Dadvengers Podcast

Simon Thomas is a well known TV presenter, and broadcaster, best known for hosting Soccer Saturday on Sky. He is also a father who went through a tragic loss and became a solo parent to his son, Ethan. After navigating grief together, Simon found love again and has added a daughter to his family.  After growing up in a stable home with a father who was strict but fair, Simon has fond memories of his childhood. Although his dad was never an emotional man, he was more able to show his emotions as he got older and would express his pride in Simon.  After becoming a dad at 36, Simon was loving parenthood with his wife Gemma. Sadly she became suddenly unwell and died just days after being diagnosed with cancer. Simon was thrown into navigating grief with his son but luckily, he found support that helped them through.  Since then Simon has gone onto find love again with his wife Derrina. They have a beautiful baby girl who was born 8 weeks premature, After her dramatic entrance, their daughter Talitha has gone from strength to strength and is a healthy bundle of joy!  Simon is a truly inspirational father and we're so thankful to him for joining us 

David Lammy is a father of 3, member of parliament and a champion for dad's rights in the family. He grew up in London and represents the ward of Tottenham as a labour MP. He is also the Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Developmental Affairs.  David's father was a charming, friendly guy but was hiding a problem with alcohol and could be unpredictable in his moods. He left the family when David was around 11 years old which has had a huge impact on his life.  After becoming a dad in his early 30's, David realised there was a lack of support for fathers; particularly young parents. This has shaped his political career and he campaigns for an overhaul in the paternity system in the UK.  David also tells us about getting into therapy, the amazing support he gets from his psychotherapist, and raising children with modern problems and worries, such as knife crime.  This is a brilliant chat with an inspirational father and we're so grateful to David for joining us 

*** Trigger Warning - In this episode we discuss topics that may be triggering for some listeners, namely suicide and child loss. If you're affected by any of the topics in this episode you can find support here***   Ian Russell is a producer and director in television, working on TV dramas, royal weddings and some of the biggest sporting events in the world. He is also an inspirational father and campaigner for online safety.  After growing up in an idyllic childhood, with a close family and a strong, present father, Ian always wanted to be a dad.  He went on to have three daughters and describes fatherhood as the biggest job in the world, that comes without a manual! Ian loves being a dad and was recreating the idyllic life he'd experienced for his own family, until tragedy struck.  Ian's daughter Molly sadly took her own life at just 14 years of age, after struggling with seeing extremely graphic unregulated content on social media. Ian and his family fought to have a full inquest into Molly's death that has led to campaigns around online safety and regulations for all users. But, especially those most vulnerable - our children. They've also started a charity to support young people struggling with online content and worked with legislators to introduce the UK's first online safety bill.  Ian is an inspirational father and his strength in sharing Molly's story is awe-inspiring. We are so grateful to Ian for joining us

This week Nigel is joined by the music producer, musician and father, Olugbenga Adelekan.  As a musician, Olugbenga does a lot of travelling. Despite this he was ready for parenthood but when his son Ravi was diagnosed with a brain tumour at age 7, his parenting journey took a turn. The tumour was removed but that surgery has left Ravi with lasting symptoms. Olugbenga as any parent would, found this time hard. Listen as we find out exactly how he has coped. We're also joined by a special guest in the episode... Olugbenga's wife, Bethan, who shares another perspective of this thought provoking and inspirational story. In 2022 to mark the first anniversary of Ravi's surgery, they worked with some world renowned musicians to record a song, which they released to raise money for Brainstrust and the Brain Tumour Charity.  The single has raised over £89,000 so far, and the total is still climbing!  Thanks to Olugbenga and Bethan for joining us

Josh Connolly is making waves in the mental health world. He is one of the UK's most influential mental health advocates and has spoken in the House of Commons, to help shape mental health policy, but life didn't start there. Josh grew up in a household with an alcoholic parent, which had a massive impact on his life. He remembers a lot of feelings of fear and shame and by the time he was 12 Josh was using alcohol. Cut to 24 and Josh was a dad to four children and separated from their mum. That's when he realised he needed to stop drinking. He joined a 12 step programme and got sober, but all the emotions he'd been suppressing came back. Hearing Josh's story of going from a dark, deep depression, to using his experiences to help other people is truly inspirational. We're so grateful to Josh for joining us

Rickie is a TV and radio presenter, currently hosting a daytime show on BBC Radio 1. He also co-hosts his own podcast and most importantly – is a dad!  As a young man Rickie always knew he wanted to be a dad one day, and he became a one to Lola at 32. However, in the back of his mind he knew this relationship wasn't working out. He soon became a single parent and had to navigate co-parenting with a young baby. This wasn't always easy but as you will hear he found a way to make it work!  Later in Life Rickie met his now partner, Nat, who also had a daughter of a similar age to Lola. Previous experiences have meant he's settled into the role of stepdad to Dusty and loves it! In this ep, he tells us about how they blended their families and why is it so important to him to ensure both girls are equally included.  Happy to extend their family further they have since added baby Cruz into the mix!  It's great to hear from a dad who is both a biological and step parent and hear more about the joys and complexities of blended family life!  Huge thanks to Rickie for sharing his story with us 

***Trigger Warning*** – In this episode we discuss topics that may be triggering for some listeners, namely Babies in Intensive care and baby loss. If you are affected by any of the subjects in this episode you can find support here. Iwan Thomas is an Olympic athlete, TV presenter, commentator, Celebrity Masterchef and a dad! Iwan was a whirlwind of a child and his strict, military dad encouraged him to focus on sport - which turned out brilliantly! After spending many years focussed on sport and being a self-confessed, selfish athlete, at 45 Iwan was ready to become a dad. His first son, Teddy was rushed to intensive care shortly after birth with the life threatening infection, Group B Strep. Iwan was thrust into being a new parent and not knowing if his son would survive – a situation that was naturally devastating but he found it hard to reach out for support.   Teddy survived his illness and Iwan now has two energetic boys in his life and is working hard to create great memories for his sons every day. He is also spreading awareness of Group B Strep, and how easy it is to prevent passing it onto a baby through birth.  Huge thanks to Iwan for joining us and sharing his story 

Aaron Dale is an author and the social media content creator behind @raisingboys_2men. A single father raising his two sons, he has helped thousands of parents to think about putting their children first in co-parenting situations.  In this episode, Aaron talks about growing up surrounded by strong female role models, having an absent father, and how this experience showed him how not to be a dad! Although he doesn't live with his children full time, Aaron is a hands on dad to his two sons, who he co-parents with their mum's. This has given him a wealth of experience that make this episode very insightful to parents from all backgrounds. We also delve into mental health and how Aaron sought the support of a therapist, which he believes is something that can help many people parents or not. A huge thanks to Aaron for joining us and sharing his experiences. 

***Trigger Warning*** – In this episode we discuss topics that may be triggering for some listeners, namely miscarriage. If you are affected by any of the subjects in this episode you can find support here. Ortis Deley is a radio DJ, actor and tv presenter, best known as the host of the Gadget Show But his most important job is as a dad to two young children! In this episode, Ortis tells us about waiting until he was 43 to become a dad. He wanted to feel ready for parenthood – but becoming a dad wasn't as easy as he and his wife had hoped. It wasn't until they'd experienced three miscarriages that they were able to find support from a specialist doctor. Families experiencing miscarriage often don't get to talk about it as much as they might need. It is a topic that can be hard to hear and talk about. But Ortis hopes to help other families who have been through, or are going through, the same thing. We also talk about his children with a healthy understanding of how the world will view them because they're black, and ensuring they have the tools to help them navigate this from a young age.  We're so grateful to Ortis for joining us and sharing his experiences. This is a brilliant episode every parent needs to hear. Time Codes 2:05 – "I became a dad at 43… The fear didn't really creep in until we were at home!" - Ortis on becoming a parent. 7:46 – “My dad was the disciplinarian… I have never heard him say I love you, but I know that he does." - Ortis' relationship with his dad. 14:06 – “I am raising kids who will be categorised, classed and hemmed in." - Ortis on raising his children to be aware of the prejudices they may face in life. 18:15 – “My daughter is 6 and my son is 3. It is important my kids are aware they'll be treated differently because of how they look." - How Ortis also educates his children about race. 23:58 – “Trying not to be my dad when it comes to discipline is a lot harder than I thought it would be!" - What Ortis finds difficult about parenting. 26:24 – “Being a parent ain't easy and my wife is always encouraging me to apologise to our children. To let them know that it's OK to make a mistake." - Why apologising to our kids is so important. 36:06 – “Rachel and I had three miscarriages… nothing prepares you for that." - Ortis shares his experience with miscarriage. 40:33 – “A friend told us about a miscarriage specialist… that treatment resulted in Phoenix." - Ortis on the treatment that led to them having their children, 42:38 - "It is healthy to cry, and it is healthy to talk. There wasn't anything bottled up." - How Ortis and his wife have coped with their experiences. 44:30 – "More people should be made aware of its potential... and that there are more ways to help." -why we should talk about miscarriage more. 46:39 - "I also hope that anyone going through it, or has been through it, knows somebody they can share the burden with." - The importance of talking and getting support. 48:37 - "Phoenix brought happiness from the ashes of three miscarriages... Quincey means, number 5, he was our fifth pregnancy!" - The significance of Ortis' children's names. 55:41 – Ortis' dad superpower. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 31 - Rory Crawford Rory Crawford is a CBeebies presenter, a marine conservationist, and also a nature enthusiast. But most of all he is a loving father of 2 children. Rory is doing it all! In this episode we hear how Rory grew up in a family with both his parents, and some brilliant strong male role models around him, and he shares how they shaped him into the man, and father, he is today!  He also talks all about the ridiculous paternity leave system in the UK, why there shouldn't be a bottle vs. breast feeding debate, and the thing that scares Rory most bringing children up in the current climate. This great episode touches on so many important topics – it's one you really don't want to miss.  Huge thanks to Rory for joining us and being a brilliant guest! Time Codes 01:30 – "Everyone's got a podcast now Nigel - but I jumped in and I loved it." - Rory on why he is a fan of the Podcast! 06:50 - “It was a charmed childhood. And kind of old school. My dad worked and mum stayed at home raising us kids.” - Rory talks about his childhood in Glasgow. 07:54 - “My dad worked in health promotion. I grew up wearing t-shirts from his campaigns. Like don't dance with drugs!” - Rory tells us about his dad's job, and his interesting wardrobe as a kid! 13:51 – “My dad is most proud of us being principled people. If we believe in something... we stand up and say something.” - Rory also tells us what his dad is most proud of in his children. 19:56 - "Getting that language has only become more common in the past 10-5 years. To understand trauma and feel ok to talk about it” - Rory on the positive changes happening in talking about mental health. 24:50 – “Going from one to two is more than twice as hard… you don't expect it!” - Rory on the change from having one, to two children, 30:03 – “Some of it is mindset. If you're prepared and calmer... invariably that helps”. - Rory on handling tricky conversations with his kids. 32:56 – “I knew how it felt to be hit and feel scared… It also had some affect in me deciding not to do that.” - Rory tells us why he's strongly against smacking his own kids. 35:08 – "You come in with an impression that breastfeeding is the most natural thing you can do. But it isn't that straightforward.” - Rory tells us why they hybrid fed their first child and the stigma around it. 42:31 – “It is utterly preposterous and it is not enough time. It doesn't recognise the benefits of having two parents around to support and work together.” - Rory on the UK's Paternity Leave. 47:08 – “It can feel like Armageddon… for me that is the big thing that I worry about”. - What worries Rory most about the environmental crisis. 52:51 – “The main thing is to feel passion about it – for children it is inbuilt”. How Rory teaches his kids about the importance of looking after the planet. 57:22 – “The moments I find are golden in parenting are when you see them acting in a way with someone else.” - Rory shares the moments knows he is getting parenting right! 58:40 – Rory's dad superpower. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 30 - Russell Kane This week's guest is one of the UK's top comedians, host of the brilliant podcast Man Baggage, plus he's written an insightful and hilarious book about growing up with a dad like his. Russell Kane grew up with the ultimate alpha male dad who believed in working hard until you die which meant he missed out on some of the joy in life. Russell was completely different to his dad, which lead to quite the childhood. He learned from a young age that anger was a normal reaction to anything going wrong. As he got older he struggled to control his anger and began putting himself in danger when he lashed out. He realised this was no way to live and that he needed to make a change. So he did, using an intense and intriguing technique called the Hoffman process. Russell didn't and doesn't want to be like his dad but as he discusses this makes for difficult situations. This story is one that every parent (let alone man) needs to hear. Cheers Russ thanks for joining us

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 29 - Abdul Bangura. ***Trigger Warning*** – This episode contains topics that may be triggering for some listeners. Namely birth trauma, grief, and custody battles. This week's guest has built two successful businesses in his lifetime, is a proud single dad, and is here to share his parenting experience with us!  Abdul always wanted to be a dad when the time was right. But when it happened at 29 he wasn't ready. But with support from his dad, he stepped up and was a part of the pregnancy. This is only the beginning of his story, Abdul went through and incredible introduction to fatherhood which saw his life changed by the covid pandemic. He also had to fight a custody battle to be guardian for his own daughter and on top of that he also lost his business and sunk into deep depression – before deciding to get help and turning things around. Abdul's story is so inspirational. He's living proof that asking for help with mental health is a good thing and we are so glad Abdul shared his story with us. Time Codes 2:13 – “My dad is one of 17…!” - Abdul grew up in a big blended family that made him want to be a dad one day. 6:39 – “I wasn't ready… I was pi**ed.” – Abdul's reaction to finding out he was going to be a dad. 12:15 – “My dad told me ‘what makes you think you can leave your child'… he was right”. – The conversation with Abdul's father that made him realise he had to step up. 18:19 – “It went from ‘it might be a chest infection' to ‘she needs an emergency caesarian'.” – His daughter's mum was the first pregnant woman in the UK to be diagnosed with Covid-19. 21:44 – “I wasn't allowed in because of corona”. – Abdul's daughter was born five weeks early. 23:47 – “I was a zombie”– Abdul on grieving for his daughter's mother and being a new dad. 26:56 – “Social services said ‘we can't let the child go home with you' We took it to court”. – Abdul fight for custody of his own daughter. 37:45 – “A mum wouldn't have gone through that”. – The unfairness of the family court system for dads. 41:21 – “I felt like I could do more for her welfare – so I did”. – What pushed Abdul onto fight for custody of his daughter. 44:51 – “I was in the deepest state of depression… and I have a screaming baby” – Abdul was adjusting to single parenting while battling his mental health.   48:37 – “If you don't go out and provide your child won't eat, that was my lightbulb moment”. – Abdul had a new business idea to provide for his child. 56:00 – “Put your pride to the side and talk to someone”. – Abdul sought help for his mental health.

Dadvengers podcast episode 28 - Liv Thorne aka Livsalone. The guest in this episode is an inspirational mum. Having always wanted to be a parent, she didn't have one ingredient she needed to make that happen - someone to be the dad. Liv had been joking about using a sperm donor since her 20's. Then at 38, she stopped joking added "sperm to pram" online and started her journey. Liv's open with her son, and everyone else, about Herb's dad being a donor. She doesn't shy away from conversations around Herb's parentage and she has a village of people to support her and her son. Including a small army of great male role models for Herb. Listen out for Liv's opinions on support for dad's - and why she's a Dadvengers supporter. As a solo mum hearing her thoughts on this is fascinating and one not to miss. We can't thank Liv enough for joining us and sharing her story.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 27 - Joe Wicks Today's guest is a household name, who shot into the limelight when he started PE with Joe during the Covid pandemic. He is also a best selling author, has had over 1 million views online, and has received an MBE! But his favourite job is being a dad. During filming of his recent documentary Joe discovered he was using his phone and social media to excess and at times found it took over his life. It also negatively impacted Joe's parenting and he has found himself snapping at his kids when spending too much time on his phone. Since finding out, Joe is learning to put his phone away and be present with his kids. He's changed how he uses social media so that he can still help people, but also be there for his children mentally and physically. Joe's a work in progress like all of us. Using his experiences to support other parents, and improve his parenting skills. We're so pleased he shared his story with us. Time Codes 1:58 - “I have 2 under 4 and one on the way – they're nutters!”. – Joe on his kids and whether three is going to be enough! 4:31 – “I'm a naturally impatient person”. – What Joe found most difficult about becoming a dad. 7:52 – “There are days when I am quite flat, and I am quite switched off”. – Joe's not always the really bouncy person we see on screen!  9:37 – “All of my self-worth was based on how many people I helped”. – How Joe has learnt to balance being there for his fans and being present with his family, and managing his mental health. 12:40 – “My dad was a heroin addict and mum had severe OCD”. – Joe's relationship with his parents growing up. 19:25 – “I've got a whatsapp group and it's all dads – it's amazing”. – Joe on the importance of dads having a good support network. 21:07 – “I was really angry. I could see him relapsing and the instability was hard”. – Joe's relationship with his dad growing up. 23:05 – “I'm more present… before I was shooting videos and taking pictures all the time”. – Joe on his favourite things he does with his kids and being present. 25:16 – “A lot of people have guilt about taking time for themselves. They won't get the best side of you if you're unhappy”. – Why parents should prioritise their own needs. 29:21 – “Social media, body dysmorphia, mental health – it should all be talked about at school”. – Joe's biggest worries as a parent and what needs to change to support our kids as they grow up in a digital world. 35:20 – “I've used social media in a positive way… I'm trying to snap out of scrolling aimlessly”. – How Joe uses social media now. 40:33 – We ask Joe your questions and hear his Dad Superpower!

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 26 - Krept This week's guest is a massive name in the UK hip-hop scene, host of the BBC show The Rap Game UK, star of the BBC documentary "This Is England", and creator of a baby skincare range! Krept became a dad just two years ago, and Nala is the center of his world! He makes life work around her. She has taught him that he can put family and relationships first and still be successful. He and Nala's mum separated, and they co-parent Nala. His main philosophy for making this work is no matter what happens, you put the kids first!  He is also grieving the recent death of his uncle - the main male role model in his life. This loss has created new sense of responsibility for Krept. Something we think a lot of dads will relate to.  Krept is another great example of what we think a Dadvenger should be, and we loved hearing his story

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 25 - Troy Deeney This week's guest is the straight talking Troy. He's a footballer, dad of 4 and an activist changing how black history is taught in school. Troy witnessed domestic abuse as a child, and that shaped him as he grew into an adult and became a parent. Troy never thought he would need therapy, but after getting into trouble with the police he realised he needed to talk about, and deal with, his past traumas. He tells us how therapy has helped him be a better parent and how he uses his experiences to help others. Troy is a great example of a Dadvenger and we're so pleased he shared his story with us! Time Codes 2:03 – Troy tells us about his upbringing and his generally happy childhood. 6:06 – “There's an element of shame in talking about it”. Troy on witnessing domestic violence and why he is opening up about it. 11:38 – “I was drinking a lot… I got into trouble” Life changed and Troy ended up in prison. 14:29 – Troy tells us when, and why, he decided to get into therapy. - "My friend saw I was carrying something and made me promise to get help" 19:07 – “The beauty is in failing… it makes you a better parent.” - The positives of dealing with past traumas. 22:52 – “I wasn't allowed to cry.... the first thing my dad said was ‘Did you cry'.” – Troy talks about the importance of being allowed to show emotions. 28:26 – “I was working at 11… I got in trouble at school for leaving to pick up my brother and sister." Troy tells us how he helped support his family from a young age. 32:58 – “I was 19 when I had my first son… I have become a better dad over the last three years.”. Troy on becoming a parent and learning to be emotionally present.   36:35 – “Domestic abuse went up by 68%... it might help someone”, Troy discusses why he wrote his book.- 39:47 – Troy talks about why he is so invested in education for himself and his kids. 43:11 – “You've got to enable young children to see, hear and feel what they can achieve.” Troy talks about the importance of teaching black history. 46:37 – Troy talks about his new project for changing how our children learn. 49:12 – “We're in a privileged position”. Find out about Troy's documentary, and why he is using his position as a platform for change. 55:55 – We ask your questions and learn Troy's parent superpower! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 24 - Ben Anderson (@thediaryofadad) **TRIGGER WARNING*** This week's episode talks about subjects that may be triggering to some listeners. Namely, premature birth and baby loss. If you are affected by any of the subjects in this episode you can find support here. This week's guest is a businessman, a huge name in the online parenting world, and a brilliant hands on dad who shares family life on his Instagram TheDiaryOfADad. One huge part of his parenting life that Ben shared was his experience of baby loss. He and his wife sadly lost their twins who were born at 22 weeks, and Ben talks openly about his experience, the impact on him emotionally, and navigating grief with three young children at home. We are so thankful to Ben for joining us and being so candid. Ben - you're a true example of a Dadvenger, welcome to the community. Time Codes 3:51 – Ben tell us about his work and the impacts of the lockdowns. - “It became a challenge when we were back to work with multiple children!”  7:22 – We delve into Ben's large family and whether this was always in his plans. “Absolutely not... I business was the priority... then we fell pregnant!”  9:32 – “Nothing can prepare you for the act of changing a nappy for the first time!”. Ben on adjusting to being a dad and the times he felt overwhelmed by new fatherhood. 12:28 – Ben on his relationship with his own father. “My early memories are that my dad would be there... he was very hands-on and we had that connection”  17:38 - “It is 2022 and we are still having this conversation!”. Ben on how he approaches issues around race and unconscious bias with his children. 29:00 – Ben on deciding to have a large family, and how having children changed his focus. “My family was the grounding force for me”  35:51 – Ben opens up about his experience of twin pregnancy - “I remember a turning point at 21 weeks... she was in labour... I was hanging onto hope”  43:12 – “I want people to know what we're going through... the love and support was just insane, I saw social media at it's very best” - Why Ben decided to share the experience in real time on Instagram in real time. 46:20 – Ben shares the impact of losing his children at 22 weeks, and the effect on other pregnancies. “Once you've gone through that loss those things are always going to be there in your head." 51:30 – “Everyone grieves differently” Ben openly talks about the grief he experienced, and how he managed this while parenting their three other children. 1:01:28 – Ben tells us about the support from other dads who have experienced baby loss, and how he uses his experience to support other dads in the same situation now and reminds us why you can't always believe what you see on social media.  01:10:40 – Ben answers your questions!  01:19:54 - Parenting Superpower!  Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 23 - Alex Winters This week we have the brilliant Alex Winters joining us to talk all about his parenting journey. Alex has been an actor in theatre, Panto and TV, as well as a TV presenter on Cbeebies. He is a dad of three (we won't mention him getting the youngest's age wrong

It's Dadvengers Podcast Episode 22 - Simon Hooper, AKA Father of Daughters. This weeks guests describes himself as outnumbered by girls - and as a dad of 4 daughters, we believe him! Simon is also an influencer, a fundraiser, and a mental health advocate - he's smashing it all! We chat all about Simon's great relationship with his own dad, his mental health and how he uses Instagram as an outlet when he needs to chat, and how he parents 4 very different children! We also delve into Simon's daughter's diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes and the impact this had on all their lives. Huge thanks to Simon for joining us - welcome to the Dadvengers crew! Time Codes 1:26 - Simon tells us about being a dad of four girls - and the difference from number one, to number four... "I feel like the twins get a rougher deal... as long as everyone's smiling you're doing a good job" 3:24 - "Social media is not necessarily real life..." - Simon delves into why he started his Instagram page to show the real side of life and parenting. 5:07 - We chat about becoming a dad at 23; and the up's, down's, and surprises of parenting! 7:38 - "I left my wife in a basement flat in London... with a baby who was 5 weeks old... and I was having a good time" - we talk taking a secondment with work and being away from his family. 12:16 - "Girls aren't that much different to boys - they're as messy, as stressy, as complicated!" - Simon tells us how he bonded with his daughters and what it's like parenting girls! 14:40 - Simon tell us about his parents - "My dad is an inspirational role model..." 16:02 - "I thought my dad was going to punch me..." - Simon on his fear of telling his parents he was going to be a dad, and the great traits he has inherited from him! 20:53 - "She was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes". Simon opens up about his daughter being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and life changes this has led to. 24:55 - We chat about the impact of his daughter's diabetes on him as a parent - "I hadn't acknowledged how it impacted me as a parent... I broke and was crying about it" 29:58 - Simon on how he has made changes in his life, looks after his own mental health and has found his own outlets for looking after his mental wellbeing. 35:20 - Simon answers your questions! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are back and kicking off season three with the brilliant Patrick Hutchinson. Patrick is a father of four, grandfather of four and fitness enthusiast. He is most well-known as an equal rights activist, and the image of him carrying and anti-Black Lives Matter protestor to safety during the protests in 2020, arguably made him one of the most recognised activists on the planet. We chat about how his parenting has changed over the years, the impact growing up without a dad had on him, and of course we talk about the BLM protests. This is an unmissable opening episode for season three! 3:03 – Patrick talks about his transition to fatherhood at a young age - "It didn't matter how hard it was going to be... I was going to be there". 4:16 - Growing up without a father, and the impact that had on Patrick as a young boy, and the male role models he did have. 8:49 - "My first encounter of racism was probably around the age of 9" - Patrick on experiencing racism from a young age. 11:03 - Patrick shares his experiences of teaching his children about racism and discrimination. 14:37 - The Black Lives Matter protests of 2020 - Patrick tells us what happened the day the viral photograph was taken. And how his life changed completely. "I didn't want to stand by and watch something happen that I would regret" 19:20 - "I've never heard from him... something tells me our paths will cross one day" - Patrick explains how he has never heard from the anti-BLM protestor he rescued, but he has hope that they will cross paths one day.  20:50 - How the BLM protest changed not just Patrick's life, but the lives of his family too. And how he still tries to be hands on as much as possible. 23:57 - "It's really affected my 10 year old..." - The impact of the lockdowns and the social media generation on Patrick's youngest children and how he manages their time online. 28:34 - "Times have changed..." - Patrick on how his parenting has changed from his older children to his youngest daughters. 33:44 - Patrick on his work with underprivileged children, and how he relates to them and earns their respect - "I've used my parenting skills and... what I do is authentic to me". 36:06 - Patrick answers your questions! 44:30 - Patricks parenting superpower! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the final episode of Season 2, and in this episode we chat with the brilliant Matt Edmondson. A well known Radio 1 Dj, Matt is a father of one, with baby number two on the way! We delve into Matt's parenting journey, and how this was something he wasn't sure he wanted for a long time. Matt also talks about his upbringing, the difficulties in his relationship with his father, and we hear the sad story of how his father's Bipolar condition lead to him taking his own life. As you can imagine this had a huge impact and lead to him seeking support for his own mental wellbeing. Matt is a great advocate for the importance of reaching out for support when needed and hearing about his experiences is something everyone needs to tune into! Thanks Matt, and welcome to the Dadvengers crew! The Dadvengers Podcast will return for Season 3 in 2022!!! Time Codes 2:54 - "It's been a bit weird having her go to school..." - Matt tells us about how he is feeling now his daughter started school. 4:10 - Matt's journey to parenthood; how he didn't have the "epiphany" moment that some parents describe. And how the joy of parenthood kicked in as his daughter became more interactive! 9:25 - "For me, it was more the sense of... 'Argh I'm a dad; that label... did that age me?!" - Matt on how he adjusted to being a dad, and a friends pregnancy story that keeps him up at night! 13:07 - "She is due in January... this time, we haven't done anything!" - Matt on the impending birth of his second child. 15:35 - Matt delves into his own childhood and upbringing... "Rules weren't really a thing!... It was very freeing." 18:55 - "My dad was an alcoholic... he had bipolar... he sadly took his own life when I was 20" - Matt's relationship with his dad growing up. 26:37 - Matt shares the fears he had before becoming a parent, the impact of the structure children bring, and the ways his relationship with his own dad shaped him as a parent. 30:39 - "There is a sadness, but there is also a sort of hatred... I was filled with an anger towards him" - Matt talks about the impact of losing his father to suicide. 33:00 - Matt opens up about his own mental health journey, and being diagnosed with Cyclothymia - a relative to bipolar disorder. - "Just the knowledge that there was a thing I had was so relieving" 37:02 - "I didn't want to open up that box of trauma, but it is so worth opening" - Matt on accessing therapy. 46:32 - How Matt is a great playmate for his daughter Ivy - and how they designed a family board game together over lockdown. 54:54 - How Matt is getting into music production, and has produced an album over lockdown! 1:01:48 Parenting Superpower!  Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 19 - Elliott Rae. This weeks' guest is the founder of Music Football Fatherhood an organisation like Dadvengers with an agenda to support dads. He's an advocate for getting dads talking, plus he's an author, and dad to a young daughter. Elliot talks about growing up in London with his parents who had emigrated from the Caribbean. We hear how his how his dad was a strict parent, but he was also fair and supportive! And he also opened up about the difficult birth of his daughter and first few months of her life. Time Codes 1:41 - Elliott tells us about his parents and growing up in London with parents who had emigrated from the Caribbean. 5:22 - "Hard work and manners were non-negotiable." - Elliott on his dad as a parent. 10:03 - "They pulled out a gun and put it to my head... that moment shaped me." - Elliott on experiencing racism and being in dangerous situations throughout his teenage years. 15:20 - Elliott on dealing with these experiences - "It was a motivation... I need to prove to people I'm going to make something of myself" 18:42 - Elliott on becoming a dad and his daughters traumatic birth. - "She was grey, not breathing - she was barely alive. and my wife was losing a lot of blood" 22:53 - "As soon as the baby is born, you're a dad.... I felt completely helpless." - Elliott on his daughter being taken to intensive care, and making the awful choice of being with his baby or his incredibly sick wife.  27:26 - After two weeks, Elliott's daughter developed a lump on her head that needed urgent medical review. - "We prayed and cried for hours..." 35:18 - Elliott on his daughter having a severe allergic reaction at just months old - and the impact of this on him. "It all came back, I was having flashbacks, I was emotional..." 38:30 - "Never did I think about getting help and talking to someone" - Elliott talks about his post birth trauma and how he didn't get help for a long time. 41:05 - How Music Football Fatherhood started as a blog, and has grown into the support network it is now! 43:10 - "Within two hours it was on the website, and the next day it was the second most viewed article" - How Elliott went viral with a blogpost about black fathers. 45:52 - Parenting Superpower. Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 18 - Anna Williamson and Alex Di Pasquale. In this episode we talk to podcaster, TV-presenter, therapist and Nigel's friend, Anna Williamson and her better half Alex Di Pasquale. Anna and Alex tell us all about their relationships, childhoods, and the different experiences of having both their children. With their first born, Anna had a traumatic birth and experienced ill-mental health during the pregnancy and after the birth. Then with baby number two, Alex found the adjustment really difficult and needed to ask for some support. They both talk candidly about this subject, and tell us about the impact it had on them mentally and on their relationship. Alex even mentions how he would have loved to have something like Dadvengers when he was going through hard times. Time Codes 3:32 - "You're starting to lose it" - Anna and Alex talk about how they pick up on the small signs in each other! 5:19 - How Anna and Alex's relationship was impacted in the early days, which brought them closer together. "Our foundations of our relationship are based on grief". 8:00 - Alex's upbringing and childhood, from being born in Sicily, moving to the UK at age 4 and being "the only Italians in the village". 10:43 - Anna chats about her upbringing and family, and how her parents have been married for "donkey's years". 13:22 - "I cannot wait... he would barge in and let loose." Anna and Alex talk to us about their dad's and we learn a lot about Alex's dad's morning routine! 15:41 - "When you don't feel comfortable... be in your own world" - Alex on how his dad would talk to him about mental health. 20:48 - Anna and Alex discuss the pregnancy and traumatic birth of their first child Enzo. "I made a promise to Enzo... if it's just me and you I will be the best dad I can."  25:30 - Alex on the loneliness of being primary carer to Enzo, and the lack of support for dads. "There wasn't a platform for dads..." 31:09 - "There is a stigma attached to it." Alex on why reaching out for support as a dad was hard and his advice on how to change that. 32:58 - Anna and Alex open up about how Alex's struggles with their second baby Eleanora, and how he reached boiling point before talking about it. 40:15 - "When Alex told me he was struggling, it was a weight off my mind." - Anna on how she supported Alex through the difficult period. 48:29 - How Anna and Alex have started talking to their kids about their feelings. And how they're preparing their kids to managing their mental health as adults. 52:22 - How do Anna and Alex think we can encourage men to open up, to their partners, and to feel welcome in parenting groups. 60:50 - Parenting Superpowers!  Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning - This weeks episode covers topics such as suicide attempts, child loss and child abuse. Listener discretion is advised. If you are affected by any of the topics in this podcast please visit https://dadvengers.com/getting-help/ to find support services.  Dadvengers podcast episode 17 - Gary Anderson. This weeks guest is a father, mental health advocate, counsellor and survivor. Gary has led an incredible life that has been impacted by abuse, mental health issues, and baby loss.  Against all odds, Gary has turned his life around. He is a survivor and uses his experiences and specialist training to provide counselling to men, and young people struggling with their own lives.  Gary's story is one of survival, and he says it himself “Never give up until your time's up”.  Gary is an inspiration, and and amazing man. We can't thank him enough for joining us.  Time Codes 6:23 - "There was no love." - Gary opens up about how his father was physically and emotionally abusive and the impact this had on his mental health. 12:30 - Gary talks about the incident that led to him running away from home at 2am in the middle of winter. - "I took some cake out the cupboard and started walking." 15:18 - We discuss the sexual assaults Gary experienced as a child, how he survived these awful situations. 20:32 - "I changed then... I was constantly on self-destruct." - Gary tells us about his home life changing again with no warning, and how this led him to using alcohol to cope. 26:06 - At 16, Gary attempted suicide for the first time. - "I didn't give a stuff about myself, I just didn't care." 29:25- "She saved my life, she is my angel." Gary on meeting his wife, Michelle, and how she helped him turn his life around. 32:16 - "It destroyed me." - Gary starts his journey in therapy and dealing with his mental health.  35:16 - Gary tells us about Michelle becoming pregnant with twin girls, quickly finding out there were serious complications with the pregnancy. 38:42 - Gary discusses the unimaginable loss of their twin girls. Gary blamed himself for the loss, and how after 14 years, he wrote a book about his "Two Bears". 43:38 - "We can sit in pubs and talk about football. But we are still not talking about mental health." - Gary discusses how his book is a tool for talking, and how does everything for his two bears. 51:35 - Gary on becoming a parent again and coping with being a dad after losing the twins. "I have overprotected her." 54:24 - Gary delves into how he parents after the lack of positive male role model in his childhood. 56:20 - Gary tells us the importance of having a community around you as a parent to do the best we can for our kids now. 1:00:11 - "It's about asking for help." - Gary's advice to dad's struggling with fatherhood, and how he got into being a counsellor. 1:05:02 - Parenting Superpower.  Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 16 - Stu Oakley (SomeFamilies Podcast) This weeks guest is dad to three children, one half of the award winning podcast 'Some Families' and an amazing advocate for equal parenting.  Stu talks about all things parenthood, from the overloaded adoption system and how that affects the children in it, to the impact of gendered language on all parents. Host Nigel also delved into therapeutic parenting - what it means, and how it's different it is in reality to the training! The pair also talked about the mental health impact of the lockdowns on Stu and his family, and how they worked as a team to overcome those issues.  Time Codes 2:16 - "I was going to be a dad one day... I pictured that growing up" Stu on how he always knew he wanted to be a dad, and his three children. 07:29 - Stu's advise for people looking at the different routes to become a family. - "You've just got to feel what's right for you" 09:57 - "We got an email saying there was another sibling." We delve into how Stu's third child was a welcome surprise addition to their family. 12:16 - "We were really angry... He'd spent two weeks in hospital completely on his own." - Stu and his husband found out their kids baby sibling had been in care for 5 month due to a human error in an overworked system. 17:09 - "Jon is very patient... I am more impulsive." - Stu tells us about the impact of having kids on his relationship with his husband Jon - and their parenting styles 20:39 - Talking about Stu's childhood and how his dad is a great role model.  26:00 - "I felt like I was doing a bad job at work and a bad job parenting..." - Stu opens up about how difficult the lockdowns were for him and how he looks after his mental health. 30:13 - Stu on how everyone needs to find someone to talk, and how we all need to learn to ask for support. 34:43 - "Having an outlet where you can speak to other parents is so important." - Stu on how important it is to have a good parenting network around you. 38:09 - Stu tells us all about therapeutic parenting. How important this is, and why it can put a lot of pressure on parents. 42:48 - "The language we use around parenting is so un-inclusive sometimes." Stu chats about the hyper-gendered language around parenting. 51:46 - Parenting Superpower!  Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 15 - Amos Hurst & Sophia May. At 85 years young and a father to 7 children, we think Amos is our wisest Dadvenger yet! He has led an incredible life, and we were so lucky to have him share it with us on this episode. We chatted about Amos' upbringing in Jamaica as one of 10 siblings and he told us about his parents. He also delved into being a father to 7 children, how he was as a parent and the values he brought his children up to believe in. All that said, the most heartfelt part of this episode is hearing Amos open up about his battle with cancer, the treatment he received and the huge mental impact this had on him. An inspirational man and an inspirational Dadvengers Podcast episode Time Codes 01:27 - Amos on growing up as one of 10 siblings in Jamaica and and how his dad was a strict parent - “He was very serious with us, to keep us out of trouble” 05:34 – Amos on what led him to emigrate to the UK in his early 20's. 07:49 – “It was difficult… I didn't get the chance to take a telephone… only letters” Amos delves into leaving his young family in Jamaica, how difficult it was for them and why he never returned. 12:17 – Amos talks about his 7 children and the type of parent he was to them growing up… “I was partly strict… I'd give them the poison look!” 14:41 – “I loved them too much” - why Amos parented his children differently to his own upbringing. 16:28 – Amos' talks about his experiences of racism in the UK at work, and in trying to find a home of his own. 24:21 – “It was meant to be for 6 weeks, then they discovered I had another cancer” – Amos on his cancer diagnosis, treatment, and how he overcame the disease. 30:25 – Amos opens up about the mental impact of cancer, and what scared him the most. “I want to see them throughout their lives” 34:45 – “My pay isn't money – it is the satisfaction I get” - Amos' on his career in youth work in London, and Somerset, and how rewarding it is. 41:15 – Sophia May joins the episode and tells us her take on how strict her dad was - “I was laughing away… we ignored the poison look all along”! 44:10 – Sophia delves into how her parents talked to her about race growing up – “They led by example. This is why I do what I do” 46:37 – Sophia and Amos' tell us about their work with fathers, and men, around mental health. Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 14 - John Lashley (@Brooklynbrownieco) Our guest this episode is not only a mental health advocate and a full time dad to Leo, but he is also a brownie baking wizard! John has had a remarkable life and we chatted about his hugely varied career - from becoming a professional Mr T impersonator, to being a graphic designer, to now running the incredible Brooklyn Brownie Co. We also delved into his move to the UK and his experiences of racism in the US - including being held at gunpoint by police and why he doesn't visit there anymore.  If that wasn't enough we also hear about John's struggles with mental health after the tragic loss of Leo's mum. Time Code 01:35 - "I got my chains on, got my overalls on... and I went as Mr T!" - John on becoming a Mr T impersonator, and ending up on Britain's Got Talent! 05:27 - John's road to becoming a parent to Leo. - "I thought I was a failure and blamed myself" 08:56 - "There wasn't much support and it was all about 'Man Up'..." - John on learning to talk and support the men around him to open up too. 12:24 - "I've been held at gunpoint 9 times... 5 by police" - John's experiences of racism in the US and why he doesn't visit New York anymore. 16:41 - John's relationship with his "pops", and how this has shaped him as a parent. 18:36 - "I was lucky enough to go to art high-school - it was like Fame"! - John's education and how he let his mum down by choosing graphic design! 21:22 - John on his and his partner's parenting style, and how they balance their differences! 24:21 - "She passed on the end of July 2019" - John opens up about Leo's mum's death. 30:27 - How John told his son about his mother's death. and Leo's reaction - "Find a place you'll never go to again and tell him there". 33:54 - How the Brooklyn Brownie Co started and how its grown into the massive success it is today! 41:40 - "There is no pause... know you will get through it" - John's advice on navigating grief. 43:44 - John's view on the importance of parenting, and being a parental unit with his partner. 46:43 - John is joined by Leo and we talk about balancing work and school, what his mates think about the Brooklyn Brownie Co and his future plans! 50:30 - John's parenting Superpower 51:49 - Leo's Superpower Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 13 - Sergei Urban aka The Dad Lab Sergei is a YouTube legend! He amassed over a billion views, after he turned his hobby of science experiments with his children into a fill time job! He is working hard to share educational toys and science experiments with kids all over the world. We love his videos and in this episode we find out a bit more about his humble beginnings in Latvia. We welcome TheDadLab into the Dadvengers fold. Time Codes 01:38 - Sergei chats all things Dad Lab - how it started with educational toys and how it became the viral sensation it is now! 05:40 - "I'm doing all the hard work, but no-one see me!!" - How Sergei's kids feel about the science experiments and them being recognised as the stars of the show! 07:53 - "A lot of children and parents are different" Sergei's hope that his channel can reach all parents and children no matter their interests. 09:31 - Sergei talks about his sons, how they share a birthday and how different they are! "My youngest is really into science... my older one loves books!" 11:48 - "Every parent.. whatever advise you get, learns from their own mistakes" - how he has learnt to parent two very different children! 13:06 - "I couldn't do breast feeding... but everything else!" - Sergei delves into how he became a hands on parent straight away, and how working from home helped him in parenting from day one! 15:26 - Sergei tells us the differences in his upbringing in Latvia, and his children growing up in the UK. 16:21 - "I was about 7... I remember making building blocks" - How Sergei was making building blocks for their family build from a young age. 18:48 - How Sergei balanced school and building, and how it has made him pursue his science life... "I wasn't the best at school, but I was the best house builder there"! 20:22 - Sergei tells us the things he did, and didn't, bring from his own upbringing into his parenting. 22:34 - We dive into how Sergei manages his online presence, and how the Dad Lab went viral - and writing his book. 33:26 - Parenting Superpower. Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 12 - Dr Amit Patel (@Blinddad_uk) Disability rights activist, doctor and author Dr Amit talks openly about losing his sight, adapting to life with a disability and becoming a father.  He also talks about the discrimination he's faced, life with his guide dog - and funny parenting moments! Amit is a regular on the live Dadvengers Dad Chats and it was lovely to hear his story. A real advocate for diversity and inclusion. Time Codes 2:37 - Dr Amit on his children, the differences in his son and daughter and the impact of the pandemic. 3:07 - Dr Amit explains how he lost his sight almost overnight, just one year into his marriage. 06:53 - "I had to rely on others, and that was the hard part for me" - the emotional impact of losing his sight. 11:30 - How Dr Amit's wife helped him to pick up the pieces and move forward "When you're ready to move forward I am here for you" 14:54 - "That is the type of parent I want to be" Dr Amit's relationship with his father, growing up and now. 16:09 - Dr Amit on finding out he was going to be a parent and how invovled he wanted to be. 19:33 - "To the left Amit, to the left!" the funny side of being a blind and dad coping with accidents in the bath!  22:42 - "When her harness goes on, she is in work mode" - life with Kika the guide dog. 25:28 - "Anoushka's safe space is Kika's bed" - Dr Amit's children's relationship with Kika. 26:47 - Dr Amit talks about growing up in the UK with his parents after they emigrated from Mumbai. 29:10 - “I didn't realise blind people could have kids... I gave him the full birds and the bees" – the misconceptions and discrimination Dr Amit has experienced as a blind man. 35:32 - Dr Amit's work with the Vision Foundation - working on employment for vision impaired people. 38:03 - "it was hard to think about the bad times" - Dr Amit on writing his book. 39:26 - Parenting Superpower Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 11 - Matt Willis Staple of the 00's music scene, actor, presenter and dad of three Matt Willis talks openly about being a stay at home dad, the time and relationships he had with his own parents, balancing work and parenting - and becoming a vaccine volunteer! He also talks about struggling with the lockdowns and the impact this had on his mental and emotional health. A subject that has come up on the Dadvengers Dad Chats a couple times. Time Codes 01:34 - "The only thing I ever really want to be in my life was a dad" Matt tells us how he feels about fatherhood. 03:04 - How Matt adjusted to becoming a stay at home parent, and shares the best parenting advice he ever got. 6:46 - Matt talks about his relationships with his own parents, and the amazing role model his father in law is. 08:50 - "My dad, definitely - he was a hero to me" Matt tells us who his role models were growing up, and how important the time had with his father was - no matter how short. 12:57 - Matt tells us how he manages working away from home, and the impact that can have on his children. 15:34 - "We have a phone jail!" How Matt and his family ensure they don't spent too much time on their phones and social media! 19:14 - Matt tells us what he was like as a child, and the differences between him and his children at school. 22:53 - "Hard work beats talent if talent doesn't work hard" Matt tells us how his children have inherited his love of performing, and how he instills the importance of hard work in his children. 25:23 - Matt talks about his relationship with his siblings, and the sibling relationship his kids have. 27:51 - "I thought I was the strict one..." Matt's parenting style! 31:48 - The impact of lockdown on Matt and his family - and why it is so important that we talk about our mental health and wellbeing. 37:35 - Matt tells us how, and why, he and his wife Emma have become vaccine volunteers; 42:02 - Matt's parenting superpower, and Emma pops up... literally!  Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 10 - Jamie Beaglehole (@daddyanddad) For the last episode of the first season, Father, award winning blogger, influencer and Dad Chats regular Jamie Beaglehole talks to Dadvengers about the adoption process, starting a fast growing and award winning parenting blog, and the importance of continuing the work for equal rights for members of the LGBTQ+ community.   Time Codes 2:37 - Jamie on the adoption journey... "it needs to be complex... adoption isn't easy" 6:00 - The adoption assessment process. 9:13 - "Hi Lyle, I'm daddy" - Jamie talks about meeting his sons for the first time. 11:47 - Jamie discusses the adoption matching process. 15:28 - The boys moving in, and the impact of adoption on Jamie and Tom's relationship. 21:16 - Jamie explains the stages of adoption, from training to final adoption order.   25:37 - Jamie explains the reason for starting the blog and how quickly it grew. 29:00 - How Jamie manages his sons safety online. 30:30 - Jamie's childhood, his relationship with his father, and coming out to his family. 36:13 - The adversities Jamie has experienced as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and how he deals with that. 37:32 - "I grew up in an era which was extremely dark for gay people" - Growing up in the 80's and 90's as a gay man. 41:41 - Parenting Superpower  Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 09 - Nush Cope TV presenter, host and podcast creator Nush Cope is the first Dadvengers mum on the podcast. Nush talks about becoming a new mum through the pandemic, her experience with prenatal depression and having a home birth. She talks about the inequality of the paternity / maternity leave system and how she is finding herself again after having a baby.  Time Codes 3:17 - How Nush has found becoming a mum to Shaka... "I'm learning to see life through his eyes" 5:14 - The impact on Nush and her partner's relationship, and how they're making it work. 8:12 - Going back to work after having a baby - and experiencing "the parent guilt". 10:20 - "What's wrong with me..." finding support for a difficult first trimester and prenatal depression. 16:10 - The importance of Mr M being around throughout the rest of her pregnancy, and the birth. 18:08 - Nush talks about communication in relationship, parenting and with her own parents. 24:30 - The challenges Nush faced in having her pregnancy and having her son throughout the coronavirus. 26:28 - Opting for a home birth and the experience of that for Nush and Mr M. 28:00 - "Why can't there be a system where you decide as a couple..." the issues with the paternity and maternity leave system. 33:00 - Becoming a mum for the first time - "I don't know who I am anymore" 35:31 - How Nush and Mr M's childhoods and role models shaped them as parents and what they will use in their parenting journey. 39:17 - Parenting superpower Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 08 - Ashley John-Baptiste BBC journalist, Royal Television Society Ambassador and graduate of Cambridge University Ashley John-Baptiste talks about becoming a dad in the first UK lockdown. He also talks about being brought up in the UK care system between foster care and a children's home. Finally he touches upon the adversities he faced, the lasting impact they've have and how scared he was to become a new dad. Something we have spoken about frequently on Dadvengers Dad Chats. Time Codes 1:21 – Having a baby in lockdown under strict restrictions for partners in hospital, “We didn't know the deal of what I could do as a dad” 4:39 – “I put on one sock…” Ashley on how he reacted to the news his wife was going into labour. 7:18 – Preparing for fatherhood and labour. 9:06 – Ashley on growing up in foster care – “I had a void in terms of family…” 14:12 – “I will never forget the moment of being called a mistake” – the brutal moments that shaped Ashley, and the remaining vulnerability from his upbringing. 18:56 – Ashley's relationship with his partner Joanna and her family. 22:36 - "I love it, but its been hard" Ashley talks about the challenges of being a new parent. 25:13 - The importance of being, and having positive mentors and role models while in care. 29:55 - "In communities we need mentors..." Ashley on talking to children in care and being a positive role model. 32:18 - Ashley's advice to new dads. 34:17 - Music, athletics and creativity - the things that Ashley liked as a child, and whether that is being passed onto his daughter. 36:56 - Dad superpower. Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 07 - Paul Brunson Entrepreneur, TV presenter and one of the worlds most influential match makers Paul Brunson talks to Nigel about his path to parenthood, how he makes his marriage work and the positive side of being vulnerable. Plus, he talked openly about his journey through IVF. It's refreshing to hear a father talking candidly and positively about a subject that makes some men doubt their manhood. And of course no conversation with Paul would be complete without touching on matchmaking! We even had Paul scratching his head with a few Dadvengers questions he wasn't expecting in this fascinating conversation!  Time Codes 3:58 - About Paul's two sons, Liam & Kingston. 5:40 - The path to parenthood through IVF. 10:50 - "I'll give you my heart, you can either caress it or crush it" The importance of being venerable in relationships. 12:30 - Paul opens up about his childhood and the importance of attachment styles. 16:12 - Homeschooling Liam and Kingston - getting fired as the PE teacher and the games Paul's sons love to play. 20:08 - Paul's podcast - BETTER WITH PAUL.  22:22 - Paul's talks about his dad, how he was a role model through Paul's childhood, and how he uses that in his own parenting. 28:20 - The power of affirmations. 31:00 - How Paul went from managing peoples finances to managing their love lives! 33:34 - Paul's marriage, getting his anniversary wrong and the importance of relationship counselling.  37:00 - Advice to parents struggling in relationship. 40:43 - Parenting Superpower.  Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 06 - Harry Gregory (aka White Yardie) Comedian, internet sensation and social media star Harry Gregory, AKA White Yardie talks to us about parenting a teenager and a toddler, how his children help each other – and who rules the roost! We also discuss growing up in Jamaica, how he fell into the wrong crowd and ended up in jail after moving to London at age 18, and what ultimately led to him turning his life around. It's an inspirational story of a dad who turned his life around that we at Dadvengers appreciate Harry sharing with us. Time Codes 1:15 - Harry talks about his children, their ages and how different they are! 3:01 – The relationship between his children, and how his son helps his younger sister 4:40 – Growing up in Jamaica, how that differs to raising his children in the UK and the fears of raising a teenage son 8:05 – How Harry and his partner's parenting style differs, the importance of being a united front for his children, and how he reflected on his childhood and made decisions to parent in a different way.  11:57 – Social media career, and what led him to change the language he used in his videos to ensure he is a good role model for his children 14:27 – Harry discusses his male role models growing up 15:32 – “Dandy Shandy” Harry tells us about the games he played when growing up 18:03 – Video games, imaginary play, and the thing that makes him happiest in life.  20:49 – Harry discusses his late teenage years, how he fell into a drug culture at the age of 18 in London, and ending up in prison 25:09 – Leaving prison after two and a half years at the age of 21, the lack of support to help prevent re-offending, and how having his son at 22 made him reflect on the choices he was making 29:18 – How starting comedy videos and an ultimatum from his partner turned his life around, and the advice Harry would give to someone in the lifestyle he used to lead 34:30 – Talking to his teenage son about the lifestyle Harry led in his late teenage years, and what the impact of having children was on his life 37:56 – Dad superpower Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 05 - Richard Whitehead MBE Paralympian and world record holder, Richard Whitehead becomes the first gold medalist to be inducted into the Dadvengers community. A father of two, Richard talks openly about his daughter's autism, his achievements on the track and the road, but how winning isn't just about the medals. Time Codes 1:40 - "It's a great coaster mate"... Richard talks about winning a gold medal and what he does with it now! 3:55 - Richard shares how becoming a parent is the biggest achievements of his life, over the Olympics. 6:10 - "The autism spectrum is really precious" Richard discusses parenting his autistic daughter and how they don't let the label stop her doing what ever she wants in life. 08:39 - How Richard tells us how he deals with the difficulties of managing his disability and how society needs to change to be more accepting of minority communities. 11:46 - Richard shares his advice for parents of children with suspected autistic spectrum disorders. 15:05 - Richard discusses the relationship between his two children and how he and his partner manage their individual needs. 18:15 – "We get the presents early and then they change their mind!" how Richard and his partner manage the changing wants of their children near Christmas!  21:05 – Richard shares his favourite toys as a child - "It had to have about 18 batteries in, it was ace!" 23:06– Why Richard ran 40 marathons in 40 days - what inspired it, and the legacy he wants to leave through that challenge. 27:43 – "Having the opportunity to have a voice" - Richard tells us how he uses his position to talk and the impact on our mental health. 29:00 – The balance of empowering children to do and achieve what they want - while also putting in appropriate boundaries. 31:32 - "My children have a roof over their head... But there are children out there not in the same situation" - Richard shares how he wants to use his experiences to be the best he can and help other people, 34:08 - Richard tells us about his podcast "Track and Ball". 35:23 - "You feel like a superhero" - Richard shares the responsibility he feels being an Olympic athlete. 37:46 - Richards Parenting Superpower.  Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 04 - JB Gill Singer, Presenter and Farmer, JB Gill is this week's guest, explaining his decision to ditch the hustle and bustle of city life to set up roots in the Kent countryside, and how he had to discuss death with his then four-year-old son after a rather grim discovery on his farm just before a school run. JB's wife, Chloe also joins JB as they tell Nigel all about the complications of their first of two cesarean births. Another great Dadvengers podcast episode Time Codes 1:12 - JB talks about the positive side of lockdowns and spending time with the family. 3:40 - "I always remember spending time with the family" JB talks about growing up in Antigua and his parents balancing work and home life. 4:55 - "It's all hands on deck"... JB opens up about his own dad and how hands on he was as JB was growing up - and what drew him back to the country life! 07:42 - JB discusses how he is opening his children's eyes to farming, the importance of that as an industry and how his children cope with the farming lifestyle! 10:07 - "We literally had a massacre... 20-30 dead turkeys" - dealing with the aftermath of a fox visit with a 4 year old child! 13:00 - JB talks about how he broached the subject of death with his children - and shares advice on how to talk to your children about the circle of life. 17:10 – "We saw a different side to him", How JB's son dealt with the death of his first pet. 18:39 – What toys and games are JB's children into - and does that compare to the toys JB and his brother were into as children. 21:39 – "He started picking up girl stuff... for his sister" - how JB's son told his parents they were pregnant and having a girl before they had any idea! 22:56 – JB is joined by his wife Chloe and they both talk openly about having a difficult labour and birth with their son Ace... 28:27 – “That's when I freaked out" - JB discusses how he was scared to lose his wife on the operating table. 31:10 - JB had been paying close attention in the antenatal classes and spoke up for what's best for Chloe and their baby... "We need skin to skin now!!" 32:56 - The experience of having their second baby was much calmer, and easier than the first. 34:38 - "One of the biggest moments is when Mufasa is with Simba..." JB's greatest movie dad moment. 37:50 - JB and Chloe's Parenting superpowers Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 03 - Kelvin Fletcher Dadvengers Podcast is excited to welcome Actor, Racing Driver and 2019 Strictly Come Dancing winner, Kelvin Fletcher. He joins Nigel to discuss being away from his kids, feeling safer on a race track than he does on the M62, and how doing his daughter's hair before school is risky business. Kelvin also shares his concerns about the seemingly 'pro-mother' judicial system when it comes to parents separating.  Time Codes 1:51 - The Strictly Come Dancing routine, sacrifices and the impact on Kelvin's family - "Three or four weeks was the longest I did without seeing them". 4:12 - Kelvin talks working away and how he feels about it and balancing family time. 5:07 - "I went to bed from 3 or 4 years old with a spanner" - Kelvin talks about his love of Speedway and the safety, and fun of the sport! 08:48 - Kelvin opens up about his aspirations for his own children. 13:55 - How Kelvin's relationship with his own dad has grown since his childhood. 16:00 - "We had an hour of Barbie... it didn't last as long as I wanted it to!" - The things Kelvin's children love to play with and what they're like. 18:50 – How Kelvin and his wife are still figuring out parenting two young children, and the impact of a lack of routine. 21:51 – Kelvin talks about how his children are experimenting, evolving and learning - and how he supports that. 27:11 – Sleeping in dens on a week night... Kelvin has taken things from his childhood he wasn't allowed to do – and lets his kids do them! 29:15 – Kelvin's witnessed a friend's difficulties in seeing their own children. He tells us about court rulings not being followed – “all he wants to do is to be an active figure in his child's life” 33:32 – "Are dad's getting equal rights here?" Kelvin's view on the inequality of the legal system and the lack of repercussions on mum's in the court system. 35:05 – Kelvin shares his advice for parents in similar situations, and how he encourages his friends to write down their feelings to share with the kids when they're older. 36:11 – “It's crucial” –Kelvin tells us the importance of dads talking to each other about their experiences. 38:53 – Kelvin's dad fail with a French plait – “That parent nod…. he's had a go bless him!”  41:05 - Parenting Superpower! Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 02 - Nihal Arthanayake BBC Radio 5 live DJ Nihal Arthanayake joins Nigel Clarke for this episode of the Dadvengers Podcast to discus the love-hate relationship between his son and daughter, what the family have been discussing at the dinner table, and how being a person of colour in the UK has affected/affects their kids. Plus no chat with a music lover would be complete without finding out the albums that all kids should and shouldn't listen to! Time Codes 1:24 - Nihal talks about his children... "They're frenemies!" 7:10 - "I'll do it on my own" - The ultimatum from Nihal'a wife that led to him learning to contribute to fatherhood fully. 11:07 - Dealing with his child's extreme reaction when loosing at sports at a young age. 13:18 - "I care about the things I should... don't sweat the small stuff" - advice on parenting. 15:30 - Nihal talks about parenting two very different children. 19:08 - Supporting his children to pursue their interests... "I DM'd Calvin Harris". 21:34 - Nihal's favourite toys as a child, and melting action mans face! 24:42 - Learning about Nihal's own family history 26:38 - Nihal on taking his children to a BLM March and the impact of this on them all. 30:07 - Dealing with the racial discrimination Nihal and his children have experienced since moving out of London. 34:25 - "They'd inherited scumbagginess from their parents" - dealing with racist children at his own children's school 37:18 -Nihal talks about the importance of being part of a team. 39:03 - The albums our children absolutely should, and shouldn't listen to! 40:10 - Parenting Superpower!  Don't forget to subscribe to be first to hear new episodes. And if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook too! Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dadvengers Podcast Episode 01 - Andy Day Welcome to the first ever episode of the Dadvengers Podcast Longest-serving CBeebies Presenter, Andy Day, talks candidly to host Nigel Clarke (The Baby Club - CBeebies) about the arrival of his daughter Ruby, his parenting mishaps and his work with the Anti-Bullying Alliance. And listen out for the hilarious story of Andy's journey to the hospital and the reaction of the midwife. Time Codes 1:20 - parenting and work  4:21 - Andy talks about how he found out his partner was expecting, and preparing for fatherhood  6:11 - The Anti Bullying Alliance and Odd Socks; Andy talks about working with the ABA, how he prepares his daughter for dealing with bullies and the influence of music on children.  11:55 - “I can't talk now, I've lost a £250k diamond...” Andy talks about his father, helping him at work and his childhood.  16:34 - Andy discussed how he found support as a new father.  19:48 - Andy's favourite toys, and the toys his daughter Ruby likes now  22:53 - Andy talks about their experience of hypno-birthing, delivering his daughter and losing the car cars at a vital time!  30:55 - Ruby comes home... we are responsible now!  32:15 - we test Andy's knowledge of his daughter Ruby with questions from his partner Cat  37:50 - Parenting Super Power  We hope you enjoy this episode and if you want more of our parenting content make sure you're following us on Instagram & Facebook Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.