JJ Comerford | Updates

Battle Armour Episode 3 with Brad Spillane , Host of the Men's Mental Health Radio & Podcast Show.

JJ Comerford — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Bradley “Brad” Spillane is a driving force for men’s mental health in Australia, turning his own story of pain and survival into a platform that helps thousands of men feel less alone and more understood. Brad is the founder and host of the Men’s Mental Health Show, broadcast on Radio Blue Mountains 89.1 and released as a podcast featuring guests with personal or professional experience in mental health, and from his base in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales. Brad has become a recognised advocate, community volunteer, and spokesperson for men’s mental health and men’s health more broadly. After the breakdown of his marriage, Brad’s life spiralled, and he made two serious suicide attempts in 2013 and 2014, spending months in hospital recovering from his injuries. and he now draws on those experiences to speak openly about how childhood pain, long-term illness, and body image can feed deep anger and self-destructive patterns. Encouraged by a friend after he began sharing his journey on the radio, Brad created the Men’s Mental Health Show as a space where vulnerability is framed as courage, strength, and bravery rather than weakness. Each week, he sits down face-to-face with guests in the Katoomba studio to explore topics like suicide prevention, grief, community, masculinity, recovery, and everyday mental fitness. Through the show and his involvement with initiatives like Walk ’n’ Talk For Life, he promotes connection, movement, and conversation as practical tools for keeping people safe and supported. His mix of humour, honesty, and lived experience has made him a trusted voice in schools, local organisations, and community events, helping to normalise talking about suicide, trauma, and hope.This post is a tribute to Brad for turning some of the darkest chapters of his life into a lighthouse for others, for every conversation that has helped someone make it through another day, and for proving that real strength is found in telling the truth about how it actually feels to be human.

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Battle Armour Episode 2 with Pat Blacker

JJ Comerford — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Pat Blacker is a powerful example of how lived experience, compassion, and community work can come together to change lives, especially for people touched by suicide, grief, and mental health challenges. Working with StandBy – Support After Suicide in the Nepean and Blue Mountains region, Pat walks alongside individuals and communities after a suicide, helping them navigate some of the hardest days of their lives. As a regular voice on the Men’s Mental Health Show on Radio Blue Mountains, he brings a grounded, real-world perspective to conversations about grief, self-compassion, healthy habits, and community support.

Pat lives with epilepsy and has faced the confronting reality of needing brain surgery, a journey he has openly shared to deepen understanding and reduce stigma around both neurological and mental health conditions. By speaking publicly about what he has been through, he gives others permission to be honest about their own struggles and to see courage not as “having it all together,” but as showing up anyway. Through StandBy, he helps create safe spaces where people can talk about loss, guilt, love, and the long, non-linear road of healing after suicide.

On air and in person, Pat champions connection, positive masculinity, and the power of small, consistent habits, reminding men in particular that asking for help and talking about emotions are acts of strength, not weakness. He represents the kind of quiet leadership that holds communities together: showing up at the kitchen table, in the studio, at local events, and in those raw moments when there are more questions than answers. This post is a thank you to Pat for the work seen and unseen, for every conversation that helped someone get through another day, and for reminding us that community care is built one brave story at a time.

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Off The Comma Podcast

JJ Comerford — Fri, 5 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Very grateful to have had the opportunity to speak with Paul on his off-the-comma podcast.

If you haven't listened to Paul, check him out on the link below:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/02lEsMPfO330Pq6jslzQiJ?si=lKRaRX0GSf2RmdVjzsL4MQ

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Release of Episode 01 of The Battle Armour Podcast with Craig Hughes - Cashmore CEO of SAMSN

JJ Comerford — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Battle Armour is a men’s mental health podcast that shares authentic stories of resilience, suicide survival, and recovery, especially for men and their families who have lived with long-term trauma like childhood sexual abuse. The show gives voice to survivors, their families, and those who have grieved, so listeners feel understood and supported rather than isolated.

The tone is calm, straight-talking, and human: we discuss the hard stuff without sugar-coating it.

Across the series, I sit down with people who have faced mental health struggles and suicide , from those who have tried to those who have grieved—so listeners hear both sides of the story.

In the first episodes, I am extremely honoured to speak with Craig Hughes-Cashmore , CEO and co-founder of Survivors & Mates Support Network .

Craig has spent years turning his own experience into a powerful force for change, building trauma informed peer support groups, advocacy, and education that help men feel less alone and more understood. In our conversation on Battle Armour, Craig brings deep honesty, compassion, and hard-won insight about disclosure, recovery, and the healing power of connection, setting the tone for the podcast as a place for real, courageous conversations about men’s mental health and survival.

🎧 If you care about men’s mental health, trauma recovery, or supporting someone you love, Battle Armour is for you. Listen in, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and join the conversation about what it really means to wear your battle armour not to hide, but to heal.

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Battle Armour podcast logo change

JJ Comerford — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The reason behind the whole Battle Armour cover is to show the two sides of surviving trauma: the armour you build to protect yourself and the soft, living part of you that still wants to grow.
• The metal title and helmet represent the tough outer shell you create after years of pain, shame, and self-protection – the battle mode you live in just to get through each day.
• The cracked ground shows the damage and fractures that trauma leaves underneath that armour, even when everything looks solid on the surface.
• The dandelion growing from the cracks symbolises you choosing life after everything you have been through – the part of you that keeps pushing up through the brokenness.
• The seeds floating away suggest release: speaking the truth, letting go of secrets, and allowing parts of the old story to drift off so something new can begin.
So the cover is there to say that real battle armour is not just hardness; it is the courage to face the cracks, to let yourself be seen, and to grow anyway.

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International Mens Podcast - Average Joes

JJ Comerford — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

So great to catch up with Wayne and the team at the Average Joes podcast on International Men's Day.

We caught up about Battle Armour, and I spoke about a few of the tools that men can use.

Episode below.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ufmMGDoozkINB4z3YUSA8

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Real Lives Real Stories with Naomi Channell

JJ Comerford — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/real-lives

John Comerford was raised in a home where he felt happy, safe and loved. But when he went to high school, his teacher took those feelings from him. He was physically and sexually abused by his teacher and it changed his life forever. After he left school, he was left with the emotional scars and deep routed trauma that made him want to take the life of the man who had caused him so much pain. So he loaded a shotgun and made his way school...In this episode, John tells us his story and how, after his journey of healing, he has helped many other victims of child abuse. This is REAL LIVES. To find John's books, see here: https://jjcomerford.com/booksThe organisation that helped John is here: www.samsn.org.auIf you need help or support please see these organisations that can help: https://www.thesurvivorstrust.org/ - For people who have been the victim of sexual abuse (UK)https://www.rainn.org/ - Sexual Abuse Support USAhttps://www.nasasv.org.au/support-directory or www.samsn.org.au - Sexual Abuse Support Australia https://www.rcni.ie/useful-links/ - Sexual Abuse Support Ireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information

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Octobers Brainz Article

JJ Comerford — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The hidden epidemic

For too many men, the pain of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is never acknowledged, let alone spoken of. Globally, more than 1 in 13 boys are sexually abused before 18, yet the repercussions for male survivors, especially suicide, are only starting to gain public attention. Behind closed doors, beneath the expected mask of masculinity, countless men hide wounds that shape their every thought and action

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World Survivor Day

JJ Comerford — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

There was a time when this face represented silence, shame, and a pain I didn’t know how to survive.

For decades, this man’s actions shaped how I saw myself — broken, voiceless, unworthy.

But today, on National Survivor Day, I take that power back.

I show his face not to relive the trauma, but to reclaim the truth. To name what so many of us have been forced to bury.

I am not his secret anymore.

I am the man I became after.

The one who chose to live, to speak, to heal — and to help others do the same.

This isn’t about revenge. It’s about courage. It’s about standing up for every survivor who’s been told to stay quiet.

Because silence protects predators, and I promised my 11 year old self I would NEVER be silenced again

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Podcast with Average Joes

JJ Comerford — Tue, 7 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Very grateful to catch up with Wayne and the team at Average Joes. Listen in on the link below.

https://averagejoes.net.au/

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New Podcast : Battle Armour. Coming November 26!

JJ Comerford — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

“Battle Armour is a bold new podcast by John Comerford launching November 25, dedicated to men’s mental health and the real stories of survival, resilience, and recovery. Through powerful conversations and honest reflections, Battle Armour tackles difficult subjects like trauma, shame, and courage, helping men find strength and hope in the face of adversity. Join John as he explores what it means to heal, speak up, and redefine masculinity for the next generation.”

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SEPTEMBER BRAINZ ARTICLE

JJ Comerford — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Childhood sexual abuse leaves deep psychological scars that ripple into adulthood, often shaping the way survivors relate to intimacy, trust, and their own bodies. Among the lasting impacts, one area receiving growing attention is the strong correlation between early sexual trauma and compulsive sexual behaviours in adulthood, commonly referred to as sex addiction. Understanding this connection is vital, not only for mental health professionals but for survivors seeking to reclaim agency and begin the process of healing. This understanding enlightens us about the complex interplay of trauma and addiction, empowering us to provide better support and care.

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What Came Next Podcast with Amy B Chesler ( Coming Soon)

JJ Comerford — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Grateful to Amy B. Chesler and What Comes Next
I had the absolute pleasure of joining Amy B. Chesler on her podcast What Comes Next, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity.
Amy is such a thoughtful and engaging host who knows how to create space for real, meaningful conversations. Our discussion gave me the chance to reflect, share more about my journey, and explore the themes behind my work in a deeper way.
A huge thank you to Amy for inviting me and for the important platform she’s built—one that celebrates stories, resilience, and the power of human connection.
If you haven’t already, I highly recommend listening to What Comes Next and experiencing the incredible lineup of guests she brings together. Being part of this podcast was an honor, and I’m so appreciative of the time we shared.

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Peoples Choice Award Finalist Book of the Year

JJ Comerford — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Finalist for People’s Choice Book of the Year!
I’m beyond grateful to announce that my book has been named a finalist for People’s Choice Book of the Year!
This nomination feels extra special because it comes directly from readers. Knowing that so many of you connected with the story enough to cast your vote means the world to me. Writing is about sharing something meaningful, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that it has resonated with you.
A huge thank you to everyone who has supported the book so far—whether by reading, recommending it to others, or taking the time to vote. Your encouragement has carried me through this journey, and I couldn’t be here without you.
Win or lose, being part of this list alongside such talented authors is an honor in itself. I’m excited to see where this moment takes us, and even more excited to keep telling stories that matter.

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Excited to have made the finals for Book of The Year

JJ Comerford — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

We Made the Finals for Book of the Year!

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news: my book has been selected as a finalist for Book of the Year!

Reaching this stage is truly an honour, and I’m grateful to everyone who has read, supported, and championed this work along the way. Writing a book is often a solitary journey, but recognition like this reminds me how much it resonates beyond my desk—it’s about connection, shared stories, and ideas that matter.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to:
- The judges who believed in this book’s voice and vision
- My readers, whose encouragement and feedback mean everything
- My family, friends, and community who have been unwavering in their support

No matter the outcome, being named a finalist is already a dream come true. I’m excited for what comes next and to stand alongside so many other talented authors who have made it into the finals.

Stay tuned for updates as we head toward the announcement of the winner—and thank you again for being part of this journey!

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Authentic Insider Article

JJ Comerford — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Very proud to have been able to contribute an article to A Trauma Survivor Thriver's Podcast , suicide and prevention awareness month.

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Brainz Article

JJ Comerford — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

There’s a word we carry quietly, locked behind the armour we build to survive: lonely. For men, especially those stumbling through the long shadow of childhood trauma, loneliness is not just a passing mood; it’s an epidemic, gnawing at self-worth, sabotaging connection, and deepening wounds that never seem to heal. In 2025, loneliness in men isn’t just trending on social media; it’s a public health crisis, woven through the stories we refuse to tell and the pain we rarely admit. This article, written in solidarity with every man who has ever felt unseen, explores why loneliness devastates male mental health, how childhood trauma shapes isolation, and ways to reclaim connection and hope.

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Podcast with Gloria Masters

JJ Comerford — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Gloria is a Survivor, Author and Speaker.

She released the global hand signal for Under 16’s to use who are being abused/not safe. #Handsign4kids

She also launched the Global Awareness Day on June 16, dedicated to adult survivors of child sexual abuse, which reached across the world. There are 16 Million + views of her story and videos across all social media.

Her incredible journey from darkness into light is one of hope, resilience and the unrelenting power of the human spirit to survive. She comes from New Zealand, where she was born into sex trafficking, and trained by her grandmother to be the best child sex worker possible. For the first sixteen years of her life, Gloria suffered horrendous sexual, physical and psychological abuse at the hands of her father, with no one to protect her. From the underworld of her father’s paedophile ring to the groups he trafficked her to, she found an inner strength and a light that shone so brightly, her mind was the one thing that could not be destroyed. She shines light onto child abuse, challenging us to believe children when they speak out, and that it takes one voice to make a difference.

She has also written three books: Her memoir ‘On Angels Wings’ – My Flight from Trauma to Grace, detailing sixteen years of unparalleled sexual abuse and trauma, and her second book, Flightpath to Healing – A Guide for Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) which is an experiential guide for survivors to use. Her third book, Keepings Kids Safe – A Roadmap for Parents, Teachers & Others has already won awards and is being acclaimed globally.

She is the Founder and CEO of Handing the Shame Back Foundation, a charity dedicated to the up to 1 in 3 Adult survivors of child sexual abuse globally.

She created and hosts the YouTube and podcast channel Handing the shame back presenting interviews and resources designed exclusively for survivors.

She runs events, does public speaking and coaches individuals and groups across the world.

Her purpose in life is to Help others, by shining light onto this darkness through love and humility

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Mens Mental Health Radio show & Podcast

JJ Comerford — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Men’s Mental Health Show with Brad Spillane. is an open, honest, and deeply impactful program that tackles the often-overlooked struggles men face in silence. Hosted by Brad Spillane, the show creates a safe space for men to share their lived experiences while breaking down the stigma surrounding mental illness, trauma, and emotional vulnerability. With conversations that range from personal stories of survival to expert insights on psychology, wellbeing, and masculinity, the show is both a lifeline and a loudspeaker—reminding listeners that no man has to battle his demons alone.
What sets the program apart is its raw authenticity and its commitment to community. Guests, including survivors, advocates, and mental health professionals, engage in heartfelt dialogue that reaches beyond stereotypes and surface-level discussions. Every episode encourages men to speak up, seek help, and embrace emotional honesty as a strength rather than a weakness. By normalizing these conversations, the Men’s Mental Health Show isn’t just raising awareness—it’s actively changing lives and helping to forge a culture where men feel heard, supported, and empowered.

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Podcast with Mike Chapman

JJ Comerford — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Mike Chapman is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and sexual trafficking, and a survivor of sexual assault by clergy as a young adult. In his spiritual journey to recovery, Mike has had to battle, among other things, anger, PTSD, anxiety, codependency, and addictive behaviors, including porn addiction. Mike is also a Full-Time Sign Language Interpreter and a Part-Time Santa Claus Portrayal Artist. He’s been happily married to his wife Beth for over 32 years, and they have 2 adult children – Lizzy and Mac. He and Beth live in Wilson, NC. Mike is currently a part-time Recovery Life Coach for both Polar Life Consulting and Husband Material. To find out more or to contact Mike, email him at PolarLifeConsulting@gmail.com and has a new podcast that is now available: “Healing for Male Survivors with Mike Chapman.”

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