What happens when you achieve everything you've ever dreamed of and still feel like you're drowning?
Marvin Sordell was living the dream. Premier League footballer. England Under-21 international. Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics. From the outside, he had it all. But inside, he was falling apart.
At 21, while representing his country and playing at the highest level, Marvin was secretly battling severe depression. At 23, he came close to retiring. At 28, he walked away from professional football completely, not because he wasn't good enough, but because staying was destroying him.
This is one of the most honest and necessary conversations about men's mental health, success, identity and the hidden cost of chasing dreams.
Marvin takes us through his entire journey, from being released by Fulham at 16 and bouncing back to sign with Watford, to breaking into the Premier League with Bolton Wanderers, to the moment success became suffocating. He talks about the pressure that nobody prepares you for, the therapy that helped him understand why achieving his goals made him spiral, and the suicide attempt at the height of his career that nobody knew about for years.
But this conversation goes far beyond football.
Marvin speaks openly about:
• Why we're taught to handle failure but never taught to handle success
• The mental toll of tying your entire self-worth to performance
• How childhood trauma resurfaced when he finally "made it"
• Living on antidepressants while playing in front of thousands
• The loneliness of suffering in silence when everyone thinks you have it all
• Why he finally spoke out about his mental health and what changed
• Co-parenting with respect and putting his children's happiness first
• Running three businesses, finding purpose beyond the pitch, and redefining what success actually means
(00:01:12) Introduction: Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health
(00:00:00) The Gratitude Paradox: Finding Peace in Both Highs and Lows
(00:01:52) Who is Marvin: A Father With No Quiet Mornings
(00:06:01) The Daily Grind: Practice Over Play
(00:07:23) Courage Without Guarantees: Jumping In With Both Feet
(00:08:42) From Chelsea Rejection to Fulham Success: Learning From Failure
(00:09:55) Climbing the Ladder: When Winning is Just the Beginning
(00:10:46) Failure as DNA: The Mental Toll of Elite Football
(00:18:48) The First Year Struggle: When Football Stopped Being Fun
(00:22:52) The Summer That Changed Everything: Choosing to Go Again
(00:24:06) Breaking Into the First Team: Finding Freedom Again
(00:26:17) Success and Suffering: The Worst Points at the Highest Peak
(00:26:47) The Psychologist's Insight: We're Not Taught to Handle Success
(00:27:30) When Success Brings the Past to the Surface
(00:33:54) The Weight of Failure: Sleepless Nights and Endless Replays
(00:35:15) Money Doesn't Equal Happiness: What People Don't See
(00:38:35) 2013: The Overdose and the Silence That Followed
(00:42:39) Breaking the Silence: Why Marvin Finally Spoke Out
(00:46:30) The Cultural Silence: Why Men Don't Share Their Stories
(00:28:34) Retiring at 28: Choosing Mental Health Over Football
(00:48:56) Generational Trauma and Cultural Barriers to Mental Health
(00:50:56) Purpose Beyond Football: Leaving Things Better Than You Found Them
(00:51:48) Raising Kids With Values: Polite, Hardworking, and Honest
(00:54:25) Teaching Through Struggle: Letting Kids Solve Their Own Problems
(00:58:00) Co-Parenting and Putting Kids First: Finding Peace in Their Happiness
(01:00:05) Grateful for the Lows: Why Every Experience Matters
(01:00:58) Making the Most of One Life: Outlandish Dreams and No Regrets
\"If you want to be grateful for all of the positive things in your life, you have to also be grateful for all of the negative things in your life. They both made you who you are. If you're happy with who you are, then you're happy with everything that made you who you are.\"
Marvin now dedicates his life to mental health advocacy, running businesses that create positive change, and raising his two children with the values of honesty, hard work and kindness. His story is a powerful reminder that strength isn't about never struggling, it's about choosing to keep going even when no one knows you're fighting.
Whether you're chasing a dream, dealing with pressure, struggling in silence, or trying to find meaning after everything you worked for falls apart, this episode will challenge everything you think you know about success, masculinity and mental health.
🔔 Subscribe for more raw, real conversations that break the silence around men's mental health.
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What happens when a trusted friend becomes a child's worst nightmare?
Jeremy Indica was eight years old when his father's friend began sexually abusing him. For over a year, in his own home, under his father's nose, a predator groomed and violated him—and Jeremy told no one. Not because he didn't want to. Because he didn't even know he could.
This is one of the most difficult, necessary, and powerful conversations The Dad Project has ever aired. Jeremy takes us through the unthinkable—the details of his abuse, the decades of silence, the night terrors at 25, and the moment he finally told his father, shattering him completely.
But this episode isn't just about trauma. It's about transformation.
Jeremy left a six-figure aerospace engineering career designing Formula One parts to dedicate his life to protecting children. He now speaks in schools, trains teachers and police, runs the platform Something to Say, and fights to change the laws around child safeguarding in the UK.
This conversation goes deep into:
• The reality of child sexual abuse—what it actually is, how grooming works, and why children stay silent
• How childhood trauma resurfaces in adulthood and affects relationships, intimacy, and mental health
• Why the education system, parents, and schools must work together to protect children
• The dangers of online grooming, gaming chat rooms, and pornography's role in creating offenders
• What parents must teach their children about body safety and consent—at every age
• Jeremy's confrontation with his abuser, his arrest, and being taken to court
• Why we need to understand offenders to safeguard the next generation
(00:00:00) Introduction: Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health
(00:02:07) The Question No One Asks: What Actually Happened
(00:04:30) Eight Years Old: When the Abuse Began
(00:09:40) The Grooming Process: How Predators Manipulate Children
(00:15:01) The Abuse Escalates: Moments Frozen in Memory
(00:18:12) Hidden in Plain Sight: Why No One Noticed
(00:35:01) The Abuser's Profile: Understanding Predators to Protect Children
(00:47:41) Twenty-Five and Shattered: When the Memories Returned
(00:27:11) Telling His Father: A Scream of Pain
(00:54:06) Breaking the Silence: The First Friend
(01:07:38) The Open Mic Journey: Finding His Voice
(01:17:10) From Engineering to Advocacy: Building Something to Say
(01:21:34) Speaking in Schools: Protecting the Next Generation
(01:24:17) Practical Advice for Parents: Creating Safe Environments
(01:31:35) The Digital Danger: Protecting Children Online
(01:34:16) The Vision: Changing Laws and Saving Lives
"If you're ever worried or feeling uncomfortable about anything, please remember, you can always come to me because I will help you and you will never be in trouble for what's gone on."
This is the sentence every parent needs to say. Every child needs to hear. And every adult who was once that child needs to know it's never too late to speak.
Whether you're a parent, teacher, survivor, or someone who wants to understand how to protect the children in your life—this episode will change how you see safeguarding, silence, and the power of speaking out.
🔔 Subscribe for conversations that matter. Share this episode with every parent, teacher, and safeguarding professional you know.
📲 Follow Jeremy Indica
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Reshma Patel spent years living the life she thought she was supposed to live. A comfortable marriage. Children. A stable home. A successful career as a dietitian. From the outside everything looked perfect, but inside she felt lost, disconnected and unsure of who she really was.
When her marriage ended in her mid-30s, her entire identity collapsed. She had never paid bills, never handled finances and never lived alone. At the same time both her father and her ex-partner’s father became seriously unwell, creating overwhelming pressure and emotional turmoil.
Reshma describes locking herself away during lockdown, feeling broken and rebuilding her life piece by piece. She learned independence, bought her own home, started therapy and began putting herself first for the first time in her life. Fitness became her daily anchor, helping her rebuild confidence, strength and self-worth.
She also speaks about her culture, motherhood, friendships, divorce, emotional growth and the importance of choosing yourself even when it feels terrifying.
Today Reshma helps others understand their relationship with food, stress and mental health and has become a woman her children would be proud of.
This is a powerful and relatable story of losing yourself and finding your way back.
Themes
Losing identity in marriage
Divorce and emotional collapse
Cultural pressure on women
Rebuilding independence
Mental health during separation
Fitness and self-worth
Co-parenting with respect
Supportive relationships
Reinvention and confidence
Why this episode matters
Reshma shows what many women live through silently — giving everything to others until there is nothing left for themselves. Her journey proves that rebuilding your identity is possible at any stage of life.
(00:00:00) Understanding Men's Relationship with Food
(00:01:17) Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health
(00:01:53) Meeting Rashma: From Comfort Zone to Courage
(00:06:04) The Gut-Brain Connection and Hormonal Health
(00:12:04) The Executive's Dilemma: High-Functioning Alcoholics and Burnout
(00:19:09) Finding Downtime in a 24/7 World
(00:29:25) Life Before: The Comfortable Cage
(00:36:24) Divorce During Lockdown: When Two Fathers Fall Apart
(00:47:51) Co-Parenting and Finding Friendship After Marriage
(00:54:58) Reinventing Rashma: From Gym Anxiety to Pull-Up Queen
(01:03:08) Coaching Men Through Crisis: The Real Work
(01:14:01) Legacy of Happiness: Being the Mother Her Children Need
"I want my kids to look back and say, you did it on your own. And we know that if something goes wrong in our lives, we'll be fine because we've evidence that as parents, you will be absolutely fine because we were."
Whether you're trapped in a life that looks perfect but feels empty, struggling through divorce, or trying to understand how your body and mind connect—this episode will challenge everything you think you know about strength, identity, and what it means to truly show up for yourself.
🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations about transformation, mental health, and finding yourself after losing everything.
Follow Reshma Patel
Instagram: @thedietitianglobal
LinkedIn: @reshma-patel-the-dietitian
Website: www.thedietitian.com/
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Jason Smith spent years climbing the corporate ladder until he realised he was outsourcing his entire role as a dad. He left his job to be present for his son, but when the routine disappeared he felt lost. His identity collapsed, his confidence vanished and his physical and mental health spiralled.
Within 18 months he was warned he was heading towards type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and fatty liver disease. He was drinking heavily, barely moving and felt deeply unhappy.
One day an image he saw online stopped him in his tracks. In that moment he knew he had to change. He quit alcohol overnight, started walking daily and began rebuilding his mind and body from the ground up. He posted every day for accountability, joined a sober community and slowly became the man he wished he had always been.
In this conversation Jason talks about identity loss, midlife crisis, depression, health fear, self-belief, discipline and how fitness became the anchor that rebuilt him. He explains why so many men struggle in silence and how simple habits changed his entire life.
Jason now works as a personal trainer and coach helping people aged 45–60 take control of their health, confidence and future.
This is a grounded and inspiring story about midlife transformation, presence and becoming the parent you always intended to be.
Themes
Midlife identity loss
Leaving career for fatherhood
Depression and emptiness
Health crisis and lifestyle disease
Alcohol dependency
Accountability and habit change
Fitness as emotional recovery
Rebuilding confidence
Helping others through lived experience
Why this episode matters
Jason shows how quickly a man’s life can unravel when identity disappears — and how fast it can change when belief returns. His story proves it is never too late to rebuild your health, mindset and purpose.
(00:00:00) Introduction: Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health
(00:01:45) Leaving Corporate Life to Become a Present Father
(00:05:20) The Power of Presence: Redefining Fatherhood
(00:12:13) The Identity Crisis: When Your Job Title Disappears
(00:15:10) Depression, Diabetes, and Rock Bottom at 49
(00:22:10) Finding Your True Self Through a Child's Eyes
(00:28:03) The Hobbit Moment: When Everything Changed
(00:36:07) From Wine to Wellness: The Journey to Sobriety
(00:41:02) Rediscovering Adventure at 49: Mountain Bikes and Swimming Lessons
(00:49:01) From Client to Coach: Finding Purpose in Fitness
(00:58:20) The Mental Game: Why Fitness is Really About Self-Image
(01:17:44) A Father's Promise: Don't Become a Burden to Your Children
🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations about men's mental health, fatherhood, and finding purpose in midlife.
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Instagram: @fitinmidlife
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Facebook: @fitinmidlife
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Chris Davies grew up in chaos. Violence, instability and emotional neglect shaped his early years and left deep marks he carried into adulthood. After his father died, he felt a strong pull to create legacy and purpose, so he joined the Royal Marines. The training, the identity and the intensity gave him structure, but it also deepened the emotional numbness he had learned as a child.
In this conversation Chris speaks openly about childhood trauma, Marines training, emotional shutdown and the long period of his life where he cut himself off from feeling. He explains how leaving the forces left him without identity or direction and how the breakdown of a relationship forced him to confront everything he had been avoiding.
Chris shares how men’s work, breathwork, grounding and nervous system awareness helped him rebuild himself piece by piece. He now supports men through the same journey, helping them reconnect with their bodies, emotions and strength in healthier ways.
This episode is raw, honest and deeply relevant to any man who has learned to stay numb in order to survive.
Themes
Childhood trauma
Royal Marines training
Emotional numbness
Identity loss after leaving the forces
Relationship breakdown
Nervous system regulation
Men’s work and breathwork
Masculinity and vulnerability
Why this episode matter
Many men learn to suppress emotion to survive trauma, the forces or difficult environments. Chris shows what happens when that silence breaks and how men can rebuild from the inside out.
(00:00:00) The Burden of Becoming Your Best Self
(00:01:03) Introduction: Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health
(00:01:38) The Black Sheep: Chris's Childhood and Early Wisdom
(00:08:40) A Father's Death and the Search for Legacy
(00:15:07) Joining the Marines: Purpose, Fear, and Brotherhood
(00:17:55) Modern Masculinity and the Loss of Purpose
(00:26:56) Combat in Afghanistan: Facing Death as a Valiman
(00:29:52) Leaving the Military and Finding Breathwork
(00:40:41) The Science and Spirit of Breathwork
(01:02:46) Sacred Sons and Men's Work
(01:12:15) Why Men Resist Healing
(01:26:52) Breaking the Cycle for Future Generations
🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe to support powerful conversations that men need to hear.
Connect with Chris
Instagram: @the_chrisdavies/
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#MensMentalHealth #RoyalMarines #VeteranMentalHealth #TraumaHealing #ChildhoodTrauma #EmotionalAwareness #HealingJourney #MensWork #TheDadProject #Resilience #RealStories
Why do so many men feel disconnected, emotionally numb, or stuck? In this raw and revealing episode of The Dad Project, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with psychotherapist and brain coach Glenn Ross to unpack the real emotional struggles men face today and how we can heal.
Glenn shares powerful insights on emotional literacy, suppressed trauma, the myth of masculine stoicism, and how our childhoods shape our adult behaviours. This episode looks into practical tools for emotional growth, including holding space, the power of asking better questions, and creating safe environments for honest male expression.
This is not just a conversation, it’s a guide for anyone ready to understand themselves more deeply.
00:00: What’s wrong with how men express emotion?
01:37: "We're not taught how to feel"
05:10: Suppressed pain and its impact on adult behavior
07:23: Generational wounds and fatherhood
10:44: When your work doesn’t align with your truth
14:00: Why men numb out with content, distractions, or control
17:50: The difference between distraction and true expression
20:32: Emotional literacy: What does it mean to feel?
24:58: "Holding space" – How to listen without fixing
29:10: Why most men have no safe place to be vulnerable
31:24: Understanding trauma: root cause vs surface behavior
35:45: Anger, shame, and the body's wisdom
40:29: Learning to be emotionally honest with yourself
43:12: The power of empathy and being seen
46:40: Redefining strength: It's okay to not be okay
49:19: Feminine vs masculine energy in emotional dynamics
56:20: The long journey of healing: progress over perfection
59:50: Creating emotional safety for the next generation
1:03:18: Final reflections: what true masculinity looks like
🔔 If this conversation resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear it.
Follow Glen Ross
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Website: www.glenross.co
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“When you actually really face the possibility of dying, you realise how short life is… I’m going to do what I want to do, what makes me happy, and I’m not going to compromise that for anyone.” Dilan Patel
What happens when everything you take for granted is shattered by a life-threatening diagnosis? In this powerful episode of The Dad Project, Dilan Patel shares his journey from deeply insecure teenager to stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis at 25 and how that moment forced him to rebuild his life from the inside out.
00:00 – Intro: Life‑is‑short realisation & freedom after facing mortality
02:20 – Childhood insecurities: hiding, shyness & feeling like an outsider
05:00 – Family dynamics, feeling unseen & low confidence
08:00 – Starting physical training: dumbbells, gym & self‑esteem breakthroughs
11:30 – Early 20s: unhealthy habits, university period, what changed
13:50 – Turning point: Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis at age 25
17:40 – Symptoms, diagnosis process & initial emotional turmoil
22:00 – Treatment begins: chemotherapy, side effects & support network
27:30 – Exploring holistic health: diet, breathwork, mindset alongside medical care
32:10 – Reconstructing life: leaving job, embracing true purpose
36:50 – Spiritual awakening & seeing life as more than physical body
41:20 – DNA Fitness: shifting focus from physical to mindset & identity
45:00 – Practical tools: journaling, gratitude, affirmations, healing inner wounds
50:30 – Coping mentally during chemo, handling shame, fatigue & isolation
56:10 – Vision for the future: relationships, fatherhood, living authentically
1:02:00 – What legacy means: being loved, having impact in simple, genuine ways
1:10:00 – Encouragement for others: therapy, community, being seen & heard
1:18:30 – Closing reflections
Why this episode matters
Dilan's story is raw, unfiltered, and deeply human. It shows how trauma, illness, and vulnerability can become catalysts for massive growth.
Whether you’re grappling with health challenges, seeking purpose, or just trying to live more authentically, this episode offers wisdom, hope, and real practices you can start using today.
Follow Dilan / DNA Fitness
📲 www.instagram.com/dnafitnessuk
🌐 www.dnafitnessuk.com/
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In this deeply moving episode of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with renowned CEO advisor and single father, René Carayol, for an unfiltered conversation on what it means to lead with heart, humility, and humanity.
From sprinting to work drenched in sweat as a young single dad to coaching some of the world’s most powerful executives, René opens up about the silent struggles of fatherhood, the weight of societal expectations, and the invisible strength found in vulnerability.
He shares raw stories of raising his children alone, through personal loss, cultural pressure, and corporate highs—and how the love and validation from his children carried him through.This episode is a masterclass in redefining leadership, embracing your “spikes,” and finding community when it matters most.
Whether you’re a dad, a leader, or someone navigating life’s toughest chapters, this one’s for you.
🎧 Real, unfiltered, and full of heart, this is the conversation we all need to hear.
00:00 - A Father's Daily Sprint
01:11 - The Only Audience That Matters: Your Kids
03:17 - Public Speaking, Presence & Purpose
04:13 - Who Is René Carayol?
06:33 - From Gambia to London: The Immigrant Dream
09:30 - Are Leaders Born or Found?
11:23 - Why “Fixing Your Weaknesses” is a Trap
13:13 - Finding Your Light Through Loved Ones
15:30 - The Trap of Always Serving Others
18:40 - Experiences of Racism, Resilience & Recognition
21:57 - Brotherhood, Community & the Power of a Handwritten Note
24:36 - Raising Kids with 17 Uncles
26:42 - Surviving Discrimination & Finding Safe Spaces
31:10 - Courage vs. Perfection: How We Raise Boys & Girls
36:11 - Coaching the World's Top CEOs
39:44 - Only Do What You’re Brilliant At
45:42 - Mentorship, Inclusion & Building Better Workplaces51:12 - Becoming a Single Father at University
56:08 - Kick Guilt to the Curb: Your Kids Know
1:10:06 - Love, Loss, and Learning to Parent Again
1:17:37 - Final Message: Look Out For Each Other, Look After Each Other
🔔 If this episode moved you, please like, comment, share, and subscribe.
Your support helps The Dad Project grow and reach more fathers who need it.
📲 Follow René CarayolWebsite: www.carayol.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/renecarayolYouTube: www.youtube.com/ReneCarayolX: www.x.com/renecarayol
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In this powerful episode of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti welcomes Harj Gahley, a devoted father who shares his courageous battle with gambling addiction, the heavy financial and emotional toll it took, and how he found redemption and purpose through fatherhood.Harj opens up about losing over £200,000 to gambling, the shame and secrecy that followed, and the pivotal moment he decided to seek help. His journey from addiction to accountability is one of resilience, growth, and deep emotional healing.Through therapy, emotional vulnerability, and the support of a brotherhood of fathers, Harj has transformed his life and now shows up fully for his children with authenticity and love. His story is a raw and inspiring reminder that no matter how far you've fallen, it's never too late to rise again.🎧 Honest, impactful, and full of wisdom, this episode is a beacon of hope for any dad struggling with addiction or emotional isolation.00:00:00 Introduction: Meet Harj00:02:16 Struggles After Separation00:05:44 Gambling Addiction and Financial Loss00:09:12 Facing the Fear of Losing His Kids00:11:49 How The Dad Project Changed His Life00:15:07 Therapy and Self-Discovery00:18:26 Masculinity, Vulnerability, and Growth00:23:03 How Harj Shows Up for His Kids Now00:26:41 Words of Wisdom for Other Fathers00:30:14 Finding Strength Through Brotherhood00:35:28 Coping with Change and Rediscovery00:42:16 Building Emotional Intelligence00:47:51 Breaking Generational Patterns00:55:03 Living with Intention and Purpose01:02:34 Co-Parenting Challenges and Lessons01:10:22 Embracing Vulnerability in Daily Life01:17:58 Personal Growth and Long-Term Vision01:25:44 Final Reflections and Hopes for Fathers🔔 If you found value in this conversation, like, share, and subscribe to support The Dad Project and help more fathers find strength in their journey.📲 Follow Harj Gahleywww.instagram.com/harjgahley/www.linkedin.com/in/harjgahley/📲 Follow The Dad Project:www.instagram.com/thedadprojecthqwww.facebook.com/thedadprojecthqwww.tiktok.com/@thedadprojecthqYouTube: @thedadprojecthqwww.x.com/thedadprojecthqwww.linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project#Fatherhood #GamblingAddiction #MentalHealth #HealingJourney #TheDadProject #AddictionRecovery #SelfGrowth #DadLife #ParentingSupport #EmotionalWellbeing
What would drive a loving father and husband to rob 12 banks and what happens after the fallout?In this astonishing episode of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti speaks with Reed Domingo for one of the most gripping and deeply human conversations we've ever shared. Reed takes us through his unbelievable journey, from a privileged start and successful career to financial collapse, desperation, crime, incarceration, and ultimately redemption.This is more than a story of crime and consequence. It's about love, fatherhood, resilience, and finding your true self in the darkest places. Reed opens up about battling infertility through IVF, falling into overwhelming debt, contemplating suicide, and rebuilding his identity in federal prison—where he emerged not broken, but transformed.🎧 Raw, vulnerable, and unexpectedly uplifting, this episode reminds us all that we are exactly where we’re meant to be, and it’s never too late to write a new chapter.00:00 Intro: "Exactly Where You're Supposed to Be"01:42 Meet Reed: A Life Like a Movie04:07 Boarding School & Early Independence08:25 Family, Love & Emotional Expression13:28 Rejecting Expectations & Redefining Success17:14 Civil Engineering… for Love20:36 Discovering Computers, Moving to America24:34 Life in Southern California29:17 Falling in Love & Facing Infertility33:05 The Long IVF Journey Begins39:20 Failure, Sex & Coping Mechanisms43:48 The Ninth Attempt: Success & Chummy is Born48:00 Daddy-Daughter Fridays & Deep Bonding52:03 Letting Go: When Your Daughter Falls in Love57:57 Parenting Advice from Experience1:01:08 $250,000 in Debt & Desperation1:06:15 Growing Weed, Losing Hope1:10:34 Contemplating Suicide1:15:12 Robbing Banks as a “Soft Crime”1:20:59 The Motorcycle Bandit & FBI Pursuit1:25:41 Arrested at Home on His Birthday1:29:19 Prison: Becoming Mr. Reed1:35:05 Deportation, Co-Parenting & Resilience1:39:21 Finding Love Again & Healing Through Acceptance1:42:24 Final Thoughts: Never Speak Ill of the Other Parent🔔 Like, subscribe, and share this incredible story to support The Dad Project and spark deeper conversations about fatherhood, resilience, and redemption.📲 Follow The Dad Project:Instagram: @thedadprojecthqTikTok: @thedadprojecthqFacebook: facebook.com/thedadprojecthqYouTube: @thedadprojecthqX (Twitter): @thedadprojecthqLinkedIn: The Dad Project
In this powerful episode of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with therapist, poet, and addiction specialist Jackie to explore the emotional depths of men's mental health, shame, and vulnerability.
Jackie opens up about her own journey and the lessons she’s learned from years of working with men facing internal battles—from addiction and anger to emotional shutdown and shame. Together, they unpack what it means to really listen, why emotional regulation matters, and how relationships can become spaces of healing rather than conflict.
Whether you're a father, partner, or someone seeking to understand yourself more deeply, this conversation offers rare insight and honest tools for emotional resilience and self-love.
🎧 Raw, reflective, and refreshingly human—this episode is an essential listen for anyone navigating modern masculinity.
00:00:00 What Is Shame and How to Witness It00:01:07 Introducing Season 2 of The Dad Project00:01:33 Meet Jackie: Therapist, Poet, Change maker00:03:23 Stories That Get Overlooked00:04:35 The Hidden Language of Men00:06:00 Frustration, Anger & Communication Patterns00:07:24 Expanding Emotional Tolerance00:09:20 Emotional Buckets & Resilience00:10:42 Micro-Moments of Unmet Needs00:12:30 Signs Men Need Help (But Miss)00:14:05 Brave Spaces vs. Safe Spaces00:15:45 Roles, Labels & Systems00:17:12 What Healthy Masculinity Looks Like00:19:15 Arguing Better in Relationships00:21:43 The Power of Timing and Boundaries00:24:22 How Women Perceive Emotional Withdrawal00:26:22 Tools for Emotional Self-Awareness00:29:09 Music, Poetry & Men’s Emotional Expression00:31:10 The Beauty of Stillness & Presence00:34:06 Self-Talk, Shame & Saying “I Love You”00:38:58 The Addict’s Inner Pain00:41:19 Breaking Addiction Cycles00:46:06 How Families Can Help (Without Enabling)00:50:22 Jackie's Journey with Poetry00:53:39 Naroop's Vision for The Dad Project00:55:56 Why Women Are Watching01:00:14 Supporting Teenage Boys01:06:00 Final Reflections on Legacy & Purpose
🔔 Like, share, and subscribe to support The Dad Project and help redefine masculinity, one honest conversation at a time.
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#MensMentalHealth #AddictionRecovery #Fatherhood #Shame #Healing #TheDadProject #EmotionalHealth #ModernMasculinity #RelationshipAdvice #PoetryHealing
In this deeply emotional episode of The Dad Project, siblings Govind and Jasleen open up about their turbulent childhood growing up in a household marked by parental conflict, alcohol abuse, and emotional trauma.Together, they explore:
Their raw, honest conversation sheds light on how unresolved generational trauma can influence how we love, cope, and grow and how empathy, communication, and sibling support can be powerful tools in healing.
Whether you're navigating family dynamics, reflecting on your upbringing, or trying to break toxic cycles, this episode offers hope and perspective.
00:00 Intro
00:49 Sibling dynamics growing up
04:17 Living through parental conflict
08:04 Early trauma and emotional scars
13:05 Seeking therapy and healing
16:46 Understanding their father’s past
20:59 Impact on adult relationships
24:53 Cultural expectations and stigma
28:34 Fatherhood, regret, and reconciliation
32:34 Advice for men on the brink
36:01 Reconnecting as siblings
41:07 Defining modern masculinity
46:05 Emotional openness in relationships
51:50 Forgiveness, grief, and growth
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Join host Naroop Jhooti and special guest Prashil Mistry, “The Indian Life Coach,” for a powerful and honest conversation.
Prashil opens up about carrying the hidden weight of three years of silent pain, navigating the trauma of bullying, divorce, and a near-suicide experience. Through a transformative ‘dream day’ exercise, he manifested a loving partner and a home.
Now, as he steps into fatherhood, he’s breaking ancestral cycles and leading the charge for men’s mental health by embracing vulnerability and authenticity.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:45 Childhood struggles and bullying
00:10:36 Landing first job at Staples and early career growth
00:13:06 Passion for creative design and web development
00:15:24 Marriage breakdown and decision to separate
00:18:07 Family’s vital support during crisis
00:20:19 Carrying the weight of unspoken emotions
00:25:42 Confronting fear, loneliness, and identity loss
00:29:08 Near-suicide moment and nephew’s photo that saved him
00:32:11 Journey to becoming “The Indian Life Coach”
00:35:48 Pushing beyond comfort zones: speaking, public events
00:38:08 Men’s mental health and the power of vulnerability
00:43:05 Adopting a growth mindset, vision boards, manifestation
01:02:33 Entering fatherhood and breaking generational trauma
01:06:18 Reflecting on legacy and how he wants to be remembered
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and help more dads find strength in vulnerability.
📲 Follow Prashil Mistry
Instagram: www.instagram.com/theindianlifecoach
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@theindianlifecoach
Website: www.theindianlifecoach.co.uk/
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#MensMentalHealth #Fatherhood #Growth #Vulnerability #TheDadProject
In this deeply personal and powerful episode of The Dad Project, Juggy Sidhu opens up about the darkest chapter of his life — the day he tried to take it all away. From silent suffering and spiraling addiction to a life-changing crash that became a turning point, Juggy’s raw honesty will move you.Now a thriving coach, father, and speaker, Juggy shares how pain became his purpose — and how he's helping others transform their lives, inside and out.🔔 Like, subscribe, and share this episode to help break the stigma around men’s mental health and show others they are not alone.📲 Follow Juggy:Instagram: www.instagram.com/theindianbodycoachFacebook: www.facebook.com/juggysinghsidhuTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@theindianbodycoachLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/indianfatlossspecialistonlinecoachYouTube: www.youtube.com/@JuggySidhuTheIndianBodyCoach📲 Follow The Dad Project:Instagram: www.instagram.com/thedadprojecthqFacebook: www.facebook.com/thedadprojecthqTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@thedadprojecthqYouTube: www.youtube.com/@thedadprojecthqX (Twitter): www.x.com/thedadprojecthqLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project#MensMentalHealth #SuicideAwareness #TheDadProject #Fatherhood #Transformation #Purpose #FitnessJourney #Resilience #MentalHealthMatters
In this heartfelt episode of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with Nemash Patel, a single father who shares his powerful story of navigating divorce, overcoming emotional struggles, and discovering a renewed sense of purpose.
Nemash opens up about the fear of losing his children after separation, coping mechanisms that helped him rebuild his life, and how becoming part of The Dad Project transformed his personal growth and mission in life.
Honest, vulnerable, and deeply moving, this conversation explores how pain can become purpose, and how helping others can heal your own wounds.
🎧 Packed with honesty, hope, and practical wisdom, this episode is essential listening for any father experiencing life's toughest challenges.
00:00:00 Finding Purpose Through The Dad Project
00:01:26 Meet Nemash: A Single Dad's Journey
00:04:13 What Fatherhood Means to Nemash
00:08:29 The Impact of Separation Anxiety
00:11:46 Staying for the Kids
00:13:11 Rediscovering Life After Divorce
00:15:18 Nemash's Dreams and Ambitions
00:16:59 Emotional Impact of Divorce
00:18:41 Choosing Fitness Over Depression
00:22:06 Father's Influence and Legacy
00:24:04 Overcompensating as a Single Dad
00:26:42 Joining The Dad Project
00:30:43 Nemash's Vision for the Future
00:34:01 Why Nemash Wants to Help Others
00:36:26 Creating a Safe Space for Fathers
00:37:14 Personal Growth Through Helping Others
00:40:00 A Sense of Purpose and Duty
00:42:26 How Nemash Wants to Be Remembered
00:43:49 Final Reflections and Future Aspirations
🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and help more dads embrace their journey.
📲 Follow Nemash
Instagram: instagram.com/nemashpatel
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LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nemash-patel/
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#SingleDad #DivorceJourney #Fatherhood #MentalHealth #Healing #FindingPurpose #ParentingTips #TheDadProject #FatherhoodAdvice #OvercomingChallenges
In Episode 9 of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with close friend, model, and former star of SKY TV's Desi Rascals, Owais Khan, for a deeply personal conversation about overcoming bullying, navigating the pressures of reality TV, and finding his voice despite a lifelong stammer.Now an ambassador for Action for Stammering Children, Owais opens up about the emotional journey from his challenging school days to embracing fatherhood, highlighting how vulnerability became his greatest strength. This powerful episode offers valuable insights into resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of being present as a father.Honest, raw, and inspiring—this conversation will resonate with anyone overcoming life's hurdles and striving to live authentically.00:00:00 Introduction & Mental Health Struggles00:02:45 Early Childhood in Pakistan00:04:15 Experiences with Bullying & Racism00:06:52 Finding Confidence Through Sports00:08:00 Family Response & Emotional Impact00:10:31 Feeling Alone at Boarding School00:12:34 Parenting and Passing On Struggles00:15:37 Daughter's Stammer & Emotional Reflection00:18:55 Becoming a Stambassador00:23:47 Modelling Career & Gaining Confidence00:27:11 Framing Stammer as a Superpower00:29:37 Mental Health Crisis & COVID Impact00:32:15 Therapy & Overcoming Trauma00:35:01 Seeking Acceptance & Father's Approval00:36:55 Relationship with Father00:38:18 Parents' Divorce & Emotional Toll00:41:52 Appreciating Father's Sacrifices00:42:38 Becoming a Father & Life Changes00:46:55 Advice for Fathers: Being Present00:49:47 Coping with "Dad Guilt"00:51:00 Reality TV Experience & Challenges00:54:13 Future Ambitions & Stand-up Comedy00:55:54 How Owais Wants to Be Remembered00:56:44 Closing Thoughts & Gratitude🎧 This episode is packed with honesty, resilience, and powerful insights for anyone overcoming bullying, embracing fatherhood, or navigating life's challenges.🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support
The Dad Project and help inspire more fathers to open up about their journey.Follow Owais Khan
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LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/action-for-stammering-children
Website - www.actionforstammeringchildren.org
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#Fatherhood #MentalHealth #Bullying #OvercomingChallenges #Resilience #StammeringAwareness #TheDadProject #ParentingTips #FatherhoodAdvice
Episode 8 of The Dad Project Podcast features a deeply personal conversation between host Naroop Jhooti and his father, Bindy Jhooti.
Bindy openly shares the story of building a successful multi-million-pound business and the emotional journey of watching it collapse.
This episode dives into resilience, redefining success, and navigating life's hardest moments. Bindy reveals how he coped through immense uncertainty, holding onto hope and belief even in the darkest times.
Raw, honest, and inspiring this conversation highlights the power of vulnerability and father-son communication in overcoming life's greatest challenges.
00:00:00 Opening & Facing Life's Challenges
00:02:08 Bindy’s Early Life in Delhi
00:03:10 Influence of Uncle's Struggles
00:05:20 Early Lessons on Mental Health
00:07:25 Developing a Positive Mindset
00:08:10 Lessons from Father-in-Law
00:08:55 Joining the Family Business
00:11:16 Early Memories from the Factory
00:12:20 The Business Closing Down
00:15:05 Searching for a New Purpose
00:15:54 Coping with Emotional Stress
00:17:43 Supporting His Son's Music Career
00:19:53 The "Light Someone's Candle" Dream
00:22:16 Importance of Helping Others
00:23:33 How Divorce Impacts Parents
00:26:08 Importance of Therapy for Men
00:28:23 Pursuing Personal Fulfilment
00:29:33 Parents' Perspectives on Divorce
00:33:40 Changing Negative Environments
00:34:58 The Importance of Seeking Help
00:36:52 Thoughts on The Dad Project
00:38:23 Advice for Men Facing Struggles
00:40:50 Belief and Resilience
00:42:16 How Bindy Wants to be Remembered
00:47:26 Final Thoughts on Life
00:48:04 Closing Reflections and Gratitude
🎧 This episode of The Dad Project Podcast features a powerful conversation between host Naroop Jhooti and his father, Bindy Jhooti, exploring resilience, family, and overcoming life's toughest challenges.
🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and inspire others.
Follow The Dad Project
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#TheDadProject #Podcast #Fatherhood #Resilience #OvercomingObstacles #MentalStrength
In this moving episode of The Dad Project Podcast, host Naroop Jhooti sits down with Arun Setty, a single father who shares his journey of loss, resilience, and transformation.
After losing both of his parents and going through a difficult divorce, Arun found himself navigating fatherhood alone. In this heartfelt conversation, he opens up about the struggles of being a single dad, the sacrifices he made for his son, and the strength he discovered in the process.
Arun shares how stepping back from his high-flying career allowed him to dedicate more time to his son, how volunteering became a source of healing, and how embracing vulnerability helped him rebuild his life.
00:00 Introduction
01:18 Arun’s Journey to Single Fatherhood
03:28 Challenges After Separation
05:23 Co-Parenting and Travel Experiences
07:22 Finding Joy in Fatherhood
09:22 Adapting to Single Parenting
10:59 Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health
13:15 The Emotional Impact of Loneliness
16:06 The Power of Vulnerability
17:52 Support Systems and New Friendships
18:55 Volunteering as a Healing Tool
22:52 Career Sacrifices for Fatherhood
24:29 Cherishing Moments with Children
27:52 Building a New Life Post-Divorce
28:58 Social Life and Self-Discovery
30:12 Cultural Perspectives on Divorce
32:27 Final Reflections and Takeaways
🎧 This episode is packed with wisdom, honesty, and inspiration for single parents and anyone navigating life’s challenges.
🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and inspire more fathers to embrace their journey.
📲 Follow The Dad Project:
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#SingleDad #FatherhoodJourney #Parenting #Resilience #CoParenting #TheDadProject #OvercomingChallenges #ParentingTips #FatherhoodAdvice
Join us in this episode of The Dad Project Podcast, where we explore the journey of Kiran Dhilan, a dedicated single father navigating the challenges of raising an autistic child.
Kiran's story is one of transformation and dedication, reshaping perceptions of single fathers of colour through his relentless pursuit of equal parenting and personal growth.
In this heartfelt conversation, Kiran shares insights into the complexities of co-parenting, the long battle for 50/50 custody, and the special considerations of raising a child with autism.
His narrative sheds light on the societal biases against single dads and the power of resilience in overcoming personal and systemic hurdles.
00:00: Intro
01:19: Kiran’s transition to single fatherhood
02:37: Key child custody discussions
03:49: Challenging societal stereotypes
04:59: Fight for equal custody rights
07:00: Managing parenting an autistic child
10:10: Life adjustments after separation
12:29: Establishing a new, stable home
14:35: Personal growth and coping as a single dad
18:11: Achieving work-life balance
22:16: Embracing daily challenges positively
24:06: Career progression amid fatherhood
26:21: Confronting stigmas against single dads of colour
🔔 Don't miss this inspiring episode! Like, subscribe, and share to support The Dad Project and highlight the incredible journeys of single fathers everywhere.
Follow Kiran Dhilan
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k17_pan/
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#SingleDadsOfColor #Fatherhood #ParentingJourney #Resilience #AutismAwareness #TheDadProject #EqualCustody #ParentingChallenges #FatherhoodInspiration
In this impactful episode of The Dad Project Podcast, we sit down with Aaron Dale, founder of @raisingboys_2men, a thriving Instagram community with over 300,000 followers.
As a single father of two sons, Aaron shares his powerful insights into co-parenting, relationships, and fatherhood—wisdom he also shares on his hit podcast @raisingboys_2men.
Aaron has become a trusted voice in the parenting space, not just on his own platform but as a regular guest on other major podcasts. Drawing from his experiences as the child of a single mum and now as a devoted father himself, Aaron empowers parents with actionable advice to navigate co-parenting challenges and always put their kids first. In this episode, Aaron reflects on his personal journey, including the struggles of growing up without a father, the lessons learned through therapy and self-growth, and the importance of vulnerability and accountability as a parent. He shares practical strategies for building strong co-parenting relationships, navigating life as a single dad, and staying focused on what truly matters: the well-being of the children. This heartfelt conversation is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and actionable advice for parents and anyone passionate about supporting fatherhood. Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to Aaron Dale and his inspiring journey 01:24: Meeting Aaron Dale and starting The Dad Project 02:16: Aaron’s early days as a single father 04:06: Growing up without a father and its lasting impact 05:14: Co-parenting challenges and building trust 06:53: Scheduling time and staying connected with kids 08:26: Navigating step-parents and blended family dynamics 09:27: Letting go of control and focusing on children’s well-being 11:25: Therapy and its role in emotional healing 12:51: Releasing emotional baggage and stress 14:13: Accountability and growth as a father 15:44: The origins and mission of Raising Boys to Men 18:31: Aaron’s rise as a trusted parenting voice 20:47: Breaking stigmas around single fathers of colour 22:01: Strategies for successful co-parenting 24:28: The importance of trust and mutual respect 26:22: Embracing life’s challenges and finding purpose 28:14: Advice for new single dads on resilience and self-care 30:19: Maintaining consistency and leading by example 33:12: Overcoming stereotypes and negative perceptions 35:16: Recognising the vital role of the mother in co-parenting 39:09: Fostering positive male role models for young men 42:00: Managing finances and keeping the focus on kids 44:05: Closing reflections on growth, love, and fatherhood 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support The Dad Project and inspire more fathers to embrace their journey. Follow Aaron Dale Instagram: www.instagram.com/raisingboys_2men Podcast: www.youtube.com/@raisingboys_2men Follow The Dad Project Instagram: www.instagram.com/thedadprojecthq Facebook: www.facebook.com/thedadprojecthq TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@thedadprojecthq YouTube: @thedadprojecthq X (Twitter): www.x.com/thedadprojecthq LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-dad-project #SingleFather #Fatherhood #ParentingJourney #Resilience #SingleDadStories #TheDadProject #CoParenting #ParentingTips #FatherhoodAdvice #OvercomingChallenges