Understanding Men
Luke Sutton
Understanding Men is a podcast that challenges expectations around traditional masculinity and explores difficult subjects in the hopes of creating a safe space for men to be vulnerable. The hosts, Luke Sutton and Fraser Franks, both ex-professional sportsmen, have spoken openly about their own experiences with addiction, alcoholism, poor physical health, and poor mental health. Now they're sharing their stories in the hopes that they'll inspire listeners to do the same within their own relationships. Every week, Luke and Fraser will explore subjects that they feel men rarely make time to talk about. Insecurities, relationships, ego, expectations, fears and mistakes - n...
Taking a Break
In the final episode of Season 1 of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser reflect on their journey over the last 14 months, and share how life has change since they started the podcast. They look back on some of their favourite episodes and share their hopes for the next season of Understanding Men.Luke and Fraser want your ideas for Season 2! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. While the guys are away, keep up
Dec 2, 2024 • 25:12
The Function of Therapy
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser take a deep dive into therapy and it's various uses. Sharing their own experiences with varying types of therapy throughout their lives, they illustrate how effective it has been in helping them to live well rounded lives. They talk about how other organisations and activities in their lives have been therapeutic, including attendances at Alcoholics Anonymous, meditation, sound baths and water therapy. They also investigate why therapy is mor
Nov 18, 2024 • 50:20
A Small Announcement...
Instead of the regular episode this week, we have a small announcement just to update you on how the podcast is going to work for a little while. As ever, Luke and Fraser want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram @understandingmenpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 11, 2024 • 1:03
Talking Politics
On the eve of the US election, Luke and Fraser take the opportunity to discuss politics and its effect on each of their lives. They discuss their understanding of UK and US politics, and share how their upbringing has shaped their views.They highlight their reasons for their interest or disinterest in politics, and demonstrate how political decisions have had a direct effect on themselves and those around them. Looking at the US election, they dissect the impact the young male vote may have in d
Nov 4, 2024 • 44:22
The Reality of Fame
Trigger warning: This episode includes subjects such as suicide and substance abuse, which some individuals may find distressing.Motivated by the recent passing of singer-songwriter Liam Payne, Luke and Fraser address the unseen side of fame, and explore ongoing issues facing individuals in the public eye. Drawing comparisons with their own sobriety journeys, they highlight the contributing factors that can cause problems with alcohol and substance abuse, and discuss whether these can be address
Oct 28, 2024 • 48:27
Debunking Male Myths
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser explore ten popular myths about men, and set out to discover just how much truth is behind these beliefs.Exploring everything from commitment, unfaithfulness, sex, communication and emotions, Luke and Fraser share stories of their own, and stories of men around them to help illustrate their understanding of these popular myths.Do you think they got it right?? Luke and Fraser want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to
Oct 20, 2024 • 43:45
Evaluating Self Worth
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser explore self worth and value. Digging deeper into the subject, they also aim to illustrate the difference between self worth and self esteem. Considering the many areas of life that individuals may draw their value from, they touch on body image, profession and fatherhood as some personally significant areas. Drawing on the sporting world, they talk about the imbalance that they feel many athletes experience, where they may derive all v
Oct 13, 2024 • 49:35
Getting Older
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, hot on the heels of Luke's 48th Birthday, Luke and Fraser investigate their feelings towards growing older. Reflecting on their younger years, they agree that they feel more comfortable in their skin as they age, and highlight how they both feel a need to maintain good health and mobility in order to effectively support their families. They explore the idea that a fear or dislike of aging is around lack of control, purpose or need, and reflect on the b
Oct 6, 2024 • 47:29
What Makes a Great Team?
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser look at their sporting and professional histories and try and decipher what makes a great team or a great team culture. They discuss whether a successful team needs uniformity, or if there is also space for individuality amongst a common goal. They highlight the need for team culture to be embodied and delivered by members of the team, and the need for substance beyond a teams ideals and goals. They also reflect on social expectations from th
Sep 29, 2024 • 50:24
Life After Death
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss the oft-avoided subject of death. Critiquing the differing ways we confront death, and how we often don't talk about it, despite it's inevitability, the guys try to break down why it provokes such strong emotion.They look at death from both sides, from the death of oneself to the loss of a family member, and share how their attitude towards their own existence has changed over time. Reflecting on losses in their own lives, they
Sep 22, 2024 • 49:47
Taking Responsibility
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser take a long hard look at responsibility, and highlight the significance it has had in their own lives, especially through recovery. Taking responsibility is a key pillar of the 12 step recovery programme which both Luke and Fraser have undertaken, and regular listeners may be familiar with the question that they both ask of themselves; 'What's my part in this?' They discuss how resentment, honesty and responsibility can be closely tied,
Sep 15, 2024 • 49:11
What is Love?
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser ask, 'What is love?' Reflecting on their lives, they discuss their experiences of love, and share how love has changed for them over time. They dissect the portrayal of love online and in the media, and highlight how they believe it may stray from the most authentic definitions and depictions of love. Addressing the importance of self love in their lives, they highlight the impact that self development has had upon their lives, and how
Sep 8, 2024 • 45:27
Is Suffering Inevitable?
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser get spiritual and take a look at the Buddhist First Noble Truth, which refers to the 'suffering' or 'unsatisfactoriness' of life. Inspired by previous episodes, contributors, and recent stories they have shared - they discuss if it's ever possible to live completely without suffering.Highlighting the mental and emotional anguish we may experience beyond physical pain, the guys share instances where they may have suffered by getting caught in
Sep 1, 2024 • 52:29
Life Beyond Sport
Prompted by the news of the passing of former England cricketer Graham Thorpe, Luke and Fraser take the opportunity to discuss what life can be like for many ex-professional sportspeople.Reflecting on their own experiences, and the experiences of those around them, they investigate the mentality and resilience needed to perform as an elite player and how this mindset can often be detrimental in the "real world". They also highlight the striking differences between the corporate and sporting worl
Aug 25, 2024 • 52:26
It's Our 50th Episode!!
In this special episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are celebrating their 50th episode! They're both taking on the role of interviewer and finding out more about each other including their daily routines, non-negotiables and what childhood hobbies they’re currently revisiting…Reflecting back on the past 50 episodes, they take the chance to revisit some of their favourite guests and themes, and analyse what has changed for them personally and professionally over the last 12 months.Final
Aug 18, 2024 • 46:55
Finding Meaning Through Suffering with David James Seed
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by model and cold water breathwork practitioner David James Seed. David has built a community of people online through platforms such as Instagram and YouTube, and endeavours to help individuals face their fears and traumas through his work. David believes that getting people out into nature allows them to get out of their heads and into their hearts - where the real work is.Through the episode, David details his personal jou
Aug 11, 2024 • 54:31
Being Step Dad
In this latest episode of Understanding Men, Fraser is in the driving seat as he finds out more about Luke's experiences of being a step parent. Luke shares not only how he manages his relationship with his partner's children, but also how he supports his ex-wife's new partner in being a great step dad to his biological children. Fraser also details his experience of welcoming a potential step parent into his child's life, sharing his initial thoughts and worries, alongside some conflicting advi
Aug 4, 2024 • 49:27
The Purpose of Expectation
In this week's episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser question the purpose of expectation. Drawing examples from their own lives and others around them, they share if it has either helped or hindered their development, and point out the similarities both expectation and standards share.Using wisdom and quotes from names such as Antonio Banderas, Sylvia Plath, Buddha, Jodi Picoult and Ryan Reynolds, they investigate differing views around expectations, and argue that humans do benefit from
Jul 28, 2024 • 44:25
Unpacking Nationalism
In this week's episode of Understanding Men, hot on the heels of EURO 2024, Luke and Fraser contemplate nationalism, and try to unpack what exactly national pride is. Reflecting on their varied upbringings and their experiences of representing their country both on and off the pitch, they investigate their own national identities, and ponder the commonalities they may have with other British people.Highlighting the idea of borders, they discuss the ways in which humans have moved around the worl
Jul 21, 2024 • 46:18
The Importance of Communication
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser delve into the subject of communication, and try to uncover why many men can struggle to open up. They address the importance of finding specific and safe opportunities to discuss difficult feelings and situations, and share some of their hesitations around doing so.Luke and Fraser also highlight the value of sharing vulnerability and fear to foster closeness and ease, and discuss how this level of conversation might also be 'safe terri
Jul 14, 2024 • 50:22
Uncovering Incels
Trigger warning: This episode includes descriptions of mass shootings, which some individuals may find distressing. In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser dive into the subject of 'incels' and set out to illustrate the contributing factors that have lead to the development of this community. They explore how the incel ideology is built off resentment and entitlement, and highlight how it often blames external factors for their percieved lack of romantic success, such as appe
Jul 7, 2024 • 48:23
Getting Out of Comfort Zones with Rob Blackburne
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by elite performance coach for professional footballers and host of the Footballer's Mindset podcast, Rob Blackburne. Rob was very vocal in sounding the alarm over the mental health issues existing within professional football and has now run therapy sessions with countless young players. Most recently, Rob has run 7 marathons in 7 days for the James’ Place Charity which provides life-saving treatment to men in suicidal crisi
Jun 30, 2024 • 43:24
Demystifying Gen Z
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser set out to demystify Gen Z, reflecting on how their own experiences differ greatly to the lives young people lead today. Drawing on trends around housing, sobriety, teenage pregnancy, promiscuity and socialisation, Luke and Fraser illustrate the backdrop upon which Gen Z exist, and highlight the political and social climate which shapes them. They explore the negative views some people may have around Gen Z appearing entitled and fickl
Jun 23, 2024 • 54:13
Managing Stress
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser explore stress. They share times when stress has manifested in their lives, whether in professional sport or business, and reflect on the aspects of their lives which can provoke stress. They also discuss if humans may always need some level of stress in their lives in order to motivate or overcome challenges. They break down the ways they effectively manage stress, including intentionally slowing down, talking with friends, spending ti
Jun 16, 2024 • 48:11
Getting Honest
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss honesty, and dissect the role it has played in their recovery. They look at the purpose of honesty in their own lives, and how so called "brutal honesty" can have unintended negative repercussions. They explore the relationship between honesty and authenticity, and describe how some level of dishonesty is to be expected in life, in order to protect the feelings of others and allow them to grow. Reflecting on their recovery, they
Jun 9, 2024 • 49:27
Shedding Shame
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser explore shame. They draw connections between shame, self-destruction, addiction and low self-esteem, and address the difference between shame and guilt. Reflecting on times in their lives where they experienced shame, they highlight how isolating it was, and how life became a constant battle to make everything appear "normal". Luke and Fraser also address how recovery and the 12 step programme allowed them to make amends for any harmful
Jun 2, 2024 • 48:56
Finding Purpose Through Hitting Rock Bottom with Simon Dent
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by Simon Dent, aka the ‘Ultra Entrepreneur’.Over the last 20 years, Simon has been a highly successful entrepreneur. He set up and sold a talent management business and more recently did the same with a company called Dark Horses, which in 2019 was voted the 5th fastest growing creative advertising agency in the world. Prior to this, Simon started a sports memorabilia shop in Covent Garden which he sold to The British Sports Museum
May 26, 2024 • 58:45
Fear of Failure
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss failure. Looking back at instances in their lives which they then viewed as failures, they show the importance of failure as a means to learn and grow. They also highlight how the mindset of not wanting to fail can be helpful in delivering a good performance, but can be an unsustainable way to live long-term. Luke and Fraser also explore the idea of a fear of success, and how fear of a good or bad outcome can result in someone n
May 19, 2024 • 52:25
Dealing with Uncertainty
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser explore uncertainty. Highlighting the importance of tolerating uncertainty that was key to their recovery journey, they share the practices they have in place that enable them to stay present and embrace the possibilities of each day. They discuss the joy, hope and excitement that uncertainty can bring, and how often the best thing that one can do is focus on the current moment and then go from there. They also highlight how gaining per
May 12, 2024 • 54:05
Managing an Eating Disorder with Dave Chawner
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by award-winning stand-up comedian, number 1 bestselling author and presenter, Dave Chawner. Dave struggled with anorexia for nearly 10 years before seeking treatment, made worse by the fact he found it difficult to explain what was going on. Since then he has used the tools at his disposal to help him understand, accept and explain his eating disorder. He now teaches other people through his brilliant 6-week course, Com
May 5, 2024 • 59:22
Progressive Masculinity with Mike Nicholson
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by former English teacher and middle leader Mike Nicholson. Mike has a wide range of experience across the educational spectrum and early in his career developed a reputation for his ability to have a positive impact on boys and young men deemed ‘difficult’ and ‘challenging’. Mike developed and delivers the Progressive Masculinity Program which aims to give young men the freedom and confidence to reconstruct a healthier and more op
Apr 28, 2024 • 54:46
Reality of the Dad Bod
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss the pressures that men may feel around their physical appearance. Addressing the change in beauty standards over the years, and also the increased access to cosmetic procedures, both of them share instances where they have become more conscious of how they look, and how they wish to present themselves to the world. Breaking down the idea of the (potentially) inevitable 'dad bod' and what health and wellness actually looks like,
Apr 21, 2024 • 52:06
The Impact of Community
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss the role of community in our lives, and share how it's helped them throughout difficult periods in their lives, including addiction and poor health. Drawing on the evolutionary purpose of community, they discuss why groups of people are so often and easily driven apart by difference of opinion, and address communities that emerge to take advantage of vulnerable people. They also talk about the importance of community as we age, and ho
Apr 14, 2024 • 50:54
The Mystery of Man Flu
In this week’s episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss the much debated and somewhat maligned ‘man flu’. Is it a real illness? Is it an overreaction to a regular cold or flu? Do men really suffer more than women? Discussing studies on the difference in severity of illness and also attitudes towards health in both men and women, Luke and Fraser address societal expectations around sickness which can often lead to worse outcomes for both genders. Alongside this they al
Apr 7, 2024 • 42:46
Midlife Crisis or Midlife Breakthrough?
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss the idea of 'midlife crisis'. Breaking down the subject and addressing misconceptions around it, they look into the reasons why someone may want to change or address the way they live their life, and how this may end up alienating people around them. They also wonder if a 'midlife crisis' is someone living more authentically, or if it's an attempt to break free of societal expectation. Finally, they discuss the impact both marri
Mar 31, 2024 • 53:44
Understanding Teenagers with Rachel Richards
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by former BBC Correspondent and now parenting coach Rachel Richards. Rachel co-hosts the podcast 'Teenagers Untangled', which she describes as ‘an audio hug for parents going through the teenage years'. Within their discussion, Rachel, Luke and Fraser cover a number of subjects including fearless parenting, navigating parenting in the digital age, dealing with lack of communication and breaking generational cycles. Alongside t
Mar 25, 2024 • 1:01:48
We Answer Your Questions!
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are answering your burning questions! This week we handed over the agenda to our wonderful listeners, and let them ask Luke and Fraser anything (within reason of course!) that was on their mind.Addressing subjects such as addiction, sobriety, spirituality and pride, the guys share wisdom and advice from their own personal journeys and explore new topics not yet spoken about on the podcast. Saving perhaps the best question for last, they
Mar 18, 2024 • 56:30
Is 'Weaponised Incompetence' Real?
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discover and explore the subject of 'weaponised incompetence'. They address the environments where it may occur, including in the home, between family members and within business, and wonder if they've ever been guilty of playing into their incompetencies. They also discuss whether both men and women can employ weaponised incompetence to avoid doing tasks they don't particularly like or find difficult to complete, and question if the po
Mar 11, 2024 • 54:44
Learning Resilience with Josh Connolly
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by certified Breathwork Coach, prominent mental health advocate and NACOA ambassador Josh Connolly. Josh's mission centres on guiding individuals to gain a deeper insight into their own selves and emotions, fostering a connection with their intuition and body. Josh works with individuals and corporate organisations to gain a healthier understanding of what resilience truly means. In this discussion, Luke, Fraser and Josh disc
Mar 4, 2024 • 53:47
Confronting a Gambling Addiction with Gab Stone
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by sports agent Gab Stone. Gab was one of the most successful sports agents in the UK, managing multiple Gold Medal winners at the London 2012 Olympics including Louis Smith and Nicola Adams. However, 5 years later in 2017, Gab was sentenced to 18 months in prison, admitting fraud after losing over £40,000 of Olympic Gold Medalist, Greg Rutherford's money due to a crippling gambling addiction. This is the first time that Gab h
Feb 26, 2024 • 1:06:27
Jealous Men
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser talk jealousy, and share moments in their lives where it has manifested, including in relationships, rivalries and on the pitch. They discuss the purpose of jealousy, and wonder if it can motivate people to succeed or leave them feeling sad and envious. They talk about the importance of embracing a whole spectrum of emotions, and imagine a world where people might be more honest about the jealousy they experience. Luke and Fraser also w
Feb 19, 2024 • 52:30
Confronting Loneliness
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser talk loneliness, and reflect on times throughout their lives where they have experienced it the most. They talk about the importance of sharing problems with others in order to feel a sense of belonging and community, and muse on the many approaches people may take to try to feel less alone. Finally, they ask the question if it's ever possible to never feel loneliness or if it is simply part of the human condition. Luke and Fraser also want t
Feb 12, 2024 • 49:41
Class Divide
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser take on the conversation of class, reflecting on their differing upbringings and how this has shaped their worldview. Covering subjects including schooling, family, motivations and ultimately their routes into professional sport, they question whether class has an effect on work ethic, or whether it can prove detrimental in certain fields. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about
Feb 5, 2024 • 53:04
Changing Your Mindset with Jacqueline Hurst
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by the UK’s leading Life Coach, No.1 Best-selling International Author of How To Do YOU and GQ Magazine’s resident coach and columnist, Jacqueline Hurst. Jacqueline is a Certified Life Coach, Master NLP Practitioner and a Certified Health and Weight Coach with over two decades experience in helping clients change their life through learning how to change their mindset.In this interview, Jacqueline talks about he
Jan 29, 2024 • 46:30
Do We Need To Fight?
In the new episode of Understanding Men, inspired by comments made by Jordan Peterson, Luke and Fraser talk about fighting and physical ability. They question whether masculinity is dependent on strength and performance and ask how they would deal with a physical confrontation or altercation. Reflecting on their own capabilities which have changed through time, injury or illness, they wonder just how much fighting is a part of manhood. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the
Jan 22, 2024 • 50:19
How to Change Your Life
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, inspired by new years resolutions and good intentions, Luke and Fraser talk about the mindset, outlook and support networks they needed in order for them to make significant change in their lives. They also discuss some of the more sustainable ways to deal with issues such as alcoholism and addiction, and how honesty and accountability have helped them maintain those positive changes. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects
Jan 15, 2024 • 53:48
The Making of a Man with Ollie Ollerton
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by former Special Forces soldier and founding Directing Staff on Channel 4's hit show SAS: Who Dares Wins, Ollie Ollerton.In this interview, Ollie talks about how his early life experiences lead him to follow a career in the military, and how this has shaped his current outlook. He also talks about the techniques he uses to stay present and calm in high stress situations and the difficulty in maintaining a results based focus
Jan 8, 2024 • 52:52
It's 2024!
Get those party poppers ready, it's 2024! Luke and Fraser are taking a look back on their year to share the unexpected changes they experienced, their highlights and reflections on the 12 months just gone, and their hopes and goals for 2024...Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube @understandingmenpod Hosted on Acast. See aca
Jan 1, 2024 • 50:06
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas! It's time for the special Christmas episode of Understanding Men! In this episode, Luke and Fraser are taking a look back on 2023 and sharing with us their 'Christmas Presents', giving us the stories of 6 exceptional individuals who inspired and amazed them this year. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok and In
Dec 25, 2023 • 51:55
Toxicity & Boundaries
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss toxic relationship dynamics, and reflect on times they've abandoned themselves in order to be liked or accepted. They also discuss the importance of setting boundaries and how to navigate the toxic relationships that are impossible to avoid, for instance, with colleagues or family members. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having
Dec 18, 2023 • 52:24
Marriage Breakdown
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, prompted by Fraser's recent announcement of his separation from his wife, both Luke and Fraser discuss marriage breakdown. With Luke having separated from his partner over four years ago, they both reflect on the process of divorce and also acknowledge its effect on the friends and family closest to them. As ever, the guys hope that this podcast helps anyone out who may be currently experiencing a similar situation. Luke and Fraser also want to he
Dec 11, 2023 • 57:30
Tackling Imposter Syndrome with Steven Reid
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by former professional footballer and Nottingham Forest first team coach Steven Reid, to explore the feelings of imposter syndrome he has faced throughout his playing and coaching career. Steven has been open about his experiences with anxiety and depression and also how this ultimately played a part in him deciding to end his playing career. The guys also discuss how if their tenacious attitude to life has ultimately helped them s
Dec 4, 2023 • 1:02:00
Becoming Leaders
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss leadership, and reflect on leaders they’ve encountered in their own personal lives and careers. Looking back at their experiences, they decide if they’ve been authentic and effective leaders and share the qualities that they have admired in others. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us
Nov 27, 2023 • 1:01:46
Finding Purpose
In the newest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser talk about finding purpose in life and reflect upon whether they think they've found theirs yet. Looking back at the events that led them to be where they are today, they wonder if their purpose is tied to their previous experiences and who they needed when they were their past selves. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those
Nov 20, 2023 • 56:57
Finding Love in the Modern World with Persia Lawson
In this new episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by dating and relationship coach, podcaster and author Persia Lawson. The group chat about how both men and women struggle in modern dating and highlight how we all need to get more comfortable with male vulnerability. Luke and Fraser want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok and Instagram @understan
Nov 13, 2023 • 1:01:41
Understanding Fear
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser discuss the role that fear has played throughout their lives, and how it has affected their work and relationships. Reflecting on how they face fear now they're in recovery, they share how they hope to embrace it to live a fulfilling life. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok an
Nov 6, 2023 • 58:46
Experiencing Identity Crisis with Nile Wilson
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by former Olympic gymnast Nile Wilson to explore the identity crisis he faced when retiring from gymnastics in 2021. Nile's career was ended by an injury and the guys discuss the various circumstances around their retirement and how they found purpose and meaning beyond their sport. Luke and Fraser want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those dif
Oct 30, 2023 • 1:03:56
Exploring the Shame Shadow with Simon Cusden
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by former professional cricketer and executive coach Simon Cusden. Simon helps high performing men navigate their shame shadow in order to create better relationships with people around them and allows them to develop a better quality of life. Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions around suicide, which some individuals may find distressing. Luke and Fraser want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'
Oct 22, 2023 • 1:03:10
The Truth of Addiction
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser share their experiences with addiction and alcohol misuse, and discuss at what point they realised their relationship with alcohol was unhealthy. They also discuss the kinds of support they sought out in order to start on the path of sobriety and investigate what the term 'alcoholic' means. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having th
Oct 15, 2023 • 1:05:03
Navigating Loss with Simon Thomas
In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser are joined by television presenter and host Simon Thomas as they explore how they have experienced loss throughout their lives. This episode was inspired by a comment from a listener, and we hope that the guys' insight and experience helps anyone currently facing similar challenges. Luke and Fraser want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conv
Oct 8, 2023 • 1:08:03
Being Dad
In this episode, Luke and Fraser share their experiences around fatherhood and reflect on the ways they've changed and grown as parents. They also explore how sobriety has helped them be better fathers and how they hope their children forge their own paths free from expectation. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok and Instagram @underst
Oct 1, 2023 • 56:28
Insecurities: Money & Status
In the latest episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser look in to their relationship with money throughout their lives, and highlight times where they've felt pressure to live beyond their means. Luke takes on an old foe and the guys highlight a young man who's recent award win left a huge impression on them. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. F
Sep 24, 2023 • 57:18
Insecurities: Body Image, Sex & the Effect of Porn
Luke and Fraser delve into their personal and professional pasts in this episode, and share the ways in which it impacted their relationships and self-esteem. They also discuss the effects of pornography on intimacy, body image, and sexual relationships, as well as the negative impact of alcohol in romantic relationships. The guys also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us
Sep 17, 2023 • 55:53
Who are we?
In this first episode Luke and Fraser share their most challenging and eye-opening experiences to date and reflect upon their experiences as sportsmen, partners, fathers and professionals. They also share the unique way their friendship began and what they're hoping to achieve through starting this podcast. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on
Sep 10, 2023 • 57:01