From Footballer to Fighter: Leon McKenzie on Mental Health & Survival
I Got Back Up: Getting back up with...Show Notes
What happens when the applause fades and you're left to face your biggest battles alone?
Joining Talia in the studio this week is former Premier League footballer, professional boxer, mental health advocate, and author Leon McKenzie for one of his most honest conversations yet.
After a successful football career with clubs including Norwich City, Coventry City and Crystal Palace, Leon transitioned into professional boxing before dedicating his life to raising awareness of mental health. Having experienced depression, trauma, and suicidal thoughts, he now uses his platform to help others realise that healing is possible and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Together, Talia and Leon explore the lifelong impact of childhood experiences, the non-linear journey of healing, and how faith, purpose, self-love, and vulnerability have helped him rebuild his life. This is an emotional conversation about surviving the darkest moments, embracing authenticity, and discovering the strength to keep getting back up.
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