From Misery to Mindfulness Mastery — with John Shearer

In this powerful episode of The Dads Who Coach Podcast, we sit down with John Shearer, a passionate advocate for mental health, suicide prevention, and the power of personal storytelling. John’s remarkable life journey — from surviving a devastating truck crash and enduring 15 years in the mental health system, to discovering mindfulness, spirituality, and purpose — offers profound lessons for dads and coaches alike.

John’s work has touched millions through live talks, documentaries, radio, podcasts, and more. As the founder of mindfullymad.org, John champions authentic, unscripted conversations around mental health, helping others reclaim their lives by embracing mindfulness and rewriting their inner stories.

 

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In This Episode, You Will Learn:

✅ How John transformed 15 dark years of psychosis, depression, and medication into a life of purpose, peace, and service.
✅ Why pausing and connecting — even for a few seconds — can unlock clarity, creativity, and better relationships.
✅ The role of childhood trauma in shaping mental health — and how dads can break cycles for the next generation.
✅ How to build a personal, daily mindfulness practice that sticks — even if you think you’ve "tried mindfulness before and it didn’t work."
✅ Why spirituality (in whatever form resonates) is the missing piece in most mental health recovery journeys.

 

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Stand-Out Moments:

🎙️ John’s story of a surprise knock at the door on World Mental Health Day — and how it led to his spiritual awakening.
🎙️ The insight that every mental challenge contains a hidden gift — if you’re willing to face it and do the work.
🎙️ John’s mantra: Be Mindful. Pause. Connect. — a deceptively simple practice that can transform your life.
🎙️ Our candid exchange about family stigma, growing up with a sibling facing mental health challenges, and the power of compassionate presence as dads.

 

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John’s Gift for Listeners:
John has generously offered access to his book Mindful Insights, a practical guide to building your own mindful practice over 52 weeks.

👉 Get your copy here

 

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Connect with John Shearer:
Website: mindfullymad.org

Search: Be Mindful. Pause. Connect. on Facebook to find John’s work and resources.

 

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Listen Now:

If you’re a dad who’s ever felt stuck, stressed, or unsure how to balance your own inner work with showing up fully for your kids, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.