Welcome to the seventh episode of 'Finding the Middle' with Raff's thoughts on vulnerable, brave responses sent in anonymously!

The aim of this episode was for listeners to have the opportunity to share something they are struggling with behind closed doors and break through the various barriers that may be stopping them from seeking out a mental health professional.

Finances, stigma/shame, time and a variety of other difficulties make it impossible for some to access the help they need and with this medium, Finding the Middle hopes to create a big enough shift for listeners to do that.

Please take in what was shared by these responses and I hope a perspective resonates with you.

LINK FOR YOUR OWN RESPONSE HERE

Any feedback is greatly appreciated and it would also be amazing if you could please share this episode. If you think that someone else could benefit from 'Finding the Middle', every share helps my mission grow.

Mentions/Links
APS - Psychologist Standard Rate
National Stigma Report Card
Porn Dopamine Spike
Mel Robbins - Things I Wish I Knew In My 20s
Lewis Howes - School of Greatness

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Welcome to the sixth episode of 'Finding the Middle' with return guest and my good friend, Tyler Palmer.

The aim of this episode was for a quickfire discussion around something that impacts us all - burnout. We delve into how to notice it, the different stages and what can be done once it takes hold.

Whether you're an entrepreneur who is in the trenches of their business or a university student trying to make it through the critical periods of the semester, hopefully the insights shared provide some clarity on what you're having trouble with.

It was an absolute pleasure to sit down with him again and yes, I don't keep my glasses in a case.

Any feedback is greatly appreciated and it would also be amazing if you could please share this episode. If you think that someone else could benefit from 'Finding the Middle', every share helps my mission grow.

Tyler Palmer
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Imperfects Podcast

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Welcome to the fifth episode of 'Finding the Middle' with senior lecturer from The University of Melbourne, Dr. Christopher Groot.

The aim of this episode was to have a professional shed light on the big issue of mental health stigma and have a critical, research-based approach to what is impacting so many young individuals.

Starting as a seal trainer at the Melbourne Zoo to now research professor for the most prolific University in the country for Psychology, Chris has generously shared insights that will hopefully get you to ask your own questions.

It was an absolute pleasure to get the opportunity to speak with him and I hope that our conversation is valuable to you in some way.

Any feedback is greatly appreciated and it would also be amazing if you could please share this episode. If you think that someone else could benefit from 'Finding the Middle', every share helps my mission grow.

Dr. Christopher Groot
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Welcome to the fourth episode of 'Finding the Middle' with my good friend Kayla Wilson and world-renowned DJ - Carl Cox.

The aim of this episode was to have an extremely famous individual share what they believe to be important and Carl rightfully mentions the pertinence of: connection, following your passion and trying to do what you love wherever possible.

I included this excerpt from an old project as Carl not only shared his time and insights with us for free, he is also a shining example of someone who has found his centre. He addresses that he still wouldn't be kicking around if he didn't have a fiery passion for getting behind the decks, especially in the music/events industry.

It was an absolute pleasure to get the opportunity to speak with him and he has left such a lasting impression on me three years on, so hopefully he can do the same for you.

Any feedback is greatly appreciated and it would also be amazing if you could please share this episode. If you think that someone else could benefit from 'Finding the Middle', every share helps my mission grow.

Carl Cox
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Autobiography

Kayla Wilson
so how ya been PROJECT
Radio Host

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Welcome to the third episode of 'Finding the Middle' with two of my close friends, David Titeu + Tyler Palmer.

The aim of this episode was to help you deepen your own understanding of forgiveness, love and compassion within your life through rich insights from two very self-aware individuals.

Both Tyler + David have played a huge part in my mental health journey, who both possess astounding qualities that are worth way more than their extensive collection of accolades.

These topics are not often discussed between groups of mates and I invite you to lean further into the discomfort, as that is where some real learning begins.

Any feedback is greatly appreciated and it would also be amazing if you could please share this episode. If you think that someone else could benefit from 'Finding the Middle', every share helps my mission grow.

Tyler Palmer
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North Melbourne Closer to a Flag

David Titeu
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Welcome to the second episode of 'Finding the Middle' and first guest episode with Counselling Psychologist, Lyndon Medina!

The aim of this episode was to help you get to know Lyndon's story, insight into various forms of therapy and alternatives that shocked even myself.

The title of the podcast is 'Happy Being Imperfect' because as I was leaving the RMIT car park, I asked Lyndon if he would like to listen to the episode before going live and he replied, "don't stress Raff, I'm happy being imperfect".

I'm very lucky to call Lyndon a friend and the reflections shared in this episode can hopefully assist you in whatever stage of life you are in at the moment.

Any feedback is greatly appreciated and it would also be amazing if you could please leave a review. If you think that someone else could benefit from 'Finding the Middle', every share helps my mission grow.

References

• On Purpose with Jay Shetty
• Lyndon Medina - RMIT Profile

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Welcome to the very first episode of 'Finding the Middle' and I'm very excited to be able to finally share this with you!

The aim of this first episode was to explain what I'm aiming to do with this podcast and provide some background about why I started Balanced Blokes.

I delve into research and stories about urinating on myself, relationship breakdowns and a brave year 11 boy who really impacted me with what he was able to share.

Every episode will be designed to impact you and the content will be aimed to help you reflect on what your definition of middle is. The goal is not to tell you what to do but as a guide if you are feeling unsure of your pathway. I still feel lost and lack motivation at the best of times but what I’m trying to accept are the beautiful natural abilities that I possess - vulnerability, sensitivity and empathy. I hope this podcast can help you accept whatever you are struggling with.

Any feedback is greatly appreciated and it would also be amazing if you could please leave a review. If you also think that someone else could benefit from 'Finding the Middle', every share helps my mission grow.

Full transcript of this episode is available here.

References

• Pettigrew, T. F., & Tropp, L. R. (2006). A meta-analytic test of intergroup contact theory. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 90(5), 751–783. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.90.5.751
• Stutz (2022)

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