In this episode, we are joined by Brian Conley for a revealing conversation centered around his life, career, and personal challenges. Brian shares anecdotes from his time as a stage performer, including cherished moments from his pantomime and musical experiences, as well as his stint on EastEnders. The discussion takes a reflective turn as Brian opens up about overcoming personal struggles, including dyslexia and the emotional aftermath of his father's death, which led to panic attacks and eventually gave up alcohol.Episode Highlights:00:20 - Shed Stories and Memories03:02 - Dealing with Loss and Panic Attacks09:07 - Career Beginnings and Stage School16:02 - EastEnders and Lockdown Opportunities30:01 - The Art of Pantomime35:59 - Balancing Family and Career Pressures38:26 - The Highs and Lows of Performing42:10 - Working with Family in Showbiz45:28 - The Joy of Performing in Musicals48:36 - The PR Pack Tour50:05 - Challenges and Rewards of Comedy01:05:20 - Reflecting on a Successful Career01:07:16 - Concluding Thoughts and Men's HealthFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
In this episode, I speak with historian John about his new book Be a Man, which explores masculinity in England from the Industrial Revolution to today. We discuss themes like fatherhood, work, and youth, as well as how societal expectations of men have evolved. John shares how personal experiences with mental health led him to this work and the role of men’s groups in fostering support. We also touch on modern challenges young men face—social media, pornography, and identity pressure—and end with a thoughtful look at male suicide and the importance of open conversations around mental health.Episode Highlights:00:56 - Assumed emotional connection in today's fatherhood05:26 - Safe space for honest male conversation09:53 - What has contributed to the rise of toxin masculinity12:55 - Men compare bodies, feel inadequate20:32 - Army upbringing influenced early worldview26:09 - Effects of National Service on masculinity28:36 - Challenges Facing Young Men Today32:52 - Football now priced beyond many fans39:06 - Addressing the Issue of Suicide41:10 - The Impact of War on Family Dynamics58:31 - The Importance of Talking and SupportFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
In this episode, therapist and author Alex unpacks how even “normal” childhoods can leave lasting emotional imprints. He shares his personal story of fatherlessness and family mental health struggles, offering a rare, vulnerable look at how early emotional needs shape adult behavior. We explore how men often suppress emotions due to societal pressures and why mentorship and healthy male role models are critical. Alex’s reflections offer a compassionate lens on healing, resilience, and redefining masculinity.Episode Highlights:00:35 - Unmet needs in childhood drive over-functioning in adulthood04:17 - The absence of a male role model left a gap08:26 - Helping others means also doing the work on yourself10:52 - We say we’re ready—but until it costs us comfort, we’re not16:30 - Depression is numbness, not sadness18:21 - We don’t see the world as it is—we see it as we are21:36 - When being right matters more than being close, love doesn’t stand a chance26:39 - Old wounds speak loud when you're under pressure33:29 - What happens when struggle is skipped?38:20 - Having protection changes how the world treats you43:42 - A huge part of the problem is men not talking48:40 - What true therapy needs55:17 - Feeling leads to healing01:01:28 - Generational gap in financial expectations01:04:35 - Parental love can coexist with emotional neglect01:13:44 - We All Inherit Pain. What We Do With It Is Our PowerLearn more about AlexWebsite: https://www.alexhoward.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexhowardtherapy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexhowardtherapyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AlexHowardtvFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
In this episode, we sit down with Drewe, a former professional footballer turned high-performance coach, as he opens up about the challenges of being a man in today's world. Drewe shares a powerful story about his son’s struggle with expressing his emotions, shedding light on the critical importance of validating rather than suppressing feelings. We dive deep into the complexities of modern masculinity, exploring the societal pressures men face, the emotional isolation in professional sports, and the need for authentic leadership in football. Drew also reflects on his personal journey of overcoming addiction and emotional numbness, which shaped his coaching philosophy focused on authenticity and addressing deeper emotional issues. This conversation offers profound insights into the power of emotional health and true connection, both on and off the field.Episode Highlights:01:08 - Validation Over Suppression07:05 - Toxic shame often begins with “you are” statements11:13 - Men need more spaces to be real13:45 - Healing through Return to Authentic Self18:51 - Distinguishing between ego, sabotage, and raw competitive fire23:10 - Why the absence of positive male figures can impact personal development26:56 - Support Systems in Professional Football29:16 - The Business of Football and Its Challenges31:53 - Authenticity in Leadership36:58 - Psychological support is essential in leadership40:38 - Dis-ease stems from misalignment44:08 - The Connection Between Fear and Control49:17 - Political and Cultural Pushback52:22 - Consequences of Inauthenticity54:26 - Authenticity Heals More Than The Body57:29 - Performance Coaching Is About Revelation, Not Instruction59:18 - The magic formula for success and inner peace01:04:40 - 3 Powerful Steps to Transform Your LifeLearn more about DreweWebsite: https://www.sweatandcourage.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweatandcourage/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachfear/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sweatandcourage/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
In this episode, we sit down with two incredible guests, Seth and Mike, for a heartfelt conversation about masculinity, personal journeys, and the power of connection. Seth, a father of three, reflects on how growing up without his father inspired him to be a more present dad. He shares stories from his early career in the music industry, including working with Whitney Houston's fan club, and how those experiences shaped his view of relationships and success. Mike, who grew up in the care system in South London, opens up about the challenges he faced, including navigating violence and a lack of trust. Throughout the episode, Seth and Mike explore themes like kindness, resilience, and the importance of small acts of love—like offering someone a sandwich—which can make a huge difference in someone’s life. Their journey highlights the impact of empathy, mentorship, and the simple yet powerful ways we can show up for each other.Episode Highlights:01:09 - Seth's Journey as a Dad02:42 - Working with Whitney Houston's Fan Club04:39 - Mike's Diverse Background10:07 - The Language of Love13:56 - Experience is Everything18:36 - A Scary Home Invasion20:25 - Why I Couldn’t Trust Anyone Around Me27:22 - Being the Kid Who Saw What Others Didn’t30:07 - The Real ‘Peckham’ of Birmingham33:29 - What Happened to the Days of Open Doors and Free Play?36:59 - Why We Need Real Friendships42:38 - Camaraderie Beyond Race43:58 - When You Know They’ve Got Your Back50:45 - The Unmatched Magic of Live Music55:43 - Rebuilding After the System Let Me Down01:00:22 - The Key to Surviving Parenthood01:05:22 - Why Presence Matters More Than Perfect ParentingFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
"If you died tomorrow, what would you regret?" This powerful question drives our conversation with Deri, who reflects on his father's deathbed regrets and how it shaped his life. Deri shares how his father's reflections on missed opportunities inspired him to live fully and pursue his passions without hesitation. He recounts his harrowing experience on Mount Everest in 2015, where a massive earthquake claimed many lives, reinforcing the fragility of life and the urgency to seize every moment. Discover how Deri's journey reflects the importance of embracing challenges, fostering deep connections with loved ones, channeling energy into passions, and the concept of "flow" in our lives.Episode Highlights:01:55 - Rugby ain’t always civilised03:50 - Growing up in Wales07:41 - Harnessing the Power of Flow10:44 - Lessons from My Father's Deathbed16:14 - The Moment That Changed Everything20:08 - A Moment of Pure Survival24:34 - Being Presumed Dead28:28 - After surviving Everest31:16 - The Most Common Regret35:13 - The Role of Action in Parenting39:53 - Where does mastery begin41:07 - Find Your Path Despite Family Challenges47:43 - Embracing Vulnerability in Parenting51:08 - How I Chose Who I Was53:06 - Taking the Badge Off55:37 - Never Let the “C” word Define You01:00:36 - Your Struggles Leads to StrengthFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
In this episode of Beyond the Shed, we had the pleasure of welcoming Steve, a seasoned entrepreneur and consultant, to discuss a wide range of topics that resonate with men in the 21st century. Our conversation meandered through personal anecdotes, cultural references, and insights into the challenges men face today.Episode Highlights:00:00 - Introduction05:32 - The Evolution of Live Music09:00 - The Role of Music in Life14:40 - Steve's Career Journey20:28 - Craftsmanship in Construction25:07 - The Role of Trust in Business30:34 - AI in Business35:06 - Water Management Innovations40:20 - Homeschooling and School Experiences46:14 - Parenting and Step-Parenting Reflections49:27 - Generational Differences and Childhood Memories01:04:45 - Local Living and Allotments01:10:40 - Positivity and Happiness01:12:55 - Conclusion and FarewellFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
Discover Rod’s vision for a circular economy and the hurdles he faces in making sustainable change a reality. In this episode, Rod opens up about his work with Unwasted, a company that creates eco-friendly products using patented technology, free from harmful chemicals. He shares his frustrations with investors who prioritize profit over meaningful progress and the financial and emotional stress that comes with driving innovation. Rod also discusses the divide between the wealthy and the working class and how we can reshape capitalism to focus on sustainability and collaboration over profit.Episode Highlights:04:05 - The Money Mindset: A Barrier to True Change06:40 - The Deceptive Nature of "Net Zero" Headlines09:02 - Resilience in the Next Generation10:55 - Cultural Shifts in Spending14:36 - The Decline of Practical Education in Favor of University Degrees19:08 - How "Never Waste" Is Changing the Future20:41 - Profit Targets vs. Purpose22:18 - Involvement with Luton Town25:33 - Resilience in Sports28:30 - Building a Pilot Plant Against All Odds34:23 - Vested Interests in Industry38:18 - Collaboration for Change44:43 - A Father's InfluenceFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
What does it mean to truly be healthy? Join us as we redefine health beyond just the absence of disease! John kicks off by sharing his eventful night at a white-collar boxing match, leading to a humorous discussion on alcohol, intermittent fasting, and unintended health choices. We dive into the artistry of boxing, the physical demands of the sport, and the serious risks of brain injuries in contact sports. Wrapping up, we challenge conventional views on health, emphasizing vitality, self-care, and the importance of listening to our bodies before issues become urgent.Episode Highlights:03:16 - Boxing as fitness and art04:48 - Brain injuries in sports06:56 - Defining health and vitality10:25 - Sleep habits and bedroom environment14:18 - Codependency and people-pleasing18:10 - Health as more than absence of disease20:57 - Men's attitudes towards health23:39 - Making time for exercise and self-care28:51 - The importance of alone time30:32 - Benefits of strength training as you age33:18 - Challenging yourself and avoiding fixed mindsets35:23 - Information overload and focusing on the present36:02 - Taking control of your health37:33 - Natural remedies and holistic health approachesFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
Are you curious about the principles that can unlock your potential? In this episode, Jamie Smart shares how understanding mind, consciousness, and thought can lead to a deeper connection with yourself. Jamie shares profound insights on how our well-being is innate, and our feelings are simply reflections of our thinking. He emphasizes that true clarity comes not from acquiring more knowledge, but from shedding misconceptions that obscure our perception of reality. Through relatable stories and a conversation about Syd Banks' teachings, Jamie highlights how these principles offer a new paradigm in psychology—one that reminds us we are not broken and do not need fixing. Episode Highlights: 00:47 - A Chance Encounter 05:24 - A Life-Changing Realization 14:05 - The Power of Belief vs. Knowing 16:12 - Jamie’s Journey to Discovering the Principles 19:09 - The Shift from External to Internal 21:04 - The Concept of Subtractive Psychology 24:03 - Understanding the Principles 25:21 - Syd Banks' Enlightenment 31:54 - Making the Invisible Visible 34:40 - Emotional Intelligence and Perception 38:52 - The Nature of Insights 41:26 - Overthinking and Its Implications 47:39 - The Importance of Connection 54:36 - Finding Purpose and Meaning 58:01 - Final Thoughts and Reflections Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
Catch this heartfelt episode where John and Marcus explore patience and the true value of time. John opens up about a recent adventure picking up his daughter from university—a journey filled with van rental hiccups and unexpected lessons in staying calm under pressure. Their conversation flows through life’s twists and turns, touching on relationships, the power of perspective, and how our mindset shapes the way we experience the world. They also dive into the importance of human connection and the bittersweet reflections that often come with growing older. Episode Highlights: 00:09 - Patience and van rental challenges 03:26 - Near misses and fate 05:17 - Making the most of unexpected free time 06:15 - Purpose and meaning in life 07:52 - Time spent on social media 09:25 - Transitions in Parenting 11:46 - Regrets and relationships 14:45 - Email overload and productivity 16:55 - How to spend time without work 19:04 - Money mindset and values 24:32 - Car stories and ego 28:22 - Nostalgia for simpler times 30:33 - Importance of father-son relationships 32:25 - Appreciating working-class values 33:11 - Finding contentment in simple pleasuresFollow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
In this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Charly, an experienced entrepreneur and tech expert, to explore the inspirations that drive his success. He shares a heartfelt story from his childhood, where crafting wood projects with his grandfather sparked his entrepreneurial journey. Charly also reveals the five key principles for success and how aligning them can lead to a fulfilling, profitable business path. Episode Highlights: 01:17 - Early Crafting Experiences with Grandpa 03:49 - The Importance of Mentorship 08:12 - Transitioning to Technology 11:40 - Overcoming the Undervaluing Trap in Entrepreneurship 19:41 - The Five Ps of Business Success 23:27 - Navigating Co-Parenting Challenges 26:17 - The Importance of Role Modeling for Children 28:45 - Sharing Personal Stories with Kids 32:24 - Finding Purpose Beyond Material Success 37:48 - Never Burn Bridges 41:46 - You Become Your Closest Five 47:50 - The loneliest place you can be 51:28 - A Peaceful Goodbye from a Great Mentor Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
Join us as we sit down with Neil Smith, founder of the men's mental fitness app METTLE, to discuss the importance of mental health among men. This insightful conversation explores a range of topics, from football and family dynamics to Neil’s personal journey and professional accomplishments. We dive deep into how men can improve their mental well-being, touching on subjects like meditation, breathwork, and more. Neil sheds light on the inspiration behind METTLE, providing valuable insights on breaking the taboos surrounding men's mental health and fostering a culture of support and self-care. Episode Highlights: 01:25 - The Impact of Football on Father-Son Relationships 09:18 - Musical Influences and Childhood Memories 13:36 - Forming a Band and Teenage Years 18:30 - From Music to TV 27:22 - Creating Purpose-Driven Content 31:42 - Breaking Stereotypes with Disabled Models 33:00 - Adam Pearson's Inspiring Journey 38:28 - Pushing Boundaries in TV Programming 41:24 - Midlife Crisis and Existential Boredom 44:49 - The Power of Meditation and Hypnosis 54:55 - Addressing the Male Mental Health Crisis 56:59 - Creating a Toolkit for Men's Mental Health 58:39 - Challenges and Support for Mettle 01:05:12 - Reframing Mental Health as Mental Fitness 01:07:59 - The Importance of Consistency and Gamification 01:09:42 - Breathwork: A Powerful Tool for Mental Fitness 01:18:31 - The Role of Technology in Men's Mental Health Find out more about Mettle https://bemettle.com/ Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
Join us as we explore the importance of open conversations among men, addressing topics such as mental health, relationships, and societal expectations. Learn about the changing landscape of masculinity, the impact of violence in society, the significance of role models and mentors, and how societal pressures can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Discover ways to navigate these challenging topics to empower men to embrace their strength, share their stories, and foster a sense of community. Episode Highlights: 00:37 - Defining Masculinity in the 21st Century 02:23 - The Challenge of Authentic Communication 04:23 - Changing Nature of Conflict 06:49 - Exploring Violence and Its Roots 09:39 - The Need for Role Models 10:38 - Empowering Men Through Stories 13:04 - The Value of Money and Worth 15:55 - The Evolution of Information and the Role of AI in Future Work 18:44 - The Security of Jobs and Financial Stability 23:24 - Comparing Generations and Simplicity 28:07 - Addressing Feelings of Inadequacy 30:15 - Numbing Mechanisms in Society 33:21 - The Need for Holistic Health Approaches Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
Join Jake as he takes us behind the scenes of his upcoming film, Lightning Flowers, a compelling coming-of-age story about resilience and survival. In this episode, Jake delves into the inspiration behind the film, his creative journey, and the challenges he faced during production. The conversation also explores the significance of father-son relationships, the impact of upbringing on personal development, and the shifting perceptions of masculinity in today's world. Episode Highlights: 00:50 - Details about "Lightning Flowers" documentary 09:59 - Differences in personality between couples 12:26 - Best man speech experiences 19:39 - Taking feedback and improving work 22:26 - Importance of men's social clubs 25:40 - Experiences with prejudice growing up 28:51 - Changing views on masculinity 32:31 - Working Class Upbringing and Work Ethic 37:12 - Character and Resilience in Children's Future 45:52 - Cold Water Therapy and Health Benefits 48:49 - Importance of Consistent Exercise 57:38 - Working on Multiple Film Projects 01:00:43 - Near-Death Experiences and Spirituality Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569194087083
Send us a textIn this episode, Piers Ravenhill shares his powerful story of transformation, detailing his rise to prominence as a drug dealer and the two lengthy prison sentences that followed, totaling over 17 years. Piers reflects on the choices that brought him down this path, the challenges he faced in prison, and the moments of clarity that emerged during his arrests. He discusses the profound impact of his actions on his family, especially his daughter, whose love and support have inspi...
Send us a textIn this episode, Cliff and John reflect on their 37-year friendship, discussing how trust, loyalty, and emotional openness have strengthened their bond through life's ups and downs. They explore the significance of male friendships, particularly in the context of today's challenges for younger generations who often lack positive male role models. Reflecting on their upbringing in the 60s and 70s, they compare it with the experiences of today's youth, who face fewer freedoms and ...
Send us a textJoin us in this episode with Tom Chapman, founder of the Lions Barber Collective, who shares his story from hairdresser to mental health advocate. Tom reflects on how cutting hair allows him to stay present and mindful while challenging stereotypes about hairdressing as a career. He recounts the heartbreaking loss of his friend to suicide, which motivated him to create the Lions Barber Collective, a global initiative turning barbershops into safe spaces for men to discuss mental...
Send us a textWelcome to the first episode with hosts Marcus and John. Today, they finally bring their long-discussed idea to life, aiming to create a safe space for men to share their feelings and experiences, break down the barriers of toxic masculinity, and encourage open dialogue. In this episode, they reflect on their own backgrounds, the values instilled in them from a young age, and how these values have shaped their perspectives on money, success, and happiness. They discuss the press...