With R U OK? Day approaching, our partners at Cuppa are putting conversation into action through their latest Cuppa for a Cause.💛
In this episode, Barry Du Bois sits down with R U OK? CEO Lachlan Searle to explore why we shouldn’t wait until someone is in crisis to check in, and how something as simple as asking “Are you OK?” can open the door to a meaningful conversation.
They share personal stories and reflect on the role we can all play in looking out for the people around us, from noticing when something doesn’t feel right to listening, staying connected and checking in again.
The conversation also looks at the role of workplaces and leaders in creating cultures where people feel comfortable speaking up, reinforcing that connection and care should extend well beyond R U OK? Day.
As part of Cuppa for a Cause, Cuppa has donated $2,500 to R U OK? through the Jill’s Gift fund, turning the conversation into tangible support for the organisation and its work across Australia.
It’s a simple reminder that you don’t need to have all the answers to make a difference. Sometimes, giving someone your time, attention and a genuine conversation is a powerful place to start.
Watch the conversation and discover how a simple question can create a lasting ripple effect.
The Conversation
At its heart, this conversation is about something incredibly simple: looking out for the people in our world.
Barry Du Bois and R U OK? CEO Lachlan Searle share personal experiences that bring this message to life. Lachlan reflects on experiencing profound grief after the sudden death of his wife and the friends who continued to show up and check in during an incredibly difficult time.
Barry also shares an experience from an R U OK? Conversation Convoy in Dubbo, where a simple conversation, a sausage sandwich and someone taking the time to listen created a moment of genuine human connection for a person who was struggling.
Their stories are a reminder that meaningful connection doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s a phone call, a coffee, a cuppa or simply taking the time to ask, “Are you OK?”