On 17th August 2025, Steven Gregson embarked on a remarkable journey — walking from St George’s Square to Castle Hill and back, not once, but seven times. Starting at 6am, he completed the challenge, raising £1,174 for Men Walking and Talking — surpassing his £1,000 target.
I had the privilege of joining Steven on one of these seven trips. It wasn’t just a walk; it was an opportunity to connect, listen, and reflect — the kind of connection that underpins mental well-being.
About Men Walking and Talking
Founded in 2021 by Dan Reid, Men Walking and Talking began with a single walk in Telford. Inspired by his own struggles with anxiety and depression, Dan sought to create a space where men could connect, share, and support each other. What started with one group has now expanded to 44 walks across 21 counties, becoming a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2022 and an organisational member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) in 2023.
The Huddersfield group, led by Steve Gregson, offers weekly walks every Monday at 6:30 pm, starting at the Harold Wilson statue in front of Huddersfield Train Station.
Podcast in Motion: Making Excuses
During the challenge, a podcast episode was recorded live with Julian from the Making Excuses Podcast. The podcast captured conversations, reflections, and stories along the walk, highlighting the importance of talking openly about mental health. This reinforces the ethos of Men Walking and Talking — connecting through shared experiences, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and inspiring others to open up.
Walking and Talking: A Personal Perspective
Walking alongside Steven for one of his seven trips gave me a unique insight into the incredible work being done by Men Walking and Talking. Every step was a reminder that shared conversation, empathy, and presence can be profoundly supportive for mental well being.
We also reflected on the broader challenges faced by mental health charities today. Some organisations are struggling financially, even as demand for mental health support continues to rise. In this context, it is more important than ever for mental health charities and businesses to collaborate, sharing resources, knowledge, and encouragement to support those in need.
This experience reflects the values of As Light As A Feather Counselling. Just as Steven’s walk created a safe space for reflection and connection, my counselling sessions provide an environment where clients can explore their thoughts, share their stories, and feel truly heard. Walking with Steven was a live demonstration of how healing can happen through presence, dialogue, and support — the very principles that underpin person-centred counselling.
The Power of Walking and Talking
What struck me most during the walk was that Steven wasn’t alone. He was accompanied every step of the way, reflecting the ethos of Men Walking and Talking: connection, support, and being present for one another.
This mirrors the core principles of person-centred counselling, the foundation of As Light As A Feather Counselling. In counselling, talking is not just about solving problems — it’s about being heard without judgement, feeling supported, and exploring thoughts and emotions at your own pace. Just as Steven’s walks allow men to open up in a safe, shared space, counselling provides a structured environment where meaningful reflection and personal growth can happen.
“A conversation can be the start of change.” – Unknown
By walking, talking, and even recording a podcast together, people experience the healing power of connection — the very essence of emotional well-being.
🌟 Reflecting on the Milestone
Steven’s challenge was more than a physical milestone; it was a powerful reminder of the importance of support, connection, and community in mental health. It highlights that no one should face their struggles alone, whether on a walk up Castle Hill, in life’s challenges, or through conversation on a podcast.
If you’re in Huddersfield and want to explore how talking can help you process thoughts, reduce anxiety, or simply feel heard, I offer a safe, non-judgemental space at As Light As A Feather Counselling. Just like Men Walking and Talking, counselling is about walking alongside you — supporting you every step of the way.
Men Walking and Talking Huddersfield meet every Monday at 6:30pm starting at the Harold Wilson Statue, St Georges Square. Men Walking and Talking – Huddersfield (Facebook)
To support Men Walking and Talking, visit their official website www.menwalkingandtalking.co.uk
Take Care, Nicole
