Business
The "Leading in a Mosaic World" podcast, hosted by Susan Popoola, explores the realities of modern life through conversations with diverse voices and experiences. This episode forms part of a special series exploring the question: “What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?” through conversations with men from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures. The series contributes to the wider mission of creating Gender Harmony in a Mosaic World, a world where men are able to fully be themselves, live fulfilled lives, and add value to others.
Today’s guest is Steve Whittle, founder of Tough to Talk, a charity dedicated to breaking down the barriers that prevent men from speaking openly about their mental health. Following his own experiences with ADHD, rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD), depression, and a period of severe crisis, Steve has become a passionate advocate for changing how society understands and supports men's mental wellbeing.
In this episode, Steve shares his personal journey and challenges conventional approaches to men's mental health. He explores the idea of suicide as a response to overwhelming emotional pain rather than a desire to die, highlighting the importance of prevention, early intervention, and supportive communities. The conversation examines the impact of societal expectations, masculinity, role models, and identity on men's wellbeing, as well as the unique pressures facing young men in a rapidly changing world.
The discussion also explores resilience, mentorship, emotional expression, and the importance of creating safe environments where men can speak openly without fear of judgement. Steve shares practical insights on finding purpose, building positive support networks, navigating the influence of social media and the manosphere, and redefining masculinity in healthier and more inclusive ways.
The episode concludes with reflections on empathy, recognition, community, and the role we can all play in supporting men's mental health and wellbeing.
You can connect with Steve Whittle via his website and LinkedIn. And also connect with the host, Susan Popoola, the CEO of Mosaic Fusions, a specialist in human value optimisation, via LinkedIn. Learn more about her work on her Mosaic Fusions website. And publications on Mosaic Gold Ltd.
This series of the podcast is produced by Rafiat Akinwande.
Keywords: MosaicWorld, MenInTodaysWorld, GenderHarmony, Men, MaleActualisation, Success, Fulfilment, Boys, Adolescent, Manosphere, Masculinity, PositiveMasculinity, MensWellBeing, YoungMen, HumanValue, SusanPopoola, SteveWhittle, ToughToTalk, MentalHealth, SuicidePrevention, Resilience, EmotionalWellbeing, MensMentalHealth
Chapters
00:00 Breaking Barriers in Men's Mental Health
05:27 Understanding the Value of Life
07:52 Defining Male Identity and Experiences
12:37 The Evolution of Masculinity
19:45 Role Models and Their Impact
25:44 Historical Context of Gender Dynamics
31:50 Navigating Challenges as Young Men
37:21 Finding Positive Role Models
41:02 The Balance of Doing the Right Thing
44:18 Reclaiming Masculinity
52:40 Understanding Men's Emotions
55:18 The Joys of Manhood
58:12 Celebrating Positive Male Contributions
01:02:05 Outro