School of Rock Bottom (Oliver Mason)

From 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 advocacy work as a means of encouraging other young people with addiction issues to ask for help, taking to social media to share her experience and she hasn’t looked back since. Issy navigated nearly her entire 20's sober after a stint in rehab at age 21 and is passionate about dismantling the stigma. She is also the child of a recovering alcoholic.

Recently Issy spoke on BBC Radio 1, was invited to parliament by the APPG on Alcohol Harm and appeared on the Should I Delete That Podcast with Emily Clarkson and Alex Light talking about her sobriety and mental health advocacy work.

Topics -
0:00 Intro
3:41 Issy's rock bottom
6:10 The impact of having an alcoholic parent
10:15 Why Issy calls herself an alcoholic and calling out misinformation online
14:17 Sober curious vs heavy drinking vs alcoholism
20:50 Dealing with shame
25:07 The fear vs hangxiety
27:45 The huge benefits of being sober
29:45 Why Issy is grateful she's an alcoholic
32:50 How to navigate social media with a large following
36:57 Will Issy ever drink again?
38:15 Sober dating & sex
45:00 Zero alcohol booze?
48:10 Acting & comparison fatigue

This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you!

https://bit.ly/3kSucAs

Follow Issy 
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#alcoholic #sobercurious #recovery

[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, she reached out for help, community and therapy and so found great happiness, joy and peace of mind. A huge thank you for sharing in great detail what you learned in your dark years to bring anyone struggling back into the light! Cathy also shares the struggles of coming up in the 1980s and beyond as a black actress - many years before diversity and inclusion was taken seriously by the industry. And what a career she is having!... Cathy has worked on a broad range of projects for screen and stage. Her performance as Polly in Help (Channel 4) was recognised last year when she won the BAFTA for ‘Supporting Actress’. Other television work includes Maternal (ITV), The Canterville Ghost (BBC) and Band of Gold (ITV). Upcoming television projects include Kaos (Netflix), Criminal Record (AppleTV+), Death in Paradise (BBC) and Boiling Point (BBC). Cathy’s break-out performance as Simone in Mona Lisa earned her multiple nominations (Los Angeles Film Critics Association Award for Best Supporting Actress; Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress and BAFTA nomination for Best Actress). She can be seen playing Maureen in the recent Netflix feature Bank of Dave, and will be playing Sam in Luna Carmoon’s upcoming debut feature Hoard. For stage, Cathy has performed across the UK in a variety of productions. Recent credits include Rockets & Blue Lights (National Theatre, Manchester Royal Exchange); My Beautiful Laundrette (Leicester Curve) and Talking Heads (Octagon Theatre Bolton). Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:10 Cathy's first rock bottom 8:25 Seeking help, acceptance & making amends 13:45 Isolation, rumination & loneliness 18:00 The pain of divorce 21:15 Using work as a distraction and for self-esteem 26:30 Protecting your body and mind in the performing arts industry 32:45 Trying to be true to yourself 34:40 Worrying about what other people think 39:40 Do you have to suffer for your art? 41:22 How does Cathy remain happy? 46:41 Diversity & Inclusion 55:25 Self honesty & worry This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Cathy Instagram - https://instagram.com/cathytyson1 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cathy.tyson.10 Twitter - https://twitter.com/CathyElizaTyson Brown Girl Films - https://www.cathytyson.com Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: Spotify - https://bit.ly/3L9S2ll YouTube - https://bit.ly/3Z43V1S Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

[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 path. I couldn't think of anyone better to kick off this podcast! Thank you, David.  If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode please contact MIND on 0300 1233393 or email: info@mind.org.uk David also recommends contacting The Samaritans via phone on 116 123 and if you are worried about your drinking the AA helpline number is 0800 9177650 and the email is help@aamail.org     Topics -  0:00 Intro 3:15 David's rock bottom 4:30 Reaching out for help 5:20 Struggling with alcoholism as a young man 8:30 Seeking therapy 9:30 Love addiction 12:24 Denial and coming to AA 15:08 Cross addiction 19:01 Where does your strength come from? 22:39 Anxiety 24:47 Depression 26:40 Death & trauma 28:23 How performing arts saved David 31:25 What to do in-between jobs 32:35 How to deal with auditions and rejection 39:15 What advice do you have for anyone feeling anxious, depressed or suicidal?    This podcast is not for profit and my goal is to break even. To help me make more episodes, please donate here. Thank you!   https://bit.ly/3kSucAs   Follow Oliver -   Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l   Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx   LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC  TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm YouTube - https://bit.ly/3YOVoyn  Follow David -  Instagram - http://bit.ly/3ZJZMQJ   Twitter - http://bit.ly/3QNntDs  Listen or watch on:   YouTube - https://bit.ly/3YOVoyn Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3Z0Pr1r Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

[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 of judgement & rejection. Jon shares what he has learnt on his incredible journey and is an inspiration to anyone struggling with their mental health and perhaps feels gagged to speak out and share their true feelings because of the stigma that still persists. Jon has so many tools on how to confront & tackle your own struggles and how to keep your mental health strong to secure a happy and ever growing life. More on Jon - Jon is the co-founder of digital agency Byte Entertainment, Co-CEO of lived experience social enterprise Speakers Collective, co-producer of What’s Going On In Your Head? immersive events and a trustee for Let’s Talk About Loss charity supporting young people who have been bereaved. Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:55 Jon's rock bottom 6:40 Red flags before Jon's breakdown 9:20 The danger of ignoring pain and just keeping busy 12:10 How Jon came to be sectioned 18:55 How can you support someone who is suicidal? 21:55 Tools to get out of rock bottom 26:30 Why Jon didn't speak out for 20 years 36:15 How sharing your story supercharges recovery 39:20 Why breaking the stigma is vital 42:38 How can we get the suicide rate down? 45:30 How Jon maintains good mental health 48:20 Managing stress & the power of gratitude 58:30: There is a way out of the very darkest moments For anyone looking for further support, Jon recommends - Hub of Hope - https://hubofhope.co.uk Shout - Text 'SHOUT' to 85258 Samaritans - Call 116123 or email jo@samaritans.org What is CBT? https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/talking-therapies-and-counselling/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt/overview/ This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow John - Website www.jon-salmon.com Social Media Accounts www.linkedin.com/in/jcsalmon www.twitter.com/jonsalmon www.instagram.com/j0nsalmon www.youtube.com/@JonSalmon www.twitter.com/speakerscollect www.linkedin.com/company/speakers-collective-uk www.instagram.com/speakers.collective www.facebook.com/SpeakersCollective www.youtube.com/@speakerscollective Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3ISQlHl YouTube - https://bit.ly/3VSr4Fd Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ #suicideprevention #mentalhealth

Thought 5: Andy Jeffery on Healing Childhood Trauma & PTSD. Author Andy Jeffery shares his extraordinary journey of overcoming childhood abuse, severe PTSD, and alcoholism. In this powerful thought, he reveals how equine therapy, acceptance, and even forgiveness became the foundation of his healing. Despite enduring unimaginable pain, Andy's story is a remarkable testament to the human capacity for transformation and growth. Today, he is one of the most peaceful and loving individuals I’ve ever met. This is a story of hope for anyone struggling—proof that healing is possible, no matter how difficult the past. 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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons. Follow Andy and get his book - Website - https://bit.ly/3oIl4jK Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep5) Spotify - http://bit.ly/40FMSDw Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ YouTube - https://bit.ly/3ZDreyl Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you! https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1 Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs #PTSDRecovery #HealingFromTrauma #OvercomingAbuse

Gab 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, the relapses, and the surprising parallels between gambling and substance addiction.

This isn’t just a story about gambling—it’s about the human condition, resilience, and finding purpose and self worth after addiction. Tune in for a powerful conversation that challenges perceptions, inspires hope, and sheds light on an often-hidden crisis.

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1
Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs

Topics -
0:00 Intro
3:15 Gab's rock bottom
5:50 Why gambling is like drugs & alcohol
8:20 How the behaviour of a gambling addiction mirrors substances
19:20 The neuroscience of gambling addiction
26:30 Poor mental health prior to addiction?
29:00 Using dreams
31:00 Powerless over gambling?
33:20 Withdrawal from gambling?
37:00 Gab's consequences and prison sentence
47:45 Celebrating recovery

For further support Gab recommends the following -

National Problem Gambling Clinic -
https://www.cnwl.nhs.uk/services/addictions/national-gambling-clinic
GamCare -
https://www.gamcare.org.uk

Follow Gab
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gabstone9

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#GamblingRecovery #BreakingTheStigma #AddictionAwareness

[TW//Major depression, panic attacks, anxiety, alcohol abuse] Filmmaker and director Maddie Kitchen was 19 and clinically depressed and suffering panic attacks. At first, alcohol helped relieve her symptoms but years later she found herself suffering a mental breakdown and shaking from alcohol withdrawal every time she tried to stop. Maddie finally surrendered and found recovery through filmmaking and fellowship. Maddie shares exactly how she uses the power of creativity and community to arrest her own and other people's addictions, depression and anxiety. Maddie is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts - in recognition of her work using film to support and advocate for inclusive and diverse mental health and addiction recovery - is a social filmmaker and runs the non profit, Camden based social enterprise Sobriety Films UK.   She set it up in 2019 as a lived experience, female led organisation that uses film to promote and support people in recovery from addiction, mental ill health and trauma. SFUK, believes in the healing power of creativity to overcome adversity. They have worked with Rethink Mental Illness, NHS England, the Alcohol Health Alliance, Turning Point, Humankind, CGL, the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Scottish Health action on Alcohol Problems, Recovery Street Film Festival and the Reel Recovery Film Festival USA.  SFUK is also a member of the National Suicide Prevention Alliance. Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:27 Maddie's rock bottom 5:53 Using alcohol for depression & anxiety 7:56 What is dual diagnosis? 8:46 Dealing with major depressive disorders and panic as a teenager 11:48 Maddie's genetics and environment 12:50 Overcoming panic 16:22 What is a 'breakdown'? 18:23 Taking psychedelic drugs 19:43 Why using drugs and alcohol to cope with anxiety is dangerous 22:34 What it's like having alcohol withdrawal then into recovery 25:09 Relapse in recovery 27:14 Finding strength in the hard moments 30:08 Breaking the stigma through filmmaking 33:35 The birth of Sobriety Films UK 35:42 What do Sobriety Films do? 38:25 The healing power of creativity to overcome adversity 40:25 Why are creatives more likely to suffer with poor mental health? 43:35 How do you keep anxiety & depression at bay? 45:26 The art of saying no! Further support - Your GP - When you talk to your GP about your mental health they'll listen, give you advice and introduce you to a mental health service they think will be most helpful to you. NHS 111- 111 will tell you the right place to get help if you need to see someone. Use the NHS 111 online service, or call 111. You may be able to speak to a nurse, or mental health nurse, over the phone. Rethink Mental Illness - 0808 801 0525 Mind - 0300 123 3393 - If you need non-urgent information about mental health support and services that may be available to you. Switchboard - If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, you can call Switchboard on 0300 330 0630 (10am–10pm every day), email chris@switchboard.lgbt or use their webchat service. Phone operators all identify as LGBT+. Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM). You can call the CALM on 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight every day) if you are struggling and need to talk. Or if you prefer not to speak on the phone, you could try the CALM webchat service. Samaritans - 116 123. https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/ Text Shout 85258 -  https://giveusashout.org For young people National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK - Offers a supportive listening service to anyone with thoughts of suicide. 0800 689 5652 (6pm–3:30am every day). Follow Maddie & Sobriety Films Instagram - https://instagram.com/sobriety_films Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sobriety.films.uk/ Twitter/X - https://x.com/UkSobriety Website - http://www.sobrietyfilms.com Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) YouTube - https://bit.ly/4878Xhn Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

[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 describes how she reversed her downward spiral and embraced self-worth and happiness. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and support each other through these challenging times. Let's inspire one another to prioritise our mental health and well-being. Topics - 00:00 Intro 2:42 Rachel's rock bottom 16:46 The road to recovery 22:24 The importance of connection, humility and hard work 26:19 How do you find the strength to look at past trauma? 28:44 Why are creatives more prone to poor mental health? 30:58 Why 'making it' doesnt matter 33:34 Keeping mentally healthy 35:40 Vunerability as a superpower 37:00 Advice for starting in the music industry all 40:25 The parallels between the acting and music industries 42:26 Don't give up! 45:20 What did your rock bottom teach you? If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode Rachel recommends the following: www.adultchildrenofalcoholics.co.uk https://codauk.org/am-i-co-dependent/ https://www.candi.nhs.uk/services/drayton-park-womens-crisis-house-and-resource-centre This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Rachel - Spotify - http://bit.ly/3oeqW41 Instagram - http://bit.ly/4193Lqm Facebook - http://bit.ly/3oh3uCX YouTube - http://bit.ly/3o7zdqh Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: YouTube - https://bit.ly/3KDZQe9 Spotify - http://bit.ly/3ogOMMA Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out.

[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 was gay but was desperately afraid to tell her very religious family about her sexuality. When the work dried up, her addictions increased and her mental health plummeted coming to a head in 2015 when an encounter with her mum served as the final wake up call that she had to turn her life around. Nicole is now living a sober, happy and healthy life and hasn't taken a bet since 2020. Her more recent work has spotlighted mental health, addiction and survival. She is co-founder of an emerging black women-led theatre company called Nubian Co-Hearts and is currently working on a play which explores these hard-hitting themes and similar gritty topics. Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:35 Nicole's Rock Bottom 8:18 Nicole's childhood fantasy as a means to escape 14:23 Fantasy is replaced by alcohol 16:30 If I'm gay will I go to hell? 23:32 Acting as a way to escape and live in fantasy 30:15 Getting a "proper job" and breaking down 33:25 What is love addiction? 38:45 Gambling 40:25 How Nicole beat cross addiction 46:18 What does it mean to be powerless? 47:20 Free NHS drug and alcohol services 49:35 Nicole's faith 52:20 Mental health maintenance 54:40 Nicole's female black led theatre company If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode Nicole recommends contacting your local NHS drug/alcohol service: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/find-alcohol-addiction-support-services/ This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Nicole Instagram - https://bit.ly/3Oq6VSO Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: YouTube - https://bit.ly/4535NuB Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across alll the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out.

[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 justice system & many victims do not tell anyone. Coercive control slowly hijacks your life - leaving the survivor isolated & dependant. It is a crime against your rights and resources so I thank Smilee for sharing her story to help others and she is undeniable proof that you can bounce back stronger and more resilient. Huge thanks ❤️ Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:50 Smilee's rock bottom 6:05 What is coercive control? Threats & manipulation 16:05 Isolation, smokescreens & financial abuse 22:05 Monitoring activity 26:00 Gaslighting, name calling & intimidation & stalking 34:10 Controlling career & sexual coercion 38:55 What kind of person would do this? 40:10 Love bombing 45:37 Using creativity/music as therapy 47:30 What do you wish you knew at 18? For anyone struggling with these topics Smilee suggests reaching out to: National Domestic Abuse Helpline for free and confidential advice, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247. This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Smilee Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/vsmileemusic TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@vsmilee1 Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3XUDahV YouTube - https://bit.ly/4bDBZqd Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ #coercivecontrol #domesticabuse #strength

What 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 listen.” Now over 8 years sober, Pax has built a tremendous life dedicated to helping others fight the illness of addiction. In this powerful conversation, we explore solutions to alcoholism, how to deal with relapse, cravings and triggers, and the path to removing the obsession with self—and even the desire or need to drink. This episode is for anyone seeking hope in their darkest moments or searching for meaning in their pain. Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you! https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1 Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Thank you to the Gavin Sisters for sponsoring this episode! Visit www.gavinsisters.co.uk and use promo code SCHOOLOFROCKBOTTOM for 10% off! Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:30 Pax's rock bottom 4:15 Is Pax grateful that he lost his legs? 7:00 Pride & how did Pax become homeless 9:30 Let's talk about RELAPSE 13:45 The power of delusion 14:50 God took my legs to save my life 16:30 Why ego death is important 19:45 Pax's solution to his alcoholism 26:30 Letting go of resentments and self obsession 28:20 Why is rock bottom the greatest teacher? 33:30 Triggers & cravings 43:00 Trying to fill the void 45:30 The allergy of alcohol 47:30 Is it REALLY life or death? Resources - https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk Follow Pax Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/paxhalai Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Please subscribe, follow, like, leave a review and comment! YouTube - https://bit.ly/42vXUPf Spotify - https://bit.ly/4aBsmJU Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ Lastly, if you are interested in performing arts and incredible stories and journeys you must check out Matthew Jones' excellent podcast 'Life After Jazz Hands' here - https://bit.ly/4iQ7Nxa #SobrietyStories #HopeInDarkness #AddictionRecovery

Today, 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 rock bottom. But instead of breaking, they rebuilt.

In this powerful conversation, the Gavin Sisters share how they turned their darkest moments into a new beginning. They broke free from drinking and takeaways, embraced radical lifestyle changes, and supported each other as single mums. Doctors told Sharon she’d be unwell and on medication for life—but they couldn’t have been more wrong.

Determined to take control of her health, the sisters overhauled their lives. Lauretta retrained as a natural vegan chef, and together, they swapped red wine, sugar, and processed food for nutrient-packed meals. Sharon’s recovery has been nothing short of remarkable.

Now, they run The Detox Barn wellness retreat, host a hit podcast, and have even launched their own product, Funki Coffee. This is their story of survival, healing, and resilience.

Thank you to the Gavin Sisters for sponsoring this episode! Visit -

www.gavinsisters.co.uk

and use promo code SCHOOLOFROCKBOTTOM for 10% off!

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

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Topics -

0:00 Intro

4:15 Sharon's rock bottom

7:30 Lauretta's rock botttom

12:00 Living in chronic stress & fight or flight

15:00 Why did Sharon get an auto immune disease?

16:15 Hedonism vs wellness?

19:00 Healing from an autoimmune disease

24:45 Lauretta joins Sharon on her wellness journey

28:15 Dealing with the early stages of divorce

29:45 What is grey area drinking?

41:30 Fully embracing a healthy lifestyle

46:00 Medication vs diet?

Follow Gavin Sisters

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Actor 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 and why he got sober - finding solace outside 12 step fellowship, self-help & gaining knowledge. Huge thanks Rupert for being so candid to help others! More on Rupert - Studied drama and theatre at Middlesex. Acting credits include TV shows like Holby City, Casualty and Coronation Street (Jamie Baldwin). Recent work includes Hollyoaks, Four Lives and Whitstable Pearl. He appeared in over 15 stage productions including Lady Chatterley's Lover and Wuthering Heights & directed the national tour of The Full Monty. Film credits include Awaiting and Entity &  features in 25+ radio plays. Rupert writes & directs his own films including; Molehills, Roll With The Punches and The Lookalike & recently wrote, co-directed, and starred in Operation Magpie, winning 'Best Actor' at Manchester Lift Off Festival. Debut play HUSK will stage at Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester, in September, focusing on alcohol addiction and he directs The Arden Drama School showreels and showcase. Rupert co-owns The Castle Hotel and Gullivers pubs in Manchester's Northern Quarter & recently took over The Lloyds in Chorlton. 0:00 Intro 3:15 Rupert's rock bottom 5:15 The beginning of Rupert's acting career 10:15 'Hair of the dog' turns to addiction 18:10 Drinking in the middle of the night & hiding it 21:55 Alcohol causing mental health problems? 25:40 The power of 'being present' 29:15 Sobriety & close relationships 33:15 Drinking turns unstainable & recovery 39:05 Being a sober publican! 42:35 Rupert's new play HUSK 46:15 How Rupert maintains his recovery For anyone struggling with these topics Rupert suggests reading Alcohol Explained by William Porter. This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Rupert Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rupertsinclairhill Twitter/X - https://x.com/RupertHill Go see his new play! https://hopemilltheatre.co.uk/event/husk Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3zqqR2J YouTube - https://bit.ly/45UHYWv Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ #functioningalcoholic #recovery

[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 Birmingham Theatre School and worked for many years in touring theatre. Jenny went on to set up several Youth Theatres and, in 2004, landed what she thought was her dream job in her local theatre. It was this job and other circumstances that led to her rock bottom and triggered some huge life changes. In 2004, she was a size 24 with a BMI of 43 and battling an uncontrollable food addiction leaving her depressed and feeling hopeless. Jenny started to repair her relationship with food and lost over 40kg. Elated at her transformation, Jenny left her career in theatre to work in the dieting industry. Fast forward to 2023! Jenny is now called The Food Freedom Fairy! She empowers serial dieters and emotional eaters to break free from the dieting cycle and find peace with food and most importantly with themselves. Like many, Jenny struggled with food and weight from an early age. In 2020, Jenny released The Power Over Food Podcast and founded The Becoming You Academy®. The Academy teaches women how to nourish their minds, body and soul and enjoy cake without guilt. Most importantly, how to love yourself and be unapologetically you! Jenny is a certified and accredited Health and Life Coach trained in CBT and energy healing modalities, The Helix Method® and Theta Healing®. I can't wait for you to hear Jenny's incredible journey! Topics - 0:00 Intro 03:43 Jenny's rock bottom 08:45 Must you 'clear your plate'? 11:19 Childhood experiences 13:34 The family culture around food 18:06 Food as a reward turning into an addiction 22:43 Jenny's 6 months abstinence from food 23:48 Can food have a similar power to drugs? 27:43 Teenage bullying 30:17 Using performing as a way to cope with negative body image 32:23 The catalyst for change and embracing a weight loss journey 39:48 Weight loss counselling - exploring your relationship to food 43:50 How do you maintain your healthy relationship to food? 47:30 Body positivity vs being healthy 52:18 Advice for parents If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode Jenny welcomes contacting her via social media! The book "Body Happy Kids" that Jenny refers to can be found here - https://www.bodyhappyorg.com/shop/body-happy-kids-book Follow Jenny Podcast - https://bit.ly/42RC70X Website - https://foodfreedomfairy.com/ Instagram - https://bit.ly/3NHog92 Facebook - https://bit.ly/46hdjmc YouTube - https://bit.ly/46cWIjk This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: YouTube - https://bit.ly/3XhoiI4 Spotify - https://bit.ly/3PnuyfE Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

[TW//Anaphylactic Shock, Near Death, Hospitalisation, Stress] Matt Follows was a workaholic, addicted to stress, adrenaline, cortisol and an unhealthy lifestyle. Matt worked in advertising and was obsessed with winning awards and nothing else. Eventually he paid the price when he had a massive anaphylactic shock on the set of a Diet Coke shoot. Luckily for Matt, they were filming opposite Middlesex Hospital and thanks to the high speed driving of the line producer on the job he was rushed into the ICU and pumped full of weapon-grade adrenaline to stop his blood pressure crashing through the floor and stopping his heart. He was in the prime of his life but the toxic stress and alcohol had battered his immune system and opened up a sea of rage. That brush with death happened on a Friday afternoon and by Sunday morning he was back at his desk. Matt is about to take you on an incredible journey of how to positively manage work, stress, adrenaline & cortisol. Matt will show you how to keep stress levels low and have sustainable high performance. Matt shares ground breaking new science around sleep and even how to win, learn and optimize your life before bedtime! Not only that you will become pressure positive, boost your self esteem and eliminate imposter syndrome for good! These topics only scratch the surface of a thoroughly entertaining and informative hour spent with the lovely Matt. For over 28 years Matt has worked with, led and now coaches some of the most well-known and highly-respected leaders in the world, including Chief Creative Officers, CEO’s, boards of directors, 7-figure-founders, corporate presidents and Hollywood A-listers. Prior to pressure proofing brains and eliminating the subconscious bullshit holding people back, he was an Executive Creative Director in London and Sydney where he helped build and run creative departments for some of the biggest and most influential brands on the planet, including Nike, Virgin, Apple and Google. Today, as well as being a Peak Performance Psychologist and executive coach for some of the sharpest, smartest, most prolific creative brains in the business, he trains leaders and teams at Fox, National Geographic, Toyota, Lexus, Universal, Maxis, and Westfield, where he upskills everyone from the sharpest CEO to the greenest grad. In addition to gaining a raft of traditional coaching qualifications Matt graduated from King’s College London with a first in Clinical Psychotherapy & Hypnotherapy and is a Master Practitioner of NLP as well a CBT therapist, an EMDR practitioner, an advanced EFT coach and a Master Trainer in Advanced Conversation Hypnosis. After more than 30,000 hours of 1:1 and group coaching sessions he’s created a completely unique approach to coaching and therapy that he calls the Magic Bullet Method®. Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:11 Matt's rock bottom 4:38 Stress, adrenaline & cortisol addiction 9:37 The effects of long term stress 12:52 Workaholism & alcohol misuse 18:56 How to keep stress levels low and have sustainable high performance 24:18 How to get a good night's sleep 30:06 Win, learn optimise before bedtime 33:00 Being pressure positive 38:04 Why are creative brains more likely to have poor mental health? 40:09 How do you separate sense of worth from your job? 53:24 How to boost your self esteem 56:57 Being able to wear different 'hats'. 58:13 Why are creatives more prone to Imposter Syndrome? 01:02:17 How to stop comparing yourself negatively with other people 01:03:30 How to reach out for help This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs You can get immediate access to over 300 of these videos when you follow or connect with Matt on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattfollows Newsletter - https://leadingleft.com/newsletter Listen or watch on:  Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ YouTube - https://bit.ly/45N8EqJ

"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 thank you Martin John! More on Martin John - Born into poverty in 1963 East London, Martin John was schooled by his father, a ruthless East End gangster turned scrap metal dealer. By 33, he clawed his way to millionaire status in the furniture trade. But as his wealth grew, so did his addiction to cocaine and alcohol. Over the next 30 years, he lost everything. By 54, bloated and broken, he prayed for death, consumed by regret. A near-fatal overdose became his wake-up call. Now, Martin has fought his way back through fitness and is helping others escape the hell of addiction. Martin is over 10 years clean. Topics 0:00 Intro 3:50 Martin's rock bottom 5:30 Cocaine increases after rock bottom 10:10 Cocaine use spirals out of control 12:50 From half a gram to 5k a week 17:50 Anxiety & panic attacks 20:50 The end of using 28:10 I help others but CA wasn't for me 34:20 Many routes to recovery 36:50 Brutal honesty 42:10 Maintaining recovery & the passion! 45:40 Martin tells ya straight! This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Martin John Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/martinjohngetclean Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@martinjohngetclean Website - https://www.martinjohngetclean.com Book - https://amzn.to/3OfmcVs Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Please subscribe, follow, like, leave a review and comment! YouTube - https://bit.ly/3UUTRHL Spotify - https://bit.ly/48Skd2I Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ #CocaineAddiction #AddictionRecovery #OvercomingChallenges

[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 complexities of her past, Maike's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. If you’ve ever struggled with accepting the past, trauma, self-worth, or finding your path forward, this episode is for you.

More -
Maike initially trained as an actor and performed on stage and TV. Her credits include North Square, The King and Us, Holby City, the Royal, Always & Everyone and Coronation Street, as well as The Gate Theatre and the Royal Exchange, Manchester.  After becoming frustrated with the sporadic nature of the work, she retrained as a Relate Couple and Young Peoples Counsellor, going on to work for Relate. She volunteers for Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) & last year she wrote a book about her experience of growing up with a father with undiagnosed mental health issues who went on to take his own life.  Her book: The Confession: A Journey to Acceptance was published in 2023. She now works as a yoga teacher & for The LUNA foundation.

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

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Topics -
0:00 Intro
3:30 Maike's rock bottom
8:30 Shocking moments in childhood
12:00 Childhood coping mechanisms ALL
14:45 Using adult relationships to fix childhood ones
15:50 Searching for answers
23:15 When not knowing can be OK
28:30 Forgiveness Vs acceptance
31:40 Dealing with doubt now
34:40 Yoga as therapy
39:30 Ongoing healing & working as a therapist
44:10 How to move through childhood trauma

Further support -
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide - 0300 111 5065 Hub of hope - https://hubofhope.co.uk Samaritans -116 123 NAPAC – 0808 801 0331

Follow Maike
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#TraumaRecovery
#MentalHealthJourney
#acceptance

Sex 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 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, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons.

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

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Follow Michael

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Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep 16)

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#SexAddiction

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Anorexia 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, with 20% remaining chronically unwell. But this certainly isn’t solely a story of struggle-it’s a journey of finding strength, purpose and a wonderful life. Nearly half of those who battle anorexia make a full recovery, and this episode proves that healing is possible. Please share with anyone struggling. More on Sophie - Sophie is a social and political activist working in international development and youth mental health, whose rock bottom came at just 12 years old when she was hospitalised for Anorexia. Eventually achieving a full recovery, Sophie went on to study Politics and International Relations at the University of Bristol where she earned the Politics’ Prize for best academic performance in the year and cemented her dedication to affecting wide-scale social change. She is proud to have recently provided opening remarks for a parliamentary roundtable on youth mental health/services with the Minister for Mental Health. Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you! https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1 Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:55 Sophie's rock bottom 8:05 When did Sophie realise it was anorexia? 10:05 Was Sophie aware of it escalating as a child? 13:35 Anorexia felt safe and it numbed emotions 16:35 Sophie's view of anorexia 22:05 Myths and misconceptions 29:35 Why anorexia is like addiction 33:20 Do people with anorexia like food? 36:55 Sophie's recovery journey & healing 45:15 ADHD 48:05 Sophie's relationship with food now Sophie received support from: Eating Matters (Norwich), Cruise Bereavement (National) & The Bridge (Bristol). Follow Sophie Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sophiee.anderson Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Please subscribe, follow, like, leave a review and comment! YouTube - https://bit.ly/4jbvZdo Spotify - https://bit.ly/4air4TL Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ Lastly, if you are interested in performing arts and incredible stories and journeys you must check out Matthew Jones' excellent podcast 'Life After Jazz Hands' here - https://bit.ly/4iQ7Nxa #AnorexiaRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #EatingDisordersHelp

[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 other parents and children pressures and expectations in an exciting and challenging acting industry. Carryl is an English actress who grew up in South London. Carryl studied Musical Theatre at Mountview and enjoyed a few years in West End Musicals performing in Olivier Award winning shows, such as, My Fair Lady (directed by Sir Trevor Nunn) and Our House (directed by Matthew Warchus) and then made a smooth transition into Television joining Channel 5's original soap Family Affairs as troubled teen Kelly Boulter for 3 years, where she received British Soap and Screen Nation Award Nominations. Carryl subsequently joined the cast of The Sarah Jane Adventures and made a guest appearances in Holby City. Carryl created the role of Keisha in the world Premiere Flashdance directed by Tony Award-winning director Kenny Leon and choreographed by Arlene Phillips. Other work includes filming a new crime series from the producers of CSI and Law and Order, Silent Witness, Emmerdale and Royal Variety performances. As a busy Mother of 4 boys, Carryl continues working as an actress and combines acting with running the Foundation course at Mountview. Carryl's sons seem to be following closely in her footsteps. Her eldest son made his acting debut at the National Theatre in Patrick Marber's adaptation of Three Days in the Country, her second son Oscar made his acting debut in Bridgerton for Netflix, her third son Eiden-River made his debut in Silent Witness for BBC 1 and her youngest, Lake is only 4 but is surrounded by the arts and it won’t be long before he decide to join in or indeed run for the hills! Topics 0:00 Intro 3:05 Carryl's rock bottom 6:17 Baby blues vs postnatal depression 13:35 Depression vs PND 31:00 Why did Carryl have suicidal thoughts? 32:43 How did Carryl start to get better? 36:45 The individual self vs being a parent 41:22 Being a performer vs being a parent 46:13 Advice for parents who have children in the industry 51:33 How do you maintain good mental health? 54:00 Working at Mountview 56:05 Advice for anyone connected to PND who is suffering If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode Carryl recommends visiting: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/post-natal-depression/overview/ This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Carryl Instagram - https://instagram.com/carrylthomas Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on:  YouTube - https://bit.ly/3YrPEff Spotify - https://bit.ly/446C0zt Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. https://bit.ly/3YrPEff

[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 has since completely turned his life around with the help of fellowship & therapy and he helps others do the same! Huge thanks to Darren for being so honest so that we can break down the stigma and unpack the finer details around these important topics. I know so many people will identify with your experience and journey ❤️ More on Darren - Darren is a writer, producer, actor and director. An award winning film & theatre maker and in 2017 he was nominated for an Olivier Award for the opera La bohème at the former Trafalgar Studios and won an Off West End Award for Doubt, A Parable at Southwark Playhouse with a further 14 nominations in other theatre works. His debut film as writer & director Blueberry Smoothie won the New York Award for Best Short LGBTQ+ and for his performance in Blueberry Smoothie he won best Performance at the LGBTQ+ Toronto Film Festival 2023. Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:45 Darren's rock bottom & starting recovery 5:45 What does 'acting out' mean to Darren? 9:38 Why loneliness kills 13:35 The power of step 4 18:35 How did Darren learn he is a love avoidant fantasy addict? 23:35 The emotional pain from Sex & Love addiction & how SLAA works 27:15 Your brain on sex & love 28:10 What is love addiction for some people? 30:35 Finding a sponsor in SLAA 33:55 Using fantasy as a creative 35:50 The benefits of recovery 39:10 How to be 'present'? 42:30 Ongoing maintenance 45:15 Why are so many creatives suffering? For anyone struggling with these topics Darren suggests reaching out to - SLAA - https://slaauk.org This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Darren Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/creativedazzle Podcast - https://theatreaudiencepodcast.com/ Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3QsOSf5 YouTube - https://bit.ly/4a3ajKK Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

Can you be happy & sober? In this powerful conversation with actor and Torchwood star Kai Owen, we delve into his journey of breaking free from alcohol and discovering true happiness without drinking. On this quick thought, Kai shares how he overcame binge drinking, found joy in sobriety, and learned to be present for his family, friends, and career. This clip is perfect for anyone questioning whether life can truly be fulfilling without alcohol. Tune in for an honest discussion about the challenges and rewards of living alcohol-free and how it can transform your life.

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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons.

Follow Kai -
Instagram - http://bit.ly/43nqUqE

Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep7)

YouTube - https://bit.ly/3BTJzkU
Spotify - http://bit.ly/419FbW8
Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1
Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs

#SobrietyJourney #AlcoholFreeLife #HappinessWithoutAlcohol

[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 Opera House and Radio City Music Hall. In 2021, Jonathan was involved in an accident while rehearsing a stunt for American TV. The accident left Jonathan with horrendous injuries and resulted in him being permanently paralyzed from the waist down. Jonathan very easily could have died. Now retired from stunt performing Jonathan has turned his attention to writing, presenting, hypnotherapy and being a roll model (pun intended) for both disabled and able bodied people alike. His gratitude, positivity and fearless mindset, both pre and post accident, is hugely, inspiring, enlightented and educational. You will not regret a second listening to Jonathan - pure joy! Topics - 0:00 Intro 02:30 Jonathan's rock bottom 07:26 Live in the moment! 10:17 Jonathan's pragmatic & positive mindset 17:18 Love is all you need 23:07 Early recovery after the injury 27:10 The power of gratitude 29:36 Embracing physical disability 33:02 How to appreciate and create beauty 37:59 The positive side of mental pain 40:00 The power of choice and acceptance 42:28 How a positive mindset helps you be a creative 48:00 How Jonathan stays in the moment and creates new ideas 52:25 Using time wisely 58:26 Empathy & kindness is king 01:01:38 Don't define yourself by your condition 01:04:10 Humility and asking for help 01:08:47 Eliminate fear 01:10:06 The false myths of hypnosis 01:13:00 What hypnosis really is and how it works If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode Jonathan recommends the following services: https://www.spinal.co.uk SIA Support Line: 0800 9800501 This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Jonathan Instagram - https://bit.ly/3P0IFHw Twitter - https://bit.ly/3MOxr66 Hypnotherapy - https://calendly.com/changingyourmind/60min Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: YouTube - https://bit.ly/43Gibik Spotify - https://bit.ly/3qqQUSR Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out.

[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 of recovery. This podcast will inspire everyone that there is huge power in human resilience and offers hope to anyone in a mental health crisis. Georgia - I salute you. You are amazing ❤️ More on Georgia - Georgia Lock is an actor and OCD advocate living in London, she began her career on CBBC at the age of 13 and went on to work with Disney channel in various shows. Credits include: Sadie J, The Evermoore Chronicals and the voice of Sadie Sparks with new projects being announed this year. An avid poet, Georgia won a competition in 2019 to have a small collection of her poetry published and is now working on her second collection for the publisher. She also writes music which is often inspired by mental health struggles and has run poetry workshops for OCD UK and was a panelist at the OCD action conference. Topics - 0:00 Intro 1:45 Georgia's rock bottom 9:08 The day my brain "broke" 12:14 Intrusive thoughts & compulsions 15:30 OCD red flags before diagnosis? 19:30 Anxiety vs OCD 24:45 False memory OCD 27:35 Intrusive thoughts connecting to strong emotions & feelings 34:20 OCD & the entertainment industry 38:45 Thoughts aren't facts 43:25 The comfort of community & therapy 47:14 The power of maybe 49:15 The madness of doubt 50:00 The backdoor spike 51:45 A good day with OCD recovery 53:25 Ongoing maintenance 56:06 Final words of wisdom from Georgia For information and support Georgia recommends - https://ocdaction.org.uk https://www.ocduk.org https://www.treatmyocd.com This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Georgia Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/georgia_nathalie Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/4bxJxMF YouTube - https://bit.ly/3UONMxr Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

This 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 struggles can lead to the most beautiful of journeys. If you’ve ever felt like giving up, Gareth’s journey will make you think twice. His raw honesty and resilience show that rock bottom isn’t the end—it’s the start of something bigger. More on Gareth - Gareth Berliner, a true Cockney born within the sound of Bow Bells but raised in Redbridge, Essex, began his stand-up comedy career in 2003. He’s graced stages at festivals, corporate events, and gigs across the UK and internationally. Beyond comedy Gareth is passionate about mental health, having spoken publicly on the topic and running workshops for the disabled and neurodiverse. Gareth transitioned into acting, landing a role on Coronation Street that expanded from two episodes to over 20. Since then, he’s appeared in Doctor Who, Eastenders, The Bastard Executioner, The Essex Serpent & the animated film Mog's Xmas & he has even shared the screen with his wife - actress Kiruna Stamell in Doctors. Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:15 Gareth's rock bottom 13:05 How Crohn's disease saved my life 14:05 Gareth's mental health prior to suicide attempt 16:05 Was Gareth's depression situational only? 18:20 From suicide to an amazing life 21:55 Comedy saved my life 24:30 Let's talk about hope! 31:00 Getting back into work 35:00 Do you need the darkness to access the light? 37:00 ADHD, dopamine, weed & coke! 44:35 If you had of died what would you have missed out on? If you have been affected by these topics, Gareth suggests the following support - CALM: 0800 585858 The Samaritans: 116123 or email jo@samaritans.org This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Gareth Website: https://garethberliner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garethberliner Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Please subscribe, follow, like, leave a review and comment! YouTube - https://bit.ly/40buWDc Spotify - https://bit.ly/3Ygumlb Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ #mentalhealth #suicidepreventionawareness #crohns

[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 his career going from strength to strength. For anyone struggling with binge drinking/using and looking for inspiration to stop this is a must watch. John is full of incredible advice for all creatives who want a long and happy career. Huge thanks John! More on John - With a career spanning 25 years, John has left an indelible mark as an actor, gracing the screens of many UK TV classics. Not content with just being in front of the camera, he seamlessly transitioned into the role of First Assistant Director, lending his expertise to a variety of films, including two feature productions and Channel 4 soaps. In 2016, he embarked on a new adventure by founding WildStreet, an independent production company that became a temporary home for crafting documentaries for Channel 4, short films for diverse artists, and countless 'proof of concepts' for Commissioners. Adding to his multifaceted repertoire, John recently completed a Screenwriting MA at Goldsmiths and now contributes his creative prowess to BearJam, an independent production company based in the vibrant district of Brixton. Beyond the glitz of the entertainment industry, John Pickard is also a passionate footballer, having graced both the iconic Wembley stadiums—Old and New—for charity matches, earning himself a well-deserved Man of the Match cup. Yet, amidst all these achievements, his most cherished title is that of a father to his nearly five-year-old daughter. Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:00 John's rock bottom 7:00 Lack of self love 8:15 How John's career began 12:47 Is fame a drug? 13:58 Why did John stop drinking and talking drugs? 16:16 Getting outside help 17:30 Binge drinking/using vs addiction 19:40 Getting into filmmaking 22:50 Advice for creatives in the industry 28:24 Dealing with rejection and expectations 31:50 How to fail forward 37:04 Why karma is important to John 41:30 Dealing with relapse and zero alcohol drinks 45:50 How John keeps his mental health strong John recommends the following audiobooks - Alan Watts "Out of Your Mind" Inner Engineering "A Yogi's Guide to Joy" Michael Neill "The Inside Out Revolution" Thich Nhat Hanh "Fear" Daniel Kahneman "Thinking, Fast & Slow" Steven Peters "The Chimp Paradox" This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow John Vimeo - https://vimeo.com/johnpickard Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-pickard-442a8830 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/johnnyinapickle Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/42S8puB YouTube - https://bit.ly/49LHNNO Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

Thought #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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons.

Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep2)

Youtube - http://bit.ly/3ZHrVYi
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This podcast is not for profit and my goal is to break even. To help me make more episodes, please donate here. Thank you!

https://bit.ly/3kSucAs

Follow Kelly
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#EatingDisorderRecovery
#BulimiaRecovery
#MentalHealthSupport

44 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 through ANYTHING without the want or need to drink or use drugs. Tom has so much wisdom for anyone who is sober curious right through to those with chronic alcohol use disorder - and also those working in performing arts Tom has tons of valuable insights! He also had me cracking up from his amazing voices! A real joy ❤️ More - Tom is voiceover royalty, the voice of Kellogg's Tony The Tiger with currently 128 credits on IMDB! Robert De Niro has 127! These include: Fantastic Beasts, Sniper Elite, Robozuna, Timesplitters, Terminator, Batman, The Witcher, Wakfu, Alien, Transformers, Lego City, Sonic, I could be here all day... ❤️ Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:00 Tom's rock bottom & recovery 13:50 Coming out of denial & alcohol as the solution 17:45 Keep it simple stupid! 21:20 Do you need to believe in God to do the 12 steps? 25:30 How can you have fun without alcohol? 28:15 Dating in recovery 30:50 You can get through anything sober 35:30 Don't project! 37:37 Has Tom ever been close to relapse? 39:05 Perfectionism, self loathing and being an actor 43:00 Just for today! 49: Live in the moment! 50:20 Zero alcohol beer? 53:10 Heavy drinking vs alcoholism 55:45 Final thoughts For anyone struggling with addiction Tom suggests reaching out to 12 step fellowships. For example: AA - https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk NA - https://ukna.org CA - https://www.cocaineanonymous.org.uk This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Tom Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tomclarkehill Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3Q4p60n YouTube - https://bit.ly/3w5RtEI Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

Is Happiness a Choice?! Can you stop overthinking and just live in the now?! Today's quick thought is with Jonathan Goodwin, "The Daredevil," as he shares his incredible journey. A world-renowned escape artist and stunt performer, Jonathan survived life-threatening stunts before a 2021 accident left him paralysed. Despite this, his resilience and positive mindset have been truly inspiring.

Jonathan discusses how his near-death experience cemented his view on life, focusing on the present moment and finding beauty even through hardship. He explores how mental and physical pain are linked and how reframing struggles can help us grow. Jonathan also highlights how happiness is a choice, and by living in the moment, we can find peace, creativity and gratitude, no matter the circumstances.

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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons.

Follow Jonathan
Instagram - https://bit.ly/3P0IFHw
Twitter - https://bit.ly/3MOxr66
Hypnotherapy - https://calendly.com/changingyourmind/60min

Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep9)

YouTube - https://bit.ly/43Gibik
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Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1
Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs

#LiveInTheMoment
#ChooseHappiness
#MindsetShift

Theatre 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 candid to help people. Legend ❤️ More on Mark - Mark Shenton has been a full-blown theatre addict since the age of 14. He later found a way to monetise it — and get free tickets as well — by becoming a full-time professional theatre critic and commentator.  Born and raised in South Africa, he emigrated with his parents to England when he was 16, and attended Cambridge University where he read law (but spent most of his time reviewing and producing student theatre).  He later became editor of arts and entertainment at the Press Association and spent a year working in the offices of producer Cameron Mackintosh. In 2002 he went freelance and became a full-time writer, separately (and sometimes simultaneously) acting as theatre critic for WhatsOnStage, The Stage (where he was also an associate editor), the Sunday Express and londontheatre.co.uk for the next two decades. He also regularly broadcast on BBC London (radio and TV), as well as contributing to other outlets including LBC, Times Radio and Talk Radio. In 2022 he moved to West Sussex with his husband, and now writes a regular theatre newsletter which is published on his own website, ShentonStage.com. Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:45 Mark's rock bottom 8:35 Porn addiction 12:30 Porn addiction turns to sex addiction 24:00 Addiction to hiring porn stars 26:30 The consequences & sex addiction turns to love addiction 29:00 Why the addiction for Mark? 32:50 Is spirituality needed to recover? 36:50 My name's Mark and I'm a theatre addict 39:17 Actors mustn't read reviews! 47:25 How to heal the "empty" feeling? For anyone struggling with these topics Mark suggests reaching out to - SLAA - https://slaauk.org This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Mark X - https://x.com/ShentonStage Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shentonstage Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3WCXK5s YouTube - https://bit.ly/3Ytj4f7 Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

[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 hero for telling his story today to help others. Robert was recently nominated for an Olivier Award for his role in 'Come From Away' in The West End at The Phoenix Theatre and has a huge body of theatre work at all the top venues. He also played Sir Robin in the original London cast of 'Spamalot!' and is a a member of Edward Hall's world-renowned all male Shakespeare company 'Propeller.' He also played the lead in the cult horror film 'The Lesson', as well as appearing regularly on the tv in Endeavour, Berlin Station, Noughts and Crosses, Tom Jones and the yet to be screened 'Masters of the Air” for Apple TV. He is probably best known for his television roles in Sharpe's Battle, Doctor Who and The House of Eliott, as well as the films Charlotte Gray, Anna and The King, and the Academy Award-winning (Best Picture) Shine. 0:00 Intro 3:29 Robert's rock bottom 18:27 What is crystal meth? 20:08 Robert's progression to injecting 30:48 The dangers of methamphetamine 32:45 Breaking down the stereotypes of a drug addict 35:58 Low self esteem, addiction and performing 40:15 How do you balance challenges of the performing arts industry and relapse? 46:58 Chem sex 48:28 How Robert became a survivor 53:28 Inspiration for those that feel hopeless This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode we recommend contacting the following organisations: SMART Recovery - https://smartrecovery.org.uk/ Narcotics Anonymous - https://ukna.org/ Follow Robert Instagram - https://instagram.com/rob.hands Twitter - https://twitter.com/RobertHands7 Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: YouTube - https://youtu.be/2qlhqijv3hI Spotify - https://bit.ly/46Om6fl Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out.

Is 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 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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons.

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1

Or via PayPal - https://tinyurl.com/bdxje3ee

Buy 'The Joy Of Addiction'https://amzn.to/3N2fXTY

Follow Sebastian

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Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep10)

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#AddictionRecovery#SoberLife#MentalHealthAwarenes

Who 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, challenging the harmful stereotypes that often surround them. Raffa holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Counselling using the Arts and has extensive training in Integrative Art Psychotherapy. His unique approach offers fresh insights into what recovery can truly look like, and how we can reshape our perspectives for a more inclusive and supportive future. Key Takeaways - Diverse Faces of Addiction: Understanding that addiction affects individuals across all demographics and communities. Breaking Down Stigma: Discussing the societal narratives that hinder recovery and how we can shift towards empathy and support. Raffa’s Journey in Recovery: Insight into Raffa’s extensive experience and the lessons learned from over 20 years in the field. Vision for the Future: Raffa shares innovative ideas on how recovery can evolve, breaking down barriers within all cultures and communities. A special thank you to Raffa for her invaluable contributions and for inspiring us to think differently about addiction and recovery. Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:50 Why did Raffa pursue this career? 7:00 A calling & life purpose from a Muslim scholar 9:30 What does rock bottom look like? 14:00 The stigma of addiction in different cultures 17:30 Religion vs culture 23:30 What kind of people go to rehab & why? 33:20 Running a rehab as a Muslim 41:00 If you were a good Muslim that wouldn't happen? 44:25 A vision for the future 49:15 The healing power of compassion & forgiveness This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Raffa Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/creative_recovery_workshops Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3YMYyWC YouTube - https://bit.ly/3X0RJzq Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

Thought 4: Georgina White on Anxiety, Alcohol & 'Hovering Above Rock Bottom'. Actor Georgina White shares her powerful story about how anxiety shaped her life. When she tried alcohol at 12, it felt like a solution—giving her the confidence and calm she craved. For years, she believed she didn’t have a problem; after all, she didn’t drink daily, and sometimes not heavily. But behind the scenes, Georgina describes living in a constant state of "hovering above rock bottom," masking deeper struggles until everything finally collapsed. Her story is a reminder that addiction doesn’t always look like what we expect. 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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons. Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep4) Youtube - https://bit.ly/3ZCd0Rj Spotify - https://bit.ly/3ODP75I Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you! https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1 Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs #Anxiety #AddictionRecovery #Alcoholaddiction

[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 those happy clappy prima donnas'. The real reason? He was an addict, hopelessly hooked on drugs and alcohol and didn't want to be found out. Sebastian takes us on a compelling journey down the abyss of alcohol, cocaine, speed, cannabis, hallucinogen and prescribed drug addiction, leading him to various rock bottoms and 'dark nights of the soul'. Then, aged 21, a moment of inspiration: a seed planted by his long suffering mother finally got him into the 12-step programme, offering him the life-changing gift of recovery. For anyone struggling with addiction, he shares how he got himself out and continues to live life, a day at a time — a free man. Having found recovery in 1987, Sebastian formed indie-rock band Yeah in 1990, playing the London, Hamburg and Berlin club circuits. After a five-page interview with Die Zeit Magazine in 1992, Yeah appeared on various radio and TV shows and in 1993 was awarded The John Lennon Talent Award in Hamburg. In 1998 he wrote and produced World Cup Crescendo for TV impressionist Alistair McGowan. In 2002 he signed as a songwriter for Global Chrysalis Publishing, writing numerous songs for Cherry Red Records and Universal Records and released his solo album: Don Sebastiano, The Spaghetti Tree. In 2007 Wocker recorded the soundtrack of German movie Pornorama with Mousse T and, in 2010, was the singing voice for Tobias Menzies in the award winning independent motion picture Forget Me Not. Sebastian has written as a journalist for The Independent, Mr Partner Magazine (Japan), Camden New Journal and Ham and High Express. He is currently journalist and editor of the Hampstead Village Voice and has interviewed various household names including Emma Thompson, Russell Brand, George Graham, Giles Coren and Martin Bell. Wocker is currently recording an audiobook for his best selling book The Joy of Addiction, out on Audible from February 2024 and is writing the sequel: The Joy of Relapse. He is currently the lead singer/song writer of indie band Ridiculous with Jon Moss, Erran Baron-Cohen and Peter Noone. Ridiculous has just recorded their debut single Everybody Loves That Girl at Abbey Road Studios. Topics - 0:00 Intro 4:30 Sebastian's many rock bottoms and finding recovery 18:40 Why Sebastian used drugs as a teenager 24:30 Drug use in young people in 2023 27:15 Cocaine 29:42 Using drugs to escape 31:45 The walk of shame 36:30 What is the 'joy of addiction'? 38:30 The joy of being in recovery 42:50 Advice for teenagers and parents who are struggling with drug misuse If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode Sebastian recommends the following services: https://ukna.org/ www.cocaineanonymous.org.uk/ www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/ https://familiesanonymous.org/ https://al-anonuk.org.uk/ https://al-anon.org/newcomers/teen-corner-alateen/ This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. Please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Buy 'The Joy Of Addiction' https://amzn.to/3N2fXTY Follow Sebastian Instagram - https://bit.ly/3Pdwl6V Twitter - https://bit.ly/46baXVU Facebook - https://bit.ly/3NoLpgx Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: YouTube - https://bit.ly/43uN4pJ

“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 ends. He fought his way back, rebuilt his life, and emerged in full recovery and as a thriving entrepreneur, author of the critically acclaimed On Days Like These, and a familiar face from The Real Housewives of Cheshire on TV.

Over three million people die every year from addiction and Joe is on a mission to help get those stats down. Huge thanks, Joe!

Thank you, too, to Gavin Sisters for sponsoring this episode! Visit -

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and use promo code SCHOOLOFROCKBOTTOM for 10% off!

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

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Topics -

0:00 Intro

03:10 Joe's rock bottom

04:25 Cocaine at the beginning saved my life

06:15 Coke escalates and gets painful

10:15 Do you have to stop drinking if in recovery from coke?

14:00 Alcohol mixed with cocaine makes a more dangerous drug!

16:15 The stereotypes of addiction

18:40 The impact of losing his Dad & using cocaine

21:40 What would you say to your Dad now?

26:10 Coming out of the shadow of Dad's legacy

27:30 Validation addiction?

29:00 Is your wife your higher power?

32:30 Should you avoid new relationships in early recovery?

34:50 Do you need to only date people in recovery?

36:15 Trying to stop and relapses

39:20 Dry sniffing & ADHD

41:30 How Joe gets dopamine hits now!

43:30 Overcoming anhedonia

44:50 Using social media, the gym & talking

47:45 Is FAITH always about spiritual matters?

49:00 Just be yourself!

52:45 We must get the message out of recovery!

53:50 It's not just about YOU!

55:00 It gets better!

56:15 What would you like written on your gravestone?

Follow Joe

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[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 book, A Small Boy Smiling, tells a remarkable story of survival and how he has overcome the trauma, guilt and shame of childhood sexual abuse, teenage alcoholism and complex post-traumatic stress disorder. When he was eight years old, he was targeted by a group of predatory paedophiles who subjected him to 18-months of horrific sexual abuse. 'A Small Boy Smiling' was published under the pseudonym Matt Carey. Andy's heartbreaking story is the most remarkable journey of hope, recovery, inspiration and healing. Despite suffering in his childhood and having many rock bottoms - he shares how he turns it all around and goes on to enjoy a fantastic life, career and dedicates his time helping fellow survivors. The word 'hero' can be used lightly but no one deserves this title more than Andy. An absolute must watch/listen. Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:23 Andy's rock bottom 11:09 Andy's childhood rock bottom 16:40 Nervous breakdown and PTSD 20:21 Puberty, flashbacks and alcohol 25:32 What is Andy's experience of PTSD? 29:30 Recovering from PTSD 31:20 Equine therapy 36:30 Any healing is possible 37:50 The role of acceptance and forgiveness 41:30 Is justice important? 42:51 Helping others 44:15 Travelling and spirituality 50:00 You are not alone Andy suggests visiting his website for further support and links - https://www.mattcareybooks.com/people-who-can-help This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Andy and get his book - Website - https://bit.ly/3oIl4jK Follow Oliver - Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Watch/Subscribe - YouTube - http://bit.ly/3ZDreyl Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out. We will also be discussing how to protect your mental health whilst working within the creative industries.

[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 up revolutionary bleed control kits around Sussex (and soon to be London) which are designed to prevent catastrophic blood loss while waiting for the paramedics to arrive. Thank you, Carl Scott, for sharing your inspiring journey, life transformation and dedication to breaking the cycle of drugs violence and knife crime on my podcast. Your work with Project Youth is making a significant and vital impact and you continue to give hope to anyone struggling with drug addiction. Huge thanks! Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:10 Carl's rock bottom 6:55 What is heroin? 8:00 Addiction and trying to avoid pain 13:55 Why Carl hated everyone 18:20 Why heroin was so powerful for Carl and the consequences 23:50 Why Carl wanted to be in a gang 28:15 Leaving gang life but addictions continue 32:40 How Carl got clean from heroin 42:10 The power of purpose & identity 47:50 Not living in the past and sharing worries 49:15 Project Youth and preventing knife crime 54:40 What intervention would have changed your life? 56:50 Why we need bleed control kits on the streets This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Carl Instagram - https://instagram.com/twosaduo_official Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@twosaduoofficial Website - https://projectyouth.co.uk Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (Please SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW & REVIEW/RATE) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3SQuJ4K YouTube - https://bit.ly/3R32yNi Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

[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 people die by suicide each week, 75% of them men. - 1 in 5 people experience suicidal thoughts. - Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50.

Join Ben in breaking the silence and saving lives. Ben & I are hugely passionate about young people's mental health so please stick around to the end to watch/listen to some superb insights.

Topics -
0:00 Intro
3:05 Ben's rock bottom & the birth of Talk Club
16:35 Does Talk Club have a higher purpose?
17:50 How are you out of 10 & mental fitness
24:10 The power of talking
26:50 Do 'normal blokes' have red flags?
30:40 Maintaining mental fitness
32:25 Is it just a mid-life crisis?
36:25 Is poor mental health in young people putting them off drugs & alcohol?
41:20 The dark side of online competition
43:50 Building resilience and the role of adults

This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs

Follow Talk Club  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/talkclubcharity Website - https://talkclub.org

Support Talk Club

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Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) YouTube - https://bit.ly/4e7MfZY Spotify - https://bit.ly/4ecnX0P Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

#MentalHealthAwareness #MaleSuicidePrevention #SuicideAwarenessUK

[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.

Justin had the absolute honour of representing his country South Africa at the World Champs in 2006 and two Paralympics, Beijing 2008 and London in 2012. His team became continental champions at the Inaugral All African Games held in Algeria in 2007.

They also became the first team from Africa to win a game at the Paralympics in Beijing 2008 and went on to qualify for the Paralympics in London 2012.

Justin is a beacon of hope, gratitude and boundless optimism! You absolutely do not want to miss this!

In collaboration with East Coast Radio, South Africa.

Topics - 0:00 Intro 4:07 Justin's rock bottom 14:25 Dealing with the physical shock of losing your mobility 16:10 The immediate mental heath challenges after the injury 18:08 The role of acceptance in moving forward 19:53 Using rock bottom as a springboard to move forward 23:23 How does the light get back in? 27:52 Finding your tribe 29:18 Discovering wheelchair basketball 30:53 Representing South Africa in The Olympics 34:30 Where does Justin's positive mindset come from? 36:54 The story we tell ourselves 39:53 Disability & discrimination 42:00 Dating with a disability 44:15 Maintaing a good mental outlook 48:20 Advice for anyone feeling stuck in their life This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: Spotify - https://bit.ly/3Q5Q9Jq Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ YouTube - https://bit.ly/3Mn8MX5 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

[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 her life. You absolutely will not believe how much Jennifer's life has changed in the past 16 years! Join the conversation RIGHT NOW you absolutely do not want to miss this!! A huge thank you to Jen for being so brutally honest - her story will inspire and fill you with hope and joy & her journey is bullet proof evidence that you can turn any sutuation into a positive one - I am proud to know you Jen and to call you a friend ❤️ More on Jen - Jennifer has been a Clean Break Theatre Company member since 2010 - recently performing Hear by Deborah Bruce at The House of Lords. Other stage credits include Phyllida Lloyd’s Shakespeare Trilogy for the Donmar Warehouse, Paradise at the National Theatre & Inside Bitch at The Royal Court. TV & Film include Topboy, My Mad Fat Diary, Honey Trap, Riches & You Used To Be Famous. As a potent advocate for Arts in Prisons, she takes part in outreach programmes about penal issues and is an Ambassador for Women In Prison. Jen is currently working on developing her new theatre company call Nubian CoHearts and is working towards its first complete showing sometime this year. Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:05 Jen's rock bottom 3:50 How Jen went from being an accountant to selling drugs 7:30 Jen's connections to Griselda Blanco 8:20 Why Jen chose drug dealing at 16 13:30 Can you just "leave" drug dealing? 15:55 Jen's recovery from using crack 21:12 Can you be a functioning drug addict? 23:28 Stopping using crack whilst also selling it 24:30 Jen using a higher power and acting to trimph over crack addiction 32:10 "My acting career took off because I went to jail!" 33:20 How does the crack buzz & acting buzz compare for Jen? 35:10 How does the drug dealing world compare to the entertainment industry? 37:20 Getting support from acting agency 39:20 The sensitive/actor side to Jen vs being a drug boss 44:00 Working on Topboy 48:00 Working in women's prisons as an ambassador 52:20 Can Jen forgive herself? This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Jen Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gemzgirl Follow Nubian Co-heARTs https://instagram.com/nubiancohearts Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3wCI3R3 YouTube - https://bit.ly/49UqvOM Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

[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 with many pubs where people would finish work on a Friday and drink all weekend. It felt like there was never an option not to drink - that at 16 you leave school, 17 you learn to drive and 18 you go to the pubs. Kai did this for many years and became away to manage anxiety, which leads to his rock bottom, serving as a catalyst for completely changing his lifestyle. A compelling story on how his drinking slowly destroyed his life, how he stays "stopped" and the incredible benefits and joys of a sober lifestyle. Since his rock bottom, the only way has been up and he's never looked back. 0:00 Intro 3:19 Kai's rock bottom 7:40 The effects of not sharing your problems 10:55 How the alpha male environment shapes your way of coping with anxiety 14:00 The start of drinking 17:08 Kai's time at drama school and going into work 22:33 Mental health, alcohol and medication 25:38 Addiction is a progressive illness 30:12 Making better choices 34:20 Changing the culture of going out 40:40 How good mental health benefits your loved ones 44:30 Dealing with feelings of anxiety and vunerability 49:48 Inspiration to reach out for help If you are struggling with alcohol please contact your nearest NHS alcohol service - https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/find-alcohol-addiction-support-services/ This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Kai - Instagram - http://bit.ly/43nqUqE Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: YouTube - https://bit.ly/3KPfF1M Spotify - http://bit.ly/419FbW8 Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out.

[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 time and, often, much therapy and support to get them where they are today. This episode is quite different as T messaged me on social media wanting support for herself AND to share her story - however, she is still very much in the process and somewhat raw, only looking now to seek therapy and further healing. This lens will speak to many in the same boat and I congratulate T for her bravery and generosity to come and speak with us all. During the pandemic, T's mum was in Italy and suddenly and, completely without warning, died in her sleep leaving her having to deal with the pain and grief of her passing whilst in and out of lockdown. Broke and isolated, T had to start a fundraising campaign to arrange a flight to Italy and also rescue her mum's dog. Estranged from her father, who told her they was transgender aged 16, T's mental health spiralled into a grief triggered depression that led to suicidal thoughts. Today, T is in a much, much stronger place but is open to starting therapy and suspects she may be suffering from complex grief. With the help of her friends and her creativity T has found herself in a position where she wants to tell her story to help others know they are not alone in their pain. Delving deeply into the human psyche and back out again, T writes in faith that she can change the world, belly by belly. She speaks of political hypocrisies that we sit on so comfortably, she talks of the relationship to ego, to art, to the process, and to each other. She is also a visual artist, and held her debut solo exhibition in 2022 for Leeds Poetry Festival. T is both the poetry and the painting, the words and the vision, the chaos and the calm - nunaced and authentic, this artist will change the world, belly by belly if it’s the last thing she does. Currently working on various collaborative projects under the name Finding T.M/O - and performing at various festivals over 2023 including Rosa Festival. Topics 0:00 Intro 2:24 T's rock Bottom 9:50 Family relationships 12:50 Funding strength in oneself 16:38 Are there 5 stages of grief? 24:09 Complicated/complex/prolonged grief 28:06 What things have helped you in your grieving process? 32:40 T's parent coming out as transgender 36:15 Advice for those starting out working in the creative arts This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode we recommend contacting the following organisations: https://www.meetup.com/bereavement-support-group/ Follow T Instagram - https://instagram.com/t.m___o Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TM0nterisi Twitter - https://twitter.com/T_monterisi Website - https://shineliketmo.com Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on:  Spotify - https://bit.ly/44P1fHe YouTube - https://youtu.be/Z7arhSYC10s Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

Today, 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 dangerous. MK explains why 0% booze has no place in her recovery and how she let go of the idea that normal drinkers have something to be jealous of. She also talks about why she proudly calls herself an alcoholic, using the word as a tool for empowerment rather than shame.

Getting sober in your twenties comes with its own challenges, from navigating dating to tackling ADHD in recovery, and Mary Kate lays out exactly what that journey looked like for her. She shares what worked, what didn’t, and the solution that finally set her free. If you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol, this episode will give you clarity, hope, and a roadmap to freedom.

Thank you to Gavin Sisters for sponsoring this episode! Visit -
www.gavinsisters.co.uk
and use promo code SCHOOLOFROCKBOTTOM for 10% off!

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1
Or via PayPal - https://www.paypal.me/olivermason1paypal

Topics -
0:00 Intro
4:15 MK's rock bottom
7:30 Can't live with alcohol and can't live without it?
10:25 Alcoholism is progressive?
12:15 Blackouts
14:30 Is the word alcoholic dirty?
26:35 Why 0% booze has no place in MK's recovery
28:45 What is the invisible line?
30:30 Hospitalisation from alcohol
32:15 Why there is no need to be jealous of 'normal' drinkers'
35:45 Getting sober IN YOUR 20'S!?
39:15 Putting in boundaries
41:15 First year sober vibes
45:45 MK's solution to her alcoholism
47:15 What is a pink cloud?
50:40 ADHD and addiction

Follow MK
Instagram - www.instagram.com/marykatejoanharington
Twitter - Mary-KateMKJH
Times article - https://tinyurl.com/5n98y4f3

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#AlcoholRecovery
#GenZSobriety
#SoberCurious

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, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons. Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: YouTube - https://bit.ly/4fieNQC Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3YHbGfC Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ This podcast is not for profit and my goal is to break even. To help me make more episodes, please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - http://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Follow David: Instagram - http://bit.ly/3ZJZMQJ Twitter - http://bit.ly/3QNntDs #theinbetweeners #alcoholism #recovery

[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 to help her deal with overthinking, anxiety, workaholism, stress, imposter syndrome and toxic relationships. One day, she stared at a glass of wine and for the first time in her life had the the thought that she didn't want to live anymore. In this moment, she decided she never wanted to feel like this again and made plans to quit alcohol forever. After a relapse, she tried again and has been sober since December 2020. For anyone who is sober curious or wanting to stop completely - Georgina generously shares her story to help you find the courage to take life by the scruff of the neck and gain control. Topics - 00:00 Intro 2:53 Georgina's Rock Bottom 5:44 Not feeling able to talk about alcohol problems 8:28 Feeling like my feelings aren't valid compared to other people 9:33 The role of anxiety 11:38 Racing thoughts, over thinking and alcohol use 12:44 Alcohol becoming a way to cope 20:15 A toxic relationship with oneself 20:59 Imposter Syndrome and fear of failure 25:25 Links to childhood 28:00 Using work as a coping strategy and it becoming addictive 31:30 Coping with the ups and downs of the entertainment industry 36:16 How Georgina stopped drinking 40:25 Coping with anxiety without alcohol 43:28 Life without alcohol 45:18 Advice for those just graduating from drama school If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode Georgina recommends the following - MIND - 0300 1233393 and email: info@mind.org.uk The Samaritans - phone 116 123  The Farm - www.thefarmdayhab.com The Amy Winehouse Foundation - www.amywinehousefoundation.org This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Oliver - Instagram - http://bit.ly/3ZMGt9u Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Follow Georgina - Instagram - https://bit.ly/3KnKr2A Twitter - https://bit.ly/3lVe81w Listen to her music Apple - https://apple.co/3mivhSZ Spotify - http://bit.ly/3mqbf94 Listen or watch on - YouTube - http://bit.ly/40UmdCE Spotify - http://bit.ly/3lVjzOa Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out. We will also be discussing how to protect your mental health whilst working within the creative industriesindustriesindustriindustriesindustries

[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 for 4 years and has been working in the industry ever since. Kelly's journey starts as a teenager landing a modelling opportunity in Japan that triggers a slow and dangerous decent into chronic bulimia that nearly takes her life on more than one occasion. Kelly spends her twenties in and out of recovery desperately looking for a solution that seems out of reach. She never gives up despite her struggles and finally finds a solution that works for her to break free. Kelly is a bulimia survivor, a hero and an inspiration. I cannot thank Kelly enough for opening up so honestly to help others. If you are affected by the sensitive content or are looking for useful resources, Kelly recommends contacting Julie Kerr @ www.bulimiafree.com and the following books 👇   'Brain Over Binge' by Kathryn Hansen and 'Women, Food and God' by Geneene Roth.

Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:42 Kelly's rock bottom 8:10 More rock bottoms 9:32 Puberty & coping with dyslexia 11:30 Kelly starts modelling at 14 17:57 The slippery slope to Bulimia 19:08 The start of bulimia 21:53 Getting into acting 26:35 Why acting didn't cure bulimia 31:50 Bulimia getting worse and addiction to purging 36:48 The role of sugar and foods 40:30 Reaching out for help but really struggling 49:40 Finding solutions 59:30 Dealing with rejection as an actor 1:04 What would you say to your younger self?   This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Kelly - Instagram - http://bit.ly/3JjHWhm TikTok - http://bit.ly/3Zwy2hL Follow Oliver - Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on - YouTube - http://bit.ly/3ZHrVYi Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3Z0Pr1r Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out. We will also be discussing how to protect your mental health whilst working within the creative industries.

[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 to recovery. He founded the Run4YourMind Foundation and Lights On Mental Health, and co-founded Talks for Change Company, delivering talks and training worldwide to offer hope to those facing mental health challenges. Huge thanks Oly! ❤️ Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:57 Oly's rock bottom 7:40 Red flags at 7 years old 13:04 OCD & ADHD as a teen 15:20 Masking problems at school 19:08 OCD & depression symptoms increasing into adulthood 25:00 Talking to break the stigma 27:55 Agoraphobia & then moving countries 30:50 The beginning of hope & running 43:15 Run for your mind! 50:15 The building blocks of Oly's recovery For anyone struggling, Oly recommends Hub of Hope (alonside your GP) - https://hubofhope.co.uk This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Oly Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/run4yourmind LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/oly-newton Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3RaNm1C YouTube - https://bit.ly/3x4WOg7 Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ #ocd #depression #anxiety

[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 behaviour post-breakups, Livvie delves into the profound impact that these toxic patrerns had on her mental health and sense of self-worth. Tackling themes of abandonment, obsession, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Livvie's story offers a poignant exploration of finding resilience and hope amidst struggles with addiction. Huge thanks, Livvie! Topics 0:00 Intro 2:45 Livvie's rock bottom 11:55 What is a 'qualifier' in love addiction? 14:45 How childhood shaped Livvie's love addiction 20:15 Why it took 10 more years to understand it was love addiction 27:15 What makes Livvie a love addict? 34:30 How recovery started 38:20 What is "bottom line" behaviour/acting out? 43:30 What does future relationships look like and making amends 45:35 Biggest lessons learnt from the rock bottom 48:20 How common is love addiction? 51:15 Acting as a means to escape For anyone struggling with these topics Livvie suggests reaching out to: SLAA - https://slaauk.org This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Livvie Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/maylivvie Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/4euLvi3 YouTube - https://bit.ly/3XrV0Zj Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

Too 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 discuss the shift from victim to survivor to hero, why rock bottom can be the springboard to growth and the power of choosing movement over stagnation. He also shares how helping others can help heal yourself. If you’re in a dark place right now, this one’s for you.You’re not alone. Just take one step forward.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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons. Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1Or via PayPal - https://tinyurl.com/bdxje3eeFollow OliverInstagram - https://tinyurl.com/2vt29sjvFacebook - https://tinyurl.com/34cwz59rTikTok - https://tinyurl.com/ujw4vxn9LinkedIn - https://tinyurl.com/yuemhnd7Threads - https://tinyurl.com/yk7vdeahX - https://tinyurl.com/3u5mnpdsWatch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep 18)Listen or watch on: Spotify - https://bit.ly/3Q5Q9JqApple - https://tinyurl.com/y3n2chk3YouTube - https://bit.ly/3Mn8MX5or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. #BeTheMiracle#DisabilityAwareness#MentalHealth

[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, hope, and a new lease of life. A transformed and loving family man, Michael is sowing seeds of hope around the world through speaking events, podcasts and through his charity work helping to reform offenders in prison around the world. He hopes sharing his story of desperation and darkness will encourage others to step into the light. I really, really enjoyed spending time with Michael and his transformation is extremely powerful - I felt nothing but intense love and hope coming from the soul of this man. A huge thank you. Topics 0:00 Intro 3:30 Michael's rock bottom 8:10 Darkness vs light 18:17 Sexual abuse 24:09 What is sex addiction? 27:17 Can you be addicted to crime? 30:45 What prison taught Michael 40:54 What does 'holy sprit' mean to Michael? 46:45 Can Michael forgive himself? 49:55 Michael's incredible charity work and helping others 52:30 Rock bottom gives hard learned lessons This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Michael Instagram - https://instagram.com/michaelemmettofficial TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelemmettofficial Twitter - https://twitter.com/MichaelEmmettUK Facebook - https://facebook.com/MichaelEmmettOfficial YouTube -https://youtube.com@/MichaelEmmettOfficial Buy Michael's book- https://amzn.to/3qTGgEO Michael's LinkTree - https://linktr.ee/michaelemmett Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: YouTube - https://bit.ly/3Ej2WkQ Spotify - https://bit.ly/3OWUr3R Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out!

Join 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 emotional roots of addiction, this conversation offers hope and tools for true healing. More on Lauran - Lauran is an Emotional and Mental Wellness Therapist, Healer, and Teacher. She believes that healing emotional disturbances requires a capacity for insight. With a background in western Psychology, Lauran has gained a deep understanding of the diagnostic process. However, she believes that true healing comes from exploring the emotional and mental aspects of life, delving into the insights that help maintain emotional regulation. According to Lauran, individuals function optimally when they integrate all aspects of themselves. They can exist with quiet confidence and inner knowing when their internal world and external lives are in alignment. Lauran teaches individuals how to harness the power of their internal psycho-emotional landscape, navigate emotional storms, actualize their uniqueness, and approach life with resilience, power, and presence, regardless of the challenges they may be facing. Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:10 Lauran's rock bottom 5:15 Addiction to substances & people 6:20 Intense emotional pain 8:20 Addiction is the solution? 12:40 Withdrawal from another person 17:45 Let's peel the layers off the onion! 22:45 What is emotional fluency? 24:35 Putting in boundaries 27:15 Making emotions manageable 28:15 Why are so many creatives addicts? 31:00 Do addicts brains go 'higher'? 35:50 Why manifesting is nonsense! 42:05 What is Lauran struggling with at the moment? 47:00 The rise of porn addiction This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Lauran Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lauranware https://www.instagram.com/comehealing Website - www.comehealing.co.uk Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Please subscribe, follow, like, leave a review and comment! YouTube - https://bit.ly/3YUw1yo Spotify - https://bit.ly/3YvRkVr Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

I 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.

Today, Malin is sharing a deeply personal UNHEARD part of her journey, as always, to help others in the same situation whilst also adding futher insights into how she survived all that life has thrown at her so far.

Malin is an absolute thunderbolt of good vibes and you will come away filled with so much strength and a feeling that you can get through this and you can become strong - no matter what you are going through. Malin - thank you so much ❤️

More on Malin -
Malin rose to stardom on Love Island UK and uses her huge following to spread mental health awereness and is a body positivity campaigner, who works tirelessly to spread positivity and joy despite having had to cope with so much pain and trauma in her own life.

Devastating, inspiring and enlightening. You must watch this!

Topics -
0:00 Intro
02:05 Malin's rock bottom
05:15 Binge drinking to cope
10:25 Fear of abandonment
17:14 Life lessons from hardships
19:30 Spirituality as a tool for strength
21:43 How to fill up the hole in your soul
26:30 The dangers of social media
27:40 Taking the mask off & being authentic
30:10 Attracting the right type of partner & energy
36:00 How to stay connected to your truth
37:19 What do you really control?
39:10 How Malin had a spiritual awakening through meditation & gratitude
41:57 ADHD, depression & medication
43:47 Using pain as a learning experience
45:35 Finding purpose from the hardships
47:45 Rejection is a redirection!
52:00 How Malin is staying sober
56:55 Mental health topics Malin is passionate about
58:10 The biggest learning from hitting rock bottom

Further support -
https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help-now

This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you!
https://bit.ly/3kSucAs

Follow Malin
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/missmalinsara
TikTok-https://www.tiktok.com/@malin_sara_andersson
Malin's book - https://amzn.to/4baEm56

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Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review)
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Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

#loveisland #bingedrinking #recovery

Thinking 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 his life. Dave shares what is really means to be sober, what to say when someone asks why you don't drink, we talk zero alcohol beers and we even compare Drunk Dave to Sober Dave! Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you! https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1 Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:15 Dave's rock bottom 5:15 Why Dave had had enough and decided to stop drinking 9:15 Early sobriety inspires hope that it will keep getting better 10:05 How Dave stayed stopped 13:15 Using Dry January as a platform 16:15 Dave's progression from weekend drinker to 1LTR of vodka a day 20:15 What does is mean to be SOBER? 23:10 Dry drunk & cross addiction 27:30 Step 1 & 12? 29:15 Staying grounded whilst being so well known 33:30 Zero beer?! 37:45 What to say when people say why aren't you drinking? 41:40 Is SOBER DAVE allowed to relapse?! 43:15 Drunk Dave VS Sober Dave 49:15 Romanatising death and what Dave really wants on his gravestone Follow Sober Dave Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/soberdave Website - https://www.soberdave.co.uk Podcast - Search "One For The Road" on all platforms Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Please subscribe, follow, like, leave a review and comment! YouTube - https://bit.ly/3VSPOw9 Spotify - https://bit.ly/402S5Hs Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

Do Dry Jan with @alcoholchangeuk here -

https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january

Lastly, if you are interested in performing arts and incredible stories and journeys you must check out Matthew Jones' excellent podcast 'Life After Jazz Hands' here - https://bit.ly/4iQ7Nxa #SoberLiving #DryJanuary #AlcoholRecovery

[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 support of her loved ones, she managed to conquer her demons. Through this ordeal, Ria learned that even in the darkest moments, you can discover inner strength and freedom and she shares it all to help anyone struggling with OCD, anxiety, worry and intrusive thoughts. Approximately 1-2% of the population in the UK, or around three-quarters of a million people, are affected by OCD, although the actual numbers could be higher due to many keeping their condition hidden. More on Ria - Ria is Co-Artistic Director of Concept Theatre graduating from East 15 Acting School. She is about to appear in The Polar Express in Edinburgh this Christmas and this summer produced the theatre show SONS which sold out at both Vault Festival and Brighton Fringe and has since been nominated for an OffFest award. She has worked with OCD Action & performed her show "I'm Just a Little Bit OCD". The show later toured London in 2022 to Southwark Playhouse, Chickenshed and The Cockpit with support from Arts Council England and The National Lottery Community Fund. She recently recorded "Director of Me", for Radio 4, detailing a month in the life of someone with OCD. Topics - 0:00 Intro 02:27 Ria's rock bottom 12:00 The emotional strain of OCD 14:15 What is OCD? 16:10 Obsessions, intrusive thoughts & seeking reassurance 20:15 The subsets/themes of OCD 24:25 What Is Pedophile OCD? 28:50 The power of sharing your intrusive thoughts 31:26 Breaking the stigma surrounding OCD 33:45 Managing compulsions 38:15 What's the cause of Ria's OCD? 39:50 The role of medication/therapy in OCD recovery 47:35 Dealing with the acting industry & OCD For information and support Ria recommends - https://ocdaction.org.uk https://www.ocduk.org https://www.treatmyocd.com/ This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Ria Instagram - https://instagram.com/riafay Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Riafay94 Twitter/X - https://x.com/RiaFay9 Concept Theatre - https://www.concepttheatre.co.uk Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/49SJeeo Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ YouTube - https://bit.ly/49RrCj1 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

Is 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 anxiety, not relieves it.

The dangerous cycle of "hair of the dog"—and why "just one more" keeps you trapped.

Nicotine and vaping—why quitting is so hard, and how to finally break free

Synthetic alcohol, legalisation, and addiction psychology—are we replacing one problem with another?

How to quit smoking if you still drink—and why it’s harder than you think.

This isn’t just about stopping drinking or smoking—it’s about reclaiming control over your life. Whether you’re struggling with addiction or just questioning your relationship with alcohol, this episode could change everything.

Thank you to Gavin Sisters for sponsoring this episode! Visit -

www.gavinsisters.co.uk

and use promo code SCHOOLOFROCKBOTTOM for 10% off!

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

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Topics -

0:00 Intro

3:40 William's rock bottom

6:10 Binge drinking

7:40 Why hair of the dog is so dangerous

10:55 Alcohol causes stress and tolerance?

12:25 Any positives to alcohol?

14:25 1 in 8 Americans addicted to alcohol?

16:50 0% booze?!

18:40 What about alco-synth & socialising?

25:25 Overcoming social anxiety without booze

28:10 CBD drinks?

29:30 Therapy for alcohol addiction?

34:10 Why nicotine/smoking/vaping is addictive

40:40 Is cigarettes or vaping better for you?

45:40 What is the best way to quit smoking

48:10 How do you stop smoking when you like to drink?!

53:40 Why every cigarette is a hair of the dog!

55:10 The phenomenan of craving

58:10 Should all drugs be legal?

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Thought 3: Living with Bipolar Disorder and Alcoholism – Mark Lockyer's Recovery Journey. In this powerful third episode of "Quick Lessons," actor Mark Lockyer shares his deeply personal journey through untreated bipolar disorder and alcoholism. From the chaos of undiagnosed mental illness to the hope of long-term recovery, Mark reveals the challenges, turning points, and lessons he’s learned along the way offering insights into the reality of living with bipolar disorder, the grip of addiction, and the resilience it takes to rebuild your life. 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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons. Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep3) Youtube - https://bit.ly/4fZrO1S Spotify - https://bit.ly/3FiXuzA Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you! https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1 Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs #RecoveryJourney #AddictionRecovery #BipolarDisorder

For 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 among the 9% of people with alcohol use disorder classified as chronic and severe—it consumed me entirely. 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 recovery is possible. A life beyond your wildest dreams awaits. A huge thank you to guest host Issy Hawkins, who took charge of my podcast and put me in the hot seat. It’s time for me to speak up and inspire those who need it most ❤️ More on Oliver - Oliver began drama classes at the age of six with The Guildhall School of Speech & Drama and got accepted to join The National Youth Theatre aged thirteen. Oliver gained a B.A. (Honours) degree at The University of South Florida & Middlesex University in Drama & Theatre Studies before training as an actor at The Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art. Film/TV credits include: From Bard To Verse (BabyCow/BBC), The Mysti Show Series 1 and 2 (BBC Series Regular), Jam, EastEnders (BBC), Bin Weevils (Nickelodeon), Sinbad: The Persian Prince (SyFy), Untitled A Film (Truk Films), CTRL (Breaking Fourth), BroBots (Samsung Films) Lilybuds (Discovery), Red Dwarf (BabyCow/Dave), Time Rewind (Creation Box Films) & Halo (Amblin/Showtime). West End credits include Bombitty of Errors & Twelfth Night. Voiceovers include: The Disney Channel, Santander, McDonald's, The Samaritans, BBC Worldwide, Virgin Media, eBay, Currys, Morissons, Nissan, Seat, T-Mobile, BT & Kellogs. Topics - 0:00 Intro 1:50 Oliver's rock bottom 7:20 Why is Oliver telling his story now? 8:55 Early recovery challenges physical & mental 12:45 Oliver's relationship to the industry when he was drinking vs recovery 16:30 Is relapse part of recovery? 20:00 The 12 steps was the last thing I wanted to do! 23:15 Is addiction progressive? 28:20 Heavy drinking vs alcoholism 30:30 Relationships with family 30:45 Is addiction a disease? 34:20 Is addiction trying to kill you? 37:10 Dealing with fear, self pity amd anger 44:00 Panic attacks! 48:10 Does Oliver need a recovery community to stay sober? 51:25 Navigating sobriety in a drinking culture society 54:25 What has recovery given you today? For further support I recommend reaching out to your local NHS alcohol service and AA - T: 0800 917 7650 E: help@aamail.org W: https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk Great book for panic attacks - https://www.christineingham.com/panic This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Issy Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@issyhawkins_ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/issyhawkins_ Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/4cFvnIy YouTube - https://bit.ly/3Ts8npR Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ

[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 rehabilitation facility following a suicide attempt after suffering from a major depressive episode. This intervention saved his life and he went on to continue to build a successful career. David is a campaigner for diversity and inclusion and is passionate about mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. Until recently, David was the Vice Chair of Mind (Croydon). David generously shares how he found himself in the depths of depression, how he got out of it, the warning signs of depression 'coming back' and how he maintains his mental health. We also discuss the warning signs of depression and why mental health is a priority in the workplace and how this is achieved. David is a powerhouse of tools and tips on how to prevent and manage depression and also has advice on how to look out for your friends. More about David: David is the Managing Director of Compass Executives and a Board member of Compass Recruitment Solutions (CRS). CRS are an award-winning recruitment solutions business focussed on private companies and investors across the health, care, education and life sciences markets in the UK and internationally. CRS are winners of Health Investor’s Recruiter of the Year Award 2021, 2019 and 2017. In 2022, executive search specialist brand Compass Executives was awarded Health Investor’s inaugural search firm of the year award. Topics - 0:00 Intro 5:13 David's Rock Bottom 07:44 Childhood and Genetics 10:35 The signs of depression 30:38 What helped you come out of your depression? 38:38 Mental health at work 44:50 Depression and medication 48:48 Warning signs to look out for 53:45 Main advice for those that are struggling If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode David suggests the following services: Mind: 0300 123 3393 Samaritans: 116 123 Campaign Against Living Miserably: 0800 58 58 58 CALL (Wales): 0800 132 737 The Mix (Under 25): 0808 808 4994 This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow David Linkdn - www.linkedin.com/in/davidsayers1965 Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: YouTube - https://bit.ly/3MKkU3u Spotify - https://bit.ly/3N5aXPq Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. About this podcast – Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out.

Did 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 abandonment, anxiety, depression, and setting boundaries. Sammy also offers invaluable advice for parents struggling with alcohol, explaining why children can't make their parents sober. Plus, Sammy explains how she got sober in her 20s and what she’s learned from her journey. A must-listen for anyone touched by addiction. More About Sammy - Sammy Kingston is the Co-Founder of Virtual Umbrella and a passionate advocate for children of alcoholics. Since 2018, she’s raised awareness about the effects of alcoholism through talks, films, and community work. She is a Community Champion for Alcohol Change UK and created the VR film Anonymous—an autobiographical project about growing up as a COA, which premiered at Raindance Film Festival. She also shared her story on the TEDx stage in 2022—link in the show notes! Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:05 Sammy's rock bottom 6:55 Isolation & people pleasing 13:05 Approval seeking behaviour 15:30 A victim mentality? 18:00 Fear of abandonment & putting in boundries 19:55 Why children can't get their parents sober 23:30 Fear of authority, depression & anxiety 26:35 Sammy's relationship with alcohol now 34:15 Giving up booze in your 20's 37:15 Being a COA & adulthood 41:35 Can Sammy be TOO loyal & responsible? 43:20 Sammy's letter to her mum 45:50 Who is Sammy wanting to help? 48:25 Looking after yourself 50:15 Words to parents still drinking If you have been affected by these topics, Sammy suggests the following support - Nacoa (For COA): https://coa.nacoa.org.uk Alcohol Change UK: https://alcoholchange.org.uk This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Sammy Twitter/X: https://x.com/K_Samantha1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sammy_kingston_ Ted Talk - https://bit.ly/3Y96OiZ Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Please subscribe, follow, like, leave a review and comment! YouTube - https://bit.ly/3ZTQ3Kf Spotify - https://bit.ly/4eykA4L Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ #ChildOfAnAlcoholic #AlcoholRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness

The 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 episode will give you the tools to stay alcohol and drug-free over Christmas and beyond.

Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:25 What is addiction? 5:40 Lie 1 - There is no problem! 8:13 Lie 2 - There is a problem but the problem wont go away! 12:30 Lie 3 - You ARE your addiction! 15:18 Lie 4 - Addiction is too complicated to understand! 25:31 Lie 5 - Just 1 wont hurt! 29:27 Lie 6 - It will be different this time! 30:23 Lie 7 - No one is here so who will know? 31:48 Lie 8 - Forever is impossible so relapse now! 34:43 Lie 9 - It will be like the "good" days! 36:38 Lie 10 - Drinking/using will make you feel better! 41:00 Lie 11 - If only you were "normal"! 47:19 Lie 12 - You are not enough! This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) YouTube - https://bit.ly/3NuVwzU Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

[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 of dispair. Mark takes us to his rock bottom moment, living through his life with untreated bipolar disorder, suicide attempts, alcoholism, substance misuse and prison - then onto an incredible story of hope and a tremendous recovery. Mark is a hero and is proof that any situation can be turned around. If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode please contact MIND on 0300 1233393 or email: info@mind.org.uk (Mon-Fri 9am - 6pm). If outside these hours, visit: www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/ Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:10 Mark's rock bottom 5:40 How did you get there? 8:03 The early years before diagnosis 12:40 What it is like living with bipolar disorder 21:08 Identifying the negative force inside 25:20 Does addiction stem from mental illness or the other way round? 29:00 How did you get better?

31:50 Dealing with the stigma against mental health 33:05 Alcoholism and suicide attempts 35:35 The road to recovery 37:30 The role of passion and purpose 42:15 Getting his play to The Young Vic 46:03 What is working and not working within mental health 48:40 Advice to protect yourself as a performer and creative This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you. https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Oliver - Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen on - Spotify - https://bit.ly/3FiXuzA Apple - https://apple.co/41IrJt4 or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts. YouTube - https://bit.ly/3leM7BB About this podcast - Welcome to the School Of Rock Bottom Podcast with Oliver Mason. I work as an actor, voice-over artist, Performing Arts School Principal and a Mental Health Coach. It's these careers and passions combined that have inspired this podcast! People working in the entertainment and performing arts industry are twice as likely to experience depression, are up to 15x more likely to suffer from anxiety and those working across all the creative industries are 3x more likely to suffer a mental health problem. In this podcast, we invite creatives who have lived through a rock bottom but have survived! These stories need to be heard to help others realise that no matter how bad things seem there is hope and always a way out. We will also be discussing how to protect your mental health whilst working within the creative industries.

From 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 punishes himself and is in control of a positive mindset. Danny generously shares his journey and has valuable insights and techniques for anyone inside and outside the performing arts industry who struggles with anxiety, rumination, overthinking, imposter syndrome and binge eating. More on Danny - Danny Kirrane is a leading actor in the period drama The Serpent Queen for Starz/Lionsgate co-starring with Samantha Morton and Charles Dance and he has just finished filming the Netflix comedy drama Baby Reindeer. Other lead roles in shows include The Sandman, Wasted, Don’t Forget the Driver & Critical. Other shows include Peterloo, Skins, The Inbetweeners & The Pirates of The Caribbean. Danny has extensive theatre credits including Mark Rylance's West End production of Jerusalem. Danny completed a Physics with Astrophysics Degree at Leeds University before becoming an actor after training with the National Youth Theatre. Topics - 0:00 Intro 1:40 Danny's rock bottom 3:38 Childhood anxiety 6:00 Overthinking, rumination & worry 14:50 Acting & escapism 17:30 Using food to cope 21:20 Self awareness & self acceptance 23:55 Tapping into feeings & therapy 25:30 Understanding food addiction 29:00 Positive self body image 31:20 Filling the hole in the soul 35:30 Learning to cope with Imposter Syndrome whilst being an actor and in life 47:10 Where to get help with food addiction This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Danny Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dannykirrane X - https://x.com/DannyKirrane Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) YouTube - https://bit.ly/3RQ2Rvs Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

In 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 between needing help and receiving it.We also discuss the ongoing process of managing mental health, much like physical fitness—there's no ‘final destination,’ just continuous growth. We also discuss antidepressants, highlighting that while it doesn’t work for everyone, for many, it's a crucial tool in their recovery. This episode is a powerful reminder that vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s the first step towards healing. If you’re struggling, reach out. The right conversation at the right time can be life-changing. 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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons. Follow David Linkdn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/davidsayers1965 Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep10) YouTube - https://bit.ly/3MKkU3u Spotify - https://bit.ly/3N5aXPqDavid Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you! https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1 Or via PayPal - https://bit.ly/3kSucAs #MentalHealthAwareness #DepressionRecovery #BreakTheStigma

Is 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.

Today I'm joined by the incredible Jenny McDonald who empowers serial dieters and emotional eaters to break free from the dieting cycle and find peace with food and most importantly with themselves.Jenny is a certified and accredited Health and Life Coach trained in CBT and energy healing modalities, The Helix Method® and Theta Healing®.

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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons.

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1

Or via PayPal - https://tinyurl.com/bdxje3ee

Follow Oliver

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Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep 11):

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In 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 simple strategy that kept him going: just make it to bedtime without using. It wasn’t about long-term recovery or a bigger goal—just surviving the next few hours. Each clean day became a small victory. Fourteen days turned into fifteen, then sixteen. Without even realising it, he had moved beyond his usual relapse point and entered unfamiliar territory.

If you are struggling with addiction or feeling completely hopeless, this short clip is for you. My guest has a message for anyone in that place of darkness: just focus on getting through today. Get to bed tonight without using. Hope will come, even if you don’t believe it yet. Recovery isn’t always about feeling strong or inspired—it’s about taking it one day at a time.

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, and connection. These shorter clips help us stay connected as a community, while every other Tuesday delivers a full, brand-new episode with fresh stories and lessons.

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1

Or via PayPal - https://tinyurl.com/bdxje3ee

Follow Robert

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Follow Oliver

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X - https://tinyurl.com/3u5mnpds

Watch or listen to the FULL episode here: (School of Rock Bottom Ep 14)

YouTube - https://youtu.be/2qlhqijv3hI

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Apple - https://tinyurl.com/y3n2chk3

#AddictionRecovery

#SobrietyJourney

#CrystalMethRecovery

[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 but recovered harder. Eddy has rebuilt her life and is once again a successful performer, inspiring mother and dedicates her spare time supporting other addicts bringing them back into the light and rebuilding lives. Eddy Queens, take a bow ❤️ More on Eddy: Singer & Actress Eddy Queens was in the original cast of Black Heroes In The Hall of Fame and provided backing vocals for many stars including Omar & Mica Paris. Eddy then signed to EMI and had 2 dance track hits and also made an album with Leee John from the cult band Imagination. Eddy is now an actress-musican with many credits, most recently being seen as ‘Precious’ in Morgan Lloyd Malcolm’s Typical Girls at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre. Topics - 0:00 Intro 3:05 Eddy's rock bottom 9:00 Why did Eddy turn to crack cocaine and sex work? 13:18 The role of escaping pain in addiction 18:15 Why Eddy made the change and forgave herself 21:15 Reclaiming your identity 22:54 How to survive a cut throat business as an addict 26:10 The transferrable skills of addiction 27:50 12 step fellowship and sharing problems 31:07 How to get honest, own your stuff and make amends 33:53 Ending shame and using empathy and your rock bottom to help others 36:06 Finding your tribe 38:12 Theatre gave me my mojo back! 43:30 How does Eddy see herself now? If you've been affected by any of the issues discussed on today's episode Eddy recommends contacting - Narcotics Anonymous - https://ukna.org/ This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Eddy Instagram - https://instagram.com/eddyqueensdiva https://instagram.com/nubiancohearts Website - https://eddyqueensdiva.wixsite.com/eddyqueens Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL Twitter - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm Listen or watch on: Spotify - https://bit.ly/495dEJY Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ YouTube - https://bit.ly/3QdRfkS or search 'School of Rock Bottom' where you listen to your podcasts.

Brandon 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 story isn’t just about overcoming—it’s about thriving in the face of it all. His words, "Anything Is Possible" will forever stay with me. Huge thank you ❤️‍🩹 More on Brandon - Brandon Lee Sears is a performer who has just finished playing alternate Narrator in Passing Strange at Young Vic & as Donkey in The UK Tour of Shrek The Musical, previous theatre credits include starring as Jimmy Early in Dreamgirls the Musical; as well as the original West End productions of Be More Chill, Come From Away, Heathers, Motown the Musical and On the Town at Regents Park. Television and Film includes: Artemis Fowl and Cinderella (Disney); Marriage of Reason and Squalor (Sky Arts); Greta (Metropolitan Films). Topics - 0:00 Intro 2:50 Brandon's rock bottom 8:45 Brandon's traumatic childhood 14:20 Where does Brandon's light come from? 20:00 The challenges of being in foster care & the superpowers 26:50 Performing arts as a superpower 34:05 The challenges of being in the performing arts 38:50 Keep getting on the horse! 45:50 How does Brandon keep his mental health strong? This Podcast is not for profit but my goal is to break even. To help me make more please donate here. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3kSucAs Follow Brandon Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/brandonleesears Follow Oliver Instagram - https://bit.ly/3IemHLY Facebook - http://bit.ly/3w8S1Gx TikTok - https://bit.ly/3YGLsYm LinkedIn - http://bit.ly/3kp4ymC Threads - https://bit.ly/3svw7yL X - http://bit.ly/3GQYj2l Listen or watch on: (please subscribe/follow & rate/review) Spotify - https://bit.ly/3AWejAU YouTube - https://bit.ly/3XgHki8 Apple - https://apple.co/3PajZvQ #addiction #podcast #recovery

Sober 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 from alcohol and rebuild their lives. His book, Walking Back to Happiness: The Secret to Alcohol-Free Living & Well-Being, has inspired countless people to take back control.

In this episode, he shares the strategies that changed everything—from harnessing Positive Psychology to mastering Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). This is an unfiltered conversation about choice, change, purpose and the power of rewriting your story.

Thank you to Gavin Sisters for sponsoring this episode! Visit -www.gavinsisters.co.uk

and use promo code SCHOOLOFROCKBOTTOM for 10% off!

Podcasting is an expensive passion. To help me keep going, I'd really appreciate it if you could buy me a coffee, thank you!

https://buymeacoffee.com/olivermason1

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Topics -

0:00 Intro

2:45 Nigel's rock bottom

4:35 How much alcohol are you REALLY drinking?

9:25 The endless benefits of being alcohol free

13:25 The conspiracy of drinking

17:45 Find your tribe!

19:10 Rewrite the story you tell yourself

27:05 What about willpower or...NLP?!

29:25 The benefits of hypnotherapy for mental health

40:25 Past life regression hypnotherapy?!

41:55 How to find purpose in sobriety

44:45 What do you want written on your gravestone?

Follow Nigel

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Website -https://www.9kmby9am.com

Nigel's book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DLPH36R3/

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#Sobriety #AlcoholFree #SoberCurious