The Secret Life of Dads Podcast

We are joined by Dr Anna Machin - evolutionary anthropologist, author and one of the leading voices on modern fatherhood. Anna’s work explores the biology, anthropology and emotional realities of being a dad, and how men’s brains, hormones and identities change when they become fathers. We often call her the godmother of dads - because few people have done more to understand, advocate for and humanise the role of fathers in the modern world. Anna is currently writing her next book on fatherhood, and in this conversation we explore what science and evolution can teach us about the essential role of dads today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Peloton star coach Ben Aldis has built a career on strength, discipline and momentum. But becoming a dad has asked something very different of him. In this conversation, Ben reflects on the man he became through his relationship with his own father, and the man he is becoming now he’s a dad himself. We talk identity, pressure, purpose - and how fatherhood reshapes what “strong” really means. It’s a story about legacy. About choosing the kind of man your children get to grow up with. And about learning that the hardest work often begins when the training ends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.⁣ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr Megan Rossi - also known as The Gut Health Doctor - is a leading gut health expert, award-winning scientist and mum of two. She founded The Gut Health Doctor platform to make cutting-edge science accessible and practical for everyday families. As a Research Fellow at King’s College London, she investigates nutrition-based therapies, including prebiotics, probiotics and plant-based diversity. She also leads The Gut Health Clinic, offering personalised support for digestive and overall health. Dr Rossi is the author of Sunday Times bestsellers Eat Yourself Healthy and Eat More, Live Well, and co-founder of Bio&Me, a gut-friendly food brand. Her mission is to help people - from busy dads to picky toddlers - transform their health from the inside out, one gut-loving meal at a time.​ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jamie Clements of The Breath Space joins Mat and Lawrence for a real, no-fluff conversation about breathwork — not as some mystical fix, but as a simple, science-backed tool to handle the mental weight that builds up in modern life. Fatherhood’s full on. Your mind’s racing, your patience is thin and your nervous system’s shot. In this episode, we explore how breathwork can pull you out of the noise and back into your body — with real talk, practical tools and a bit of a laugh along the way. We dive into how the breath can help shift your emotional state, reduce anxiety and low moods and reconnect you to yourself — especially when fatherhood, work and the pressure to “hold it all together” gets heavy. Because the way you breathe might just be the way back to feeling like yourself again... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After becoming a mother, no one asked Helen Glover if she’d return to elite sport. It wasn’t a question - it was an assumption. That silence lit a fire. In this honest and inspiring conversation, Olympic champion Helen Glover OBE reflects on the quiet power of holding on to your dreams, even when the world moves on. She shares how motherhood challenged her identity, fuelled her comeback and helped her discover a new kind of strength. Because parenthood isn’t the end of your ambition - it can be the beginning of something even greater. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Lawrence and Mat as they sit down with Hugh Wahla to hear his incredible life story — from growing up amidst childhood trauma and challenges, to rising through the ranks of global fashion and design brands as CEO. Hugh shares how hitting burnout led him to step away, rebuild and find a new path focused on health, balance and meaning — including cold water swimming, breathwork and rethinking success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jacob Mitchell, the award-winning teacher turned MC Grammar, joins Lawrence and Mat to share the real story behind his journey — from leaving school with just one GCSE to becoming a global sensation blending hip-hop and education. Discover how his viral raps like The Gruffalo sparked a mission to make learning engaging, accessible and fun for kids everywhere. 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Saracens scrum-half and former Springbok international Ivan van Zyl, alongside senior academy coach James Tirrell, are not just leaders in elite sport - they’re also dads. In this special episode of Fatherhood in Elite Sport, Mat and Lawrence dive into the balancing act of high-performance sport and fatherhood. How do they maintain elite-level focus under intense pressure while being present for their families? What lessons can we pass on to kids aspiring to reach the top? From mindset to sacrifices, they share invaluable insights from the frontline of professional sport and parenting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by NordVPN - go to www.nordvpn.com/slod to receive your special offer with 4 months free Mat and Lawrence sit down with Zoe Blaskey, founder of Motherkind, to explore the evolving dynamics of modern parenthood. We delve into the psychological shifts that come with raising children, the shared challenges faced by both mothers and fathers in the unique modern era and strategies to foster resilience and confidence in our parenting journeys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 2007, while on tour in Afghanistan, Mark Ormrod triggered an IED, resulting in the loss of both legs and his right arm. But his story is about far more than what he lost - it's about resilience, mindset and redefining possibility. In this episode, Mark shares his hard-earned lessons, the philosophies that shaped his journey and his personal approach to fatherhood as a dad of three. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gemma is a twice published author - 'The Self Care Cookbook' and 'The Healing Cookbook' - as well as a regular on our TV screens sharing her plant based recipes on This Morning. In this episode she talks to Mat and Lawrence about her journey from raver to wellness warrior, the trials and tribulations of parenting...and how the food we eat can boost our mood and elevate our daily routines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lauren Seager-Smith is the Chief Executive of For Baby's Sake Trust, a charity who's work seeks to empower parents to break the cycle of domestic abuse, to transform the life-chances of whole families and move forward in positive change, starting with the baby. Mat and Lawrence explore this new approach that seeks to break generational cycles and create a bright new future for upcoming generations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by NordVPN - go to www.nordvpn.com/slod to receive your special offer with 4 months free Children and teens have some of the poorest diets, with over 65% of their food intake coming from ultra-processed foods—impacting both body and brain development. With peer influence, social media, and ever-busier lives, access to quick, nutritious meals at home can be a challenge. Rob Hobson, author of 'Unprocess Your Family Life', joins Mat and Lawrence to share how families can come together over wholesome, delicious meals while navigating the world of UPFs. He offers practical tips for instilling lifelong healthy eating habits in kids—without sacrificing taste or fun at the table! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by NordVPN - go to www.nordvpn.com/slod to receive your special offer with 4 months free We discuss penis strengthening exercises...well, sort of - in fact this episode is riddled with essential information for all dads to know...not just about the role of the pelvic floor in female anatomy but in mens too! Clare Bourne, physiotherapist, shares her vast knowledge on the topic...but of course Mat and Lawrence share some giggles along the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cami Vidal chats with Lawrence and Mat to explore the new era of 'mindful drinking' - rethinking alcohol through moderation, intention and self awareness. From the rise of alcohol free alternatives to balancing parenthood, navigating peer pressure and questioning cultural norms, we ask: Is your relationship with alcohol serving you? If full sobriety isn't the answer, how much is the right amount? Maybe mindful drinking is the path to a healthier, more intentional life... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

5 x Great British Judo champion Bobby Rich talks to Mat & Lawrence about the discipline of sport, lessons learnt in defeat, overcoming competition anxiety...training Jason Statham, Guy Richie & David Beckham. Plus so many great nuggets of advice for parents looking to introduce their kids to competitive sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Multiple fitness cover model Alex Crockford has been famous for his physique for nearly a decade, but in this episode he talks about the deep rooted spiritual beliefs that have guided him on this journey. This is the first time Alex has publicly spoken so openly on this topic... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Becoming a dad unexpectedly leads to a host of sudden life changes...the psychological and emotional shifts that follow can be challenging to navigate. Psychologist Jo Carlile talks it all through with Mat and Lawrence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The episode is supported by NordVPN - To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan  - go to https://nordvpn.com/secretlife and you will get 4 extra months on the 2-year plan. Plus there's no risk with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee Our children will often learn by the example we set and not just the words we speak, when it comes to fitness and health what kind of example should we be setting? Fitness is a powerful tool for parents to utilise as we manage our own energy & wellbeing, paving the way for a healthier next generation in the process. Who best to discuss the positive impact of fitness on family life than Mr 'Positive Mental Attitude' himself, Faisal Abdalla. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The episode is supported by NordVPN - To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan  - go to https://nordvpn.com/secretlife and you will get 4 extra months on the 2-year plan. Plus there's no risk with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee If you are the parent of a toddler or preschooler, chances are you know a thing or two about tantrums. While those epic meltdowns can certainly be part of “normal” toddler behaviour, they are still maddening, stressful, and exhausting—for everyone involved. What can you do to keep your cool and help your child calm down? Rebecca Schrag Hershberg, child psychologist and mother of two, has a unique understanding of both the science behind tantrums and what works in the heat of the moment to nip blowups in the bud. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What were your favourite children's TV programmes growing up? How has this landscape changed for our kids today? What goes into making the best children's TV here in the UK? Is YouTube threatening this industry and detracting from our children's development during those most informative years? Our guest Corin has all the answers! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating the changing landscape of sexual desire, intimacy and connection once we become parents can be challenging - Kate Moyle is a psychosexual therapist who is here to discuss it all, no topic is off the table in this forthright conversation with Mat and Lawrence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The UK’s statutory paternity leave is bad. Really bad. In fact, it’s the worst in Europe. Dads and other co-parents get only two weeks off, paid at less than £185 a week. There’s now loads of evidence that this is bad for everyone: mums, dads, kids, and society as a whole. In to explain more is Alex from The Dad Shift campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're looking for more intimacy, great communication and healthier conflict in your relationship instead of the toxic roundabouts that so many couples get stuck on...then this conversation with Lisa is for you! Mat and Lawrence discuss the scenarios that regularly pop up...along with the tools to better navigate the many twists and turns of being in a relationship as a parent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joseph Kibler, born HIV positive & disabled is soon to become a father...his partner and child will not carry HIV. But how? In this remarkable episode Mat and Lawrence speak to Joseph whose Reel, that's received over 12 million views, caught their eye. What conversations can we have with our children regarding disabilities? Is it better or worse to say nothing at all? There's no filter with children. How do we encourage kindness and curiosity without telling our children to simply be quiet? Joseph dives into this in a beautiful way preparing parents for all types of conversations they'll have with their children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why are the true stats about men hidden from us? Why is it so controversial to speak openly about stats that portray men as either heroes or victims? Why is media rhetoric such one way traffic in condemning men and how damaging is this misrepresentation to ALL genders in both the short and long term? Why are so many important topics needlessly genderized causing damaging polarisation? Exploring the 'unpopular other half of gender equality and mens mental health' is the mission of The Tin Men...welcome to this perspective shifting conversation with founder George. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neil Smith gave up a successful job as a TV executive to found the men's mental health app Mettle, along with Bear Grylls and Dr Alex George...but why did he give it all up for this & why is men's mental health so crucially important right now? Join Mat & Lawrence as they explore Neil's story... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Approaching conversations around sex with our partners can be challenging...especially once we become parents and things get more complicated. How can we better explore and communicate our desires to our partners? What role can porn play in intimacy? Has mens self pleasure shifted away from shame into a new era of self love? Here to unpack all of this is David Chambers, a mens intimacy coach who has seen it all before... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the brand new Channel 4 show, British explorer Lucy Shepherd and an indigenous team embark on an unprecedented Amazon expedition, crossing virgin jungle territory while facing extreme danger at every turn. In this episode of SLOD, Lucy shares what it was really like...and how bringing a sense of adventure into our children's lives is so key for their development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Something Mat & Lawrence regret is not knowing more about the Menopause as teenagers watching their mothers navigate this chapter of life. Not wanting to be in the same position again for their partners, they invite Menopause expert Kate Rowe-Ham onto the show to get educated on all things Menopause. We think the more we understand about what our partners are going through...the better we can support them.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices