Mike is joined by Dr. Rachel Matthews, a university lecturer, student welfare coordinator, and author of ‘Never Look Desperate.’  Her recent novel addresses the silent epidemic of isolation affecting men in Australia, exemplified by a character like Bernard, a 48-year-old who can’t recall the sensation of being touched.

The discussion delves into the hidden struggles tied to societal expectations, mental health stigma, and the prevailing culture of stoicism.

Dr. Matthews, in her research for the novel, engaged with men, women, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community and discusses the impacts of mental well-being, relationship challenges, evolving gender norms, and unrealistic masculine expectations, fostering honest conversations for societal change.

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