In this frank episode of Big Fellas, Darren takes centre stage to talk openly about men’s mental health, a subject that still carries far too much stigma. With the stark reality that one in eight men struggles with mental health issues, Darren shares his own experiences of stress, pressure, and recovery, shaped in part by his time working in the police.

He reflects on how societal expectations often push men to stay silent, convincing them they must “just get on with it”, even when they’re struggling. Darren challenges that mindset head-on, reinforcing that asking for help is not weakness — it’s strength.

The conversation explores the warning signs of poor mental health, the importance of professional support, and how physical activity, community, and honest conversations can play a vital role in recovery. This episode is a call to action for men to prioritise their mental wellbeing and to support each other by creating a culture where it’s safe to talk.

Key Takeaways:

• One in eight men experiences mental health issues, yet many suffer in silence.
• Stigma and social expectations often stop men from seeking help.
• Asking for support is a vital step toward recovery, not a sign of weakness.
• Darren shares how his policing career impacted his mental health over time.
• Physical activity, including football, can significantly support mental well-being.
• Open conversations and community support are essential for long-term mental health.

🎯 Sponsored by Man v Fat

Looking after your mental health starts with looking after your physical health too. Join Man v Fat for accountability, community, and support. Sign up today with code BIGFELLAS and get £1 registration:

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In this powerful episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark sit down with Chris, who shares his incredible story of losing ten and a half stone, a transformation built on consistency, mindset, and a complete shift in how he viewed food and health.

Chris opens up about the struggles that came before his success, from battling with food choices and emotional eating to learning the importance of accountability. He explains how surrounding himself with the right people, including trainers and supportive communities, helped him stay on track even when motivation was low.

The conversation digs into both the physical and mental sides of transformation, exploring how changing your relationship with food, building structure into daily life, and finding purpose through fitness can completely reshape your future.

Chris’s journey is a true reminder that it’s never too late to change, and that progress comes not from perfection, but from persistence.

Key Takeaways:

• Chris lost 10½ stone through consistency, structure, and self-discipline.
• Accountability, from trainers, friends, and the MvF community, was key to his success.
• Shifting mindset to see food as fuel, not comfort, is crucial for long-term change.
• Mental strength and emotional awareness are vital to overcoming setbacks.
• Weight loss is possible at any stage — all it takes is a single decision to start.
• Community support makes the journey easier and more enjoyable.

🎯 Sponsored by Man v Fat

Find your community and start your own transformation. Join Man v Fat today with code BIGFELLAS and get £1 registration:

👉 https://manvfatfootball.org/

In this deeply personal and reflective solo episode of Big Fellas, host Mark Hall opens up about his lifelong journey with weight loss in a raw and emotional conversation, this time, with the help of ChatGPT.

Mark takes listeners back to his childhood, sharing his earliest memories of being teased about his weight and how those moments shaped his self-esteem, friendships, and confidence. He speaks candidly about the emotional connection he developed with food and how it became both a comfort and a challenge throughout his life.

As the episode unfolds, Mark discusses key turning points that pushed him toward change — from a difficult moment in his professional life to finding structure and success with the Cambridge Weight Plan. He reflects on the power of accountability, the unwavering support of his partner, and the lessons learned through years of weight fluctuations.

This isn’t just a story about losing weight; it’s a story about resilience, self-awareness, and the ongoing process of becoming healthier both physically and mentally. Mark’s openness serves as a powerful reminder that every journey has setbacks, but with the right mindset and support, progress is always possible.

Key Takeaways:

• Mark’s early experiences with teasing and body image shaped his relationship with food.
• Emotional eating played a major role throughout his life, especially during stressful times.
• A challenging moment in his career became the catalyst for positive change.
• Accountability — through his partner and the podcast — helps him stay consistent.
• Weight loss is never linear; every experience contributes to long-term growth.
• Health is an ongoing journey that requires self-awareness, support, and patience.

🎯 Sponsored by Man v Fat

Join a community built to help men lose weight, stay accountable, and find support. Sign up for Man v Fat today with code BIGFELLAS and get £1 registration:

👉 https://manvfatfootball.org/