowhere-to-hide-tom-boyd/book/9781761065491.html

https://www.millennialtranslator.com.au/

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There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

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Join Sunny and Mayank as they kick-off 2023. What’s in store? There’s only one way to find out.

We touch on the last few months. Mayank has been settling well in the UK and is starting to feel at home. Sunny has just finished a 5-week trip across India. The duo also met up for a short time in Mumbai. 😉

We’ve been keeping busy over the summer break, recording over 15 episodes on SO many exciting topics.

Stay tuned over the coming days for a sneak peak of what's ahead.

Hang tight, we're coming in with a bang.

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There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

______________

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

______________

There are some sensitive topics we touch on regarding mental health so if there are any triggers for you please know there is support and there will be plenty of links in access below.

LifeLine - Ph: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Banksia Project - https://thebanksiaproject.org.au/

Mr. Perfect - https://mrperfect.org.au/

______________

As always, Bottled Up is a passion project to help provide a voice to those many men who are going through the peaks and troughs of life. We are not trained professionals and if you're worried about someone close to you and their mental wellbeing, it's important to get professional advice.

Start a conversation with them and let them know that they're not alone and that there are many support resources out there - including friends, family, school chaplains and plenty more!

If you're feeling distressed or overwhelmed, Beyond Blue has a number of trained mental health professionals available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.

For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 and in an emergency, always dial 000.

---

Music: https://www.purple-planet.com