In this heart-centered episode of Barbell Conversations, Breadfruit sits down with Floris Vermeulen—a Dutch native who's spent the past eight years living in Barbados—to explore what it means to build and sustain healthy, lasting relationships. With a rich personal and professional background that spans multiple countries, Floris reflects on his journey as a husband of 20 years, a father to two teenage boys, and a global citizen navigating love, identity, and commitment. As his chapter in Barbados comes to a close, the conversation dives into what it takes for men to show up with emotional presence, vulnerability, and growth in their most intimate bonds.

Together, they explore how childhood patterns, unspoken wounds, and personal values shape the way we love and lead in relationships. From the impact of fatherhood to understanding love languages, emotional saboteurs, and the daily choices that strengthen connection, this episode offers powerful insights for men striving to break cycles and lead with intention. As Floris puts it, relationships are a “people-growing machine”—they reveal the parts of us that still need healing and push us to evolve, if we’re willing to do the work. Whether you're in a relationship, healing from one, or preparing for one, Floris’ perspective reminds us that relationships aren’t just for comfort—they’re for growth.

🎧 Stay tuned for more real convos. Follow @beardedbreadfruit and @barbellconvopod to join the movement. #BreadfruitSzn #BarbellConversations

In this episode of Barbell Conversations, Breadfruit is joined by Rommell Marshall for a stylish yet deeply real conversation on confidence, appearance, and the hidden emotional battles men often carry behind their image.

The two explore how fashion, grooming, and fitness influence a man's self-worth — and how those same tools can sometimes be used to mask pain or insecurity. From growing up in Barbados and feeling pressure to look strong, to using gym culture and fashion as a way to navigate identity, Rommell opens up about the relationship between style and vulnerability.

They discuss the silent pressure many men face to “look the part” even when they’re mentally struggling, and how self-expression through clothing can either uplift or hide someone’s truth. Rommell also shares how intentional dressing affects mood and mindset, and offers encouragement for men curious about exploring their own style without fear of judgment. This episode breaks down stereotypes around masculinity, reminding listeners that real confidence is about embracing who you are, inside and out.

Follow Rommell and keep up with his journey on Instagram at @not.normell

🎧 Stay tuned for more real convos. Follow @beardedbreadfruit and @barbellconvopod to join the movement. #BreadfruitSzn #BarbellConversations

In this powerful episode of Barbell Conversations, Breadfruit sits down with Corey “Narkside” Springer — singer, author, master trainer, and philanthropist — for a deeply personal and philosophical dialogue that goes beyond the weights. Corey’s influence on Breadfruit’s fitness journey takes center stage, setting the tone for the podcast’s direction.

Together, they dive into the contrast between functional fitness and ego lifting, and how body image, societal expectations, and gym culture can shape or distort men’s perception of strength and progress. Corey unpacks how Barbadian society, cultural definitions, and modern masculinity often collide, especially for men navigating expectations of what it means to be “strong.”

The conversation also explores the emotional terrain often overlooked in male spaces — including the dehumanization of men, mental health stigma, and generational resistance to vulnerability. Corey shares his personal reflections on depression, anxiety, and the transformative power of therapy and friendship. From fitness as a mirror of life to rethinking how men build friendships, this episode encourages a holistic approach to wellness that embraces both mental and physical strength. It's a candid, thoughtful exploration of what masculinity can look like — rooted in resilience, community, and compassion.

Follow Corey and keep up with his journey on Instagram at @narkside and @hey_narq.

Stay tuned for more episodes and follow @beardedbreadfruit and @barbellconvopod on social media for updates. Let’s continue building stronger men and communities. #BreadfruitSzn