Our awesome Regional Coordinator on the Sunshine Coast, QLD chats to local radio station Caboolture Community 101.5FM with Rotary Association member Shane.
Reece shares with listeners how our programs work in schools and across community – he creates a brave space for young men to be respectful to each other, those around them and themselves.
With honesty and heart, Reece highlights some of the real challenges young males face—and how Top Blokes is helping to create meaningful change.
At the core of Reece’s message is the belief that young men need brave spaces where they feel safe to be vulnerable, open, and real. “We come in as mentors,” Reece says, “and we want to make sure they are seen and heard.” Whether it’s in schools or community spaces, Top Blokes programs are designed to build emotional literacy, critical thinking, and respect—for self and others.
Reece shares that many boys are carrying anger, stress, and unspoken burdens—and simply need the tools and support to unpack it. “Hands up if you’re still angry about something from six months ago,” he asks during sessions. The response is overwhelming, and it’s a clear sign of how deeply these emotions run.
But it’s not all heavy. The beauty of the program lies in the transformation. One young man went from disengaged and isolated to proudly leading his group and reconnecting with school, family, and sport. “He was just stuck in his head,” Reece explains. “Top Blokes helped him realise he was loved.”
Real talk at home
Raising young people in today’s busy world isn’t easy—but you don’t have to do it alone. Reece shares some practical ways parents can support their sons through the ups and downs of growing up. From sparking honest conversations to modelling emotional strength, these tips are all about creating a home where young men feel safe, seen, and supported.
1. Encourage open conversations
Reece encourages parents to ask open-ended questions and really listen. Instead of just “How was school?”—try, “What was the best part of your day?” or “What was challenging today?” This builds trust and makes emotional check-ins feel normal.
2. Go FirsT
Kids often follow your lead. Reece suggests parents model openness by sharing something about their own day—especially if it was tough. “If you’ve had a challenge, say it. Age-appropriate, of course—but showing that adults have off days too helps normalise talking about emotions.”
3. Use a Simple Check-In Tool
One of Top Blokes’s favourite techniques? A “1 to 10″ check-in. Each family member rates their mood—no need to explain, just a number. It sparks awareness, empathy, and lets everyone know how the others are feeling.
4. Reinforce That Seeking Support is a Strength
Reece is passionate about shifting the mindset that asking for help is a weakness. He encourages parents to talk openly about mental health and reassure their sons that expressing emotions and reaching out is a powerful and courageous act.
5. Lead by Example
Model kindness, respect, and healthy boundaries. Show what emotional self-care looks like. Reece reminds us that “young men watch everything”—and what they see at home often shapes how they act in the world.
As Top Blokes continues to grow, Reece’s vision is clear—reach more schools, create more brave spaces, and empower more young men to lead their lives with authenticity and resilience. And with the support of parents, schools, and community partners, that vision is becoming a reality.
Thanks to 101.5FM for bringing us on the show.
