In this episode of The Monumental Podcast, Pete Hunt talks with Sir Jeremy Hunt in a deeply human conversation about leadership, resilience, and the unseen cost of life at the top of British politics.

Sir Jeremy reflects on a career that has placed him at the centre of some of the most difficult decisions in modern public life, from leading the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games to serving as the UK’s longest-serving Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Foreign Secretary, and Chancellor of the Exchequer.

But this conversation goes far beyond titles.

Timestamps

00:00 Intro to Sir Jeremy Hunt: Resilience, Pressure, and Leadership

01:08 Subscribe and Monumental Network Intro

01:55 Charterhouse vs Oxford: Confidence, Bullying, and Resilience

03:28 Why Resilience Should Be Taught and the Importance of Friendships

05:20 Politics and Friendship: Why It's Harder Now

07:01 Family and Friendship Outside Politics: The Cost of Leadership

08:17 Early Business Failures and Lessons on Resilience

10:35 From Chancellor to Backbencher: Keeping Perspective

12:05 Handling Criticism and the "Ocean's 11" List of Achievements

14:01 Health Secretary Years: Facing Anger, Hate, and Pressure

15:50 Loneliness in Leadership and the Drive to Keep Going

17:43 Marriage Under Pressure: The "Third Person" in Politics

20:25 Children's Mental Health and Social Media Concerns

22:44 Doom Scrolling and Parenting in a Digital Age

24:03 Tech Transitions and Optimism About the Future

25:53 Future Ambitions: Family Focus and Public Service

28:29 Restoring Confidence in Britain and Closing Thoughts

To find out more about the private network Pete founded for men in leadership, visit:

www.monumental.global

Episode Sponsor :

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Erica Komisar – The Inconvenient Truth about Parenting in 2025

In this thought-provoking episode, Pete Hunt welcomes back psychoanalyst and bestselling author Erica Komisar, following a year of exponential growth in her reach and message, including a recent appearance on The Diary of a CEO. Known for challenging modern parenting ideals, Erica confronts the uncomfortable truths about early attachment, the myth of “having it all,” and why parental presence in a child’s early years is non-negotiable.

Whether you’re a father, partner, or simply someone reflecting on how you were parented, this conversation offers both a reality check and a powerful invitation to rethink what children really need.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:29 – Why Erica’s message is seen as controversial

04:03 – The cost of early childcare trade-offs

09:20 – Narcissism and unmet emotional needs

13:00 – The impact of different attachment styles

18:04 – Boarding school and emotional detachment

23:30 – The social media narrative vs. real parenting

27:00 – Why guilt shouldn’t be ignored

32:16 – “Second chances” and late-stage fatherhood

36:45 – Teenagers, tech, and the void of play

41:00 – Starting deeper conversations with your kids

47:00 – Reframing parenting as teamwork

52:30 – Careers, control, and the realities of modern motherhood

1:03:00 – The long-term impact of early disconnection

To find out more about the private network Pete founded for growth-focused leaders, visit:

www.monumental.global

Your Wheel of Life in just 90 seconds:

https://insight.monumental.global/wheeloflife

In this powerful episode, Pete Hunt sits down with Nick Duffell, psychotherapist, author, and pioneer of work around boarding school trauma. They explore why so many high-achieving men with these privileged backgrounds feel emotionally stuck, the hidden impact of early survival strategies, and how intimacy becomes one of life’s greatest challenges. A raw and essential listen for men navigating midlife, relationships, and identity.

Timestamps 

 00:00 – Introduction

01:29 – Why relationships are so hard for men

04:46 – Boarding school and emotional shutdown

07:52 – The missing emotional training

11:15 – Listening as a lost skill

15:08 – Survivor roles and disconnection

22:04 – The gift of emotional energy

24:06 – The mother wound

32:00 – The child self in adult relationships

36:10 – Institutional life vs. intimacy

43:00 – The missing father figure

47:02 – Mentorship and male role models

50:00 – The impact of porn and overstimulation

53:40 – Power through vulnerability

To find out more about the private network that Pete founded for growth focused leaders, visit www.monumental.global

In a special departure from the usual one-on-one format, host Pete Hunt, Founder of "Monumental", welcomes George, Mike, Oli, Sam, and Ben, a group of Monumental members, for a candid conversation about what really goes on inside Monumental.

Together, they discuss how meaningful support, honest dialogue, and putting down the “mask” can transform men’s relationships, careers, and overall sense of fulfilment.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

To understand your Wheel of Life (in just 90 seconds) click on this link.

https://insight.monumental.global/wheeloflife

Why do so many men lose friendships in midlife? And what does science say about the impact of social isolation on male health and well-being?

In this episode Pete Hunt sits down with renowned evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar to explore the biological and social foundations of male friendship. Dunbar, a leading expert in human relationships, explains why men are wired for structured social networks—and why losing them can have serious consequences.

In this episode, Pete and Robin discuss:

• The Male Friendship Crisis – Why friendships decline for men in their 40s and 50s, and how work and family pressures play a role.
• The Social Brain Hypothesis – How our brains evolved to manage complex social groups, and why maintaining friendships is essential for survival.
• Male vs. Female Friendships – Why men bond through activities rather than emotional sharing, and how this affects the longevity of their relationships.
• The Midlife Danger Zone – How loneliness impacts men’s mental and physical health, and why social isolation is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
• The Power of Tribe – How structured networks like Monumental can help men rebuild friendships, strengthen social ties, and rediscover a sense of belonging.
• Redesigning Male Friendships – What the future of male community looks like and how men can take action to strengthen their relationships.

Robin Dunbar’s research sheds light on one of the biggest but least talked-about issues facing modern men: the quiet disappearance of close friendships. In this conversation, he shares powerful insights into how men can reconnect, why tribal bonds matter, and what every man needs to know about maintaining deep, meaningful relationships.

Monumental

The Monumental Network - The Private Network For Growth Focused Leaders

Monumental is a private network for leaders ready to challenge their status quo and grow with purpose that was Founded by Pete Hunt.

Through weekly confidential pod meetings and monthly in-person events, Monumental creates a space where men connect authentically and hold each other accountable.

Here, leaders are free to drop the mask, speak openly, and move beyond isolation.

The Network empowers men to uncover their true potential, cultivate purpose, and leave meaningful legacies.

And we have a lot of fun doing it.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

Join host Pete Hunt as he sits down with seasoned Everest guide Kenton Cool, whose record of 18 summits and elite experience in the death zone speaks for itself, for a candid conversation about leadership, vulnerability, and the hard-won lessons from life at extreme altitude.

In this episode, Pete and Kenton discuss:

• Navigating the Death Zone: Leading clients in Everest's death zone requires unwavering confidence, rigorous prep, and full accountability.
• Building and Sustaining Confidence: Kenton shows how facing repeated challenges—from early setbacks to high-altitude feats—builds real confidence.
• From “I” to “We”: Transitioning from a solo, thrill-seeking lifestyle to embracing collective responsibility for team and family.
• Leadership: Power vs. Presence: Exploring decision-making on Everest, from collaborative planning to assertive, genuine leadership.
• Confronting Mortality on the Mountain: Reflecting on Everest's harsh realities, the emotional impact of fallen climbers, and human vulnerability.
• Balancing Extremes and Vulnerability: Discussing how extreme challenges and social media spark an inner dialogue on self-worth and the need for safe spaces.

Kenton Cool shatters limits with 18 Everest summits and 45+ expeditions, including the first British ski descent of an 8,000-m peak and the Everest Triple Crown. Overcoming a near-fatal injury, his guiding career embodies raw resilience and calculated risk. Join Pete as he uncovers the hard-won wisdom of extreme adventure.

Monumental

The Monumental Network - The Private Network For Growth Focused Leaders

Monumental is a private network for leaders ready to challenge their status quo and grow with purpose that was Founded by Pete Hunt.

Through weekly confidential pod meetings and monthly in-person events, Monumental creates a space where men connect authentically and hold each other accountable.

Here, leaders are free to drop the mask, speak openly, and move beyond isolation.

The Network empowers men to uncover their true potential, cultivate purpose, and leave meaningful legacies.

And we have a lot of fun doing it.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

Join host Pete Hunt with esteemed society photographer Sam Pelly for an open and deeply reflective conversation about identity, self-expression, and the journey to emotional and creative freedom.

In this episode, Pete and Sam discuss:

• The power of storytelling through photography and how capturing the essence of his subjects has shaped Sam’s career.
• The challenges of identity and self-worth, growing up as the eldest of three brothers and navigating life in the shadow of a well-known sibling.
• The impact of early boarding school experiences and the deep emotional imprint they leave on men.
• The importance of emotional awareness and self-inquiry in relationships, fatherhood, and personal growth.
• The courage to embrace truth and transformation through life’s major transitions, including divorce and redefining success.
• The healing journey of men’s work, nature, and creative exploration, and how Sam now helps others step into deeper authenticity.

Renowned for his work with Vogue, Tatler, The Telegraph, and institutions such as the National Portrait Gallery, Sam Pelly has built an extraordinary career capturing everything from fashion campaigns to Royal weddings. His lens has taken him across the world, working alongside legendary photographers including Peter Lindbergh, Paolo Roversi, Patrick Lichfield, and Mirella Ricciardi.

But beyond the camera, Sam’s personal journey has been just as remarkable. From an idyllic yet complex childhood to finding his own creative and emotional voice, he shares how his search for belonging and truth has shaped both his art and his life.

A self-described “scribe of imagery, a storyteller of soul and wonder”, Sam reflects on how photography has reframed his world, helping him see beauty everywhere and connect with the infinite mystery of life.

Join Pete and Sam as they explore the courage to feel, the power of authenticity, and the privilege of being truly alive.

Monumental

The Monumental Network - The Private Network For Growth Focused Leaders

Monumental is an invite-only, private network for leaders ready to challenge their status quo and grow with purpose that was Founded by Pete Hunt, the host of The Privileged Man Podcast.

Through weekly confidential pod meetings and monthly in-person events, Monumental creates a space where men connect authentically and hold each other accountable.

Here, leaders are free to drop the mask, speak openly, and move beyond isolation.

The Network empowers men to uncover their true potential, cultivate purpose, and leave meaningful legacies.

And we have a lot of fun doing it.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

Join host Pete Hunt as he sits down with Freddie Carr, a six-time America's Cup competitor and winner of the Louis Vuitton Cup in 20224. Freddie opens up about his incredible career, the transition from elite-level sport to life beyond the Cup, and the invaluable lessons he’s learned along the way.

Pete and Freddie discuss:

• Navigating life after high-performance sport – the challenges of stepping away from an elite team environment.
• The mental and physical toll of competitive sailing – from extreme training regimens to the exhaustion that follows.
• The evolution of the America's Cup – how the sport has transitioned from traditional sailing to high-speed, high-tech foiling machines.
• The role of leadership and team culture – the importance of communication, camaraderie, and “checking the ropes” with teammates.
• The impact of loss in high-risk sports – reflecting on the tragic passing of Andrew ‘Bart’ Simpson and its lasting effect on the sailing community.
• What’s next for Freddie – from exploring opportunities in business to rediscovering his love for traditional sailing.

This episode is packed with insights on resilience, leadership, and the mental side of elite competition. Tune in for an honest and engaging conversation that goes beyond the racecourse.

The Monumental Network - The Private Network For Growth Focused Leaders

Monumental is an invite-only, private network for leaders ready to challenge their status quo and grow with purpose that was Founded by Pete Hunt.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/

Bob Skinstad is a former Springbok captain, entrepreneur, and advocate for community-driven change. In this episode, Bob reflects on his extraordinary rugby career, which includes leading South Africa to victory in the 2007 Rugby World Cup and overcoming personal challenges like imposter syndrome.

Expect to learn:

• Bob's most memorable rugby moments and toughest defeats.
• How Bob tackled the pressure of leadership and anxiety early in his career.
• His insights on building a sense of belonging and fostering resilience in teams.

Bob also discusses the role of sport as a unifying force in South Africa, his thoughts on privilege, and the lessons he hopes to pass on to the next generation. This is a captivating conversation with one of rugby’s most insightful leaders.

00:00 Introduction to Rugby and Personal Struggles

06:49 Memorable Moments in Rugby

11:45 The Internal Battle of Belonging

17:58 Understanding Privilege and Its Impact

24:08 Reflections on Family and Financial Legacy

30:38 Leadership and Governance Challenges

33:46 Cultural Reflections: South Africa vs. the UK

36:20 The Legacy of Apartheid and Its Impact

39:40 Celebrating Progress and Good Governance

42:31 Navigating Privilege and Responsibility

46:17 The Role of Sports in Unifying Society

48:50 The Impact of Technology on Youth

52:43 Mental Health and Community Support

57:29 Vision for a Better Future

You may know that Pete Hunt is also the Founder of Monumental, a personal development platform for male business owners and leaders.

For More Information on Monumental:

- Monumental - https://monumental.global/

- Monumental Testimonials - https://monumental.global/testimonials/

Kevin Ellis is the former Chairman and Senior Partner of PwC UK & Middle East.

In this conversation, Kevin reflects on his journey at PWC spanning nearly four decades.

Kevin shares insights on navigating economic uncertainty and embracing failure as a pathway to growth.

Expect to learn:

• How Kevin prioritised mental health and work-life balance.
• Kevin’s approach to building trust and culture in times of crisis, like the Pandemic.
• And the lessons he drew from his family and career about resilience and leadership.

Kevin also discusses his transition into retirement, his newfound passions, and the legacy he hopes to leave, both personally and professionally.

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a leader of a Top 4 Accountancy Firm. 

00:00 Reflections on Leadership and Change

02:59 Navigating the Pathway to Employment

06:01 Integrity and Decision-Making in Leadership

09:11 Building Trust During Crisis

11:59 The Importance of Support Systems

15:07 Balancing Work and Family Life

17:53 Health and Well-being in Leadership

21:03 Life After Retirement: New Beginnings

23:58 Legacy and Future Aspirations

You may know that Pete Hunt is the Founder of Monumental, a personal development platform for male business owners and leaders.

For More Information on Monumental:

- Monumental - https://monumental.global/

- Monumental Testimonials - https://monumental.global/testimonials/