Welcome to the all new my imperfect email.
We’ve got a new name, a new look and a new episode!
The imperfects newsletter, formally know as the vulnerabilitea-mail is now my imperfect email.
As always, every week, we’ll send a question that will help you reflect on your own imperfect life, inspired by this week’s episode.
We were graced by the presence of Joe Williams this week, who talks about finding power through truth, the patience required for parenting, and, well, the beauty of being present.
Grab a cuppa and enjoy,
Bell Northeast
what is a realisation that made you want to be a better version of yourself?
We'd love to hear your answer to this question. If you're in the mood to get vulnerable and share your writing, send it through.
in a portrait of your life right now, who is in the frame? what do they mean to you?
If I were to paint a portrait of my life today, it would be a vibrant scene from a daring mountain adventure.
I’m currently at a moment of pause, a vital rest spot, taking in the panoramic view, fully aware that the metaphorical mountain of life still stretches before me. My “guides”, dressed like seasoned Sherpas, are the people who have brought me to this vantage point.
First and foremost is my wife, Jo. She has been an absolutely central figure in this stage of my journey – my biggest champion, a steadfast rock through thick and thin, and an utterly gorgeous human who is endlessly understanding, supportive, and willing to go above and beyond.
Then there's Hendo, an irreplaceable friend who is simply always there, no matter what, no matter where or when. He listens without question and provides the invaluable space I need to breathe.
A select few from my running community are also by my side, each contributing their unique strengths to help propel me to the next level of my personal growth.
And, perhaps most profoundly, my family – my mum, nan, my brothers, and our children – are all here, kicking back, fully present, and revelling in this shared moment together.
The last twelve months have tested me profoundly; I confronted the biggest demon I've ever had to work through. It is no exaggeration to say that if it weren't for these incredible individuals – holding me, supporting me, and providing the safe space to express, release, and ultimately comprehend these overwhelming emotions – I simply would not have made it this far.
It's a failsafe support network, a lifeline, that I genuinely wish everyone could experience.
Shane
Thank you to Shane for getting vulnerable and sharing their reflection with us, and with all of you!
Always vulnerable responsibly.
Concussion, bipolar and being a dad
With Joe Williams
Joe Williams has lived enough lives for three or four people.
Approached by 5 NRL clubs by the time he was 13, Joe was a sporting prodigy. Thrust into the spotlight Joe was introduced to a world of concussions, accolades and copious amounts of drugs and alcohol.
Now 18 years sober, Joe is honest about how he found his power through truth and the experiences and learnings through which he navigates racism and understands human behaviour.
Joe chats to Josh about the difference between being a dad and a father, and how he has found compassion for his younger self.
This conversation also touches on Joe’s bipolar diagnosis, his relationship with the natural environment and the incredible difference that he is making in the mental health space now.
Joe, we can’t believe you found the time to join us. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.
This week on A Little More Imperfects:
We have an election coming up, and Hugh’s pulling out all of the stops (because desperate times call for desperate measures).
We’ve got an exclusive / not for public knowledge / sneak peek into something VERY VULNY coming your way soon, and Josh is a little bit nervous in the role he is playing in the reveal.
Hugh gives Ryan and Josh his permission to be one-on-one friends.
Anddddd a little bit of a different ad than usual today. We’re auctioning off producer Bell (in a cool, progressive, and consensual way). So if you think you might be the one, ummmm, yeah, hit us up.
Goodbye, our lovelies