Shows
School of Rock Bottom"COKE SLOWLY TOOK EVERYTHING!" Cocaine Recovery. School of Rock Bottom 75: Ryan PhillipsRyan Phillips shares his recovery from cocaine addiction with over 65,000 followers on TikTok. In this conversation, he describes the moment his cocaine use finally collapsed under the weight of truth. After days awake on coke, surrounded by smashed glass and blood, Ryan was found by his sister while his young niece waited outside. Hearing that his niece had become frightened of him became the wake-up call that ended the secrecy and forced honesty to begin. We talk openly about addiction, cocaine recovery, relapse, accountability and what happens when denial finally breaks.Ryan is a recovery and wellness...
2025-12-291h 00School of Rock BottomThe Number 1 Cause of Relapse! Thought #31: Oliver MasonStaying sober through the festive season can feel like walking a tightrope with no safety net, especially when the mind starts whispering those familiar lies that have dragged so many people back to day one. In this next quick thought, I revisit an old episode and the most dangerous relapse lie “just one won’t hurt". If you’re trying to stay clean and sober one day at a time, this short episode will hit exactly where you need it.Addiction crafts believable lies, how denial disguises itself as control, and why comparing your drinking or using to som...
2025-12-2205 minSchool of Rock BottomAlcohol Turned Me Into a Nightmare! Addiction, ADHD & Recovery. School of Rock Bottom 74: Serena PalmerToday's conversation with Serena Palmer goes straight to the heart of addiction, ADHD, success and collapse, and the hidden world of high-achieving professionals who are fighting battles no one can see. If you’ve ever wondered how someone can lead global teams, excel in a corporate role, appear entirely in control, and still be unravelling behind the scenes, this episode will speak to you. We explore late ADHD diagnosis, the link between neurodiversity and alcohol misuse. Behind the titles, she was privately battling a late ADHD diagnosis, escalating drinking, and cycles of alcoholic psychosis. Today she’s 2 year...
2025-12-161h 00School of Rock BottomWhy Hair of The Dog Causes Alcohol Addiction! Thought #30: Rupert HillIn this next quick thought, I revisit a moment with Rupert Hill as we explore one of the most misunderstood drivers of alcohol dependence: the moment your brain learns that “hair of the dog” removes discomfort. It feels harmless, even cultural, but for many it is the point where drinking shifts from enjoyment to compulsion. In this clip, we break down how the cycle begins, why it escalates so quickly, and how a seemingly small decision can shape years of someone’s life. If you’ve ever questioned your relationship with alcohol, this conversation will give you clarity.We dis...
2025-12-0807 minSchool of Rock BottomWhat Is a Sex & Love Addict? Thought #29: Livvie MayWhat happens when love turns into obsession and connection becomes dependency? In this next quick thought, I revisit one of the most revealing moments from the podcast with Livvie May. This is an honest conversation about sex and love addiction, fear of abandonment, obsessive attachment, and the emotional patterns that quietly shape who we choose and why. If you have ever lost yourself in someone else or found yourself repeating the same relationships, this clip will feel uncomfortably familiar and deeply important.We explore how relationships turn into sex and love addiction, how obsession can...
2025-11-2411 minSchool of Rock Bottom"I couldn't get sober for my kids!" Addiction & Motherhood. School of Rock Bottom 72: KaitlinKaitlin never spoke about her addiction because she thought she would lose her kids. So, what happens when alcohol, coke and weed stop being fun and start taking over your life and threaten everything you hold most sacred and precious? What happens when addiction changes from keeping you safe to making you vulnerable to assault? We explore what life and motherhood really looks like in the haze of drink and drugs - not from a place of judgement but from lived experience. This is about the reality of addiction, the behaviour that comes with it, and the...
2025-11-1800 minSchool of Rock BottomWhy Going Sober Changed Everything! Thought #28: Issy HawkinsWhen you stop drinking, what do you really gain? In this next quick thought, I revisit my first conversation with Issy Hawkins about what happens when alcohol is no longer in control — and how sobriety isn’t just about quitting, but about finally getting to know yourself. Issy opens up about losing weekends to binge drinking, the shame spiral that followed, and the freedom that came with getting sober at just 21. We talk honestly about identity, self-awareness, and how sobriety gave her a deeper understanding of life, relationships, and purpose. You’ll hear how alcohol can rob you of time...
2025-11-1009 minSchool of Rock Bottom"My Binge Drinking Spiralled During Lockdown!" School of Rock Bottom 71: Henry BeercockFor anyone sober curious or identifies more as a binge drinker rather than an alcoholic - this episode is for you! Most people think rock bottom is dramatic — losing everything, waking up in a hospital, or worse. But what if it’s quieter? What if it’s your partner saying, “I can’t do this anymore”? This week, I’m joined by Henry Beercock, who spent 17 years stuck in a cycle of binge drinking, binge eating, smoking, vaping and unhealthy habits before one moment changed everything. In just two years, he’s lost seven stone, gone vegan, and built an inspiring alc...
2025-11-0456 minSchool of Rock BottomWill I Recover From OCD? School of Rock Bottom Thought #27: Oliver NewtonWhat if the thing that saves your life is something you’ve always hated?In this next quick thought, I revisit a conversation with Oliver Newton who opens up about years of living with crippling OCD — waking up paralysed by intrusive thoughts, trapped inside his mind, and feeling like life had become impossible. Then one morning, everything changed. A pair of old trainers, a desperate decision to run, and a five-minute moment of silence that saved his life.This conversation isn’t about miracle cures. It’s about finding your version of recovery — whether that’s running, t...
2025-10-2711 minSchool of Rock BottomCan You Have a Rock Bottom in Recovery? Addiction & ADHD. School of Rock Bottom 70: Issy HawkinsCan you have rock bottom moments when sober and IN recovery? Today, I sit down with actor and content creator Issy Hawkins, who has been sober for a decade, to talk about burnout, identity, and the side of recovery no one likes to admit. We explore what it’s really like being diagnosed as an adult with ADHD in sobriety, the truth behind the “addict voice,” and why even years into recovery, the mind can still turn against you. Issy first joined the podcast in episode 33, sharing her journey through alcoholism, rehab and how she got sober at 21...
2025-10-211h 03School of Rock BottomLoneliness & Love Addiction. School of Rock Bottom Thought #26: DarrenWhat if loneliness wasn’t just an emotion — but a symptom of something deeper? In this next quick thought, I revisit a conversation with Darren - a powerful and painfully honest moment about loneliness, love addiction, and why so many of us confuse validation with connection. This clip explores what it really means to feel lonely, even when surrounded by people, and how learning to sit with that feeling — instead of running from it — can become one of the most healing acts of self-awareness.We talk about the HALT method — hungry, angry, lonely, tired — and why recognising these emotio...
2025-10-1307 minSchool of Rock BottomFrom Zero Drugs to Crack Den! Drugs & Gambling Recovery. School of Rock Bottom 69: Charlotte JacksonWhat happens when a woman who never touched a drug until the age of 29 ends up addicted to crystal meth, gambling and living in a crack den? This is not the story you expect — but it’s the one you need to hear. Today, I sit down with Charlotte Jackson, a holistic coach and healer who has rebuilt her life after years of chaos, addiction, and near-death moments. Five years clean, she speaks with brutal honesty about loneliness, survival, and finding freedom on her own terms.Charlotte shares how her darkest moments wasn’t just about drugs or hom...
2025-10-071h 00School of Rock BottomCan You Get Through Anything Sober? School of Rock Bottom Thought #25: Tom Clarke-HillHow do you stay sober through unimaginable pain? In this next quick thought, I revisit my conversation with actor Tom Clarke-Hill who lived through the devastating loss of his wife after 28 years together — and still didn’t pick up a drink.This powerful clip isn’t just about recovery, it’s about what it really means to live one day at a time, to face pain without numbing it, and to discover strength you never knew you had. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can get through the darkest moments without alcohol or drugs, this episode is for you...
2025-09-2906 minSchool of Rock BottomHow I Survived Cocaine & Alcohol From Age 15. School of Rock Bottom 68: TihaneDo you really need to hit rock bottom to get clean and sober, or is that just a myth? Today’s guest is living proof that the story isn’t so simple. At 15 years old, Tihani was already using cocaine, experimenting with ADHD meds from the street, blacking out and carving tattoos into her own skin in drug-fuelled hazes. By her twenties she was on benders, remembering the days of the week by counting how many pills she'd taken since the weekend. Yet despite the chaos, she built a successful creative career, performing on global stages and working with bran...
2025-09-231h 01School of Rock BottomCan You Help Someone Who Is Suicidal? School of Rock Bottom Thought #24: Jon SalmonWhen someone you love is suicidal, what do you say?In this next quick thought, I revisit a conversation with Jon Salmon exploring the truth of reaching the edge — and the power of direct questions that can save a life. Suicide remains one of the hardest subjects to talk about, but silence can be deadly. Here, we uncover how asking the right question at the right time could change everything, and why conversation, therapy, self-awareness and daily check-ins are vital tools in recovery. This moment is about turning pain into understanding, and showing that hope exists even at ou...
2025-09-1508 minSchool of Rock BottomAddiction Made Me Lose My Mind. School of Rock Bottom 67: Taner HassanMy guest today is someone who brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to the conversation around addiction and recovery. Today I sit down with Taner Hassan, an actor, psychotherapist, and addiction specialist who is 18 years sober, to explore the darkest and most transformative moments of his life. Taner opens up about terrifying drug-induced psychosis, drinking and using cocaine and weed, and how substance use started as a teenager and spiralled into chaos. He shares what it was like to lose his mind - the fear and confusion of losing touch with reality, and how he eventually...
2025-09-0955 minSchool of Rock BottomWalking Away From Crack. School of Rock Bottom Thought #23: Jennifer JosephWhat does it really take to walk away from crack cocaine after 15 years? In this next quick thought, I go back to an incredible conversation with Jennifer Joseph - you’ll hear the truth of someone who not only used but was deeply embedded in that world—making it, distributing it, and living in constant danger. And yet, one life-changing choice set them free.WATCH OR LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW ON YouTube - https://tinyurl.com/5fnsdr7xSpotify - https://tinyurl.com/mw5btxfcApple - https://apple.co/3PajZ...
2025-09-0107 minSchool of Rock BottomLethal Mix: Work, Alcohol & Drug Addiction. School of Rock Bottom 66: Dorothy HersonWhat happens when success comes at the cost of your sanity? At 24, Dorothy Herson had achieved the dream: a training contract at one of London’s most elite law firms. But behind the polished exterior was an insecure overachiever battling bipolar disorder, addicted to validation, fuelled by long hours, and quietly self-medicating with Adderall, Xanax, and alcohol. That path led her to a psychiatric hospital and the question: how do you rebuild when everything you worked for collapses?This conversation is not just about addiction. It’s about the hidden cost of ambition, the culture of workaholism, and...
2025-08-2658 minSchool of Rock BottomBinge Drinking Nearly Cost Me Everything! School of Rock Bottom Thought #22: John PickardOne binge almost cost actor John Pickard everything — his relationship, his child, and his future.WATCH OR LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW ON Youtube - https://bit.ly/49LHNNOApple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQSpotify - https://bit.ly/42S8puBIn this next quick thought, we explore how a single night of heavy drinking and drug use became the turning point. What started as “just a night out” spiralled into a wake-up call that forced him to confront the dangerous patterns he thought he had...
2025-08-1807 minSchool of Rock BottomThe Truth About Alcoholism, The Mental Load & ADHD. School of Rock Bottom 65: Cat SimsCat thought she was just about managing. The undiagnosed ADHD, the mental load, the drinking. Cat wasn’t drinking in the mornings, she hadn’t lost her job or her kids, so how could she be an alcoholic? But the truth is, the mental gymnastics of planning every drink, hiding the chaos, and pretending to cope led to complete burnout. In this incredible conversation, Cat Sims sits down with me to share the stark truth behind the mask – the trauma, the shame, the moment everything collapsed, and the surprising reasons why she wouldn’t change any of it. Rock bottom i...
2025-08-121h 00School of Rock BottomWhy Thoughts Are Not Facts! School of Rock Bottom Thought #21: Georgia LockYour Thoughts Are Not The Truth – How To Stop Believing Every Intrusive ThoughtWATCH OR LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE - https://tinyurl.com/rudcwcuvSpotify - https://bit.ly/4bxJxMFApple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQWhat if the thoughts you fear the most… meant nothing at all? I revisit a conversation with actor Georgina Lock, as we uncover the truth about intrusive thoughts, OCD, and why learning to see your thoughts for what they are could change your life. If you’ve ever f...
2025-08-0405 minSchool of Rock BottomAlcohol Always Leads to Cocaine! School of Rock Bottom 64: Jack CotterillWhat happens when you hit your lowest point and realise you’re living a life that’s not your own?In this episode, I’m joined by Jack Cotterill — a jazz drummer, creative entrepreneur and performance coach — who once lived the wild rock star life, caught in addiction and self-sabotage, before flipping his story entirely. Jack quit alcohol and cocaine, lost over 10 stone, rebuilt his confidence, and now coaches creatives and entrepreneurs worldwide on how to ditch bad habits, find discipline and turn their creative energy into real success. His journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too...
2025-07-2956 minSchool of Rock BottomForgiving Myself After Binge Eating. School of Rock Bottom Thought #20: Danny KirraneBinge Eating, Shame & Self-Hate | Why We Use Food to Numb with actor Danny Kirrane. WATCH OR LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE - https://bit.ly/3RQ2RvsSpotify - https://bit.ly/3ROsEEhApple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQEmotional eating. Body shame. The guilt spiral. If you’ve ever binged on food, hated yourself after, and promised to “be good tomorrow,” this conversation will hit hard. We talk honestly about binge eating as a coping mechanism — how food becomes a way to numb, escape overthinking and silence...
2025-07-2107 minSchool of Rock BottomWhy I Went Sober at 18! School of Rock Bottom 63: Scarlett AliceWhat happens when you’re raised in chaos, start drinking heavily at 13 whilst navigating autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADD & PTSD, plus wanting to get sober before you’re legally allowed to drink then stopping at 18?! I sit down with actress, dancer and reiki healer Scarlett Alice, who opens up about growing up with two parents addicted to alcohol and drugs, the trauma that shaped her and the moment she chose sobriety at just 18. Then comes the flip - her parents enter recovery and give her the inspiration to join them on the path to joy and serenity! 12 years late...
2025-07-1550 minSchool of Rock BottomEscape Addiction & Fill The Void. School of Rock Bottom Thought #19: Malin Andersson“I want to fill my soul up, not my void up!”Former Love Island star, speaker, author and all-round amazing human Malin Andersson opens up about the darkest corners of her life — from losing a parent, surviving an abusive relationship, and losing her daughter — to discovering an inner strength that can’t be explained but is undeniably real. We talk about what happens when the distractions & addictions are stripped away, when you're left with the void you've been so desperately trying to fill with addiction and when the only way out is through fi...
2025-07-0708 minSchool of Rock BottomSurviving Silence: Healing from Childhood Trauma & Shame. School of Rock Bottom 62: Madeleine Black[TW: sexual violence & child sexual abuse – discussed from the start] I sit down with a survivor of sexual violence Madeleine Black, who shares her extraordinary journey — from the silence she held for years, to the shame that followed her through school and the deep impact it had on her sense of identity. She speaks openly about the PTSD she didn’t know she had, the physical toll it took on her body, and how trauma can remain locked in our cells long after the event.We explore how she began to heal — through therapy and confronting the memories...
2025-07-0153 minSchool of Rock BottomIs Relapse Part of Recovery? School of Rock Bottom Thought #18: Maddie KitchenIn this deeply personal thought, I revisit my conversation with Filmmaker Maddie Kitchen as we explore the reality of relapse in recovery — not as a failure, but as something many people experience on the path to long-term sobriety. My personal view is that relapse is part of addiction - not recovery, as it nearly killed me on many occasions. Relapse is not without severe risk and many people die so it's far from a recommendation. However, it was a huge part of my journey and this conversation highlights this perfectly. If it doesn't kill you - it can serve as...
2025-06-2304 minSchool of Rock Bottom"Connection is the opposite of addiction!" School of Rock Bottom 61: Jessica WildeSinger and spoken word artist Jessica Wilde opens up about her journey through addiction, heartbreak and early sobriety — and how connection, creativity and community helped her rebuild from the ground up.From a brief but intense relationship that shattered her sense of self, to finding clarity in nature, yoga studios, and unexpected friendships - Jessica shares her truth of what recovery really looks like — beyond just putting down the drink. Jessica shares the paradox of sobriety and insecurity — and why it’s often just the start of real inner work, how yoga, music and spoken word connected her to a...
2025-06-1749 minSchool of Rock BottomHow I Quit Heroin. School of Rock Bottom Thought #17: Carl ScottIn this next quick thought, I return to a powerful conversation with Carl Scott as we document the real turning point from heroin addiction to a purpose-driven life. We go through all the tools that helped Carl get clean. From methadone clinics, therapy, SMART, Intuitive Recovery to running recovery programmes, to finding identity in service – this is a story of action over talk, grit over glamour. Whether you’re struggling, supporting someone who is, or just need reminding of the power of community and purpose - this episode will resonate. About the “THOUGHT” series...
2025-06-0909 minSchool of Rock BottomRelapse Prevention: Self-Pity, Fear & Anger. School of Rock Bottom 60: Oliver MasonSelf-Pity, Fear & Anger! Addiction loves these themes to convince us that it's lies are real. Addiction doesn’t just lie—it uses your own voice to do it. And the worst part? It makes you believe it's all your fault and the only way out is a drink or a drug. In this solo episode, I go deeper than the obvious narratives. We break down the three hidden vehicles addiction uses to keep us stuck: self-pity, fear and anger. You’ll learn how to dismantle the belief that you don’t deserve self-for...
2025-06-0356 minSchool of Rock BottomWhat is OCD? School of Rock Bottom Thought #16:: Ria FayWhat if your own mind told you the worst possible things—and then punished you for thinking them? In this quick thought, I revisit my episode with actress Ria Fay who has suffered OCD symptoms since aged 5 and today she provides a poignant and powerful account of what it is like to live with untreated OCD. But what EXACTLY is OCD? We unpack all the elements of OCD and frame it around Ria's experience. This is about losing control of your thoughts, fearing who you are, and doing anything to stop the shame. If you’ve e...
2025-05-2614 minSchool of Rock Bottom"Just one drink turns to chaos!" School of Rock Bottom 59: Molly McBrideToday, award winning stand-up comic Molly McBride opens up about her harrowing descent into addiction and the moment she found herself locked in a psychiatric hospital 4 days after having just 'one' glass of wine. She documents a battle with alcohol that spiralled into years of chaos, blackouts, and a never-ending craving for more. Molly also sheds light on the horrors of drinking, how alcohol can quickly take control, and how devastating detox can be, revealing just how physically addictive the substance is and how it can lead to cocaine. But the struggle didn’t end th...
2025-05-2053 minSchool of Rock BottomHow Addiction Changes The Brain. School of Rock Bottom Thought #15: Oliver MasonIf you feel overwhelmed and confused after reading endless articles and books about addiction - you’re not alone. In this episode, I break down why understanding addiction is actually simple — and how knowing just TWO key parts of your brain could change everything. This isn’t about overcomplicating your recovery. It’s about cutting through the noise, empowering you with real knowledge, and showing you that healing is possible. If you want clarity and hope (not just jargon), this is for you.Today, I’m busting one of the biggest myths about addiction: that it's "too...
2025-05-1210 minSchool of Rock BottomLife After X Factor Almost Ruined Me! School of Rock Bottom 58: Raquelle GracieToday I welcome a powerhouse and all round lovely human Raquelle Gracie – an artist, entrepreneur, and former X Factor finalist who has worked with music legends like Pharrell Williams and Babyface. But it’s not all glitter and glam. Raquelle shares her unfiltered story of hitting an emotional 'bottom' in the ruthless world of the music industry.At just 23, Raquelle found herself rejected by Babyface’s label, dropped without a visa, and left stranded in LA with no money. But that was just the start of her battle. From facing personal betrayal to struggling with self-worth, rejection became...
2025-05-0658 minSchool of Rock BottomThirteen Years No Crack! School of Rock Bottom Thought #13: Eddy QueensIn this next quick thought, I revisit my conversation with Eddy Queens who is a star in the music industry—until addiction took everything.Dropped by her label, she spiralled into crack cocaine addiction. Within 2 years, she was homeless, trapped in a dangerous crack den, doing sex work to survive, stealing from family, and estranged from her son. Her life was ruled by a 24/7 drug habit.Now over 13 years clean and sober, Eddy shares how she got and stayed clean. This is not a celebrity comeback story—it’s about survival, forgiveness, and the real work o...
2025-04-2806 minSchool of Rock BottomAddiction Beyond The Media Storm! School of Rock Bottom 57: Georgina BaillieGeorgina Baillie found herself thrown into the centre of a media storm by Russel Brand & Jonathan Ross so explosive it forced the BBC to change its broadcasting rules forever. But she is not a scandal—she’s a fighter & a woman who refused to be defined by a moment she never chose. The horrific media onslaught that followed sent Georgina spiralling into a world of addiction to drugs, alcohol & sex. Born into the limelight as the granddaughter of legendary actor Andrew Sachs, Georgina has carved her own rebellious path in the entertainment world. From setting stages ablaze as t...
2025-04-2259 minSchool of Rock BottomHow To Rise After Tragedy. School of Rock Bottom Thought #13: Justin GovenderToo many of us wait. For change. For hope. For a miracle. But what if the miracle you're waiting for... is you?In this next thought, I revisit a moment spent with Justin Govender who was shot in the back by police and went on to represent South Africa in two Paralympics as we explore the idea that the lowest moments in his life—disability, depression, hopelessness—can be the very soil where new strength grows. It’s not about waiting for something to happen to you. It’s about becoming the force that changes everything. We dis...
2025-04-1405 minSchool of Rock Bottom"There was never enough cocaine!" School of Rock Bottom 56: Joe Sealey“I hear people say cocaine isn’t addictive—I couldn’t function without it.”Joe Sealey’s life was set for footballing greatness, following in the footsteps of his father, legendary Manchester United goalkeeper Les Sealey. But in the space of a week, his career was over due to injury and his father had passed away.What followed was a downward spiral of chronic cocaine and alcohol addiction— benders lasted for days, seizures, and regret so deep he wished he could go back and warn his younger self. But this is not where Joe’s story en...
2025-04-0859 minSchool of Rock BottomSex Addiction Unmasked! School of Rock Bottom Thought #12: Michael EmmettSex Addiction: The Truth No One Tells You!Sex addiction isn’t about pleasure—it’s about pain. In this next thought, Michael Emmett breaks down the reality of sex addiction, it's links to cocaine and revealing the devastating impact it had on his life. From childhood trauma to destructive relationships, he exposes the cycle of secrecy, dishonesty, and self-destruction. Can true healing ever happen? And what finally saved him from rock bottom? This is a conversation you won’t forget.About the “THOUGHT” series -Every other Monday at 5 PM, I’ll bring you a qu...
2025-03-3106 minSchool of Rock BottomHow I Stopped 35 Years of Drinking! School of Rock Bottom 55: Nigel JonesSober Curious? Tired of drinking? This episode is for you!After 35 years of drinking, Nigel Jones realised that his one bottle of wine a day added up to nearly a litre of pure alcohol a week. He wasn’t in a hospital bed. He wasn’t unable to function. But the panic attacks, anxiety, and sleepless nights were taking over.On 8th December 2020, he made a choice—quit or risk never making it to 60, losing time with his family forever.Nigel is now a best-selling author, life coach, and hypnotherapist, helping thousands break free f...
2025-03-2548 minSchool of Rock BottomHow I Quit Crystal Meth! School of Rock Bottom Thought #11: Robert HandsIn the next "thought", actor Robert Hands shares his journey of quitting crystal meth. There was no sudden epiphany, no grand moment of realisation—just a simple conversation that shifted everything. Through the haze of addiction, he heard someone say, "I'm stopping," and, somehow, that gave them permission to try too. But this wasn’t a story of instant success. The cravings remained, the struggle felt endless, and hope was nowhere to be found.The early days of sobriety were brutal. Sleep was almost impossible, and the urge to use never truly disappeared but one...
2025-03-1705 minSchool of Rock Bottom"I'm a Gen Z Alcoholic!" School of Rock Bottom 54: Mary-Kate HarringtonToday, I’m joined by Mary Kate, an acclaimed writer whose brutally honest account of addiction went viral, reaching over 4 million people with the title 'I'm a Gen Z Alcoholic' (link below).She opens up about what it truly takes to break free from alcohol—when you can’t live with it, but you can’t live without it.In this episode, you’ll learn why alcoholism is progressive, why blackouts happen and how to stop them, as well as the moment drinking crosses the invisible line into something far more d...
2025-03-1156 minSchool of Rock BottomIs Food Addiction Real? School of Rock Bottom Thought #10: Jenny McDonaldIs Food Addiction Real? Is food addiction just a lack of willpower, or is it as real as drug and alcohol dependency? Shocking studies reveal that rats overcame cocaine addiction faster than their junk food cravings. In this next quick 'thought', we uncover the science behind ultra-processed foods, how they hijack your brain's dopamine system, and why secret eating and using food to self soothe mirrors substance abuse. If you've ever struggled with emotional eating, binge eating, or feeling out of control around food, this might explain why—and what you can do about it.To...
2025-03-0311 minSchool of Rock BottomAlcohol & Nicotine Explained: William Porter. School of Rock Bottom 53Is alcohol really relaxing you—or trapping you?Today, I sit down with William Porter, author of Alcohol Explained, ex-paratrooper, and solicitor, to uncover the truth about addiction. William has completely redefined how we understand alcohol, smoking, and vaping—stripping away the myths that keep us hooked.In this episode, William shares his rock bottom moment, the shocking science behind alcohol dependency, and why we’ve been misled about booze for years. We break down:The hidden role of stress hormones—and why alcohol creates...
2025-02-251h 00School of Rock BottomIs There Joy In Addiction? School of Rock Bottom Thought #9: Basti WockerIs there joy in addiction? In this next quick thought, Sebastian Walker (author of the best selling book The Joy of Addiction) shares how realising he was an addict became the best thing that ever happened to him. He breaks down the difference between being a suffering addict and a recovering one, how surrendering can lead to freedom, and why clarity in sobriety changes everything. If you're struggling or know someone who is, this conversation offers powerful insights into recovery, mindset shifts, and how support networks like 12-step fellowships can make all the difference. About...
2025-02-1706 minSchool of Rock BottomGoing Alcohol-Free Changed Our Lives! Sisters Rise Above Illness & Betrayal. School of Rock Bottom 52: Gavin SistersToday, I’m joined by Sharon and Lauretta – better known as The Gavin Sisters – an acclaimed comedy duo who’ve graced TV and stage, written sitcoms for television, and penned plays for the West End.But behind the laughter, their lives took a devastating turn. Sharon was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease that left her unable to walk, losing her hair, and trapped in a toxic relationship. At the same time, Lauretta’s world fell apart when she discovered her husband was living a double life—while she was six months pregnant. Together, they hit roc...
2025-02-1149 minSchool of Rock BottomYou Can Escape Depression! School of Rock Bottom Thought #8: David SayersIn this next thought, we explore a pivotal realisation—how recognising that you're not alone can be a game-changer in mental health recovery & depression. David Sayers, a highly successful Managing Director, shares his personal turning point: sitting in a group therapy session, hearing someone else articulate their feelings with uncanny accuracy, and realising, this isn't just me. That moment of connection shifted everything, breaking the isolation that fuels depression.We discuss the importance of finding a support system—whether friends, family, or colleagues—who create space for open conversations, challenging stigma and how early intervention and organisations bridge the gap be...
2025-02-0311 minSchool of Rock Bottom"I only got sober when I lost my legs!" School of Rock Bottom 51: PaxWhat if losing everything was the beginning of truly living?
In this awe-inspiring episode, I sit down with one of my recovery heroes, Pax—a man who believes that losing his legs was the divine intervention that saved his life. Once living the high life, Pax’s descent into alcoholism left him homeless and battling life-threatening frostbite. But at rock bottom, he discovered a deeper purpose and finally accepted he was an alcoholic.
What’s even more astonishing? Pax wouldn’t change a thing.
Pax shares his unflinching truth: “God took my legs so I’d sit down, shut up, and list...
2025-01-2852 minSchool of Rock BottomHow Anorexia Starts & Ends. School of Rock Bottom 50: Sophie AndersonAnorexia isn't just about body image, social media and even control. Today, I welcome anorexia survivor Sophie Anderson who was hospitalised for months aged 12 for anorexia and is now 15 years in recovery! Today we uncover the hidden truths, damaging myths & misconceptions about anorexia and find recovery in the connections to addiction, trauma, family dynamics, genetics, emotional pain and finding the joy in food and who you really are. Anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, with 5-20% of those affected dying from medical complications or suicide. On average, individuals may be unwell for 8 years before recovery...
2025-01-1451 minSchool of Rock BottomSober Dave: "How to stop drinking for Dry January & Beyond!" School of Rock Bottom 49Thinking about doing Dry January or even a dry 2025? Maybe you're sober curious or your drinking has become problematic? Either way, this episode is for you! Sober Dave needs little introduction...
Sober Dave, a trauma-informed alcohol recovery specialist, speaker, and host of the Top 10 podcast One for the Road & has amassed a following of over 140k on Instagram alone. Dave shares his incredible journey from 40 years of alcohol addiction to nearly 6 years of sobriety. He reveals the moment that changed everything, how a simple text became his turning point, and the habits and community support that helped him rebuild...
2024-12-3053 minSchool of Rock Bottom"Gambling put me in prison but I haven't had a bet in 9 years!" School of Rock Bottom 48: Gab StoneGab Stone is an entrepreneur and talent agent whose skyrocketing career managing Olympic athletes came crashing down in one of the UK’s most infamous gambling stories.
Gab takes us behind the scenes of his high-pressure life during the London 2012 Olympics, where he managed 22 athletes, 13 of whom medaled, while privately battling a gambling addiction that eventually led to financial ruin and prison.
Now, nearly ten years into recovery, Gab opens up about rebuilding his life, finding purpose, and the urgent need for better awareness around gambling addiction. He speaks with brutal honesty about the shame, th...
2024-12-1752 minSchool of Rock BottomFacing Trauma & Finding Inner Peace. School of Rock Bottom 47: Maike Mullenders[TW//References to suicide & sexual abuse] Former actor Maike Mullender's life is a powerful story of resilience and self-discovery. In this extremely frank conversation, she opens up about the devastating loss of her father to suicide, a shocking and traumatic family secret, and the unanswered questions that haunted her past.
She takes us through the mental health battles, the perfectionism, and dissociation that defined her childhood. But it doesn’t end there – Maike shares her brave journey through therapy, embracing uncertainty, and discovering inner peace.
From finding healing through yoga and meditation to accepting the comp...
2024-12-0352 minSchool of Rock Bottom"I spent 2 million pounds on cocaine!" School of Rock Bottom 46: Martin John"I spent 2 million pounds on cocaine!"
Martin John went from poverty to millionaire status—and almost lost his life in the process. At the height of his addiction, he was spending £5,000 a week on cocaine, even eating it off a spoon when his nose gave out. In this no-nonsense episode, Martin pulls no punches, sharing how his drive for wealth and success spiralled into a nightmare of addiction. He reveals why hitting rock bottom wasn’t losing his money but discovering how empty success could feel. This is the unfiltered truth about the hidden cost of chasing it all. Huge...
2024-11-1953 minSchool of Rock BottomIs Recovery From Bulimia Possible? School of Rock Bottom Thought #2: Kelly WenhamThought #2: How a Recovery Coach Helped Me Overcome Bulimia. In this second quick thought, we explore the difference a recovery coach can make in eating disorder recovery, especially when traditional therapy methods like CBT & OA fall short. My guest Kelly Wenham shares her personal journey of overcoming bulimia, finding new perspectives on food and self-worth, and breaking free from black-and-white thinking around eating.About the “THOUGHT” series -Every other Monday at 5 PM, I’ll bring you a quick ‘thought'—a powerful moment from previous episodes designed to kickstart your week with insight, motivation...
2024-11-1107 minSchool of Rock BottomThe Emotional Storms That Fuel Addiction. School of Rock Bottom 45: Lauran WareJoin me as I sit down with emotional wellness expert Lauran Ware to uncover the truth behind how and why emotional storms fuel addiction. Lauran shares her personal journey through rock bottom, revealing how unresolved emotional trauma can drive dependencies—not just on substances but in relationships. Learn how emotional regulation, setting boundaries, and healing unresolved pain are crucial for real recovery.
Discover powerful insights on overcoming addiction, navigating emotional triggers, and why Lauran believes that manifesting and pornography can be dangerously misleading in today’s culture. Whether you're on your own recovery path or want to understand the emot...
2024-11-0552 minSchool of Rock BottomAm I an Alcoholic? School of Rock Bottom Thought #1: David Schaal.Thought #1: Alcoholic Denial & Love Addiction. In this first quick thought, actor David Schaal (known from The Inbetweeners and The Office) shares how Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) shaped his understanding of alcoholism and influenced his relationships and journey through love addiction recovery. Discover his insights into alcoholic denial and the power of self-awareness.About the “THOUGHT” series -Every other Monday at 6 PM, I’ll bring you a quick ‘thought'—a powerful moment from previous episodes designed to kickstart your week with insight, motivation, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, bran...
2024-10-2807 minSchool of Rock BottomHow I Overcame My Darkest Moment - Crohn's & Depression Recovery. SO Rock Bottom 44: Gareth BerlinerThis episode is about how, when life throws everything at you, the choice to keep going can change everything.
Gareth Berliner opens up about living with Crohn’s disease, short gut syndrome (short bowel syndrome) and ADHD. After enduring years of surgeries, pain, and battling severe depression, Gareth reached his breaking point. In a moment where life or death was on the line, an unexpected realisation made him choose life—leading him to an unlikely savior: comedy.
From Comedian to now actor, Gareth’s story isn’t just about survival. It’s about finding love and discovering that the hardest st...
2024-10-2248 minSchool of Rock BottomDoes Your Parent Drink Too Much? School of Rock Bottom 43: Sammy KingstonDid you know 1 in 5 people are affected by a parent's drinking? In this powerful episode, we hear from TEDx speaker Sammy Kingston, who lost her mother to alcoholism in 2018. After being estranged for 10 years, Sammy had just 10 minutes with her mother before she passed from stage 4 liver disease. This life-changing moment led Sammy to get sober and dedicate herself to helping children of alcoholics and anyone struggling with alcohol addiction.
Sammy shares her deeply personal story, reflecting on how her mother’s addiction impacted her mental health as both a child and adult. She discusses overcoming isolation, people-pleasing, fear of...
2024-10-0854 minSchool of Rock BottomHow Talking Saves Lives. School of Rock Bottom 42: Ben Akers & Talk Club[TW//Suicide] Ben Akers on Male Suicide Prevention: Men’s Talking Group & registered charity "Talk Club" Saving Lives in the UK.
Ben Akers, a filmmaker and mental health advocate, lost his best friend, Steve, to suicide. Like many men, Steve was unable to express his feelings due to societal pressures to "man up." This loss inspired Ben to create a documentary that evolved into a life-saving network of men's talking groups (and a registered charity), now with over 100 Talk Clubs across the UK. Why is this so important?
Male Suicide Statistics in the UK:
- 115 pe...
2024-09-2450 minSchool of Rock BottomAddiction Tore My Family Apart: Reclaim Your Power! School of Rock Bottom 41: Brandon Lee SearsBrandon has a light that can fill any room—his energy is infectious. But behind that light is a story of survival. At just 7 years old, his world collapsed when his mother became addicted to crack. Homeless and hungry, Brandon took on the role of protector for his younger brothers, every day a fight for survival. By 10, he found stability in a loving foster family, but the grip of addiction lingered in his life.
Despite it all, Brandon chose a path of positivity. Armed with faith and an unwavering love for performing arts, he’s turned his pain into purpose. His...
2024-09-1051 minSchool of Rock BottomFrom Casual Drinking to Full-Blown Alcoholism. School of Rock Bottom 40: Oliver MasonFor the first time, I'm finally telling my story—a story of how alcohol slowly destroyed my life, leaving me physically and mentally powerless addicted & suicidal. I used to be a weekend-only drinker, fully focused on my career but one "hair of the dog" turned into drinking all week and, before I knew it, I was trapped in alcoholism. I was diagnosed with chronic and severe alcohol use disorder and drinking daily. Today, I share my story to give hope. If you feel like you’ve sunk so low that there’s no way out, know that recove...
2024-08-2757 minSchool of Rock BottomWhat Does Addiction Look Like? School of Rock Bottom 39: RaffaWho struggles with addiction? Is it only the person you see drinking on a park bench at dawn, or could it also be a respected judge, or perhaps a Muslim grandfather? Addiction does not discriminate—it affects people from all walks of life, regardless of age, culture, or background.
In today’s episode, I am honored to welcome Raffa, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the recovery field. Now running a private rehab in Watford, Raffa brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to the conversation. Together, we will explore the realities of addiction and recovery, chal...
2024-08-1356 minSchool of Rock BottomEscaping The Grip of Porn & Sex Addiction. School of Rock Bottom 38: Mark ShentonTheatre critic Mark Shenton discovered his sexuality via a porn mag in Soho aged 16, that quickly turned into an addiction alongside sex addiction which escalated to him hiring porn stars by the hour. Now 12 years into his recovery, Mark found a way out of a living hell that ended in a deep, dark depression and a stark feeling of hopelessness.
Mark Shenton is a very well known theatre critic but today he shows us his deeply personal and human side in, perhaps, my most raw and astoundingly honest interview yet. I cannot thank you enough for being so deeply...
2024-07-3050 minSchool of Rock BottomControl & Abuse Disguised As Love! School of Rock Bottom 37: Smilee[TW//Coercive Control & Abuse]
Today, I welcome singer/songwriter Smilee. At 18, she entered a relationship with a man who was 24 years older which started off with a lovely holiday abroad only to be trapped in relationship with regular menacing threats, humiliation, manipulation, isolation, stalking, intimidation, gaslighting & even examples of financial and physical abuse. Unfortunately, Smilee's ordeal is far too common...
1 in 5 adults experience domestic abuse during their lifetime. This equates to: 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6-7 men. Coercive control is a crime (in The UK) & 95% of those prosecuted are male & 94% of cases escape conviction due to failures in the...
2024-07-1552 minSchool of Rock BottomHigh-Functioning Alcoholism Became Unbearable. School of Rock Bottom 36: Rupert HillActor Rupert Hill was a very high functioning and pleasant drinker who could hide his alcoholism behind a successful career as an actor and publican which also helped fuel the denial.
Over decades, Rupert's drinking became more and more unstainable - he found himself wanting a drink before going on stage and even in the middle of the night. Rupert decided to announce that he was sober on social media and has had the word "FREE" tatooed on the wrist of his drinking hand as a reminder to never go back. Rupert explains his slow decline into alcoholism and how...
2024-07-0251 minSchool of Rock BottomWhy All My Relationships Lasted 3 Weeks - Love Addiction Recovery. SO Rock Bottom 35: Livvie May[TW//reference to suicide]
Livvie May is an actress from Bristol and lives in East London with her cat, Carole. After the break up of her first serious realtionship, Livvie tried to take her own life and thankfully survived. This started a destructive cycle of toxic relationships & encounters that lasted a decade. A friend suggested she attend Sex & Love Addiction Anonymous and her life immediately changed for the better.
In this emotionally raw and honestly episode, actor Livvie May candidly shares her journey of grappling with sex and love addiction. From her tumultuous relationships at university to challenging patterns of...
2024-06-1853 minSchool of Rock Bottom"This One Thing Stopped My Anxiety, Depression & OCD!" School of Rock Bottom 34: Oliver Newton[TW// References to suicide, intrusive thoughts, OCD & depression]
Oly spent a decade battling severe mental illness, losing his former confident and outgoing self to severe negative thoughts, OCD, anxiety and depression. One day, in his darkest hour, he pulled out a gym kit and went for run and he has run every day since! Through running he regained confidence and self-belief and for the first time in 10 years the negative thoughts stopped.
Today, Oly is an esteemed International Speaker, Mental Health Advocate and Trainer - sharing his journey to inspire others to seek help and embrace their own path...
2024-06-0456 minSchool of Rock BottomHow I Quit Alcohol at 21! School of Rock Bottom 33: Issy HawkinsFrom rehab, alcohol addiction & alcoholism at 21 to sobriety and success!
Issy Hawkins is an actor and content creator with over 100,000 followers on social media.
Issy walks us through getting sober at 21 and covers topics for anyone who is sober curious right through to full blown alcoholism including sex and dating, partying, following your dreams, how to live your best life sober & forming an amazing relationship with yourself and your passions. A.HUGE. THANK. YOU ❤️
More on Issy -
After graduating drama school into the pandemic in 2020, Issy decided to focus on her...
2024-05-2155 minSchool of Rock BottomInside the Mind of a Love Addict. School of Rock Bottom 32: Darren[TW//references to suicide]
Love addiction is as a very serious issue with far-reaching consequences. It can lead to broken relationships, career setbacks, parenting challenges, financial difficulties, legal troubles, and health risks like STDs. In extreme cases, it can escalate to tragic outcomes such as stalking, domestic violence, suicide or murder.
Today's guest is Darren, a multi-talented creative who identifies as a love avoidant/fantasy addict.
For anyone curious about what love addiction is and if it applies to them - this is the podcast for you! Five years ago, following a break up, Darren contemplated taking his life but...
2024-05-0752 minSchool of Rock Bottom"My first breath was Jack & Crack - Now I'm 44 yrs sober!" School of Rock Bottom 31: Tom Clarke-Hill44 years sober. Yup, you read that right. Tom Clarke-Hill is an actor and musician from California and he speaks publically, with raw honesty and TONS of humour, for the first time about what was happening when he was 25 years old suffering from addiction and alcoholism and his life was falling apart. 12 steps later, Tom is happy, joyous and free for over four decades and he shares precisely how he did it and how he maintains his recovery. Tom proves that recovery is real freedom, that you can have the most fun in your life sober and that you can get...
2024-04-231h 00School of Rock Bottom"I said NOTHING about my breakdown for 20 years!" School of Rock Bottom 30: Jon Salmon[TW//references to suicide]
Jon Salmon is an award-winning executive producer, digital pioneer and mental health campaigner. Jon was asked to speak alongside the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry at the launch of the Heads Together mental health campaign. Jon lost his father to suicide as a teenager and soon after he was sectioned and admitted to hospital suffering stress and depression. Unlike his Dad, Jon was able to get the right help and support yet Jon decided not to tell anyone for nearly 20 years that he had suffered with his mental health due to the fear...
2024-04-091h 01School of Rock BottomFrom Crack Drug Lord to Top Boy Actor! School of Rock Bottom 29: Jennifer Joseph[TW//Drug use, drug dealing]
At 16, actor Jennifer Joseph was coerced into a life of drug dealing. Quickly she rose to the very top and was known as The General, travelling the world as a generator and importer of narcotics - with connections to all the major players including "The Cocaine Godmother" Griselda Blanco. Jen thought she was invincible, whilst also battling a daily crack addiction and, eventually, was caught at Gatwick airport with hundreds of thousands of pounds of marijuana and was sent to prison at aged 39.
This rock bottom proved to be the moment she completely changed...
2024-03-2657 minSchool of Rock BottomHow I Stopped Binge Drinking & Drugging! School of Rock Bottom 28: John Pickard[TW//Binge drinking, drug use]
John Pickard is an actor, producer and filmmaker with a career spanning 25 years gracing the screens of many UK TV classics including 2 point 4 Children & Hollyoaks found himself out of work, depressed and using alcohol and drugs to cope with his emotions and an internal sense of feeling like a failure - hurtled into the dark abyss of periods of not drinking/using into periods of binge drinking/using until the birth of his daughter and a new life beckoned. John has been "clean" (as he puts it) for 5 years and has never looked back with...
2024-03-1250 minSchool of Rock BottomGeorgia Lock: The Day My Brain Broke - OCD & Anxiety Recovery. School of Rock Bottom 27[TW//OCD, Intrusive thoughts, extreme anxiety]It was New Year's Eve and actor Georgia Lock's world was about to turn upside down & change forever. In the blink of an eye, as the clock passed midnight, Georgia's (as she puts it) "brain broke". What followed was a cascade of intrusive thoughts, anxiety, worry, compulsions and fear. She didn't feel like she could trust her mind or believe she could ever recover. Fortunately, Georgia was relatively quickly diagnosed with OCD and her healing journey could begin. With a huge amount of hard work, determination & passion she is on the beautiful path...
2024-02-2758 minSchool of Rock BottomDanny Kirrane: You Can Control Overthinking, Anxiety & Binge Eating. School of Rock Bottom 26From a young age, actor Danny Kirrane had intrusive thoughts and suffered anxiety, overthinking and imposter syndrome.
Acting and food was the perfect escape until his family life fell apart aged 18 which made his conditions snowball and created a food addiction and an unhealthy relationship with food. Danny found the courage to find therapy which has transformed his mindset and career. Although he can still struggle with anxiety and can still use food as a way to cope and push down negative emotions - his relationship with himself and an acceptance of what makes him human means he no longer...
2024-02-1350 min
School of Rock BottomLove Island's Malin Andersson (EXCLUSIVE!): Binge Drinking & Suicidal Thoughts. SO Rock Bottom 25I had the pleasure to have a powerful conversation with Love Island star Malin Andersson. On this podcast, she opens up about things she has never talked about publicly until today - battling alcohol use disorder & binge drinking.
[TW] Malin has survived the grief of both parents passing to cancer and the death of her baby daughter, anxiety, depression, bulimia, domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, sexual assault, potpartum OCD, suicidal thoughts and overdose. Despite all of this Malin is an absolute beacon of light and hope whose message is deeply aligned to the soul of this podcast.
2024-01-301h 00School of Rock BottomLet's End Heroin Addiction & Knife Crime! School of Rock Bottom 23: Carl Scott[TW//Drug Misuse & Violence]
Carl Scott suffered childhood abuse, domestic violence and was groomed into a gang at age 13. He's been stabbed 3 times, his best friend died in his arms and at 15 he was living in a hostel addicted to heroin - then onto prison. 7 years ago, Carl changed his life completely and went on a mission to help other people get free of drugs and alcohol and has set up Project Youth to empower Young People to prevent youth crime and violence through education programmes, 1 to 1 mentoring and group workshops. Carl is working with the local police to set...
2024-01-021h 04School of Rock BottomEscape Addiction: 12 Lies Exposed! School of Rock Bottom 22: Relapse Prevention with Oliver MasonThe 12 Lies of Addiction - Tools to stay clean & sober and avoid relapse from alcohol & drug addiction. Christmas can be an incredibly difficult time for anyone in recovery from alcohol or substance misuse. The festive season, with its endless social events and alcohol-fuelled celebrations, can make it harder to stay clean & sober. In this episode, I’m exposing The 12 Lies of Addiction—the misleading thoughts that can lead to relapse. By recognising these lies, you can make healthier choices and strengthen your recovery toolkit. Whether you're new or have been in recovery for years, this epis...
2023-12-1952 minSchool of Rock BottomFree Yourself From Anxiety & OCD! School of Rock Bottom 21: Ria Fay[TW//OCD, POCD, Obsessions, Compulsions]
Actor Ria Fay's anxiety, panic, fear, intrusive thoughts and compulsions were out of control. The pandemic proved to be a challenging period for the world, but it was especially harrowing for those dealing with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Ria has suffered OCD symptoms since aged 5 and today she provides a poignant and powerful account of what it's like to live with untreated OCD, recounting how her condition reached it's lowest point during the pandemic, posing a significant threat to her acting career.
However, this low point became the catalyst for Ria's remarkable recovery. With the...
2023-12-0554 minSchool of Rock BottomCrack Addiction Pushed Me Into Sex Work - Now I'm 13 Years Drug Free! School of Rock Bottom 20[TW//Crack cocaine use, sex work]
Eddy Queens was setting the world alight with her incredible singing, then suddenly was dropped by her label, she fell into a depression and got addicted to crack cocaine.
She was instantly hooked and within 2 -3 years Eddy's home was a dangerous crack den that pushed her into sex work, being homeless, estranged from her family, stealing and a 24/7 drug addiction to crack. Now 13 years clean and sober, Eddy will show that no matter how powerful the addiction and it's earth-shattering consequences - the power of recovery is far, far stronger.
She fell hard...
2023-11-2146 minSchool of Rock BottomShot & Paralysed Then A Paralympics Superstar! School of Rock Bottom 18: Justin Govender[TW//Near Death Shooting, Serious Injury]
South African Justin Govender was shot in the back by the police and he became a paraplegic at 17 years of age. What was a tragic moment at the time was to become one the most remarkable journeys of a lifetime.
Justin hurtled into the abyss of feelings of hopelessness and despair waiting for a miracle to happen - only to hit rock bottom and realise he had to be the miracle. He went on to find himself through wheelchair basketball and it breathed new life into him.
...
2023-10-2452 minSchool of Rock BottomCathy Tyson: Misery, Isolation, Shame To Finding Joy & Winning a BAFTA! School of Rock Bottom 17[TW//Divorce, anxiety, depression]
Today I welcome acting royalty - the incredible BAFTA award-winning Cathy Tyson!
Following the breakdown of her marriage in her 20s, Cathy suffered from anxiety and her self-esteem plummeted. She branded herself a 'failure' which resulted in bouts of extreme misery, loneliness, isolation, the breakdown of relationships and feelings of shame which lasted years. Cathy strongly felt (back then) that admitting her struggles would be more evidence that she was a 'failure'. She kept throwing herself into acting roles to distract herself from her declining mental health which only got worse with time. Over 20 years ago...
2023-10-101h 02School of Rock BottomRecovery From Sex, Crime, Prison & Drug Addiction! School of Rock Bottom 16: Michael Emmett[TW//Sexual abuse, sex addiction, criminal acts, drug and alcohol use]
In 1993, author Michael Emmett found his name in the headlines when he was
nicked for a £13million drug bust and sentanced to 12-and-a-half years in prison. Today we are going on a journey of recovery from crime, prison, drugs, the love of money and sex addiction. Discover the shocking and hugely inspiring life of Michael Emmett whose dad was connected to The Krays, Freddie Foreman, Frankie Frasier, The Richardson's Gang & The Great Train Robbers.
While in prison, with his father in the same cell, he happened to find God, h...
2023-09-261h 00School of Rock BottomPostnatal Depression - How To Come Back Stronger! School of Rock Bottom 15: Carryl Thomas[TW//Postnatal Depression, Suicidal Thoughts]
80% of mothers experience "baby blues" but 10% have a dramatic increase in symptoms that lasts beyond the usual 1-3 weeks and can develop into postnatal depression. These symptoms were horrific for my next guest, actor Carryl Thomas, who experienced suicidal thoughts and a breakdown. She found the strength to ask for help and is now a hugely positive voice on helping other parents with baby blues, postnatal depression and finding a sense of the individual self as well as being a parent. Carryl is also mother to successful young performers and she discusses how to manage...
2023-09-1259 minSchool of Rock BottomFrom Injecting Crystal Meth To The Olivier Awards! School Of Rock Bottom 14: Robert Hands[TW//Crystal Meth, Intravenous Drug Use]
Today I welcome Olivier Award nominated actor Robert Hands who trained at Bristol Old Vic and has been an actor for 35 years appearing in leading roles in film, theatre, television and West End musicals.
Robert quit alcohol in his late 20's but many years after was offered to smoke methamphetamine and within three months he was injecting crystal meth. Robert lost absolutely everything but he then went on an incredible journey of recovery and getting his career and life back on track. Robert now has a happy and healthy life and he is a...
2023-08-2956 minSchool of Rock BottomTransforming Grief: Navigating Loss Through the Power of Creativity. School of Rock Bottom 13: T.M/O[TW//Sudden death of a parent and grief]
8 million people suffered from the sudden death of someone close to them last year. Since the pandemic, 1 in 8 have experienced bereavement and 10-20% will go on to suffer from complex grief or prolonged grief.
Today I welcome T.M/O who is a multidisciplinary artist, notorious wordsmith, and an exceptionally inspirational character! UK based T has been performing her hard hitting spoken word since 2017, on stages nationwide from Edinburgh to Weymouth.
Most guests on the podcast have been in recovery a long time from their rock bottom and have the benefit of...
2023-08-1539 minSchool of Rock BottomA Way Out Of Cocaine & Drug Addiction! School of Rock Bottom 12: Sebastian Wocker[TW//Drug Misuse, Suicidal Thoughts]
Today I welcome singer, songwriter and author of the Amazon bestseller The Joy of Addiction, Sebastian Wocker.
Aged 17, Wocker landed the principal part of Woof in the 1983 European tour of the musical Hair where, suffering teenage angst, low self-worth and low self-esteem, he went into a deep depression and had to throw in the towel after two months. He returned to his safe haven of drugs and alcohol in London, where he auditioned for and got into LAMDA (London Academy of Dramatic Arts), only to drop out after two days because he 'couldn't stand all...
2023-08-0146 minSchool of Rock BottomBreak Free From Food Addiction & Regain A Positive Body Image! School of Rock Bottom 11[TW//Food Addiction, Bullying]
At least 5% of the world's population are addicted to foods full of fat and sugar which can supercharge the brain’s reward system similarly to the way addictive drugs do leading to a multitude of health problems, including: Obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep apnea, depression, osteoarthritis, cancer, reproductive problems and gallstones.
By age 12, former actress and theatre maker Jenny McDonald was a size 16. She picked up unhelpful messages about food being good and bad, which led to 'secret eating' and shame and guilt around food. Jenny went on to...
2023-07-1857 minSchool of Rock BottomHow A Managing Director Manages Depression. School of Rock Bottom 10: David Sayers[TW//Clinical Depression, Suicidal Thoughts]
5% globally have depression or a depressive illness.
Depression/anxiety has become a leading cause of disability. By 2030, the World Health Organization predicts the disorder to be the main contributor to the global burden of disease.
In The UK, in March 2020 prevalence was 10% rising to 21% during the pandemic and now sits at round 16% or 1 in 6.
Today, to mark the 10th episode, I welcome a guest who works outside of the creative industries to add another lens to the wealth of experience I've had on the show thus far.
Twelve years ago, David found himself in a...
2023-07-0457 minSchool of Rock BottomJonathan Goodwin: Nearly Dying & Using A Wheelchair Is A Great Teacher. School of Rock Bottom 9[TW//Near Death Accident, Serious Injury]
Jonathan Goodwin has been called “the closest thing we can boast to a real life superhero”, and “the worlds greatest theatrical stunt performer”. The judges of both Britain's Got Talent and America's Got Talent described him as ''the most dangerous act in the world." Jonathan has been hanged, buried alive, locked in a box while covered in 200,000 bees, attacked by sharks, bitten by rattlesnakes and hung from his toes from helicopters. Jonathan has performed on every continent except Antarctica and in every US State except Alaska. Goodwin has played Broadway, London’s West End, Sydney Ope...
2023-06-201h 31School of Rock BottomHow I Triumphed Over Gambling, Love Addiction & Alcoholism! School of Rock Bottom 8: Nicole Hall[TW//Gambling, Love Addiction, Alcohol Dependence, Trauma, Abuse]
Today I welcome actor and former magician Nicole Hall as we discuss how genetics and environment may have impacted her journey into love, gambling and alcohol addiction. Nicole generously shares how she used fantasy as a way to escape the negative memories and emotions from childhood trauma. Then Nicole discovered she was very gifted in performing and it also served as the perfect escape. This led her to university and much professional acting work, including a semi regular role in BBC's Casualty. Meanwhile, Nicole had known since she was born that she...
2023-06-0657 minSchool of Rock BottomTorchwood Star Kai Owen: How I Stopped Drinking! School of Rock Bottom 7[TW//Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Alcoholism]
Today I welcome actor Kai Owen who is a popular and familiar face on the British stage and television, appearing in numerous shows on major UK television channels. Kai is best known for his roles in the hugely popular UK continuing drama series Hollyoaks playing the role of Pete Buchanan and as Rhys Williams in the smash hit series Torchwood.
Kai had an idyllic childhood growing up in the heart of Snowdonia in Wales surrounded by inspiring, hard working, working class alpha males whilst his mum worked three jobs. He comes from a drinking town...
2023-05-2354 minSchool of Rock BottomBounce Back From Body Dysmorphia, C-PTSD, Dissociation & Hyperarousal. School of Rock Bottom 6[TW//Complex PTSD, Dissociation, Hyperarousal, Body Dysmorphia]
Today I welcome singer/songwriter Rachel Mayfield who is a groundbreaking conceptual artist, known for her work in the genre of alternative arts. She began her early career as the principal songwriter and front person of rock band Delicious Monster who charted nationally with their brand of Indie Rock and hailed as ‘One of the most important women in music’ by the high culture press and the NME.
Rachel has battled and overcome many mental health disorders, including complex PTSD, dissociation hyperarousal and body dysmorphia.
Rachel bravely bares her soul and spirit as she...
2023-05-0948 minSchool of Rock BottomYou Can Heal From Childhood Sexual Abuse, PTSD & Alcoholism. School of Rock Bottom 5: Andy Jeffery[TW//PTSD, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Paedophilia, Alcoholism] There are 2 million adult survivors of sexual abuse in the UK. 1 in 4 women are raped or assaulted. 1 in 20 men. 1 in 5 children.
Childhood abuse survivors are 7x more likely to be alcohol addicts; 10x more at risk of intravenous drug addiction and 12x more likely to attempt suicide.
Today it is an honour to welcome Andy Jeffery who was heavily involved in drama as a youngster and has over 20 years in theatre management and organising numerous National Music Hall and Variety Festivals. These days, Andy is a public speaker, writer and campaigner whose autobiographical...
2023-04-2556 minSchool of Rock BottomDefeat Imposter Syndrome, Anxiety & Alcohol Abuse! School of Rock Bottom 4: Georgina White[TW//Imposter Syndrome, Alcohol Misuse, Anxiety, Suicidal Thoughts] Today I welcome actor and singer, Georgina White.
An emotional rock bottom is excruciatingly painful, often hidden from those around you and kept a secret. On the outside, you may appear to have everything yet, on the inside, be planning ways to end your life or feel completely trapped and desperate.
Georgina's relationship to alcohol had broken down beyond repair. What started off as a way to have fun and be social very, very slowly became a way to cope with the stress of life. Georgina was using alcohol to self medicate...
2023-04-1150 minSchool of Rock BottomRecover From Bipolar, Prison, Addiction & Alcoholism! School of Rock Bottom 3: Mark Lockyer[TW//Bipolar, Prison, Addiction, Alcoholism, Depression, Suicide]
Today I welcome actor, RADA graduate and RSC royalty Mark Lockyer. In the early 1990s, he was a rising star of the The Royal Shakespeare Company. By the mid-90s, his life was in chaos that led to imprisonment and eventually a mental hospital where he got the treatment he needed. Mark took his one man autobiographical show, Living With The Lights On, on tour in the UK and abroad to five stars reviews. Just like this podcast, it is a story of hope and turning your life around from the depths...
2023-03-2857 minSchool of Rock BottomBeat Bulimia, Binge Eating & Anxiety. School of Rock Bottom 2: Kelly Wenham[TW//Eating disorders, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Anxiety, Body Image, Suicide] 1.25 million people in the UK struggle with eating disorders such as bulimia and binge eating. Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental health conditions. Suicide is the major cause of death, with those suffering with bulimia 7 x more likely to commit suicide.
Today I welcome Kelly Wenham who is an accomplished actress, voice over artist, writer and director. At the age of 16, she landed the role of Jess Buckley on the smash hit ITV drama 'Where The Heart Is' which she appeared as a series regular f...
2023-03-141h 07
School of Rock BottomInbetweeners Star Gets Recovery From Alcohol & Love Addiction. School of Rock Bottom 1: David Schaal[TW//Alcoholism, Love Addiction, Drug Use, Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Thoughts]
I'm delighted to welcome actor David Schaal, best known for playing Jay’s Dad in The Inbetweeners and Taffy in The Office. David has an amazing career but has had to survive huge mental health challenges in his life including anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, love addiction and alcoholism. David expertly takes us through the causes and conditions of these dark moments and then shows us exactly how he turned it all around. David also talks candidly about the entertainment industry and shares words of wisdom for anyone pursuing any career pa...
2023-02-2842 min
Remote RubyIntroducing Andrew Mason, CI Tooling, Ruby 2.7 Features, Rails 6.1 on the Radar Rubocop Linter GitHub ActionWhat's New in Ruby 2.7Pattern Matching - New Feature in Ruby 2.7 by Kazuki TsujimotoModel Error as Object (Rails PR #32313)Introduce Support for ActionView::Component (Rails PR #36388)ActionView::Component Previews (ActionView::Component PR #96) Chris Oliver X/Twitter Andrew Mason X/Twitter Jason Charnes X/Twitter
2019-12-0653 min
Remote RubyJoined by Andrew Mason Andrew on TwitterAndrew on GitHub Chris Oliver X/Twitter Andrew Mason X/Twitter Jason Charnes X/Twitter
2019-09-2052 min