What happens when you blend elite-level strength coaching with genuine heart for community?

This week, we’re joined by the enigmatic Dave Hembrough—founder of Mettle, long-time strength coach, and a man with one of the most grounded, virtuous philosophies in the game. Whether it’s coaching Olympic lifters, youth athletes, or complete beginners, Dave leads with values first—and that’s what sets him and Mettle apart.

In this episode, we cover:

• - How Dave fell in love with Olympic lifting and coaching

• - His purpose statement—and how to define your own

• - Why coaching with values—not ego—is a game changer

• - How he's guiding his daughter Nina into the world of sport and movement with care and intention

• - What makes an effective sporting parent (and how to support your child without pressure)

• - Why the world needs more virtuous thinkers in fitness and beyond

• - His experience working with Olympic-level athletes and national sports teams

• - The future of Mettle and how it’s redefining strength training as a vehicle for social change

• - His role at Sheffield Hallam—blending academic insight with hands-on performance coaching (a "pracademic")

• - How youth and community programs at Mettle are lifting more than just weight

• Whether you're a coach, a parent, or just someone passionate about people-first performance, this one is a masterclass in purpose-led leadership.

  
  

• #PurposefulParenting

  #StrengthInValues

  #RaisingGoodHumans

  #FitWithHeart

  #CommunityThroughSport

If you're a personal trainer (or thinking about becoming one), this episode is a must.

This week on the Fit Dads Podcast, Ryan & Brad are joined by Dave Ireson, founder of Envisage Training, an industry leader in fitness education and one of the most respected voices in the coaching space.

With over 30 years in the game, Dave brings a powerful combo of lived experience, professional insight, and sincere honesty about what it really takes to thrive in the fitness industry today.

We get into:

The future of personal training (and what needs to change)

What makes a great course—and how Envisage set the bar

From burnout to business - the real challenges PT's face in 2025

Dave’s own journey — from setbacks to setting up his own education company

How coeliac disease changed his personal health approach

Parenting a child with type 1 diabetes—and the perspective it brings

Whether you're a previous Envisage learner, brand new to the industry or 10 years deep and still learning, this one’s for you. Expect real talk, practical advice, and some seriously inspiring stories.

Check out Envisage Training to discover their upcoming courses→ envisagetraining.co.uk

#PersonalTrainerLife

#FitnessEducation

#CoeliacAwareness

#Type1Strong

#CoachToCoach

Tips, Tactics & Ryan's Glasgow Experience with Dan Smith

Whether you've got one planned or are thinking about jumping into Hyrox doubles... This episode is for you!

The Fit Dads were joined by the ever-inspiring Dan Smith as they break down everything you need to know about competing in Hyrox Doubles event.

This is our second time covering a Hyrox topic (check out our first episode here) and we dive deeper into the Hyrox format—which combines 8 unique fitness stations with running—and cover everything from event rules to travel tips.

Ryan and Dan reflect heavily on their experience at their recent Glasgow event, sharing their tactical insights and personal takeaways as a Hyrox Doubles team.

Whether you’re prepping for your first doubles race or still figuring out the basics, this episode has got you covered.

If you’ve enjoyed this episode of the Fit Dads Podcast, hit subscribe and leave a rating and review, it helps the show grow and inspires more parents to be their child's hero!