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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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