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.