ON A MISSION TO:

Redefine what it means to be tough
Smash the stigma that exists around mental health
Build open and supportive communities

1 in 5 people experience a mental health challenge each year in Australia.

Despite these numbers continually increasing, there is still a strong stigma that exists around mental health within society.

Historically when faced with a mental health challenge being ‘tough’ meant putting on a brave face, suppressing emotions and avoiding difficult conversations.

This version of ‘tough’ can contribute to poor mental health, as well as negatively effecting relationships and overall community connection.

Instilling a new version of ‘tough’ within rural and regional Australian communities has the ability to positively impact the mental health, wellbeing and connection of it’s people.

Mike Rolls and Ben Pettingill are dedicated to addressing these challenges and reducing the stigma attached to mental health through their real, raw and relatable approach. Mike and Ben (affectionately known as Legless & Blind), harness their lived experience of facing adversity, along with extensive research, to deliver practical and powerful sessions that cut through to audiences like no other.

‘Talkin Tough’ sessions are designed to redefine what it means to be tough, smash mental health stigma and connect with audiences in a practical and relatable way.

In these sessions, Mike & Ben instil a more effective version of what it means to be tough as they share - tough is talking!

Both Mike Rolls and Ben Pettingill know first hand what it’s like to face extreme adversity and battle their own mental health challenges. Through this, they have learned the importance of a positive mindset, prioritising their mental health and the power of having a strong support network.

In September 2001 Mike contracted one of the deadliest diseases on the planet, Meningococcal Septicaemia resulting in the loss of his legs below his knees amongst other injuries.

At age 16, Ben had a headache one day and woke up the next having lost 98% of his eyesight overnight due to a rare genetic syndrome.

Both of these circumstances changed what their lives would entail forever.

In the work they do with communities around Australia, they strive to reduce stigma and have a positive impact on the mental health of people right around the country.

Mike and Ben also keep mental health front of mind and ignite powerful conversations about what it really means to be ‘tough’ through their podcast, ‘Talkin Tough’.