Real Talk on Losing Both Parents to Suicide & Breaking the Cycle.

In this episode of the Forged Within podcast, host Sam David Wilkes engages in a heartfelt conversation with Jacob Lowe, who shares his profound journey through childhood trauma, loss, and the struggles of mental health. Jacob recounts his chaotic upbringing, losing both parents to suicide, and the impact of addiction on his family dynamics. He reflects on the normalisation of violence and substance abuse in his environment, the challenges of navigating adolescence, and the importance of connection and communication in overcoming adversity. Jacob's story is a testament to resilience and the ongoing journey of healing and self-discovery. In this conversation, Sam David Wilkes shares his journey through addiction, the guilt and shame cycle, and the impact of substance abuse on relationships. He discusses the normalization of drugs and alcohol in society and the importance of finding healthy coping mechanisms. The conversation delves into themes of generational trauma, the struggles of grieving, and the significance of vulnerability in sharing personal stories. Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for awareness, acceptance, and building a strong foundation for change, encouraging listeners to become a lighthouse for others in their journey.

In this episode of the Forge Within podcast, host Sam Wilkes talks to Marcia Bailey who shares her harrowing journey of growing up in an abusive environment marked by neglect and systematic failures. From her earliest memories in a rough neighborhood to the challenges of adolescence and motherhood, Marcia's story is one of resilience and strength. She reflects on the impact of her childhood trauma, the failures of social services, and her determination to break the cycle of abuse. Now, as a mother and community engagement officer, Marcia uses her experiences to empower others and advocate for mental health awareness.

In this episode of the Forge Within podcast, host Sam David Wilkes engages in a heartfelt conversation with Daniel Richards about his journey through mental health struggles, addiction, and recovery. Daniel shares his experiences of hiding behind masks, the impact of family dynamics, and the challenges of coping with anxiety and self-identity. He discusses the role of alcohol and cocaine in his life, leading to a near-death experience that became a turning point for him. Through honesty and vulnerability, Daniel emphasises the importance of seeking help and finding purpose in helping others. The conversation highlights the significance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and the power of community support in the recovery process.

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In this episode of the Forged Within podcast, host Sam David Wilkes speaks with Emma Moseley-Strand about her long journey with endometriosis and its profound impact on her mental health and identity. Emma shares her experiences of isolation, dismissal from medical professionals, and the eventual validation she received through diagnosis. The conversation highlights the importance of believing in oneself, advocating for personal health, and the need for open discussions about mental health. Emma's story is one of resilience, empowerment, and the drive to help others facing similar struggles.

Real talk mental health conversation: An 18 year old shares his views on mental wellness, faith, and personal growth during challenging times.

In this episode of The Forge Within Podcast, I sit down with my son for an open and honest conversation about his experience of mental health.

We talk about how Covid impacted him, what it was like navigating friendships and relationships during that time, and how he experienced seeing me struggle with my own mental health.

He also shares how faith helped him make sense of difficult moments and supported his mental wellbeing in ways he didn’t expect.

This isn’t a conversation about lessons or advice.
It’s about listening, understanding, and giving space to a young person’s voice.

This episode is for parents, young people, and anyone who’s ever wondered how honesty, trust, and openness can shape emotional growth.

In this very first episode of The Forge Within Podcast, my mother and I sit down and talk honestly about what it’s like to love someone who is struggling, the quiet worry that lives in families, and how survival affects more than just one person.

This episode isn’t about blame.It isn’t about fixing anything.

It’s about understanding.

This podcast is for people who’ve survived things they never had the words for and for the people who stood beside them.