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

In this conversation, mental health advocate Sam Wilkes shares his personal journey with mental health, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and open communication. Find Sam here - https://www.instagram.com/samwilkesofficial?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==He discusses the impact of parenting on children's mental health, the necessity of coping strategies, and the role of education in raising awareness. The conversation also explores the dual nature of social media, highlighting both its potential benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, Sam encourages listeners to find purpose in their pain and to engage in honest discussions about mental health to break the stigma surrounding it. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of mental health, particularly in relation to social media, parenting, and personal trauma. They discuss the importance of awareness and education around mental health, especially for children, and the challenges of navigating these issues in today's digital age. The conversation also touches on personal experiences of trauma, the masks people wear to cope, and the significance of connection and communication in overcoming struggles. Ultimately, the speakers emphasise the importance of seeking help and the power of sharing one's story to inspire others.Thanks to our Headline Sponsors - Zinsser Episode Sponsors - Wooster uk & Abode Academy

In this episode, Ben Butler shares his powerful story of growing up in a predominantly white area as a mixed-race child, facing racism, violence, and family turmoil. He discusses his journey through childhood trauma, involvement in crime, and the impact of drugs and violence on his life. Find Ben Here - https://www.instagram.com/newgenerationcoaching?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Ben reflects on his experiences in football hooliganism and the challenges of navigating identity and acceptance. Ultimately, he emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing mental health issues within the context of his life story. In this conversation, the speaker reflects on a tumultuous past filled with violence, substance abuse, and the impact of loss. They discuss their experiences in prison, the friendships formed, and the journey towards forgiveness and self-acceptance. The speaker emphasizes the importance of transforming trauma into purpose by mentoring the next generation and helping others navigate similar struggles. The conversation highlights the complexities of identity, the challenges of life after prison, and the ongoing journey of healing and personal growth.Pre-order Bens upcoming book - Misunderstood here https://marcia-m-publishing-house.sumupstore.com/product/misunderstood-by-ben-butler-preorder Thanks to our Headline Sponsors Zinsser ukEpisode Sponsors - Wooster ukQ1 Tapes Abode Academy

In this episode, Big Rob, a full-time OnlyFans creator, shares his unique journey into the adult content industry, discussing his background, previous careers, and the challenges he faces in a saturated market.

Find Rob here -

https://www.instagram.com/iamb1gr0b?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

His content primarily caters to the gay community, despite being a straight man

He opens up about his mental health struggles, the importance of community support, and his aspirations for the future, including a fundraising walk for cancer research. The conversation delves into the dynamics of fan interactions, personal boundaries in content creation, and the significance of finding purpose in life.

In this episode, John Skelton, a decorator from the Isle of Man, shares his journey of establishing his business amidst personal and financial struggles.

Find John here -

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

He discusses the unique challenges of running a business in a small community, the importance of branding, and the impact of personal loss on his professional life. John emphasizes the significance of community support and the loyalty of customers in the Isle of Man, while also addressing the difficulties of scaling a business and the realities of being self-employed.

He reflects on his aspirations for the future and the opportunities that lie ahead. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various themes including the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences, the challenges of parenthood, coping with loss, aspirations for business growth, the value of skilled trades, the potential for regulation in the industry, and the mental health crisis within the construction sector.

They share personal experiences and insights, emphasising the significance of hard work, resilience, and self-care.

Thanks to our Headline Sponsors - Zinsser

Episode Sponsors - Monarch