Big Fellas

In this episode of Big Fellas Weight Loss for Men, Darren and Mark sit down with Adam Boyd, who has lost an incredible 150lbs, but this isn’t just a story about the scales.Adam opens up about the mental health battles that ran alongside his weight gain, including anxiety, addiction, and the coping mechanisms he built from a young age. He talks honestly about how childhood experiences shaped his relationship with food, and why real, lasting change meant doing far more than just dieting.This is a powerful conversation about resilience, self-awareness, and the uncomfortable but necessary work of dealing with what’s going on in your head — not just what’s on your plate.Adam’s journey is proof that dramatic weight loss is possible. But more importantly, it shows that healing, growth, and long-term change come from facing the emotional drivers behind the habits.If you’ve ever felt stuck in the same cycle, this episode will hit home.Key TakeawaysSignificant weight loss doesn’t automatically fix underlying emotional struggles.Childhood experiences can shape adult habits around food, addiction, and self-worth.Anxiety and addiction often sit beneath long-term weight gain.Sustainable weight loss requires mental and emotional work, not just a calorie deficit.The right support network can make the difference between giving up and pushing forward.Real transformation is as much psychological as it is physical.This episode is proudly sponsored by Man v Fat — a weight loss programme built specifically for men.Man v Fat focuses on sustainable weight loss, accountability, and support, whether that’s through their leagues, online programmes, or community.Head over to www.manvfat.org and use the promo code BIGFELLAS to sign up for just £1 instead of £10.

In this episode of Big Fellas Weight Loss for Men, Darren and Mark dive into some powerful conversations taken from the Facebook group Men and Their Emotions — a space where men are opening up about what they’re really dealing with beneath the surface.The discussion covers food addiction, emotional eating, past trauma, and the crossover between food, alcohol, and substance use. Darren and Mark talk honestly about why these issues are rarely “just about food”, and how unaddressed emotional pain often drives the behaviours many men feel stuck with.They also challenge the stigma around men talking about their emotions, especially when it comes to food addiction, which is often brushed off or minimised compared to drugs or alcohol. This episode is about creating space for real conversations, taking responsibility without shame, and understanding that lasting change starts with what’s going on in your head — not just what’s on your plate.Key takeawaysMany men use food as a coping mechanism for stress, trauma, and unresolved emotional pain.Food addiction can be just as damaging as alcohol or drug addiction, even if it’s not treated the same way socially.Ignoring emotional struggles often leads to physical health problems over time.Isolation makes addiction harder to deal with — opening up is a crucial first step.Support, honesty, and self-awareness are key to breaking long-term destructive patterns.You don’t fix deep issues with surface-level solutions — the mindset matters as much as the meal plan.This episode is proudly sponsored by Man v Fat — a weight loss programme built specifically for men.Man v Fat focuses on sustainable weight loss, accountability, and support, whether that’s through their leagues, online programmes, or community.Head over to www.manvfat.org and use the promo code BIGFELLAS to sign up for just £1 instead of £10.

In this practical and motivating episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark are joined by Harrison Burgess, an online personal trainer who brings a refreshingly realistic approach to weight loss and fitness.Harrison shares his own powerful transformation story, explaining how he lost 30 kilos and why that lived experience now shapes the way he coaches others. Together, they explore what actually works when it comes to long-term results — focusing on sustainable habits rather than extreme diets or all-or-nothing training plans.The conversation breaks down the importance of balancing training, nutrition, and mindset, highlighting why small, incremental changes are often far more effective than drastic overhauls. From building a calorie deficit without misery to adopting the identity of someone who trains consistently, this episode is packed with advice men can apply immediately.This is an essential listen for anyone who wants a grounded, achievable path to better health — one built on patience, consistency, and realistic expectations.Key Takeaways:Sustainable weight loss comes from gradual lifestyle changes, not extremes.Harrison lost 30 kilos and uses his personal experience to coach effectively.Progress requires patience, consistency, and realistic expectations.Nutrition matters just as much as training, especially maintaining a calorie deficit.Small habit changes are often the most powerful starting point.Adopting the mindset and identity of a “consistent gym-goer” supports long-term success.You can check out Harrisons Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/harrison__burgess/🎯 Sponsored by Man v Fat Looking for structure, accountability, and a supportive environment to put these habits into action? Join Man v Fat and take control of your health. 👉 https://manvfatfootball.org/

In this episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark break down the newly published food pyramid from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and what it really means for everyday weight loss and health.They compare the modern pyramid to the original version from the 1970s, exploring how decades of nutritional research — and major shifts in how we eat — have shaped today’s updated guidance. The conversation highlights a clear move away from refined carbohydrates and ultra-processed foods, towards whole, minimally processed meals built around protein, healthy fats, vegetables, and fruit.Darren and Mark also discuss why no government guideline should be followed blindly. Instead, they encourage listeners to use the new pyramid as a framework, not a rulebook — one that supports better decision-making, hydration, and long-term consistency rather than short-term dieting.This episode is about understanding the bigger picture of nutrition, learning from past mistakes, and taking personal responsibility for what goes on your plate.Key Takeaways:The new food pyramid prioritises whole, minimally processed foods.Refined carbohydrates and sugary foods are significantly reduced compared to the 1970s model.The inverted design reflects a shift toward protein and healthy fats.Dietary advice has evolved alongside major changes in food availability and lifestyles.Government guidelines are tools, not guarantees — personal responsibility still matters most.Hydration and food quality play a major role in long-term health and weight loss.🎯 Sponsored by Man v Fat Looking for structure, accountability, and a supportive environment to put healthy habits into practice? Join Man v Fat and take control of your health. 👉 https://manvfatfootball.org/

In this New Year’s Day special of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark kick off 2026 with a powerful conversation about the one thing that determines long-term weight loss success more than diet plans or gym routines: mindset.They’re joined by Dr. Sheheryar Banuri, a Dean and Lecturer at Cambridge University, whose work sits at the intersection of mindset, decision-making, and behavioural economics. Dr. Banuri explains why weight loss isn’t about willpower alone, but about the thousands of small decisions we make every day — often when our mental energy is already drained.The discussion explores how habits are formed, why motivation comes and goes, and how understanding emotional vs rational decision-making can radically improve your chances of success. Dr. Banuri introduces the concept of choice architecture — shaping your environment so the healthier option becomes the easier option — and explains why breaking big goals into simple daily actions is the real key to sustainable change.This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to start 2026 with clarity, confidence, and a smarter approach to weight loss that actually lasts.📘 Featured Book RecommendationDr. Banuri is also the author of The Decisive Mind, a book that explores how we make decisions under pressure, why we often choose short-term comfort over long-term benefit, and how to design better systems around ourselves to consistently make the right choices.Rather than relying on motivation, the book focuses on practical strategies to reduce decision fatigue, manage emotional triggers, and build habits that support long-term goals — making it especially relevant for anyone serious about weight loss, health, and personal development in 2026.👉 You can find The Decisive Mind here:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Decisive-Mind-Right-Choice-Every-ebook/dp/B09ZQJZ9NK/Key Takeaways from this episode:Mindset plays a critical role in successful, long-term weight loss.Weight loss is driven by daily decisions, not bursts of motivation.Emotional decision-making often undermines health goals without us realising.Structuring your environment can make healthier choices easier.Different types of motivation can be harnessed at different stages of a journey.Breaking big goals into small, daily actions leads to sustainable success.🎯 Sponsored by Man v FatIf 2026 is the year you want structure, accountability, and real momentum, join Man v Fat and surround yourself with men on the same journey.👉 https://manvfatfootball.org/

In this frank episode of Big Fellas, Darren takes centre stage to talk openly about men’s mental health, a subject that still carries far too much stigma. With the stark reality that one in eight men struggles with mental health issues, Darren shares his own experiences of stress, pressure, and recovery, shaped in part by his time working in the police.He reflects on how societal expectations often push men to stay silent, convincing them they must “just get on with it”, even when they’re struggling. Darren challenges that mindset head-on, reinforcing that asking for help is not weakness — it’s strength.The conversation explores the warning signs of poor mental health, the importance of professional support, and how physical activity, community, and honest conversations can play a vital role in recovery. This episode is a call to action for men to prioritise their mental wellbeing and to support each other by creating a culture where it’s safe to talk.Key Takeaways:One in eight men experiences mental health issues, yet many suffer in silence.Stigma and social expectations often stop men from seeking help.Asking for support is a vital step toward recovery, not a sign of weakness.Darren shares how his policing career impacted his mental health over time.Physical activity, including football, can significantly support mental well-being.Open conversations and community support are essential for long-term mental health.🎯 Sponsored by Man v FatLooking after your mental health starts with looking after your physical health too. Join Man v Fat for accountability, community, and support. Sign up today with code BIGFELLAS and get £1 registration:👉 https://manvfatfootball.org/