Episode 4

full
Published on:

12th Dec 2024

Mike Morrison: ‘I was waiting for a miracle or death’ Lessons from managing clinical depression while building a business(S1, Ep4)

We’re far more comfortable talking about mental health than we used to be - which is a good thing. But the word ‘depression’ is now often used to describe feeling sad or ‘down’ - which is not the same as clinical depression. 

In this interview, you’ll hear from entrepreneur Mike Morrison on how he’s built a successful business whilst managing clinical depression - including a depressive episode that lasted almost two years and left him unable to work or even get out of bed at times. 


We cover many topics in our discussion including how being ‘working class’ (and how it can impact your aspirations and attitudes to money), being in a job that sucks the life out of you along with relationship breakdowns (business and romantic). *** TW ***  We also, briefly, talk about suicide.  


Mike is a leading authority on building, growing and scaling online membership communities. 


Key Moments

00:10:47 Life at university - expectations vs. reality for Mike and his peers

00:15:41 How a working-class upbringing shaped Mike's money habits and perception

00:29:54 Dropping out of uni, first job experiences in sales and getting promoted

00:38:56 Mike’s overdose at the age 15 - and the impact on his mental health 

00:44:35 Why Mike thought he didn’t need therapy for depression

00:48:59 How Mike manages anxiety and depression

00:54:38 How gaming helped Mike emerge from a two-year depressive episode 


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About the Podcast

Courageous
Honest conversations and smart strategy for building a bold life, brand or business. Hosted by Janet Murray.
Courageous is a podcast for people who want to build boldly - whether that’s a business, a personal brand - or simply a life that feels like their own.

Hosted by marketing strategist and former journalist Janet Murray, this is a show about what it really takes to show up, speak out, and keep going - especially when doing so comes at a cost.

You’ll find episodes on:

- Messaging, marketing and audience growth
- Rebuilding after burnout or cancellation
- Creative courage, values-led work and using your voice (even when it shakes)
- Interviews with creatives, entrepreneurs and leaders who’ve dared to do things differently

If you’re looking for honest insights, strategic thinking, - along with women’s rights, free speech and navigating online culture - you'll love the Courageous podcast.

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About your host

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Janet Murray

I’m Janet Murray - I’m a business strategist and copywriter who helps consultants, coaches, freelancers and small business owners generate consistent income and/or recurring revenue.

I’m also the creator of the Courageous CEO Business Strategy Planner - which contains tried and tested strategy & resources to grow your business.