This podcast interview features a Wiradjuri/Wolgalu First Nations man, with a 15 year career in professional National Rugby League playing for South Sydney Rabbitohs, Penrith Panthers and Canterbury Bulldogs before switching to professional Boxing in 2009. He is a best selling author, struggles with suicidal ideation and bi-polar disorder, attempted suicide in 2012 to eventually fight through his pain to realise his purpose. Meet Joe Williams.  

This episode examines how Joe managed to turn his whole life around. He shares the practical strategies he continues to use to combat the constant downward spiralling effects of self-defeating thoughts, and the defining moment with an Elder to cure his ‘spiritual illness’ that set him on his path to pursue his life’s purpose. 

We talk of many themes including the flow on effects of childhood trauma, paranoia, the importance of choice, having a growth mindset, and the need to take personal responsibility for your own happiness, and to master what Joe calls our ‘inner stigma.’ 

Joe offers advice for carers of those with mental illness, lots of ways to deal with suicidal thoughts, and the need to ‘step into the pocket’ in seeking a more understanding relationship with these thoughts and fears.  

Tune in, open your mind and heart, and be inspired.  

RESOURCES 
Website: https://www.joewilliams.com.au/speaking 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joewilliams__tew/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEnemyWithinJoeWilliams
BOOK: Defying The Enemy Within https://bit.ly/2ZCpWY1
Wellness & Wisdom for the Workplace for preventative and proactive strategies for positive mental health and growing resilience capability with Josie Thomson https://bit.ly/2RqQ5Vn
You Are Not Your Brain online course, for changing bad habits, ending unhealthy thinking and taking control of your life, with Dr Jeffrey M Schwartz & Josie Thomson https://bit.ly/33uiKyn
Simple Meditation For Busy People ebook/meditations download https://bit.ly/2ZAO79k
Enliven-U book of inspirations and hope https://bit.ly/35BLnwr
The Wise Advocate book – the inner voice of strategic leadership  https://bit.ly/2ZD4aDQ
Purposeful Pause – free online 15mins mindfulness meditation practice each Monday at midday with Josie Thomson https://josiethomson.com/pp