What motivates maternal and child nutrition peer educators? Experiences of fathers and grandmothers in western Kenya

•Father and grandmother nutrition peer educators were motivated by multilevel factors.•Motivators included personal changes, improved relationships, and group recognition.•Clear expectations, peer support, and supportive supervision also motivated them.•Fathers were motivated by increased respect; grandmothers by helping group members.•Tailored peer-led interventions can enhance motivation, performance, and retention.