Pete Wicks Returns with Man Made Podcast Series 2

Pete Wicks, the charismatic reality TV star turned mental health advocate, has made a triumphant return to the podcasting world. On February 11, 2026, he launched the second series of his hit show, Man Made, kicking things off with none other than Stephen Manderson, better known as Professor Green. This episode sets a powerful tone for what's to come, blending raw vulnerability with insightful dialogue on topics that resonate deeply in today's society.

Background on Pete Wicks and the Man Made Podcast

Pete Wicks first rose to fame on ITV's The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), where his larger-than-life persona and unfiltered honesty captivated audiences. But beyond the Essex glamour, Wicks has carved out a meaningful niche as a podcaster focused on men's emotional lives. Launched in 2025, Man Made quickly gained traction for its no-holds-barred approach to masculinity, mental health, and personal growth. The podcast challenges traditional stereotypes, encouraging men to open up about their struggles in a safe, relatable space.

The first series was a breakout success, featuring guests from entertainment, sports, and activism who shared stories of resilience and self-discovery. Now, with series two, Wicks is doubling down on authenticity. 'I wanted to create a platform where guys like me can talk without the filters,' Wicks shared in a pre-launch interview. This evolution aligns with a broader UK trend: podcast listenership on mental health topics surged by 40% in 2025, according to recent BBC data, as more celebrities leverage their influence for positive change.

Spotlight on the Premiere Guest: Professor Green

Stephen Manderson, aka Professor Green, is no stranger to the spotlight. The British rapper burst onto the scene with hits like 'Read All About It' and has since become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. His appearance on Man Made marks a pivotal moment, as the duo delves into Manderson's life with unflinching candor.

Manderson opens up about his turbulent upbringing and the lingering fear of abandonment that has shaped his worldview. 'I think I still carry those feelings. I just wanna feel safe. I don’t feel safe in my own body. I don’t feel safe in my own head. I don’t feel safe in my own home,' he confesses. This raw admission highlights the invisible scars many carry, underscoring how early experiences can echo into adulthood.

Navigating Neurodivergence and Public Perception

A standout segment focuses on Manderson's recent autism diagnosis. As a high-profile figure known for his charisma on stage and screen, he grapples with the stigma attached to neurodivergence. 'I’ve been diagnosed as autistic. That’s difficult. People are gonna go, you are clearly not autistic because of how I can show up. That’s exhausting. But that’s been learned,' Manderson explains. His words shed light on the 'masking' many autistic individuals employ to navigate neurotypical worlds—a exhausting performance that often goes unseen.

The conversation extends to education, where Manderson reflects on his academic potential clashing with formal systems. Despite being 'academically bright,' he faced barriers in completing qualifications, a common hurdle for neurodivergent people. This discussion is particularly timely in the UK, where awareness of ADHD and autism in adults is rising, with NHS referrals up 25% in the past year.

Fatherhood as a Catalyst for Change

Parenthood emerges as a transformative theme. Manderson admits the initial terror of fatherhood: 'I didn’t know I could do it. I had no experience with kids… So, to find my way to it now it’s, yeah, it was scary.' He describes how raising his son has sharpened his sense of responsibility, influencing his relationships and fostering greater self-awareness. For Wicks, who has spoken about his own family dynamics, this resonates deeply, creating a bridge of shared experience.

Pete Wicks' Personal Revelations

Wicks doesn't hold back either, sharing a harrowing childhood memory that has profoundly impacted his life. At age 11, he discovered his mother after a suicide attempt—a trauma that fuels his fear of abandonment and commitment issues. 'One of my biggest fears is that my mum tried to take her own life when I was 11 and I found her… I never want to leave people because I’ve felt it,' he reveals. This vulnerability humanizes Wicks, transforming him from TOWIE heartthrob to relatable everyman.

These disclosures aren't just anecdotal; they illustrate how personal pain can drive empathy. In an era where male suicide rates in the UK remain alarmingly high—four times that of women, per Samaritans—podcasts like Man Made play a crucial role in destigmatizing help-seeking. Wicks' approach encourages listeners to confront their emotions, potentially saving lives through normalized conversation.

The Broader Impact and Future of Man Made

Man Made isn't just entertainment; it's a cultural touchstone. By featuring diverse voices like Manderson's, the podcast amplifies underrepresented narratives in mental health discourse. Upcoming episodes promise more high-caliber guests, teasing explorations of identity, relationships, and societal pressures on men. Wicks hints at collaborations with therapists and activists to deepen the series' educational value.

In the competitive podcast landscape, where UK listens hit 1.5 billion in 2025 (per Rajar), Man Made stands out for its emotional depth. It's available on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for video versions, making it accessible to a wide audience. As Wicks notes, 'This is about real change, not just talk.'

The launch coincides with growing momentum in celebrity-led wellness initiatives. From Russell Brand's spiritual deep dives to Stormzy's youth mental health funds, stars are increasingly using their platforms for good. Wicks' contribution adds a distinctly masculine lens, challenging the 'stiff upper lip' ethos still prevalent in British culture.

Why This Matters Now

In a post-pandemic world, where isolation and anxiety affect one in four Brits (Mind charity stats), Man Made arrives as a beacon. It fosters community among listeners grappling with similar issues, proving that vulnerability is strength. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Wicks' world, this series offers profound insights wrapped in engaging storytelling.

As series two unfolds, expect it to spark wider conversations. For now, tune in to the premiere episode—it's a masterclass in empathy that reminds us: true manhood lies in openness, not armor.