

The Secret Life of Dads Podcast
Slodpod
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
Mentioned books

Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 3min
Russell Kane's Fatherhood Kaneing
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.
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Jun 29, 2025 • 60min
Feeding Kids Without the Fight: A Conversation with Lucy Upton
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.
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Jun 18, 2025 • 54min
Raising Resilient, Happy Kids; Rewriting Story Time with Esther Marshall
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

Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 5min
Anton Ferdinand on Legacy, Leadership & Fatherhood
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.
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Jun 6, 2025 • 45min
Dr Julie Smith on Mental Health & Fatherhood
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

May 29, 2025 • 56min
Suppressing Anger is Making You Sick: A Conversation with Sam Parker
In this episode, Mat and Lawrence sit down with journalist Sam Parker, author of the upcoming book Good Anger, to explore the hidden ways suppressed rage can manifest as anxiety, depression and chronic health issues. Together, they unpack why ignoring our anger is often more harmful than feeling it - and how learning to channel anger productively can lead to personal growth, stronger relationships and a healthier, more authentic life.
This week’s episode includes a paid advertisement for Better Help. You can get your exclusive discount as Secret Life Of Dads listener by using the link https://www.betterhelp.com/slod to start your therapy journey and become your best self.
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May 21, 2025 • 1h 12min
Childhood to Adolescence: A Dad’s Role – with Dr. Wendy Mogel
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

May 14, 2025 • 53min
'A New Kind of Wilderness' with Nik Payne
Lawrence and Mat sit down with Nik Payne - father of four, widower and the heart of the Sundance-winning documentary A New Kind of Wilderness.
They talk about raising kids in the Norwegian wilderness, life after the loss of his wife Maria and what it really means to hold onto your values as a man and father when life takes you far off the map - emotionally, physically and spiritually.
It’s a raw, honest conversation about resilience, grief and intentional parenting in a world that doesn’t always make space for it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 9, 2025 • 46min
Fatherhood in Business - Jack Wills founder Peter Williams
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

May 4, 2025 • 1h 11min
Dr. Josh Wolrich on Food, Kids and Letting Go of Diets
Mat and Lawrence sit down with Dr. Joshua Wolrich - NHS doctor, nutritionist and author of Food Isn't Medicine - to discuss how dads can foster a healthier, more relaxed relationship with food. They explore the pitfalls of diet culture, the benefits of weight-neutral health and how to model positive eating habits for the whole family. Tune in for practical insights and a fresh perspective on nutrition that challenges the status quo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


