A groundbreaking new men’s mental health podcast series is launching from Brimscombe Mill — designed to get Britain talking and the world listening.
Simon Says, Let’s Talk is hosted by Dr Simon Opher MBE (GP) and supported by the NHS, Brimscombe Mill, and Craic Health. Each episode brings together leading voices from comedy, music, art, and sport to share real stories and practical tools for better mental fitness — by men, with men, for men.
The series launches in response to the UK’s growing men’s health crisis — with men accounting for 75% of suicides, being twice as likely to die from drug- and alcohol-related causes, and facing higher rates of isolation, incarceration, and educational disadvantage. Using humour, honesty and authentic conversation, Simon Says, Let’s Talk aims to help men reconnect, share experiences, and find new ways to live meaningful lives.
First Live Recording with Tom Walker (aka Jonathan Pie)
The first live recording takes place on Wednesday 20 November at The Sanctuary Space, Brimscombe Mill, featuring inaugural guest Tom Walker, best known for his satirical alter ego Jonathan Pie.
Audiences are invited to take part in this live recording before the episode is released globally as both a video and audio podcast.
What makes Simon Says, Let’s Talk truly innovative is its “podcast on prescription” model. Through Gloucestershire’s NHS social prescribing network, local GPs and clinicians can offer tickets directly to patients who may benefit most — turning conversation itself into a creative-health intervention.
NHS clinicians will be present at each event to provide private follow-up conversations for attendees who need additional support.
The events are open to men and those who support them, combining community, creativity, and connection.
EVENT DETAILS
Podcast: Simon Says, Let’s Talk: In Conversation with Tom Walker
Date: Wednesday 20 November 2025, 7–9 pm
Venue: The Sanctuary Space, Brimscombe Mill, Gloucestershire
Tickets:
- Free for prescribed attendees via GP referral
- Pay-as-you-can tickets available to the public (registration required)
Register: https://www.brimscombe-mill.org.uk/sanctuaryserie
Watch/Listen: https://craic.health | https://www.brimscombe-mill.org.uk
