Are you over 40 and training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Thinking of starting BJJ later in life or wondering if you’re too old to roll?

In this inspiring and honest conversation, we speak with a BJJ black belt who began his journey after already earning a black belt in Hapkido and got completely humbled by a 16-year-old on the mats.

To check out Saad's superb YouTube Channel visit this link

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvOmFELNVojX7N_ahDDVieQ

🥋 Topics Covered:

How long it really takes to get a BJJ black belt (especially when starting after 40)

Is it easier to get promoted today vs the early 2000s?

The emotional and ego challenges of starting over as a white belt

What it's like being a beginner again in your 40s

Why so many older men feel lost during their BJJ journey—and how to push through it

Training BJJ as a military veteran and moving between schools with no black belts

💭 Whether you’re a brown belt wondering if you’re ready, or just a 45-year-old white belt getting smashed weekly, this video speaks directly to older BJJ students who refuse to quit.

Dad's Mental Health Podcast

👉 Follow for weekly episodes packed with relatable stories, mental health tips, and a healthy dose of humour.

📩 Want to share your story or join James on a future episode?

Email: [email protected]

To buy my book click this link

First Time Dad

ABOUT THE HOST

Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.

After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.

As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.

Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.

In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.

To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link

USEFUL RESOURCES

For your free digital copy of my book One Dad & His Dog

Please click this link

Again to be double awesome & leave a review on Amazon

Please click this link

Affiliate links

If you're a content creator looking to try some state of the art production & editing software you really need to check out Descript.

Descript has made my life so so much easier.

It's AI clever ness makes everything so much quicker which leaves me more time to make up some genuinely terrible Ukulele songs.

Click here to check out Descript

Looking for a new hosting platform with amazing analytics?

Try Captivate: Get A FREE - 7 Day Trial Here

Wanna Help?

If you want to help me develop this podcast please let a friend know about it. I hear you, no one has any spare time so here's an email template you could use.

Thanks in advance

James

Dear "dad mate"

I've just started listening to a podcast on apple podcasts for dads, which I think you might like.

It covers dad friendly topics like men's mental health, parenting, marriage, and the importance of mental health awareness and emotional intelligence for improving men's mental health.

The episodes are every Wednesday. They're not too long, have the occasional dad joke, one liner and parody song.

The host struggles with his own mental health so seems keen to want to helps others in a similar position.

Are you showing up in your marriage the way you did when you were dating or have you both slowly shifted into the roommate zone?

Many couples struggle with emotional distance, dwindling intimacy, or feeling unappreciated not because they’ve fallen out of love, but because they’ve stopped intentionally pursuing each other.

This episode unpacks a powerful framework to reignite connection, deepen trust, and bring back the fun, without waiting for "the mood" to strike.

In this episode, you will:

1) Discover why serving your partner without prerequisites can transform emotional and physical intimacy.

2) Learn how to redefine and measure success in your relationship using five simple, actionable routines.

3) Understand how mutual pursuit—planned with intention—can revive joy, connection, and lasting friendship in your marriage.

Tap play now to learn the practical steps that can take your marriage from autopilot to intentional, connected, and thriving.

Dad's Mental Health Podcast

👉 Follow for weekly episodes packed with relatable stories, mental health tips, and a healthy dose of humour.

📩 Want to share your story or join James on a future episode?

Email: [email protected]

To buy my book click this link

First Time Dad

ABOUT THE HOST

Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.

After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.

As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.

Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.

In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.

To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link

USEFUL RESOURCES

For your free digital copy of my book One Dad & His Dog

Please click this link

Again to be double awesome & leave a review on Amazon

Please click this link

Affiliate links

If you're a content creator looking to try some state of the art production & editing software you really need to check out Descript.

Descript has made my life so so much easier.

It's AI clever ness makes everything so much quicker which leaves me more time to make up some genuinely terrible Ukulele songs.

Click here to check out Descript

Looking for a new hosting platform with amazing analytics?

Try Captivate: Get A FREE - 7 Day Trial Here

Wanna Help?

If you want to help me develop this podcast please let a friend know about it. I hear you, no one has any spare time so here's an email template you could use.

Thanks in advance

James

Dear "dad mate"

I've just started listening to a podcast on apple podcasts for dads, which I think you might like.

It covers dad friendly topics like men's mental health, parenting, marriage, and the importance of mental health awareness and emotional intelligence for improving men's mental health.

The episodes are every Wednesday. They're not too long, have the occasional dad joke, one liner and parody song.

The host struggles with his own mental health so seems keen to want to helps others in a similar position.

In this heartfelt episode, James shares some personal news with the Dad’s Mental Health community.

After recently losing his job, James is facing tough financial times and, as a result, is unable to continue hosting the podcast—at least for now.

He reflects on the journey so far, thanks the guests and listeners who’ve supported the show, and expresses deep gratitude for everyone who’s been part of it.

Though the podcast will pause after May 2025, James remains committed to supporting dads and promoting mental health conversations.

🎥 Stay Connected:

James will continue creating free content on YouTube, including discussions around mental health and his journey with jiu-jitsu.

🔗 Dad Mind Matters on YouTube

🙏 Thank you for being part of the journey. Take care, and wherever you are—James hopes you're doing okay.

*DISCLAIMER*

I'm neither a mental health professional nor pretending to be one.

With that in mind please consider this video as entertainment.

If you need professional advice please speak to your doctor.

That said, as someone who struggles with my mental health I have suggested things that have helped me in the past.

These organisations may also be able to offer support.

https://www.samaritans.org/

https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Have you ever wondered if your friend’s recent behaviour could be a silent cry for help?

In a world where emotional struggles are often hidden behind smiles and social posts, this episode sheds light on the subtle but significant signs that someone close to you, perhaps even your best mate might be dealing with something deeper than just a bad day.

In this episode, you will:

1) Learn to recognise five often missed emotional warning signs, from changes in mood to shifts in social media behaviour.

2) Discover practical, compassionate steps you can take if you're worried about someone close to you.

3) Gain real world insight from a dad who’s walked the path of mental health challenges himself no clinical jargon, just heartfelt honesty.

Hit play now to learn how to spot when a friend might be struggling and how to show up for them when it really matters.

Dad's Mental Health Podcast

👉 Follow for weekly episodes packed with relatable stories, mental health tips, and a healthy dose of humour.

📩 Want to share your story or join James on a future episode?

Email: [email protected]

To buy my book click this link

First Time Dad

ABOUT THE HOST

Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.

After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.

As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.

Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.

In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.

To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link

USEFUL RESOURCES

For your free digital copy of my book One Dad & His Dog

Please click this link

Again to be double awesome & leave a review on Amazon

Please click this link

Affiliate links

If you're a content creator looking to try some state of the art production & editing software you really need to check out Descript.

Descript has made my life so so much easier.

It's AI clever ness makes everything so much quicker which leaves me more time to make up some genuinely terrible Ukulele songs.

Click here to check out Descript

Looking for a new hosting platform with amazing analytics?

Try Captivate: Get A FREE - 7 Day Trial Here

Wanna Help?

If you want to help me develop this podcast please let a friend know about it. I hear you, no one has any spare time so here's an email template you could use.

Thanks in advance

James

Dear "dad mate"

I've just started listening to a podcast on apple podcasts for dads, which I think you might like.

It covers dad friendly topics like men's mental health, parenting, marriage, and the importance of mental health awareness and emotional intelligence for improving men's mental health.

The episodes are every Wednesday. They're not too long, have the occasional dad joke, one liner and parody song.

The host struggles with his own mental health so seems keen to want to helps others in a similar position.

Have you ever had to stop training Jiu-Jitsu because of a nasty skin infection you didn’t see coming?

If you're a grappler, you already know skin infections can side line your progress and your sanity.

In this episode, we dive into how one BJJ practitioner turned a painful staph infection into a powerful solution for every athlete who's serious about staying on the mats and avoiding the dreaded “mat funk.”

In this episode, you will:

1) Discover the real story behind how a training setback sparked the creation of a skin-safe hygiene product designed for combat athletes.

2 Learn which natural ingredients actually work to prevent infections—and which ones are just hype.

3) Get practical, expert-backed tips on how to upgrade your hygiene routine before and after training to stay healthy and roll longer.

Press play now to hear how one dad, BJJ blue belt, and soap entrepreneur is helping fighters stay clean, stay training, and stay ahead.

Dad's Mental Health - Formerly known as “Dad Mind Matters,” is a newly rebranded podcast for new dads, stay-at-home dads, working dads, and sleep-deprived legends just trying to do their best.

Hosted by James, a husband, father of three, and resident of Brighton, UK—this show brings honest, relatable chats about what it really means to be a modern dad.

Welcome to Dad's Mental Health

The podcast for new and seasoned dads navigating the rollercoaster of fatherhood with a smile, a groan-worthy dad joke, and honest conversations about mental health.

In this intro episode, host James (a happily married dad of three living near Brighton) shares why he changed the podcast name from Dad Mind Matters, what you can expect moving forward, and how stories from other dads—along with some cold showers, jujitsu, and questionable songs—have helped him manage anxiety, OCD, and daily stress.

Whether you're wiping bums before breakfast or sneaking chocolate biscuits during nap time, this podcast is your reminder: you’re not alone, and it’s okay to laugh while figuring it all out.

To check out Jeff's Grapple Guard products please click this link

👉 Follow for weekly episodes packed with relatable stories, mental health tips, and a healthy dose of humour.

📩 Want to share your story or join James on a future episode?

Email: [email protected]

To buy my book click this link

First Time Dad

Ever wonder what your children truly need from you more than toys, money, or even your advice?

In today’s world of broken routines, co-parenting dynamics, and constant distractions, many dads are struggling with how to be present, emotionally available, and a strong role model.

This episode offers an honest, heartfelt conversation that explores how simply showing up can shape your child’s entire life and your legacy as a father.

Here’s what you’ll walk away with after listening:

1) Real-life stories about how presence over perfection creates lasting memories

2) Insight from bestselling author and father of three, Jeff Nelligan.

3) Insights from James on how his dad modelled what a “good life lived” looks like

3) Practical wisdom on how to become a positive male role model in today’s culture no fluff, just real talk from two dads who've been there

Dad's Mental Health - Formerly known as “Dad Mind Matters,” is a newly rebranded podcast for new dads, stay-at-home dads, working dads, and sleep-deprived legends just trying to do their best.

Hosted by James, a husband, father of three, and resident of Brighton, UK—this show brings honest, relatable chats about what it really means to be a modern dad.

Welcome to Dad's Mental Health

The podcast for new and seasoned dads navigating the rollercoaster of fatherhood with a smile, a groan-worthy dad joke, and honest conversations about mental health.

In this intro episode, host James (a happily married dad of three living near Brighton) shares why he changed the podcast name from Dad Mind Matters, what you can expect moving forward, and how stories from other dads—along with some cold showers, jujitsu, and questionable songs—have helped him manage anxiety, OCD, and daily stress.

Whether you're wiping bums before breakfast or sneaking chocolate biscuits during nap time, this podcast is your reminder: you’re not alone, and it’s okay to laugh while figuring it all out.

To check out Jeff's best selling books please click this link

👉 Follow for weekly episodes packed with relatable stories, mental health tips, and a healthy dose of humour.

📩 Want to share your story or join James on a future episode?

Email: [email protected]

To buy my book click this link

First Time Dad

Ever had a morning where just getting out of bed feels impossible?

You're not alone and this episode is for those moments when the weight of everything feels like too much.

As a dad, the pressure to always be strong, present, and put-together can be overwhelming especially when you're navigating depression or low mental health.

This episode speaks directly to those mornings when hope feels distant but the need to show up still lingers.

Whether you're currently struggling or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers grounded, real life strategies to help break through the fog.

In this episode, you will:

1) Discover 5 powerful mindset shifts to help you move forward, even on the hardest days.

2) Learn how simply being present can have a lasting impact on your children—even when you're not at your best.

3) Gain perspective, comfort, and a few laughs from a fellow dad who's walked through the same darkness and is here to remind you: you're not broken, you're human.

Press play now to hear five down-to-earth thoughts that might just help you win today even if winning just means getting out of bed.

Dad's Mental Health Podcast

👉 Follow for weekly episodes packed with relatable stories, mental health tips, and a healthy dose of humour.

📩 Want to share your story or join James on a future episode?

Email: [email protected]

To buy my book click this link

First Time Dad

ABOUT THE HOST

Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.

After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.

As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.

Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.

In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.

To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link

USEFUL RESOURCES

For your free digital copy of my book One Dad & His Dog

Please click this link

Again to be double awesome & leave a review on Amazon

Please click this link

Affiliate links

If you're a content creator looking to try some state of the art production & editing software you really need to check out Descript.

Descript has made my life so so much easier.

It's AI clever ness makes everything so much quicker which leaves me more time to make up some genuinely terrible Ukulele songs.

Click here to check out Descript

Looking for a new hosting platform with amazing analytics?

Try Captivate: Get A FREE - 7 Day Trial Here

Wanna Help?

If you want to help me develop this podcast please let a friend know about it. I hear you, no one has any spare time so here's an email template you could use.

Thanks in advance

James

Dear "dad mate"

I've just started listening to a podcast on apple podcasts for dads, which I think you might like.

It covers dad friendly topics like men's mental health, parenting, marriage, and the importance of mental health awareness and emotional intelligence for improving men's mental health.

The episodes are every Wednesday. They're not too long, have the occasional dad joke, one liner and parody song.

The host struggles with his own mental health so seems keen to want to helps others in a similar position.

Welcome to the newly rebranded Dad's Mental Health

The podcast for new and seasoned dads navigating the rollercoaster of fatherhood with a smile, a groan-worthy dad joke, and honest conversations about mental health.

In this intro episode, host James (a happily married dad of three living near Brighton) shares why he changed the podcast name from Dad Mind Matters, what you can expect moving forward, and how stories from other dads—along with some cold showers, jujitsu, and questionable songs—have helped him manage anxiety, OCD, and daily stress.

Whether you're wiping bums before breakfast or sneaking chocolate biscuits during nap time, this podcast is your reminder: you’re not alone, and it’s okay to laugh while figuring it all out.

👉 Follow for weekly episodes packed with relatable stories, mental health tips, and a healthy dose of humour.

📩 Want to share your story or join James on a future episode?

Email: [email protected]

To buy my book click this link

First Time Dad

Have you ever had a moment where your body seemed to betray you—your heart racing, your palms sweating, and your mind spiralling out of control?

What if you could take back control and stop anxiety from ruling your life?

Anxiety and panic attacks can feel like a relentless cycle, leaving you exhausted and overwhelmed.

Whether you've experienced your first panic attack or have battled anxiety for years, you're not alone.

In this episode, bestselling author Brian Sachetta shares his personal struggles and hard-won strategies for overcoming anxiety.

You'll hear about the first time he had a panic attack, the surprising lessons he learned, and the techniques that helped him regain control of his mental health.

By listening to this episode, you will:

✅ Discover why anxiety thrives on secrecy and how opening up can instantly weaken its grip.

✅ Learn simple but effective techniques to calm your nervous system and prevent panic attacks.

✅ Gain a fresh perspective on mental health that will make you feel less alone in your struggles.

Hit play now to hear Brian’s powerful insights and start taking back control of your anxiety today! 🎧

To contact Brian click this link

In this episode, I'll reveal the real reason my guest started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Iowa.

Find out how this martial art can truly change your life for the better!

🎥 In this BJJ podcast episode, I'm joined by Brett, a dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and fellow dad over 40, from Iowa, USA.

We discuss why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best martial arts for men in their 40s and beyond, especially for dads seeking fitness, mental health, and community.

Brett shares his inspiring journey—training BJJ for several years, taking a long break due to life and injuries, and then passionately returning to the mats.

If you're a dad over 40 thinking about starting BJJ or returning to it after a break, this episode offers valuable insights into why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is so addictive and beneficial.

We discuss how BJJ boosts mental toughness, ego management, and physical longevity.

You'll learn why BJJ is called "human chess," offering mental challenges and strategic thinking similar to golf, and how training partners play a crucial role in your journey.

We also touch on why BJJ is ideal for older men: patience, a supportive community, and the endless puzzle-like challenge that keeps it fresh and exciting.

Brett shares honest thoughts on surviving tough rolls, setting realistic goals, and balancing training with family life.

Whether you're a white belt or seasoned brown belt, this episode highlights how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can dramatically improve your mental health, physical health, and overall quality of life—no matter your age.

🔑 Key Topics Covered:

Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for men over 40

Managing ego and expectations on the mats

Returning to BJJ after a long break

Why BJJ is perfect for dads and older beginners

The importance of choosing the right training partners

Mental health benefits and overcoming challenges through BJJ

BJJ vs. other martial arts (Karate, Taekwondo, Boxing)

Practical self-defense skills learned through Jiu-Jitsu

👉 Who Should Watch This?

Dads and older men starting BJJ

Experienced practitioners returning after a layoff

Anyone seeking inspiration for lifelong fitness and mental resilience through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

🥋 Join the community of dads transforming their lives through BJJ. Like, subscribe, and leave a comment sharing your own BJJ journey!

#BJJOver40 #BrazilianJiuJitsu #BJJforDads #MartialArtsForOlderMen #BJJCommunity #JiuJitsuMentalHealth #BJJPodcast #BJJLifestyle #DadLifeBJJ #BJJJourney

More From Dad Mind Matters

If you have a story you'd like to tell about living with a mental illness or about how you escaped the rat race that you'd like to share with my podcast listeners, please book a chat via

this link.

CAN YOU HELP THE PODCAST?

Dear Podcast Listener, Thank you for your support. This podcast aims to support dads all over the world, especially those struggling with their mental health.

This podcast is my hobby, but I'd like it to become more than that one day. For that to happen, I need the support of either one very wealthy angel investor or a few thousand, possibly slightly less wealthy (but no less generous) angel investors.

To develop the podcast and hopefully support more dads, I need some help. With that in mind, if you enjoyed this episode and want to help me with what I'm trying to do,

here is the link where you can leave a tip.

ALL tips, regardless of size, are hugely appreciated, and as a thank you, anyone who leaves a tip will be entitled to a voice note message from me on their next birthday.

Just contact me via the website

Thanks again for your support, and take care of yourself

James

To sign up for my FREE monthly newsletter - CLICK HERE

ABOUT ME

Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.

After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.

As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.

Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.

In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.

To Buy My Audiobook, First Time Dad, Click this link

FREE & "HOPEFULLY" USEFUL RESOURCES

Please click this link

For your free digital copy of my book One Dad & His Dog

Please click this link

Again to be double awesome & leave a review on Amazon

Please click this link

Affiliate links

If you're a content creator looking to try some state of the art production & editing software you really need to check out Descript.

Descript has made my life so so much easier. It's AI clever ness makes everything so much quicker which leaves me more time to make up some genuinely terrible Ukulele songs.

Click here to check out Descript

Looking for a new hosting platform with amazing analytics?

Try Captivate: Get A FREE - 7 Day Trial Here

Wanna Help?

If you want to help me develop this podcast please let a friend know about it. I hear you, no one has any spare time so here's an email template you could use.

Thanks in advance

James

Dear "close dad mate"

I've just started listening to a podcast on apple podcasts for dads, which I think you might like.

It covers dad friendly topics like men's mental health, parenting, marriage, and the importance of mental health awareness and emotional intelligence for improving men's mental health.

The episodes are every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. They're not too long, have the occasional dad joke, one liner and parody song. The host struggles with his own mental health so seems keen to want to helps others in a similar position.