Are They Triple OK?
The R U OK? Are They Triple OK? podcast shares insights from emergency service personnel, from the love of the job to the challenges which it brings. We hear the voices of those with lived experience and share practical tools & tips on how we can increase social support for emergency services personnel, how to build a mentally healthy workplace and how to a conversation with a peer or loved one who might be doing it tough. Note: This podcast series discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. Find Help for a directory of national support services.
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Megan Walkley/ SAAS & Charlotte Hunter/ WA DFES
09/19/2024
Megan Walkley/ SAAS & Charlotte Hunter/ WA DFES
Megan Walkley is a Paramedic and Operations Team Leader with the South Australian Ambulance Service and has been with the organisation for over 20 years. Charlotte Hunter is a psychologist, specialising in organisation psychology and Project Manager within the Mental Health and Wellbeing Team at the Department of Fire and Emergency Services in Western Australia. Megan and Charlotte share practical tools and tips on how increase peer support and how to build a supportive workplace culture. Hosted by Matt Newlands, R U OK? Community Ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt Currently works at and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Charlotte Hunter & Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Ross Blowers / Surf Life Saving NSW
09/19/2024
Ross Blowers / Surf Life Saving NSW
Ross Blowers, former president of the Lower North Coast Branch of Surf Life Saving NSW and has been part of the surf lifesaving community for over 30 years. Ross shares his insights and experiences to help increase social support for surf life savers and their community. Hosted by Matt Newlands, R U OK? Community Ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt Currently works at and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Luke Trewartha / Country Fire Service
09/19/2024
Luke Trewartha / Country Fire Service
Luke Trewartha has been an active volunteer with the South Australian Country Fire Service for over 20 years. As Deputy Group Officer, Luke is passionate about the wellbeing of the people within the service. Hosted by Matt Newlands, R U OK? Community Ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt Currently works at and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by: R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Matt Ireland / NSW Police Force
09/19/2024
Matt Ireland / NSW Police Force
Content warning: This episode discusses physical violence and suicidality. Matt Ireland has recently celebrated 25 years in the NSW Police Force. Matt shares his personal experience of living with PTSD, returning to work after a traumatic incident and the importance of having R U OK? conversations. Hosted by Matt Newlands, R U OK? Community Ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt Currently works at and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Matt Ireland Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Anastasia Bougesis / Disaster Relief Australia
09/19/2024
Anastasia Bougesis / Disaster Relief Australia
Anastasia Bougesis been a member of Disaster Relief Australia since 2017, where she’s held the position of Government Relations Manager. Anastasia offers insights on how to support communities who have been impacted by natural disasters. Hosted by Matt Newlands, R U OK? Community Ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt Currently works at and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Latisha Whalan / Fortem Australia
09/19/2024
Latisha Whalan / Fortem Australia
Content warning: This episode discusses family and domestic violence. Latisha Whalan is a First Nations Police Officer and a volunteer ambassador at Fortem Australia. Latisha shares her journey and how we can support first responders and their family and friends. Hosted by Matt Newlands, R U OK? Community Ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt Currently works at and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Garry Sims APM / NSW Police / Part 2
02/15/2023
Garry Sims APM / NSW Police / Part 2
With over 30 years’ experience in law enforcement, Detective Chief Inspector is a serving member of NSW Police and a dedicated R U OK? community ambassador. In this episode you will hear: How to deal with grief and guilt How to spot the signs that someone might be struggling How to prepare for an R U OK? Conversation Hosted by , R U OK? community ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt currently works at (MESHA) and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Garry Sims APM / NSW Police / Part 1
02/14/2023
Garry Sims APM / NSW Police / Part 1
With over 30 years’ experience in law enforcement, Detective Chief Inspector is a serving member of NSW Police and a dedicated R U OK? community ambassador. In this episode you will hear about: Garry’s experience in losing a peer to suicide Breaking down stigma amongst first responders The importance of building a workplace culture that encourages connections and conversations Hosted by , R U OK? community ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt currently works at (MESHA) and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Tara Lal / Fire + Rescue NSW / Part 2
02/13/2023
Tara Lal / Fire + Rescue NSW / Part 2
is a professional firefighter and peer support officer with Fire + Rescue NSW. Tara is also a PhD candidate. Her research focuses on the impact of suicide on firefighters and how the voices of those with lived experiences can effect meaningful change at an individual, organisational and community level. In this episode you will hear insights into: Tara’s PhD research into firefighters and their experiences of suicide The role of peer support officers How family and friends can support loved ones in the emergency services Hosted by , R U OK? community ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt currently works at (MESHA) and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Tara Lal / Fire + Rescue NSW / Part 1
02/12/2023
Tara Lal / Fire + Rescue NSW / Part 1
is a professional firefighter and peer support officer with Fire + Rescue NSW. Tara is also a PhD candidate. Her research focuses on the impact of suicide on firefighters and how the voices of those with lived experiences can effect meaningful change at an individual, organisational and community level. In this episode you will hear insights into: How Tara found meaning after the loss of her brother to suicide How to integrate work and personal life as a first responder Strategies to help break down self-stigma Hosted by , R U OK? community ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt currently works at (MESHA) and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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James Maskey / Fortem Australia / Part 2
02/11/2023
James Maskey / Fortem Australia / Part 2
, is a former Queensland police officer with a passion to enhance the mental, physical, and social wellbeing of the first responder community. His contribution is reflected through his work at and previously in Beyond Blue’s Police and Emergency Services Program. This episode will explore: national survey Practical tools & tips to drive cultural change and build a mentally healthy workplace The importance of an R U OK? Conversation Hosted by , R U OK? community ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt currently works at (MESHA) and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast series discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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James Maskey / Fortem Australia / Part 1
02/10/2023
James Maskey / Fortem Australia / Part 1
, is a former Queensland police officer with a passion to enhance the mental, physical, and social wellbeing of the first responder community. His contribution is reflected through his work at and previously in Beyond Blue’s Police and Emergency Services Program. In this episode will you hear about: James’ personal lived experience The impact identity has on first responders The role of agencies in supporting mental health and wellbeing of their people Hosted by Matt Newlands, R U OK? community ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt currently works at (MESHA) and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast series discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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Are They Triple OK? Trailer
02/09/2023
Are They Triple OK? Trailer
Hosted by Matt Newlands, R U OK? community ambassador, former police officer, counsellor, and mental health advocate. Matt currently works at (MESHA) and is a proud husband and father. Note: This podcast series discusses mental health, including suicide. For professional support please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others please seek immediate assistance by calling 000. for a directory of national support services. Visit for more information and practical tips on asking ‘are you OK?’ CREDITS: Host: Guest: Guest: Guest: Supported by R U OK? acknowledge the lands on which this podcast was recorded and pay our respects to elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the diversity of First Nations peoples and cultures, their ongoing connection to country and the strength garnered through such connections.
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