What Does It Feel Like, Being Michael Wilson?The Human Side Of Men's Health ResearchThe world loves a good stat 📈.We quote them, post them, argue about them, and use “the research” to support our opinions.But how often do we stop to ask, where does the data come from? Who are the people behind the research? What drives someone to commit years of their life to a PhD? .... and who supports them along the way?Back in October 2023, I was joined by Michael Wilson, Research Fellow in Men's Mental Health at Orygen and one of the new generation of men’s health researchers, helping shape what “evidence” really means in the lives of men.His work explores why some men face higher suicide risk after relationship breakdowns, especially how emotion dysregulation and loneliness can collide in the months post-separation.We unpacked the why behind Michael’s PhD - the purpose, persistence and curiosity that fuels his work, and how good support is essential in making it all possible.Then… enter the room (by phone), Michael’s super-supportive supervisor, none other than Dr. Zac Seidler - global men’s health icon, Movember leader, and champion of the next generation of researchers, shared what it takes to nurture rigorous, human-centred research and why great supervision can influence the trajectory of a PhD (and a researcher).What does it feel like, being you, today?

Involuntary Male Childlessness with Dr Robin Hadley.On Sunday 21 September, I aired a very special conversation with Dr Robin Hadley - researcher, advocate, poet, and all-round diamond 💎.Timed perfectly with World Childless Week, Robin and I explored the often overlooked reality of involuntary childlessness in men - the grief, the stigma, and the silence.Some of Robin’s words that stayed with me:💔“It’s grief without a death ... a disenfranchised grief because there’s no ritual, no structure, no recognition.”🔢“If you’re not counted, you don’t count. And if the people who do the counting won’t count you, then you’re excluded twice over.”🐥“I thought I was the only one who felt so broody, who felt like there was a cloud over them. Then I discovered there were many men like me.”We also spoke about: ✨ The ache of Father’s Day for men who longed to be dads ✨ The policy blind-spots that leave childless men invisible in planning and services ✨ Aging without children and who advocates for you when family isn’t there ✨ Male vulnerability - why it needs to be understood on its own terms ✨ Robin’s very personal health update about how a routine check led to an early prostate cancer diagnosisThis is an interview I absolutely loved. Robin’s ability to weave his own lived experience with groundbreaking research is rare and powerful. I have enormous respect for his work and I’m grateful he shared it with me .. and now, all of you ☺️.What does it feel like, being you, today?www.raebonney.au#InvoluntaryMaleChildlessness #MensHealth #Fathering #ProstateCancer #GetChecked #MensHealthResearch #MensHealthPolicy #WorldChildlessWeek

Last week I was joined live in the studio’s of 3wbc, by the unstoppable Anna Feringa - one of Australia’s most no-nonsense voices in workplace mental health, psychological safety and wellbeing.Hilarious & Hard-Hitting Highlights:⭐Anna’s racy take on psychosocial health (“it’s a mess, but a good mess”)⭐An entertaining kitchen appliance showdown: Thermomix vs. sandwich press (who knew you could cook salmon in one?)⭐The importance of meeting people where they are—because “just reach out” often isn’t enough⭐Why “we’re like a family here” is a massive workplace red flag 🚩⭐Stories from Dubbo to boardrooms, bullies to board papers—and what it really takes to create safe and caring workplaces⭐Plus, a little detour into perms, chili jam, and why laughter belongs in mental health conversationsAnna doesn’t just cut through the BS, she brings heart, humour, and hard truths that every leader and workplace needs to hear. ❤️ Come for the laughs, stay for the goosebumps. 🪿What does it feel like, being you, today? www.raebonney.au#MensHealth #MentalHealth #WorkplaceWellbeing #PsychologicalSafety #Kindness #Care #WorkplaceMentalHealth #Thermomix #CreativeCooking #PopFilters #LiveRadio

✈️FROM AIRSPACE TO HEADSPACE🧠 What It Felt Like Being Sean Menere on 94.1FM 3WBCSean Menere’s story is anything but linear. He recently joined me on 94.1FM 3WBC to explore the turbulence and triumph of a life that’s shifted from air traffic control to counselling - with stops in Antarctica, fatherhood, and emotional upheaval along the way.What has emerged is an articulate, caring man, guided by curiosity and courage. Through his counselling practice, Solid Foundations and amazing initiative, The Good Uncle Project, Sean has created spaces where others feel safe to be seen, understood, and supported.We covered the challenges of new parenthood, starting a business under pressure, and that quiet resilience that carries us through chaos. He spoke candidly of childhood bullying, insecure attachment, and being a victim of intimate partner abuse - topics rarely voiced by men. His stories of Antarctica, the birth of his daughter Evelyn, and the passing of a dear friend painted a rich picture of connection, grief, and showing up when it matters most. There was levity, too, in Paul Kelly songs, cryptic music requests, and tell of a wrist injury that turned into a personal best push-up record. Sean’s passage, from Virgin Blue to the wilds of Antarctica and beyond can remind us that life rarely moves in a straight line. It’s a powerful reflection on the human capacity to adapt, take responsibility, and make the most of what we have, rather than being held back by what we don’t. Thank you, Sean, for showing us what’s possible.❤️ Come for the laughs and stay for the goosebumps 🪿.#MensHealth #MentalHealth #DomesticViolence #MensMentalHealth #SuicidePrevention #Fathers #Parenting #Adptability #AirTrafficControl #Bullying #Courage #Curiosity

The month of May, birthed a powerfully human episode of "What Does It Feel Like, Being You Today?" on 94.1FM 3WBC, that dived deep into one of the most fascinating and fast-moving intersections in modern life: artificial intelligence and mental health.Joining me was the ever-insightful Jonas Christensen — unconventional business leader, Corinium Global Intelligence Top 100 Innovator, host of Leaders of Analytics, and co-author of Demystifying AI for the Enterprise. More importantly, Jonas brought his heart to the mic, sharing a deeply personal story of postnatal depression experienced alongside his wife, and how they are co-authoring a book, Losing Our Sanity, to help others navigate similar terrain.A few standout moments:“We always invent something new to do. But in the moment of change, fear is real.” — Jonas, reflecting on tech disruption and why human adaptability is our greatest asset.“We needed someone we could hang out with and have a beer with after work — your personality just fit our team.” — Jonas, on how he landed his first job in data despite not knowing how to code. A powerful reminder that being human still matters in the age of AI.“You won’t be replaced by AI anytime soon. But your job might be if you don’t learn to use it well.” — On the power (and responsibility) of understanding new tools.And perhaps most moving .......“We're never just one emotion. There are always layers to who we are at any point in time.” — Jonas, describing what it felt like being him that day, carrying both joy and grief.We explored how AI can support wellbeing, from apps that help track emotions or sobriety, to algorithms that offer companionship. But also, the risks: addiction, surveillance, and emotional disconnection. Ultimately, it comes down to choice, responsibility, and design.Jonas and I also talked parenting, school systems, workplace cultures, and what it means to feel "torn" between worlds, both emotionally and geographically.You can catch it (and all episodes) on Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. Just search: Rae Bonney.#MensHealth #MentalHealth #AI #Wellbeing #Storytelling #Radio #PostnatalDepression #Fathers #WorkplaceCulture #Innovation #RealTalk

Easter Sunday 2025, I was joined on the show by a guest I’ve known for every single second of her 30 years — and, if we’re getting technical, even before that, when she was giving me heartburn, and heart attacks with in the lead up to her grand entry into the world.All said, this amazing woman is my first true love. The most beautiful princess in all the land and, quite frankly, one of the scariest people I’ve ever met.Fierce doesn’t even begin to cover it — her razor-sharp intuition, unshakeable standards, and piercing blue eyed gaze have been the driving force behind some of my biggest life decisions… largely because I was terrified of disappointing her.But beyond all that, she’s kind, caring, strong, hilarious, endlessly thoughtful, and loves nothing more than creating magical moments for anyone in her vision. And the 20th of April was special. Not just because we were on the radio together, but because we’ll be doing “us” in an environment we’d never shared before. We dove straight into the magical world of motherhood — across generations. Talking through what it was like raising Rose in the 90s and 2000s, and how she’s now raising my granddaughter, Evelyn, in a world that looks very different. From parenting philosophies and old-school values to the things she’s reinventing, holding onto, or letting go of — we explored it all.There we laughed, cried, cracked a Kath ‘n Kim reference and played some Kings of Leon in the breaks.She’s one of my favourite people in the world and mother to the most talented, gifted, and beautiful granddaughter that ever walked the earth.

🎙️ Erik Thomson: How Popularity, Accomplishment, and Unwavering Professionalism Masked His Offscreen Struggle with Addiction 🎙️This is more than just an interview - it’s a raw, honest, and personal conversation with one of Australia’s most celebrated actors, Erik Thomson, aired recently at 94.1FM 3WBC. For the first time ever, Erik opens up about his struggles with alcohol and other addictions, providing a candid look at the highs and lows behind the scenes of his remarkable career.Erik doesn’t just speak about his journey in acting - from iconic roles in Packed to the Rafters, All Saints, 800 Words and Aftertaste - but shares emotional experiences that shaped him, including battles with substance misuse to the toll it took on his mental health, and recovery.He also reflects on his upbringing, including his father’s pride in moving their family into the middle class through hard work as a doctor, and the tension of generational expectations when Erik chose acting over the Navy, something his father envisioned as the ultimate career. The honesty Erik brings forward, about the unspoken challenges so many grapple with, offers a conversation that feels human and relatable. His story invites us to reflect, resonate, and recognise our own strength in facing difficult situations. This isn’t just an interview—it’s a reminder that even during the hardest times, there’s options.Don't forget, you can now listen to this show and many more like it on your favourite podcast platform. https://rae6z.podbean.comWhat does it feel like, being you, today?www.raebonney.auhashtag#MentalHealth hashtag#AddictionRecovery hashtag#ErikThomson hashtag#ExclusiveInterview hashtag#MensHealth hashtag#RadioShow hashtag#Podcast hashtag#PersonalGrowth hashtag#AlcoholRecovery hashtag#AddictionJourney hashtag#EntertainmentIndustry hashtag#Support

The Tables Turned! 🎙️ I was the Guest, with Steve Carey Hosting!On a very warm Sunday in February, at 94.1FM 3WBC, for the first time ever, I handed over the reins of my show and settled in as a guest of longtime friend and magnificent media man, Steve Carey.He took the lead and asked me “what does it feel like being you, today?” which provided foundation for a deep dive into my personal and professional journey … a story I’ve not told in its entirety and it evoked all kinds of emotions 😃 🤔 😐 😑 🫨 .Accustomed to being the “interviewer”, it was certainly a shift – but Steve, former CHANNEL 7 TV News Director, crafted a surprise package of questions and delicately peeled back my layers, as he expertly guided conversations around my early life, challenges with mental health, and how my career evolved to focus on men’s health and mental health. We also tackled some of the more gnarly topics like suicide, self-harm, addiction, and violence – backed up with information about where find support.What does it feel like being you today?www.raebonney.au #MensHealth #MentalHealth #MaleSuicide #SupportMen #Family #Wellbeing #estingdisorders #kindness #care

It was a long-awaited honour to speak with UK men’s health advocate Mark Brooks OBE, where we unpacked the often-dismissed issue of domestic and family violence against men and boys.As a sector leader in male health, education, inclusion, and domestic abuse, Mark brings over 25 years of experience and thought leadership to this important topic. He has played a pivotal role in championing the rights of male victims through his work with organisations like the The ManKind Initiative in the UK, which continues to raise awareness and provide critical support to men facing domestic abuse.Mark's recent achievements include leading the campaign for a Men's Health Strategy for England, publishing influential reports on male suicide and boys' education, and raising the profile of male victims of domestic abuse. He also leads the successful INTERNATIONAL MEN'S DAY (UK) LTD. platform, which engaged over 800 organisations in 2024.Historically, the gender-specific needs of male victims have been overlooked in both research and service provision, making this discussion essential. Through our discussion, Mark and I aimed at sparking a broader conversation, bringing men and boys into the dialogue, exploring their involvement in ending domestic violence, the unique challenges men face in harmful relationships, as well as barriers to effective support.For listeners, I want exercise some self disclosure and reflection - also a heartfelt apology to Mark. Great friend of mine and the show, Mike Hagan, who also expertly produces my podcast, bought to my attention in his incredibly kind, thoughtful, and generous manner—that during the conversation, I became a bit of an interrupter, cutter offerer and over talker of Mark. Mike, in his usual gracious way, acknowledged my enthusiasm and intent as noble, but still, I want to own it, disclose it and learn from it as I listen through the show. Anyway, in any case I hope you enjoy our conversation ❤️

Wrapping up 2024 was such a delight to be back on air at 94.1FM 3WBC with the legendary Steve Carey - one of Australia’s most seasoned voices in TV News & Public Affairs. With over 35 years of brilliance across Seven Network, Nine, and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Steve is the ultimate life hack—proving that age is no barrier to success, fulfillment, and discovering joy in all the right places. In this show, Steve and I dived headfirst into the complexities of today’s fragmented media landscape. In a world where no single news program can satisfy all audiences, Steve unpacked his remarkable journey and shone a light on the critical role trusted journalists play in navigating our ever evolving world. From encouraging us to engage with diverse news sources to exploring the vital importance of journalistic integrity, in an era of ever increasing misinformation, Steve’s insights were inspiring and thought-provoking. Hear what it feels like, being Steve Carey, as we explored the evolving responsibilities of journalism and the power it holds to shape perspectives and empower choices.

It was a definite highlight of my International Men's Day/Movember season, hanging out with Movember's Jake Lambert at 94.1FM 3WBC to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in men’s health, in honor of men and boys around the world.Jake was incredibly open, sharing deeply personal and touching moments—from his journey as a new dad to a heartfelt story about his own father. His reflections highlighted the power of vulnerability and connection in breaking down stigmas around men’s health.We also explored the incredible impact of Movember-supported programs, like The Man Cave School Programs, which are equipping young men with the tools to navigate life with confidence and compassion.Paying respect to the many grassroots men and boy's health organisations around the world, like The Father Hood (Jeremy Macvean, Andrew McUtchen, Luke Benedictus) highlighted an entire sector working tirelessly to promote a better understanding of the challenges faced by men and boys globally.What does it feel like, being you today?www.raebonney.au

On International Men's Day, I'm extraordinarily proud to stand within a sector of dedicated individuals, committed to making better lives for men and boys ❤️🌍.

Mike Hagan is a Distant Conspirator who has become a very close collaborator of mine over the past few years 😀.In a mash up of our respective fields, mental health, workplace wellbeing, men’s health, safety and compliance, we shared all the how, what, why, when and where we’re both currently at. On one of the biggest topics going round, Mike and I sketched out what organisational responsibility in addressing workplace psychosocial hazards and risks can look like, and described simple yet effective strategies anyone can use to create safe and supportive environments. My experience in men’s health, mental health and workplace well-being, combined with Mike’s expertise in all things safety and compliance, provided valuable insights on how companies can proactively manage these risks and support their workforce’s overall health. We also touched on our respective roles at October's Workplace Health & Safety Show in Sydney, which featured the latest developments in workplace safety, new technologies, and best practices. What does it feel like, being you, today?rae@raebonney.au

To wrap Men's Health Week 2024, and inspire conversations beyond, I went to air at 94.1FM 3WBC with a very special and spontaneous radio show that showcased a story that had not yet been told.Two days before, at a construction site Men's Health Week toolbox talk, I asked the room of around 130 men to raise their hand if they'd had any experience with paternal post natal depression (the kind that happens to dads). One guy did.I could not find him after the event, but received this note later in the day."Thanks so much for coming today Rae. I’m the one who put my hand up about post natal depression. Later in the morning a guy who I’d never spoken to before came up to me and asked about my experience. He then told me all about his own experience and we chatted about it for 5mins then went back to work. I hope he felt as good as I did afterwards. Thanks for giving me that chance to put my hand, you are making a difference."And there's an example of the power of men supporting each other 💙 .A few hours later, after a very humbling phone call "Dave" generously and courageously agreed to be interviewed live on the show and tell his story for the very first time.This opportunity was not one to be missed, hearing what it feels like, being Dave and lots more about Men's Health Week.What does it feel like, being you, today?rae@raebonney.au💙 https://lnkd.in/gfMWfy9w - sms4dads - Fathers, Dads-to-be, Families & Health Professionals receive free text messages, support, info & tips.💙 https://lnkd.in/gzh-XT_q - DadSpace - Mental, emotional and practical support for expectant and new dads.💙 https://www.dadsgroup.org/ - Dads Group is a bunch of dads supporting dads like you.#menshealth #mensmentalhealth #paternalpostnataldepression #PPND #depression #anxiety #dads #fathering #workplacementalhealth #menshealthweek2024

I recently caught up with fellow community radio presenter Leah Veenhuizen on her fabulous show "Just a thought" at 94.7 the Pulse. Leah asked early on about my reasons for advocating so enthusiastically for men and boys ... I surprised myself with an unguarded response that I tend not to often reveal 💛 .We went on to challenge some of the damaging myths and misunderstandings about men and masculinity - also their alarming absence from global health policy.We packed a lot into 27 minutes and I am so grateful to Leah Veenhuizen for her talent and expertise in bringing this conversation to air.What does it feel like, being you, today?www.raebonney.au#menshealthweek2024 #menshealth #malesuicide #menandboys #menshealthpolicy #policymaking #masculinity

Earlier this year, #2 son and I attended one of the many amazing Melbourne International Comedy Festival events.We were not nearly well enough prepared to have our sides split and possibly our pants wet, from the night’s headliner, Ashley Fils-Aime. 🤣Supporting a mystery line-up of some of the best festival comedians, Ashley did not fail to keep the laughter level at “11” throughout the entire evening.Looking a little closer at Ashley's trajectory, though – a Haiti-born comedy success, raised in Miami, Florida and performing on stage since the age of 18 – I started scratching the surface of a story that’s simply gagging to be told.My radar on racial/ethnic disparities in men's health was also activated during Ashley’s performance, through his tongue-in-cheek references to personal experiences of being a black male.Ashely very generously agreed to join me on Sunday, 19 May to hear what it feels like, being .. Ashley Fils-Aime. 💙.What does it feel like, being you, today?rae@raebonney.au#comedy #menshealth #mentalhealth #standupcomedy #career #racialdiscrimination #inequality #ethnicminority #ethnicdisparity #blackminoritymen #laughteristhebestmedicine

Around 35 years ago, Peter Baker set himself a path of exploring the relatively unchartered world of men and boy’s health in the UK. A true trailblazer, he’s contributed to many great outcomes, over the years, including the introduction of HPV vaccination for UK boys in 2018.Fast forward to now and he is one of the founders and Director of Global Action on Men’s Health that launched 10 years ago, with a clear purpose of creating a world where all men and boys have an opportunity to achieve their best possible health and wellbeing wherever they live and whatever their background. GAMH works to encourage the @who and other international agencies involved in public health to develop research, policies and strategies on men’s health.What does it feel like, being you, today? rae@raebonney.au#menshealth #menshealthpolicy #genderneutralvaccination #mensmentalhealth #healthpolicy #publichealth #menshealthresearch #menshealthstrategy #malesuicide #mentalhealth #whatdoesitfeellikebeingyoutoday

“A true vocation calls us out beyond ourselves; breaks our heart in the process and then humbles, simplifies and enlightens us about the hidden, core nature of the work that enticed us in the first place.” David Whyte – PoetThis quote came to mind, as I waded through my research, in preparation for my interview with Australian actress, writer and producer, Maria Angelico. It so beautifully illustrates her unwavering commitment to persistently crafting and perfecting a true calling.This is reinforced with her unmistakable presence on our television screens, for more than 20 years - from pumped up pigtails in Chris Lilley's gob-smacking creations, through to the current comedic gal drama, "Strife" where she stars alongside the likes of Asher Keddie, Matt Day, Tina Bursill, Emma Lung, Rhys Mitchell and so many more talented Aussies.Late last year, I had the pleasure of experiencing many facets of Maria, on a real live film set. Aside from enormous talent and professionalism, her abundant kindness, care, humility and generosity, clearly makes all the spaces around her a place of joy and wellbeing.What does it feel like, being you, today?rae@raebonney.au#entertainmentindustry #actors #producers #writers #creativearts #filmandtv #televisionproduction #mentalhealth #wellbeing #kindness #care #humility

Late last year I tuned into Andrew Huberman's Huberman Lab Podcast for one of the best 12 hours and 40 minutes of learning I’ve experienced in a long time.Dr. Paul M. Conti, a Stanford and Harvard trained psychiatrist has empowered the lives of many people around the globe, including Lady Gaga, Kim Kardashian and Tommy Hilfiger!Supported by legendary Huberman hosting, Paul presented the human condition, through sense making dialogue and mind blowing models, that had me listening to the 4 part series over and over again.In the spirit of true gratitude, I connected with Dr. Paul, thanking him for providing ways of showing my own clients a clearer perspective of self and also cheekily requested a radio interview.Astounded by his generosity and quietly @#$%$#% myself for perhaps getting in over my head, Paul did not hesitate in accepting and we connected Portland, Oregon with Melbourne, Australia in early February 2024.What does it feel like, being you, today?www.rae@raebonney.au#neuroscience #MentalHealth #gratitude #agency #humancondition #generationaldrive #purpose #trauma #intergenerationaltrauma #unconsciousmind #consciousmind