You Know What I Mean ? Podcast

Lee Renner is the founder of Pilgrim, but his journey started long before launching his own brand. A footwear designer by trade, Lee built his early career working with iconic names like Umbro and retailers such as JJB, gaining invaluable experience and insight into the industry that would later help shape his own business journey.In this episode, Lee takes us back to those early days, sharing the lessons, challenges, and opportunities that influenced his path from designer to founder. We dive into the highs and lows of building a brand, the reality of taking risks, and what it takes to keep moving forward when things don't go to plan.Lee also opens up about one of the toughest challenges of his life—his cancer diagnosis—and the resilience, mindset, and determination that helped him through it. Away from business, he's a passionate runner and a strong advocate for the growing weighted running community, and we discuss how movement, discipline, and community have played an important role in both his personal and professional life.

Jon Tye is a former Royal Air Force Vulcan bomber pilot whose career placed him at the sharp end of the Cold War. Flying the iconic Avro Vulcan as part of Britain's V-Force nuclear deterrent, Jon operated during one of the most tense and strategically significant periods in modern history, when crews stood on constant readiness for a conflict that, thankfully, never came.Beyond the aircraft and operations, Jon reflects on how society has changed since his RAF service, offering thoughtful observations on leadership, values, resilience, and the modern world. He also recounts encounters with some of the remarkable, eccentric, and unforgettable characters he met throughout his military career—individuals whose stories help bring the RAF of that era vividly to life, plus close calls in his own career including mid air collisions and ejecting from his own aircraft.Adding another intriguing dimension, Jon discusses a mysterious close encounter involving what appeared to be advanced and potentially classified aerospace technology, an experience that continues to raise questions decades later.

From the rugged coastline of North Wales to some of the world’s most demanding wave breaks, Phil Horrocks has built a reputation as one of Britain’s most respected windsurers. A multiple-time UK wave sailing champion and longtime competitor on the international PWA circuit, Phil is known for explosive jumping, powerful wave riding, and a relentless passion for life on the water. Originally from Manchester and now based around Rhosneigr, Anglesey, Phil’s career has taken him from teaching watersports in Wales to competing against the world’s elite in places like Cape Town, Gran Canaria, and Maui. Along the way, he’s become a leading figure in British windsurf culture, inspiring the next generation through his dedication, authenticity, and love of the sport. In this episode, Phil shares stories from decades chasing wind and waves, the mindset required to compete at the top level, and why the ocean still keeps him hooked after all these years.

This episode, we’re joined by friend of the pod and gym owner Luke Fidler for a deep dive into 9 years of running a successful fitness facility. We chat about the OG CrossFit era, building a loyal community, his infamous Tuesday night Instagram story antics — and to finish, we hit him with a stack of embarrassing questions submitted by his own members 😂

This week we sat down with Mark Murray, founder of mental health service provider Whysup.Mark opened up about how Whysup grew from an idea written on a Post-it note into an organisation now working with companies, schools, and businesses across the UK, delivering training and support around mental health and addiction.Mark also shared his own personal experience with addiction, the impact it had on him, his mental health, and his family, as well as his journey through recovery. Today, he gives back by helping others as the face of Whysup.

Paul (Pod) O’Dee is a Salford-born gym and retreat owner, and a professional combat sports coach.After serving time in prison in his younger years, Pod opened his functional fitness and combat sports gym in Salford, which quickly became home to some of the world’s elite fighters and fitness athletes.Over the years, the gym has remained a solid pillar of the Salford community and has welcomed many pro boxers, footballers, and sports stars for charity events. Listen to Pod talk about growing up on the hard streets of Salford, navigating time in jail, and then giving back by helping some of the area’s most deprived children lead better lives through his teachings of health and fitness, as well as his new venture to Spain, where he has just opened his retreat.

Fresh off the back of our pod with snowboard OG @theb00bytrap & feeling inspired.. we headed out to 🇫🇷,, what followed was 4 days of sun, snow and shred, but that was expected …. What we didn’t plan on was sunburn, having a scrap in a lift with some dudes, nearly missing our flight home, getting stopped by French police & 🐠 having a slash on a car wheel while we got fined 😂. Anyway we break it all down & more, in this weeks 🦇 & 🐠 chat Allez 🤙

This week we caught up with previous guest and friend of the pod Chris Middleton. We talk all things about his Gap year, reality tv, building his profile as a house DJ & the dangers of the manosphere. Plus general bat & fish chat around some current world affairs.

Graham Lamb is a financial investor, adviser, and planner. After serving as a Royal Marine, he stepped into the world of finance, where he has built a successful portfolio and a strong client base. He sits down with us on this podcast to explain how anyone can accumulate over a million pounds in savings with a relatively small investment, as well as understand compound interest. He also shares tips on saving money and where those savings could be invested for the best return on investment.

On this week’s pod we linked up with Freestyle snowboard coach and OG rider John Weatherly (The B00BY Trap) . John is a solid pillar of the Uk snowboard scene & has coached some of the world’s best riders including X games gold medalist & Olympian Mia Brookes. We talk all things about his childhood introduction in to snow sports, learning the hard way with some heavy slams. The evolution of the sport, music, culture and the coaching services he provides to riders of all abilities and ages.

Dan Holder is a former royal marine commando, climber & motivational mind set coach. Dan won one of the most respected awards in the military, a bronze star with valour for his life saving actions during a volatile tour of Afghanistan. Today Dan works with high performers in building a bullet proof mindset, improving quality of life alongside performance in business or sport.His love for the outdoors and climbing mountains recently lead him to being only the 7th man in history to complete a 297 mile arctic spine race in 9 days with -40 conditions. Listen to Dan talk with us about navigating some of the hardest times in his life, his mindset post war, close calls on high peaks, prep for the race & the work he does helping others today.

This weeks episode is a little different — In celebration of Mothers Day, we’ve invited the women who raised us to join the conversation. Our mums step behind the mic to share stories, memories, and their honest thoughts about what it was really like bringing us up. From embarrassing childhood moments to life lessons we didn’t fully appreciate at the time, nothing is off limits. A chance to hear the voices of the women who shaped us.

This week we linked up with Surf shop owner & wind surfer Conor Fagan to talk about his journey from shop employee to owner, how he’s taken the water sports scene in Rhosneigr to the next level while growing his business & taking risks, all at the age of 25. Plus chat about upbringing, surf, travel & plans for the future.

In this episode, Amy shares her powerful story of leaving Jehovah’s Witnesses and rebuilding her life on her own terms. After growing up within the faith, she made the decision to walk away and faced the challenges that followed — including overcoming abusive relationships and starting again from scratch.Amy speaks openly about resilience, self-discovery, and the strength it took to create a healthier future for herself and her children . Today, she is a strong, proud, and independent mother, proving that it’s possible to break free from the past and build a life defined by confidence, freedom, and personal growth.

Steve Mera is a UK-based UFO and UAP investigator with over 30 years of experience, he is an author and founder of phenomenon magazine plus YouTube channels. In this episode, Steve discusses credible UFO and UAP evidence from all over the globe,declassified US government documents, government programs allegedly back-engineering advanced technologies and his own first hand encounters. We also explore history’s enduring mysteries, including the construction of the pyramids & acknowledgement of the phenomenon in religious texts and artwork.

Gemma Fish is a friend, mother & charity hub founder based in Walkden (Salford). Gemma was Diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2023. Listen to her speak about her diagnosis, treatment and the incredible work she has done around raising awareness of Cancer with her blog. Plus how she lives her life today helping others at her community hub & enjoying life with her close friends, family & daughter.

Ray Mellon is a wrestler from The Uk who fights under the name Raynaldo. Ray crossed the pond to Canada to join a wrestling academy as a youngster in the pursuit of fulfilling his dream of becoming a Pro Wrestler. Listen to Ray tell us about what it takes to make the grade, bumps, slaps and injuries, The ins and the outs of the business & the special moments shared with his kids watching him win a championship.

In this Episode we sit down with ex Royal Marine & current serving Fire Fighter Luke Morton to talk about the upcoming Annual Dan Lee Mil race taking place on March 21st 2026. The event is a 10 mile race through the scenic views of Saddleworth Moor Greater Manchester. Established in 2023 in honour of ex Royal Marine, Fire Fighter & Watch manger Dan Lee who passed away in a tragic accident in 2022. Luke highlights how the event not only raises money for various Charities but is accessible for people of all ages, Fitness Levels and Abilities, with post run evening entertainment that serves as a place for family’s friends, ex service personal and Fire Fighters to connect and Remeber Dan.

This episode is in honour of Gareth Parry Owen, in 2023 a group of Gareths friends and family set out on a epic charity row challenge which consisted of a 130 mile round trip from Holyhead Wales to Ireland & back .this was to raise funds for charity’s working in the men’s mental health and suicide prevention space. Listen to Gareth’s brother, cousin & close friends tell the story of a hard 30 hours at sea, stories of laughter and fond memories & importantly the effects of loss & the seriousness of men’s mental health.

Ex Prison officer, turned author and YouTuber Sam Samworth sits down with us for a part 2 , to discuss what brought an end to his long career in Manchesters infamous Strangeways prison, his battles with injury, mental health & family struggles , The downfall of a failing prison system, two tier justice , corrupt officers and some of the most dangerous inmates he has ever locked up.

Vinny Shoreman is a Mind coach and hypnotherapist from Manchester Uk, Over the last 20 years his work has taken him all over the world in helping people deal with trauma and anxiety through guided sessions using techniques that can re program thinking for a positive outcome. Vinny has worked with some of the world’s most elite MMA fighters and high performing business owners. One of few people to make 4 appearances on The Joe rogan experience, Vinny is highly respected and praised for his work. He sits down with us to talk all things about his work , life & new services he will be providing in 2026 at his new HQ.

Joined by the Penguin for a Bat & Fish chat to see out 2025, we talk all things growing up, world affairs, effects of the pandemic, The Bristol stool chart and child hood trips to the poo doctor for the Bat, paper rounds for Penguin & days getting up to no good at Rhyl sun centre with Fish. Plus a discussion on why kids are struggling to build relationships and the dangers of online gaming and social media!!

Frank Evans is a Salford born business man, Father, Grandfather and the last British Matador. Born at the end of WW2, Frank left the streets of Salford to pursue a career in Spain as Bull fighter. Ranked 60th in the world and currently still fighting cattle at the age of 83, he has won the hearts of the Spanish and is known to them as "El Ingles". Listen in to Frank tell his incredible life story, from injuries, flukes, facing 500kg bulls and threats from animal rights activists. To building businesses in Salford, a friendship with football legend George best and his thoughts on the future of the art form that is Bull fighting.

From Rascal hair cuts, back street tattoo shops, Diamond earrings and Council Estate Friday nights, to dusty board shorts Caribbean sun sets, ginger dreadlocks and a trip to the 2012 Olympics, the next instalment of the Bat and Fish chats......You Know What I Mean ??

Steetwear duo from the north Red Bates & Sam Oldroyd are the founders, owners and creative minds behind You Tube Channel Baggys TV and powerhouse Clothing brand, Baggys UK. Listen to Red and Sam Tell their crazy journey from outlet store re-sellers, 70hr a week delivery drivers, visual content creators to CEOs of a brand with steez that has built a community of sneaker heads that love a jean that's always perfectly "Sittin on the Crep"

Aaron Moon is a former Royal Marine commando, motivational speaker, pro golfer, hunter on C4 Tv series Hunted, worlds first amputee indoor sky dive instructor and now an endurance athlete. Listen to Aaron tell his journey from near fatal incident in Afghanistan, learning to live with a prosthetic limb, overcoming adversity in various forms culminating in the creation of The Reborn Mindset plus his epic world record attempt taking place in 2026, a 2517 mile cycle of route 66 in under 24 days.

Chris Middleton is a Manchester based real estate asset manager, distance runner, DJ and part of ITVs Love Island series 12 cast. Listen in to Chris talk of how he left a successful career in London for a career break and stepped in to the world of reality TV, give his view on Island life plus an honest and open take on social media and the pressures it places on todays society.

Adam Hardman is an Ocean Rower, entrepreneur, business owner, husband and farther of two. Adam and his ship mate Will made their incredible 3200 mile crossing of the Atlantic Ocean in a 22 foot vessel "Lucy" completely unassisted and isolated. Listen to Adam tell his epic story of a 47 day journey battling, waves, weather and his fatigued mind to cement his place in the elite group of competitors in "The Worlds Toughest Row"

Ep.3 Part 2 "Disappear in Plain Sight" Andy Williams is a veteran 3 Para solider, ex covert intelligence services officer, Experienced past operator on the close protection circuit scene, current serving Fire Fighter, Farther, Husband, Public Speaker and author of "Beyond The Drop Zone a para troopers story. Listen in to Andy tell his powerful and inspiring story of how a young boy for Wales overcame adversity in all its form to win battles not only in a war zone, but in his own mind. "Utrinque Paratus"

Ep.3 part 1, "Don't take a step back, Forward,Forward,Forward"Andy Williams is a veteran 3 Para solider, Ex covert intelligence services officer, Experienced past operator on the close protection circuit scene, current serving Fire Fighter, Farther, Husband, Public speaker and author of 'Beyond the drop zone, a para troopers story' Listen in to Andy tell his powerful , raw and inspiring story of how a young boy from Wales overcame adversity in all its forms to win battles not only in a war zone, but in his own mind. "Utrinque Paratus"

Neil Samworth is a retired prison officer, podcast host and author of "Strangeways a Prison officers story" Neil (sam) ..worked a long and dynamic career in one of the Uk's toughest jails, the infamous Strangeways prison in Manchester. Listen to him talk all things life behind bars.

The first instalment of the Bat and Fish chats, a brief intro in to who we are/where we're from, early years in two very different schools and why we have decided to venture in to the wild world of podcasting. " You Know What I Mean?"