Feel Good: For Men Who Want Change

The Feel Good Folk
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The Feel Good Podcast aims to unpack what it means to be a man in the modern world. In each episode, we explore the evolving landscape of masculinity through open, honest conversations with guests from all walks of life, from sport and the military to leadership, mental health and the arts. We challenge outdated narratives and dig into topics like emotional resilience, connection, identity and purpose. Our aim is to create a space where men can reflect, feel seen, and start to ask deeper questions about who they are and who they want to become. Whether you're curious about redefining strength, navigating vulnerability, or simply looking for more meaning in how you show up day to day – this podcast is for you.

  1. How To Be A Deliberate Dad, Showing Up For Yourself And Your Family | With Steve Cardwell

    12/02/2025

    How To Be A Deliberate Dad, Showing Up For Yourself And Your Family | With Steve Cardwell

    “If I’m sitting here in ten years thinking this exact same thing, I’ve no one to blame but myself.” -  Steve Cardwell In this episode of Feel Good — For Men Who Want Change, host Tim Barber sits down with Steve Cardwell, founder of Deliberate Dad, to unpack the moment that forced him off autopilot and into a life of deliberate choice. From a “Scotch egg” moment to the systems that help fathers reclaim time and presence, Steve shares a practical framework with his Deliberate Operating System, that helps dads set clear standards, simplify routines, and stay intentional through the chaos of parenting. They discuss what it means to be “deliberately selfish,” why balance is a myth, and how small, repeatable actions can lead to lasting transformation. If you’re a dad juggling work, family, and your own standards, this episode gives you realistic next steps and permission to experiment without guilt. 👉 Subscribe, share, and tag a dad who needs to stop living on autopilot. Chapters 00:00:00 - Intro & episode overview00:01:34 - Checking in: life with a 3-year-old and 10-month-old00:05:11 - The “Scotch Egg” moment: why Steve changed course00:07:27 - Taking responsibility: hiring a coach & starting experiments00:11:15 - Default (autopilot) vs Deliberate living — definitions and danger00:19:53 - “Deliberately selfish”: why self-care helps you show up00:23:33 - The Deliberate Operating System: clarity, systems, mindset00:23:54 - Seasons of life: why balance isn’t the answer00:29:52 - Micro-actions & momentum — simple experiments that compound00:30:33 - Real talk: everyone’s on autopilot — it’s normal, but fixable00:37:26 - Work & careers: practical conversations with employers00:39:49 - Defining standards: a practical example (phone-off at pick-up)00:44:02 - Action → Evidence → Bigger goals: the six-week approach00:54:52 - Imperfect solutions are better than no solution (closing message)00:57:26 - Where to find Steve (Deliberate Dad: website / socials / podcast)00:58:34 - Host closing & key takeaway How to find us: If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. 🌐 https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com Got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation? We’d love to hear from you. 📩 Reach out by email: info@thefeelgoodfolk.com 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/ 👤 To connect directly with Tim: https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15 To connect directly with Steve, you’ll find him here: 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deliberatedad_/🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedeliberatedad/  🌐 Website: https://deliberate.dad/

    1 hr

  2. 08/26/2025

    Male Suicide And Breaking The Cycle | With Will Castle

    In this episode of “Feel Good for Men Who Want Change”, Tim sits down with Will Castle - Movember ambassador, and executive producer of the powerful short film Heirlooms to talk about loss, legacy, and learning to speak about a different kind of grief. Will shares his story of growing up in a world of extreme privilege, private jets, polo matches, and the pressure to perform, and how that world was turned upside down at 22 when his father died by suicide. What followed was a decade of silence, self-medicating, and trying to “get on with life” while carrying unspoken grief and shame. Together, Tim and Will explore the unique pain of suicide bereavement, why so many men still struggle to ask for help, and how opening up through storytelling, community, and creativity, can be the first step toward healing. They also discuss Will’s short film Heirlooms, viewed over 3.5 million times, which shines a light on the intergenerational trauma of suicide and the importance of supporting those left behind. This is a brave, honest, and deeply human conversation about vulnerability, fatherhood, and what it really means to break the cycle. 🔑  Key Topics:- Growing up between wealth, work ethic, and emotional distance- His father’s death by suicide, and the day Will found out- Why he gave the eulogy, then went back to work the next day- The decade of silence that followed, and what finally changed- Movember, advocacy, and how speaking out became his therapy- How Heirlooms came to life—and why it’s resonated so widely- The ripple effects of suicide: shame, anger, and inherited pain- What needs to change in male friendships, fatherhood, and culture- Healthy masculinity and building new stories for our sons #MaleSuicidePrevention #HealthyMasculinity #SuicideBereavement #HeirloomsFilm #MenAndMentalHealth #Podcast First and most importantly, here's the link to the short film we discuss: https://www.willcastle.com/heirlooms Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help us grow this movement, man by man, story by story. How to find us: If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. 🌐 https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com Got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation? We’d love to hear from you. 📩 Reach out by email: info@thefeelgoodfolk.com 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/ 👤 To connect directly with Tim: https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15 How to find more about Will's work: Will is a speaker, campaigner and storyteller on Male Suicide 🌐 Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-castle-3172b82a/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willc239/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-castle-3172b82a/ The link to the short film Heirlooms we spoke about: https://www.willcastle.com/heirlooms If you found this episode insightful, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who might benefit from this conversation.

    51 min

  3. 08/13/2025

    Male Role Models In Early Education | With Claudio Sisera

    In this episode of “Feel Good for Men Who Want Change”, Tim sits down with Claudio Sisera of Male Childcare and Teaching Jobs and a passionate advocate for getting more men into early years education. Claudio shares his remarkable journey, from arriving in London as a 19-year-old with no experience, to becoming a nursery manager, entrepreneur, and now leader of a growing movement to diversify the early years workforce. Together, they explore the powerful role male educators can play in shaping children’s views of gender, identity, and care. They also unpack the cultural stigmas that discourage men from entering the profession, and how policy and perception need to shift to create more inclusive, balanced environments for kids, staff, and families alike. This is an open and energising conversation about identity, belonging, and building a better model of masculinity, one classroom at a time. Key Topics:- Claudio’s personal journey into early years education- Why only 3% of the early years workforce in the UK is male- How early childhood is where gender stereotypes begin- The power of diverse role models, especially for boys- Stigma, trust, and challenges men face in nursery settings- What needs to change culturally, financially, and structurally, to attract more men- Healthy masculinity, vulnerability, and choosing purpose over prestige #HealthyMasculinity #MenInChildcare #EarlyYearsEducation #MaleRoleModels #Podcast Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help us grow this movement, man by man, story by story. How to find us: If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. 🌐 https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com Got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation? We’d love to hear from you. 📩 Reach out by email: info@thefeelgoodfolk.com 📱 Follow us on social: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/ 👤 To connect directly with Tim: https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15 How to find more on Claudio’s work: Claudio’s platform champions and supports men in early years education. 🌐 Website: https://malechildcareandteachingjobs.co.uk/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malechildcarejobs 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudio-sisera/ If you found this episode insightful, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who might benefit from this conversation.

    56 min

  4. 07/30/2025

    Breaking out of the Manosphere | A Journey to Emotional Maturity with Will Adolphy

    In this episode of "Feel Good for Men Who Want Change", Tim sits down with Will Adolphy, a BACP registered psychotherapist and Managing Director of MPath, a company delivering Men’s mental health, emotional wellbeing & masculinity programmes designed to drive inclusion and allyship within organisations of all sizes. They delve into the complexities of the Manosphere, exploring how young men can be drawn into its allure and the societal pressures that shape masculinity. Will shares his personal journey from feeling disconnected to finding emotional maturity, offering insights into how we can foster healthier connections and redefine what it means to be a man in today's world. Join us for an open and honest conversation that challenges stereotypes and encourages reflection and growth. Key Topics: - Introduction to the Manosphere and its influence on young men- Will's personal story of transformation and growth- The importance of emotional maturity and connection- Strategies for fostering healthier masculinity in society. #HealthyMasculinity #EmotionalMaturity #Manosphere #Podcast #MentalHealth Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help us grow this movement, man by man, story by story. How to find us:If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email: info@thefeelgoodfolk.com You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/ To connect directly with Tim, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15 How to find more on Will's work:Below you can find Will's website, substack and instagram as mentioned in the show.Website: www.willadolphy.comSubstack: https://wisdomforthenaxiousmind.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/psychwill  If you found this episode insightful, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who might benefit from this conversation.

    57 min

  5. 07/21/2025

    From Career Crisis to Men's Community | The Mensch Movement with Josh Fineman

    In this episode of "Feel Good for Men Who Want Change," we sit down with Josh Fineman, founder of Mensch, a men's group rooted in local connection. Josh shares his transformative journey from a traditional career path to creating a supportive community for men seeking change. We delve into the challenges of redefining masculinity, the power of community, and the importance of finding one's true purpose. Join us as we explore how Josh's personal experiences and insights can inspire you to take action in your own life. Key Topics: - The journey from career crisis to community building - The role of men's groups in fostering healthy masculinity - Personal growth and finding authenticity - The impact of local connections and community support #HealthyMasculinity #CommunityBuilding #PersonalGrowth #JoshFineman #MenschMovement Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help us grow this movement, man by man, story by story. How to find us:If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email: info@thefeelgoodfolk.com You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/ To connect directly with Tim, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15 How to find Josh:You can find all of the details on Josh's movement here: https://www.bemoremensch.com/ Follow him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-fineman-6b28846/Follow him in Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/bemoremensch

    1h 2m

  6. 07/14/2025

    Staying Level: Football, Fatherhood & Emotional Control I With Alex McCarthy

    In this episode of Feel Good, For Men Who Want Change, host Tim Barber sits down with Southampton FC goalkeeper Alex McCarthy to explore the greatest challenges that led Alex into the world of elite sports. They delve into Alex’s early inspirations, the sacrifices he made as a young athlete, and the pivotal moments that defined his career. Alex opens up about the challenges of breaking into professional football, the relentless training schedules, and the resilience required to overcome setbacks and injuries along the way. How do professional athletes cope with the intense pressures and widespread misconceptions that come with their careers? The conversation turns to the high expectations placed on footballers, both on and off the pitch. Alex discusses the mental and emotional toll of constant scrutiny from fans, coaches, and the media, and addresses common myths about the glamorous lives of athletes. He shares candid insights into the realities of performance anxiety, the fear of failure, and the importance of maintaining confidence and focus under pressure. What role does social media play in shaping the mental health of modern athletes? Alex and Tim examine the double-edged sword of online platforms, where praise and criticism are delivered in equal measure. Alex recounts personal experiences with social media backlash, the temptation to read negative comments, and the strategies he uses to protect his mental well-being. They discuss the growing need for digital boundaries and the responsibility of clubs and organisations to support players in navigating the online world. How does one balance the demands of a high-profile sports career with family life and personal well-being? Alex shares heartfelt stories about his family’s unwavering support, the challenges of being away from loved ones during the season, and the joy of returning home after matches. He opens up about a serious health scare that forced him to reevaluate his priorities, highlighting the importance of self-care, open communication, and leaning on a strong support system during difficult times. How are attitudes toward mental health and masculinity evolving within the world of sports? The episode concludes with a discussion about the shifting culture in football, where vulnerability and emotional expression are increasingly recognised as strengths rather than weaknesses. The two emphasise the value of healthy masculinity, emotional regulation, and positive role modeling for young athletes. They reflect on the progress being made in breaking down stigmas, encouraging open conversations, and fostering environments where players feel empowered to seek help and support one another. So, take some time to stop and reflect. Think: when was the last time you gave yourself permission to be vulnerable?How to find us: If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email: info@thefeelgoodfolk.com You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/ To connect directly with Tim, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15 Alex McCarthy is a professional goalkeeper currently playing for Southampton FC. A product of the Reading Academy, he signed terms with the club in 2008, made his England debut in 2018, and has been with Southampton since 2016. You can find Alex on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthy/?hl=en

    57 min

  7. 07/07/2025

    Breaking the Mould: How Father-Son Bonds Shape Modern Masculinity | With Marcus & James Stone

    In this episode of Feel Good, For Men Who Want Change, host Tim Barber tackles father-son bonds and the evolving concept of healthy masculinity with Marcus Stone and his son James Stone. They discuss how societal expectations have shaped their own views on what it means to be a man, and how challenging these norms can lead to more authentic and fulfilling lives. Marcus and James share personal anecdotes about the pressures they’ve faced to conform, and how questioning these standards has opened the door to greater self-awareness and emotional freedom. How can the father-son relationship become a source of growth and healing? Marcus reflects on his journey from a demanding corporate career to becoming a coach, and how this transition affected his relationship with James. He describes the challenges of balancing professional ambition with family responsibilities, and the pivotal moments that made him reconsider his priorities. James offers his perspective as a son witnessing his father’s transformation, explaining how it inspired him to embark on his own search for purpose and meaning. What steps can men take to break free from limiting beliefs and embrace vulnerability? Together, Marcus and James explore the process of letting go of traditional expectations around masculinity, such as always appearing strong or unemotional. They discuss the courage it takes to be open about struggles, fears, and desires, and how vulnerability can actually strengthen relationships rather than weaken them. By sharing their own experiences with therapy, open dialogue, and self-reflection, they offer practical advice for men who want to grow emotionally and connect more deeply with others. Why is open communication so vital for personal growth and authentic connection? Throughout the episode, the conversation returns to the theme of honest, ongoing communication—both within families and in broader social circles. Marcus and James emphasise that talking openly about feelings, challenges, and aspirations is key to breaking cycles of misunderstanding and isolation. They encourage listeners to start small, perhaps by sharing something personal with a trusted friend or family member, and to be patient with themselves as they learn new ways of relating. So, stop and think: what traditional beliefs about masculinity have you inherited, and how can that be changed for the better?How to find us: If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.comIf you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email:info@thefeelgoodfolk.com You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/ To connect directly with Tim, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15 To connect directly with James, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-stone-441568145/ To connect directly with Marcus, visit his website: https://www.marcusstone.com/

    1h 1m

  8. 06/30/2025

    Transforming Military Service into Healing Narratives for Veterans | With Steven London

    In this episode of Feel Good, For Men Who Want Change, host Tim Barber sits down with Stephen London, a U.S. Army veteran, journalist, and author. Stephen opens up about his time in the military, sharing not only the challenges and responsibilities he faced during deployment but also the profound lessons he learned about leadership, camaraderie, and resilience. He discusses how his military service shaped his understanding of what it means to be a man, emphasising the importance of vulnerability, teamwork, and emotional strength in environments that often demand stoicism and toughness. How does the process of writing and storytelling help veterans process their experiences and connect with others? Stephen delves into the inspiration behind his book, "Mortal Men, Immortal Warriors," explaining how writing became a therapeutic outlet for him and a way to honor the stories of his fellow soldiers. He describes the process of gathering memories, both painful and uplifting, and transforming them into narratives that resonate with readers—veterans and civilians alike. Through his writing, Stephen aims to bridge the gap between military and civilian worlds, fostering understanding and empathy while encouraging other men to express themselves creatively and authentically. What are the mental health challenges that veterans face, and what coping mechanisms can help them thrive after service? The conversation turns to the difficulties many veterans encounter when transitioning back to civilian life, including feelings of isolation, loss of purpose, and struggles with mental health. Stephen shares his own journey of adapting to life outside the military, highlighting the importance of seeking support, building new routines, and finding healthy outlets for stress and emotion. He and Tim discuss the stigma that often surrounds mental health in male-dominated environments and advocate for open conversations, therapy, and peer support as vital tools for healing and growth. How do enduring bonds between soldiers influence their lives long after deployment, and what role does community play in personal development? Stephen reflects on the deep connections he formed with his fellow soldiers, describing these relationships as a source of strength and comfort during and after his service. Stephen also shares his experience of moving to Bulgaria and how immersing himself in a new culture helped him rediscover a sense of belonging and purpose. By sharing his story, Stephen hopes to inspire other men to embark on their own journeys of healing, growth, and authentic self-expression. So, how might embracing vulnerability and emotional strength change the way you define masculinity in your own life? How to find us: If you’d like to learn more about The Feel Good Folk, head to the website. We offer coaching, content and community that will help you navigate healthy masculinity in today’s world. https://www.thefeelgoodfolk.com If you’ve got questions, reflections from the episode, or just want to start a conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out by email: info@thefeelgoodfolk.com You can also follow along and connect with us on social media, where we share updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thefeelgoodfolk/LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-feel-good-folk/ To connect directly with Tim, you’ll find him on LinkedIn here:https://linkedin.com/in/tim-barber-i-frsa-29632b15 To connect directly with Stephen:Visit his writing here https://nycdailypost.com/ or email Communications@nycdailypost.com

    1h 6m
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About

The Feel Good Podcast aims to unpack what it means to be a man in the modern world. In each episode, we explore the evolving landscape of masculinity through open, honest conversations with guests from all walks of life, from sport and the military to leadership, mental health and the arts. We challenge outdated narratives and dig into topics like emotional resilience, connection, identity and purpose. Our aim is to create a space where men can reflect, feel seen, and start to ask deeper questions about who they are and who they want to become. Whether you're curious about redefining strength, navigating vulnerability, or simply looking for more meaning in how you show up day to day – this podcast is for you.

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  • Creator
    The Feel Good Folk
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Feel Good Folk