In this episode of Headstrong, Jake Graf joins Louis Strong for a deeply honest conversation about identity, resilience and protecting your mental health in a world that can feel increasingly hostile. Jake opens up about growing up trans with no language or representation, the isolation that shaped his early life and the coping mechanisms he turned to just to survive. He reflects on the mental toll of persistent transphobia, the exhaustion of public scrutiny and the fear that can exist in the most ordinary moments of daily life.

At the heart of this episode is hope. Jake speaks powerfully about fatherhood as an anchor for wellbeing, the joy and grounding he finds in family life and how vulnerability has become a source of strength rather than weakness. He also shares why representation in film and storytelling matters so deeply – not just for trans people but for anyone who has ever felt unseen.

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To mark World Mental Health Day, Louis is joined by garden designers James Alexander-Sinclair and Joe Swift for a bitesize conversation exploring how nature and gardening nurture our wellbeing. They discuss the power of fresh air, community and creativity in the garden - how getting your hands in the soil can bring calm, perspective, and healing. From small urban spaces to sprawling landscapes, this episode reminds us that connecting with nature helps us reconnect with ourselves.

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Be sure to check out The James & Joe Podcast show, James and Joe's brand new hit garden podcast: https://www.instagram.com/jamesandjoegarden/

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The James & Joe Garden Show is available now! Go check out the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pCPhPj4yIP9eL5NHDLLjm?si=0352718ff35a4348

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Actor, poet and performer Dan Whitlam joins me for a raw & gripping conversation about some of the defining moments of his life, including the traumatic event of being stabbed at the formative age of 16.

Dan opens up about meeting his attacker years later, redefining masculinity through vulnerability & transforming pain into powerful art.

We also discuss his brand new poetry collection I Don't Want To Settle: Words for a Lost Generation, out 4 September at all good book stores, and his upcoming UK tour this autumn.

This episode is sponsored by WPA Health Insurance.

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Fredrik Ferrier rose to fame on Made in Chelsea, but few know the full story behind the screen. In this moving episode, Fred speaks candidly for the first time about his sober journey, the pressures of reality TV, and his deep connection to music. He reflects on redefining success, vulnerability, and breaking away from a party-fuelled culture. This is a raw and inspiring conversation — one that Fred hopes will help others feel less alone.

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James Marriott joins Louis Strong on Headstrong for an open and powerful chat about his emotional journey through music, therapy, and self-expression. From the raw honesty of his new album Don’t Tell The Dog to navigating burnout, vulnerability, and his relationship with social media, James reveals how creativity became his catharsis. A must-listen for fans who want to hear the man behind the music.

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Maya Raichoora is the world’s leading visualisation expert, and in this episode, she reveals why training your mind is the key to unlocking mental wellness. We dive into the power of visualisation, the dangers of suppressing emotions, and why mental fitness is just as important as physical health. Maya shares her personal journey and practical steps to harness your mind’s full potential. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation!

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Reality star Liv Bentley rose to fame on Made in Chelsea, but behind the glamour, she’s faced real struggles. In this explosive episode, Liv opens up about the mental toll of reality TV, the judgment women face when talking about sex and the gruelling life of running her brand, Jomo. From sex education scandals to trolling nightmares, she shares the hard truths about fame, business and mental health - with no filter.

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In this episode of Headstrong, Grace Chatto—one-third of global hitmakers Clean Bandit—opens up about stepping away from the constraints of their major label and embracing true creative freedom. Grace shares what it’s like leading a band that not only racks up Number 1 hits but also supports a growing team behind the scenes.

She talks candidly about the pressure of success, the responsibility she feels for her crew, and why discipline and routine are essential to surviving life on tour. We also dive into the changing landscape of the music industry, the rise of social media, and why young artists need a solid plan to protect their mental health. Honest, inspiring and packed with wisdom for anyone navigating high-pressure careers.

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In this powerful episode of Headstrong, Jake Williamson opens up about his journey from professional footballer to LGBTQ+ advocate. Jake shares the raw truth about coming out as gay, being ostracised by his teammates.

But his story didn’t end there. Jake talks about finding his true identity, the life partner who stands by him, and how speaking openly transformed his life. We dive into the challenges of sexuality in football, the importance of trust and why having someone to talk to - whether a friend or professional - can change everything. This is a conversation about courage, identity and love that football still needs to hear.

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In this episode of Headstrong, I sit down with the incredible Billy Monger—racing driver, Ironman world record-breaker, and the definition of resilience. After a life-changing accident at just 17, Billy refused to let adversity define him. He shares the first words his doctor told him after the crash, his intense journey to recovery and how he got back behind the wheel against all odds.

Billy also takes us inside his gruelling training for the Ironman, the mindset needed to push past physical and mental barriers and what it took to smash the double-amputee world record. His story is one of grit, determination and proving that no challenge is too big.

This episode is sponsored by WPA Health Insurance.

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