Understanding Men is a podcast that challenges expectations around traditional masculinity and explores difficult subjects in the hopes of creating a safe space for men to be vulnerable. The hosts, Luke Sutton and Fraser Franks, both ex-professional sportsmen, have spoken openly about their own experiences with addiction, alcoholism, poor physical health, and poor mental health. Now they're sharing their stories in the hopes that they'll inspire listeners to do the same within their own...
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Episode List

Taking a Break

Dec 2nd, 2024 12:00 AM

In the final episode of Season 1 of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser reflect on their journey over the last 14 months, and share how life has change since they started the podcast. They look back on some of their favourite episodes and share their hopes for the next season of Understanding Men.Luke and Fraser want your ideas for Season 2! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. While the guys are away, keep up to date by following us on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram @understandingmenpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Function of Therapy

Nov 18th, 2024 12:00 AM

In this episode of Understanding Men, Luke and Fraser take a deep dive into therapy and it's various uses. Sharing their own experiences with varying types of therapy throughout their lives, they illustrate how effective it has been in helping them to live well rounded lives. They talk about how other organisations and activities in their lives have been therapeutic, including attendances at Alcoholics Anonymous, meditation, sound baths and water therapy. They also investigate why therapy is more popular than ever, and look into the reasons why people may avoid or never begin therapeutic treatment. Finally, they address situations where they believe overuse or misuse of therapy can do more harm than good, and highlight the importance of also having quality relationships with the people around you. Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram @understandingmenpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Small Announcement...

Nov 11th, 2024 12:00 AM

Instead of the regular episode this week, we have a small announcement just to update you on how the podcast is going to work for a little while. As ever, Luke and Fraser want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram @understandingmenpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talking Politics

Nov 4th, 2024 12:00 AM

On the eve of the US election, Luke and Fraser take the opportunity to discuss politics and its effect on each of their lives. They discuss their understanding of UK and US politics, and share how their upbringing has shaped their views.They highlight their reasons for their interest or disinterest in politics, and demonstrate how political decisions have had a direct effect on themselves and those around them. Looking at the US election, they dissect the impact the young male vote may have in deciding the future president, and wonder if disenfranchised men may be a vital demographic for political leaders to win over.Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram @understandingmenpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Reality of Fame

Oct 28th, 2024 12:00 AM

Trigger warning: This episode includes subjects such as suicide and substance abuse, which some individuals may find distressing.Motivated by the recent passing of singer-songwriter Liam Payne, Luke and Fraser address the unseen side of fame, and explore ongoing issues facing individuals in the public eye. Drawing comparisons with their own sobriety journeys, they highlight the contributing factors that can cause problems with alcohol and substance abuse, and discuss whether these can be addressed earlier in an individual's career.Reflecting on the amount of attention and scrutiny that the members of One Direction faced at the height of their fame, Luke and Fraser discuss if they were at all prepared, and agree that record labels, along with sports teams and clubs, should fulfil a lifelong duty of care.Finally, they address the importance of effective and robust support when embarking on a recovery journey, and the difficulty of being in the spotlight when undertaking something so emotionally and physically challenging.Luke and Fraser also want to hear from you! Let us know the subjects you'd like to hear more about, and what would help you start having those difficult conversations. Follow us on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram @understandingmenpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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