Michael Wilson with Rae Bonney - October 2025

What Does It Feel Like, Being Michael Wilson?

The Human Side Of Men's Health Research

The world loves a good stat 📈.

We quote them, post them, argue about them, and use “the research” to support our opinions.

But how often do we stop to ask, where does the data come from? Who are the people behind the research? What drives someone to commit years of their life to a PhD? .... and who supports them along the way?

Back in October 2023, I was joined by Michael Wilson, Research Fellow in Men's Mental Health at Orygen and one of the new generation of men’s health researchers, helping shape what “evidence” really means in the lives of men.

His work explores why some men face higher suicide risk after relationship breakdowns, especially how emotion dysregulation and loneliness can collide in the months post-separation.

We unpacked the why behind Michael’s PhD - the purpose, persistence and curiosity that fuels his work, and how good support is essential in making it all possible.

Then… enter the room (by phone), Michael’s super-supportive supervisor, none other than Dr. Zac Seidler - global men’s health icon, Movember leader, and champion of the next generation of researchers, shared what it takes to nurture rigorous, human-centred research and why great supervision can influence the trajectory of a PhD (and a researcher).

What does it feel like, being you, today?