Show Notes
Joe Wicks – a national fitness treasure – had a turbulent 2025. After speaking out against protein bars and ultra-processed food, he faced an unexpected backlash. Once the nation’s PE teacher during lockdown, Joe joins us to reflect on the emotional impact of that criticism, and how he balances family life with the pressure to maintain a flawless public image.
In this candid chat, Joe discusses his new cookbook, which focuses on helping us add more protein to our diets, and brings his trademark warmth and honesty. He opens up about his concerns around social media, and shares how his children are beginning to understand his rise to fame.
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Timecodes 00:00 Introduction 02:16 Why is Everyone Obsessed With Protein? 03:10 The Real Benefits of Protein for Women & Perimenopause 05:10 The "Protein Halo": Avoiding Ultra-Processed Food (UPF) 06:36 The Link Between Diet, Mood, and Mental Health 08:14 Why Joe Wicks Made the Controversial UPF Documentary 10:11 Facing Backlash from the Fitness Community 12:12 Why the Food Industry Stresses Joe Out 14:15 Is Healthy Eating Too Expensive? 16:32 The Power of Batch Cooking & Meal Planning 18:24 Rejecting "Perfection" in Nutrition 20:14 Joe Wicks on Vulnerability and "Off Days" 22:11 Why Authenticity is More Important Than a "Highlights Reel" 24:00 The Dangers of AI Filters and Fitness Influencers 25:54 How to Beat Phone Addiction 27:18 Joe Wicks on His Political Legacy (The Next Jamie Oliver?) 29:02 Homeschooling and Raising Healthy Kids 31:20 Joe’s Top Tip: How to Get Kids to Eat Vegetables 34:18 Transitioning from Veganism to an Omnivore Diet 37:16 The "Phone Free Dad" Rule & Importance of Sleep
More from Joe Wicks: New book Protein in 15 Joe’s website Follow Joe on Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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