Episodes

Matt is in conversation with Young, whose powerful and chaotic journey through addiction began at just 11 years old and spiralled into a life fuelled by crack, cocaine, alcohol, and eventually heroin. Immersed in the Acid House scene and rising to global prominence as a DJ, Young masked a deepening substance dependency while navigating a double life as a drug smuggler and dealer. His story unravels the seductive illusion of control, revealing the cost of adrenaline-charged highs and the despair ...

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 recognises only the most exceptional and sustained service to the UK. Fewer than 80 women have received the honour and Dame Carol is the first female doctor to be made a Dame Grand Cross.

Celebrated for her instrumental role in shaping UK's drug policy, Dame Carol's efforts s...

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 of resil...

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 eating disorder.

Throughout the conversation, Matt and Claira candidly examine the influence of labels, trauma, and emotional triggers on mental well-being, while shedding light on the concerning trend of 'misogyny grifting.'

The discussion also delves into the gender-spec...

Matt delves into a heartfelt conversation with John, a resilient Hull native whose journey transcends addiction to embody the essence of resilience.

Now serving as a Harm Reduction worker, John's decade-long battle with heroin addiction positions him as a beacon of hope for others navigating similar challenges.

As John bravely recounts his path to recovery, he not only shares his personal struggles but also provides a guiding light for those still grappling with addiction.

His story serves as...

Matt delves into Robin's remarkable talent for blending comedy with science, all while championing rational inquiry through candid discussions on pressing societal issues. Robin's unique approach bridges the gap between humour and serious topics, as he fearlessly tackles subjects such as homelessness, addiction, suicide, and the pervasive stigmas surrounding them. Robin Ince is a multi-award winning comedian, writer and broadcaster. As well as spending decades as one the UK’s most resp...

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma, Matt is joined by Kevin Kennedy - actor and musician best known for playing Curly Watts for 20 years on ITV’s long-running soap Coronation Street, and now director of Kennedy Street recovery services.

Kevin reflects on his very public battle with alcohol addiction and how active recovery over the last 25 years has reshaped his life, identity and purpose. He talks about the strange reprieve of playing a much-loved character whil...

Matt is joined by Bea, a Transgender woman, former Miss Transgender UK, and activist for Trans, neurodiversity, and disability rights.

In this candid conversation, Bea opens up publicly for the first time about her struggles with addiction to substances and shares her experiences of living with Tourette's. She discusses the challenges of finding support and acceptance within both the transgender and neurodiversity communities and shares her insights on how to better support those living with To...

Matt is joined by Pete and they candidly discuss the journey throughout his addiction to heroin and his lifestyle in recovery,

They discuss the modern history of addiction, drug culture, heroin chic and how his personal experiences led to helping others and gaining employment in the sector.

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Matt is joined by Emmy and BRIT Award-winning singer Michelle Heaton, best known as a member of the pop group Liberty X. In April 2021, Michelle bravely entered rehab to confront her battle with addiction — a decision that marked the beginning of a transformative journey. Now 21 months sober, she reflects on the realities of recovery and shares the tools that have helped her live a healthy, balanced life.

In this heartfelt episode, Michelle discusses the importance of setting boundaries in soci...

Matt talks to Darren about his journey from taking his first substance aged nine - right through to present day and his time with Narcotics Anonymous (NA).

NA offers recovery from the effects of addiction through working a twelve-step program, including regular attendance at group meetings. The group atmosphere provides help from peers and offers an ongoing support network for addicts who wish to pursue and maintain a drug-free lifestyle.

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Matt is joined by Mark Moody, CEO of the UK's largest Drug & Alcohol Charity, Change Grow Live. Mark candidly discusses his rise from an entry level position with only 40 people in the organisation all the way to being responsible for over 4,000 employees. Mark and Matt discuss: The impact of Dame Carol Black's independent review on drugs The public's perception of Change Grow LiveGrowing up in Scotland during the heroin epidemic Click here to text our host, Matt, directl...

Matt talks to Sober Girl Society's founder, Millie Gooch, about why she quit drinking - and how it's changed her life. They discuss; binge drinking, labels, alcohol temptations, therapy, mental health, how to deal with sobriety, being a safe drinking ambassador, sober dating, sober sex, Sober Girl Society events, being an Instagram & TikTok influencer and her Sober Girl Society handbook. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! 🎧 If this episode connected with you, please subscribe a...

In 2019 Dame Carol was commissioned by the Home Office and the Department of Health and Social Care to undertake a 2-part independent review of drugs, to inform the government’s thinking on what more can be done to tackle the harm that drugs cause.

Part one was published on 27 February 2020 and provides a detailed analysis of the challenges posed by drug supply and demand, including the ways in which drugs fuel serious violence. Part two was published on the 8 July 2021 and focuses on drug trea...