The Mendis Podcast
The Mendis Podcast is a grounded, honest space for men navigating disability, diagnosis, mental health, and major life change.
Hosted by Mendis, the podcast blends real conversations, lived-experience stories, reflective blog readings, and guided calm practices designed to meet people where they are. Episodes range from the Diagnosed series — exploring identity, misdiagnosis, and the weight of medical labels — to guided “Chill-Pills,” interviews, and community reflections focused on resilience, connection, and growth.
All episodes are available in audio and written form, supporting listeners who are visually impaired, neurodivergent, or experiencing fatigue.
This is not about fixing men.
It’s about sitting with what’s real — and moving forward together.
The Mendis Podcast
Diagnosed Series - Multiple Sclerosis with Jesse Frick
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Jesse Frick was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis whilst preparing for exams in year 12. A hugely talented young man, he had everything ahead of him – when life threw this enormous curve ball.
Jesse’s brother is an old school mate of mine and so I’ve followed his journey from a distance and as fate would have it Jesse is now leading a choir at Parkinson’s SA – so naturally and fortuitously our paths crossed. He is now cruising around in an electric wheelchair and finding ways to impact lives for the better. I was interested to chat with him and by the end of our conversation just incredibly thankful he spared the time to talk to me – I think it is fair to say that having a significant challenge in your life can contribute to an amazing depth of perspective and perhaps hurry the development of wisdom.
In order to set our meeting up I agreed to attend the Parkinson’s choir – so firstly I need to apologise to the rest of the singing group.
I also remembered to turn on the microphone a little late, but you’ll join us as we were chatting shortly after my first choir lesson – which was of course led by Jesse!