2024 British Podcast Award Winner & 2025 Radio Academy Award Nominated Podcast

Women Episodes

Addiction and recovery often intersect with the broader issues of violence against women and girls, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities faced by women in these situations. This category explores the systemic, societal, and personal factors that link gender-based violence and substance use, offering a space for dialogue and understanding. Episodes feature stories of survivors who have navigated addiction while overcoming the trauma of abuse, along with expert insights into the role of trauma-informed care in recovery. By addressing these sensitive but vital topics, the podcast shines a light on the importance of tailored support for women affected by violence, breaking the cycle of stigma and silence.

The experiences of women navigating addiction, recovery, and societal stigma are deeply personal and often shaped by unique challenges. This category also focuses on the lived realities of women, including those engaged in sex work and those who have survived sexual violence. Episodes provide a platform for women to share their stories, highlighting the resilience and strength required to heal. Discussions explore the intersection of trauma, exploitation, and addiction, while also addressing the systemic barriers women face in accessing support. With a focus on empathy and advocacy, this category aims to empower women and promote understanding of the gendered dimensions of addiction and recovery.
Nov. 6, 2025

Katie Price & Kerry Katona: Cocaine Addiction, Recovery, Motherhood and Surviving Fame

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma , Katie Price and Kerry Katona sit down for a raw, unfiltered conversation about cocaine addiction , recovery, motherhood, mental health, and the double stand...

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Oct. 1, 2025

Mel Barrett: Alcohol Misuse, Cocaine, Identity, Boxing and Building a Recovery Toolbox

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma, Mel shares a powerful and deeply honest account of her journey through alcohol misuse , escalating substance use, mental health struggles, and the non-linear...

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Sept. 8, 2025

Emma Hardy MP: Ketamine Harm, Mental Health, Flood Risk and Community Recovery in Hull

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma , Emma Hardy MP returns to the podcast to discuss some of the most urgent challenges facing Hull and the wider UK – including rising ketamine harm , worsening...

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July 27, 2025

Elly Mortimer: Harm Reduction, Hepatitis C Elimination and 30 Years of Public Health Experience

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma , Elly returns for her third appearance to share more than 30 years of insight from frontline harm reduction and public health work, with a particular focus o...

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Jan. 22, 2025

Amy Goldberg & Caitlin Morrison: Believe in People America - Matthew Butler Meets the Matthew Perry Foundation

In this powerful transatlantic collaboration of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma , host Amy Goldberg welcomes UK host Matt Butler into the guest seat, joined by special guest host Caitlin Morrison — sister of t...

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Dec. 20, 2024

Sarah Hicks (Part One): Addiction, Coercive Control, Grief and Reclaiming Life After Trauma

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma , Matt begins the first part of a deeply personal two-part conversation with Sarah Hicks , whose story spans addiction, trauma, abusive relationships, grief a...

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Dec. 20, 2024

Sarah Hicks (Part Two): Sexual Trauma, Justice Failures and Survivor-Led Advocacy for Reform

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma , we continue the second part of a powerful two-part conversation with Sarah Hicks , who shares her courageous journey through trauma, justice and long-term r...

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Nov. 23, 2024

Shev Nuttall: Single Motherhood, Alcohol Recovery, Family Trauma and Rewriting Your Story

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma , Matt jumps straight into a heartfelt and unflinching conversation with Shev , who reflects on the emotional weight of adult responsibilities placed on her f...

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Sept. 27, 2024

Emma Plant: Ecstasy to Overdose – Heroin, Maternal Struggles & Naloxone Awakening

Join Matt as he sits down with Emma, whose powerful and unflinching account traces a journey through addiction that began at just 11 years old. Growing up in a family shaped by substance use - her father’s addiction and her g...

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July 1, 2024

Harriette Cantona: Alcohol Aged 10, Self-Harm Survival, Sexual Abuse, Discovering Autism, Overcoming Trauma & A Future In Conservation

WARNING: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault, including graphic descriptions of violence and trauma. Starting to drink at just 10 years old, Harriette bravely recounts her youth in a household shattered by her...

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May 2, 2024

Michelle Heaton: Fame, Fear & Fighting Back – Addiction, Body Shaming & Sobriety Survival

Emmy and BRIT award-winning singer Michelle Heaton returns to Believe in People to mark three years of sobriety with a candid and inspiring conversation about recovery, resilience, and reinvention. Michelle opens up about the...

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April 11, 2024

Amy Jo Johnson: Alcohol Free & Loving Life – Pink Power Ranger To Wellness Advocate

Matt is joined by Amy Jo Johnson - actress, singer, writer, and filmmaker best known as the original Pink Ranger from the 90s phenomenon Mighty Morphin Power Rangers - for a deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation....

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March 8, 2024

Grand Dame Carol Black: UK Drug Policy, Recovery Pathways, Addiction Workforce Challenges, Mental Health Integration & Trauma Informed Care

Matt welcomes back Professor Dame Carol Black for her second appearance on the Believe in People Podcast. Dame Carol, recently awarded the prestigious Grand Cross, the highest level in the order, and is awarded rarely and rec...

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Jan. 26, 2024

Ruth: Alcohol Dependency, Cancer, Triggers, Drinking Behaviours & Exclusive Access To Her Personal Alcohol Diary

Matt delves into Ruth's courageous journey battling alcohol dependency while facing the formidable challenge of a cancer diagnosis. From the casual indulgence to the grip of addiction, Ruth candidly shares her experiences, detailing her use of alcohol diaries to unravel her triggers and pave the path towards recovery. Ruth's unwavering commitment to maintaining sobriety amidst the adversity of her illness serves as a profound source of inspiration. Her story illuminates the virtues…

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Dec. 8, 2023

Claira Hermet: Social Anxiety, Sober Nights Out, Misogyny Grifting, Eating Disorders, The Orgasm Gap & Her Role as a Social Media Influencer

Matt and Claira embark on a profound exploration of the human experience in this episode, delving into the intricate dynamics of social anxiety, navigating sober nights out, and grappling with a decade-long battle against an ...

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