EP76. Building Community for Men's Mental Health | Mandem Meetup CEO Jamie Dennis.

Описание: In this episode of The Hurt Locker Podcast, Yinka sits down with Jamie Dennis, CEO of Mandem Meetup — a grassroots UK charity dedicated to men’s mental health, wellbeing, and community support. 
Mandem Meetup builds inclusive, judgment-free spaces where men can connect, talk, and support one another through weekly meetups and activities — from talking circles to hikes, football sessions, creative groups, peer support, practical advice, and more — all free to attend. 

🎧EP76 CHAPTERS:
00:00 – Welcome to The Hurt Locker
Introduction to the podcast and guest, Jamie Dennis, CEO of Mandem Meetup.
00:50 – Who is Jamie Dennis?
Jamie shares his background, upbringing, and philosophy on life.
02:26 – Life, Lows, and Reflection
Navigating life’s highs and lows; dealing with setbacks and self-reflection.
03:23 – Mandem Meetup: Safe Spaces for Men
Jamie explains the charity’s mission: a judgment-free space for men to be themselves.
04:13 – Activities & Community Building
Football, hikes, guitar jams, talking circles, volunteering — and their role in building connections.
05:01 – Who Joins Mandem Meetup?
Diverse members, including ex-prisoners, CEOs, office workers, and non-binary individuals.
06:11 – Expanding to Wolverhampton
How the community model spread and inspired local chapters.
08:07 – The First Talking Circle
The origin story of Mandem Meetup, starting with 8 men at Jamie’s kitchen table in 2019.
09:01 – Personal Catalyst for Change
Jamie’s breakup, retraining, travel, and the journey of self-discovery.
11:05 – Vulnerability & Safe Spaces
Jamie opens up about crying in front of a man and the impact of being heard.
13:08 – Turning Personal Pain into Action
Creating Mandem Meetup to help others with mental health and connection.
14:00 – Growing Up in Old Trafford
Jamie reflects on his childhood, siblings, and experiences of fear and resilience.
16:11 – Wearing the Mask & Shame
The pressure of appearing strong and hiding vulnerability in youth and adulthood.
17:33 – The Impact of Abuse
Jamie discusses his abusive stepdad and fleeing the household at 15.
20:07 – Processing Trauma & Compassion
Coming to terms with his stepdad’s suicide and finding peace through compassion.
24:03 – Helping the Next Generation
Creating support for men to regulate emotions and avoid repeating cycles of pain.
26:02 – Mentors & Positive Role Models
The influence of mentors, coaches, family, and supportive figures in Jamie’s life.
27:30 – Relationship with His Father
Exploring his father’s presence, flaws, and pride in Jamie’s achievements.
32:11 – Suicide Statistics & Societal Norms
Discussion of UK male suicide rates and why men struggle to seek help.
35:41 – Staying True to the Mission
Ensuring Mandem Meetup remains community-led and avoids mission creep.
37:28 – Referral Process & Accessibility
No wait times or hoops — anyone can join, free of charge.
39:07 – Philosophy on Society & Influence
How to create safe circles, be compassionate, and take control of your world.
41:09 – Importance of Education & Critical Thinking
Jamie stresses reading, learning history, and understanding society.
Balancing optimism with concern about ignorance and societal manipulation.
47:01 – Current Challenges & Politics
Jamie shares frustrations with political distractions versus real community needs.
48:28 – Fears & Pressures
Fear of not being a good father, husband, leader, and provider.
50:06 – Defining Leadership
What leadership means and how Jamie surrounds himself with capable people.
51:29 – The Most Important Person in Life
Philosophical discussion on self-care and being present for others.
53:13 – Message to Young Jamie
Advice and reassurance to his younger self about being capable and authentic.
56:06 – Experience on The Hurt Locker
Jamie reflects on the uniqueness of the conversation and public discussions on men’s mental health.
1:00:11 – Outro & Support Info
Closing remarks and mental health resources for listeners.

🔓Mental Health Support

If you are experiencing mental health issues, please do reach out for help - phone 999 for an emergency, or if you would like to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123.
Please also check out The Hub of Hope to find mental health support in your local area in the UK.
Mental Health Support Network provided by Chasing the Stigma | Hub of Hope
https://hubofhope.co.uk/

🔓Guest information
To find out more about the brilliant MANDEM MEETUP, please check out the links below:
Website:
http://mandemmeetup.org
Instagram:
  / mandemmeetup  

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