Diary Of A Big Lad
When it comes to self-improvement, Chade O’Brien has seen and tried it all. From fad diets and personal trainers to chasing mystical fitness unicorns. However, after more ups-and-downs in the gym than Arnie’s dumbbells, 2022 saw Chade logging what genuinely worked and sharing his success on social media. This evolved into the 'Diary Of A Big Lad Podcast' – an ordinary 'big lad's guide to fitness, sharing nuggets of wisdom from his journey.Join the North's sweatiest man (and his wobbly wingman, Nico) as they tackle a new fitness topic each week, sifting through the myths to discover what truly gets r...
How Do I Plan My Next Goal? AKA 'Sublime 23 - Pt. 4'
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The final episode of this mini-series-inside-the-bigger-series where Chaders discusses the results of his personal best beating attempt a week later! Chade goes into what he'll prepare for next time, what he'll change from the first time, and most importantly, what his next big challenge will be!
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact us at diaryofabiglad@gmail.com
For more 'Diary...
How Does It Feel To Face My Goal? AKA 'Sublime 23 - Pt. 3'
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This is it!! If you've been following The Big Lad on socials or heard the last 2 episodes of this limited run of Diary Of A Big Lad you'll know that Chade's been preparing to take on his biggest challenge yet!*, beating his 5k Running Record (23 minutes).
This episode plays out live through voice notes of Nico's journey up to witness it and keep track, to Nico's (unintentionally very Alan Partridge-esque) commentary, to a long chat with Chade himself about how the run went, how he felt the build-up...
How Do I Overcome Setbacks When Trying To Beat Personal Best? AKA 'Sublime 23 - Pt. 2'
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Challenges! Pitfalls!! Setbacks!!! Stomach bugs!
This week, in the second of the 4-part Diary Of A Big Lad mini-series-inside-the-main-series, Chade O'Brien takes us through some of the things that have set him back in the build up to beating his 5k run personal best time (23mins).
There's positivity too though, in words of encouragement from a previous guest and pod favourite (we'll give you a clue, it's one of Chade's biggest fans).
Next week it's the big run itself, so follow Chaders on all...
How Do I Beat My Personal Best At Running A 5k? AKA 'Sublime 23'
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Welcome back!
In part 1 of our special 4 part series of Diary Of A Big Lad, Chade takes us through his new project ‘Sublime 23’, aiming to beat his personal best on a 5k run.
Chade’s given himself 11 weeks to shave the time off and here he goes through the changes he's making since setting his previous record, and what tech/clothing he’s used to give himself the edge.
Hopefully it’ll help you achieve the same, and if you’re not yet interested in running for...
Tom Barkham Interview
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In this very special Bonus Episode, Chade speaks to the great Tom Barkham!
A man of many talents, Tom has boxed, completed many a Swindon Santa Run (worth Googling!), competed in everything from darts, to food challenges, to boxing and can be frequently seen up and down the country around the UK MC’ng various boxing events!! Here today, he’s on possibly his most important quest yet, with his official attempt at breaking the Guiness World Record for scoring The Most Points Accumulated Over 12 Hour...
The Good One Hundredth Episode
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In this, the 100th Episode, Chade and Nico discuss what's gone well...and not so well over the last 100 episodes, their favourite bits, and what the future holds for 'Diary Of A Big Lad'!
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact us at diaryofabiglad@gmail.com
For more 'Diary Of A Big Lad' Content on Instagram, follow us at https://www.in...
Doing Is Believing
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A lovely little 3 parter where Chaders discusses the feeling we all get of deciding to have that get up and go, vs stay comfy and no-show! All done live throughout his evening!
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact us at diaryofabiglad@gmail.com
For more 'Diary Of A Big Lad' Content on Instagram, follow us at https://www.instagram.com/di...
The Big New Year Plan - Damp January
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DAMP JANUARY!
Chade reveals his big plans for the new year (mainly…DAMP JANUARY!), we chat about the best kind of Christmas presents (namely Chades wedding ring which may or may not be made of Vibranium).
We hear how Chade's planning to approach the new year, and it might just inspire you to do the same. It's not just 'Damp January' either, if you're wondering....
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written...
A D.o.a.B.L New Year Workout
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Chade battles through a solo ep with the flu!
What better way to start the year than with Chade talking YOU through his morning routine!
There’s been much talk of Chade’s infamous morning routine, so this week, he thought it might be helpful to take you through each move while he does them!
Of course, be safe, Chade’s not a personal training expert, but these are moves taught to him by people who are. This is designed as a guide to what Ch...
Diary Entry - New Year 2024 (going into 2025...)
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In this, the final episode and diary entry of the year. Chade talks about meeting his goal (sort of), his first Christmas as a father of two and then takes a look back at the last year. Chade's come a long way since Christmas last year, 2024 has brought some firsts, and Chade reveals what he’s excited about going into the new year.
Chade mentions a previous episode that's helped him out this year, and that he thinks might help you, please find the link below:
Th...
Christmas 2024 - Chade O'Brien in 'Die(t) Hard'
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Chaders and Nico bring you an extra large Christmas-Dinner-sized helping of the pod with this years very special Christmas Episode!!
Firstly Chade introduces a new acronym that’s helped him achieve his goal (and will hopefully help you!). They struggle with maths, discuss at the ins and out of the best Christmassy foods that’ll be filling our shops, tables, and tums!!
WARNING!! There is ALOT of food chat!
Chade talks about some healthy alternatives to classic Christmas foods and Nico relays his idea for a...
Diary Entry - 12 Days Of Big Lad
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Chade discusses how his self-imposed weight loss challenge is going (not too well) and what he’s doing to right it now he’s lost one of his greatest tools, his gym!
Chade's doing 12 days of fitness challenges to help get him through the Christmas season, so go check out his daily videos on Instagram at
https://www.instagram.com/diaryofabiglad?igsh=d29wMWZ1aHVzNDIz
if you fancy joining in. Or just watching him do them while you scroll.
P.S. Also, we kn...
Big Lad (Chade) vs Big Man (Santa)
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Still struggling with his plan to lose some serious poundage before the big 25th, Chade and Nico discuss a game plan that Chade (and you, dear listener!) can empty at this late stage to keep things going in the right direction.
Late for Halloween, Chade also discusses the terrifying idea of clothes made of calories that the body eats while you wear them. Yikes!
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay...
Diary Entry - Losing My Gymnasium
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At the worst possible time (the build up to Christmas), Chade finds himself without a gym! What can he do about it? How will he handle his lose-weight-before-Christmas challenge without the heavy hitting exercise that comes with regular gym visits? Have a listen to find out!
He's also not learned to put his phone on silent during recording, apologies...
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For que...
Using S.M.A.R.T Goals To Reimagine Existing Goals
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This week, Chade assesses his personal challenge (getting to 16 stone, or 224 pounds if you prefer), in 5 weeks and how he used SMART goal setting to calculate if it was actually doable (or in this case, DoaBL). If he fails, he gets no Christmas Dinner. This dear listener, is not to be taken lightly (although Chade will be, if he achieves his goal).
A great listen for anyone who might was to set a similar goal and wants a breakdown of a good pace to do it.
...
Progress Part 9: Making Progress Amidst A Challenge
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In the 90th episode, Chade takes us through the last 9 weeks, including the build up to his son being born, his thoughts after his son being born, and the progress made regarding their personal challenges (Spoiler alert!! It's not looking good for Chaders and Nico's done nada.)
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact us at diaryofabiglad@gmail.com
For more...
Perseverance
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Things aren't looking good for Chade getting a Christmas Dinner! Chade explains how he plans on combatting not being able to achieve his goal and how it might apply to yours.
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact us at diaryofabiglad@gmail.com
For more 'Diary Of A Big Lad' Content on Instagram, follow us at https://www.instagram.com/diaryo...
Diary Entry - Guide To Starting A Podcast
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It's the first (and most likely only) solo episode featuring Nico on his own! Last week we had an update on how Chade's Challenge is coming along, this week, we'll hear how Nico's is!
As you may remember, Nico's Challenge was to write, record and fully produce the first episode of a brand new podcast. Nico thought he'd take this opportunity to go over some of the mistakes he's made in the past when producing podcasts so he doesn't make them again, and hopefully give you some pointers...
Diary Entry - Progress On Chade's Challenge
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Chade gives us an update on how his challenge is going, he's fallen behind on some aspects, but perhaps it's not a bad thing...
For those of you who haven't been following, if Chade should fail this self imposed challenge, the forfeit is he will get no Christmas dinner. None. Not a sausage. Literally.
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact...
The Challenge Begins
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Last week the lads set themselves a challenge of achieving a personal goal by the 25th of December, the forfeit of failing said challenge being incredibly high stakes punishment of which they will go into detail of here.
From 4:40 there's a FULL 10 minutes of 'second-time dad' talk, so if that's your bag it's well worth a listen!
When they finally get down to talking about their challenges, they inevitably get on the subject of habits. The word habit is used about 560 times so if you want...
Big Lad's Big Challenge
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This week the lads throw down a challenge for themselves (which you can, and should join in on at home!) and Chade reviews the psychotic forfeit he's dreamt up to make sure they get it done!
Also this week, Chade mentions how much weight he plans to lose in the coming months. As always, safety is of high importance to us, so if you're wondering what he's basing his goal on, here's some info from our old pals in the NHS for you to peruse should you be...
Diary Entry - Back To Basics
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As Nico's off ill this week, Chade treats us to another diary entry. Following his recent life changes and the last episode's discussion about finding a new routine, Chade talks to us about going 'Back To Basics'. With his diet sliding into old habits, and his daily routine thrown off, Chade lets us know how he's keeping himself on track and the joys of going....you guessed it....'Back To Basics'.
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme...
Becoming a Dad...Again!
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This week, Chade takes us through his feelings about the first week of his son’s life and what changes it’ll make to his routines and the Podcast going forward. Chade then gives Nico a whistle stop education on what happens when a child is born, and tops it off with some nice, heartwarming advice for anyone who has a second child on the way. We think it's a great lesson for any soon-to-be second time parents out there who would like to hear how a fellow goal setter deal...
Diary Of A Big Dad Pt. 2
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The day is finally here! Chade is proud to announce the birth of a Little Lad, the newest addition to his family, his son!
Chade talks briefly about the excitement, challenges (mainly faced by his wife) and joyous relief of spending the last week in anticipation of his son being born. There's discussion of how things are different this time round from when his daughter was born, when he'll get back to the gym and most importantly...the new name is revealed.
Be warned, there are...
Diary Of A Big Dad Pt. 1
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Chade gives us 3 live diary entries in the build up to his son being born!! There's pacing, jitters, and an informative update of where the mind might go in times of pressure with regards to one's overall life goals. A fascinating slice of life (and a glimpse at the anticipation and excitement that takes place before an actual one begins...)
Another reminder we are in no way affiliated with or sponsored by McDonalds...but I do fancy one of those Philly Cheese Stacks I must say...
‘Di...
Progress Part 8: Ups And Downs Of A Big Lad
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The 8th Progress Ep! Chade looks back at the last 10 weeks and ponders the many ups and down of holidays, injuries, bouncing back, getting injured again, then attempting to bounce back. Chade also gives us a sneak peak at what's coming up and seems to have a new obsession with the numbers seven, eight and nine.
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contac...
Diary Entry - A Whole Lotta Goal
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In this Diary Entry, after another little speed bump (following last weeks upbeat episode), Chaders discusses how it's perhaps a byproduct of feeling over confident.
Among the many things discussed, Chade delves into how he wants to get to the gym but there's something missing, something stopping his usual enthusiasm that he can't quite put his finger on. Life events, good and bad, occasionally are throwing him off. There's also a bit of analysis of his own behaviour regarding his history of not only eating too much, but...
A Guide To Returning to Positivity - The Eye Of The Big Lad (careful...)
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This week, after last weeks more sombre tone, Chade talks about reassessing his daily routine while being in a more positive space (and making it all the better for it).
Chade also talks about the wonders of his Dad’s magic cream (steady) and how it’s helped him (literally) get back on his feet. What is it? (Cream) Where does it come from? (Ireland) It's all discussed here!
Also, taking a step back and reassessing goals are discussed, and how making a few slight changes has...
Diary Entry - Pain and No Gain
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In this short entry, Chade talks about reaching a low point in his quest, and ponders what went wrong.
We try to keep things as upbeat as possible at 'Diary Of A Big Lad', but authenticity has always been one of the most important things we wanted to give to our audiences when we set out making the pod, so we hope you appreciate this nugget of honesty.
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune w...
Dealing with Changes - The Times There Are A Chading
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The story continues from last week as Chade, dealing with the unexpected twist of a sore wrist (because of exercise, get your mind out of the gutter!), takes us through how he's dealing with the inevitable change in the routine and whether or not it'll set him back, or just down a slightly different path...
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact us at...
The Comeback Process: Desire, Drive, Do!
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Still in the throws (left handed throws, obviously), of his recent wrist injury, Chade explains how he's dealing with recovering, as well as his busy home schedule.
The boys try and keep innuendos to a minimum before Chade discusses the process of setting goals via the three steps of Desire, Drive and Do!
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact...
The Compounding Effects Of Habits
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Chade rocks another solo ep where he talks about getting a handle on his routines and workout after having the boat rocked a little on holiday (not literally he went by plane). Taking a look at his habits and his handling of them, he dishes out what's worked for him and hopefully, how it can work for you too!
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and qu...
Summer Vacations: The Return Of The Big Lad...From Holiday
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Chade and Nico convene on a hot summer Sunday evening to chat about Chade’s even hotter Summer holiday in Cyprus! Chade talks about how he relaxed and enjoyed himself whilst also having one eye on his long term goals. What went well? What didn’t? Are the ‘Cyprus Sweets’ he’s discussing in fact Baclava? It’s all here.
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and quer...
The A - Z Of Protein
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After Nico gets the hump about last nights loss, Chade's left alone to talk about some of the protein-providing foods he loves. Working his way through the alphabet Chade lets us know which ones are his favourites, and gives you a nice long list to add to your daily intake! Some of his old faves turn up (broad beans, the old champions, m the eggs!) as well as new ones (Edamame!!!).
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme...
Summer Vacation Pre-Chat
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As Chade prepares for his summer holiday (or vacation to our American listener, that's right, we still see you!), the lads chat about some of their favourite food to grab abroad and what Chade can look out for in Cyprus.
In true DoaBL fashion, waffle ensues and they only cover about two countries, but a darn good waffle and two countries they chat about-none-less.
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay...
Progress Part 7: The Magnificent Seventh Progress Ep
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Chade breaks down his progress over the last 70 weeks (I know...70 and they're still going with this...baffling), the ups, the downs, the middles, the changes and the constants, it's all laid out for all to listen to!
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact us at diaryofabiglad@gmail.com
For more 'Diary Of A Big Lad' Content on Ins...
Habits: The Battle Of Chade's Thoughts
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Chade dives into how he creates good habits to help with his momentum when aiming to achieve his goals!
https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay Stevens.
For questions and queries please contact us at diaryofabiglad@gmail.com
For more 'Diary Of A Big Lad' Content on Instagram, follow us at https://www.instagram.com/diaryofabiglad?igsh=d29wMWZ1aHVzND
Momentum: The Momentum Of Truth
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This week it's all about GAINING MOMENTUM!! Chade talks about how positive, as well as negative momentum can be affecting your performance and how he keeps his on the positive side.Chade and Nico also talk about pretzels and far too much about Pringles. We are neither sponsored or affiliated with any pretzel manufacture or Kellanova, owner of Pringles (although a podcaster can dream....)
‘Diary Of A Big Lad’ is an Osborne Road Production featuring Chade O’Brien and Nico Diodoro. Theme tune written and performed by Jay...
Creating a 60 Day Plan - FULL
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Hello! Remember when Chade did a 3 part episode detailing how to put together a 60 Day Plan to achieve your goals? Well, so you don't have click and slide your way through 3 separate episodes, as promised, here's all three in one omnibus, like an educational Eastenders.
They're the same eps, but separated by a short jingle to give you time to pause, complete the tasks, then move onto the next section with the greatest of ease. It's easier than 1, 2, 3. It's literally just as easy as.....1.
‘Diary Of A...
TDEE! Total Daily Energy Expenditure
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Chade explains what on Earth TDEE is and breaks down how to calculate YOUR numbers. It’s a lot more technical than our usual episodes so it might be worth having a pen and paper/notetaking device for this one!
If you've ever asked yourself 'How can I calculate my maintenance calories?', wondered how you calculate your specific calorie deficit, or simply want an episode explaining what a BMR calculator is, then this is definitely the one for you!
