Ep 47. He Lost Everything to Depression - Then Started Australia's Biggest Mental Health Movement w/ Graeme Cowan
Have you ever been so far down that you genuinely couldn't see a way out? Not just a bad week — but months, then years, of not being okay? That's where today's guest was. And what he built from that place changed the entire country.
In this episode, we sit down with Graeme Cowan — co-founder of R U OK? Day, author of Great Leaders Care, and host of The Caring CEO podcast (ranked #2 globally for workplace mental health) — to unpack what severe depression, an ICU admission, and a five-year recovery really look like from the inside, and what Graeme has since learned about building a life and a career that doesn't cost you your mind.
We explore how one of the most significant mental health movements in Australian history grew directly from one man's darkest chapter — and what that means for all of us who are quietly struggling.
Through powerful stories and real-life examples, we dive into:
What severe depression actually looks like from the inside (and why it often hides behind a high-performing exterior)
The surprising origin story of R U OK? Day — and why it almost didn't happen
The Mood Meter: the simple self-check tool from Graeme's book that's changing how leaders track wellbeing at work
Why 99.67% of workplace mental health suffering is invisible to official systems — and what that means for your team
The four pillars of a thriving life: Mindset, Vitality, Intimacy, and Prosperity
Why hope isn't soft — and what Scott learned the hard way when a doctor took his away
The one thing Graeme does every single day that's kept him well for over two decades
If you're going through something right now — or leading people who might be — this episode is worth your full attention.
Connect with Graeme Cowan:
Website
Linkedin
📖 Great Leaders Care — available in all good bookstores
🎙️ The Caring CEO podcast — search wherever you listen
Resources: