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A simple code to start the chat. Because sometimes all a bloke needs is eight minutes and a mate who

Got 8 M8? isn’t a campaign — it’s a code between mates.

Inspired after watching leadership author Simon Sinek share how just eight minutes of genuine conversation can change how we feel, Beyond The Banter turned that idea into something real.

It’s a reminder to check in, switch off, and give a mate your time — not your advice.

There’s no script, no pressure, and no perfect words. Just real connection that could change someone’s day.

Whether it’s at work, after training, or over a coffee — eight minutes can make the difference.

Ask it. Give it. Mean it.

Because mateship isn’t just banter — it’s being there when it counts.

PRESS RELEASE: CLICK HERE

Blake Russell - Let the boys play

Blakes Donations

Blake Russell from Let The Boys Play and www.dandbcreative.com.au is jumping into SuperCoach – Draft Edition 🏉

He’s doing it to raise funds and fly the flag for men’s mental health — helping us push back against the stigma that still hangs around.

Let’s get behind Blake and show some proper support.

If you can, throw a few dollars towards Beyond The Banter for the 2026 NRL season.

Every bit helps, legends 💙

Total donations are $72.00 with a Goal of $1000 - We will be updating this weekly.

All you have to do is click on Blakes melon in the picture or by clicking on:

https://square.link/u/h14Bz8nD

What We're About

Beyond the Banter is a space where blokes can drop the tough guy act and talk real.

Through honest chats on the podcast and in our community, we tackle the stuff most of us keep bottled up—work, relationships, health, grief, and all the day-to-day ups and downs.

We reckon that by sharing our own stories, we help other fellas feel less alone and more likely to speak up too. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about showing up, having a yarn, and looking out for each other.

Less stigma. More support. One convo at a time.

Because sometimes the best support starts with a bit of banter.

How We Go About It

We’re just two best mates having the chats most blokes usually dodge. No white coats, no jargon. Just raw, real conversations about life, pressure, grief, wins and everything in between.

That’s why we built the P.A.C.T. — a simple promise to show up, check in and have each other’s backs. And when words are hard, we’ve got a tool to make it easier: "Got 8 M8?".

It’s a text you can send when you need support, or when you’re checking in on a mate. Three words that cut through the awkwardness and open the door to something as simple as an 8-minute chat. Because giving a mate eight minutes of your time can be enough to change the weight they’re carrying.

We don’t pretend to have all the answers. But we do ask the ones that matter:

What are the red flags?
How do you make sure your mates know you’re there?
Where can you turn when things feel too heavy?

Sometimes it’s us sharing our own stories. Sometimes we’ll bring in the experts. Always, it’s about making space for honest yarns that remind blokes they’re not alone.

This isn’t therapy. It’s connection. It’s community. The P.A.C.T. is the promise, and Got 8 M8 is the text that puts it into action.

Come along for the ride. We’re better when we go Beyond The Banter, together.

GOT 8 M8?

A simple code to start the chat. Because sometimes all a bloke needs is eight minutes and a mate who