⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains open discussions about sexual abuse, addiction, and trauma, which some viewers may find distressing.In this powerful episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, Matthew Morton — better known as the BKB Spider — opens up about his journey from childhood trauma and addiction to rebuilding his life through faith, recovery, and bare-knuckle boxing.Matthew shares the raw truth about battling inner demons, finding purpose through pain, and how community and conversation helped him change direction. He speaks honestly about mental health in men, the strength it takes to open up, and how the sport of bare-knuckle boxing gave him a second chance at life.This one’s emotional, honest, and full of lessons about resilience, healing, and the power of never giving up.Thanks to our Headline Sponsors - Zinsser Episode Sponsor - Brewers Decorators Centres Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage01:58 The Journey of the BKB Spider04:55 Childhood and Family Dynamics07:51 The Impact of Abuse and Addiction11:03 The Struggles of Adolescence13:56 Turning Point: Speaking Out16:59 Consequences and Legal Battles20:00 The Path to Recovery23:52 Finding Purpose and Healing26:48 Reflections on Mental Health and Substance Abuse28:38 The Journey of Growth and Discipline30:00 Overcoming Addiction and Finding Purpose32:07 The Impact of Trauma and Forgiveness34:13 Transforming Pain into Strength36:15 Building a New Life Through Faith and Community38:26 The Value of Sharing Trauma39:58 From Darkness to Light: A New Path42:07 The Evolution of Bare Knuckle Fighting46:38 Training and Discipline in Fighting50:12 Living a Purposeful Life and Helping Others55:26 The Decline of Community and Connection57:48 The Impact of Social Media on Relationships01:00:47 Adapting to a Changing World01:02:18 The Journey of a Fighter01:06:09 The Respect Among Fighters01:11:56 Finding Passion and Purpose01:13:05 Life Beyond Fighting

Alexander Henry: The Truth Behind Married at First Sight UKFind Alex here -https://www.instagram.com/hennnoo_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==In this explosive episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, Alexander Henry, one of the most controversial figures to ever appear on Married at First Sight UK, drops the truth behind what really happens when the cameras stop rolling.From military life to reality TV fame, Alex opens up about how it feels to have your story edited, the producer influence that shapes what viewers see, and the double standards and stereotypes that come with being on one of Britain’s biggest shows. He doesn’t hold back — this is the side of Married at First Sight you were never meant to hear.Alex also dives deep into mental health, fame, and authenticity — sharing how he’s dealt with public scrutiny, the pressure of social media, and his drive to keep growing personally and professionally. We talk about boxing, mindset, and resilience, and what it really means to live life on your own terms after the spotlight fades.Thanks To our sponsors - Headline, Zinsser Uk Episode Sponsors - Brewers Decorating Centres Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage00:09 The Man Behind the Reality Star08:41 Military Background and Transition to Reality TV16:37 Controversies and Media Portrayal24:02 The Journey to Reality TV: Behind the Scenes25:25 Reflections on Reality TV Experience27:04 Reality TV: Love or Fame?29:37 The Impact of Past Relationships on Reality TV31:49 Navigating Fame: The Aftermath of Reality TV36:24 The Pressure of Public Perception49:26 Future Aspirations: Boxing and Beyond52:52 The Weight of Expectations and Mental Health56:21 Breaking the Stigma: Men's Mental Health Awareness58:46 The Changing Landscape of Youth Violence01:05:59 Navigating Trauma and Mental Health01:13:50 Reflections on Fame and Authenticity01:20:03 Staying True to Yourself: A Final Message

n this episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, I sit down with James O’Keefe, founder of Unguarded Warrior — a men’s retreat movement focused on helping men reconnect, rediscover purpose, and break free from the masks we wear. Find James Here - https://www.instagram.com/unguardedwarrior?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/jamesokeefenrg?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==James opens up about his journey from darkness to self-discovery, touching on addiction, accountability, and the crisis facing modern masculinity.We talk about the importance of father figures, emotional honesty, and the power of slowing down to understand who we really are. James shares raw stories from his own life — including the lessons he’s learned alongside his wife, singer and actress Beverley Knight — and how inner work and self-awareness became the foundation of his growth.This conversation is a deep dive into mental health, self-mastery, forgiveness, and the small daily changes that transform lives. It’s about breaking negative cycles, owning your story, and becoming the man you’re meant to be.🎙️ Tune in now on all platforms — this one’s a powerful listen for anyone ready to do the inner work and take control of their life.Thanks to our Headline sponsors - Zinsser Episode Sponsors - Q1 Tapes , Brewers decorating Centres Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Advocacy01:35 The Importance of Inner Work04:47 Father Figures and Masculinity07:46 Personal Journeys and Struggles10:38 The Impact of Alcohol and Substance Abuse14:30 Language and Self-Perception17:39 Values and Purpose in Life20:20 Practical Steps to Identify Values23:23 Cultural Influences on Masculinity26:43 Reflections on Personal Choices29:12 Navigating the Culture of Substance Use31:39 The Impact of Alcohol on Self-Perception34:52 Breaking the Cycle of Addiction38:50 Transforming Habits and Mindsets41:17 Redefining Rewards and Punishments47:21 The Balance of Selflessness and Ego51:35 Personal Responsibility and Boundaries01:00:21 Mastering Emotions and Self-Reflection01:03:19 Breaking the Cycle of Negative Mindsets01:06:16 The Impact of Class and Society01:09:11 Mental Health in the Construction Industry01:12:14 Facing Financial Instability and Shame01:15:08 The Importance of Support Systems01:18:04 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth01:26:46 Embracing Life's Journey01:28:34 The Importance of Storytelling01:30:56 Lessons from Childhood01:32:22 The Role of Communication in Relationships01:34:55 Understanding the Inner Child01:38:02 The Power of Selfishness01:40:23 Validation and Emotional Management01:44:30 Coaching and Personal Development01:46:54 Forgiveness and Personal Growth01:49:39 The Power of Choice and Accountability01:52:37 Letting Go of Baggage01:55:59 The Nature of Happiness and Contentment01:59:04 The Calm in Chaos02:02:55 Problem Solving and Proactivity02:04:01 Inner Work and Self-Reflection02:06:41 The Journey of Self-Discovery02:11:51 Turning Points and Choices02:21:18 Choosing Abundance Over Fear02:25:35 The Power of Sharing and Showing

In this episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, I sit down with Lee Evans, host of The Zito Run Podcast, to talk about his powerful story of addiction, trauma, and recovery.Find Lee herehttps://www.instagram.com/the_zito_run_podcast?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Lee opens up about how his childhood experiences shaped who he became, the normalisation of substance use in today’s society, and how addiction is often a response to pain and suffering. He talks about hitting rock bottom, including a near-death experience that changed everything, and how he found his way back through love, accountability, and purpose.This is an honest and emotional conversation about the realities of mental health, loneliness, and the fight to rebuild yourself when you’ve lost everything. Lee shares how literature, education, and self-reflection helped him rediscover his identity and turn his pain into purpose – something he now uses to help others through his podcast The Zito Run.If you or someone you know is struggling, this episode is a reminder that recovery is possible and that healing starts with a conversation.Thanks to our Headline sponsors - Zinsser Episode Sponsors - Brewers Decorating Centres🎧 Watch or listen now — full episode available on all platforms.Chapters00:00 Podcasting Journey and Release Schedule00:01 The Importance of Purpose in Recovery02:50 Understanding Addiction and Its Roots06:07 The Zito Run: A Journey Through Darkness09:00 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact12:11 The Cycle of Addiction and Escapism15:04 Coping Mechanisms and Tools for Recovery17:57 Relationships and Addiction21:14 The Role of Society in Normalizing Addiction24:13 Changing the Narrative Around Addiction27:08 Conscious Choices and Breaking Free29:21 The Power of Choice and Mindset31:54 Understanding Addiction and Triggers33:03 The Journey of Self-Discovery35:07 Finding Purpose in Pain38:53 The Role of Thoughts in Reality39:19 The Impact of Loss and Relationships43:52 The Descent into Addiction48:01 The Turning Point: Seeking Help53:04 The Moment of Reckoning58:21 The Path to Recovery and Self-Acceptance01:03:17 Empowerment Through Knowledge and Experience01:05:39 Living a Life of Purpose and Power01:07:02 The Power of Identity and Labels01:11:27 Understanding Addiction and Recovery01:16:29 The Impact of Trauma on Identity01:21:14 The Role of Education in Personal Growth01:27:13 The Journey of Self-Discovery01:33:07 Living with Purpose and Meaning

From a rough childhood in Poland to standing toe-to-toe in the UK’s bare-knuckle arenas — Rafal Witkowski has lived a life built on fight, focus and pure resilience.Find Rafal Here - https://www.instagram.com/rafix_1991?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==In this raw episode, Rafal opens up about how his dad’s health struggles shaped his mindset, how moving to England changed everything, and how he found purpose through the brutal world of bare-knuckle fighting.He doesn’t just talk about throwing punches — he talks about mental health, sports psychology, and the power of facing your demons head-on. This isn’t just a fighter’s story; it’s a story about surviving, adapting and never giving up.Thanks to our Headline sponsors - Zinsser Episode sponsor - Brewers decorators centres Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rafal Witkowski01:12 Rafal's Early Life in Poland08:02 Family Dynamics and Challenges12:29 Transition to England and New Beginnings19:59 First Exposure to Fighting32:21 Journey into Professional Fighting39:00 Mental Health and Sports Psychology43:32 The Bare Knuckle Experience58:27 Future Aspirations and Upcoming Fights

This week, Russ sits down with Cam — aka @camquestions — the man behind the viral clips and one of the standout personalities and winner of a recent reality tv show.

Find cam Here -

https://www.instagram.com/camquestions?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

In this episode, Cam opens up about his battles with anxiety and intrusive thoughts, and the reality of living with them day to day. He talks about how being part of a big TV show challenged the stereotypes around tradesmen and gave people a chance to see a different side to him.

Cam shares how support from friends, family, and even medication has played a part in his journey — and why we need to start educating young people about mental health early on.

It’s a real and honest chat about feeling isolated, learning to open up, and finding strength through vulnerability. Cam reminds us that small wins matter, and that by speaking out, we can help others feel less alone.

Thanks to this episodes sponsors Brewers Decorators centres

In this episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, I sit down with Darren “The Tarantula” Godfrey Jr. — ranked #2 in the world in Power Slap and lined up for a title shot. Darren opens up about his tough upbringing in Bristol, his raw journey through bare-knuckle fighting, and how those battles shaped the fighter he is today.Find Darren here - https://www.instagram.com/darrengodfreyjnr?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==We talk about what it really takes to stand on the world stage of Power Slap, the brutal honesty of combat sports, and why mental health awareness is just as important as physical strength. Darren gets real about therapy, community, and fighting inner demons — proving that resilience can turn pain into power.This is more than just a conversation about fighting. It’s about survival, growth, and chasing greatness.Thanks to this episodes sponsors Brewers Decorators CentresChapters00:00 Introduction to Power Slap00:30 Understanding Power Slap: Rules and Mechanics02:10 Darren's Journey in Power Slap05:26 The Road to the Title: Training and Competitions08:43 The Experience of Being Scouted10:31 The Evolution of Slap Fighting12:55 Family Life and Support in Combat Sports14:09 The Dynamics of Watching Loved Ones Fight16:12 The Impact of Social Media on Sports19:40 Darren's Background and Early Life20:35 Growing Up in a Tough Environment27:17 The Journey into Fighting34:30 Struggles with Mental Health42:10 Turning Points and Life Changes48:59 Bare-Knuckle Fighting Experience49:04 The Hard Hits of Bare-Knuckle Fighting50:02 The Evolution of Bare-Knuckle Fighting51:16 The Future of Fighting: Opportunities and Aspirations52:01 The Fight Scene: Misfits and New Opportunities53:04 Reflections on a Fighter's Journey54:00 Mental Health and the Fight Game55:08 The Importance of Support and Community56:04 The Role of Therapy in Mental Health57:03 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavour'shttps://www.instagram.com/strettonia.boxing._godfreys?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

This week I sit down with Mark Tiff from Mj Tiff Plumbing and Heating, and we get real about what it’s actually like being a tradesperson today.Find Mark here -https://www.instagram.com/mjtiff_plumbingandheating?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==From long hours and late payments to the pressure of keeping up with social media, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the modern trade industry. Mark opens up about the reality of running a plumbing business in 2025, the mental toll self-employment can take, and how tradespeople are learning to build their personal brand while still doing the graft on site.We dive into: • 💥 The truth about apprenticeships in 2025 • 💥 Why mental health is the hidden battle in the trades • 💥 How social media can make — or break — your reputation • 💥 The reality of chasing payments and dealing with stress • 💥 Where AI could take our industry in the next decadeIf you’re a tradesperson, self-employed, or just curious about what really goes on behind the scenes in construction, this episode is a must-watch.👉 Don’t forget to hit subscribe for more raw conversations from the world of trades.

In this episode, Jamie from JK Painting and Decorating shares his profound journey through trauma, parenting, and the construction industry. Find Jamie here - https://www.instagram.com/jkpanddltd?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==He discusses the impact of his childhood experiences on his relationships and parenting, the struggles with alcoholism and domestic violence at home and the importance of resilience and support systems in overcoming life's challenges. Jamie's story highlights the hidden struggles many face, particularly in the trades, and emphasizes the need for mental health awareness and open conversations about personal experiences. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of personal trauma, fatherhood, and the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships. They discuss the challenges of maintaining professionalism while dealing with personal struggles, the importance of healthy boundaries, and the ongoing battle for parental rights. The dialogue emphasises the significance of self-discovery and resilience in overcoming adversity, as well as the need for open communication and support in navigating the intricacies of parenting and relationships.

In this conversation, Matt Sen shares his incredible journey from poverty to professional boxing, detailing the struggles he faced growing up in a challenging environment. Find Matt Here - https://www.instagram.com/officialmattsen?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==He discusses the importance of authenticity, resilience, and finding purpose through pain. Matt emphasizes the impact of childhood trauma on personal growth and the significance of community support in overcoming adversity. He also highlights his mission to inspire the next generation through his upcoming book and community work, encouraging others to take control of their own stories and rewrite their futures.Thanks to our Headline sponsors Zinsser Episode sponsors - Q1 Tapes Chapters00:00 The Impact of Childhood: Growing Up in Chaos05:55 Understanding Trauma: The Complexity of Family Dynamics11:37 Finding Forgiveness: The Path to Self-Acceptance18:54 Building a New Narrative: From Struggles to Strength23:04 Resilience Through Adversity43:36 Turning Point: Seeking a Better Life46:23 The Struggles of Adulting49:54 Business Ventures and Lessons Learned55:16 The Struggles of Bankruptcy and Self-Worth58:05 The Journey into Boxing: A Coping Mechanism01:01:16 Finding Acceptance in the Boxing Community01:04:28 Turning Professional: A Life-Changing Decision01:07:14 The Reality of Professional Boxing01:10:20 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Winning and Losing01:26:20 Redefining Success and Happiness01:29:33 Understanding Values and Purpose01:29:53 The Journey of Writing and Sharing Stories01:36:20 Inspiring the Next Generation Through Talks01:41:19 Acknowledging Support and Community