York St John academic explores media and mental health with rugby legend, Jonny Wilkinson CBE

Senior lecturer in Media and Film Studies Dr Matt Selway is an expert guest on Rugby World Cup winner and former England captain Jonny Wilkinson’s pioneering podcast, I Am. 

With a focus on human potential, wellbeing and creativity, Dr Selway presents his extensive research and expertise during a fascinating interview with the sporting icon.  

The discussion delves into both speakers’ personal experiences with media and mental health. Together, they explore how the media shapes the way we perceive and experience mental health and more.  

Powerfully, Dr Selway presents his optimism as people have the power to define the media space and presents the universal philosophies that reach across audiences to help advance people’s potential. 

Dr Selway said: “This is a very important topic to me, as my research contributes directly to some of York St John’s main directives and ambitions in making a difference to the mental health conversation in our communities. It was an incredible opportunity to explore the topic with Jonny, who has experienced the positives and pressures of the media first-hand. 

“One of the key lessons we try and teach our students is the great deal of autonomy we have as individuals to use media creatively. I am optimistic that there is a lot to be celebrated about our media infrastructure and certainly we all have the potential to benefit from that and be part of benefiting others.” 

Jonny Wilkinson said: “I envy your students, with that reciprocal, mutual offering going on - I think that is a beautiful place to be.” 

Listen to the full interview, I Am...with Matt Selway on Apple podcasts.