Welcome to The Male Fertility Podcast, a show hosted by Ciaran and Shaun - two men who have walked the challenging path of fertility struggles themselves. With a mission to break the silence and stigma surrounding male fertility issues, they share their personal stories, insights, and knowledge to provide support, education, and inspiration to men facing similar challenges.
In this unique and underrepresented podcast, you'll discover why this show is a crucial resource for anyone dealing with male fertility concerns.
Male fertility is often a hushed topic, leaving many feeling isolated and uninformed. The Male Fertility Podcast opens a candid and empathetic dialogue, letting you know you're not alone in this journey. Whether you're a man navigating fertility issues or a partner supporting your loved one, this podcast offers a wealth of information and encouragement.
Ciaran and Shaun share their personal stories, offering a raw and authentic look into their fertility struggles. This unfiltered approach makes their content relatable and provides a genuine connection with the audience.
In addition to the hosts' experiences, The Male Fertility Podcast brings in guest speakers who share their own fertility journeys, adding diverse perspectives and stories to the conversation. The show also features expert speakers who provide valuable insights and medical guidance to help listeners better understand the complexities of male fertility.
This podcast is proudly sponsored by ExSeed Health (www.exseedhealth.com), a leading name in the field of male fertility. ExSeed Health have created a new wave of fertility testing products, including their at-home sperm tests, to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to take control of their fertility journey.
Stay connected with The Male Fertility Podcast on Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast. Follow us for updates, inspiration, and a supportive community of individuals who understand what you're going through.
Or drop us an email - themalefertilitypodcast@gmail.com
Don't miss out on this invaluable resource for male fertility issues. Subscribe today, and together, we can break the silence and provide the support and education men need during their fertility journey. You are not alone.
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The Male Bag | Four Things I Wish I’d Known on My Fertility Journey
Season 4 · Episode 19
Wednesday, September 3, 2025 • Duration 19:45
In this powerful episode of The Male Bag, Ciaran shares four lessons he wishes he had known at the start of his fertility journey. He reflects on the emotional, relational, and practical challenges men face, and how finding support, taking control, and protecting relationships can transform the experience.
In this episode, Ciaran reveals:
• The Road Ahead is Rough: Fertility treatment is one of life’s hardest challenges, but you are not alone. Support exists, and seeking it makes the journey lighter.
• You Have More Control Than You Think: Small, manageable steps like diet changes or routines give back a sense of control.
• Relationships Will Be Affected: Honest conversations and intentional time together can protect and even strengthen your bond.
• Other People’s Reactions Aren’t About You: Hurtful comments reflect others’ lack of lived experience, not your worth.
If you’re struggling, Ciaran’s advice is clear: acknowledge the challenges, take control where you can, and lean into community.
Sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by Impryl® - Fertility Family. Impryl® is a unique supplement for conception recommended by fertility specialists for both men and women. Visit FertilityFamily.co.uk and use code MFpodcast10 for 10% off.
📧 Email: themalefertilitypodcast@gmail.com
📷 Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast
📖 Web: nexysfertility.com
Don’t forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
From Addiction to Acceptance with The Man Cave's Kevin Button
Season 4 · Episode 18
Wednesday, August 27, 2025 • Duration 45:41
In this powerful episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, hosts Shaun and Ciaran are joined by Kevin Button, one of the original voices in male fertility advocacy, known in the community as "The Man Cave."
Kevin's story begins 12-15 years ago with a devastating diagnosis of Sertoli Cell-Only Syndrome - a condition where sperm production is impossible. What followed was a descent into addiction, relationship breakdown, and homelessness as Kevin struggled to cope with zero support and nowhere to turn.
In this episode, Kevin reveals:
The Brutal Reality of Diagnosis: How receiving life-changing news with no follow-up support led to years of drinking and drug abuse to numb the pain.
Dating with Infertility: The unique challenge of starting new relationships whilst carrying the "dirty little secret" of being unable to have children naturally.
Rock Bottom and Recovery: How meeting his wife Nikki became the turning point that saved his life and gave him purpose.
The Decision to Stop: After two unsuccessful fertility treatments, Kevin and Nikki made the brave choice to end their journey and find happiness as a family of three with their dog Bear.
Becoming an Advocate: How Kevin transformed his pain into purpose by creating The Man Cave, becoming a voice for men who felt voiceless in the fertility space.
The Mental Health Crisis: Kevin's stark warning about suicidal ideation in the male fertility community and why support is literally a matter of life and death.
Finding Closure: His decision to seek a second opinion years later and how it provided the closure needed to fully move forward.
Kevin's message is clear: the months and years of suffering in silence are unnecessary. His advice to any man struggling is simple but profound - just talk to someone tomorrow.
The Male Bag | Failure and Feelings: How to Process and Whether Counselling Helps
Season 4 · Episode 17
Wednesday, August 20, 2025 • Duration 14:30
In this Male Bag episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, host Shaun answers listener questions about navigating the emotional and practical challenges of the fertility journey.
In this episode, Shaun addresses:
Counselling Services in Fertility Care: Shaun confirms that UK fertility clinics are required by the HFEA to offer counselling services before, during, and after treatment, including donor conception. He shares his personal reluctance to engage with counselling during his own journey and encourages listeners not to make the same mistake.
Feelings of Failure After Diagnosis: Shaun discusses why it's completely normal to feel like you've failed after receiving a fertility diagnosis. He explains how societal expectations of masculinity contribute to these feelings and emphasises that fertility issues are medical, not moral.
Small Steps to Processing Emotions: For those not ready to talk, Shaun suggests alternative approaches like listening to podcasts, journaling thoughts on a phone app, and connecting with others' stories. He stresses the importance of going at your own pace and finding what works for you personally.
Shaun emphasises that while the podcast offers guidance and support, it's not a replacement for professional medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to submit their own questions via email or Instagram.
Sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by Impryl® - Fertility Family. Impryl® is a unique supplement for conception recommended by fertility specialists for both men and women. Visit FertilityFamily.co.uk and use code MFpodcast10 for 10% off.
Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
Broken to Unbreakable: How One Man's Accident Transformed Another's Fertility Journey with Ben Tansley
Season 4 · Episode 16
Wednesday, August 13, 2025 • Duration 41:30
In this powerful episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, hosts Shaun and Ciaran are joined by Ben Tansley, whose story of acceptance and resilience transformed Shaun's own fertility journey and inspired him to speak openly about male infertility.
In this episode, Ben reveals:
The Moment Everything Changed: In 2017, Ben went from being a confident young father and successful businessman to being told he would never walk again after a devastating motorcycle accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down.
The Power of Immediate Acceptance: Rather than dwelling on what he'd lost, Ben's first concerns were for his son's safety and the wellbeing of the person who caused the accident, demonstrating an extraordinary capacity for acceptance and forgiveness.
Redefining Strength and Identity: Ben shares how he had to completely reinvent himself, moving from physical strength to finding power through positivity and influence, proving that true strength comes from within.
The Ripple Effect of Sharing Your Story: Ben's openness about his journey unknowingly inspired Shaun to break his own three-and-a-half-year silence about infertility, demonstrating how one person's courage can transform another's life.
Finding Meaning in Everything: Ben's philosophy that "everything happens for a reason" and his ability to see life as an interconnected web where every experience serves a purpose, even when that purpose isn't immediately clear.
Ben emphasises that whilst life constantly tries to beat us down, the key to happiness is learning to adjust and pivot. His message is clear: there is always life after life-changing events, and acceptance is the first step toward reclaiming your power.
This episode proves that inspiration can come from the most unexpected places and that sharing our struggles, regardless of their nature, can create profound change in others.
Episode Sponsors:
ExSeed Health - At-home sperm testing using your phone's camera. Code: MFP15 (15% off) at exceedhealth.com
The Male Bag | Time Pressures, Relationship Changes and what I wished I knew!
Season 4 · Episode 15
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 • Duration 23:49
In this Male Bag episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, host Ciaran answers listener questions about navigating the emotional and practical challenges of the fertility journey.
In this episode, Ciaran addresses:
Time Pressures: Ciaran discusses how male fertility does decline with age (particularly after 40), but at a much slower rate than female fertility. He emphasises the importance of acknowledging time-related pressures and being proactive with lifestyle changes to control what you can.
Relationship Changes: Drawing from his own experience, Ciaran explains how fertility challenges affected his relationship with his wife, causing them to drift apart initially. He shares how open communication ultimately strengthened their bond and offers advice for maintaining connection during difficult times.
Feeling Overlooked by Healthcare: Ciaran candidly discusses how men are often overlooked in fertility treatment, sharing his experience of being referred to as "and partner" in clinic communications despite male factor being the primary issue. He emphasises the importance of self-advocacy and the need for systematic change.
Things He Wishes He'd Known: Ciaran reflects on what he would have done differently, including seeking help sooner, being more proactive about testing, and understanding that fertility treatment is a marathon, not a sprint.
Ciaran emphasises that while the podcast offers guidance and support, it's not a replacement for professional medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to submit their own questions via email or Instagram.
Sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by Impryl® - Fertility Family. Impryl® is a unique supplement for conception recommended by fertility specialists for both men and women. Visit FertilityFamily.co.uk and use code MFpodcast10 for 10% off.
Understanding Testosterone with Dr Jonathan Andrews
Season 4 · Episode 14
Wednesday, July 30, 2025 • Duration 01:00:38
In this comprehensive episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, hosts Ciaran and Shaun speak with Dr Jonathan Andrews about testosterone - the hormone that affects everything from fertility and muscle mass to mental health and motivation.
In this episode, Johnny reveals:
What Testosterone Actually Does: Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone responsible for the development and maintenance of all male characteristics - from muscle mass and bone density to libido and mood regulation. It's literally the hormone that transforms boys into men during puberty and maintains those characteristics throughout life.
The Age Factor: From mid-thirties to forties, testosterone levels typically decline by 1-2% per year. Unlike the dramatic "cliff drop" of female menopause, male testosterone decline is gradual - so subtle you might not notice until symptoms become significant.
Why Young Men Can Have Low Testosterone: Age isn't the only factor. Younger men are increasingly presenting with low testosterone due to lifestyle factors, obesity, stress, poor sleep, environmental factors, and medical conditions. Don't assume you're "too young" to have low testosterone.
The Symptoms You Might Miss: Brain fog, fatigue, loss of morning erections, decreased libido, difficulty building muscle, increased body fat, mood changes, and reduced motivation can all be signs of low testosterone. Many men dismiss these as "just getting older" when they could be treatable.
Why Lifestyle Changes Sometimes Fail: Even when men adopt "testosterone-friendly" lifestyles - better diet, exercise, reduced alcohol - levels can sometimes drop further. This happens because weight loss can temporarily reduce free testosterone, and other factors like stress or illness can override lifestyle improvements.
The Diagnosis Process: Proper testosterone diagnosis requires two blood tests at least 4-6 weeks apart, taken in the early morning when levels are highest. Single tests aren't reliable due to natural fluctuations, stress, illness, and circadian rhythms.
The Male Bag | The Pressure to Talk, Masculinity, Fertility & Mental Health
Season 4 · Episode 13
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 • Duration 19:07
In this deeply personal episode of The Male Bag, Shaun tackles some of the most challenging questions men face during fertility struggles, from feeling pressured to talk to rebuilding masculine identity after diagnosis.
In this episode, Shaun reveals:
Permission to Stay Silent: It's perfectly acceptable not to want to discuss fertility struggles constantly. The key is communicating your need for space rather than shutting down completely, saying "I need time to process internally before I can express externally."
Masculinity Beyond Sperm Count: Fertility struggles can feel like an attack on masculinity, but Shaun emphasises that "masculinity is not defined by sperm count." He shares how asking his wife "who am I as a man?" helped him rebuild his identity from core character traits rather than reproductive ability.
Staying Hopeful Through Setbacks: Hope isn't about pretending everything is fine - it's about knowing you're doing all you can, even on difficult days. Shaun advocates for "taking a knee" when needed, allowing yourself bad days, and remembering how far you've come since the beginning.
The Reality of Mental Health: Shaun courageously shares that 40% of fertility patients experience suicidal thoughts, and opens up about his father's suicide a year ago, emphasising the critical importance of male mental health support and community.
Building Community: From NeXYs support groups to in-person events, Shaun highlights how connecting with other men experiencing similar struggles can provide the community and understanding that might make all the difference.
If you're struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out:
Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7)
CALM: 0800 58 58 58
NHS: 111 (UK)
Have questions or experiences about your fertility journey?
Olly Brown on Miscarriage, the Male Default Mode & Running Through Grief
Season 4 · Episode 12
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 • Duration 38:32
In this powerful episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, hosts Ciaran and Shaun speak with Olly Brown about his personal experience of miscarriage and his mission to break the silence surrounding pregnancy loss, particularly for men.
In this episode, Olly reveals:
The Hidden Reality of Miscarriage: After experiencing loss at 13 weeks, Olly discovered that miscarriage affects people everywhere but remains largely unspoken. Once people knew about his experience, countless others shared their own stories of loss.
The Male Perspective on Grief: Men often feel pressure to be "strong and pragmatic" during miscarriage, but Olly emphasises that healing only comes through talking about the experience and finding support.
The 12-Week Dilemma: The traditional advice to wait until 12 weeks before announcing pregnancy can create additional trauma when loss occurs after sharing the news, requiring difficult conversations with family and friends.
Hospital Support During Loss: Olly praises the medical care they received, noting that whilst support was primarily focused on his wife's physical needs, he felt included in the process and had access to grief counselling and funeral options.
Changing Perspectives on Pregnancy: The experience fundamentally shifted how Olly and Amy approached their subsequent pregnancy, telling close family and friends immediately to ensure support was available if needed.
Marathons for Miracles: Olly is organising an ambitious challenge where 39 people will run 39 marathons in 39 weeks across the UK to raise funds for Tommy's, the pregnancy and baby charity, and increase awareness of miscarriage and baby loss.
Olly emphasises that whilst men need to provide strength and support during miscarriage, they also need to acknowledge their own grief and seek help when needed. His advice to men experiencing loss is simple but powerful: find someone who will listen, because talking about it will always help.
Connect with Olly Brown:
Instagram: @marathonsformiracles
The Male Bag | Money Stress, Cannabis, Cycling & Male Fertility Myths
Season 4 · Episode 11
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 • Duration 24:44
Ciaran is co-host of The Male Fertility Podcast and a personal trainer with extensive experience in male fertility challenges. Having navigated his own fertility journey, including approximately £45,000 worth of NHS treatment and additional private costs, Ciaran brings both personal insight and professional expertise to help men understand the physical and emotional aspects of fertility struggles. His background in fitness and health allows him to provide practical advice on lifestyle factors that impact male fertility, while supporting men emotionally through his work with The Male Fertility Podcast and NeXYs Fertility, the world's first online community platform dedicated to supporting men during their own fertility challenges.
In this episode, Ciaran reveals:
Financial Reality Check: After roughly £45,000 worth of fertility treatment (mostly NHS-covered but still £5-6,000 out of pocket), Ciaran shares practical strategies including budgeting, researching cheaper medication suppliers, and using cinema cards for affordable date nights during financially tight periods.
Cannabis and Fertility Truth: Research shows marijuana reduces sperm concentration and motility whilst increasing abnormal sperm shape. The good news? There is evidence that these effects are reversible when you stop smoking, and GPs will support you without judgement.
Cycling Guidelines: Rather than complete avoidance, if cycling is a vital part of your life, Ciaran recommends limiting cycling to 30-45 minutes at moderate intensity (zone 2 training) twice weekly, using padded seats with ventilation, and wearing breathable shorts to reduce heat.
Male Age Factor: Unlike women, men don't face a fertility cliff, but evidences success rates do decline after 45. Living healthily - proper sleep, exercise, reduced alcohol, and stress management - can help maintain fertility longer.
Sperm Freezing Options: Men can freeze sperm through clinics or sperm banks via cryopreservation, providing insurance for future fertility needs or medical treatments.
: High cortisol reduces testosterone, directly impacting fertility. Ciaran emphasises communicating with employers, planning stress-reducing activities, and acknowledging stress as the first step to managing it.
The GP's Guide to Male Fertility: Training, Testing & Treatment with Dr Anand Patel
Season 4 · Episode 10
Wednesday, July 2, 2025 • Duration 52:30
In this episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, GP and male health expert Dr Anand Patel joins hosts Ciaran and Shaun to discuss the shocking gaps in medical education around male fertility and why the current system is failing men.
In this episode, Dr Patel reveals:
The Training Crisis: How GPs receive virtually no education about male fertility, with 80% admitting they don't feel confident interpreting semen analysis and 90% unable to properly examine for varicoceles - despite male factors being involved in 50% of fertility cases.
The Demographic Disaster: With sperm counts dropping 50% in 50 years and the UK having the lowest birth rate in Europe, we're facing a potential demographic crisis similar to Korea's sociological meltdown, yet fertility remains low on the government agenda.
Testing Beyond the Basics: Why the standard GP guidance of "do a semen analysis, if it's abnormal do another one" is woefully inadequate, and the importance of hormone testing, DNA fragmentation analysis, and proper specialist referrals.
The Lifestyle Revolution: Dr Patel's key message that lifestyle changes trump supplements every time - from reducing coffee and alcohol to proper sleep, exercise, and maintaining relationship health during the fertility journey.
The Masculinity Crisis: How the shame of male infertility can be as devastating as a cancer diagnosis, why men defer to their partners in appointments, and the critical need for male-focused fertility support and therapy.
Dr Patel emphasises that small tweaks can lead to significant improvements in fertility outcomes, but the medical profession needs urgent reform in education and guidelines. His work training the next generation of GPs aims to ensure every generation is better equipped to support men through fertility challenges.
Have questions or experiences about your fertility journey?
Have questions or experiences about your fertility journey? Share them with us! Email: themalefertilitypodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast Web: nexysfertility.com
Join Our Community: At NeXYs Fertility, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support for men navigating fertility challenges. We offer advice and guidance from leading fertility specialists, peer support, and tailored coaching programmes — all through a user-friendly platform. JOIN OUR COMMUNITY https://www.nexysfertility.com/community
Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Impryl - Fertility supplement with activated micronutrients. Code: MFpodcast10 (10% off) at fertility-family.co.uk
Have questions or experiences about your fertility journey? Share them with us! Email: themalefertilitypodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast Web: nexysfertility.com
Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
TRT vs Underground Alternatives: With growing awareness of testosterone's importance, some men seek treatment through unregulated channels. Johnny emphasises the importance of proper medical supervision, licensed medications, and comprehensive health monitoring.
The Mental Health Connection: Low testosterone can cause depression-like symptoms. Many men are prescribed antidepressants when the root cause might be hormonal. Addressing testosterone deficiency can be life-changing for mood, motivation, and overall mental health.
Johnny emphasises that testosterone affects virtually every aspect of male health and wellbeing. His advice is clear: if you're experiencing symptoms, don't assume it's just aging - get tested by qualified professionals who understand the complexity of hormone health.
Connect with Dr Jonathan Andrews:
@Ted's Health Website: tedshealth.com
Have questions or experiences about your fertility journey?
Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
📷 Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast
📖 Web: nexysfertility.com
Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
Stress Management
Ciaran explains that whilst these factors matter, the key is finding balance rather than perfection. Small, manageable changes in lifestyle and financial planning can make a significant difference without sacrificing mental health.
Have questions or experiences about your fertility journey?
Share them with us!
Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
📷 Instagram:
@themalefertilitypodcast
📖 Web: nexysfertility.com
Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.
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