The Peer Project Podcast

Episode 20 - Joe H: From Out of Breath to Gladiators Semifinalist – The Bearded Dad Who Stole the Show

Joe Holroyde—known to millions as “Joe H”—joins The Peer Project just before the grand finale of Gladiators 2025. But his story goes far beyond red Lycra and obstacle courses.
 
Once unable to run down the street, Joe turned his life around to become one of the most beloved contenders on TV. In this powerful and heartwarming episode, Joe opens up about his journey, the message behind that travelator moment, imposter syndrome, his surprise BBC casting, and inspiring other bearded dads to take that first step.
 
Whether you’re looking for motivation, a reason to smile, or proof that it’s never too late—this one’s for you.
 
Listen, be inspired, and maybe even start moving again.
 
Supporters Club: https://thepeerproject.co.uk/supporters
 
#JoeH #Gladiators2025 #ThePeerProject #JoeHolroyd #BeardedDad #FitnessJourney #FromUnfitToFinalist #MentalHealth #BBCGladiators #Inspiration #OvercomingDoubt #TransformationStory #RealConversations

Episode 19 - Tourette’s, Tics & Truth: Nicole’s Story

Nicole Dyer is 18, creative, kind, and living with Tourette’s Syndrome — but that’s only part of her story. In this raw and refreshingly honest episode, I sit down with Nicole and her brilliantly blunt mum Jodie to talk about life beyond the tics.
We cover everything: what a tic attack really feels like, the misconceptions they face daily, how social media has been both a lifeline and a battleground, and why Nicole refuses to let Tourette’s define her.
From airport security scares to unwanted prayers, whistling birds to online hate, this episode is packed with laughs, jaw-drops, brutal truths, and a powerful bond between mum and daughter. Jodie’s sarcasm is razor-sharp, Nicole’s openness is inspiring, and their relationship is something really special.
If you’ve ever misunderstood Tourette’s — or want to know what true resilience looks like — this one’s for you.
Trigger warning: Includes honest discussions around mental health, self-harm, and bullying.
If you enjoy the episode, please give it a thumbs up, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and hit subscribe so you don’t miss what’s coming next.
And if you want to support what I’m doing, join The Peer Project Supporters Club for just £5 a month — you’ll get ad-free episodes, behind-the-scenes extras, and be part of the reason this podcast keeps growing:
thepeerproject.co.uk/supporters

Episode 18 - How I De-Red Pilled My Own Son

How I De-Red Pilled My Own Son
The Peer Project Podcast
 
When Rachel Parker’s 11-year-old son told her “women are gold diggers,” she knew something was wrong.
 
In this powerful episode, Rachel opens up about how the internet — and the algorithm — exposed her son to red pill ideology, and how she slowly, gently, and bravely brought him back.
 
We talk about:
•Red pill content and the damage it causes
•What parents need to know about the algorithm
•Raising emotionally safe boys
•How connection, not control, changes everything
 
This is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone who cares about the next generation of boys.
 
Follow Rachel on TikTok: @rchlprkr
Support The Peer Project: thepeerproject.co.uk/supporters
 
🎧 New episodes every week. Subscribe and share if this conversation moved you.

Episode 17 - Alec Benjamin Opens Up about Mental Health and Songwriting

In this heartfelt episode of The Peer Project, I sit down with Alec Benjamin for an open and honest chat about music, mental health, and the power of meaningful songwriting. Alec shares how his personal struggles have shaped his music, his journey with ADHD and OCD, and what inspires him to create songs that truly connect with people.
We also chat about the importance of fitness for mental well-being, the story behind Mind is a Prison, and the impact of powerful lyrics like I Built a Friend. Plus, there’s a touching moment where my daughter joins us — and it’s one I’ll never forget.
💬 Join The Peer Project Supporters Club for ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and the chance to sit in on celebrity interviews: www.thepeerproject.co.uk/supporters
🎧 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode — your support makes a huge difference!

Positivity Pocket 2: You Are More Than Your Struggles

Welcome to The Peer Project: Positivity Pocket! 🌈
In this episode, I’m opening up about something deeply personal — my imperfections.
I’m 41 years old, I’m in debt, I don’t own a home, and I don’t have financial security. I’ve struggled with my weight, my teeth, and my appearance. Some days, it feels overwhelming — like I’m failing at life.
But here’s what I’ve learned: You are more than your imperfections.
I may not be where I thought I’d be by now, but I’m proud of the life I’ve built — the friendships, the memories, and the love I’ve given and received.
So, if you’re feeling like you’re not enough — like you’re falling behind — know this: You are enough.
💬 Let me know in the comments — what’s something about yourself you’re learning to embrace?
➡️ Want to support the show? Join the Executive Producer Programme for exclusive content, ad-free episodes, and behind-the-scenes access. Sign up here: producers.thepeerproject.co.uk

Positivity Pocket 1 - Kindness Can Change Everything

Video Description for Positivity Pocket Episode 1: The Ripple Effect of Kindness
 
Welcome to The Peer Project: Positivity Pocket! 🌈
 
In this episode, I’m sharing a simple but powerful reminder: Kindness matters.
 
I recently experienced how one negative interaction ruined my day — but it also reminded me how one positive moment can do the exact opposite. Whether it’s a smile from a stranger, a thoughtful message, or simply being kind to yourself, these small acts create ripples that can make a big difference.
 
If this video leaves you feeling inspired, pass it on — not by sharing this video (though that’s always appreciated), but by doing something kind today.
 
💬 What’s a small act of kindness that made a big impact on you? Let me know in the comments!
 
🎧 Available as a podcast too — search for The Peer Project: Positivity Pocket.
 
➡️ Want to support the show? Join the Executive Producer Programme for exclusive content, ad-free episodes, and behind-the-scenes access. Sign up here: producers.thepeerproject.co.uk
 
#PositivityPocket #KindnessMatters #MentalHealth #ThePeerProject

Episode 16 - Rebecca Goodwin - The Interview She Deserved

Rebecca Goodwin recently appeared on a podcast where she was completely disrespected—talked over, misrepresented, and made to feel uncomfortable. That didn’t sit right with me, so I reached out and invited her on The Peer Project to give her the space she deserved—a real conversation, no agenda, no cheap shots.
In this episode, Rebecca opens up about:✅ The fallout from her viral podcast walkout✅ The impact of online hate and media scrutiny✅ Breaking down misconceptions about her career✅ Her affordable housing project and why giving back is so important to her✅ Her long-term plans, family life, and how she’s shaping her future
This is Rebecca Goodwin like you’ve never heard her before.
🔹 Join the Executive Producer Programme: producers.thepeerproject.co.uk
If you got something from this episode, please hit like, subscribe, and share—it helps more than you know!

Your Inner Voice is Lying to You – Let’s Take Our Confidence Back

That little voice in your head? The one that tells you you’re not good enough, not smart enough, not capable enough? It’s lying. I’ve spent way too long listening to my own self-doubt, talking myself out of things, and believing I wasn’t worthy of success. But today, we’re changing that—together. In this episode of The Peer Project, we’re diving into: ✅ How to challenge negative self-talk ✅ The tricks your brain plays to keep you stuck ✅ How to start rebuilding your confidence TODAY This isn’t just a video—it’s a journey we’re taking together. Because confidence isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you build. 💬 Drop a comment and let me know—what’s one thing your inner voice has told you that you know isn’t true? Let’s talk about it. 🔹 Want to support the podcast & be part of the journey? Join the Executive Producer Programme and get access to behind-the-scenes content, exclusive perks, and early access to episodes: 👉 producers.thepeerproject.co.uk Let’s start fighting back against self-doubt. We’ve got this. 💙

Losing Confidence Sucks - Let's Get Our Confidence Back Together

Losing confidence sucks. I know because I’ve been there. Once upon a time, I felt strong, sure of myself, and ready to take on the world. But life happens, and somewhere along the way, I lost that belief in myself. If you’re feeling the same way—like your confidence has taken a hit—this video is for us. This isn’t just me talking at you; we’re in this together. In this video, we’ll break down what knocks our confidence, why it’s so hard to rebuild, and—most importantly—what we can actually do about it. No toxic positivity, no empty motivation—just real, honest conversation about getting our self-belief back. 💙 Want to support The Peer Project? Join the Executive Producer Programme! By becoming an Executive Producer, you’ll help keep this podcast going, get exclusive ad-free episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and even sit in on celebrity interviews before they go live. If you believe in what we’re building here, I’d love for you to be part of it: producers.thepeerproject.co.uk Let’s do this together. Drop a comment and let me know one thing that’s helped YOU feel more confident recently. 🚀✨

Episode 15 - Yoz Mensch - I Was Terrified to Tell My Family…

🎙️ I Was Terrified to Tell My Family… | The Peer Project In this raw and emotional episode of The Peer Project, Chris Duke sits down with comedian, theatre-maker, and artist Yoz Mensch to discuss their journey of self-discovery, navigating identity, and finding confidence in their authentic self.
From growing up in Australia and moving between nine schools to becoming a renowned performer, Yoz opens up about the challenges of being non-binary, dealing with ADHD, and the power of modern clowning to express and heal.
 
💬 Topics Covered in This Episode:
• Why Yoz was scared to tell their family about their identity
• The highs and lows of performing at the Edinburgh Fringe • How clowning helped Yoz embrace their true self
• Insights on mental health, kindness, and navigating life’s challenges
 
🎉 Want to Sponsor This Podcast?
Reach a growing audience of 12,000+ subscribers and 3.5 million weekly listeners on Coast Radio Scotland! Email 📩 podcasts@chrisduke.co.uk for details. 🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring stories from incredible guests.
 
🌟 Follow Yoz Mensch: Instagram/TikTok: @yazihaha
💡 About The Peer Project:
The Peer Project is a podcast dedicated to honest, heartfelt conversations about life, mental health, and the stories that shape us. Hosted by Chris Duke, the show features unfiltered interviews with people from all walks of life, sharing lessons, laughter, and inspiration.
👉 Next Episode Teaser: You won’t want to miss our conversation with a legendary actor and TV dad! Stay tuned… #ThePeerProject #YozMensch #MentalHealth #NonBinary #ADHD #Comedy #Podcast #EdinburghFringe #Clowning