In the latest instalment of Edge Ahead, Bellew, who held the WBC Cruiserweight title from 2016 to 2017, speaks openly about his personal experience with mental health, joined by his wife Rachael, for a heartfelt conversation.
Speaking during recording, Bellew said: “Mental health is so overlooked these days.
“For students, it’s especially tough, so many changes, living away from home, away from their parents. It’s hard, so we’ve got to talk to each other and be there for one another.
“Everyone is going through something, fighting their own battles or demons. The key is to try your best to enjoy the good moments.”
The University introduced Edge Ahead in September, a welcoming new podcast created to inspire, inform and connect students, staff and the wider community, to provide a space for honest and supportive conversations.
The first series, ‘What’s in Your Head’, focuses on mental health, featuring meaningful discussions with respected guests from the University, elite sport, the media and beyond.
Co-hosted by former Liverpool goalkeeper, Edge Hill honorary doctor and mental health advocate Chris Kirkland, and popular regional podcaster Gareth Roberts, each episode offers valuable insight, guidance and support.
Professor Andy Smith, an expert researcher on the links between sport, education and mental health, said: “The latest episode of Edge Ahead with Tony Bellew is an excellent listen on the importance of our mental health, what we can all learn from times when this is challenged, and the strategies we can adopt to help positively impact our mental health.
“The series ‘What’s in Your Head’ highlights many of the issues which are the subject of the University’s internationally-recognised research in mental health, and how this has benefited the lives of our communities and shaped policy and practice in the area.
“We are extremely grateful to Tony and his wife Rachael for sharing their experiences, and for supporting the University’s longstanding commitment to promoting the mental health of its students, staff and partners.”
The ‘What’s in Your Head’ series will continue to shine a light on mental health, while future series of Edge Ahead will branch out into other topics close to the Edge Hill community – from higher education and student life to current affairs and beyond.
Listeners can look forward to at least one new episode each month, always bringing guests with uplifting stories and expert advice. Episodes are available to stream on Spotify and YouTube. Whether on campus or tuning in from afar, Edge Hill welcomes everyone to join these important conversations.
Edge Hill University is proud to support World Mental Health Day 2025 and offers a dedicated student support service, providing mental health and wellbeing advice, as well as other help and support.
October 7, 2025
