The Art of Vulnerability – A Bigger Game Starts Within

Over the past few weeks, I’ve experienced a deeply personal milestone, the launch of my book, BLOKES INC. – Play a Bigger Game. This book is more than pages and print. It’s a call to action. A challenge to redefine strength, health, and happiness. A chance to assess your current level of wellness (physically and emotionally) and a reminder that vulnerability isn’t weakness, it’s the doorway to real leadership.

It’s wisdom in action.

It’s being strong when every part of you feels defensive.

It’s being open when you can’t see any clarity.

It’s choosing to lean in, even when retreat feels safer.

Trust me, I’ve been there. It felt like I could see the lifeguards, but they couldn't see me, and that’s when I learnt that vulnerability isn’t a solo game; it thrives in connection.

The past 48 hours have been a mix of achievement, reflection, and heartbreak as a son, a father, a husband, and a friend to many. On one hand, I launched my latest book, BLOKES INC. – Play a Bigger Game, a project grounded in purpose, calling on us to challenge what strength really looks like. On the other hand, I’ve been sitting with the pain and shock of losing not one, but two great men, the Selwood brothers, far too soon.

Their passing is a heartbreaking reminder that life is fragile, and our mental and emotional well-being must be part of the conversation daily. Not just in private. But out loud. In front of the people who need to hear it most.

Be strong when you feel defended. Be open when you can’t see any clarity.

Because sometimes, vulnerability isn’t optional; it’s lifesaving.

In this same space of reflection, I reconnected with two incredible men, @justinkoschizke and @warrendavis, both doing inspiring work in the health and resilience space. Their dedication to helping others navigate the tough stuff is a testament to what leadership truly is: showing up for others by first doing the inner work.

These conversations reminded me of something vital:

We don’t rise alone. We rise in community, and we grow when we let others see the real us.

As I continue on this mission to ‘Play A Bigger Game’, one truth rings louder than ever: I want to help one by helping many.

To create space for honest conversations.

To build a culture where asking for help is a sign of strength.

To remind us that playing a bigger game starts with playing a more real one.

To hold space for truth, for courage, for change.

If BLOKES INC. speaks to anything, it’s this:

Leadership starts with how willing you are to be seen.

If you’re ready to play a bigger game, start with this one question: How are you really…?

Let’s stop pretending we have it all together and start leaning into what’s real. It is a call to action then vulnerability is the doorway in. Let’s walk through it together.

HELP ONE - HELP MANY by sharing this post, asking questions, showing up and knowing we are all in it together!

Grab your copy of BLOKES INC here. Share this post with someone who needs to know they’re not alone.

Together, we rise.