In this powerful and moving episode, we sit down with Poppy, a woman whose journey through addiction, chaos, and healing offers hope and inspiration, especially for young women. Growing up surrounded by addiction and dysfunction in Middlesbrough, Poppy was drawn to the chaos she knew so well. Abuse and domestic violence became a normal part of her life, and alcohol and drugs were her way to cope. She travelled far and wide trying to escape her pain, only to realise she couldn’t outrun herself. Poppy opens up about how chaos once felt safe, how she built stories to survive, and how hard it is to break old patterns. But she’s committed to growth and continues working on herself every day, especially as she strives to become an emotionally available mum for her daughter. Now living in recovery, Poppy reminds us that it’s not all “pink fluffy clouds.” Life still throws challenges, but today she faces them in a far better place. She’s found safety in connection, healing in community, and joy in the small things - like starting her day at the gym and working in a place where she can be herself. Poppy’s recovery has not only changed her life, but also sparked healing in her family. She’s rebuilding her relationship with her dad, and her brother has entered recovery too. Most powerfully, she’s learning to connect with her daughter in a whole new way. This episode is a testament to the power of recovery, the importance of connection, and the resilience of the human spirit. We offer free support across the UK, meeting people wherever they are in their recovery journey - whether reaching out for the first time or seeking continued support with long-term recovery. Our programmes, which include a range of online support and face-to-face events, are shaped and driven by lived experiences of gambling harm. https://www.epicrestartfoundation.org/pages/our-programmes

In this episode, Richie is joined by David McCormack, whose powerful story of resilience and recovery will inspire listeners facing their own struggles. With raw honesty and vulnerability, David shares his journey from a childhood in the care system to battling addiction, as he navigated a chaotic and difficult environment.

In 2011, David reached a breaking point and found the courage to seek help. However, the road to recovery was not without setbacks. After a short reprieve, he was pulled back into old habits, but eventually, he found lasting change through a six-month residential rehab, which became a pivotal moment in his life.

David reflects on his life post-rehab, including the challenges of early recovery, the decline of his mental health, and the strength it took to keep moving forward. Proving that it's never too late to turn things around, David returned to education after leaving school at 12 years old, ultimately earning two degrees.

In addition to his personal achievements, David has been instrumental in creating a social inclusion football league in Merseyside, offering people who’ve faced adversity a chance to rebuild their lives through sport. What started with one league has now expanded into two leagues and over 20 teams, helping countless individuals reclaim their confidence and sense of community.

Despite ongoing challenges in his recovery, including addressing unhealthy behaviours like gambling, David has developed the tools to navigate life’s hurdles. Today, he works to support those leaving the care system, becoming a role model for anyone striving to overcome their past and create a brighter future.

David’s story is one of hope, transformation, and the power of never giving up.

In this episode, Richie sits down with Karen Slater, who shares her journey through addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. From an early age, Karen turned to substances as an escape, hoping they would fill the hole she felt in her soul. Her path led her through various attempts to find fulfilment until she discovered that abstinence was the only sustainable solution for her.

Karen felt a sense of belonging in Alcoholics Anonymous, where the 12-step program gave her the structure, community, and moral guidance she needed to rebuild her life. Through this journey, she began to understand her worth and develop a renewed sense of confidence.

Early in her recovery, Karen dedicated herself to helping others, including her children. However, she realised the importance of setting boundaries, focusing on her own growth and being an example to others. Karen has learned to forgive herself, realising the choices she made, were made so she could survive and led her to where she is today.

Karen’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. After struggling with relapse and resentment, she worked to return to recovery, ultimately channelling her experiences into writing and becoming an author. Her story is a testament to resilience, growth, and the strength it takes to reclaim your life.

Tune in to hear Karen's inspiring story of finding hope, purpose, and the tools that sustain her recovery.

This week, we are honoured to welcome Peter Da Silver, who bravely shares his powerful story of resilience and transformation. Peter opens up about his challenging early years in Middlesbrough, marked by a turbulent childhood, devastating loss, and struggles with substance use. This path led to years of crime and repeated spells in prison, trapping him in a cycle that seemed impossible to break.

But an encounter with an old friend sparked a turning point, showing him that there was another way. Peter began a journey of recovery, supported by rehab and a dedicated lived-experience coach. He speaks candidly about the humbling realisation that he had much to learn if he was going to survive and break free.

Refusing to give up, Peter enrolled in college, earned a degree, secured meaningful work, and even became a published author. His story is a testament to the power of commitment and hard work.

This episode is an inspiring listen for anyone facing their own battles with addiction, recovery, or personal growth, showing that change is possible when you’re ready to embrace it.