To wrap Men's Health Week 2024, and inspire conversations beyond, I went to air at 94.1FM 3WBC with a very special and spontaneous radio show that showcased a story that had not yet been told.

Two days before, at a construction site Men's Health Week toolbox talk, I asked the room of around 130 men to raise their hand if they'd had any experience with paternal post natal depression (the kind that happens to dads).

One guy did.

I could not find him after the event, but received this note later in the day.

"Thanks so much for coming today Rae. I’m the one who put my hand up about post natal depression. Later in the morning a guy who I’d never spoken to before came up to me and asked about my experience. He then told me all about his own experience and we chatted about it for 5mins then went back to work. I hope he felt as good as I did afterwards. Thanks for giving me that chance to put my hand, you are making a difference."

And there's an example of the power of men supporting each other 💙 .

A few hours later, after a very humbling phone call "Dave" generously and courageously agreed to be interviewed live on the show and tell his story for the very first time.

This opportunity was not one to be missed, hearing what it feels like, being Dave and lots more about Men's Health Week.

What does it feel like, being you, today?

rae@raebonney.au

💙 https://lnkd.in/gfMWfy9w - sms4dads - Fathers, Dads-to-be, Families & Health Professionals receive free text messages, support, info & tips.

💙 https://lnkd.in/gzh-XT_q - DadSpace - Mental, emotional and practical support for expectant and new dads.

💙 https://www.dadsgroup.org/ - Dads Group is a bunch of dads supporting dads like you.

#menshealth #mensmentalhealth #paternalpostnataldepression #PPND #depression #anxiety #dads #fathering #workplacementalhealth #menshealthweek2024

I recently caught up with fellow community radio presenter Leah Veenhuizen on her fabulous show "Just a thought" at 94.7 the Pulse.

Leah asked early on about my reasons for advocating so enthusiastically for men and boys ... I surprised myself with an unguarded response that I tend not to often reveal 💛 .

We went on to challenge some of the damaging myths and misunderstandings about men and masculinity - also their alarming absence from global health policy.

We packed a lot into 27 minutes and I am so grateful to Leah Veenhuizen for her talent and expertise in bringing this conversation to air.

What does it feel like, being you, today?

www.raebonney.au

#menshealthweek2024 #menshealth #malesuicide #menandboys #menshealthpolicy #policymaking #masculinity

“A true vocation calls us out beyond ourselves; breaks our heart in the process and then humbles, simplifies and enlightens us about the hidden, core nature of the work that enticed us in the first place.” David Whyte – Poet

This quote came to mind, as I waded through my research, in preparation for my interview with Australian actress, writer and producer, Maria Angelico. It so beautifully illustrates her unwavering commitment to persistently crafting and perfecting a true calling.

This is reinforced with her unmistakable presence on our television screens, for more than 20 years - from pumped up pigtails in Chris Lilley's gob-smacking creations, through to the current comedic gal drama, "Strife" where she stars alongside the likes of Asher Keddie, Matt Day, Tina Bursill, Emma Lung, Rhys Mitchell and so many more talented Aussies.

Late last year, I had the pleasure of experiencing many facets of Maria, on a real live film set. Aside from enormous talent and professionalism, her abundant kindness, care, humility and generosity, clearly makes all the spaces around her a place of joy and wellbeing.

What does it feel like, being you, today?

rae@raebonney.au

#entertainmentindustry #actors #producers #writers #creativearts #filmandtv #televisionproduction #mentalhealth #wellbeing #kindness #care #humility