Show Notes
Craig Bullock is a New Zealand entrepreneur, podcast host, and founder of Mates Matters, a charity organisation focused on helping men have the conversations that matter.
Craig was nearly one of the 60 men we lose to suicide every hour around the world. He knows what it’s like to sit in the darkness and believe there’s no way out. His story isn’t about having it all figured out, it’s about surviving, speaking up, and choosing to keep going when it felt impossible.
Through his work, Craig is on a mission to break down the “she’ll be right” mindset and create spaces where men can open up — about mental health, physical health, and what’s really going on beneath the surface.
He’s also a Mental Health First Aid trainer, working with organisations across New Zealand to build awareness, confidence, and better support systems for their people.
In this conversation, Craig shares his personal journey — from the closure of his business following the Global Financial Crisis, taming the "big black dog" of depression, and the path back to purpose.
We also dive into his upbringing, his journey into fatherhood, and how those experiences have shaped the way he shows up as a dad today.
This is an honest, grounded conversation about resilience, responsibility, and what it really takes for men to step up — for themselves, their families, and their mates. Connect with Craig and Mates Matter To learn more about Craig’s work or enquire about Mental Health First Aid training for your workplace or community: matesmatter.org.nz [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/matesmatternz https://www.instagram.com/mates_matter_nz
Takeaways Community and connection Importance of mental health first aid Listening to understand Encouraging action Embracing discomfort Resilience and emotional awareness Taking ownership of men's mental health Breaking down isolation and building community The importance of real-world experiences
Chapters 00:00 Childhood and Family Resilience 06:10 Mental Health and Well-being 15:03 Community and Connection 22:33 Mental Health Conversations and Support 35:43 Alcohol and Social Spaces 43:45 Importance of Mental Health First Aid 49:39 The Importance of Listening 59:31 The Stigma Around Male Vulnerability 01:25:16 The Impact of Mental Health Struggles 01:33:47 Embracing Discomfort and Resilience 01:39:30 Taking Ownership of Men's Mental Health 01:45:35 Breaking Down Isolation and Building Community 01:53:23 The Importance of Real-World Experiences
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