A podcast REDEFINING WHAT IT MEANS TO BE TOUGH
BECAUSE THE TOUGH IS IN THE TALKIN.
ABOUT THE TALKIN TOUGH HOSTS
Mike Rolls & Ben pettingill are a double amputee & blind professional speaking duo who just happen to be best mates. These fellas are passionate about changing the narrative around what it means to be tough. on the quest to improve the mental health & resilience of anyone who tunes in, the fellas have conversations with everyday australians who have done it tough over their lifetime (& many who continue to do so) with the aim to show as many people as possible that sometimes, the tough is in the talkin.
MEET MIKE
In September 2001, at the age of 18, Mike’s life changed forever. He contracted one of the deadliest diseases on the planet, Meningococcal septicemia.
A lethal, fast acting and brutal infection left him with horrific internal and external injuries, including multiple amputations. Mike’s journey back to health was aided by a positive outlook, an adaptive mindset and a conscious decision to embrace uncertainty.
Mike has a background in the health industry. He is a qualified Counsellor, a highly skilled communicator and a passionate supporter of amputee charity, Limbs 4 Life. He has recently become an official ambassador of Interplast Australia and New Zealand, and Ossur and currently represents Australia in all abilities Golf. AS A PROFESSIONAL SPEAKER, MIKE HAS BEEN VISITING SCHOOLS & CORPORATE ORGANISATIONS FOR THE PAST DECADE SHARING his story to give others hope in the face of adversity.
And proudest of all, Mike is a proud father, a loving husband and an undeniable dog lover.
MEET BEN
Losing 98% of your eyesight overnight is something that is simply unimaginable for most people, however this was reality for Ben Pettingill at age 16.
Out of nowhere Ben found himself faced with extreme adversity thanks to a rare genetic syndrome, lebers hereditary optic neuropathy, that no one knew was coming. The sudden change was massive and the challenges came thick and fast in all different shapes and sizes. Building resilience, discovering a new perspective and learning the importance of a strong support network were all vital parts of Ben navigating from complete denial about what had happened, to embracing and taking ownership of his new situation.
Ben has spent the last 8 years working with schools and corporate ORGANISATIONS, building resilience around the country. He could also be described as an adrenalin junkie competing in water ski racing, obstacle course races and riding motorbikes. Ben is the living example that the biggest limit in your life is you. Ben also supports causes closest to his heart as the Ambassador of Vision Australia and Ski for Life. BUT HIS PROUDEST ROLE OF ALL IS “DAD”, A title he never thought he would have.