Mikeysline podcast that focuses on mental health is looking for guests and sponsors to reach its global audience
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Mikeysline, a mental health charity in Inverness, set up the Speaking of Suicide podcast with Adventurous Audio Ltd in 2021 to discuss all aspects of mental health and suicide prevention.
The podcast is proving to be popular with more than 5400 downloads, reaching across the world to places like Russia, Australia, Sweden and Africa.
Host and producer Pennie Stuart is now on the hunt for new guests and sponsors to help continue the successful resource.
“We’ve been blown away by how honest and open people have been in sharing their stories with us for the series. It’s such a privilege to be trusted with such raw and often painful personal memories, but what strikes us most of all is just how much all our contributors are willing to give in order to try and help others," she said.
“Time and again they tell us that if sharing their experiences helps just one other person it will have been worth it.”
Sponsors can choose to sponsor one or more episodes, promote positive mental wellbeing in their industry or to just promote good mental health across the board.
Producer Dan Holland continued: “We’ve been hugely grateful to the local businesses who have funded the Speaking of Suicide podcast series to date. There’s a real commitment here in the Highlands to supporting these stories, breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging everyone to speak up when they’re struggling.”
Previous guests, including strongman Luke Stoltman, Professor Rory O'Connor and Mikeysline founder Ron Williamson, have discussed a wide range of topics from suicidal feelings to strategies to feel better.
One former guest, Joe, said: "The opportunity to talk about that period in my life came out of a chance conversation with two good friends. I hadn't talked openly about it for years and, to be honest, had put the stress it caused into a box and turned the key. In many ways I didn't really want to admit that it had ever happened."
Since being established in 2015, Mikeysline has supported people throughout the region with a live chat and text service, face to face support, as well as school visits.
Emily Stokes, CEO of Mikeysline, added: “Although the podcast is called Speaking of Suicide, it really does cover every avenue of mental health and wellbeing. Throughout the series so far, our contributors have shared stories that are inspirational, heart-breaking and deeply personal. They have shared practical advice for those facing mental health issues, the signs to look out for in others, and stories of bereavement by suicide.
“Our mission at Mikeysline is to remind people that struggling with mental health, emotional distress or suicidal thoughts is not uncommon – and that there is always someone available to provide support, whether that is from a friend or family member, or a charity like us.
“This podcast allows us to reach a much larger audience than ever before, to spread that message of togetherness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health, and to remind people that it’s ok not to be ok.”
The podcast is available on Spotify, Apple, Podbean and all streaming platforms.
To get in touch regarding sponsoring the podcast or being a guest, visit the website.
