What happens when a man stops running from pain and starts facing it?

In this raw and powerful episode, Smith sits down with Ben Hill, a former client and now a successful positive psychology coach, to unpack the journey from emotional avoidance to personal ownership.

Ben opens up about being abandoned by his father as a child, a wound that led him down a path of seeking validation, numbing emotion with food and alcohol, and chasing success in a career he hated.

Eventually, the pain of staying the same became greater than the pain of change.

What followed was a radical turnaround:

• He removed alcohol.
• He faced his emotions head-on.
• He walked away from a ‘safe’ job and built a purpose-led coaching business helping others do the same.

This episode covers the cost of emotional suppression, the reality of becoming sober, the courage to walk away from comfort, and the resilience required to build something real.

In this episode, we explore:

– The emotional impact of fatherlessness and how it shapes adult behaviour – Why success and self-destruction often go hand-in-hand – The real reason alcohol becomes a crutch and how to break the cycle – What it takes to leave a career you hate – Building self-worth from the inside out – How Ben now helps others break free from the same patterns

Connect with Ben: LinkedIn – Ben Hill Website – Ask More Coaching

Get in touch with Smith & Mayhew : hello@agameconsultancy.com

Adam Smith

From depressed and suicidal to the happiest and fittest he’s ever been, Adam Smith’s self-development journey hasn’t been easy but it has been worth it. Today, he’s a qualified mindset coach in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and a certified Time Line Therapist®.

Adam has coached many high performers, using NLP to rewire his clients’ thoughts and behaviours so they can destroy limiting beliefs and engineer the change needed to excel.

Connect with Adam Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/

Adam Mayhew

Adam Mayhew swapped burnout and binge drinking for ultra marathons, CrossFit and sobriety. A registered nutritional therapist specialising in performance nutrition, Adam supports everyone from office workers to athletes to build healthy eating habits.

Using science (and never fad diets, quick fixes or gym bro culture) he helps clients target their problem areas and confidently master diet, training and lifestyle.

Connect with Adam Mayhew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mayhew-nutrition-coaching/

To find out more about Smith & Mayhew: https://agameconsultancy.com/about/

Welcome to the first of our bonus episodes "Sort Your Shit Out With Smith". As well as our regular longer form Wednesday episodes, we now release extra shorter content on Mondays. Listen out for Master Your Mind with Mayhew next Monday.

In this inaugural episode Smith tackles the myths around imposter syndrome, procrastination, and perfectionism – and why these are often just shiny labels hiding low self-esteem. You’ll learn how to challenge your beliefs, change your language, and use curiosity instead of criticism. Plus, we unpack why saying “I’ve got no confidence” is about as useful as saying “I’m useless”.

If you want to get in touch, please drop the lads a line : hello@agameconsultancy.com

Adam Smith

From depressed and suicidal to the happiest and fittest he’s ever been, Adam Smith’s self-development journey hasn’t been easy but it has been worth it. Today, he’s a qualified mindset coach in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and a certified Time Line Therapist®.

Adam has coached many high performers, using NLP to rewire his clients’ thoughts and behaviours so they can destroy limiting beliefs and engineer the change needed to excel.

Connect with Adam Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/

Adam Mayhew

Adam Mayhew swapped burnout and binge drinking for ultra marathons, CrossFit and sobriety. A registered nutritional therapist specialising in performance nutrition, Adam supports everyone from office workers to athletes to build healthy eating habits.

Using science (and never fad diets, quick fixes or gym bro culture) he helps clients target their problem areas and confidently master diet, training and lifestyle.

Connect with Adam Mayhew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mayhew-nutrition-coaching/

To find out more about Smith & Mayhew: https://agameconsultancy.com/about/

In this episode, Smith and Mayhew explore the teachings of Epictetus — a former slave turned Stoic philosopher — and why his 2,000-year-old advice might be exactly what modern men need. We break down what true freedom means, how to stop reacting to everything around you, and how mastering your mind gives you a shot at real peace, purpose, and resilience.

We unpack five key principles, from detaching from outcomes to being the gatekeeper of your thoughts. There’s practical reflection, some tough truths about booze, responsibility and self-sabotage — and yes, a story about a grown man who got so drunk he literally lost a hotel, his dignity, and his underpants! Spoiler: it wasn’t the bartender’s fault.

If you want your question answered on a future episode, please drop the lads a line : hello@agameconsultancy.com

Adam Smith

From depressed and suicidal to the happiest and fittest he’s ever been, Adam Smith’s self-development journey hasn’t been easy but it has been worth it. Today, he’s a qualified mindset coach in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and a certified Time Line Therapist®.

Adam has coached many high performers, using NLP to rewire his clients’ thoughts and behaviours so they can destroy limiting beliefs and engineer the change needed to excel.

Connect with Adam Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/

Adam Mayhew

Adam Mayhew swapped burnout and binge drinking for ultra marathons, CrossFit and sobriety. A registered nutritional therapist specialising in performance nutrition, Adam supports everyone from office workers to athletes to build healthy eating habits.

Using science (and never fad diets, quick fixes or gym bro culture) he helps clients target their problem areas and confidently master diet, training and lifestyle.

Connect with Adam Mayhew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mayhew-nutrition-coaching/

To find out more about Smith & Mayhew: https://agameconsultancy.com/about/

"Most people aren't addicted to their phone, they are addicted to escaping themselves"

Welcome to the first of our bonus episodes "Master your Mind with Mayhew". As well as our regular longer form Wednesday episodes, we now release extra shorter content on Mondays. Listen out for Sort your Shit out with Smith next Monday.

In this inaugural episode, Mayhew dives into the overlooked power of stillness in a world drowning in distraction. From the sneaky grip of phone addiction to the irony of self-help overload, he explore how overstimulation is quietly sabotaging mental clarity, purpose, and peace

If you want to get in touch, please drop the lads a line : hello@agameconsultancy.com

Adam Smith

From depressed and suicidal to the happiest and fittest he’s ever been, Adam Smith’s self-development journey hasn’t been easy but it has been worth it. Today, he’s a qualified mindset coach in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and a certified Time Line Therapist®.

Adam has coached many high performers, using NLP to rewire his clients’ thoughts and behaviours so they can destroy limiting beliefs and engineer the change needed to excel.

Connect with Adam Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/

Adam Mayhew

Adam Mayhew swapped burnout and binge drinking for ultra marathons, CrossFit and sobriety. A registered nutritional therapist specialising in performance nutrition, Adam supports everyone from office workers to athletes to build healthy eating habits.

Using science (and never fad diets, quick fixes or gym bro culture) he helps clients target their problem areas and confidently master diet, training and lifestyle.

Connect with Adam Mayhew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mayhew-nutrition-coaching/

To find out more about Smith & Mayhew: https://agameconsultancy.com/about/

This episode is about the thoughts that hold you back, the actions that pull you forward, and why being present beats being perfect.

Smith & Mayhew explore anxiety, negative self-talk, and the daily mind games that stop so many men from showing up fully—in the gym, at home, and in life. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, doubted yourself mid-set, or wondered if you're living the life you really want, this one's for you. Oh, and if you've ever used the phrase "Fattibumbum" in a serious conversation—you're not alone.

Register your interest in our retreat in March 2026: https://agameconsultancy.com/retreat/

Martha Beck is the guest on Modern Wisdom that Smith talks about - Check out her book "Beyond Anxiety" : AmazonUK

If you want your question answered on a future episode, please drop the lads a line : hello@agameconsultancy.com

Adam Smith

From depressed and suicidal to the happiest and fittest he’s ever been, Adam Smith’s self-development journey hasn’t been easy but it has been worth it. Today, he’s a qualified mindset coach in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and a certified Time Line Therapist®.

Adam has coached many high performers, using NLP to rewire his clients’ thoughts and behaviours so they can destroy limiting beliefs and engineer the change needed to excel.

Connect with Adam Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/

Adam Mayhew

Adam Mayhew swapped burnout and binge drinking for ultra marathons, CrossFit and sobriety. A registered nutritional therapist specialising in performance nutrition, Adam supports everyone from office workers to athletes to build healthy eating habits.

Using science (and never fad diets, quick fixes or gym bro culture) he helps clients target their problem areas and confidently master diet, training and lifestyle.

Connect with Adam Mayhew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mayhew-nutrition-coaching/

To find out more about Smith & Mayhew: https://agameconsultancy.com/about/

This episode is dedicated to Smith's Aunty Anne - a woman who faced unimaginable adversity with grace and strength. More than a tribute, this is a reflection on the powerful lessons she shared with those around her: from picking your battles and setting boundaries to truly showing up for the people you love.

Smith explores how her wisdom still applies today - whether it’s smiling in the face of hardship, refusing to play the victim, or the subtle art of saying “no” with love. There’s also a strong reminder that listening (without fixing) is a lost skill, and that being there for someone doesn’t mean solving their problems.

If you want your question answered on a future episode, please drop the lads a line : hello@agameconsultancy.com

Adam Smith

From depressed and suicidal to the happiest and fittest he’s ever been, Adam Smith’s self-development journey hasn’t been easy but it has been worth it. Today, he’s a qualified mindset coach in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and a certified Time Line Therapist®.

Adam has coached many high performers, using NLP to rewire his clients’ thoughts and behaviours so they can destroy limiting beliefs and engineer the change needed to excel.

Connect with Adam Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/

Adam Mayhew

Adam Mayhew swapped burnout and binge drinking for ultra marathons, CrossFit and sobriety. A registered nutritional therapist specialising in performance nutrition, Adam supports everyone from office workers to athletes to build healthy eating habits.

Using science (and never fad diets, quick fixes or gym bro culture) he helps clients target their problem areas and confidently master diet, training and lifestyle.

Connect with Adam Mayhew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mayhew-nutrition-coaching/

To find out more about Smith & Mayhew: https://agameconsultancy.com/about/

"Are You Being Mindful – Or Is Your Mind Just Full?"

In this episode, Smith & Mayhew dive headfirst into the world of mindfulness, meditation, and mental resilience — but don’t worry, it’s not all incense and chanting. The lads discuss how mindfulness has shaped their daily routines, the difference between healthy standards and obsessive habits, and why it's actually powerful to just sit still with your own thoughts (even if it’s bloody uncomfortable). Mayhew shares insights from his recent meditation teacher training, including the teachings of Jon Kabat-Zinn, silent Zoom sessions, and the unexpected power of wiggling your fingers in a Yorkshire accent.

From ADHD to mobile phone dependency, they explore how men can start taking back control of their attention and inner calm — one deep breath at a time. Warning: contains unsolicited bush trimming, poo parties, and a few spiritual epiphanies!

Resources mentioned during this episode:

Jon Kabat-Zinn – Wherever You Go, There You Are : Buy on Amazon UK

If you want your question answered on a future episode, please drop the lads a line : hello@agameconsultancy.com

Adam Smith

From depressed and suicidal to the happiest and fittest he’s ever been, Adam Smith’s self-development journey hasn’t been easy but it has been worth it. Today, he’s a qualified mindset coach in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and a certified Time Line Therapist®.

Adam has coached many high performers, using NLP to rewire his clients’ thoughts and behaviours so they can destroy limiting beliefs and engineer the change needed to excel.

Connect with Adam Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/

Adam Mayhew

Adam Mayhew swapped burnout and binge drinking for ultra marathons, CrossFit and sobriety. A registered nutritional therapist specialising in performance nutrition, Adam supports everyone from office workers to athletes to build healthy eating habits.

Using science (and never fad diets, quick fixes or gym bro culture) he helps clients target their problem areas and confidently master diet, training and lifestyle.

Connect with Adam Mayhew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mayhew-nutrition-coaching/

To find out more about Smith & Mayhew: https://agameconsultancy.com/about/

In this raw and powerful episode, Smith & Mayhew dive deep into the roots of behaviour, self-sabotage, and the impact of unresolved childhood trauma. They discuss the contrasting theories of Freud (cause and effect) and Adler (purpose and choice), all through the lens of real coaching experiences. With brutally honest storytelling, they explore how early abuse, gaslighting, and emotional manipulation can shape a man’s self-worth — and how it can be unlearned.

Expect conversation around “healing the boy so the man can appear”, breaking out of victimhood, and what it really means to take responsibility. They also unpack imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and the seductive comfort of feeling like crap... yes, really. Oh, and there's a solid gym story involving burpees, rowers, and insecure side-eyes 👀 Classic!

The book that Mayhew mentioned is The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt and the study is Pursuing Happiness - https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/Pursuing_Happiness-_The_Architecture_of_Sustainable_Change.pdf

If you want your question answered on a future episode, please drop the lads a line : hello@agameconsultancy.com

Adam Smith

From depressed and suicidal to the happiest and fittest he’s ever been, Adam Smith’s self-development journey hasn’t been easy but it has been worth it. Today, he’s a qualified mindset coach in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and a certified Time Line Therapist®.

Adam has coached many high performers, using NLP to rewire his clients’ thoughts and behaviours so they can destroy limiting beliefs and engineer the change needed to excel.

Connect with Adam Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/

Adam Mayhew

Adam Mayhew swapped burnout and binge drinking for ultra marathons, CrossFit and sobriety. A registered nutritional therapist specialising in performance nutrition, Adam supports everyone from office workers to athletes to build healthy eating habits.

Using science (and never fad diets, quick fixes or gym bro culture) he helps clients target their problem areas and confidently master diet, training and lifestyle.

Connect with Adam Mayhew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mayhew-nutrition-coaching/

To find out more about Smith & Mayhew: https://agameconsultancy.com/about/