From Struggle to Strength: Jon Manning's Mental Health Journey
Mon Jan 26 2026
Summary
In this podcast episode, David Adderson interviews Jon Manning, the founder and CEO of Arthur Ellis, a charity focused on mental health. Jon shares his personal journey through mental health struggles, including childhood experiences, addiction, and the challenges of navigating the healthcare system. He discusses the founding of Arthur Ellis, the importance of accessible mental health services, and the impact of education on confidence and communication. The conversation highlights the significance of vulnerability, community support, and the role of technology in mental health. Jon's story is one of resilience, personal growth, and a commitment to helping others.
Takeaways
Mental health challenges often begin in childhood.Therapeutic environments need to be more comfortable and accessible.Jon's personal experiences led him to found Arthur Ellis.The NHS faces challenges with long waiting lists for mental health services.Private therapy settings can offer more personalised care.Jon's journey included struggles with alcohol and mental health.Exercise and physical activity played a role in David's recovery.Jon emphasises the importance of vulnerability and openness.Arthur Ellis aims to make mental health support more accessible.Jon's story highlights the need for systemic change in mental health care.Sound bites
"I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD."
"I bought three houses on the telephone auction."
"I want to help as many people as possible."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to John Manning's Journey
02:39 Early Mental Health Struggles
10:06 Transitioning to Adulthood and Independence
19:13 Battling Addiction and Health Crisis
26:45 The Birth of Arthur Ellis
29:32 Building a Business from Passion
34:46 Vulnerability in Public Speaking and Workshops
36:37 The Emotional Toll of Public Speaking
38:03 Creating a Safe Space for Vulnerability
39:02 The Importance of Mental Health Resources
39:39 Navigating Financial Struggles and Impulsivity
42:30 Understanding Bipolar Disorder
47:50 The Changing Landscape of Mental Health Awareness
49:42 The Impact of Technology on Mental Health
54:35 Successes and Failures in Mental Health Advocacy
58:14 The Burden of Being a Supportive Figure
58:59 The Role of AI in Mental Health Support
Keywords
mental health, entrepreneurship, personal growth, addiction, therapy, bipolar disorder, Arthur Ellis, mental health services, vulnerability, technology
More
Summary In this podcast episode, David Adderson interviews Jon Manning, the founder and CEO of Arthur Ellis, a charity focused on mental health. Jon shares his personal journey through mental health struggles, including childhood experiences, addiction, and the challenges of navigating the healthcare system. He discusses the founding of Arthur Ellis, the importance of accessible mental health services, and the impact of education on confidence and communication. The conversation highlights the significance of vulnerability, community support, and the role of technology in mental health. Jon's story is one of resilience, personal growth, and a commitment to helping others. Takeaways Mental health challenges often begin in childhood.Therapeutic environments need to be more comfortable and accessible.Jon's personal experiences led him to found Arthur Ellis.The NHS faces challenges with long waiting lists for mental health services.Private therapy settings can offer more personalised care.Jon's journey included struggles with alcohol and mental health.Exercise and physical activity played a role in David's recovery.Jon emphasises the importance of vulnerability and openness.Arthur Ellis aims to make mental health support more accessible.Jon's story highlights the need for systemic change in mental health care.Sound bites "I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD." "I bought three houses on the telephone auction." "I want to help as many people as possible." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to John Manning's Journey 02:39 Early Mental Health Struggles 10:06 Transitioning to Adulthood and Independence 19:13 Battling Addiction and Health Crisis 26:45 The Birth of Arthur Ellis 29:32 Building a Business from Passion 34:46 Vulnerability in Public Speaking and Workshops 36:37 The Emotional Toll of Public Speaking 38:03 Creating a Safe Space for Vulnerability 39:02 The Importance of Mental Health Resources 39:39 Navigating Financial Struggles and Impulsivity 42:30 Understanding Bipolar Disorder 47:50 The Changing Landscape of Mental Health Awareness 49:42 The Impact of Technology on Mental Health 54:35 Successes and Failures in Mental Health Advocacy 58:14 The Burden of Being a Supportive Figure 58:59 The Role of AI in Mental Health Support Keywords mental health, entrepreneurship, personal growth, addiction, therapy, bipolar disorder, Arthur Ellis, mental health services, vulnerability, technology