The Black Country Blokes

In this compelling episode of The Black Country Blokes , hosts Lee and Kev sit down for a second time with Kristian Marrey, a dedicated mental health support worker for the NHS. Kristian shares his deeply personal story of overcoming adversity, from witnessing his mother's battle with alcohol to being forced to grow up quickly while caring for his younger brother. His journey through hostels and h...

In this powerful episode of The Black Country Blokes , hosts Lee and Kev tackle the often-overlooked topic of men's mental health. From battling stigmas to sharing personal stories, they explore why it's essential for men to speak up, seek support, and prioritize their well-being. Join the conversation as they discuss strategies for mental resilience, coping with stress, and breaking down the barr...

In this episode of The Black Country Blokes , hosts Lee and Kev sit down with Shaun Griffiths, a mental health professional with over 20 years of experience working in crisis care, inpatient services, and with the NHS Mental Health Improvement Support Team. Shaun opens up about his personal journey, playing rugby, and facing mental health struggles, addiction, and the impact of suicide. Tune in fo...

In this powerful episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev talk about World Suicide Prevention Day, observed every year on September 10th, to raise awareness and provide support for those struggling with mental health. We also share an incredible journey as Lee and his son Alfie take on the world's fastest zip line—100mph on a 1.5km stretch—to raise money for Dravet Syndrome UK, a cau...

In this episode of The Black Country Blokes , hosts Lee and Kev sit down with Sayra van den Berg, a peace and conflict researcher at the University of York. Sayra shares her incredible work with ex-combatants in Sierra Leone, exploring their post-war justice needs and experiences. We also dive into her current research in South Sudan and Kenya, where she examines how sports and arts play a crucial...

Join Lee and Kev on The Black Country Blokes Podcast as they dive into an electrifying conversation with Sam from Samantics. Known for his one-man show of honesty, energy, and unique sounds, Samantics uses his lyrics to portray his distinctive vision of the world. From his punk-influenced upbringing to his transformation into a powerhouse performer, Sam shares his journey of turning words into lif...

Join Lee and Kev on The Black Country Blokes as they dive into the fascinating and intense world of crime scene investigation with special guest Jo Ward. With 26 years of service in the West Midlands Police and 24 years in forensic investigation, Jo shares her gripping experiences and insights. Awarded Police Staff Member of the Year in 2022, Jo discusses her role in solving high-profile cases, he...

Join Lee and Kev on this compelling episode of The Black Country Blokes as they sit down with Clive Branson, a man who has turned his profound experiences into a beacon of hope for many. From his early years in the Royal Air Force and a long tenure with the Ministry of Defence to his challenging yet inspiring personal journey, Clive shares how he built a career studying the human condition and mas...

In this episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev sit down with the remarkable Matt Windle. A man of many talents, Matt is not only the Birmingham Poet Laureate (2014/16) and the Commonwealth light-flyweight professional boxing champion (2022/23), but also an inspiring mentor. Listen as he shares how he balances his life as a poet and boxer, and his dedication to teaching poetry to yo...

Join Lee and Kev in another insightful episode of The Black Country Blokes as they sit down with Dr. Sarah Bishop, a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in mental health. From working in forensic hospitals to helping premier league footballers, Dr. Bishop has seen it all. In this episode, we delve into her latest project on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and its promising impact on m...

Lee and Kev are joined by Black Country boxing sensation Conah "The Wolf" Walker! Fresh off his epic fight against Lloyd Germain and a Fight of the Year contender against Cyrus Pattinson, Conah sets his sights on Lewis Crocker at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham. Promoter Eddie Hearn says the winner is on the cusp of a world title shot! Will Conah take that next step? Tune in for an exclu...

In this powerful episode of The Black Country Blokes, hosts Lee and Kev sit down with Ben and Rob from Acacia, a charity dedicated to supporting families navigating mental health difficulties during the perinatal period. Founded 20 years ago by two mums who experienced postnatal depression, Acacia has since expanded its services to include young parents, dads, partners, and those from BAME backgro...

In this inspiring episode of The Black Country Blokes, Lee and Kev sit down with the remarkable Kerry Tidman. Kerry shares her incredible journey as a deaf individual who underwent cochlear implant surgery in December 2022. As a holistic therapist, she combines martial arts therapy, psychotherapy, coaching, cognitive behaviour therapy, crystals, and mindfulness to offer early intervention for ment...

In this powerful episode of The Black Country Blokes Podcast, hosts Lee and Kev sit down with David Stocks, a Suicide Prevention Community Development Worker at Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. As Mental Health Awareness Week unfolds, we delve into the depths of David's personal journey, shedding light on his own battles with mental health and his courageous journey through suicide a...

In this riveting episode of The Black Country Blokes Podcast, hosts Lee and Kev delve into the dynamic world of boxing with special guest Osama Mohammed. As a representative for England and Great Britain, Osama shares his insights, challenges, and triumphs on his journey through the sport. From his training regimen to his experiences representing his country, get ready for an inspiring and enlight...

The Black Country Blokes, Lee & Kev, are joined by Sara Ward from Black Country Women's Aid for a powerful conversation. They discuss the important work BCWA does to support victims of domestic violence and abuse. Sara also shares insights on how men can be allies in the fight for equality. But it's not all serious talk! The fellas also look ahead to upcoming International Men's Day (November...

Join hosts Lee and Kev on another insightful episode of The Black Country Blokes podcast, as they sit down with Hasitha, the driving force behind SHD Cricket Coaching. With a background as a former Sri Lankan U19 cricketer and extensive experience in national and 1st class cricket, Hasitha brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. In this episode, he delves into the essential cricket coaching ski...

Join Lee and Kev as they welcome Paul Boggie, a former heroin addict and a proud Scots Guardsman who served the Queen. Paul is also the author of the bestselling book "Heroin to Hero," and "Final Mission Heroin to Hero," which details his battle with addiction and his remarkable transformation. In this episode, you'll hear: Paul's story of battling heroin and prescription drug abuse. How he o...

Join Lee and Kev as they chat with Ade Cutler, husband, dad of 3, and a man who seemingly had it all. But despite the success, Ade faced a hidden battle with depression for over 7 years. In this episode, Ade dives deep into his personal journey, exploring the breakdown, the darkness, and ultimately, the path to rebuild, open up, and find new truths about himself and his mental health. This episode...

Join The Black Country Blokes, Lee and Kev, as they welcome Nicola Byrne and Keeley Jones from Dudley CVS to discuss their fantastic new Dad's project. We'll cover: Dad's mental health from pregnancy to preschool years The importance of a father's role Opportunities to get involved in dad's groups and activities Dudley CVS's one-to-one support service for dads Calling all dads in the Black Country...

Prepare for a powerful conversation when The Black Country Blokes welcome Giant and the Georges! Ben, Sam George, Luke Best, and Kristian Hohn, the critically acclaimed indie-rock band from the Black Country, join Lee and Kev for a candid discussion about mental health. Beyond their chart-topping success and catchy tunes, these musicians delve into their personal journeys, sharing openly about Ben...

Join Lee and Kev, the hosts of The Black Country Blokes, in another powerful episode as they sit down with David Jones to share his incredible life story. At 38, David has faced and conquered numerous challenges, from debt and homelessness to battling addictive behaviors rooted in poor mental health and unresolved childhood trauma. Tune in as David takes us on a journey of self-discovery and redem...

In this episode, Lee and Kev, the charismatic hosts of The Black Country Blokes, delve into the importance of downtime for mental health. Discover the strategies they employ to unwind, recharge, and foster well-being in their day-to-day lives. From hobbies and relaxation techniques to meaningful self-care rituals, the hosts share their experiences and insights, offering practical tips for listener...

🎙️ Welcome back to The Black Country Blokes Podcast! In this heartfelt episode, hosts Lee and Kev share their experiences during the Christmas and New Year break, delving into the importance of mental health and self-care. Get ready for an honest and raw conversation as they discuss the challenges they faced and the strategies they used to navigate through the holiday season. 🤔 Curious about what...

🥊 In this powerful episode of The Black Country Blokes Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Peter Upton, a man who not only conquered cancer but emerged with a renewed zest for life. Join us as he shares his inspiring journey and how he's paying it forward as a dedicated coach at Priory Park Boxing Club. 👊 Peter takes us behind the scenes of his role in shaping the future of amateur boxers,...