Claim OwnershipThe Secret Life of Dads Podcast
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Mathew and Lawrence discuss all things fatherhood whilst having some lols and learning valuable lessons along the way. With a wide range of awesome guests, this is not just a podcast for dads...mums alike will enjoy a rare insight into the psyche of ’the dad’ as they navigate the beautifully challenging but rewarding journey of parenthood
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What if adventure didn’t disappear when you became a parent… it just changed shape?
In this episode, Lawrence and Mat sit down with world-renowned author and performance scientist Alex Hutchinson to explore how curiosity, motivation and endurance really work - not just in athletes, but in everyday life as parents.
Alex’s work shows us that growth isn’t only about physical limits or epic expeditions. It’s about how the mind and body work together to keep us engaged with life, even in the small, ordinary moments.
We talk about:
Why curiosity is a survival skill for modern parents
How endurance is as mental as it is physical
Reframing “adventure” for the school run years
Staying motivated when life feels repetitive
Raising kids who are explorers - by becoming one ourselves
This is a conversation about becoming better dads by staying awake to life. Not escaping it.
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When kids arrive, the relationship doesn’t disappear - it just gets pushed to the edges of life.
Between sleepless nights, work stress, logistics and constant responsibility… it can feel like there’s no space left for “us”.
In this episode, Lawrence and Mat sit down with therapist and author Eli Weinstein, to explore what really happens to a relationship in the parenting years - and how couples can stay connected through it.
We talk about:
The identity shift from partners to co-parents
Why resentment quietly builds (and how to spot it early)
Communication when both people feel stretched and exhausted
Intimacy, teamwork, and emotional connection after kids
Practical tools to strengthen your relationship without adding pressure or guilt
This conversation is honest, compassionate, and deeply real - especially for parents who still want to be great partners, not just great caregivers.
If you’re in the thick of the parenting years, this one’s for you.
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What if most of what you’ve been told about kids’ nutrition… doesn’t apply to sporty kids? This week we sit down with Performance Canteen - the team who fuel young athletes across academies, clubs and schools - to unpack the myths parents keep seeing online. Is sugar really the enemy? Do overeating rules change when your kid trains for sport? And what are the real risks of under-fueling active teens? If you’re raising a sporty child, this is the conversation you’ve been waiting for.
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Lawrence and Mat sit down with ex England rugby captain Chris Robshaw and professional singer Camilla Kerslake for an honest conversation about performing at the highest level in both the sport and entertainment industries, Chris’s vulnerable adventure on Strictly Come Dancing and how the couple navigate parenting whilst juggling demanding careers. It’s a grounded, insightful and fun look at resilience, identity and keeping your family steady when life gets loud.
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On the eve of England competing in the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final, we sit down with former England star and TV pundit Ugo Monye to explore the unstoppable rise of women’s rugby — a sport now packing out stadiums and inspiring the next generation.
We discuss how over £6 billion of National Lottery funding into grassroots sport has helped pave the way for this moment and Ugo shares his own rugby journey from the pitch to punditry.
As dads, we also talk about the role fathers play in shaping opportunities for our children — especially our daughters — to thrive in sport and beyond.
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Jake's career has spanned over a decade in the public eye, from football to singing, reality TV to presenting, acting and musical theatre...he has never been afraid to try something new. Mat and Lawrence explore his willingness to be vulnerable in the name of growth and how this shapes his 'action led' approach to fatherhood - stemming from the impact his late father had on him growing up. This episode is as emotional as it is inspiring - we hope you take a lot from it, we certainly did.
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Ryan chats to Mat & Lawrence about male fertility and where he is currently at with his family goals, the life changing experience of the Marathon Des Sables on both body & mind...plus how finding other men who are prepared to open up & go deep is now a priority in his life.
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The most successful female British swimmer in Olympic history, Rebecca Adlington joins Lawrence and Mat for a powerful conversation that spans grit, gold and growing up. From early days training in Mansfield, through navigating family challenges, to double Olympic gold in Beijing 2008 and multiple World and Commonwealth medals, Rebecca shares the mindset behind her success. She also opens up about the quiet role her father played, the identity shift after elite sport, and her evolution into motherhood. Having felt the physical toll of the sport, Rebecca was ready to step away on her own terms — embracing the next chapter with purpose as a parent and businesswoman.
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Mat and Lawrence chat with Charlie Launder, founder of Bumps & Burpees, about how dads can support their partner’s fitness and recovery during and after pregnancy.
Charlie shares what’s really going on in a woman’s body post-birth, why movement is about more than “bouncing back,” and how men can offer support that builds strength, confidence and connection.
A must-listen for any dad who wants to show up better - not just at home, but as part of a stronger team.
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Comedian and cultural commentator Russell Kane joins Lawrence and Mat for a raw & frank conversation on modern fatherhood - covering intimacy after having a baby, the male fertility crisis, staying young through biohacking and fitness, baby sleep hacks that actually work...and the pressures of modern masculinity faced by dads. A mixture of comedy, common sense...and wisdom.
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In this episode, Lawrence and Mat sit down with Lucy Upton, founder of The Children’s Dietitian, for an honest conversation about the often stressful realities of feeding kids. A leading paediatric dietitian and feeding therapist with over a decade of NHS and private sector experience, Lucy has supported thousands of families through challenges ranging from fussy eating and allergies to feeding difficulties linked to neurodivergence and medical conditions. Together, we unpack the daily struggle of getting children to the table, the impact of language and tone around food and how common parent-child dynamics can unintentionally fuel anxiety or resistance. With warmth and clarity, Lucy shares the evidence-based strategies she uses to help families build confidence, reduce mealtime stress and nurture a lifelong positive relationship with food.
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This week, Lawrence and Mat sit down with Esther Marshall - founder of Sophie Says and passionate advocate for emotional wellbeing, inclusion and breaking down childhood stereotypes.
From the spark that led her to write her first book, to how grief and motherhood shaped her mission, Esther shares a powerful, personal journey that turned into a movement helping kids believe, feel and grow.
For 15% off Sophie Says books use this link: https://www.sophiesaysofficial.com/discount/SLOD15
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From West Ham to fatherhood - Anton Ferdinand sits down with Lawrence and Mat to reflect on the highs and lows of his football career, the powerful influence of his own dad and the evolving lessons he's learning as a father today. A conversation about identity, legacy and what it really means to show up as a man.
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In this heartfelt episode, Mat and Lawrence sit down with Dr. Julie Smith to explore the evolving landscape of fatherhood. They discuss the power of vulnerability in parenting, the challenges of balancing ambition with family life, and the importance of self-compassion and choosing 'healthy comparison'. Dr. Julie shares insights from her own experiences as a mother and psychologist, offering practical advice for dads striving to be present and emotionally attuned. Whether you're a new father or navigating the complexities of parenthood, this conversation provides valuable perspectives on embracing imperfection and fostering deeper connections with your children.
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In this episode, Mat and Lawrence sit down with journalist Sam Parker, author of the upcoming book Good Anger, to explore the hidden ways suppressed rage can manifest as anxiety, depression and chronic health issues. Together, they unpack why ignoring our anger is often more harmful than feeling it - and how learning to channel anger productively can lead to personal growth, stronger relationships and a healthier, more authentic life.
This week’s episode includes a paid advertisement for Better Help. You can get your exclusive discount as Secret Life Of Dads listener by using the link https://www.betterhelp.com/slod to start your therapy journey and become your best self.
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Lawrence and Mat sit down with renowned clinical psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Wendy Mogel to delve into the pivotal role dads play in guiding their children from childhood through adolescence. Drawing from her extensive experience and insights from her acclaimed books, including The Blessing of a Skinned Knee, The Blessing of a B Minus and Voice Lessons for Parents/Parent Talk, Dr. Mogel discusses how fathers can foster resilience, self-reliance and open communication in their children.
We explore practical strategies for dads to support their children's growth, navigate the challenges of adolescence and build strong, enduring relationships. Whether you're a new dad or navigating the teenage years, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on fatherhood and family dynamics.
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Lawrence and Mat sit down with Nik Payne - father of four, widower and the heart of the Sundance-winning documentary A New Kind of Wilderness.
They talk about raising kids in the Norwegian wilderness, life after the loss of his wife Maria and what it really means to hold onto your values as a man and father when life takes you far off the map - emotionally, physically and spiritually.
It’s a raw, honest conversation about resilience, grief and intentional parenting in a world that doesn’t always make space for it.
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Brand builder. Rule breaker. Dad - Peter Williams founded Jack Wills at 23 and turned it into an iconic British style brand. Now he’s back with Aubin — and some serious wisdom on business, identity and raising kids whilst raising brands.
Mat and Lawrence dig into the highs, the lessons and what it really takes to build something that lasts - in work and in life.
This episode contains a paid advertisement by Better Help. Try convenient and affordable online therapy by going to www.betterhelp.com/slod to get on your way to being your best self and get 10% off your first month
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Mat and Lawrence sit down with Dr. Joshua Wolrich - NHS doctor, nutritionist and author of Food Isn't Medicine - to discuss how dads can foster a healthier, more relaxed relationship with food. They explore the pitfalls of diet culture, the benefits of weight-neutral health and how to model positive eating habits for the whole family. Tune in for practical insights and a fresh perspective on nutrition that challenges the status quo.
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Raised in a family that ran a McDonald’s franchise, Dr. James Morehen now fuels some of the world’s toughest athletes as Lead Performance Nutritionist for England Rugby. In this episode, we dive into his fascinating journey from fast food to elite sport and the philosophies that guide his approach to food, family, and performance. Listen for...
His take on parenting and food in a world of ultra-processed choices.
The mindset shift everyday parents can learn from elite athletes.
Performance nutrition tips that actually make a difference — even if you’re not a pro.
This one’s for anyone trying to raise strong, healthy humans… or just eat like one.
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*The Secret Life of Dads Podcast* offers an honest and relatable look into the lives of fathers, exploring the joys, challenges, and complexities of fatherhood. Hosted by dads themselves, the podcast covers a range of topics including parenting struggles, family dynamics, and personal stories, all with humor and heart. It provides a supportive and open space for fathers to share experiences, discuss issues often overlooked in traditional parenting discussions, and connect with others navigating similar journeys. It's a must-listen for dads looking for insight, advice, and camaraderie. https://chinesefoodmenuu.com/can-dogs-eat-chinese-food/