The Secret Life of Dads Podcast
Kids & Family
About
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
Episodes
- “We’re Asking Fathers to Do the Impossible” with Dr Anna Machin
Evolutionary anthropologist Dr. Anna Machin joins The Secret Life of Dads Podcast to discuss the science, biology, and changing roles of modern fatherhood. The conversation explores how becoming a father impacts men's brains and identities.
- Ben Aldis: Redefining Strength Through Fatherhood
Peloton coach Ben Aldis discusses how fatherhood has reshaped his understanding of strength, identity, and purpose. He reflects on his relationship with his own father and the process of defining his own legacy as a parent.
- Alex Hutchinson: Exploring Life and the Art of Enduring Parenthood
Lawrence and Mat interview author and performance scientist Alex Hutchinson on The Secret Life of Dads Podcast. They discuss applying principles of curiosity, motivation, and mental endurance to the experiences of modern parenthood.
- Keeping Your Relationship Alive While Raising Kids - with Eli Weinstein
Lawrence and Mat discuss maintaining romantic relationships while raising children with therapist and author Eli Weinstein. They explore the identity shift to co-parenting, managing resentment, communication challenges, and practical tools…
- How Sporty Kids Should Eat - with Performance Canteen
This episode features Performance Canteen discussing nutrition myths for sporty kids, addressing concerns about sugar, overeating, and the risks of under-fueling active teens.
- Chris Robsaw & Camilla Kerslake - Performance & Parenting
Chris Robshaw and Camilla Kerslake share insights on balancing elite performance in sports and entertainment with parenting, discussing resilience and family life amidst busy careers.
- Ugo Monye on the Rise of Women’s Rugby, Grassroots Legacy & Fatherhood
Former rugby star Ugo Monye joins The Secret Life of Dads to discuss the growth of women's rugby and the importance of parental support for children, particularly daughters, in sports.
- Jake Quickenden - Leading by Example & Processing Grief
Jake Quickenden discusses his decade-long career, his approach to fatherhood, and processing grief, inspired by his late father. The episode explores his vulnerability and growth.
- Ryan Libbey on a 2nd Child, Finding Purpose through Adversity & Men who go DEEP
Ryan Libbey joins Mat & Lawrence to discuss male fertility and current family aspirations. He shares insights from the challenging Marathon Des Sables and emphasizes the growing priority of connecting with other men willing to engage in de…
- Rebecca Adlington: Swimming Through Grit, Gold and Growing Up into Parenthood
Rebecca Adlington, Britain's most successful female swimmer, shares her journey from Olympic champion to motherhood. She discusses her mindset, challenges, and evolution into parenthood.
- Charlie Launder on 'What Dads Need to Know About Postnatal Fitness'
Charlie Launder discusses how fathers can aid their partner's physical recovery and build strength and connection post-birth. The conversation emphasizes support beyond just 'bouncing back' and highlights the importance of movement for con…
- Russell Kane's Fatherhood Kaneing
Comedian Russell Kane joins hosts Lawrence and Mat to discuss modern fatherhood, covering topics such as intimacy after childbirth, male fertility, biohacking, fitness, and the pressures of masculinity.
- Feeding Kids Without the Fight: A Conversation with Lucy Upton
Lawrence and Mat discuss feeding children with paediatric dietitian Lucy Upton, founder of The Children’s Dietitian. They cover topics like fussy eating, allergies, and strategies to reduce mealtime stress and build a positive relationship…
- Raising Resilient, Happy Kids; Rewriting Story Time with Esther Marshall
Esther Marshall, founder of Sophie Says, shares her journey advocating for emotional wellbeing and inclusion in children, discussing how grief and motherhood inspired her mission to help kids grow.
- Anton Ferdinand on Legacy, Leadership & Fatherhood
Anton Ferdinand shares insights from his football career and reflects on the influence of his father and his own journey into fatherhood. The discussion covers identity, legacy, and the meaning of being a supportive man.
- Dr Julie Smith on Mental Health & Fatherhood
Dr. Julie Smith joins Mat and Lawrence to discuss mental health and fatherhood, covering vulnerability, balancing work and family, self-compassion, and being present for children.
- Suppressing Anger is Making You Sick: A Conversation with Sam Parker
This episode discusses how suppressing anger can lead to health problems like anxiety and depression. It features journalist Sam Parker and explores how acknowledging and channeling anger can promote personal growth and better relationship…
- Childhood to Adolescence: A Dad’s Role – with Dr. Wendy Mogel
Dr. Wendy Mogel joins Lawrence and Mat to discuss the pivotal role dads play in guiding children from childhood through adolescence. The episode explores practical strategies for fathers to foster resilience, self-reliance, and open commun…
- 'A New Kind of Wilderness' with Nik Payne
Nik Payne, father of four and widower, joins Lawrence and Mat to discuss raising his children in the Norwegian wilderness, coping with the loss of his wife Maria, and the challenges of intentional parenting and staying true to one's values.
- Fatherhood in Business - Jack Wills founder Peter Williams
Peter Williams, founder of the iconic British style brand Jack Wills, shares his wisdom on building businesses, identity, and raising children. He discusses the lessons learned from founding Jack Wills at 23 and his current venture, Aubin,…
- Dr. Josh Wolrich on Food, Kids and Letting Go of Diets
Mat and Lawrence talk with Dr. Joshua Wolrich about how dads can build a better relationship with food, addressing diet culture, promoting weight-neutral health, and modeling good eating habits for their families.
- From McDonald’s to England Rugby: Dr. James Morehen on Nutrition, Parenting & Peak Performance
Dr. James Morehen shares his journey from a family McDonald’s franchise to becoming the Lead Performance Nutritionist for England Rugby. The episode discusses his approach to nutrition, parenting in the age of ultra-processed foods, and mi…
- Dr Megan Rossi on Gut Health for Parents
Dr. Megan Rossi, a gut health expert and mum of two, discusses her work making nutrition science accessible for families. She investigates nutrition-based therapies and offers personalized support for digestive and overall health.
- Change Your State, Change Your Life: The Breathwork Episode with Jamie Clements
This episode features Jamie Clements discussing breathwork as a practical tool for fathers to manage the mental and emotional weight of modern life. It explores how conscious breathing can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and foster self…
- Helen Glover OBE - Parenthood is NOT the End of Your Dreams
Olympic champion Helen Glover OBE shares her experience of assumptions made about her return to elite sport after motherhood. She reflects on how this challenged her identity, fuelled her comeback, and led her to discover new strength, dem…
- Dad Stories - Hugh Wahla
Hugh Wahla shares his life story, detailing his rise in the fashion industry after overcoming childhood trauma, his experience with burnout, and his subsequent focus on health, balance, and redefining success.
- From One GCSE to Making Grammar Go Viral: The MC Grammar Story
MC Grammar, Jacob Mitchell, shares his story of overcoming academic challenges to become a global sensation by using hip-hop to make education engaging and accessible for children worldwide.
- Special Episode: Fatherhood in Elite Sport - with Saracens Rugby
Rugby players Ivan van Zyl and James Tirrell discuss the challenges and strategies of balancing elite professional sports careers with fatherhood. They share insights on maintaining focus, family presence, and passing on valuable lessons t…
- The Parenting Lies That Are Breaking Us (And What to Do Instead) - with Zoe Blaskey
This episode features Zoe Blaskey, founder of Motherkind, discussing the psychological shifts in modern parenthood, shared challenges for parents, and strategies for building resilience and confidence. The episode is sponsored by NordVPN.
- Triple Amputee, Veteran Marine - Mark Ormrod on Resilience
Mark Ormrod, a triple amputee and veteran Marine who lost limbs in Afghanistan, shares his experiences with resilience, mindset, and fatherhood.
- Healing Food & Functional Mushrooms with Gemma Ogston
Gemma Ogston, author of 'The Self Care Cookbook' and 'The Healing Cookbook,' joins Mat and Lawrence to discuss her transition to a wellness lifestyle, the challenges of parenting, and how nutrition can improve mood and daily routines.
- Domestic Abuse - a New Perspective with Lauren Seager-Smith
Mat and Lawrence interview Lauren Seager-Smith, CEO of For Baby's Sake Trust, about their approach to empowering parents to break the cycle of domestic abuse and foster positive change for future generations.
- 'Unprocess Your Family Life' with Nutritionist Rob Hobson
Nutritionist Rob Hobson joins The Secret Life of Dads Podcast to discuss the challenges of children
- Pelvic Floor - YES MEN TOO! with Clare Bourne
Physiotherapist Clare Bourne joins hosts Mat and Lawrence to discuss the role and importance of the pelvic floor, specifically focusing on men's health.
- Alcohol's New Era - 'Mindful Drinking' with Cami Vidal
Cami Vidal discusses the 'mindful drinking' trend with Lawrence and Mat, exploring moderation, alcohol-free options, and questioning cultural norms around alcohol consumption.
- Bobby Rich on Martial Arts for our kids, training David Beckham & living with Guy Richie
Bobby Rich, a 5-time British Judo champion, shares insights on sports discipline, overcoming anxiety, and lessons from defeat with podcast hosts Mat & Lawrence. He also discusses training notable figures and offers parenting advice for int…
- A Shock Conversation with Alex Crockford...?
Alex Crockford, a fitness cover model for nearly a decade, shares the deep-rooted spiritual beliefs that have guided his journey. This episode features his first public and open discussion on this subject.
- Becoming an 'Unexpected Dad' - with Psychologist Jo Carlile
Psychologist Jo Carlile joins Mat and Lawrence on The Secret Life of Dads Podcast to discuss the psychological and emotional challenges of becoming an unexpected father and navigating the sudden life changes involved.
- Fitness & Fatherhood with Mr PMA Faisal Abdalla
This episode features Faisal Abdalla discussing how parents can set a positive example for children concerning fitness and health. It explores how fitness benefits parental energy and wellbeing, contributing to a healthier next generation.
- The Tantrum Survival Guide with Dr Rebecca Hershberg
Child psychologist Dr. Rebecca Hershberg discusses effective strategies for managing toddler and preschooler tantrums, offering insights into the science behind meltdowns and practical techniques for parents to help their children calm dow…
- The Power of Children's TV with Corin Long
This episode discusses children's television, examining how it has changed for today's kids, what defines quality UK productions, and whether YouTube poses a threat to children's development.
- The Science of Sex - Psychosexual Therapist Kate Moyle
Psychosexual therapist Kate Moyle discusses the challenges of sexual desire, intimacy, and connection for parents with hosts Mat and Lawrence on The Secret Life of Dads Podcast. The conversation covers various topics openly.
- The Fight for Fair Paternity Leave - The Dad Shift
The UK's statutory paternity leave is among the worst in Europe, offering just two weeks of paid leave at a low rate. Alex from The Dad Shift campaign discusses the negative effects on families and society.
- Improve Your Relationship - with Lisa McFarland
This episode features Lisa McFarland discussing tools for better relationship intimacy, communication, and conflict resolution, specifically for parents navigating relationship challenges.
- Joseph Kibler - Born HIV Positive & Disabled is Soon to Become a Father
Joseph Kibler, born HIV positive and disabled, shares his experience and insights on becoming a father. The episode covers how his partner and child will not carry HIV, and offers guidance on discussing disabilities and encouraging kindnes…
- The Misrepresentation of Men - with 'The Tin Men'
This episode discusses the hidden statistics about men, media rhetoric that condemns men, and the damaging polarization caused by genderized topics. It features George from 'The Tin Men' to explore mens mental health and the unpopular othe…
- Prolific Television Exec Neil Smith on Building Men's Mental Health app 'Mettle'
Neil Smith left his TV career to co-found the men
- Sex, porn & self pleasure with mens intimacy expert David Chambers
David Chambers, an intimacy coach, joins The Secret Life of Dads Podcast to discuss communication around sex in relationships, particularly for parents. They explore the role of porn in intimacy and the shift in men's self-pleasure from sh…
- Into the Wild with Lucy Shepherd
Lucy Shepherd discusses her Amazon expedition featured in a Channel 4 show, detailing the extreme dangers faced. She also explores the significance of incorporating adventure into children's development.
- Why Dads Need to Learn About the Menopause - with Kate Rowe-Ham
Mat and Lawrence discuss the importance of dads understanding menopause with expert Kate Rowe-Ham, aiming to better support their partners through this life stage.