What does it truly mean to be a man today? And how do we raise boys to grow into emotionally intelligent, resilient men?

In this profoundly moving episode of the Different Hats Podcast, I sit down with Andrew Jenkins, mental health advocate, speaker, and breakout voice from BBC’s The Traitors—for a conversation that cuts to the core of masculinity, trauma, and the power of vulnerability.

Andrew shares his harrowing experience of surviving a car accident that changed his life forever, and how he stayed silent about the emotional aftermath for over two decades. Now, he’s using his voice to help others find theirs.

Together, we explore:

💬 The silent crisis facing young men. and why suicide rates are still rising

🏉 The role of sport and father figures in shaping emotional awareness

💔 Andrew’s emotional journey from silence to telling his son "I love you" for the first time at age 22

👂 Why men don’t need fixing, they just need someone to listen

📣 How schools, sports clubs, and parents can create emotionally safe spaces

This is more than a conversation. It’s a call to action, to change how we talk to our boys, how we show up for one another, and how we redefine what strength really means.

If you're a parent, coach, teacher, leader, or someone on your own healing journey, this episode might just change the way you see the world.

00:00 – Introductions

04:10 – The Crisis in Men’s Mental Health: Where Do We Start?

08:25 – The Pressure of Modern Life and Climbing the Wrong Ladder

11:30 – Redefining Positive Masculinity in Schools and Sports

17:30 – The Power of Vulnerable Role Models

22:50 – Parental Pressure, Generational Trauma & Starting Conversations at Home

29:10 – The Moment Andrew Told His Son “I Love You”

35:20 – Academy Dropouts & Mental Health in Young Athletes

42:00 – How Parents Can Be Better Equipped Emotionally

47:15 – Creating a Culture That Celebrates Emotional Intelligence

55:00 – Breaking the Cycle: Speaking to His Own Parents for the First Time

1:02:30 – The Fear of Regret and Taking Your Own Advice

1:07:20 – Men’s Support Networks & Listening Without Judgement

1:13:50 – The Power of Hope, Safe Spaces & Prevention Over Cure

1:20:00 – Why Andrew Said Yes to The Traitors

1:26:30 – Behind the Fame: Finding Purpose Through Platform

1:38:50 – A Message to Young Andrew: Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself

1:45:00 – Redefining Success and Happiness: Final Reflection

🔔 Subscribe, comment, and join the journey to redefine success through real, human stories.

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