The Black Country Blokes

In this compelling episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev sit down for a second time with Kristian Marrey, a dedicated mental health support worker for the NHS. Kristian shares his deeply personal story of overcoming adversity, from witnessing his mother's battle with alcohol to being forced to grow up quickly while caring for his younger brother. His journey through hostels and hardship has fueled his passion for helping others facing mental health challenges.Tune in to hear how Kristian transformed his troubled past into a mission to support others, offering hope and the message that no matter where you start, you can change your life. This is an episode full of resilience, strength, and inspiration.#KristianMarrey #MentalHealthJourney #TheBlackCountryBlokes #LeeAndKev #MentalHealthSupport #OvercomingAdversity #Inspiration #MentalHealthMatters #BreakTheStigma #Podcast #ChangeYourLife

In this powerful episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev tackle the often-overlooked topic of men's mental health. From battling stigmas to sharing personal stories, they explore why it's essential for men to speak up, seek support, and prioritize their well-being. Join the conversation as they discuss strategies for mental resilience, coping with stress, and breaking down the barriers that keep men from opening up.Don't miss out on this honest and insightful discussion that could change the way we think about men's mental health.#MensMentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #TheBlackCountryBlokes #MenTalkingMentalHealth #BreakTheStigma #MentalWellbeing #Podcast #MentalHealthMatters #LeeAndKev

In this episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev sit down with Shaun Griffiths, a mental health professional with over 20 years of experience working in crisis care, inpatient services, and with the NHS Mental Health Improvement Support Team. Shaun opens up about his personal journey, playing rugby, and facing mental health struggles, addiction, and the impact of suicide. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the importance of mental health awareness, resilience, and how Shaun has navigated both professional and personal challenges.#MentalHealth #Rugby #AddictionRecovery #SuicideAwareness #TheBlackCountryBlokes #Podcast #Resilience #NHS #MensMentalHealth #MentalHealthMatters

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