Holding on to Hope

Finding the joy

November 15, 2023 16:00 - 28 minutes - 19.5 MB

Meet Davina, a talented journalist and devoted mother of two daughters, Rose and Hope. On the surface, her life appears to be a compelling narrative of success, from a joyful childhood to becoming a respected news presenter for the Nine Network on both regional and national television. Yet, behind this facade of achievement, Davina grappled silently with a host of internal struggles. Her journey took an unexpected turn when she became a mother, navigating the complex terrain of postnatal de...

Prioritise yourself

November 01, 2023 22:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MB

Maddie, who had a turning point in year 10 that led her to address cultural taboos surrounding mental health, shares her story. She went from seeking help to becoming an advocate through mental health seminars and university challenges. Maddie discusses her journey, the role of family support, and the importance of embracing imperfection in her transformation from a cheerful, happy-go-lucky girl to facing the challenges of adolescence. LINKS & RESOURCES: Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14...

We are all drops in the ocean and together we make waves

October 18, 2023 16:00 - 16 minutes - 11.7 MB

In this episode, we're honoured to have Uncle Monwell, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander man, whose inspirational journey from personal hardships to talented musician embodies courage, hope, and a passion for change. Uncle Monwell faced adversity, dealing with ADHD, PTSD, and self-harm in his early years. Growing up in a domestic violence environment, he learned the value of resilience and compassion. Despite homelessness, struggles with substance abuse, gambling, and suicidal thoug...

Seeking hope and connection

October 05, 2023 02:00 - 27 minutes - 19 MB

At 27, Amanda was trapped in the pursuit of career success, leading to burnout and depression. Diagnosed with depression, she hit rock bottom and contemplated suicide, feeling isolated due to the stigma. But Amanda didn't give up. Instead, she transformed from self-loathing to self-love. She discovered healing through mindfulness, meditation, and self-reflection. Now, Amanda founded a mental health charity offering hope through peer support groups, workshops, and networking for those battl...

Testaments to the power of human spirit

September 20, 2023 17:00 - 39 minutes - 27 MB

In this episode, we delve into the narratives of two extraordinary individuals who've navigated the depths of darkness, only to emerge as beacons of strength and resilience. Imbi Pyman, a mother of three, carries with her a lived and living experience of the impact of suicide. Her youngest son endured a devastating trauma at the age of 12, casting a shadow of fear over their lives. Four years ago, Imbi turned to Lifeline for support, she now works passionately with her husband to improve s...

The strength within us all

September 09, 2023 17:00 - 47 minutes - 32.9 MB

On World Suicide Prevention Day, we bring you a two-part series shedding light on a topic often cloaked in silence. In this episode, we delve into the inspiring stories of two individuals who battled despair and emerged as beacons of strength. Meet Emily, a 27-year-old who faced diverse challenges, from identity exploration to mental health struggles. Then, there's Ian, who overcame a traumatic past to become a military veteran, father, and suicide prevention advocate. These stories remind...

My heroin habit

May 17, 2023 15:00 - 27 minutes - 18.9 MB

Andrew's life has been marked by immense challenges. As a forced adoptee, he endured a difficult start, followed by psychological and physical abuse at school, leaving him deeply affected by complex trauma. At 15, Andrew turned to alcohol, and by 20, he reached a point of despair, owing a significant debt and resorting to robbing his own family's house, even attempting suicide. This triggered a path of destructive addiction as he used various substances to escape his pain. Homelessness and...

I was certain I was unlovable

May 03, 2023 17:00 - 25 minutes - 17.2 MB

Said grew up with a mum battling schizophrenia and parents who didn’t know how to speak into mental health. He has done a lot of work healing childhood trauma and openly talks about falling into the wounded caregiver role. Said held on to hope through his own struggles with substance abuse and suicide, now he teaches other empaths how to manage boundaries and turn their sensitivities into superpowers as a Team Leader for Lifeline Digital. He shares about speaking up on his mother’s behal...

I was living a lie

April 20, 2023 00:00 - 26 minutes - 18.1 MB

Having found out in the most awful fashion at 6 years old she was adopted, Lea struggled with challenges throughout high school. Faced with crippling depression and societal stigma, she grappled with finding her place in the world. As a mother of two boys, she wore a mask and struggled alone. She is a passionate about an individualised approach to treatment , finding your own coping strategies and the importance of feeling empowered. Lea talks about her lived experience of mental health iss...

It all seemed so logical

April 05, 2023 17:00 - 27 minutes - 18.8 MB

Despite having a loving mother and maternal family, Ian’s early years saw him experience serious Domestic and Family abuse. As a young teenager, Ian says he was convinced his future contained a repetition of his difficult childhood and adolescence. This was a fate he was determined to avoid. Later in life, Ian faced more challenges and he felt he had no control left except for one thing, his own life. The young boy who was convinced his life had no positive purpose has since grown to beco...

There has to be more to life

March 22, 2023 16:00 - 35 minutes - 24.1 MB

On today’s episode we are joined by Anwyn. Anwyn has struggled with depression and anxiety since early childhood - growing up in a dysfunctional and unsafe environment. As she entered early adulthood, all at the same time she moved from a small town to a big city, began unravelling her sexuality, lost a parent and found herself in a building fire. Feeling loneliness and isolation crowding in around her, Anwyn attempted suicide. Now, leading up to the 10-year anniversary of Anwyn's attempt...

I thought I was the most unique individual on earth

March 09, 2023 22:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MB

In 2013, at the age of 18, Tom Boyd was undeniably the best junior footballer in Australia and was first pick in the AFL National Draft. After the beginning of an illustrious career in the game, however, things began to become unstitched. Tom ultimately made the tough decision mid-way through the 2019 season to walk away from his career with 2 years and over $2 million remaining on his contract, wanting to carve his own path and destiny. Tom is joining us today to talk about his inspirat...

I felt like half a man

February 23, 2023 22:00 - 23 minutes - 16.2 MB

Matt is a suicide survivor, mental fitness facilitator, and humanitarian. After suffering with depression and anxiety from the age of 12, Matt attempted suicide in 2016 - which in turn, left him wheelchair bound. After sustaining his injury - Matt managed to shift his frame of mind completely and is now on a mission to instruct, inspire, influence and positively impact millions of people’s lives as a ‘mental fitness facilitator’. Holding on to Hope shares the stories of everyday Austral...

I want to be able to heal from this

February 08, 2023 15:00 - 20 minutes - 14.1 MB

These days, Lizzie describes herself as feeling completely free and like she’s thriving. But she didn’t always feel that way. In this episode, Lizzie opens up to Ruben Mackellar about her childhood, her journey to finding hope, and the turning point that completely changed the course of her life. Holding on to Hope shares the stories of everyday Australians that have experienced moments in crisis and found a path to support. Whilst all the stories shared offer hope and inspiration, at ...

Eno's story of holding on to hope after battles with suicidal ideation and using his experiences to help others throughout the trucking industry.

August 17, 2022 22:00 - 32 minutes - 22.4 MB

This is the story of Ian ‘Eno’ Taylor. After battles with suicidal ideation, he learned the value of reaching out for help. When two friends didn’t do the same, he found himself asking why. That simple act might have saved their lives. Eno decided to take action - in a, literally, traffic stopping way!

Isabella's story of holding on to hope in regional NSW through school, family and mental health issues by finding the Lifeline Eclipse group.

July 12, 2022 06:00 - 31 minutes - 21.9 MB

Some of us wonder why your schooldays are said to be the happiest days of your life. Many find them a struggle – including Isabella who experienced all the usual teenage angsts along with family issues and mental health concerns. But although she was so down on herself, others recognised what a remarkable young woman Isabella is and came to her aid – including a very special Lifeline support group

Lachie Samuel's story of Holding on to Hope after life as a FIFO worker where suicide and mental health issues are a major concern.

May 31, 2022 11:00 - 32 minutes - 22.6 MB

Lachie Samuel is a former FIFO mining worker, flying in and out of some of the most remote, desolate places in Australia, places where male suicide and mental health issues are a major concern. In his Holding on to hope podcast, Lachie explains how he also became one of its victims and how he went on to turn pain into purpose.

Wes Herring’s story of holding onto hope after his dreams for farming and family were shattered.

April 12, 2022 20:00 - 33 minutes - 22.8 MB

Wes Herring reckoned he had life all mapped out. He would take over the family farm, continue the tradition of raising merino sheep and, with wife Kate, bring up a family who would continue the succession. But nothing went to plan. Wes was hit by one blow after another until the physical and emotional pain finally became too much and took him to a very dark place.. This is his story about how, by getting professional help, connecting with a very special mate and sharing his thoughts through...

Ingrid Ozols talks about her battle with suicide ideation since childhood and how she now helps others by sharing what she has learned on her journey of recovery.

September 08, 2021 23:00 - 21 minutes - 15 MB

Welcome to lifelines, holding onto hope. A podcast series in which people who've reached a dark place in their lives share their stories. As part of the Out of the Shadows program we talk with Ingrid Ozols about how she has battled with suicide ideation since childhood. Now she helps others by sharing what she has learned on her journey of recovery.

Ian Roberts talks about being the first male professional athlete to openly come out in Australia, and his ongoing support of the LBGTI+ community

August 24, 2021 21:00 - 23 minutes - 16.3 MB

Welcome to lifelines, holding onto hope. A podcast series in which people who've reached a dark place in their lives share their stories. As part of the Out of the Shadows program we’re talking with international Rugby League icon Ian Roberts. In a stellar career, Ian was renowned for being a hard and ferocious competitor. But for a number of Australians he is regarded as a champion for being the first male professional athlete to openly come out, and his on going support of the LBGTI+ ...

Kate's story of holding on to hope through a gambling addiction

June 09, 2021 20:00 - 31 minutes - 22 MB

Welcome to Lifeline’s Holding onto Hope, a podcast in which people who’ve attempted suicide explain how they found joy in life again. Australians are the biggest gamblers – and the biggest losers in the world and nowhere do we lose more than on the pokies. Every year, it is estimated 400 people commit suicide due to distress over their gambling issues and a further 12,000 contemplate or attempt suicide. Here, Kate Seselja describes how she too despaired about the way pokies were wrecking he...

Amanda and Matt's story of holding on to hope after the trauma of parent alienation

December 22, 2020 02:00 - 30 minutes - 20.9 MB

Parental alienation is said to affect at least 10 per cent of children affected by divorce and it happens when one parent seeks to undermine their children’s relationship with the other. Victimised mums, dads and children can suffer terribly as a result. Here Matt and Amanda share their stories and explain how they’ve supported each other, rebuilt their lives… and continued to hold onto hope.

Anthony Hart's story of holding on to hope after depression snuck up on him, taking him and everyone who knew him by surprise.

October 18, 2020 19:00 - 32 minutes - 22.6 MB

Anthony Hart's slide into depression snuck up on him, taking him and everyone who knew him by surprise. It’s actually a miracle Anthony’s still alive and what he’s achieved since is no less astonishing – a system to help everyone spot their own warning signs and get help.

Oliver Liyou story of holding on to hope as a vet struggling under the weight of stress, financial pressure, long hours and massive emotional dilemmas

August 18, 2020 20:00 - 34 minutes - 23.5 MB

Many of us who’ve had dealings with a vet probably think it’s a pretty nice life – dealing with animals, charging big bills. As equestrian dental specialist Oliver Liyou explains, they forget there’s no Medicare for pets and that vets are struggling under the weight of stress, financial pressure, long hours and massive emotional dilemmas. Oliver built his practise from scratch sharing his expertise through equipment he invented and undergraduates he trained. At the same time, though, he wa...

Oliver Heywoods story of holding on to hope through his slide into darkness by staying connected with his friends

June 16, 2020 21:00 - 32 minutes - 22.4 MB

Oliver Heywood is 23, popular, funny, smart and caring - the last person anyone ever imagined would suffer depression. But at 14, he began a slide into darkness that gradually got worse Here Oliver and his friends, Liam and Connor Holliday, Melissa Baker and Ashleigh McBride share their journey of understanding and the importance of staying connected.

Erik's story of holding on to hope through a difficult childhood, a life changing accident and the stresses of being an elite athlete, father and partner

May 04, 2020 21:00 - 36 minutes - 25.3 MB

Life says athlete Eric Horrie is full of if onlys, if only his mum had chosen a different partner. If only he'd driven through that intersection two seconds later. If only the hospital hadn't confused him with another patient. But along with the bad decisions that have shaped his life, there have been good ones from the moment he fell in love with partner Michelle, to the night of Lifeline volunteer recognized Eric was in crisis.

Chris's story of holding on to hope after surviving three major bushfires including Victoria’s Black Saturday and the PTSD it caused

March 23, 2020 20:00 - 36 minutes - 24.8 MB

Chris Bogusis has survived three major bushfires including Victoria’s Black Saturday. The accumulated stress, however, left him with PTSD causing him to lose his home and marriage. If it hadn’t been for the extraordinary action of his dog Grizzly, he would also have lost his life. Chris’ story explains how to reduce “mental injury” by seeking help early, why it’s important to find the support that’s right for you and how looking out for your community can result in “post traumatic success.”

Gracie's story of Holding on to Hope after dealing with the early stages of bipolar disorder and rural isolation

January 12, 2020 20:00 - 29 minutes - 20.4 MB

Gracie Gribble is 19, funny, very smart, bubbly and bursting with ideas and dreams. But her life hasn’t always been like that. From the age of eight, Gracie was dealing with the early stages of bipolar disorder. Unfortunately, when you live in an outback mining town, finding help can be tough. On top of that, Gracie had three siblings suffering with health issues of their own. Perhaps it wasn’t surprising people presumed her tears were a natural reaction to her situation

Former Fire Fighter Ross Beckley tells his story of holding onto hope and how he discovered he didn’t need a badge to still save lives.

November 19, 2019 23:00 - 33 minutes - 23.2 MB

As a former fire fighter Ross Beckley had to deal with some horrific situations – anything from car accidents to house fires – and it took its toll on his mental health. Today he and his partner Ronnie, a social welfare worker, use his experience to help others. And he’s realised he doesn’t need to wear a badge to save lives.

Doctor Kieran's story of Holding on to Hope through mental illness and using his experience to help others

October 06, 2019 21:00 - 29 minutes - 20.6 MB

The diagnosis of a chronic mental health condition can be devastating - not just because you're scared of how it will affect you but because you're not sure how others will react. No-one knows that better than Kieran a doctor at an Australian hospital's psychiatric unit. That's because as well as caring for patients who are suffering, he's had his own struggles with mental illness. Here, with the help of his wife Laura, Kieran explains what happened and how Laura has helped him reframe wh...

Donna's story of Holding on to Hope after a confidence crisis that turned her life into turmoil in an extraordinary seven days.

September 08, 2019 23:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MB

Donna Thistlethwaite had a great career, a loving partner Greg, a gorgeous toddler Matthew and a bubbly extrovert personality which meant she also had lots of friends. But after taking maternity leave, she returned to a new leadership role and suddenly life began to unravel. Even so, she was the last person in the world anyone expected to attempt suicide

Leilani Darwin’s story of Holding on to Hope by turning her traumatic life experiences into a vehicle to save the lives of other Aboriginal people

July 16, 2019 01:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MB

By any standards, Leilani Darwin’s childhood was difficult – she dealt with violence, alcoholism, neglect and worse. Yet with fierce strength, empathy, respect and intelligence she has turned her experience into a force to dramatically reduce youth suicide statistics and help develop ground breaking Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander suicide prevention programs. The joy she gets from her work has also given her a reason to feel hope again

Joe Williams story of Holding on to Hope through connection with culture

May 27, 2019 02:00 - 35 minutes - 16.5 MB

Welcome to Lifeline’s Holding onto Hope, a podcast in which people who have attempted suicide share their story Joe Williams is a proud Wiradjuri man. Here he describes his struggles with self -doubt and how he’s since connected with his culture to reduce the frightening suicide statistics amongst his people.

Tanya's story of Holding on to Hope over Anorexia

May 27, 2019 01:00 - 35 minutes - 16.1 MB

Welcome to Lifeline’s Holding onto Hope, a podcast in which people who have attempted suicide share their story. For years, Tanya has struggled with anorexia, the mental disorder that takes the lives of more young women than any other. Today, with her friends first Ali and then Megan, she explains why their empathy, kindness and compassion has been so important to her survival

Mal’s story of Holding on to Hope through workplace stress in the Hospitality Industry

April 30, 2019 04:00 - 32 minutes - 15.1 MB

When we visit a fine dining establishment, it’s all calm and quiet courtesy but anyone who has watched Gordon Ramsey in action will know that, in the kitchen it can be anything but calm and quiet. Mal Meirs has worked in some of the best restaurants in the world but the pressure, the horrendous hours, the chaos and the physical pain of horrific injuries often caused by exhaustion and stress brought him literally to the brink of suicide. Fortunately, the intervention of his best mate saved ...

Pete’s story of Holding on to Hope after loss of elite athleticism

April 30, 2019 04:00 - 31 minutes - 14.4 MB

When Pete Wilson had to give up his passion for endurance running due to a heart issue he was devastated. His depression was compounded by the loss of his parents within eight months of each other, debt and marriage issues. Eventually he decided there was only one way to end his pain. He was literally saved from stepping over the brink by workmate Jess who had witnessed friends taking their lives in the past and recognized the signs. She put the ‘Find my phone’ tracker on his mobile and whe...

Cameron’s story of Holding on to Hope over family violence

April 30, 2019 03:00 - 37 minutes - 17.1 MB

We’ve all seen the stories of women who are the victims of domestic violence but we rarely hear the voices of the children who are impacted. Growing up, Cameron not only suffered the loneliness of trying to make sense of his parents’ violent relationship but also the after effects of a devious sexual abuse at the hands of a stranger. His is a story of survival, revived faith in humanity and a passion for music that has helped him find a new hopeful future.

Graeme’s story of Holding on to Hope after retirement and loss

April 30, 2019 02:00 - 35 minutes - 16.3 MB

Graeme Holdsworth was a hugely successful project manager, responsible for building some of Australia’s most iconic buildings from Melbourne’s Crown to Sydney’s 1 Martin Place. He was renowned for his building and management skills. However, just as some people start gaining weight, he realized his behaviours were starting to change. He yelled at everyone from staff to a client and ended up unemployed and divorced. Eventually, he decided it would be better for everyone if he was no longer ...

Ben’s story of Holding on to Hope after returning from service and experiencing PTSD

April 30, 2019 02:00 - 34 minutes - 15.7 MB

At 25, soldier Ben Farinazzo was sent to East Timor as assistant to the forces commander. It was 1999 and the country had just voted for independence. Being fluent in Indonesian, Ben formed a deep bond with the locals and saw the best and worst of humanity there. He helped deliver a baby – subsequently named after him – but also witnessed the terrible Suai Church Massacre. Although he returned to Australia in body, his spirit was elsewhere. The experience left him battling PTSD for decades....

Dave's story of Holding on to Hope through depression and long term pain

April 30, 2019 01:00 - 38 minutes - 17.5 MB

Anyone who’s lived with constant severe pain, knows how bleak life can look as a result. Jaw surgery and a back injury left Dave Peters in agony while a series of psychological traumas sent him spiraling into depression. However, Dave found meaning in life after using his experiences to help others who were also struggling through depression. And he found connection through hugs, horror movies and a very sociable dog!

Amanda’s story of Holding on to Hope through post-natal depression

April 29, 2019 05:00 - 25 minutes - 11.8 MB

At 23, artist Amanda Johnson had life all mapped out. She was married, owned her own ceramic shop and was teaching 200 students a week, firing her three kilns seven days a week and employing seven other staff. She was a successful businesswoman and artist. She approached having children with the same confident expectation of success but instead, fell into a quagmire of self doubt and depression. She couldn’t even paint any more. She had a supportive husband and parents and healthy children ...

Jaz’s story of Holding on to Hope through the stress of transition

April 29, 2019 05:00 - 31 minutes - 14.5 MB

As a young girl, Jaz loved playing soccer and riding her BMX bike. When she hit puberty, her love of life deserted her. She’d spend hours standing in front of the mirror, arms straight by her sides wishing she could always hide her curves. For the next 20 years she tried to destroy herself, the thought of being able to end her pain through suicide her only comfort. She wanted to transition but worried about acceptance. Today, Jaz is 37 and three years into his transition. He hasn’t had sui...

Brendan’s story of Holding on to Hope through drought, rural isolation and depression

April 28, 2019 23:00 - 31 minutes - 14.4 MB

Everyone knows that rural depression is an issue. But few have considered the issues that cause it. Farmer Brendan Cullen reached such a dark place he regularly sat in his car shouting at himself or on his bed sobbing. Today, it’s hard to believe the cheerful sheep station manager from Broken Hill found himself in such pain until he lists the many factors that caused it - isolation, being on duty 24/7, feeling reluctant to ask for help during drought, dealing with so much animal death he ...

Holding on to Hope

Episodes