In this episode of the Daniel Leese Podcast, Guinness World Record holder Adam Ratcliffe shares the full story behind rowing across the Atlantic Ocean for 56 days — and why the hardest part wasn’t the ocean, the capsizes, or the exhaustion… but the decision to change his life.

Adam opens up about growing up lacking confidence, feeling stuck in the corporate world, and hitting a point where everything felt empty. From there, we explore how discipline, fitness, and doing hard things reshaped his identity — ultimately leading him to become an adventurer and take on one of the most mentally and physically demanding challenges on the planet.

We dive deep into the real reality of ocean rowing:

3-hour sleep cycles, claustrophobia, injury, fear, and the moment the boat capsized in the middle of the Atlantic. Adam also explains the mindset that kept him going when quitting felt easier, including his powerful “90-year-old self” decision framework.

This conversation goes beyond adventure. It’s about purpose, resilience, men’s mental health, discipline over motivation, and the uncomfortable truth that no one is coming to save you.

If you’re feeling lost, stuck, or questioning your direction in life, this episode is for you.

🎙 Topics covered:

Rowing across the Atlantic for 56 days

Facing fear, pain, and isolation at sea

Why quitting a job can be harder than extreme endurance

Discipline vs motivation (and why the gym teaches life lessons)

Men’s mental health, identity, and purpose

Doing hard things when no one’s watching

Every subscriber helps to attract better guests so if you like what you see, subscribe to our channel.

00:00 – The moment Adam nearly quit before it even began

02:00 – From low confidence to chasing adventure

04:35 – Feeling stuck in the corporate world

07:45 – The “90-year-old self” decision framework

10:30 – Why discipline beats motivation

13:00 – Leaving everything behind to become an adventurer

17:45 – Skydiving fears and learning to do hard things

22:15 – Why fitness builds confidence for life

27:30 – Rock bottom: depression, emptiness, and needing change

33:00 – Saving money, quitting the job, and betting on himself

38:00 – Rescuing an abandoned ocean rowing boat

41:30 – Realising rowing the Atlantic might be a mistake

44:30 – The decision to commit (despite fear)

47:00 – Training for a 56-day Atlantic row

50:00 – Launch day and early setbacks

52:45 – The brutal reality of the first 10 days at sea

56:30 – Capsizing in the Atlantic (near-death moment)

01:01:30 – Sleep deprivation, claustrophobia, and suffering

01:06:00 – Injuries, infections, and pushing through pain

01:10:30 – Mental battles, doubt, and isolation

01:15:00 – The hardest day of the entire row

01:18:30 – Seeing lan

#podcast #guinessworldrecordholder #atlantic

In this deeply vulnerable episode, we uncover a reality that’s almost never spoken about: postnatal depression in men.

Our guest — a father of two — shares his raw and emotional story of what happened when his second son was born. With no relationship, no support, and a crushing sense of isolation, he began to unravel.

From violent intrusive thoughts about his newborn, to being afraid of himself and bottling it all up, this episode dives into the darkest corners of men’s mental health, fatherhood, and emotional survival.

Eventually, therapy and the power of speaking up pulled him out — and today, he has a strong relationship with his son and a new outlook on life.

If you’re a dad, a partner, or know someone silently struggling — this episode could be life-changing.

Keywords: postnatal depression in men, men’s mental health, fatherhood and depression, intrusive thoughts new dads, emotional vulnerability in men, male therapy journey, breaking the stigma in men’s health.

Thank you to our sponsors @andsomskin

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This weeks guest ➜ https://www.instagram.com/tomkinsey/?hl=en

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This week, I sit down with Phil Anthony — blood work specialist and health consultant — to uncover the truth about what’s really going on inside your body.

From testosterone levels to melatonin cycles, processed food to gut health, this episode is a deep dive into the fundamentals of human health most modern doctors never mention. Phil unpacks what your skin is trying to tell you, how fat might actually be saving your life, and the biggest mistake people are making when it comes to their health.

If you're tired of surface-level advice and want to understand what's really going on under the hood, this episode is for you.

🔥 What we cover:

How to boost testosterone naturally

The truth about melatonin, sun exposure & sleep

Why gut health is the foundation of everything

The real reason fat exists — and why liposuction is dangerous

Why calorie counting might be making things worse

And what your skin is revealing about your internal health

Get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about wellness.

00:00 Teaser to Episode

01:00 Introduction to this weeks guest

09:22 - The importance of sleep

16:10 - How often should you sleep?

23:30 - The importance of Testosterone and how to improve naturally

29:38 - The connection between sun exposure and good health

32:51 - Accelerate melatonin for longer sleep

36:02 - When you're Ill, do this

38:37 - Modern day doctors

38:08 - Improve your gut health naturally

44:59 - BIGGEST MISTAKE IN HEALTH

47:59 - The biggest killer amongst humans is//

49:42 - Optimal levels for blood sugar

53:48 - Fat is saving your life

01:06:05 - The negative effects of Highly Processed Foods

01:13:35 - Prevent overeating

01:17:43 - Should we be calorie counting?

01:20:42 - How our Fat Cells are stopping us from dying

01:22:52 - The dangerous side effects of Lipo Suction

01:56:30 - What your skin is telling you

Thank you for our sponsors www.andsomskin.com @andsomskin

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Get ready to dive deep with one of the most intense and inspiring guests we’ve ever had. From surviving a brutal chimp attack to leading life-or-death missions in Baghdad, Ollie Ollerton’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

In this episode, Ollie opens up about his hidden trauma, the fallout with SAS: Who Dares Wins, and the fear that drives him every day. He also shares eye-opening insights on everything from the Rothschilds' grip on education to the real reason the SAS is so elite.

We cover the raw truth about modern masculinity, the harsh realities of child slavery, and his mission to help others break through their limits. This is more than a conversation—it’s a masterclass in resilience, purpose, and the warrior spirit.

Tune in now to hear the untold stories that shaped one of Britain’s most fearless warriors—and prepare to challenge everything you thought you knew about survival, success, and the human spirit.

01:00 Intro to this week's guest

10:51 Uncovering Ollie's trauma

19:39 The channel 4 fallout with SAS, who dares wins

22:30 Family life growing up

25:00 The chimp attack

40:00 School was created by the Rothchilds family

48:00 Ollie's Dream - I wanted to do was be in the military

54:00 My trip to Costa Rica to discover compassion

01:11:00 The fear of death

01:12:00 My first tour in Northern Ireland

01:21:00 The road to Baghdad

01:33:00 What makes the SAS so elite?

01:37:00 Life after the SAS?

01:40:00 The road to Baghdad

01:53:00 Making it on TV in the UK

01:54:23 The people who surprise him the most on SAS who dares wins

01:56:00 A man's place in today's society

01:57:31 Saving kids from child slavery in Thailand

02:11:00 Break Point

Thank you for our sponsors www.andsomskin.com @andsomskin

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This week, I sit down with Bilal Muhammad — a man who redefined what it means to bounce back.

At just 26, Bilal was diagnosed with a brain tumour that could have ended everything. But instead of pressing pause, he hit play on a new chapter — founding Zenith, a boutique PR and brand strategy agency that’s already making serious waves.

With a decorated background in PR and social media, Bilal’s résumé includes work with global icons like GQ, Google, Universal Music, and DAZN. He’s helped shape campaigns that speak to culture, drive influence, and put brands exactly where they need to be — in front of the right people, in the right way.

In this episode, we unpack his journey through illness, recovery, and ambition. From the highs of rubbing shoulders with the industry elite to the lows of hospital beds and self-doubt — Bilal opens up on how he built a brand from scratch while rebuilding himself from the inside out.

If you’ve ever needed proof that adversity can sharpen your vision rather than blur it — this is it.

Join us on this week's episode as we explore the complexities of human emotions and relationships with our insightful guest, a seasoned psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate their inner worlds. In this enlightening conversation, we explore pressing questions like: Are people becoming disposable in 2025? How does childhood trauma shape our adult lives, and what's truly behind addiction?

Our guest shares her journey into psychotherapy, revealing what inspired her to enter this transformative field and the profound lessons she's learned. We unpack the intricate connection between addiction and relationships, discussing how understanding our past can pave the way to healthier connections.

Listen in as we redefine the meaning of love, emphasising the vital role of self-love and self-awareness in nurturing fulfilling relationships. This episode promises thought-provoking insights and practical wisdom for anyone looking to better understand themselves and those around them.

Chapters

00:00 Episode Teaser

00:40 Intro to the guest

02:37 Are people disposable in 2025?

03.51 Who is this week's guest, and what does she do?

05:31 Why did you become a psychotherapist?

07:30 What do you learn when you’re training to be a psychotherapist?

09:53 Other problems in our life down to the trauma we experience as children?

11:39 The reason behind addiction

18:53 The transition from addiction to relationship relationships

20:05 What does love mean to you?

33:00 How important is self-love in a relationship

37:00 Look inside self-aware

39:54 What I implement into my marriage that i teach my clients

49:05 How to love your spouse the right way

52:15 Should every relationship lead to marriage?

1:00:34 Breaking down what a 'Red Flag" actually means

1:05:41 The difference between lust and love

1:10:46 Is a healthy sex life key to a successful relationship

1:12:23 The 3 attachment styles

This weeks guest

Charisse Cook

https://charissecooke.com

https://www.instagram.com/charissecooke/?hl=en

Follow the Daniel Leese Podcast

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https://www.instagram.com/thedanielleesepodcast/

Thank you to our sponsors @andsomskin you can check them out and andsomskin.com and take their free skin quiz https://andsomskin.com/pages/skincarequiz

In this episode, I sit down with Rory Macfayden, the co-founder of Reflo, a brand making waves in sustainable performance wear. From starting with an idea to achieving a multi-million-pound valuation, Rory shares his journey of building a business that thrives and makes a difference.

We dive deep into the challenges of scaling a startup, the importance of sustainability in today’s market, and the mindset required to grow a brand in a competitive industry.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

🔹 How Reflo was born – The inspiration behind the brand and its mission

🔹 The road to a multi-million-pound valuation – Key growth strategies and pivotal moments

🔹How Harry Kane Became A Brand Ambassador and Investor

🔹 Challenges of building a business – Overcoming obstacles and staying resilient

🔹 Sustainability in performance wear – How Reflo is leading the charge

🔹 Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs – Rory’s insights on launching and scaling a business

Guest Spotlight: Rory Macfayden

Rory Macfayden is the co-founder of Reflo, a sustainable performance wear brand that’s revolutionizing the industry with innovative materials and a strong environmental focus. With a background in business and a passion for sustainability, Rory has successfully positioned Reflo as a leader in eco-friendly apparel while achieving an impressive multi-million-pound valuation.

⏱️ Episode Breakdown

📌 00:00 – Introduction Teaser

📌 00:39 – Meet Rory Macfayden: The Founder of Reflo

📌 03:35 – What is Reflo?

📌 04:18 – The Sustainability Behind Reflo

📌 06:06 – Why Apparel?

📌 08:03 – The Story of How Reflo Was Born

📌 13:01 – Finding the Right Manufacturers

📌 15:17 – Raising the First Round of Investment

📌 19:20 – Why Working With Agencies is a Waste of Money?

📌 22:59 – The First Year of Reflo: Lessons & Challenges

📌 25:41 – How to Stand Out in a Retail Store

📌 28:14 – When Harry Kane Tried Reflo for the First Time

📌 33:14 – The Power of Having an Influential Brand Ambassador

📌 35:53 – The Sustainable Technology Behind Reflo

📌 40:15 – Upcycling Recycled Clothing – The Future of Fashion?

📌 52:00 – The Hardest Part of Running a Business

📌 53:53 – The Toughest Times as a Founder

📌 59:45 – Advice to My Younger Self

🎧 Listen Now:

[Spotify] | [Apple Podcasts] | [YouTube]

🔗 Connect with Rory & Reflo

🌍 Website: [Reflo's Website]

📸 Instagram: / refloofficial

👔 LinkedIn: Rory Macfayden

🚀 Follow &SOM Skin & The Daniel Leese Podcast

📲 Instagram: @andsomskin @thedanielleesepodcast

🎥 TikTok: @andsomdan

🛍️ Website: www.andsomskin.com

Join us in this fascinating journey with Kashif Khan, CEO of The DNA Company, as we dive deep into the world of genomics and personalized medicine. Discover the groundbreaking ways our ancient DNA still influences us today and explore the latest discoveries transforming health and extending life. In this episode:

Learn Why the secrets to fixing your health start with understanding your genetic blueprint.

Explore the differences between genome and genetics and how these concepts shape our health strategies.

Uncover the biggest threats to our health today and what we can do to combat them.

Debate the effectiveness of modern medications against diseases that have evolved alongside humans.

Reveal surprising truths about everyday items like certain oils and sugars that could be sabotaging your health.

Challenge common health advice and discover alternatives that could help you live a healthier, longer life.

Whether you’re looking to understand your genetic fate, prevent disease, or simply live a more health-conscious life, this episode offers invaluable insights that could change the way you think about your body and health. Tune in now on YouTube, SoundCloud, or Spotify and take the first step towards a healthier you!

The Daniel Leese Podcast

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Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@thedanielleesepodcast?lang=en

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1N72EhY50LRpwMgpLCPUse

Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-daniel-leese-podcast/id1549263409

YouTube https://youtu.be/2S8PY2votlI

Kashif Khan

https://www.instagram.com/kashkhanofficial/?hl=en

https://kashkhanofficial.com/

Chapters

Chapters

00:00 Intro to the show and this weeks sponsor @andsomskin

02:00 The Why for Kashif?

04:41 learning to fix myself

09:46 Genome and Genetics

13:20 Whats the biggest threats to our health?

16:20 the secret killer

20:38 our DNA i 200,000 years old

22:54 Diseases explained

29:39 Does medication help?

31:42 why auto immune disease happens

33:42 Leaky brain

35:40 Stop using this OIL

37:34 Sugars

48:21 live to 120

51:29 antioxidents and the sources thatll reverse your age

54:58 this is why your aging faster

56:36 Stop using sunscreen

1:00:12 Setting up the DNA Company

1:02:34 are regulatory bodies corrupt?

1:05.13 setting up a business in the health indsutry

1:12:15 quick fire question

1:14:00 closing notes

Join us on this inspiring episode of the Daniel Leese Podcast as we sit down with Blakey Johnston, the world record holder for the longest surf. Blakey shares his extraordinary journey of riding 707 waves in 40 hours, delving into his surfing career, personal challenges, and the mental resilience required to conquer the ocean's waves and life’s tumultuous trials.

Episode Timestamps:

00:00-03:04: Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgements

03:05-11:29: Discover Blakey's roots and his early life influences

11:30-13:12: Reflections on materialism

13:13-16:31: The moment Blakey realized his surfing prowess

16:32-19:35: Managing ego amidst growing success

19:36-25:10: Insights into the professional surfing scene

25:11-28:05: Why Blakey stepped away from professional surfing

28:06-29:26: Training regimes for peak performance

29:27-30:14: Recognizing the time to retire from professional surfing

30:15-32:30: Transition from athlete to entrepreneur

32:31-34:42: Confronting fears: sharks and safety in surfing

34:43-36:10: Developing a bulletproof mindset

36:11-37:10: Handling social pressures and expectations

37:11-42:38: A touching tribute to his father and the impact of his loss

42:39-46:15: Exploring what truly matters in life beyond accolades

46:16-47:17: Discussion on mental health awareness

47:18-52:47: Motivations behind pursuing extreme challenges

52:48-56:55: The build-up to breaking the world surfing record

56:56-1:03:24: The drive to push beyond limits

1:03:25-1:12:44: A detailed recount of the record-setting day

1:12:45-1:16:10: Overcoming obstacles during the record attempt

1:16:11-1:18:06: Why Blakey continued surfing even after breaking the record

1:18:07-1:20:00: The exhilaration and emotional impact of achieving a world record

1:20:01-1:23:50: The critical role of visualization in achieving goals

1:23:51-1:26:34: Techniques for enduring physical and emotional pain

1:26:35-1:32:00: What the future holds for Blakey Johnston

1:32:01-1:34:54: Audience engagement through Facebook questions

1:34:55-End: Closing remarks and episode outro

This episode offers a profound look at the challenges and triumphs of a world-class athlete who has not only dominated the waves but also navigated the deep waters of personal adversity. Blakey's story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of mental health, and the unending pursuit of personal growth and fulfilment.

Blakeys Instagram 👉https://www.instagram.com/blakeyjohnston/?hl=en

Follow The Daniel Leese Podcast

Instagram👉 https://www.instagram.com/thedanielleesepodcast

TikTok👉 https://www.tiktok.com/@thedanielleesepodcast?lang=en

Audio versions on

Soundcloud 👉 https://soundcloud.com/thedanielleesepodcast

Spotify 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/1N72EhY50LRpwMgpLCPUse

Apple Podcasts 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-daniel-leese-podcast/id1549263409

Thank you to this week sponsor andsomskin.com

In this weeks episode, we sit down with cheif  mechanic for Lewis Hamilton’s first ever championship with Mclaren Marc Priestley.

A mechanic for Mclaren for 10 years working with some of the biggest drivers in the world. We discuss in this weeks episode what life is really like behind the Formula One Pitt Lane

Marc has gone on to build an extremely successful personal brand teaching businesses how they can implement Formula One strategies into their business.

Also features in the media a lot commentating on Formula One races till this day and there’s also the cop presenter for the program Wheeler dealers.

If you like this episode, don’t forget to hit the subscribe button.

Enjoy this weeks episode.

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to this week's guest

01:46 Why do people call you Presley?

04:46 Wheeler Dealers, F1 Mechanic

08:44 Younger years

14:23 The difference between a car mechanic and a Formula 1 mechanic

16:42 Interviewing for the Mclaren Formula 1 team

24:26 The reason why Lewis Hamilton is successful

29:35 Is it the Car that wins or the Driver?

31:27 Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso fall out

39:59 The Strategy Behind Succeeding in Formula 1

45:19 My favorite Formula 1 driver to work with

49:34 Writing "Life Behind The Formula 1 Pit Lane"

58:10 Leaving Formula 1

1:00:35 Wheeler Dealers, the biggest car program of all time