Shows
THE CLINKRon Isherwood: Moments of RedemptionThis is a look back to Brent's chat with Ron Isherwood Ronald Isherwood grew up in the slums of Fitzroy, Melbourne. His father was a member of the notorious painters and dockers union. From a life time of crime, addiction, lavish living, and prison, Ron's seen it all. In this two part epsiode Ron tells Brent about his real life story of redemption and how he is now helping others. Hear the full 2 part chat back in season 6 of The ClinkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2024-10-1518 min
The Truth About AddictionEp118. Daniela Anicic, trauma-informed legal support to assist abuse survivors find justice and healingMeet Daniela, a distinguished lawyer at the prestigious Whitehall & Associates. She is more than just a lawyer, having worked with individuals facing trauma, mental health issues, homelessness and other challenging circumstances. In this episode, Daniela and Ron explore the connections between trauma, addiction and mental health. They also discuss the resources Whitehall and Associates provide to support their clients throughout the claim process and post-settlement. The victims are listened to and their experiences are validated.If you have suffered emotional, physical or sexual abuse, speaking up is an act of bravery and can ultimately bring cl...2024-09-2943 min
The Truth About AddictionEp117. Anna Martin, women supporting women through gambling addictionAnna faced the challenge of overcoming a gambling addiction that threatened both her personal and professional life. To take control, she voluntarily excluded herself from gambling venues through a self-barring scheme.In this episode, Ron and Anna delve into the highly profitable gambling industry.“It’s a predatory industry with a predatory product.”Anna recounts her path to recovery, from attending Pokey’s Anonymous meetings to confronting other struggles, including food addiction. Today, she is a proud attorney and a key advocate for The Untangled Project, where she and a group of like-minded women pr...2024-09-1441 min
Mel Bampton Presents...How HumanHow To Break Free From Criminal Conditioning with Ron IsherwoodAs a mother, a foster carer, a therapist and a fairly compassionate human being, I often watch the world in horror, as judgements are made about others disregarding the path they walked in their childhood. Often we express outrage at child abuse but when the effects of that abuse play out in that child during adolescents and into adulthood, suddenly all compassion dries up – we get convenient amnesia to make way for righteous outrcries – forgetting the horrors that person may have been raised in. For my guest today, the conditioning that was set in motion during their horri...2024-04-171h 04
The Truth About AddictionEp93. Ron Isherwood - My experience, strength and hopeI have a thinking problem long before I had a drinking problem. I was a blackout drinker. I have an ‘allergy’ to drugs and alcohol.But today, I care about other people and I freely share what I have. If you'd like to connect with me or have recommendations for my show, please use the links below:www.instagram.com/thetruthabout_addiction/ www.thetruthaboutaddiction.com.au Thank you for your support. One day at a time.2024-01-0517 min
The Truth About AddictionEp90. Kohdi Rayne, un-label ‘the addict’ to find your true selfWise beyond his 38 years of age, Kohdi Rayne is currently digitally working with 1700 people through his online programs, spreading awareness on addiction recovery via various platforms with over 700K followers.Kohdi’s drinking lasted for over 24 years, starting from the age of 8. At the peak of his alcoholism, he consumed nearly 2 and a half bottles of vodka a day to stay alive, suffering convulsions if he went without a drink.In 2017, Kohdi faced a 'near-death' experience and was given less than a week to live due to Esophageal Varices (the veins in his throat burst, fi...2023-12-151h 02
The Stick Up with Russell ManserTransformation Coach and Author - Ron IsherwoodThis week, we have the pleasure of being joined again by Ex-Con, Transformation Coach and Author Ron Isherwood.In this episode, the boys discuss Ron’s story from being born into a criminal family and having spent most of his adolescence in prisons and institutions struggling through addiction & recovery. He eventually came out the other side of it all, now standing as 37 years clean and free from a life of crime.Follow The Stick Up on Instagram and TikTokFollow Russell Manser on Instagram and TikTok...2023-12-1145 min
The Truth About AddictionEp89. Tim Bradshaw, addiction recovery is an extreme sportTim worked in the music business for over 20 years. It wasn’t until the breakdown of his marriage that he wanted to do something different, something he really loved. He found his true passion in photography.It took a lot of time to repair the damage from his challenging addiction days. Today, Tim is a highly sought-after photographer and is critically acclaimed in his field. Tim describes the incredible gifts he gained from recovery, emphasising that “Recovery is the only thing you can’t take from me”.https://www.timbradshawphotography.com/ Instagram: @timbradshaw.visuals2023-12-0825 min
The Truth About AddictionEp88. Soberdave, victory over 40 years of alcoholismSoberdave's journey is a testament to his strength and resilience, as he overcame a 40-year reliance on alcohol. Despite receiving comments about his drinking problem, Dave initially took offence and turned to solitary drinking to avoid judgment. He experienced numerous rock bottoms and faced various health issues such as high blood pressure, weight gain, acid reflux, and depression. Dave attempted Alcoholics Anonymous and sought solace in ‘God’ but found no success. However, everything changed when a close friend proposed a three-month sobriety challenge, which Dave accepted. This experience led him to discover a new approach to sobriety, understanding that the...2023-12-011h 09
The Truth About AddictionEp87. Leks ‘celebrated’ every time he got a couple of months up, now celebrating one year clean‘I just couldn’t get it right.’Having known him since birth, Leks grew up in a tumultuous and dysfunctional home environment alongside my good friend, his father, who was battling a raging heroin addiction. By the age of 11, he sought refuge in the wrong crowd, leading to his experimentation with drugs. Driven by financial pursuits, regardless of the legitimacy of the business deal, he picked up an ice habit at 14, and ultimately landed in jail.Yet, amidst the struggles, Leks found his support system. As his father embraced recovery, he brought Leks to Narcotics Anonym...2023-11-2825 min
The Truth About AddictionEp86. Dr. Evelyn Higgins, the connection between genetics and addictionIn today’s episode, we are honoured to feature Dr. Evelyn Higgins, the Chief Executive Officer and inventor behind the patent-pending panel at Wired For Addiction. Dr. Higgins is an international expert in the epidemiology of addiction, having dedicated nearly two decades to the research of the science of addiction recovery. Started out 35 years ago in pain management, she observed that patients were transitioning from pain medication dependency to addiction, as prescriptions and higher doses were dispensed effortlessly.Dr. Higgins, who was married to an alcoholic with multiple addictions, had a variety of experiences both on...2023-11-2452 min
The Truth About AddictionEp85. Mo Hassoun, manifesting self-discovery from Lebanon to AmericaStepping back into the world of Lebanon in the 1980s, Mo confronted haunting recollections of warzone, political tumult, safety concerns and abandonment. Mo suffered from emotional neglect and a sense of rejection throughout his childhood, due to his hardworking parents having to leave him to seek employment abroad. Consequently, it brought forward a lot of anger and behavioural issues. He harboured animosity with other kids who had parents. He even stabbed a kid at school who hit his brother. Mo poured his emotional instability into outlets such as boxing, rigorous training and regrettably, married women. The element o...2023-11-171h 06
The Truth About AddictionEp84. Angie, transformation of the chameleon and chronic relapserGrowing up in Rockhampton, Angie’s parents arrived in Australia on a boat in the late 1950s. Angie was always the ‘naughty kid’ who frequently found herself in the principal’s office facing suspension, while her excellling sisters were Dux of school. Negative attention is still better than none. She was often labelled as ‘the Devil’s Child’. Angie and her sisters confronted racism dominantly during their school years, which left her self-conscious and resentful of her background. ‘I didn’t accept the Wog side of me.’ She didn’t want to speak her native language, didn’t want to be near her sis...2023-11-1453 min
The Truth About AddictionEp83. Michael Haynes, Drug and Sex Addiction, and finding spiritualityMichael gave us a compelling insight into his arduous battles with multiple sex and drug addictions, from the young age of 15 leaving home to the darker side of the world, becoming a drug dealer and his attempts to change his belief system. Michael had a love affair with Meth. It reached a point where he didn’t do it for enjoyment anymore - ‘I shot Meth to die’.Michael emphasised his embedded beliefs from the ‘dark side’, which was where he stayed hidden for decades of being an addict. Yet he discovered the way out through fin...2023-11-1054 min
The Truth About AddictionEp82. Jamie Tall, proud woman of long-term recovery, breaking free from strip clubs, prostitution and drugsJamie grew up in an alcoholic household with a very violent father. She struggled to form connections and trust in others due to the turbulent environment she was in. Jamie found drugs during high school when she found a group of ‘friends’ who accepted her for her. Then her using progressed to harder drugs while attending college; exacerbated by sleepless nights, rave parties, and workplace theft. Jamie found herself entangled in the world of strip clubs, prostitution and escort services. She even went to jail after a prostitution tint in 2006. However, her ultimate rock bottom was in...2023-11-0355 min
The Truth About AddictionEp81. Skinny Vinny, homeless addict to Jackass dream came true“Sobriety is about having fun”Vinny describes his early journey as ‘normal teenage school life’: smoking weed, drinking, partying…, until he graduated to the harder stuff: Percocets, Oxycontin, heroin, cocaine… Vinny’s obsession with heroin intensified when he found himself abandoning everything else so he could spend all his time, money and energy on heroin. Transitioning from a life of a homeless addict to now rubbing shoulders with prominent names in Hollywood, Vinny stressed the importance of finding purpose and cultivating gratitude, which allowed him to maintain sobriety and a sense of happiness and contentment. As a child, he...2023-10-281h 02
The Truth About AddictionEp80. Acclaimed author Hannah Sward on past striping and MethThese are the words from her book cover ‘Strip: A Memoir” by Hannah Sward“Hannah Sward was abandoned by her mother and lived with her poet father on an island with no stores or cars. Kidnapped and molested by a stranger at age six, she grew up to be a stripper and a prostitute with a taste for crystal meth—which seemed to be a sure-fire way to lose weight—with stops along the way for silent gurus, sugar daddies, and drinking in the CVS bathroom before therapy sessions.” Hannah remembers stealing a chocolate bar at 6 years ol...2023-10-2155 min
The Truth About AddictionEp79. Andy Pho, self-mastery mindset practice with a sober mind‘I believe in having people rise to their potential as an artist’.Andy is an incredible tattoo artist with the most infectious smile and unwavering dedication to his art. His tattooing journey began in his early days growing up in the city of Brooklyn. When he finally discovered his true calling in tattooing, his passion only became stronger with time.Andy disclosed the habit of smoking at 16 years of age as his coping mechanism following the loss of his father. He recounted his experiences with alcohol, cannabis and mushrooms in the years after. As his skil...2023-10-1457 min
I Catch Killers with Gary JubelinDrugs, gangs and growing up the hard way: Ron Isherwood Pt.1Ron Isherwood was sent to prison for four attempted murders. He was 17. Growing up, his room was filled with rifles - all given to him by serious gangsters, kangaroo skins, gun belts with bullets, swords, machetes. His father was an “evil” man who once shot at Ron because he slammed the car door, and rewarded him for helping with robberies. Despite a deadly childhood filled with crime, drugs and underworld crims, Ron managed to find his way out the other side. Get episodes of I Catch Killers a week early and ad-free, as well as bonus...2023-10-081h 03
The Truth About AddictionEp78. Lesley Z, from alcoholism and heavy drugs to getting to the top of the fashion industry“I’m an alcoholic. I’m also addicted to anything that will take me out of my own feelings…”- LesleyLesley is now 42 years sober. She struggled with a profound sense of emptiness as a little girl, finding solace only while sitting under the white light in her living room. She drank herself to oblivion at the age of 13, then the substance abuse progressed rapidly to heavy drugs, whatever it took to ‘fill up’. She had all sorts of addiction: drink, food, sex, money, clothes, among others. It was never enough. Following a 6 months rehabilitation...2023-10-0739 min
The Truth About AddictionEp77. Nick Midgley’s self-love to sobriety and establishing Hope In HealthNick, Founder and Program Director at Hope In Health, has successfully maintained sobriety for over three years. After 22 years of struggle with heroin and meth, his achievement in recovery, self-care and professional accomplishment, are testament to his transformation. It started off as a 13-year-old boy doing intravenous heroin, then progressively, the drugs took control of his life. A former professional boxer, Nick is now a proud owner of a treatment centre in Northern NSW, dedicated to providing round-the-clock support for individuals seeking to establish a solid foundation and life skills devoid of substance use.Nick u...2023-09-3049 min
The Truth About AddictionEp76. Daniel Hearn, from hard knocks life to ‘Hard Knox Talks’, the success storyFebruary 12 2017, the day Daniel walked into a detox centre and never looked back. Daniel’s father was already in recovery when he was born, his mother worked in the addiction field for 40-plus years, so Daniel didn’t grow up surrounded by addiction. He just wanted to know what alcohol tasted like as a child, so at 13 years of age, he got himself a 6 pack of Budweiser and got blacked out drunk. When Daniel moved to the big city where substances were abundantly available, his life spiralled into a progressively darker trajectory. Daniel recounts the adversity he endur...2023-09-231h 08
Hard Knox Talks: Your Addiction PodcastRon Isherwood racked up 5 attempted murder charges by 17 years old. Now with 37 years sober here is here to tell his story. Must listen!Send us a textRon Isherwood was born into the Australian Mafia. By 16 he had already shot his first man. By 17 he racked up 5 attempted murder charges. This was normal for him. After breaking free from his Heroin addiction in 1986, he continued to engage in criminal activity until 2002 when he copped an 18 year bit for conspiring to import controlled substances. Today he is free from it all and is telling his story on the Hard Knox Talks Podcast!Check out Ron's website hereSupport the showWe've g...2023-09-1849 min
The Truth About AddictionEp75. Joel Papa, shooting at the police during drug-induced psychosisIn today’s episode, Joel from Victoria tells us about the destruction drugs brought onto him, how they transformed him into a different person and the bewildering actions during his drug-induced psychosis. Growing up in a good family, Joel found himself gravitating towards older companions when his parents split up at the age of 13. He started to experiment with drugs like marijuana and speed. The introduction to ice at 14 years old led to the escalation of criminal involvement. In and out of detention centres as a young boy, Joel ended up in prisons for an array of cha...2023-09-1620 min
The Truth About AddictionEp74. Brad Mcleod, Sober Motivation Podcaster shares his own journey to sobrietyMany would know Brad through the Sober Motivation/Sober is Cool community. Brad is always readily supporting people in their recovery journey through various platforms that he established since embarking on his own path to recovery in 2010.In this episode, Brad takes a seat on the opposite end of the table to recount his personal narrative encompassing his encounters with mental health challenges, and the interventions he underwent from a young age. Brad went through episodes of substance use and excessive alcohol consumption, which eventually resulted in jail time. At present, Brad serves as the d...2023-09-0956 min
The Truth About AddictionEp73. Chee, the scientist who nods off on meth during lab workBorn to an English mother and a Chinese Malaysian father, Chee always felt like the odd one out during her early childhood. Her teenage years were marred by both physical and emotional abuse by her parents, leading her to seek solace in substances like alcohol and marijuana, which she started using at the age of 14. Chee bravely opens up about her struggles with addiction, including sex, love, prescription drugs, and methamphetamine. Despite these challenges, Chee managed to achieve a Bachelor of Applied Science degree. However, maintaining her professional responsibilities as a scientist proved difficult, as her addiction f...2023-09-0228 min
The Truth About AddictionEp72. Jimmy Bindon, the guy who sold me my first shot of heroinToday’s episode is a personal narrative of Jimmy and I. In 1974, Jimmy sold me my first shot of heroin. It was a life-changing experience, but if it wasn’t Jimmy, It would have been someone else. I was just a junkie looking for a quick shot.Jimmy and I reflected on our pasts, the strides we have made in our life journeys, and the accomplishments we have achieved today. It’s been a rollercoaster ride for both of us. Nevertheless, through perseverance and determination, we both came out of the tunnels with our success stories. Welco...2023-08-2637 min
The Truth About AddictionEp71. Jack Ahearn, breaking ice addiction at 17 and running 100km in 24 hours to raise money for people in needResiding in Bali, Jack Ahearn, 25 years old, has abstained from substance use since May 2016 when he was just 17 years old. Jack exhibits unwavering dedication to his passion for sports, leveraging it to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Through his non-profit organisation, he has undertaken extensive runs covering hundreds of kilometres, raising funds to provide sustenance to disadvantaged individuals. Simultaneously, he strives to educate and raise awareness about mental health and drug addiction within the Indonesian community.Jack stands as an exemplar of clean and sober living, defying the notion that age...2023-08-1940 min
The Truth About AddictionEp70. Shaun Taylor, listening to recovery podcasts and home detox from iceInspired by Ron's podcast, Shaun underwent a transformative experience that led him to commit to a life of abstinence. Shaun candidly shares the arduous journey of detoxifying himself at home, reflecting on how this process has profoundly altered his outlook on life. His newfound sobriety has enabled him to embrace the role of a devoted and proud father to his children, emphasizing the importance of being present in their lives. During our conversation, being a couple of days away from two months clean, Shaun sheds light on the power of determination, resilience, and the potential for positive c...2023-08-1236 min
The Truth About AddictionEp69. Author Claire Hatwell, alcoholism and ‘My Not So Secret Recovery’Claire has been sober since 8th September 2016. In the past, she struggled with excessive drinking, often experiencing blackouts. Consuming three bottles of wine nightly, she held the misconception that alcoholism was confined to daytime drinking rather than nocturnal habits. To conceal her drinking problems, she went to great lengths, such as hiding her recycling bin and disposing of wine bottles discreetly at the dump.Fast forward to the present, Claire has undergone a remarkable transformation and now thrives as a contented mother of four. She takes immense pride in her dedication to promoting a sober lifestyle and...2023-08-0547 min
The Truth About AddictionEp68. Randal Lyons, The Sober Shaman - Spiritual Practices for Addiction RecoveryRandal spent his childhood in New York City. When he moved to LA in his early twenties, that was when the drugs hit high gear.Randal shares his journey in finding spirituality and the disillusion of identity - who am I? Through learning the traditional Chinese teachings, Randal found the connection, love and ‘the gift’ he was searching for. “We have to go through these trials and tribulations to learn who we are.”Randal now lives in Nova Scotia, Canada with his wife and two affectionate Siamese cats. You will find one sitting lovingly...2023-07-291h 00
The Truth About AddictionEp67. Sober Junkie, the tenacious motivator and multifaceted musicianA proud Indigenous American man, Sober Junkie, a brilliant musician and social media influencer with a strong following, has been passionately spreading inspiration and motivation about recovery, positivity and sober living. ‘These young guys need to hear from us dinosaurs.’SJ opens up about his family’s generational addiction and his first encounter with addiction through painkillers, then the subsequent substance abuse, particularly heroin. Through the rooms of A.A., he found his music producer and sponsor, leading him towards recovery and a new purpose in life. Today, Sober Junkie uses his platform to inspi...2023-07-2232 min
The Truth About AddictionEp66. Andrew Hamilton, from magic mushroom supplier to laughter dispenserAndrew has found his purpose in life: to make people laugh. From a young man who discovered magic mushrooms in Thailand, Andrew had managed to become a large-scale supplier of mushrooms in Sydney, and later on, acid, MDMA, cocaine and ketamine. He was the one-stop shop for all kinds of party drugs. When his house got raided in 2021, it forced him to sober up during his prison sentence. The drugs weren’t there to mask his emotions. “I felt like shit’” He had to think of alternative ways to seek happiness, without the drugs. He found comedy.Andr...2023-07-1551 min
The Truth About AddictionEp65. Dan Brown, adrenaline missile on waves and wild espresso mix wholesaler on landDaniel Brown, AKA Mullet Lord, knew that he was an alcoholic. ‘I believe I was born with this illness.’ Next month, July 2023, will mark his 9 years sober. Dan talks about the ups and downs of recovery. When the family moved to the beach at 2 years of age, Dan developed a perpetual love for the ocean. He was inseparable from the water and had a dream of being a pro surfer. At his 16 birthday, Dan found alcohol. His alcoholism progressed when he could go out clubbing at 18. From 19-24, his life declined rapidly with many dear death experiences during...2023-07-0853 min
The Truth About AddictionEp64. Todd Innis, positive wellbeing and the ‘growth’ mindsetTodd grew up in Newcastle footies town, where everyone’s dreams and life revolved around the sport. When things got tough, when things were down, Todd turned to footies. His addiction didn’t start until late teenage years after he started to associate with the wrong crowd. Losing his rugby league dream and facing legal troubles, Todd spiralled deeper into his addiction, causing strain on his financial and family life.Todd talks about his dream and his lightbulb moment, the 21 days challenge to kick himself off old habits, and his determination to stay clean and live clean. Todd...2023-07-0149 min
The Truth About AddictionEp63. Kerrie Atherton, ‘Stories of HOPE’ and the ‘victor’ mentality“I lived in a victim mentality for so many years that today, I have a victor mentality.”Kerrie Atherton, Founder of ‘EMPOWER Life Solutions’ and Stories of HOPE’, dedicates her life to helping people and sharing stories of HOPE. Kerrie is 42 years in recovery. Getting clean at an early age of 18, it wasn’t an easy journey, but one that was absolutely rewarding. Kerrie’s childhood was traumatic, dealing with long running alcoholism in the family. Kerrie talked about sexual abuse, being in depression at the age of 13, domestic violence, suicide planning, and the fact that she carried the gu...2023-06-241h 02
The Truth About AddictionEp62. Nathan Paddison, surviving 9 stab wounds and the ensuing spiritual awakeningGrowing up in Sydney West, Nathan was surrounded by drugs and criminals. At a young age, he idolised and longed for the lifestyle where everyone else had all the ‘good stuff’. Nathan got into drugs and gangs by the age of 15. He found that while using, he didn’t care about anyone or anything. He would get extremely violent and get involved in many fights. Nathan ultimately spent 12 years in total in maximum security prisons, where at one point, he was stabbed 9 times and survived the ordeal.Nathan fell in love with painting during his incarceration. He finall...2023-06-171h 02
The Truth About AddictionEp61. Sonya Johnson, the journey to finding a purpose in past pain and traumasSonya, in her young world, had the perfect life until her father left when she was 8 years old. Sonya’s mother was a functioning alcoholic. Sadly, her mother got involved with another heavy alcoholic, although Sonya was happy to find love from a ‘father’ that she had been craving for. Her step father gave her everything she asked for, including cigarettes and ecstasy. She finally understood that he was doing so in order to groom her. Sonya recounts her story of experiencing traumas as a teenager, being sexually abused by her step-father, getting pregnant, having an abortion and the...2023-06-101h 10
The Truth About AddictionEp60. Benjamin Lerner, sobriety and the recovery journey through lyrical rapBenjamin Lerner is a Vermont-based Composer, Writer, Radio Host, and Recovery Advocate. With music and words run in the family, Benjamin is a classical piano prodigy, with an outstanding flow of lyrical rap. ‘I came from privileged.’ - Benjamin. He was a smart kid, aced his papers easily and knew what he wanted in life. Until the alcohol caught up. With heavy alcoholism, drugs use, dropping out of schools and multiple car crashes under the influence, Benjamin had been to multiple rehabs and was introduced to meetings. He believes that if his mum wasn’t in recovery, he woul...2023-06-021h 21
The Truth About AddictionEp59. Caroline Beidler, 13 years in addiction recovery, author and recovery advocateCaroline has a great message in her book Downstairs Church: Finding Hope in The Grit of Addiction and Trauma Recovery. Not an ordinary story of a woman finding recovery, Caroline has gone through many significant traumas in life. She found alcohol and drugs and fell in love with the new ways of ‘escapism’. When Caroline first attended meetings, she felt connected with other people’s stories and a sense of belonging. Caroline started her recovery journey at 28 years of age, she is now 41, married, with a partner who is a scientist and beautiful twin babies. With 20 years in lead...2023-05-2757 min
The Truth About AddictionEp58. Prisons as Leonard’s training ground, addiction recovery is now what he teachesLeonard left school in year 7. He couldn’t read or write at that stage. He was getting in and out of prison as a teenager and picked up his first drugs in between those sentences. As the addiction got serious, his crime got serious too. Leonard had been in A, D and H Division at Pentridge, Bendigo, Ballarat, Dhurringile and various other Correctional Centres, but the worst prison for him is ‘the prison of the mind’. His recovery journey began when Leonard was first introduced to meetings in 1989. Leonard went through multiple relapses, and in the final stint o...2023-05-2049 min
The Truth About AddictionEp57. Johnny Lewis, the man with the golden heart and the mind of a boxing geniusJohnny Lewis is well known as Australia’s greatest fight trainer, who has trained six World Boxing Champions. To me, he is a good old family friend that I have known forever since my childhood days. ‘I’m not a toughie, I’m a sook.’ - Johnny LewisJohn grew up in Erskineville, with the Erskineville Oval being his proud backyard. John never has a bad thing to say about anything. His intention is always to help, and that’s what he’s been doing his whole life, being a good friend, good trainer, good neighbour, great humanitarian a...2023-05-1342 min
The Truth About AddictionEp56. Rhys takes his tattoo addiction to next level, where Little Tokyo The Temple of Art was bornOn today’s episode, I had a really good chat with my friend and tattooist, Rhys Gordon, whom I have known for nearly 30 years. We discussed tattoos, our addiction in tattoos and our ‘beginnings’ before tattoos became the ‘normal’ form of self expression. I had a chance to extensively narrate my story of the journey to getting my bodysuit done. Tattoos actually opened up doors for me to meet many good people, people that have my complete respect and kept as friends in my heart. We discussed the different eras of tattoos, the tradition and modern tatto...2023-05-061h 35
The Truth About AddictionEp55. Lucky Rich, the most tattooed man, with his tattoos as representation of his commitment to recoveryLucky Diamond Rich is well known as the most tattooed person on earth. This street artist, performer and Guinness World Records holder is one of the most recognisable person you ever come across. Lucky, an Indigenous Australian man, grew up around domestic violence. When a community circus group went to his school in West End, Brisbane to teach basic circus skills, he took to it like a duck to water. Lucky’s escapism was through arts and circus performing. Lucky never discovered substances until the legal age of 18, when he found alcohol to be ‘the best thing e...2023-04-2956 min
The Truth About AddictionEp54. Barrister Mary Keaney, the passionate human rights advocateMary remembers her father as the most dedicated, passionate doctor and a loving father. When her father went to AA to stop the drinking, Mary decided that she would do the same, stop drinking and partying as well. In her early 20s, Mary dreamt of being a lawyer, so here she is today, an absolutely beautiful, intelligent, thriving strong woman who is a highly respected barrister. She is also a devoted mental health and human rights advocate. Mary talks about her childhood, her family, about working on herself, finding spirituality and her healing journey, and most of a...2023-04-221h 14
The Truth About AddictionEp53. Danny, under the influence of heroin, fell asleep on the job driving the fire truck‘Everybody in the fire brigade knew I was a junkie’. Dan Resnick disclosed his early days as a fire fighter who was always nodding off on heroin. From the age of 15, Dan was smoking pot everyday, then gradually acid and heroin were introduced into his life. Heroin was his love, and so ‘that started off his journey as a junkie’.Dan shares some funny stories on his multiple detox attempts, doctor shopping for prescription drugs, and the one time when he was beguiled into being the voluntarily unpaid/unsuspected international drug mule. Dan is 35 years clean tod2023-04-151h 15
The Truth About AddictionEp52. Former Black Power gang leader Phil Paikea helps men to live a violence free lifeFormer Black Power president Phil Paikea was born in a little country town, Helensville, when ‘respect was paramount’. His parents were hard working, they didn’t even have a Tv, life was hard, and there were a lot of domestic violence. Phil ran away from home at 16 years old and was introduced to alcohol, drugs and gang life. Phil now works to help other men living a violence free life. He is the Lead Facilitator of Safe Man Safe Family, and plays a vital role in It’s Not Ok campaigne and White Ribbon ride, promoting healthy masculini...2023-04-0845 min
The Truth About AddictionEp51. Michelle, 44 years clean, heroin addiction and international drug smugglingI met Michelle in 1982. Michelle was one of the founding members of recovery in Australia. She got clean in February 1979, after the love of her life, heroin, gave up on her. She first started using heroin at 12 years of age. At 14 years old, she left school. By the age of 15, young, bold and fearless, Michelle left Australia heading to South East Asia, where the best heroin was, because she wanted to just live in an opium den and use everyday for the rest of her life. That was her heaven.Michelle articulately narrates her very colourful life...2023-04-0150 min
The Truth About AddictionEp50. Recording artist Logan Bruce defeated his addiction with his prized guitarLogan had a perfect childhood. He excelled at baseball, though was really shy. When Logan first experienced his first drink, he felt like it took away the insecurity. Alcohol became the solution to his social life. As his alcoholism exasperated, Logan lost his baseball and college scholarships.Logan wrote his very first song during his stay at a treatment centre, and performed it for the first time in front of the other recovering addicts. His rock bottom moment was when he was sitting outside a pawn shop contemplating selling his last valued possession, his guitar. But he...2023-03-241h 09
The Truth About AddictionEp49. Richard Smith, Founder of Hader Clinics, 37 years clean and soberRichard has always made good use of his entrepreneurial skills since his younger years. Together with his brother, they built a chain of successful car care centres that were later sold on to become Ultratune. Following 17 years of active addiction, Richard has stayed substance free from November 1985 He has gone through AA, NA and Al-anon. ‘First 90 days I did 210 meetings. Next 2 years, I did 2 meetings a day.’ Richard established the first Hader Clinic in 1997, branching out to Queensland and overseas, which is now known as the most respected private rehabilitation centres in Australia. http://www.richar...2023-03-1743 min
The Truth About AddictionEp48. Darcy Cogdale, the fitness and routine addictDarcy experienced bullying throughout school and struggled with self image. The only kids that didn’t judge him were the ones that were up to no good, so he hung out with the wrong crowd. As a young man, Darcy was doing coke everyday and eventually was selling to keep his habits. During his time in Lotus Glen Correctional Centre for drugs and assault charges, Darcy started to focus on fitness. It helped him keep up a structured routine, keep busy, fit, healthy and provided mental clarity. When he got out, Darcy kept thriving in the fitness industry. He is...2023-03-101h 08
The Truth About AddictionEp.47 Shane Cuthbert, entrepreneur, philanthropist and advocateShane is a passionate motivational speaker and advocate for mental health, human rights and youth. Shane uses his lived experience to help people get through their life, with regular contributions to social innovation projects and volunteer in many causes and fundraising events. Shane also wrote a wide range of books, donating one hundred perfect of all proceeds to charity. Shane shares his past struggles in his early years, life as a drummer, the addiction, prison times and sexual abuse in prison.Today Shane is completing a double law and psychological degree in order to focus o...2023-03-031h 05
The Truth About AddictionEp.46 Anthony, 14 years success in recovery and Awakened Lifestyles coaching businessAnthony, together with his partner Eve, founded Awakened Lifestyles to help people find their sense of purpose, their inner peace and balance in life, in order to lead a happy and successful life. Anthony struggled through his teenage years with drugs addiction, and later on, obesity, while battling a constant feeling of ‘not enough’. Anthony has coached thousands of people in nutrition & mindset and now leads his own company, Awakened Lifestyles, to help High Achievers find mental peace and inner fulfilment without giving up external success.Anthony now stands 14 years clean and sober, we hope that...2023-02-2451 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.45 Karen Casey, a pioneer for women recovery, 46 years of sobrietyKaren Casey, a best-selling author. Her first book, ‘Each Day A New Beginning’ sold over 4 million copies and is dedicated to helping women suffering with addictions.At 13 years of age, Karen got a glass of whiskey and a coke, where she found the longing comfort that she couldn’t find within her family. Karen talked about her first marriage with another alcoholic, the ‘spiritual intervention’ when she was about to commit suicide, the turning point when she first walked into an Al Anons meeting. Karen is so funny, so honest and raw in her story telling. 2023-02-171h 19
The Truth About AddictionEp.44 Danny, Encapsulator of hope and dreamsDanny Shannon, Founder of Encapsulator, created the business as a mean for individuals to record and track their dreams, their hope, their progress through life, to emphasise self awareness and observe their own transformations. When Danny picked up heroin at 16 years of age, he never missed a day for the next 17 years. Danny is now 13 years clean. He has a great message about recovery, about not giving up, and the power of positivity. 2023-02-1047 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.43 Dan, Walkabout Warriors, healing from helping others healDaniel, Founder of Walkabout Warriors, has been proudly mentoring youth since 2017 using his own experience and passion in fitness and art therapy. Dan believes that art is emotional, and that emotions are not to be suppressed. He is teaching kids to deal with their emotions, understanding purpose to connect to themselves and their culture. Dan came from a background of childhood trauma, sexual abuse and drug uses. A proud man of Aboriginal heritage from the ‘Kamilaroi’ tribe and strong mental health advocate, Dan shares his story on his own inspirational healing journey. Check out Dan’s wonder...2023-02-041h 15
The Stick Up with Russell ManserRon Isherwood's Dad Shot at Him for Slamming the Car DoorInfamous gangster Ron Isherwood grew up with the Painters and Dockers mob in 70's Australia in a household where crime was life and violence was normal. Brutality and addiction became his world and prison was inevitable. Russell chats to Ron about how he escaped death many times and how he now helps others to overcome their addictions.
Founder of www.thevoiceofasurvivor.com
Follow Russell on Instagram here and on TikTok here
Follow Ron on Instagram here
Get in touch with Ron at The Truth About AddictionSee omny.fm...2023-01-231h 14
The Truth About AddictionEp.42 Joe Williams, alcohol abuse during successful sporting career and sobriety todayJoe Williams is well known as an elite sportsman who played rugby league and was a professional boxer. He is even a better human being. The Joe we talk to in this episode is a proud Wiradjuri/Wolgalu, First Nationals Aboriginal man, who supports the community in their mental wellbeing. Joe discusses the effect of substance abuse in his past and his journey to sobriety. Joe is 17 years sober. Follow Joe’s inspirational works on Instagram: @joewilliams_tew2023-01-2155 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.41 Georgina 26 years clean with a heart of goldGeorgina got clean in the room of Narcotics Anonymous. All her knowledge on recovery comes from the 12 steps program. Growing up, there were a lot of trauma, violence and alcohol around.When Georgina’s father passed away at the age of 9, her mother couldn’t cope. Georgina took over the household, became a little adult and ran the house. As soon as her mother got together with her stepfather, he started to groom her, and the sexual abuse began at age 11, continuing on for another 8 years. She found a way to escape through substances, with the following year...2023-01-1547 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.40 Dan’s motto ‘Not one, not ever’Dan has done more in the past 3 years of being clean, than the previous 22 years of using. Dan was already addicted to heroin by the time he left high school. His drug addiction escalated tremendously after his brother’s passing. Dan overdosed 13 times, and each time, went straight to using from getting discharged in hospital. He didn’t care. He lost all hope. He just wanted to die. After 7 attempts of rehab, Dan got clean and stayed clean. He is now married, living in the Sunshine Coast, competed in his first body building competition, put together the first...2023-01-0740 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.39 Robert, 42 years clean since the age of 1842 years free from all drugs, Robert has stayed clean since 18 years of age. His drug use started since he was a baby, when his mum used to put a quarter of a Valium into his milk bottle so he could stay asleep for a long time. Both Dad and Grandad were alcoholics, he came from a family with a history of alcohol and drug abuse. He never learnt to have a proper relationship with anybody as a young man, he only learnt to take what you could get. Robert talks about his turning points and the ‘suggested thi...2022-12-3137 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.38 Allan never gave up in his addiction recoveryAllan grew up in a rough neighbourhood in Melbourne. He hated school and used to have a drink before school to ‘take the edge off’. For him it started with the drinks, and the disease of addiction progressed over his teenage years to drugs: pot, speed, acid, mushroom, heroin, and finally prescription drugs. Allan tells his story of getting clean, the multiple relapses, the second surrender (spiritual awakening), and now at 23 years clean, a proud father and husband who has many wise words and experiences. Today Allan helps other people in recovery and reaps the rewards. 2022-12-231h 05
The Truth About AddictionEp.37 Jye is now a winner, recovering from gambling addictionJye had been gambling hard for 16 years. Today, 34 years of age, he is 171 days clean from all substances and gambling, doing an amazing job as a father and a human being.Growing up in housing commission as a young child, Jye was surrounded by drugs and bad habits, so he was driven to work hard ‘to get out of there’. He was an angry kid at school, got through many fights as a teenager and a young man, and partied hard for a long time. At 18, he discovered gambling. That got hold of him quickly and relentlessly. At o...2022-12-171h 03
The Truth About AddictionEp.36 Jesse Randall, Sailing In Space band and helping his brother through addictionGrowing up watching his older brother Dylan play for bands in clubs, Jesse was envious and wanted to do music too, so he picked up the piano at 12 years of age, learnt to play and started off a tremendous passion in music. Jesse later on joined his brother Dylan forming their band Sailing In Space, producing out of this world music. Jesse talks about their band, the devotion and hardship they experienced, and supporting his brother Dylan getting through his addiction. Their latest song ’Breather’ is a reminder to come back to the most simple motions of life...2022-12-1045 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.35 Claudia, drugs, modelling career and seeking helpClaudia shares her story of a young child who ‘didn’t belong in the world’. Food and exercise were her first addiction before she found the substances. Claudia experienced sexual trauma at 8 years old, and by 12, had her first drink. From heavy drinking, constant bullies in high school, quick progression to party drugs, then prescription drugs, she finally put her hand up for help. 5 and a half months clean today, Claudia is back on her feet strong, perceptive and vigilant on her recovery. 2022-12-0357 min
The Truth About AddictionEp34. Hollie, drugs, stripping, sex work and getting cleanHollie grew up in a ‘rough space’. She always felt like she was alone throughout her childhood and adult life. Hanging out with the wrong crowd, surviving toxic relationships, a lot of bad things happened when she was under the influence, as she was desperately trying to numb herself with drugs. Hollie is now 16 months clean and striving to be a DV counsellor. 2022-11-2538 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.33 Robyn King, musician to heroin addictionRobyn has a total of 31 years clean time with multiple relapses. When I met her, she was a beautiful, talented young lady ,always with a guitar by her side. By 18 years of age, Robyn was a ‘hard core’ heroin user. Her life was focused on providing for the habit.Today, Robyn is 6 years and 2 weeks clean. She released an album called ‘First’ on SoundCloud, and is working on another album. Listen to her story on her past struggles, on the many detoxes and rehabilitation, and the sad loss of her eldest daughter.2022-11-191h 07
The Truth About AddictionEp.32 Mark W, broken child to 14 years in recoveryGrowing up in Frankston Victoria in a ‘broken home’, Mark thought he was the poison that ruined the good things in life. He didn’t know how to talk about it as a kid, so started to look for things outside of himself to change the way he felt. Mark found it in crime. As Mark got older, he couldn’t stop looking for the feel-goods. It progressed with alcohol, drugs, violence, women etc… Mark stayed clean since his very first meeting in Narcotics Anonymous in 2008. He is now 14 years in recovery.2022-11-1251 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.31 Mikaela struggled to get clean since 17, now 10 months cleanMikaela grew up in Melbourne in an area where ‘it was common to start drinking at an early age’. As a 12 year old, Mikaela experienced uncontrollable drinking and mostly struggled in school. She was frustrated, angry, lost and unmanageable. She barely finished year 9.Mikaela first went to rehab at the age of 17 and was in and out of Narcotics Anonymous the last 10 years, though never worked the program during that time. She even lost her job as a nurse for using while at work. Now at 10 months clean, Mikaela dreams of being able to help people in addic...2022-11-0548 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.30 Donna on her recovery journey and having a son who is also a recovering addictDonna started using as a young child, and for a very long time she thought it was normal from a social aspect. In her late teenage years, Donna started to notice that her using was getting heavy, she was always the last to leave, the one to always turn up with drugs and never wanted it to end. There were many breakdowns in her relationships with others and she felt her self esteem was slipping away. Donna got married, though sadly used throughout her pregnancy, and during the first 9 years of her son’s life. She attended var...2022-10-2957 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.29 Glen’s search for addiction recoveryGlen grew up in Melbourne in a ‘fairly’ normal family environment. He was introduced to drugs as early as 12 years old, then he started using heroin and was in and out of prison over the next 10 years. In 2004, Glen ended up in rehab, but he was lost without support and a program to work on. Within a couple of months, he was back in the habit and back to jail. While he was in jail, Glen’s sister began her recovery journey and became clean; she used to come and ‘carried the message’ during her visits. Glen witnessed w...2022-10-2255 min
The Truth About AddictionEp 28. My favourite daughter, Haley (Just kidding)From her own words, Hales and her twin sister were ‘created during active addiction by dysfunctional addicts’. Hales’ mother and I met in rehab, where she was born and spent her first couple of early years of life. Hales knew about drugs and addiction more than any other kids at her age, growing up surrounded by recovering addicts, attended NA meetings on a regular basis and felt that as a little child, was ‘comfortable’ being where she was, amongst the chaos.Coming up to 15 years clean, listen to Haley tell the story of her turning points, and how she ca...2022-10-151h 00
The Truth About AddictionEp.27 Dylan, Sailing In Space band and battle with addictionDylan, from the band Sailing In Space at Sunshine Coast, Qld. When Dylan’s father passed away at 9 years of age, he did not cope. He lived in made up fantasies to deal with reality and acted out on his addictive tendency. He struggled with self worth and lacked motivation to bring himself and his music out there. On the day of doing our podcast, Dylan was 29 days clean. Thing were changing rapidly right after he started on his recovery journey, in the most positive lights. Dylan loves his only brother dearly. Together they have done...2022-10-0757 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.26 Chris Sellers, Sobriety and ArtChris’ artworks are unique, provoking and powerful, with a focus on existentialism. The purpose is to articulate feelings through visual, so when he felt something, he put it on canvas. As he was building his works, he shifted to more unconventional themes such as substance abuse, male depression state of mind… Chris started drinking at the age of 15 and found that “alcohol was the answer to all problems”. He relied heavily on alcohol as the solution to anything he felt lacking at the time. He couldn’t see life without alcohol. During his second DIY, he was sent...2022-10-0149 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.25 Eleanor, stripping, drugs and getting cleanEleanor believes that she was suffering from the disease of addiction before she even started using drugs. She hated the fact that her parents were alcoholics, so when she turned 18 ,she didn’t drink. She went to university, got a good job, got on with life like a ‘normal’ kid, but still felt depressed, alone, and “like it’s just never enough”.Started drinking at the age of 20, she also started stripping. Eleanor was introduced to drugs then, and within a couple of months, she knew she was an addict. She couldn’t stop. She was always struggling wit...2022-09-2435 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.24 Beats from The Get Down Podcast, 10 years drugs free and 109 days sober from alcohol109 days sober from alcohol on the day of recording, this is the first time Beats shares his story of addiction on a public platform, as he believes in passing on the message to help people. Beats talks about family, experiencing drugs in school, being a functioning ‘junkie’, going to university and his light bulb moment. Beats is now a happy, wonderful family man, with an immense passion to help others through his disability and youth support work, while organising fund-raising events for men with alcohol problem. @The_Get_Down_Podcast_Au2022-09-171h 43
The Truth About AddictionEp. 23 Brett, proud Indigenous man carrying the message of recoveryBrett, a proud Wakka Wakka man from the majestic Bunya Mountains, South Burnett region. When Brett first went to a Narcotics Anonymous meeting, he was the only Indigenous there. That was Friday night, 1/1/1999. Now over 23 years clean, Brett still attends at least 2 meetings a week to share his story and his gains, to make sure other recovering addicts understand and practice ‘the message’. 2022-09-141h 06
The Truth About AddictionEp.22 JJ from dysfunctional upbringing to recovery coachJJ grew up in a dysfunctional home, and from that dysfunctional family, he learnt to survive life. Most of his memories are from traumatic events. He had been through foster homes and various institutions. Wise, knowledgeable and inspirational, JJ is now a recovery coach helping people through their addiction and recovery journey. 2022-09-101h 11
The Truth About AddictionEp.21 John Killick, The Pen is mightier than the GunJohn Killick made international headlines in 1999 when he escaped from Sydney’s Silverwater Jail by a helicopter. Our podcast today focuses on the John Killick today, the Author, the human being, the guy that mentors children and gives back to people in and out of prison. John talks about the failing system, the traditions, past heavy gambling addiction, to supporting current and ex-prisoners, and of course his favourite bread and butter pudding. 2022-09-071h 09
The Truth About AddictionEp.20 Jess, proudly ADHD, fierce advocate for addiction and mental healthJess Kennedy, 2 years clean, a tenacious, passionate advocate for addiction recovery and mental health from Melbourne. Jess was a black-out drunk started from the young age of 10 and progressively went through the hard use of both street and prescription drugs over the next 20 plus years. She was diagnosed with ADHD and bipolar.Jess is now a lived experience peer worker, who works in a drop in clinic that supports people through their addiction, recovery and mental health. #rethinkaddiction 2022-09-0359 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.19 Russell Manser - the story of The Voice of A Survivor“I used to see bank robbers and criminals coming home from jails, and they were treated like war heroes.. They were the sort of blokes I looked up to.” Russell grew up in Western Sydney and spent a total of 23 years in various jails in NSW, NT and QLD. Russell is a survivor of institutional child sexual abuse. He carried the heavy secret for 30 years before finding the courage to talk about his experiences, to speak to other prisoners and support the people that had similar abuses. While he was in prison, he had a dream, a visio...2022-08-311h 08
The Truth About AddictionEp.18 TiktokGarry Hope Dealer Not Dope Dealer'I'm a hope dealer, not a dope dealer.' - Gary, who served multiple sentences for drug charges, shares his recovery and redemption story to help youth staying off the path he walked earlier in life. With over 50K followers on TikTok, known as TiktokGarry, he is sharing his story on a daily basis, passing on the message and is inspiring many to stay drugs and crime free. ‘I’m always a criminal, but I just don’t do crimes anymore. I use the same energy towards my current work.’2022-08-271h 05
The Truth About AddictionEp.17 Dean King talks about the road to addiction recovery, redemption and King Hit book.Dean King, author of the highly acclaimed book King Hit, was born in Balmain, Sydney to alcoholic parents. In and out of boys’ homes and at the age of 14, Dean was put in a maximum security prison charged for murder.In this chat, Dean talks about his moment of ‘spiritual awakening’, and how addiction recovery has brought so much changes, so much positive influences to his life and the people around him. ‘If I was going to go down this road of recovery, I was going to have a quality of life. I was going to make things wo...2022-08-201h 12
The Truth About AddictionEp.16 Addiction and facing your fearsThe fears you have to face when you first realise that you have a problem with the disease of addiction. For me, it was the fear of the unknowns. Fear of going to a detox center, fear of judgement, fear of having to tell people that I am an addict, fear of loss… Don’t be ashamed to ask for help. If you could do it on your own, you could have done it by now. So please, reach out. 2022-08-1816 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.15 Jeffrey Morgan, gratitude and positive thinkingJeffrey Morgan, mental health and wellbeing coach. Jeffrey grew up in the notoriously disadvantaged suburb of Redfern NSW, where crime rates and poor mental health were high. Jeffrey left home at the age of 12, overcame many adversities in the early days including losing his parents, brother and sister. Listen to Jeffrey underline the importance of gratitude and positive thinking, ‘tap into being grateful for what you have, rather than what you don’t have.’ His story, wisdom and strong messages are exceptional.Follow Jeffrey at www.jeffreymorgan.com.au 2022-08-171h 04
The Truth About AddictionEp.14 Mario my spiritual advisorMeet Mario, my spiritual advisor for the last 36 and a half years. Mario has always been there for me, through many of life obstacles, through my divorce, jail time and when I was in the middle of losing everything. He provided tremendous source of guidance and strength, and all in all, simply a very loyal friend.2022-08-1354 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.13 Jenna on her passion for yoga practice, love and mental health struggles.Jenna comes from Manchester, UK, in a family of both mum and dad being heavy drinkers. One day she had a burning desire to leave, so she booked a one way ticket to Australia, where she discovered Yoga practice and started on her spiritual journey of inner peace and self discovery. Jenna’s message is strong. ‘Learn to cope, or fall victim to life’s struggles’. She chose the former. Jenna sets her mission as to help other people get through life’s struggles, through her own life experience, down to earth yoga training/teaching and holistic health coac...2022-08-1049 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.12 Broc the Aboriginal man who rewrote his storyBroc Martin has an incredible story to tell. Story of redemption, story of recovery and story of being a good human being. An Aboriginal man descendant from the Punthamara Mithika people (now Southwest Queensland), Broc was disconnected from his culture as a young boy through the disease of addiction. He went through the criminal justice system early, and was looking up to the wrong people in the system. Then he met Ron. The seeds were planted. Broc now works in Pormpuraaw as an alcohol and drug counsellor and well-being coach, helping men to heal trauma guided by a...2022-08-0645 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.11 Lara on her violent childhood and early exposure to drugs, no filterWarning: Distressing contents regarding sexual and emotional abuseLara grew up in a family of Catholics. From the frequent beatings from her volatile father to the severe canings by the nuns at school as a young girl, Lara experienced fear and terror throughout her early childhood. She started smoking at 9 years of age, was sent to youth centres at 12 and was in prison by 18.Listen to her very candid, honest story of ‘The crazy junkie Lara’ to now, having a Diploma in Community Welfare, the Lara that’s giving back and helping others. “Whatever your stor...2022-08-0351 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.10 Wayne's story on heroin addiction and the turning points in his lifeGrowing up with a violent father, Wayne went through a childhood of fear, rebellion and crime. He wasn’t interested in school, desperately wanted to fit in, so he used drugs at a very young age. Over the years, Wayne and I have supported each other through our lowest points. I remember detoxing on his floor after a relapse 36 and a half years ago, while his eldest daughter was being born. Today, 38 years clean, he works in drugs and alcohol to help people with substance abuse. He is a loving father to four beautiful daughters. 2022-07-3040 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.9 Recovery journey of Mark after 26 years in active addictionMark was in active addiction for 26 years, using anything he could get his hands on. After multiple relapses, losing his wife and beautiful children, today he is clean and sober for 11 years 3 months. Mark works in a private rehabilitation centre helping people in all walks of life breaking negative habits. As a single father, Mark looked after his children when they moved in with him the same year he got clean. He is an amazing father and human being. Thank you Mark, you are an inspiration. 2022-07-2752 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.8 Jack Tout tells his story of getting clean at 17 years of ageJack, 17 years old and 55 days clean on the day of recording. Jack had years of drugs use before, in his own words, got sick of being 'zombified'. He is now a happy young man who is grateful for his loving and supportive family. Jack's back!2022-07-2331 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.7 David Obeda from The Felon Show tells us his story and visionDavid tells us story of life before, during and after prison, and the remarkable vision he has for his current work @the_felon_show. David is now a man of God. He believes in rehabilitation and redemption by forming a movement through his stories at The Felon Show. "Never ever let the world talks you out of your vision" - David. 2022-07-1651 min
The Truth About AddictionEp.6 Lyle discusses the importance of continuing to treat the addiction after getting clean.Lyle talks about how broken he was during his using days and finding a will to get clean. "The pain of using was so great, that getting clean was going to be easier."It was important to get clean, but then you have to continue to treat the addiction. Addiction is a thinking problem. If it was just a 'drug' problem, once you stop using it, wouldn't it be just fine? NO, you have to keep treating it, the way you think. When you stop using, that's when the game begins.2022-07-0945 min
The Truth About AddictionEp5. Edan McGovern's story as a child with a parent in active addictionEdan shares her story growing up with a father who was in active addiction most of his life. Edan knew that he was 'painstakingly in love with being her dad', though he could not get away from his addiction. He is no longer here, "The thing that happens when you have, especially an addict parent is, you grieve them a long time before they go." - Edan. 2022-07-0238 min
The Truth About AddictionEp4. Doug ex bank robber and recovering heroin addictFrom a life of crime, Doug ex bank robber and recovering heroin addict, shares his story of redemption and recovery. "My worst days in recovery are much better than my best days using" - Doug. 2022-06-2541 min
The Truth About AddictionEp3. Mick Tout speaks as a parent of a recovering addictMick shares his story on the devastating effect having his teenage son using, how it affected everyone in the family. Speaking as a parent, he shares his heartache, distress and frustration when his son was using, and now, being a recovering addict, the moments of joy and relief of having his son back.2022-06-1838 min
The Truth About AddictionEp2. Rick Grossman Australian Rock Icon talks about overcoming heroin addictionRick Grossman talks about his recovery from heroin addiction days. As the bass guitarist for the iconic bands Divinyls and Hoodoo Gurus, he tells us the story of hiding heroin in cassette players while on tours and his past struggle to stay drug free. Rick since then performed with other Australian bands: Matt Finish, Ghostwriters, Persian Rugs, The Kelly Gang and Men at Work, and has been inducted in ARIA Hall Of Fame in 2006 and 2007. He is a wonderful husband, lecturer, counsellor. He is passionate on helping others in their recovery from addiction, and supporting aspiring songwriters to fulfill...2022-06-0750 min