Hosts Dave and Daryl share Grow news and updates in this festive episode: holiday group opening dates and online options, highlights from the 2024–25 member survey (including a 76% reduction in suicidal thoughts), the new Blue Book and updated group method card, and a big thank-you to volunteers and staff. They encourage members to stay connected over Christmas, explain where to find resources, and invite listeners to send local news or questions via the Grow website.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss recent community weekend activities like box car races and frisbee golf. They cover branch conferences, the role of branch program teams, and explain the two editions of the new Blue Book—one with faith-based alternative wording to preserve tradition. The episode also notes staff farewells, training resources, and guidance on group meetings over the Christmas period, with links for listeners to contact the hosts with questions or local news.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss updates to Grow’s literature and language, practical ways to tackle group problems, and upcoming episodes about working in correctional facilities.They also share a new personal testimony from Susie, encourage group leaders to use these conversations in meetings, and invite listener feedback and contact.

Welcome to Grow's program training and resource podcast, hosted by Daryl and Dave. In this episode, we dive into the concept of group problems and how to effectively address them within your Grow group. Daryl and Dave discuss the importance of bringing up issues during meetings, the role of the group method card, and the benefits of solving problems at the group level.Learn how to identify common group problems, such as starting meetings on time and maintaining confidentiality, and discover practical tasks and solutions to strengthen your group's dynamics. The hosts also emphasize the significance of 12-step work, social activities, and the feedback loop between group members and organizers.Whether you're a seasoned Grow leader or new to the role, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies to enhance the effectiveness and cohesion of your Grow group. Tune in and become better equipped to tackle any group challenges that arise.

Welcome to Grow's program training and resource podcast, hosted by Daryl and Dave. In this episode, they delve into the evolution of language within Grow's 12-step program, highlighting key changes and the rationale behind them. Learn about the history and updates to terms such as "inadequacy," "maladjustment," and "personal disorder," and how these reflect Grow's commitment to inclusivity and clarity.Daryl and Dave discuss the importance of the first step in the 12-step program, which involves admitting personal problems and the need for change. They explore the significance of personal responsibility, the challenges of adjusting to life, and how Grow's principles support mental health recovery and leadership development.Tune in to understand the vital role of language in shaping mental health support and how Grow's evolving terminology aims to meet the needs of its diverse membership. Join the conversation and gain insights into creating a supportive and effective Grow group.

Hosts Dave and Daryl share community updates from the GROW network, including a South Australian community weekend, rising podcast downloads, and new groups starting up.They reconnect with legend Helen Shaw and preview the re-release of Joanie’s Story — a powerful recovery tale of schizophrenia and the role of GROW in her healing.The episode also covers practical reminders about Christmas meeting arrangements, upcoming group elections and leadership transitions, the soon-to-be-published Blue Book, and where to find more GROW stories and contact information.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss recent Grow updates: a national strategy meeting with the program team, the new Blue Book and updated group method, a proposed review of the Yellow Book, highlights from the Grow New Zealand AGM, leadership transitions and a farewell to long-time member Teena, plus upcoming rollout plans and a special guest feature.

In episode five of the 2Ds Grow podcast, hosts Dave and Daryl discuss the launch of the revised and expanded Blue Book, share feedback and distribution updates, and highlight Mental Health Month events and local community activities across Australia and New Zealand.They talk about the importance of group connection, the program’s lived-experience wisdom, upcoming meetings and conferences, and how listeners can access and promote the podcast.Listeners are invited to send feedback, local grow news, or questions via the Grow website contact link or directly to Dave’s email.

Hosts Dave and Daryl share a brief weekly update on Grow: new Blue Book and training manual updates, group method housekeeping for online meetings, the importance of 12‑step outreach, and the launch of a new online Rainbow group for the LGBTQA+ community.They also mention an invite to the Grow New Zealand conference and remind listeners how to find groups or get in touch via the Grow website, rainbow@grow.org.au or davemaca@hotmail.com.

Hosts Dave and Daryl catch up on recent activity for the Grow community: platform releases (now on Apple Podcasts and other apps), e‑groups via Zoom, short courses like Get Growing and Growing Resilience, and the upcoming Blue Book rollout.They also discuss planning organiser and recorder elections, explain what a ‘passenger’ means in Grow meetings, and share practical tips and resources for local groups and listeners.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss the latest Grow updates: the forthcoming Blue Book and updated group method rollout, digital releases like Growing to Recovery Vol. 2 on Kindle, and highlights from the annual member survey showing the program's strong impact.They also cover reconciliation planning, Territory pilot programs with Defence personnel, shorter Growing Resilience courses, and invite listener questions for future episodes.

Hosts Dave and Daryl discuss their recent community weekend in Coffs Harbour, updates on the Grow Blue Book and group methods, upcoming community events, and invite listeners to submit questions and local Grow news.

In this episode Daryl and Dave explain why progress reports are a vital part of GROW group meetings, showing how tracking small practical tasks and peer follow-up turns short-term coping into long-term growth.They outline leadership tips for encouraging meaningful reports, connecting tasks to the five foundations of maturity and vital needs, and how group affirmation and accountability build hope and sustained recovery.

This episode explains the GROW group problems section: why bringing issues to the group matters, how to discuss and resolve them together, and when to escalate to Organisers & Recorders (O&R) or program workers.Hosts Daryl and Dave give practical examples (late starts, confidentiality, venue, membership and leadership concerns), show how to create a practical task and part of the program to support change, and encourage leaders to use group-level problem solving to build stronger, healthier meetings.

Explore the essence of leadership within the GROW program. Join us for an engaging discussion on how leadership in GROW is more about function than position, and how self-activation through mutual help can inspire personal growth and recovery.Discover real-life examples of leadership in action. Learn how members of GROW groups share progress reports, chair meetings, and provide support through their own experiences, fostering an environment of mutual encouragement and inspiration.Delve into the concept of self-leadership. Understand how being consistent in attending meetings, even when it's challenging, can make a significant impact, proving leadership sometimes means simply showing up and sharing your journey with honesty and integrity.

Welcome to this episode of GROW's training and resource podcast, where hosts Darryl and Dave explore the essential topic of leadership transition within GROW groups. Drawing on years of experience, Dave shares insights into the importance of stepping into leadership roles and nurturing new leaders within the community. The episode delves into the significance of a dynamic leadership structure in GROW, emphasizing the policy of rotating the organizer role every two years. Darryl and Dave discuss the benefits of this practice, including promoting personal growth, avoiding stagnation, and fostering a supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the group's success. Listeners will gain valuable tips on how to identify potential leaders, encourage participation, and ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities. The discussion highlights the broader benefits of leadership roles, such as personal development and the opportunity to give back to the GROW community. Whether you're a current leader or aspiring to take on a leadership role, this episode offers practical advice and encouragement to help you and your group thrive. Tune in to learn how to pass the baton effectively and keep your GROW group vibrant and engaged.

Welcome to this insightful episode of GROW's program training and resource podcast, where hosts Darryl and Dave are joined by a special guest, Teena, a seasoned GROW program worker. This episode delves into the vital role of a group organiser in the mental health recovery community, offering a unique perspective from someone who has journeyed through the GROW program from participant to leader. Throughout the discussion, Teena shares her experiences and insights into the responsibilities and personal growth opportunities that come with being a GROW group organiser. The conversation covers the historical context of the role, its dual nature in fostering leadership and personal development, and the importance of mentorship within the group. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how group organisers contribute to the community, the qualities that make an effective leader, and the support available for those taking on this role. Join us as we explore the transformative power of leadership within the GROW program and the rewarding journey of helping others in their mental health recovery.

Join us in this insightful episode as we welcome back Dave McLaughlin, a seasoned grower and esteemed member of our organization, to delve into the foundational principles of mental health recovery. Drawing from his vast experience and personal journey, Dave shares invaluable insights into the basics of the Grow program, aimed at fostering personal growth and recovery.The episode takes a reflective step back to explore the early principles encapsulated in the Grow program's blue book. Dave emphasizes the significance of the three basic convictions, determinations, and changes as essential starting points for anyone embarking on a journey towards mental health improvement. These basics are not just for those dealing with mental health issues but are integral to the success and maturity of all individuals.Listeners will gain an understanding of how these principles provide a framework for living a healthy lifestyle, overcoming intense feelings, and navigating through challenges such as depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Through real-life anecdotes and practical examples, Dave illustrates how adopting these foundational elements can lead to a more fulfilled and meaningful life.Whether you're new to the Grow program or seeking to reinforce your mental health journey, this episode offers a compelling narrative on the power of basics in shaping a positive path forward. Tune in to discover how embracing these foundational principles can transform your approach to mental health and personal growth.

Welcome to the latest episode of GROW's program training and resource podcast. Join hosts Daryl and Dave as they delve into the intricacies of managing GROW groups, focusing on the often-confusing aspects of opening, closing, and recessing these groups. With a blend of in-person and online meetings, the discussion highlights the importance of collaborative decision-making and the role of leadership in maintaining effective GROW groups. Explore the dynamics of starting new groups, whether they arise from growing existing groups or through interest from external organizations. Daryl and Dave emphasize the significance of teamwork and community involvement in establishing successful new groups. They also address the challenges faced by program workers and the benefits of fostering leadership within the GROW community. Additionally, the episode covers the reasons and processes behind closing groups or putting them into recess, always aiming to maintain the quality and effectiveness of the GROW program. Tune in to learn about the strategies and principles that guide these decisions, ensuring that GROW continues to support mental health recovery and leadership development effectively.

Welcome to the latest episode of Grow's program training and resource podcast, hosted by Daryl and Dave. In this episode, we delve into the significance of leadership roles within the Grow community. As a largely volunteer-driven organization, Grow relies on members stepping up to various roles to keep the group dynamic and supportive.Daryl and Dave discuss the importance of roles such as the organizer and recorder, highlighting how these positions not only benefit the group but also significantly contribute to the personal development and mental health recovery of the individuals who take them on. They emphasize the concept of lived experience leadership, where members use their own recovery journey to help others.The hosts explore the challenges and rewards of stepping into a leadership role, supported by research that shows higher levels of well-being among those who participate actively. They also touch on the broader opportunities within Grow, such as regional and branch program teams, offering members a chance to contribute at different levels.Throughout the episode, Daryl and Dave share personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to encourage participation and support new leaders in their journey. Tune in to learn how taking on a role in Grow can be a transformative experience, both for the individual and the community.For more information on Grow Groups, mental health resources, or to make a donation, please visit grow.org.