Beyond the Shed: Expanding Horizons in Men's Conversations

In this episode, we are joined by Brian Conley for a revealing conversation centered around his life, career, and personal challenges. Brian shares anecdotes from his time as a stage performer, including cherished moments from his pantomime and musical experiences, as well as his stint on EastEnders. The discussion takes a reflective turn as Brian opens up about overcoming personal struggles, incl...

In this episode, I speak with historian John about his new book Be a Man, which explores masculinity in England from the Industrial Revolution to today. We discuss themes like fatherhood, work, and youth, as well as how societal expectations of men have evolved. John shares how personal experiences with mental health led him to this work and the role of men’s groups in fostering support. We also t...

In this episode, therapist and author Alex unpacks how even “normal” childhoods can leave lasting emotional imprints. He shares his personal story of fatherlessness and family mental health struggles, offering a rare, vulnerable look at how early emotional needs shape adult behavior. We explore how men often suppress emotions due to societal pressures and why mentorship and healthy male role model...

In this episode, we sit down with Drewe, a former professional footballer turned high-performance coach, as he opens up about the challenges of being a man in today's world. Drewe shares a powerful story about his son’s struggle with expressing his emotions, shedding light on the critical importance of validating rather than suppressing feelings. We dive deep into the complexities of modern mascul...

In this episode, we sit down with two incredible guests, Seth and Mike, for a heartfelt conversation about masculinity, personal journeys, and the power of connection. Seth, a father of three, reflects on how growing up without his father inspired him to be a more present dad. He shares stories from his early career in the music industry, including working with Whitney Houston's fan club, and how...

"If you died tomorrow, what would you regret?" This powerful question drives our conversation with Deri, who reflects on his father's deathbed regrets and how it shaped his life. Deri shares how his father's reflections on missed opportunities inspired him to live fully and pursue his passions without hesitation. He recounts his harrowing experience on Mount Everest in 2015, where a massive earthq...

In this episode of Beyond the Shed, we had the pleasure of welcoming Steve, a seasoned entrepreneur and consultant, to discuss a wide range of topics that resonate with men in the 21st century. Our conversation meandered through personal anecdotes, cultural references, and insights into the challenges men face today. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 05:32 - The Evolution of Live Music 09:0...

Discover Rod’s vision for a circular economy and the hurdles he faces in making sustainable change a reality. In this episode, Rod opens up about his work with Unwasted, a company that creates eco-friendly products using patented technology, free from harmful chemicals. He shares his frustrations with investors who prioritize profit over meaningful progress and the financial and emotional stress t...

What does it mean to truly be healthy? Join us as we redefine health beyond just the absence of disease! John kicks off by sharing his eventful night at a white-collar boxing match, leading to a humorous discussion on alcohol, intermittent fasting, and unintended health choices. We dive into the artistry of boxing, the physical demands of the sport, and the serious risks of brain injuries in conta...

Are you curious about the principles that can unlock your potential? In this episode, Jamie Smart shares how understanding mind, consciousness, and thought can lead to a deeper connection with yourself. Jamie shares profound insights on how our well-being is innate, and our feelings are simply reflections of our thinking. He emphasizes that true clarity comes not from acquiring more knowledge, but...

Catch this heartfelt episode where John and Marcus explore patience and the true value of time. John opens up about a recent adventure picking up his daughter from university—a journey filled with van rental hiccups and unexpected lessons in staying calm under pressure. Their conversation flows through life’s twists and turns, touching on relationships, the power of perspective, and how our mindse...

In this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Charly, an experienced entrepreneur and tech expert, to explore the inspirations that drive his success. He shares a heartfelt story from his childhood, where crafting wood projects with his grandfather sparked his entrepreneurial journey. Charly also reveals the five key principles for success and how aligning them can lead to a fulfilling, pr...

Join us as we sit down with Neil Smith, founder of the men's mental fitness app METTLE, to discuss the importance of mental health among men. This insightful conversation explores a range of topics, from football and family dynamics to Neil’s personal journey and professional accomplishments. We dive deep into how men can improve their mental well-being, touching on subjects like meditation, breat...

Join us as we explore the importance of open conversations among men, addressing topics such as mental health, relationships, and societal expectations. Learn about the changing landscape of masculinity, the impact of violence in society, the significance of role models and mentors, and how societal pressures can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Discover ways to navigate these challenging topics to...

Join Jake as he takes us behind the scenes of his upcoming film, Lightning Flowers, a compelling coming-of-age story about resilience and survival. In this episode, Jake delves into the inspiration behind the film, his creative journey, and the challenges he faced during production. The conversation also explores the significance of father-son relationships, the impact of upbringing on personal de...

Send us a textIn this episode, Piers Ravenhill shares his powerful story of transformation, detailing his rise to prominence as a drug dealer and the two lengthy prison sentences that followed, totaling over 17 years. Piers reflects on the choices that brought him down this path, the challenges he faced in prison, and the moments of clarity that emerged during his arrests. He discusses the profoun...

Send us a textIn this episode, Cliff and John reflect on their 37-year friendship, discussing how trust, loyalty, and emotional openness have strengthened their bond through life's ups and downs. They explore the significance of male friendships, particularly in the context of today's challenges for younger generations who often lack positive male role models. Reflecting on their upbringing in the...

Send us a textJoin us in this episode with Tom Chapman, founder of the Lions Barber Collective, who shares his story from hairdresser to mental health advocate. Tom reflects on how cutting hair allows him to stay present and mindful while challenging stereotypes about hairdressing as a career. He recounts the heartbreaking loss of his friend to suicide, which motivated him to create the Lions Barb...

Send us a textWelcome to the first episode with hosts Marcus and John. Today, they finally bring their long-discussed idea to life, aiming to create a safe space for men to share their feelings and experiences, break down the barriers of toxic masculinity, and encourage open dialogue. In this episode, they reflect on their own backgrounds, the values instilled in them from a young age, and how the...