In this episode, Darren and Mark are joined by Ben Obese-Jecty, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Huntingdonshire. Ben shares his inspiring journey from the front lines of Iraq and Afghanistan to the corridors of Westminster. With honest reflections on military life, public service, and what drives him to make a difference, Ben opens up about the challenges of becoming an MP, the fight against youth knife crime, and the need for better support for male victims of interpersonal abuse.

This conversation also delves deeper into men’s health, with Ben, Darren, and Mark discussing the growing burden of obesity on the NHS, the decline in physical activity among men, and why personal responsibility is more important than ever.

Key Takeaways:

• Ben’s candid insight into military life and why it shaped his leadership style.
• The demanding path from soldier to politician — and why Ben took it.
• The urgent issue of knife crime and how Parliament can better respond.
• Why male victims of abuse need more recognition and support.
• The real cost of obesity on public health and the NHS.
• How society has shifted away from physical activity, and what we can do to reverse this trend.

🎯 Sponsored by Man v Fat

Want to take your first step toward a healthier life? Sign up for Man v Fat with code BIGFELLAS and get £1 registration:

👉 https://manvfatfootball.org

This week, Mark sits down with Sam Brown, a gut health specialist and nutritionist, to talk about how what’s going on in your gut could be the key to feeling better, losing weight, and boosting your mood.

Sam shares her powerful story of living with Crohn’s disease and how she turned things around by changing her diet. That experience led her to help others understand how much gut health affects the rest of your body, including energy, weight, and even mental health.

We talk about what to eat (and what to avoid), why sleep and strength training matter, and how simple changes to your diet can help you feel more in control of your health and cravings.

🥦 Key Takeaways:

- Why your gut health matters more than you think

- How Sam took control of Crohn’s with food — no meds

- The four big areas that support gut health: sleep, gut bugs (microbiome), detox, and fibre

- Why fermented foods like yoghurt and sauerkraut are your gut’s best mates

- How your gut affects your mood and food cravings

Simple tips to feel better: more protein, more fibre, better sleep, and some weights

💪 JOIN MAN V FAT

If you’re ready to take control of your health and lose weight with other men on the same journey, check out www.manvfat.org

🎯 Use code BIGFELLAS to get started for just £1 (normally £10) at manvfat.org

You can also find out more about Sam and her free 15-minute consultation on here website here: https://www.sambrownnutrition.com/

This episode is the coming together of football and weight loss, as we welcome Ben and Will from the Football Drop Podcast. Together, we explore how engaging in football can serve as a catalyst for achieving weight loss goals and promoting a healthier lifestyle. Our conversation highlights the importance of community support within the Man v Fat league, which serves as a motivating factor for individuals embarking on their weight loss journeys. We also explore personal experiences and practical strategies that have proven effective for the participants, emphasising accountability and camaraderie. This episode is replete with insights that illustrate how the beautiful game can contribute not only to physical fitness but also to holistic well-being.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we discuss the integration of football and weight loss, emphasising the importance of community support in achieving personal health goals.
• Our guests share their experiences with the Man v Fat football leagues, highlighting how the game fosters camaraderie and accountability among players.
• We explore the significance of tracking weight loss progress, demonstrating how awareness of caloric intake can enhance successful dietary changes.
• The discussion includes personal stories of significant weight loss achievements, underscoring the transformative power of commitment and teamwork in fitness journeys.
• Listeners are encouraged to consider the mental and physical benefits of participating in sports, particularly about overall well-being and social interaction.
• We conclude with insights into the evolving nature of football-related fitness programmes, advocating for the fusion of enjoyment and health in lifestyle choices.

Ready to make the second half of 2025 count? Join Man v Fat Football and get support from blokes just like us.

🎯 Use code BIGFELLAS to sign up for just £1 (normally £10) at manvfatfootball.org

We’re halfway through 2025, so it’s time for a team talk.

In this special “half-time” episode, Darren and Mark step off the pitch to reflect on the first six months of the year. Whether you've been smashing your goals or sliding into your old habits, this is your chance to reset, refocus, and get ready for the second half.

We talk honestly about how our weight loss journeys have been going since January, the wins, the wobbles, and everything in between. We also look ahead to what we want to achieve by the end of the year, and how we’re going to get there.

Just like in football, the second half is where legends are made.

• Our half-year review, real talk on progress, struggles, and what surprised us
• Setting goals for the rest of 2025 and how to make them stick
• How to bounce back if you've gone off track
• Why now is the perfect time to hit reset

Ready to make the second half of 2025 count? Join Man v Fat Football and get support from blokes just like us.

🎯 Use code BIGFELLAS to sign up for just £1 (normally £10) at manvfatfootball.org

We're on all major podcast platforms, plus TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

Tag us with your 2025 progress using #BigFellasPodcast and tell us your goal for the second half of the year!

Darren and Mark are accompanied by the distinguished Dexter, a celebrated member of the Man V Fat Hall of Fame, who has achieved remarkable success in his weight loss journey. Dexter has commendably lost an impressive ten stone through the programme, a testament to his dedication and resilience. Throughout our discussion, we explored the methodologies that underpinned his transformation, particularly his emphasis on portion control and the importance of tracking caloric intake. In addition, Dexter candidly shares his experiences regarding the mental health challenges he faced, illuminating the profound impact that his weight loss journey has had on his overall well-being. This episode serves as a source of inspiration and practical guidance for those embarking on or navigating their weight loss journeys.

Takeaways:

• Dexter's incredible journey involved losing 10 stone through portion control and tracking calories.
• Mindful eating was emphasised by Dexter, highlighting the importance of understanding what one consumes.
• The supportive community within Man V Fat played a crucial role in Dexter's weight loss success.
• Dexter's mental health improved significantly as he became more active and engaged socially.
• The podcast highlighted the importance of setting manageable goals throughout the weight loss journey.
• Dexter's experience shows that age is not a barrier to making positive lifestyle changes.

Join Darren, Mark and Josh in the Man V Fat league, a weight loss initiative to help men lose weight and become more active. Listeners of this podcast can use the Promo Code BIGFELLAS. You will pay just a £1 registration fee when you join, saving £9!

To find out more, visit their website here: https://www.manvfatfootball.org/

Also, be sure to subscribe for some exciting episodes that are coming up.

The discussion surrounding testosterone, the principal male hormone, reveals its profound influence on various aspects of male health, particularly the detrimental effects associated with its deficiency. In our exploration, we elucidate how a lack of testosterone can manifest in symptoms such as diminished libido, erectile dysfunction, and a notable decline in mood and energy levels. Our conversation underscores the alarming statistic that approximately one in four men may experience low testosterone, particularly as they age, leading to a range of physical and psychological challenges. Furthermore, we delve into the multifaceted causes of low testosterone, including lifestyle factors such as inadequate sleep, poor dietary choices, and the impact of excess body fat. It is imperative for us to acknowledge these issues, as understanding the role of testosterone can empower men to seek appropriate interventions and adopt healthier lifestyles.

Takeaways:

• Testosterone is a vital hormone influencing various aspects of male health, including mood, energy, and muscle mass.
• A significant decline in testosterone levels occurs after the age of 30, potentially affecting many men.
• Low testosterone can lead to detrimental health effects, such as mood swings and increased body fat.
• Lifestyle factors like poor sleep and diet can exacerbate low testosterone levels and overall well-being.
• Men experiencing symptoms of low testosterone should consider seeking medical advice for assessment and potential treatment.
• Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a balanced diet can naturally support testosterone production and improve health.

Join Darren, Mark and Josh in the Man V Fat league, a weight loss initiative to help men lose weight and become more active. Listeners of this podcast can use the Promo Code BIGFELLAS. You will pay just a £1 registration fee when you join, saving £9!

To find out more, visit their website here: https://www.manvfatfootball.org/

Also, be sure to subscribe for some exciting episodes that are coming up.

The remarkable journey of Josh Deegan, a Man v Fat Hall of Fame inductee, serves as a testament to the transformative power of determination and community in the realm of weight loss. Having achieved a staggering loss of 60 kilos, equivalent to nearly nine and a half stone, Josh recounts his experiences and the pivotal moments that led him to this significant milestone in his life. Throughout our conversation, he elucidates not only the practical strategies he employed but also the emotional and psychological challenges he faced along the way. The support and camaraderie found within the Man v Fat community played an instrumental role in his success, providing both motivation and accountability. Join us as we delve into Josh's inspiring narrative, exploring the intricate relationship between personal commitment, community support, and the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.

Takeaways:

• Josh Deegan's remarkable weight loss journey, culminating in a loss of 60 kilos, exemplifies the transformative power of commitment and perseverance.
• The Man v Fat initiative has provided Josh with a supportive community, significantly contributing to his motivation and success in achieving his weight loss goals.
• Josh emphasises the importance of making small, incremental changes to one's diet and lifestyle, rather than attempting drastic alterations that are often unsustainable.
• The psychological impact of weight loss, including enhanced self-esteem and improved body image, has profoundly altered Josh's relationship with food and exercise.
• Maintaining weight loss can be more challenging than the initial weight loss phase, necessitating ongoing vigilance and healthy habits to prevent reverting to old behaviours.
• Josh's experience illustrates that personal accountability and support from peers are essential components in fostering a successful weight management journey.

If you have enjoyed Josh's story and want to join Darren, Mark and Josh in the Man V Fat league, a weight loss initiative to help men lose weight and become more active. Listeners of this podcast can use the Promo Code BIGFELLAS. You will pay just a £1 registration fee when you join, saving £9!

To find out more, visit their website here: https://www.manvfatfootball.org/

Also, be sure to subscribe for some exciting episodes that are coming up.

In this episode, Darren and Mark talk with Gill, a Cardiac Nurse Specialist and Wellbeing coach, to discuss the critical topic of heart health. They explore Gill's extensive experience in cardiology, the causes and prevention of heart disease, the importance of early warning signs, and the role of lifestyle changes such as weight loss, exercise, and diet in maintaining heart health. Gill explains the need for personalised support and the power of conversation in facilitating positive changes in individuals' lives.

Takeaways (excuse the pun):

• Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the UK.
• Erectile dysfunction can signal potential heart issues.
• Small weight loss can significantly improve heart health.
• Regular exercise, including walking, is crucial for heart fitness.
• Rest and recovery are essential components of a healthy exercise routine.
• The conversation about heart health is vital for prevention.
• Dietary choices greatly impact heart health and overall well-being.
• Processed foods should be minimised for better heart health.
• Weight loss should be gradual and sustainable for long-term success.
• Personalised coaching can help individuals make lasting lifestyle changes.

As discussed in the episode, you can find out more about the amazing work Gill is doing with her clients on her website: Healthy Heart Coaching | Farthing Health. Gill offers a free, complimentary session, so be sure to take her up on her kind offer!

Darren and Mark play in the Man Vs Fat League, a weight loss initiative to help men lose weight and become more active. If you would like to join Man V Fat, listeners of this podcast can use the Promo Code BIGFELLAS. You will pay just a £1 registration fee when you join!

To find out more, visit their website here: https://www.manvfatfootball.org/

Also, be sure to subscribe for some exciting episodes that are coming up.