Episodes

  • Lessons from a Navy SEAL: David Havens on Mindset and Health
    Feb 3 2025

    Darren and Mark engage in a profound dialogue with David Havens, an esteemed ex-Navy SEAL and author of "The Simple Plan." The episode primarily elucidates the significance of mindset in the pursuit of health and fitness. David articulates his comprehensive approach, encapsulated in the acronym "SIMPLE," which emphasizes the paramount importance of adequate sleep, structured meal timing, and prioritizing personal well-being. Through his military experience and personal journey, he conveys that success in weight loss and overall health is not merely a matter of rigorous exercise or strict dieting but a commitment to consistency and a well-rounded lifestyle. Listeners are invited to contemplate their health journeys and embrace the actionable insights provided throughout this enlightening conversation.

    A profound exploration of health and mindset unfolds through the conversation between Darren, Mark, and their distinguished guest, David Havens, a former Navy SEAL and author of 'The Simple Plan'. In this episode, Havens delineates a comprehensive approach to weight loss and overall well-being, emphasizing the importance of a structured plan encompassing sleep, nutrition, and consistent exercise routines. He introduces the 'SIMPLE' acronym, elucidating its components: Sleep, Intermittent fasting, Minimizing sugar, Prioritizing oneself, Living life fully, and Executing with unwavering consistency. Each element is not merely a suggestion but a foundational pillar that contributes to achieving sustainable health goals. Havens' insights, drawn from his extensive military background and personal experiences, offer listeners actionable strategies to enhance their lifestyle choices and embark on their own transformative journeys.

    Through a poignant discussion, the interview delves into the psychological aspects of maintaining discipline and the necessity of adopting a mindset geared towards success. Havens articulates the significance of quality sleep as a prerequisite for effective weight management, suggesting that it lays the groundwork for cognitive function and emotional resilience. He underscores the necessity of aligning one's daily schedule with health objectives, thereby fostering a conducive environment for personal growth and physical transformation. This episode serves not only as a motivational guide but also as a pragmatic resource for individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of health and fitness in their lives, reinforcing the idea that small, consistent changes can yield profound long-term results.

    Takeaways:

    • David Havens emphasizes the profound importance of sleep, space, and schedule in achieving weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
    • The acronym of the 'Simple Plan' consists of six key components, each focusing on critical aspects of physical and mental health.
    • Intermittent fasting and minimizing sugar intake are highlighted as pivotal strategies for effective weight management and overall well-being.
    • Consistency in following a structured plan is essential, according to Havens, for sustaining motivation and achieving long-term health goals.
    • Mindset plays a crucial role in success; individuals are encouraged to identify their motivations and prioritize their health.
    • David Havens advocates for a balanced approach to diet and exercise, suggesting that individuals should gradually implement changes to avoid overwhelming themselves.

    Do you want to find out more about David's work, check out his Linktree here: https://linktr.ee/davidhavens

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

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Weight Loss Loser: Chris Wooding's Journey to a Healthier Life
    Jan 27 2025

    Chris Wooding shares his inspiring weight loss journey, having lost an impressive 45 kilos by making practical lifestyle changes. He emphasised the importance of tracking food intake and being honest with oneself about eating habits, which helped him understand where he was going wrong. Chris discusses the significance of incorporating regular physical activity, such as playing football, into his routine, which not only aided his weight loss but also improved his energy levels and overall well-being. He highlights the small victories along the way, from fitting into rides at amusement parks to enjoying family meals without feeling restricted. Tune in as Chris and the Big Fellas, Mark and Darren, explore the ups and downs of weight loss, the power of community support, and the joy of living a healthier life.

    Takeaways:

    • Chris Wooding emphasizes the importance of tracking food intake to understand eating habits better.
    • Adopting a simple approach of diet and exercise can lead to significant weight loss results.
    • The support of a community, such as a football group, can enhance motivation on weight loss journeys.
    • Making gradual changes to one’s diet is often more sustainable than drastic alterations.
    • Celebrating non-scale victories, like fitting into smaller clothes, helps maintain motivation during weight loss.
    • Being honest with oneself about eating habits is crucial for long-term weight loss success.

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

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

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

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    42 mins
  • The Shocking Truth About Ultra-Processed Foods and Weight Loss with Dr. Lisa Clift
    Jan 20 2025

    This episode delves into the impact of ultra-processed foods on weight loss, with insights from Dr Lisa Clift, a specialist in weight management for men. Mark and Darren explore how these foods, often laden with additives and sugars, can disrupt our body’s natural signals, leading to increased hunger and overconsumption. They discuss the importance of understanding food labels and making informed choices, highlighting that many seemingly healthy options, like low-fat products, can be misleading. The conversation also touches on practical tips for incorporating more whole foods into your diet, alongside the challenges of navigating a food landscape dominated by convenience and marketing. Listeners are encouraged to rethink their eating habits and consider the nutritional quality of the foods they consume for better health outcomes.

    Takeaways:

    • Ultra-processed foods are engineered to be hyper-palatable, leading to increased consumption and addiction.
    • Understanding food labels is crucial; if you don't recognise an ingredient, it's likely ultra-processed.
    • The food matrix, including fibre content, significantly affects how our bodies metabolise sugars.
    • Diet sodas and sugar-free drinks can trigger insulin responses, making you feel hungrier.
    • Real food, such as whole fruits and vegetables, is essential for good health and weight management.
    • Engaging with apps like Yuka can help identify ultra-processed foods and healthier alternatives.

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

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

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

    You can find out more about the amazing Dr Lisa Clift and her work specialising in Obesity Medicine for Men, she is a GP and lifestyle doctor. Working in the NHS and privately. Her website is www.drlisalifestylemedicine.com

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    45 mins
  • Bonus Episode - Beyond BMI: A Deep Dive into Obesity Measurement
    Jan 16 2025

    This episode delves into the limitations of the Body Mass Index (BMI) as a measure of obesity, highlighting its inability to account for factors like muscle mass and visceral fat. Mark and Darren are joined by Dr. Lisa Clift, who shares her insights on BMI and discusses alternative metrics such as the Body Roundness Index and waist-to-hip ratios. They explore how BMI can misclassify athletes like Anthony Joshua as obese, raising concerns about its effectiveness for the general population. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of visceral fat and waist circumference in assessing health risks. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to better evaluate their health beyond just BMI, and the importance of personalized assessments in weight management.

    Takeaways:

    • BMI is a simple calculation but lacks detail and nuance in assessing obesity.
    • Visceral fat is more concerning than overall body weight when evaluating health risks.
    • Relying solely on BMI can misclassify athletes and individuals with high muscle mass.
    • Waist circumference measurements can provide better insights into obesity-related health issues.
    • The Body Roundness Index might be a more accurate alternative to BMI for assessing health.
    • It's crucial to consider individual lifestyle factors, not just BMI, for weight management.
    • Your waist measurement should be less than 94cm, 94 to 102cm is considered high risk and over 102cm is considered very high risk.

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

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

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

    You can learn more about the amazing Dr Lisa Clift and her work specialising in Obesity Medicine for Men, she is a GP and lifestyle doctor. Working in the NHS and privately. Her website is www.drlisalifestylemedicine.com

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    18 mins
  • Breaking the Stigma: Obesity as a Disease with Dr. Lisa Clift
    Jan 13 2025

    Dr Lisa Clift joins the Big Fellas podcast to discuss obesity as a chronic disease, emphasizing the importance of treating it with dignity and understanding rather than stigma. With 69% of men experiencing overweight or obesity, yet only a small percentage seeking help, the conversation highlights the critical need for accessible weight management services. Dr. Clift shares insights on the various causes of obesity, including genetic factors and the obesogenic environment that surrounds us, which often promotes unhealthy eating habits. The discussion also delves into treatment options ranging from lifestyle changes to medications and bariatric surgery, stressing that effective solutions must be personalized to each individual's circumstances. Ultimately, the episode encourages men to seek help and emphasizes that addressing obesity is not just about personal health, but also about societal well-being and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

    Takeaways:

    • Understanding obesity as a chronic illness is essential for effective treatment and prevention.
    • Men often face stigma around seeking weight loss help, leading to underutilization of services.
    • Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, are crucial for long-term weight loss success.
    • The conversation around obesity should focus on dignity and respect for individuals living with it.
    • New medications for weight loss can significantly aid in achieving a healthier body weight.
    • Preventing obesity requires addressing environmental factors and the food industry’s role in it.

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

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

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

    You can find out more about the amazing Dr Lisa Clift and her work specialising in Obesity Medicine for Men, she is a GP and lifestyle doctor. Working in the NHS and privately. Her website is www.drlisalifestylemedicine.com

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    43 mins
  • Bonus Episode: Is Your Food Making You Ill? The Kraft-Heinz Lawsuit Explained!
    Jan 9 2025

    In this Bonus episode, Darren and Mark discuss Morgan and Morgan, a law firm in the United States, is taking Kraft Heinz to court over allegations that their ultra-processed foods are designed to be over-consumed, contributing to chronic illnesses like type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, particularly among children. Mark and Darren dive into the implications of this lawsuit, discussing how the landscape of food consumption has changed dramatically over the past few decades, with ultra-processed foods making up a staggering 73% of the U.S. food supply. They explore the difference between processed and ultra-processed foods, emphasizing the health risks associated with the latter. The conversation also touches on the tactics used by food conglomerates that parallel those of the tobacco industry, raising concerns about consumer awareness and the marketing of seemingly healthy options. As they unpack these critical issues, Mark and Darren aim to equip listeners with the knowledge to make informed dietary choices amidst a confusing food environment.

    Takeaways:

    • Morgan and Morgan are suing Kraft Heinz for designing food that leads to overconsumption and chronic illness.
    • The rise of type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease in children has become alarming in recent decades.
    • Ultra-processed foods are significantly affecting our health and are more harmful than regular processed foods.
    • There's a strong connection between marketing strategies used in the tobacco industry and the food industry.
    • Eating local, minimally processed foods can be beneficial for both health and the environment.
    • Awareness and education about ultra-processed foods are crucial for making informed dietary choices.

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

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

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

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    17 mins
  • Lose weight with Football: Head of Man Vs Fat Richard Crick on Weight Loss and Team Spirit
    Jan 6 2025

    Join Darren and Mark as they delve into the transformative world of Man vs Fat with Richard Crick, the head of this innovative weight loss football initiative. The episode highlights how Man vs Fat not only encourages men to lose weight through the camaraderie of football but also fosters a supportive community that addresses mental health and personal well-being. Richard shares inspiring success stories of participants who have achieved significant weight loss milestones, and how the program creates accountability through team dynamics. The discussion also touches on the importance of inclusivity, emphasizing that men of all sizes can find a welcoming environment in which to pursue their health goals. With insights into the growth of Man vs Fat and its expansion into rugby, this episode is both motivating and enlightening for anyone looking to embark on their own weight loss journey.

    Takeaways:

    • Man vs Fat provides a unique community for men seeking weight loss support through football.
    • The program emphasizes accountability, gamification, and peer support to encourage weight loss.
    • Richard Crick highlights the success stories of men who have transformed their lives through the initiative.
    • Participants often experience significant weight loss, improving both their physical health and mental well-being.
    • The importance of camaraderie among players fosters a supportive environment for all participants.
    • Over 700,000 pounds (more than 300 tons!) have been collectively lost by participants since the inception of Man vs Fat.

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

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

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

    As mentioned you can access the Man Vs Fat YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@manvfat

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    50 mins
  • Bonus Episode: The Power of Keto - How Darren Lost Half His Body Weight
    Jan 1 2025

    Darren Lloyd joins the Big Fellas Podcast to share his incredible journey of losing half his body weight, dropping from 24 stone to just under 12 stone. His transformation, achieved through a ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting, not only improved his physical health but also reversed his diabetes. Throughout the conversation, Darren discusses the challenges he faced, the motivation behind his drastic lifestyle changes, and the importance of understanding how carbohydrates impact weight and health. He emphasizes that while exercise is beneficial, the key to weight loss lies primarily in dietary choices. This episode serves as an inspiring reminder that significant change is possible, and Darren's story encourages listeners to take control of their health and make informed decisions.

    Takeaways:

    • Darren shares his incredible journey of losing half his body weight in 16 months.
    • He emphasizes the importance of diet over exercise for significant weight loss success.
    • Intermittent fasting combined with a ketogenic diet helped him suppress hunger effectively.
    • Darren's story highlights the need for better guidance on diabetes and obesity management.
    • He encourages listeners to research and question traditional dietary advice for better health outcomes.
    • Darren advocates for a high-fat, low-carb diet to manage blood sugar levels and improve overall health.

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

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

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

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    1 hr and 2 mins