ABandOfBrothers Podcast

ABandOfBrothers
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ABandOfBrothers PodcastA podcast about men, meaning and the moments that force change. The ABandOfBrothers Podcast shares honest conversations about crisis, growth, belonging and responsibility. We explore what happens when men stop pretending they are fine and start doing the work. These are not expert lectures or self-help slogans. They are grounded, lived experiences from men who have faced breaking points, taken accountability, rebuilt relationships and found purpose through brotherhood and service. Why This Podcast ExistsAcross the UK, many young men grow up without consistent male guidance, emotional literacy or safe spaces to process challenge. At the same time, older men often carry silent pressure, isolation or unresolved trauma. ABandOfBrothers was created to change that. Through rites-of-passage experiences, long-term mentoring and community support, we bring men together across generations. This podcast extends that circle, opening up real conversations about what it means to grow up, step up and show up. What We Talk About• Men’s mental health • Personal crisis and turning points • Trauma as a catalyst for growth • Masculinity and emotional intelligence • Mentorship and positive male role models • Belonging and community • Responsibility, service and purpose • Fatherhood and intergenerational impact We are interested in depth, not performance. We value honesty over polish. Who It’s ForThis podcast is for: • Men navigating change or challenge • Fathers wanting to model strength with emotional presence • Mentors and youth workers • Young men looking for direction • Anyone curious about healthier models of masculinity You do not need to be part of A Band of Brothers to belong here. About ABandOfBrothersABandOfBrothers is a UK-based mentoring charity supporting young men aged 18–25 who may be at risk of exclusion, isolation or involvement in the criminal justice system. We use a structured rites-of-passage journey called The Quest, supported by long-term mentoring and community integration. Learn more about our work: https://www.abandofbrothers.org.uk What Makes This DifferentWe are not talking about men from the outside. We are men doing the work ourselves. Many of our guests are mentors, participants and community members who have lived the experience. The conversations are reflective, sometimes uncomfortable, often powerful and always rooted in real life. This is about transformation through accountability, challenge and brotherhood - not blame, ideology or culture wars. Join the ConversationListen. Reflect. Share with someone who might need it. If the themes resonate, consider getting involved in your local community or supporting the work of ABandOfBrothers. Because every young man deserves a circle of support. RSSVERIFY

Episodes

  1. Jul 28 ·  Video

    The Advice That Nearly Killed Me

    In a world where father figures can often be absent, two men confront their pasts and redefine what it means to be a dad. This episode dives deep into the raw realities of growing up without a male role model, the struggles of addiction, and the powerful journey of breaking generational cycles. If you’ve ever questioned your upbringing or felt lost in your role as a parent, this conversation is for you. Join James and Scott as they talk to James Bray of the BandOfBrothers Cornwall community, sharing stories of transformation and resilience. James opens up about his turbulent relationship with his father and how he fought to be a present dad for his own children, despite his own struggles with addiction. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to seek help and how joining ABandofBrothers provided the support he desperately needed. You’ll discover: - The importance of mentorship and accountability in overcoming personal demons. - Concrete strategies for breaking the cycle of absence and addiction. - How sharing stories can foster a sense of brotherhood and healing among men. - Insights on the emotional weight of fighting for parental rights and being present for your children. This episode isn't just a discussion; it’s a rallying cry for anyone who feels the weight of their past holding them back. The stakes are high. Without confronting these issues, many risk repeating the mistakes of the past. By choosing to engage in these conversations, listeners have the opportunity to change their narratives and empower the next generation. Perfect for fathers, sons, and anyone seeking to understand the impact of their upbringing, this episode is essential listening for those ready to break free from their past and forge a new path. Tune in for an inspiring dialogue that leaves you questioning how you can make a difference in your life and the lives of others.

  2. Jul 21

    The Emotional Power of Speaking Your Truth: How One Man Found Freedom

    What happens when a man finally stops holding it in and starts speaking what is really going on? In this episode, hosts Scott Alford and James Evans sit down with Rhys Griffin, a young man whose journey into A Band of Brothers began with a phone call to his brother, crying on his lunch break at college. We open with a check-in that sets the tone for the whole conversation. Scott shares how he was fully triggered, cruel and nasty in his behaviour, despite things going well at home. He did all the breathing, the meditation, the walk. Nothing worked. It was not until he actually spoke the words out loud that the tension started to lift. From there, the conversation moves into transformation: what it actually looks like, what it costs, and why there is no tidy end point. James opens up about his own low point, a night spent sitting halfway down a staircase at Leamington Station in the rain, having walked away from everything, only for a stranger to put a hand on his shoulder and say, "It'll be alright, mate." He speaks honestly about living with depression, taking medication, and the reality that transformation is not a finish line but an ongoing practice. Rhys shares what it took to say yes when his brother offered to refer him, the hesitation that followed, and how that single decision changed the direction of his life. Together, they explore the chrysalis metaphor - the idea that growth requires struggle, that no one can be pulled out of their cocoon before they are ready, and that the job of a mentor is to walk alongside, not to fix. This is an honest conversation about the messiness of change, the courage it takes to speak your truth, and why the work never really ends. ABandOfBrothers is a national mentoring charity for men. Find out more and get involved at abandofbrothers.org.uk Content Warning This episode includes discussion of suicidal ideation, depression, mental health crisis, emotional distress, criminal justice system involvement, and the ongoing challenges of living with suppressed trauma. These conversations take place within a context of healing and personal growth. Please listen with that in mind.

  3. Jul 14

    Finding Strength in Vulnerability

    What actually happens when a man stops performing and starts looking inward? In this episode, we return to the circle with Graham and Nathan to talk about the process at the heart of what we do - not the theory, but what it actually feels like to step into the shadow, revisit childhood memories, and start rewriting the stories that have been running your life. The conversation explores the ritual work that A Band of Brothers uses: what it means to descend into the inner darkness, what comes up when you do, and why witnessing another man go through it can be as powerful as going through it yourself. We talk about the distinction between therapy and this kind of intervention, the relief that comes from real emotional expression, and why vulnerability is not weakness but a source of real power. Nathan reflects on revisiting memories he had buried and what it felt like to have an older man simply hold the space. Graham speaks to the mystery of the process - how it works even when you do not fully understand it. And both hosts get honest about what they continue to discover in their own ongoing journey of self-exploration. This is an episode about the work that happens underneath the surface. If you have ever wondered what men actually do when they sit in circle together, this is your answer. ABandOfBrothers is a national mentoring charity for men. Find out more and get involved at abandofbrothers.org.uk Content WarningThis episode includes discussion of childhood trauma, buried memories, emotional distress, and the psychological challenges of confronting one's inner shadow. These conversations take place within a supportive context of healing and transformation. Please listen with that in mind.

  4. Jul 7

    What Brotherhood Actually Looks Like

    What does brotherhood actually look like when the cameras are off and life gets difficult? In this episode of the ABandOfBrothers Podcast, Scott Alford and James Evans are joined by Graeme Lawrence and Nathan Griffin for an honest conversation about what keeps men connected through different stages of life. Together they explore the simple practices that sit at the heart of A Band of Brothers: checking in, speaking honestly, taking responsibility, and learning to walk alongside one another rather than trying to fix each other. The discussion spans generations, bringing together the perspective of a younger man building his life, a graduate returning to community after time away, and an older mentor reflecting on what it means to care for and guide younger men without controlling them. Along the way, the group explores the Four Agreements, emotional resilience, mentorship, belonging, and why many young men are searching for older men who will simply notice them, listen to them, and walk beside them. This is a conversation about the everyday practice of brotherhood and why genuine connection between men matters now more than ever. ABandOfBrothers is a national mentoring charity for men. Find out more and get involved at abandofbrothers.org.uk. Content WarningThis episode contains discussion of difficult family relationships, absent fathers, emotional struggles, mental health challenges, anger, and personal experiences of isolation. If you are struggling right now, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123, or visit samaritans.org.

  5. Jun 30

    How I Found Purpose After Gangs and Prison

    What do you do when the life you built on fear, gangs and prison stops working? In this episode of the ABandOfBrothers Podcast, Scott Alford and James Evans speak with Dayo about growing up groomed by older men on the streets, building a reputation based on fear, and then beginning the hard work of finding real purpose after prison. Dayo talks about being taught to hold the room through intimidation, spending years moving drugs, losing everything, and hitting a downward spiral of addiction, betrayal, depression and suicidal thoughts before a prison sentence forced a pause. He shares how faith, brotherhood and a rites of passage weekend with A Band of Brothers helped him start shifting from being the man everyone feared to the man younger men can trust. If you are a young man who has ever looked at gangs, fast money or violence as a way to get respect, this conversation offers an honest look at where that road really leads and what it takes to find purpose on the other side. ABandOfBrothers is a national mentoring charity for men. Find out more and get involved at abandofbrothers.org.uk. Content Warning This episode includes discussion of gangs, crime, prison, addiction, grooming by older men, depression, self harm, suicidal thoughts, prostitution and violence. If you are struggling right now, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123, or visit samaritans.org.

  6. Jun 23

    Why I Stopped Pretending To Be Okay

    What happens when a man gets tired of pretending everything is fine? In this episode of the ABandOfBrothers Podcast, Scott Alford speaks with Danny Grundy about joining the community at one of the most uncertain points of his life: moving out of the family home for the first time in 20 years, choosing between a 12 step recovery meeting and an A Band of Brothers opening evening, and realising he was done with performing for other people’s approval. Danny speaks openly about dropping the mask, trying to stop saying things just to make people like him, and learning how honesty in a room full of men can become the start of real change. The conversation also explores men’s mental health, the difference between therapy and mentoring, and how a rite of passage can help a man understand the space between who he has been and who he is becoming. This is a grounded conversation for men who feel lost, stuck, isolated, or tired of acting like they are okay when they are not. It is especially relevant for young men looking for language around identity, belonging, transition and growth. ABandOfBrothers is a national mentoring charity for men. Find out more and get involved at abandofbrothers.org.uk. Content Warning This episode includes frank discussion of addiction recovery, mental health, emotional struggle, difficult life transitions, and relationship pressure. If you are struggling right now, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123, or visit samaritans.org.

  7. Jun 16

    From Facing Suicide to Finding Brotherhood

    In this powerful episode, we sit down with Will from ABandOfBrothers, Crawley, to hear the story of a turning point that changed the course of his life. Following the breakdown of his relationship with the mother of his children, Will found himself in a dark place. Struggling with feelings of failure, shame and isolation, he reached a point where he was planning to end his life. What happened next led him to ABandofBrothers. Will speaks openly about suicidal thoughts, fatherhood, accountability, healing and the impact that genuine connection with other men has had on his life. He reflects on the challenges that remain, the lessons learned through his journey, and why simply talking to someone can make all the difference. This is an honest conversation about vulnerability, resilience and the power of brotherhood. Topics covered: • Suicide and recovery • Men's mental health • Fatherhood and accountability • Shame and self-worth • Rites of passage and personal growth • Supporting young men • Finding purpose through service ⚠️ This episode contains discussion of suicide and mental health challenges. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a trusted friend, family member, healthcare professional or support organisation.

  8. Jun 9

    Men - It's Okay to Fail

    What if some of your best lessons in life didn’t come from winning, but from failing? As men, we often struggle to stand up for ourselves, speak our truths, or feel like we are enough. We look for shortcuts, we make assumptions, and we take things personally. But what happens when you step into a community like ABandOfBrothers that changes those rules entirely? This episode brings together three men across different generations, ranging from 29 to 55 years old, to have a raw, honest conversation about mentorship, vulnerability, and what it truly means to "do the work." One guest opens up about spending a lifetime suppressing his voice, only to discover at 55 that when he speaks his truth, the world actually values it. Another shares how he overcame a childhood defined by an abusive father to find himself at 29 years old, backed and elected to a national role in ABandOfBrothers by a room of forty men. This isn't an episode of unearned advice. It’s an exploration of walking side-by-side, learning from younger generations, and running daily life decisions through a framework of radical integrity. If you are a young man who has ever felt like you are fighting against the world alone, this conversation is an open invitation to stop hiding. ABandOfBrothers is a national mentoring charity for men. Find out more and get involved at abandofbrothers.org.uk Content Warning This episode includes honest discussion of childhood trauma, domestic abuse, and personal struggles with worthlessness and self-doubt. These conversations are part of a broader journey toward healing, community integration, and mutual support. Please listen with that in mind. If you are struggling right now, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123, or visit samaritans.org.

  9. Jun 2

    I Thought My Life Was Over at 21

    What do you do when the criminal justice system swallows you whole and spits you out without answers? When you ride a thousand miles and come home to nothing? When you have spent years in prison and realise you never really knew how to deal with your own emotions? This episode is four men being honest about the moments that broke them, and what they found on the other side. One came out of prison and found a community that changed the direction of his life entirely. One sat alone after a 1,000-mile bike ride and realised he had never once felt like he belonged. One was 21 years old, in his final year of university, caught in a system he did not understand, and reached the point where he did not want to be here anymore. These are not tidy stories with neat endings. They are still in progress. But if you are a young man who has ever felt like you are drifting, like the world is carrying on around you and you are just going through the motions, this one is worth your time. ABandOfBrothers is a national mentoring charity for men. Find out more and get involved at abandofbrothers.org.uk Content Warning This episode includes honest discussion of mental health crisis, suicidal thoughts and the criminal justice system. These conversations are part of a story of recovery and growth, but please listen with that in mind. If you are struggling right now, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123, or visit samaritans.org.

  10. May 26

    Showing Up: Why Four Men Joined ABandOfBrothers

    In this first episode, hosts Scott and James are joined by Stuart and Corey to talk about how they each found ABandOfBrothers and why they stayed. Between them, they cover mental health referrals, a friend's years of encouragement, and one man who walked through the door straight after leaving prison. What united them wasn't a dramatic turning point, but a quiet decision to do something different. They touch on the 22-week mentoring programme, the Rite of Passage quest weekend, and what it means to go from being mentored to mentoring others. If you've ever felt like you're going through the motions without really knowing why, this one's worth your time. Content advisory: Brief references to mental health challenges and the criminal justice system.

  • 10 Episodes

About

ABandOfBrothers PodcastA podcast about men, meaning and the moments that force change. The ABandOfBrothers Podcast shares honest conversations about crisis, growth, belonging and responsibility. We explore what happens when men stop pretending they are fine and start doing the work. These are not expert lectures or self-help slogans. They are grounded, lived experiences from men who have faced breaking points, taken accountability, rebuilt relationships and found purpose through brotherhood and service. Why This Podcast ExistsAcross the UK, many young men grow up without consistent male guidance, emotional literacy or safe spaces to process challenge. At the same time, older men often carry silent pressure, isolation or unresolved trauma. ABandOfBrothers was created to change that. Through rites-of-passage experiences, long-term mentoring and community support, we bring men together across generations. This podcast extends that circle, opening up real conversations about what it means to grow up, step up and show up. What We Talk About• Men’s mental health • Personal crisis and turning points • Trauma as a catalyst for growth • Masculinity and emotional intelligence • Mentorship and positive male role models • Belonging and community • Responsibility, service and purpose • Fatherhood and intergenerational impact We are interested in depth, not performance. We value honesty over polish. Who It’s ForThis podcast is for: • Men navigating change or challenge • Fathers wanting to model strength with emotional presence • Mentors and youth workers • Young men looking for direction • Anyone curious about healthier models of masculinity You do not need to be part of A Band of Brothers to belong here. About ABandOfBrothersABandOfBrothers is a UK-based mentoring charity supporting young men aged 18–25 who may be at risk of exclusion, isolation or involvement in the criminal justice system. We use a structured rites-of-passage journey called The Quest, supported by long-term mentoring and community integration. Learn more about our work: https://www.abandofbrothers.org.uk What Makes This DifferentWe are not talking about men from the outside. We are men doing the work ourselves. Many of our guests are mentors, participants and community members who have lived the experience. The conversations are reflective, sometimes uncomfortable, often powerful and always rooted in real life. This is about transformation through accountability, challenge and brotherhood - not blame, ideology or culture wars. Join the ConversationListen. Reflect. Share with someone who might need it. If the themes resonate, consider getting involved in your local community or supporting the work of ABandOfBrothers. Because every young man deserves a circle of support. RSSVERIFY

Information

  • Creator
    ABandOfBrothers
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 ABandOfBrothers
  • Show Website
    ABandOfBrothers Podcast