The Black Country Blokes

In this powerful episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev talk about World Suicide Prevention Day, observed every year on September 10th, to raise awareness and provide support for those struggling with mental health. We also share an incredible journey as Lee and his son Alfie take on the world's fastest zip line—100mph on a 1.5km stretch—to raise money for Dravet Syndrome UK, a cause close to Lee's heart, as his daughter Calla-Rose lives with the condition. Join us as we discuss mental health, awareness, and overcoming challenges. Please consider supporting Lee's zip line challenge by donating to Dravet Syndrome UK through the link below!Sponsor us here: Donate to Dravet Syndrome UK#SuicidePreventionDay #MentalHealthAwareness #BlackCountryBlokes #DravetSyndrome #CharityChallenge #ZipLineChallenge #100mphZipLine #SupportDravet #FamilyStrength #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #PodcastEpisode #MentalHealthMatters #DonateForACause

In this episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev sit down with Sayra van den Berg, a peace and conflict researcher at the University of York. Sayra shares her incredible work with ex-combatants in Sierra Leone, exploring their post-war justice needs and experiences. We also dive into her current research in South Sudan and Kenya, where she examines how sports and arts play a crucial role in disrupting ongoing conflicts and fostering peace within war-affected communities. Tune in for a deep and thought-provoking discussion on peacebuilding through unconventional means.#Podcast #PeaceBuilding #ConflictResolution #SportsForPeace #ArtsForPeace #SouthSudan #SierraLeone #BlackCountryBlokes #AcademicResearch #PostWarJustice

Join Lee and Kev on The Black Country Blokes Podcast as they dive into an electrifying conversation with Sam from Samantics. Known for his one-man show of honesty, energy, and unique sounds, Samantics uses his lyrics to portray his distinctive vision of the world. From his punk-influenced upbringing to his transformation into a powerhouse performer, Sam shares his journey of turning words into life-saving lyrics and creating an unforgettable live experience. Don't miss this episode filled with inspiration, creativity, and off-the-chain performances!#TheBlackCountryBlokes #Samantics #Podcast #Music #Poetry #LivePerformance #CreativeJourney #Inspiration #UniqueSounds #OneManBand

Join Lee and Kev on The Black Country Blokes as they dive into the fascinating and intense world of crime scene investigation with special guest Jo Ward. With 26 years of service in the West Midlands Police and 24 years in forensic investigation, Jo shares her gripping experiences and insights. Awarded Police Staff Member of the Year in 2022, Jo discusses her role in solving high-profile cases, her appearance on the BBC's "Forensics, The Real CSI," and her newly released book, "Every Contact Leaves a Trace." Hear about the challenges she faces both on and off the job, including her battles with PTSD, motherhood, and cancer. Don’t miss this compelling episode filled with real-life stories from the frontline of crime scene investigation.Hashtags: #BlackCountryBlokes #Podcast #Forensics #JoWard #CrimeSceneInvestigation #CSI #MentalHealth #Motherhood #PTSD #Policing #TrueCrime #EveryContactLeavesATrace #BBCForensics #Inspiration #ADHD #CancerSurvivo

Join Lee and Kev on this compelling episode of The Black Country Blokes as they sit down with Clive Branson, a man who has turned his profound experiences into a beacon of hope for many. From his early years in the Royal Air Force and a long tenure with the Ministry of Defence to his challenging yet inspiring personal journey, Clive shares how he built a career studying the human condition and mastering effective communication.After leaving the MoD in 2017, Clive's life was shaken by a series of heartbreaking events: losing his father to Parkinson's and Dementia, battling Motor Neurone Disease, a severe mental breakdown, and losing his mother to Covid. Despite these overwhelming adversities, Clive found strength in the love and support of his family, redefining his outlook on life.In this episode, Clive opens up about how he uses his story to connect with others, from corporate audiences to prison inmates, demonstrating the incredible resilience and fortitude we all possess. He passionately discusses the importance of self-compassion, empathy, and the power of maintaining a positive mindset. Clive's authenticity and humor make his message not only relatable but profoundly inspiring.Tune in to hear how Clive's journey from despair to hope can inspire us all to live each day to its fullest.#Resilience #MentalHealth #InspirationalStories #Podcast #TheBlackCountryBlokes #OvercomingAdversity #CliveBranson #LifeLessons #PositiveMindset #Empathy #SelfCompassion

In this episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev sit down with the remarkable Matt Windle. A man of many talents, Matt is not only the Birmingham Poet Laureate (2014/16) and the Commonwealth light-flyweight professional boxing champion (2022/23), but also an inspiring mentor. Listen as he shares how he balances his life as a poet and boxer, and his dedication to teaching poetry to young people and mentoring adults within the justice sector. Discover how 'The Matman' uses his unique skills to raise literacy confidence and provide positive outlets for those in need.#TheBlackCountryBlokes #Podcast #MattWindle #PoetLaureate #BoxingChampion #Poetry #Mentorship #Birmingham #Inspiration #Literacy #JusticeReform #LeeAndKev #TheMatman #ProfessionalBoxing #Education #PositiveChange4o

Join Lee and Kev in another insightful episode of The Black Country Blokes as they sit down with Dr. Sarah Bishop, a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in mental health. From working in forensic hospitals to helping premier league footballers, Dr. Bishop has seen it all. In this episode, we delve into her latest project on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and its promising impact on mental health. Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with expert insights and real-world experiences.#BlackCountryBlokes #MentalHealth #Podcast #DrSarahBishop #HyperbaricOxygenTherapy #ClinicalPsychology #MentalWellness #InnovativeTherapies #ForensicPsychology #PremierLeague #MentalHealthMatters

Lee and Kev are joined by Black Country boxing sensation Conah "The Wolf" Walker! Fresh off his epic fight against Lloyd Germain and a Fight of the Year contender against Cyrus Pattinson, Conah sets his sights on Lewis Crocker at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham. Promoter Eddie Hearn says the winner is on the cusp of a world title shot! Will Conah take that next step? Tune in for an exclusive interview, fight predictions, and Black Country banter! #BlackCountryBlokes #ConahWalker #TheWolf #Boxing #WorldTitleShot #ResortsWorldArena #Birmingham #EddieHearn #LewisCrocker #FightNight

In this powerful episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev sit down with Ben and Rob from Acacia, a charity dedicated to supporting families navigating mental health difficulties during the perinatal period. Founded 20 years ago by two mums who experienced postnatal depression, Acacia has since expanded its services to include young parents, dads, partners, and those from BAME backgrounds. Join us as we discuss the vital support Acacia provides for pre and post-natal depression and anxiety, and hear inspiring stories of resilience and recovery. Learn more about Acacia at www.acacia.org.uk.#PerinatalMentalHealth #PostnatalDepression #AcaciaCharity #MentalHealthSupport #TheBlackCountryBlokes #FamilyWellbeing #ParentingJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #BAMESupport #DadsMentalHealth #PodcastE