Advertise on podcast: The Secret Life of Dads Podcast

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