Best Darren Ockenden Podcasts (2025)

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Fasting Explained: Intermittent Fasting, Health Benefits & How to Get Started 32:09

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6h ago32:09

32:09

In this episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark take a deep dive into fasting, breaking down what it really means, the different methods people use, and how it can support weight loss and better health. They explore popular approaches such as the 5:2 diet and the 16:8 method, sharing their own experiences with fasting and how it has influenced their…

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From 26 Stone to Marathon Training: Dan’s 10 Stone Weight Loss Story 35:35

7d ago35:35

35:35

In this inspiring episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark sit down with Dan, who has transformed his life by losing over 10 stone after once weighing 26 stone. His journey is one of resilience, mindset, and the power of community through the Man v Fat programme. Dan opens up about the pivotal moments that sparked his commitment to change, from his f…

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Food, Fitness & Finding Balance: Nutrition and Exercise for Weight Loss 21:45

14d ago21:45

21:45

In this episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark break down the two pillars of a successful weight loss journey: nutrition and exercise. They share their own experiences of swapping processed foods for home-cooked meals, how small changes in diet can make a big difference, and why balance (not perfection) is the key to staying consistent. The lads al…

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One Year of Big Fellas: Reflections, Milestones & What’s Next 48:35

21d ago48:35

48:35

This special episode marks one year of the Big Fellas Podcast! Darren and Mark take a trip down memory lane, revisiting the car park conversation after a Man v Fat game that sparked the idea for the show. Since then, Big Fellas has grown into a platform that’s reached nearly 10,000 downloads, sharing real men’s stories and tackling the ups and down…

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Losing 25 Stone (351 Pounds): Lee's Incredible Journey of Resilience 37:05

28d ago37:05

37:05

In this unforgettable episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark sit down with Lee Ashbourne, a man who has achieved the extraordinary, losing a staggering 25 stone (351 pounds). Lee opens up about his past struggles, including a devastating accident that left him housebound and unable to move for nearly 16 years. From an initial weight of over 47 ston…

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Mounjaro Price Hike: What a 170% Increase Means for Weight Loss 25:16

1M ago25:16

25:16

In this episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark tackle the shocking news that the cost of Mounjaro, a leading weight loss medication, is set to rise by a staggering 170%. They break down why this price increase is happening, from the initial pricing strategies used to gain traction to the wider implications for people relying on the drug. With affor…

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Gut Health, Allergies & Eczema: Tommy’s Journey to Better Health 35:09

1M ago35:09

35:09

In this episode of Big Fellas, Mark is joined by fitness coach Tommy, who brings a wealth of knowledge in integrative health, shaped by his own battles with eczema, allergies, and gut issues. Tommy explains how poor gut health can affect everything from skin conditions to allergies, sleep, and even weight loss. He shares the science behind nutrient…

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Six Stone Down: Michael Burke on Life-Changing Weight Loss with Mounjaro 45:01

2M ago45:01

45:01

In this episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark sit down with Michael to hear the incredible story of his six-stone weight loss, and the role Mounjaro played in his transformation. Michael opens up about the turning point that made him take action: struggling with sleep apnea at 140 kilos and knowing something had to change. He shares the steps he t…

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From 19 Stone to Ultra-Marathons: Aaron’s Man v Fat Transformation 31:30

2M ago31:30

31:30

This week on Big Fellas, Darren and Mark are joined by Aaron, a standout member of the Man v Fat community and winner of the Most Active Player award. Aaron shares his incredible transformation story, going from 19 stone to training for Ultra Marathons. But this isn’t just about the physical change. Aaron opens up about the mental and emotional sid…

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Caffeine Chaos: How Energy Drinks Affect Your Health 30:10

2M ago30:10

30:10

In this episode of Big Fellas, Darren and Mark take a deep dive into the world of energy drinks, a modern habit many men don’t think twice about. From caffeine overload to disrupted sleep and cravings that sabotage weight loss goals, they unpack the hidden dangers behind the shiny cans. The lads break it all down in their usual straight-talking sty…

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From Army Life to Parliament: Ben Obese-Jecty on Leadership, Responsibility & Men's Health 26:49

3M ago26:49

26:49

In this episode, Darren and Mark are joined by Ben Obese-Jecty, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Huntingdonshire. Ben shares his inspiring journey from the front lines of Iraq and Afghanistan to the corridors of Westminster. With honest reflections on military life, public service, and what drives him to make a difference, Ben opens up ab…

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Gut Health, Weight Loss & Feeling Better – with Nutritionist Sam Brown 47:44

3M ago47:44

47:44

This week, Mark sits down with Sam Brown, a gut health specialist and nutritionist, to talk about how what’s going on in your gut could be the key to feeling better, losing weight, and boosting your mood. Sam shares her powerful story of living with Crohn’s disease and how she turned things around by changing her diet. That experience led her to he…

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Football Drop Podcast Joins Big Fellas: A Healthy Alliance 50:53

3M ago50:53

50:53

This episode is the coming together of football and weight loss, as we welcome Ben and Will from the Football Drop Podcast. Together, we explore how engaging in football can serve as a catalyst for achieving weight loss goals and promoting a healthier lifestyle. Our conversation highlights the importance of community support within the Man v Fat le…

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HALF-TIME: Are You Winning in 2025? 19:19

3M ago19:19

19:19

We’re halfway through 2025, so it’s time for a team talk. In this special “half-time” episode, Darren and Mark step off the pitch to reflect on the first six months of the year. Whether you've been smashing your goals or sliding into your old habits, this is your chance to reset, refocus, and get ready for the second half. We talk honestly about ho…

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Meet Dexter: The Youngest Man V Fat Hall of Famer 32:55

4M ago32:55

32:55

Darren and Mark are accompanied by the distinguished Dexter, a celebrated member of the Man V Fat Hall of Fame, who has achieved remarkable success in his weight loss journey. Dexter has commendably lost an impressive ten stone through the programme, a testament to his dedication and resilience. Throughout our discussion, we explored the methodolog…

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The Testosterone Dilemma: Unveiling the Impact of Low Levels on Men's Health 16:34

4M ago16:34

16:34

The discussion surrounding testosterone, the principal male hormone, reveals its profound influence on various aspects of male health, particularly the detrimental effects associated with its deficiency. In our exploration, we elucidate how a lack of testosterone can manifest in symptoms such as diminished libido, erectile dysfunction, and a notabl…

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From Heavyweight to Hall of Fame: Josh's Inspiring 60kg Weight Loss Journey 44:33

4M ago44:33

44:33

The remarkable journey of Josh Deegan, a Man v Fat Hall of Fame inductee, serves as a testament to the transformative power of determination and community in the realm of weight loss. Having achieved a staggering loss of 60 kilos, equivalent to nearly nine and a half stone, Josh recounts his experiences and the pivotal moments that led him to this …

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Heart Disease: The Leading Cause of death in the UK Explained by a Cardiac Nurse Specialist 35:02

4M ago35:02

35:02

In this episode, Darren and Mark talk with Gill, a Cardiac Nurse Specialist and Wellbeing coach, to discuss the critical topic of heart health. They explore Gill's extensive experience in cardiology, the causes and prevention of heart disease, the importance of early warning signs, and the role of lifestyle changes such as weight loss, exercise, an…

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MvF Week: Empowering Change with Andrew, Head Coach of Tonbridge 17:49

4M ago17:49

17:49

This episode revolves around the significant role of community in weight loss, as exemplified by the experiences shared by Andrew, the head coach of Tonbridge. Andrew discusses his profound enjoyment in coaching and the encouraging atmosphere within the Tonbridge team, where camaraderie and mutual support are paramount. He highlights the impressive…

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MvF Week: Inspiring Change - The Role of Community in Weight Loss 20:12

4M ago20:12

20:12

This podcast episode features an enlightening discussion with Callum Nichols, the head coach of Kidderminster, as he delves into the intricacies of the Man vs Fat initiative. Central to our conversation is Callum's transformative role within the league, where he has successfully guided participants in their weight loss journeys while fostering a ro…

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MvF Week: Success Beyond Goals - Man Vs Fat's Charity Efforts in Crewe 25:14

4M ago25:14

25:14

Darren engages in a compelling discussion with Aaron, the head coach of the notable Man Vs Fat club in Crewe, focusing on the remarkable successes achieved both on and off the pitch. This episode encapsulates the transformative impact of the Man Vs Fat initiative, highlighting the club's ability to foster a supportive environment for individuals em…

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MvF Week: Chester's Man Vs Fat Success with head coach Vicky 14:21

4M ago14:21

14:21

Today, we delve into the inspiring realms of Chester's Man Vs Fat initiative, where men embark on transformative journeys toward weight loss through the medium of football. Our esteemed guest, Vicky Healey, serves as the head coach at the Chester League and brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the conversation. Vicky elucidates the pivotal r…

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MvF Week: The formation of Man Vs Fat 54:34

4M ago54:34

54:34

Mark engages in a deep discussion with Andrew Shanahan, the founder of Man Vs Fat, during the inaugural segment of our dedicated Man Vs Fat week, coinciding with the anticipation of the forthcoming Man Vs Fat awards. The salient achievement of Man Vs Fat Football is encapsulated in the staggering collective weight loss of 371,015 kilograms, a figur…

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Beyond the Midlife Crisis: Conversations on Health, Happiness, and Growth 1:00:00

5M ago1:00:00

1:00:00

The salient point of this podcast episode centers around the nuanced experiences of middle-aged men, particularly as they navigate the complexities of life during this transitional phase. We engage in a profound discussion with Volker and David from the "Man Up, Man Down" podcast, delving into the myriad challenges that confront men in their fortie…

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The AI Diet with Darren and Mark 20:32

5M ago20:32

20:32

The primary focus of this podcast episode is the innovative application of artificial intelligence in devising a personalised diet strategy, which Darren refers to as the "AI diet." Through the utilisation of ChatGPT, Darren has successfully formulated a comprehensive meal plan, meticulously calculated his caloric and macronutrient requirements, an…

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Unlocking Success: Ryan Swales Shares His Weight Loss Experience 35:47

5M ago35:47

35:47

Ryan Swales shares his remarkable weight loss journey, achieving a significant reduction of over three stone. As we delve into his experiences, we explore not only the physical transformation but also the mental fortitude required to undertake such a journey. Ryan articulates the pivotal moment that compelled him to confront his weight, detailing t…

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Falling Off the Wagon: The Big Fellas' Food Struggles 18:42

5M ago18:42

18:42

Darren and Mark the Big Fellas candidly recount their recent struggles with dietary discipline, shedding light on the all-too-common experience of faltering on their weight loss journeys. Both hosts express a sense of accountability as they acknowledge the lapse in their commitment to healthy eating, revealing the complexities of navigating temptat…

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Unlearning Masculinity: A Journey Towards Emotional Freedom 44:36

6M ago44:36

44:36

Cassandra Andrews, a distinguished author and seasoned coach, joins us to elucidate her latest literary endeavour, "Unlearning Masculinity." The primary focus of this episode is to explore how high-achieving men, particularly those over the age of 40, can liberate themselves from the restrictive beliefs associated with traditional masculinity. Cass…

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Body Image Battles: How Weight Affects Our Self-Perception 27:41

6M ago27:41

27:41

Weight and body image are profoundly intertwined with one's self-confidence, a theme explored in our latest discussion. We delve into the intricate relationship between being overweight and the resultant impact on personal confidence and identity. Both of us reflect on our own experiences with body image during formative years, acknowledging how so…

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Achieving Balance: Rob Dunn on Fitness, Wellness, and Jiu Jitsu 58:34

6M ago58:34

58:34

Rob Dunn, a distinguished fitness trainer and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast, articulates a holistic approach to wellness that integrates physical fitness with mental health. He emphasizes the importance of structure and routine in managing time effectively, particularly for busy professionals. Rob elucidates that fitness is not solely about rigoro…

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Mark's Journey with Mounjaro: A Personal Account of Weight Loss Challenges 20:34

6M ago20:34

20:34

Mark's recent experience with Mounjaro, the weight loss medication, serves as the focal point of our discussion. In this episode, we delve into the nuances of Mark's journey, reflecting on his significant weight loss of 28 kilos through the Cambridge Weight Plan before transitioning to Mounjaro. While he initially anticipated positive outcomes from…

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The Busy Dad's Guide to Staying Fit 1:06:17

7M ago1:06:17

1:06:17

The conversation with PT Kyle O'Sullivan, a recent father, delves into the intricate dynamics of maintaining fitness and managing weight loss amidst the multifaceted demands of contemporary life. The primary discourse elucidates the challenges faced by busy men, particularly new fathers, who grapple with the dual responsibilities of parenthood and …

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The Power of Persistence: How Ben Shed 1/3 of His Weight with Man Vs Fat 59:08

7M ago59:08

59:08

Ben Millington shares his remarkable journey of losing one-third of his body weight through the Man Vs Fat program. His transformation exemplifies the significance of consistency and setting achievable goals in the pursuit of weight loss. Through a combination of a disciplined diet, intermittent fasting, and engaging in physical activity such as fo…

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Revolutionizing Weight Loss: The E-Pulse Studio Experience 35:52

7M ago35:52

35:52

The e-pulse studio, represented by Kamil and Troy, offers a revolutionary approach to weight loss that amalgamates cutting-edge technology with a holistic understanding of fitness and nutrition. During our engaging discussion, I was particularly struck by how their innovative electro muscle stimulation training can yield results equivalent to three…

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Navigating Alcohol's Impact on Your Weight Loss Journey 41:54

7M ago41:54

41:54

The discourse presented herein elucidates the intricate relationship between alcohol consumption and weight loss, a topic of considerable significance for individuals pursuing healthier lifestyles. It is asserted that excessive alcohol intake may impede weight loss efforts, as it introduces a substantial number of empty calories devoid of nutrition…

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Neal Bendesky 199-Pound (14.2 St) Weight Loss Story - The Journey of Resilience 57:30

7M ago57:30

57:30

Neal Bendesky, renowned as the "199 Pound Guy," graces our podcast with his extraordinary narrative of resilience and transformation. Having triumphed over a staggering weight loss of 199 pounds (14.2 Stone), along with the formidable challenges of a heart attack and cancer, Neal epitomizes the indomitable spirit of human perseverance. His fervent …

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Scott's Journey: A Man's Perspective on Slimming World 53:40

8M ago53:40

53:40

Scott, a representative of Slimming World, joins us in dismantling the pervasive misconception that this weight management program is exclusively for women. His journey of significant weight loss (an impressive eight stone) demonstrates that Slimming World is indeed a viable option for men seeking to improve their health and well-being. Throughout …

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Lessons from a Navy SEAL: David Havens on Mindset and Health 1:04:52

8M ago1:04:52

1:04:52

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…

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Weight Loss Loser: Chris Wooding's Journey to a Healthier Life 41:54

8M ago41:54

41:54

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 phys…

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The Shocking Truth About Ultra-Processed Foods and Weight Loss with Dr. Lisa Clift 44:44

8M ago44:44

44:44

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…

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Bonus Episode - Beyond BMI: A Deep Dive into Obesity Measurement 17:30

9M ago17:30

17:30

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. T…

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Breaking the Stigma: Obesity as a Disease with Dr. Lisa Clift 43:23

9M ago43:23

43:23

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 …

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Bonus Episode: Is Your Food Making You Ill? The Kraft-Heinz Lawsuit Explained! 17:05

9M ago17:05

17:05

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 Darr…

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Lose weight with Football: Head of Man Vs Fat Richard Crick on Weight Loss and Team Spirit 50:02

9M ago50:02

50:02

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 pers…

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Bonus Episode: The Power of Keto - How Darren Lost Half His Body Weight 1:02:13

9M ago1:02:13

1:02:13

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 t…

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Cheers to 2024: Recapping Our Weight Loss Wins and Podcast Highlights! 53:36

9M ago53:36

53:36

Mark and Darren take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey they embarked upon with the launch of the Big Fellas Podcast on September 9, 2024. As they celebrate three months of insightful conversations and community engagement, the hosts share their thoughts on the key highlights that have shaped their podcasting experience. They discuss the…

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How Georgette and the Cambridge Weight Plan Helped Mark Shed 4 Stone! 53:35

9M ago53:35

53:35

Darren and Mark welcome Georgette Louis to the Big Fellas Podcast to discuss the Cambridge Weight Plan, a program that played a crucial role in Mark's weight loss journey, helping him shed an impressive four stone. Georgette, a knowledgeable consultant, explains how the plan works, emphasizing its personalized approach tailored to individual needs …

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The Big Fellas' Guide to Surviving Christmas Feasts 35:20

10M ago35:20

35:20

Darren and Mark dive into the festive season and its impact on weight loss journeys, emphasizing that indulging during Christmas doesn't have to derail progress. They share their personal holiday traditions, from breakfasts to buffets, and discuss the challenges of maintaining healthy habits amidst the abundance of festive treats. Both hosts highli…

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What We Learned After Shedding 10 Stone 28:56

10M ago28:56

28:56

Darren and Mark delve into the transformative experience of life after losing a significant amount of weight, discussing the health benefits, changes in clothing, and the overall impact on their lives. Together, they have shed 10 stone, but both emphasize that their weight loss journeys are far from over. They share their struggles and insights, su…

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From Premier League Champion to Championing Healthy Habits for Kids 45:19

10M ago45:19

45:19

The Big Fellas Podcast welcomes Luke Chadwick, an ex-professional footballer who played for clubs like Manchester United and Norwich City, to discuss the important theme of "the apple not falling far from the tree." As overweight men, it's crucial to recognize how our habits can influence our children's lifestyles, particularly regarding health and…