In this episode of Tackling it Together, “Don’t cross the road, Life after Loss” we sit down with Sean Green. An absolute legend in our local rugby club, Sean is hugely respected as an incredible player and an even better bloke. Having experienced significant tragedy and loss in his life, Sean has taken the brave decision to share his story.

In 2013, Sean and his wife tragically lost their daughter Alessa shortly after her birth. Sean opens up about the heart breaking impact this had, and the incredibly challenging 10 year period of IVF treatment that followed.

Devastatingly, in 2018 Sean’s sister sadly passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, leaving behind her husband and two young children. Sean talks emotionally about the sheer disbelief and feelings of anger he experienced as he and his family tried to navigate their way through their loss.

Reflecting on his experiences, Sean thoughtfully explores the ways in which other people can respond to your grief. Sean talks openly about how important it is to acknowledge loss and shares a powerful message - “we always remember, you bringing it up isn’t going to trigger us”.

Championing the positive impact therapy can have, Sean shares how learning how to communicate more vulnerably with those he loves and being transparent instead as presenting a front of being “strong” has really supported him to cope.

Sean absolutely epitomises the word resilience and his ability to articulate his feelings, offer advice to others, open up discussions about the need to acknowledge loss, and give hope to those experiencing trauma and grief is truly awe inspiring.

A huge heartfelt thank you to Sean and his wife Cara for sharing their deeply personal story with us, we know your honesty and bravery is going to impact on so many people.

Don’t Cross the Road - Life after Loss will be streaming on all our channels from Monday.

Trigger warning – this episode includes reference to baby loss, sudden loss and IVF.

#dontcrosstheroad #lifeafterloss #IVF #mensmentalhealth #tacklingittogether #littleblackbird

Introducing the latest episode of Tackling it Together, "Åbenhed: The Power of Openness" where we are joined by Kevin Steel.

Kev originates from Denmark,and is physiotherapist, business owner and a retired rugby player. In this episode he tells us his story, detailing his insights and wisdom around navigating life's challenges with authenticity and strength, overcoming injuries and redefining pain through positive mindset.

An honest and thought provoking conversation, Kev explores the importance of putting family first, respecting your body, and embracing the process over the outcome. He discusses the transformative power of walking and talking for men, the value of being truly present, and the Danish concept of "åbenhed" which translates to "openness", as a cornerstone for building trust and creating a safe space for meaningful connection.

Whether you're facing personal struggles, seeking motivation, or simply looking to live more authentically, this podcast reminds us that sometimes, the greatest strength lies in being open.

In this episode of Tackling it Together “Battling the internal Enemy” we sit down with Leigh Foley to talk about his remarkable journey of overcoming addiction to become a successful fitness coach.

A story of hope and determination, Leigh reflects on his addictive personality and shares how swapping the “high” he got from drug misuse, for the dopamine hit he gets from exercise has transformed his life.

Exploring how difficult the process of sobriety and facing your demons can be, Leigh demonstrates an incredible level of self awareness. He refers to his internal negative voice at the “Enemy” and shares his own practices for preventing relapse, including his “Log List” of reasons why he chooses the freedom of a substance free lifestyle.

Becoming a Dad to his little girl has been a pivotal part of Leigh’s recovery, motivating him to make and sustain changes and to ensure that he is there to watch her grow up.

Leigh’s vulnerability and honesty in exploring the devastating impact that addiction had on his mental health and his journey to deal with those issues will undoubtedly inspire others in similar situations. Proving that there is always hope, Leigh quite simply explains “in the end, I’ve become too strong for my problems”.

An inspiring, raw and brutally honest reflection of the devastating impact addition can have, and the incredible strength and determination that can be found in recovery. A huge thank you to Leigh for taking part!

Trigger warning – this episode includes reference to suicide.

#fitnesssavedme #breakthecycle #addictionrecovery #leighfoleyfitness #positivemasculinity #tacklingittogether #littleblackbird