The Tres Amigos Podcast

Lean On Me

In this heartfelt episode, we welcome Jane, a remarkable woman sharing her unique journey through life's challenges.  Jane, a devoted wife and mother, opens up about her husband's battle with a series of health issues that began two decades ago, reshaping their lives in unexpected ways.
Jane candidly discusses the emotional and mental toll of caring for her husband, reflecting on the strength and resilience required to navigate such a journey. She shares the importance of support networks, from friends and family to the camaraderie of her husband's Tuesday night gatherings, highlighting the critical role these play in maintaining mental well-being.
The episode delves into the challenges faced by caregivers, exploring themes of love, loss, and adaptation. It also touches on the importance of living in the moment and finding joy in the present, despite an uncertain future. With humour and sincerity, Jane's story offers a poignant reminder of the power of community and the human spirit's resilience.

Tapas: Manicures

It's our first bitesize episode for the weekend... Tres Amigos Tapas.
 
Stu is standing in for Matt this week, and brings along his friend Jane.
Our hosts reflect on how the pandemic has influenced their daily routines, from avoiding exposed food in cafes to reconsidering the use of hand dryers in public restrooms.
They also touch on the social dynamics of personal space and the challenges faced by individuals of different sizes in public transport settings. Plus Stu discusses his new hand care regime, and Andy describes his experiences at massage parlours.

The Halloween Special

In this special Halloween episode, our three hosts gather around the table and share their candid thoughts on the holiday. Despite their shared disdain for Halloween, they dive into talking about the pressure to spend, and the peculiar traditions associated with the spooky season.
Join them as they explore the origins of Halloween, share personal anecdotes, and debate whether the holiday should be celebrated differently. They also touch on the unexpected etiquette surrounding trick-or-treating and the quirky customs linked to this time of year.
This week, listeners are treated to a mix of humour, scepticism, and a creepy story set in the mysterious Flannan Isles. Whether you're a Halloween enthusiast or a sceptic, this episode promises a blend of wit, insight, and a touch of the eerie to spice up your Halloween season.

Tapas: Distractions

It's our first bitesize episode for the weekend... Tres Amigos Tapas.
This discussion highlights how individuals prioritize concerns that directly impact them. The episode also touches on the benefits of routine and physical activity, with one host advocating for the mental health benefits of exercise, while the other remains skeptical about its impact beyond physical fitness.
Finally, the hosts contemplate engaging in new activities, such as a walking football tournament, as a way to break their daily routines and embrace new challenges. 

Judge, Jury and Prawn Lasagne

In this lively episode, the hosts dive into a rich narrative about Ash's cherished trips to a secret spot in Spain. For 27 years, this place has been a home away from home, complete with stunning views and memorable interactions with the hotel staff. Listen in as he shares stories of friendship, cultural exchanges, and his unique culinary adventures, including the creation of his signature prawn lasagna.
The episode takes a thoughtful turn as memories of loved ones intertwine with the serene Spanish setting, offering a poignant reflection on the power of tradition and place in keeping cherished memories alive.
Switching gears, Andy shares his recent experience with jury duty, highlighting the inefficiencies and frustrations within the legal system. This eye-opening account raises questions about the cost and effectiveness of the current judicial process.
To wrap things up, the hosts introduce a new interactive feature, inviting listeners to leave voice notes with their thoughts and questions. They also hint at a lighthearted Halloween special, promising a unique twist on the season's festivities.
Leave us a WhatsApp voicenote on 07376 620 657
 
Ash's Prawn Lasagne
Ingredients
For the prawn ragù:
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 white onion, finely chopped
5 garlic cloves, crushed
200 grams sweet, extra ripe cherry tomatoes, such as Datterini, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
500 grams raw, shell-on king prawns, very finely chopped (about 1 kilogram if you’re starting with shell-on prawns—use the shells to make a stock)
1 dried habanero chile
80 grams tomato purée or paste
2 teaspoons white miso paste
2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
100 grams dry white wine
500 grams fish, shellfish, or chicken stock (unsalted liquid stock, not cubes)
For the habanero oil:
120 grams extra-virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons tomato purée or paste
1/2 teaspoon chipotle chile flakes
Dried habanero chilies, to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground sweet paprika
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
For assembly:
250 grams fresh lasagna pasta sheets
130 grams double cream, plus 1 tablespoon to serve
100 grams parmesan cheese, finely grated
10 grams fresh chives, finely chopped
 
Directions
Make the ragù: Put 4 tablespoons of the oil into a large sauté pan on a medium heat with the onion, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and fine salt. Fry, stirring often, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the onions are soft and golden and the tomatoes have broken down.
Increase the heat to high, add the chopped prawns and fry for another 8 minutes, stirring every now and then, until the prawn mince has taken on some color.
Add the habanero, tomato purée/paste, miso, and pepper. Continue to fry for 3 minutes, stirring every now and then. Turn the heat down if the mixture starts to catch or burn.
Pour over the wine and let it bubble away for 30 seconds. Add the stock (or water) and the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer gently for about 18 to 20 minutes. Remove the habanero, squeezing it into the sauce first if you like heat.
Meanwhile, put all the ingredients for the habanero oil into a small saucepan and place on a medium heat. Mix well and heat until gently bubbling, about 1½ minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside. Once cool, transfer to a clean jar (you’ll only need a couple of tablespoons for this recipe).
Heat the oven to 395°F/200°C.
To assemble the lasagna, cover the bottom of a small baking dish (about 8x8-inch square, or 20x20-centimeter) with the pasta sheets, then spread over ⅕ of the ragù. Follow with ⅕ each of the cream, Parmesan and chives. Continue layering in the same way until you’ve used up all the ingredients.
Drizzle over ½ tablespoon of the habanero oil, cover tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Increase the oven heat to 485°F/250°C, remove the foil and bake for another 12 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and the pasta is cooked through.
Leave to cool for 10 minutes. Finish with the remaining 1 tablespoon of cream and a good drizzle of the habanero oil, and serve.

2 Australian Beekepers

In this episode, our hosts delve into a lively discussion about heritage, starting with a humorous debate over Italian ancestry. The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as they explore the importance of mental health and the value of community support.
Stu shares his personal story about maintaining wellness through social interactions at a local club, emphasizing the significance of open dialogue among men. The discussion highlights the challenges of working in high-stress environments and the crucial role of finding safe spaces to offload emotions.
Additionally, the episode touches on the sensitive topic of suicide prevention, stressing the importance of recognizing signs and having open conversations about mental health. The hosts also discuss the benefits of volunteering and giving back to the community as a means of personal fulfillment and emotional well-being.
Tune in for a mix of humour, personal anecdotes, and valuable insights into maintaining mental health and fostering supportive relationships.

It Takes Balls to Talk

This week, we welcome a very special guest in Alex Cotton MBE, a mental health nurse and the founder of It Takes Balls to Talk, a campaign which uses sporting themes to encourage people, particularly men, to talk about how they feel.
We dive into the unintended yet natural focus on mental health that has evolved in our discussions. We explore the importance of talking about our feelings and the support networks that can make a difference. Andy shares his journey of dealing with alcohol and mental health, while Matthew discusses his unique approach to staying well and the importance of activity in his life.
Alex introduces her concept of emotional fitness plans and emphasizes the significance of prevention and support networks in mental health. We also touch on various ways to engage men in conversations about their well-being, from sports clubs to community groups. Join us for an insightful and meaningful discussion that aims to break the stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations.
 
https://ittakesballstotalk.com
http://www.samaritans.org/
https://www.spuk.org.uk
https://sossilenceofsuicide.org
https://www.thecalmzone.net/
 

One Small Step For Man

Join Andy, Matt and Ash as they gather in the kitchen and have a chat about the latest news that no one cares about - the first ever privately funded spacewalk. Why is this newsworthy? Is it because it's a billionaire doing it or because it's privately funded? Our hosts dive into this topic with a mix of humour and scepticism.
From discussions about the advancements in space suit technology to a detour about deep-fried pizzas in Scotland, this episode is a rollercoaster of opinions and laughs. 
In the latter half of the episode, Andy opens up about the steps he's taking to improve his well-being.
Tune in for a mix of current events, personal stories, and a healthy dose of humour in this week's episode of "The Podcast Nobody Asked For."

Breaking Bad

In this episode, the hosts delve into the complex topic of addiction, sharing personal experiences and insights. They discuss the impact of social media, the importance of mindfulness, and the challenges of overcoming alcohol dependence.
One host opens up about his struggle with alcohol and the role mindfulness played in his journey towards self-improvement. The conversation also touches on the importance of living in the moment and finding balance in a world full of distractions.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own habits and consider the benefits of mindfulness in their daily lives. For those seeking help, useful links are provided in the description.
 
https://www.talktofrank.com
https://www.wearewithyou.org.uk
https://smartrecovery.org.uk

A Cliffside Proposal

In this episode, we dive into Matt's romantic adventure in Devon, where he popped the question amidst breathtaking coastal views. Join us as Matt shares the details of his cliffside proposal, the emotional journey, and the unforgettable moments that followed. We also discuss the dynamics of podcasting with friends and the impact of sharing personal stories with an audience. Plus, get ready for some light-hearted banter about wedding plans, family traditions, and the quirky joys of planning a special day. Tune in for a mix of heartfelt storytelling, humorous insights, and a glimpse into the lives of three amigos navigating life's big moments together.