Episodes
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In this episode, our guest opens up about her brutal struggle with anorexia and borderline personality disorder—how it began with “healthy habits,” how it spiralled into obsession, and how she’s still learning to live with it. From being hospitalised at 16 to fighting the stigma from medical professionals, this is a raw and unfiltered look into the mind of someone battling an eating disorder.
Growing up, she was a high-achieving perfectionist, praised for her discipline—but behind the praise was pain. What started with calorie counting turned into life-threatening restriction, self-harm, and eventually inpatient psychiatric care. Alongside her battle with food came the emotional chaos of BPD, making her story as complex as it is courageous.
Topics Covered:
• How anorexia starts with good intentions and spirals into control
• The dark side of being praised for looking unwell
• Living with borderline personality disorder and emotional instability
• The crossover between addiction and eating disorders
• Why psychiatric units don’t always help
• The pressure of being the “perfect” patient
• Food obsession, binging, and purging
• What recovery really looks like (and why it’s not a straight line)
• The stigma of invisible illness in the mental health system
• How she’s navigating life beyond the diagnosis
This is an honest, eye-opening discussion that sheds light on the complex realities of anorexia, BPD, and recovery.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, James Talbot opens up about the parts of his story that were hidden behind the party persona. From being bullied at school and masking with bravado, to chasing success, status and stimulation at all costs—this is a raw, reflective conversation about addiction, identity, and healing.
James shares how trauma, ADHD, and the constant need to prove himself led to years of alcohol and drug use, extreme behaviour, and emotional chaos. We talk about the dangers of high-functioning addiction, the impact of private school culture, and what happens when the external world sees confidence, but the internal world is falling apart.
This isn’t just about drugs and alcohol. It’s about the masks we wear, the stories we tell ourselves, and the uncomfortable truth that sometimes it all has to fall apart before we can figure out who we actually are.
Topics Covered:
• How bullying and abandonment shaped his early identity
• The private school culture of status, shame and silence
• Alcohol, drugs and the drive to be “the most fun”
• Why ADHD and addiction so often go hand-in-hand
• The danger of seeking validation through chaos
• Social media, self-worth, and masking pain with performance
• Finding recovery, routine, and a new way of living
• Learning to be okay without being the centre of attention
This conversation digs into the complexity of addiction, trauma, neurodivergence and recovery—offering hope for anyone who feels like they’re always performing but never truly present.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode, Nathan King opens up about his brutal struggle with cocaine addiction—how it started, how it spiralled out of control, and how he finally found a way out. From being held at gunpoint to losing his marriage and nearly destroying his relationships, this is a raw and unfiltered conversation about the devastating impact of addiction.
Growing up, he was always in the spotlight—praised as a performer, thriving in show business, and addicted to the validation. But when the applause stopped, he turned to cocaine to fill the void. What started as a way to keep up with drinking soon became a full-blown addiction that controlled every part of his life.
Topics Covered:
• How childhood praise and validation fuelled addiction
• Moving past relapse
• The moment cocaine took over his life
• Lying, stealing, and losing trust – the cost of addiction
• Being held at gunpoint and the dangers of the drug world
• The lies he told himself to keep using
• Why rehab was the turning point
• The struggle of rebuilding a life after addiction
• The lessons he’s learned about recovery and self-worth
This is an honest, eye-opening discussion that exposes the realities of cocaine addiction and the long road to healing.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The start and end of this episode is one of a sad loss about an amazing man named Sam. Please donate to Sam's hospital here:
https://beaumontfundraising.enthuse.com/pf/100kmforsam?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaafq9V-h2hJo5xA-CIs5HY62mWcDsmFAiIMzmTK9EWJSTK6Aah0hrG2lUs_aem_fZYTae0agtSf5XzW-MjAug
15 years old, he was injecting heroin, caught in a cycle of addiction, crime, and self-destruction. Growing up in Dublin, he quickly became entangled in a dangerous lifestyle—stealing cars, dealing drugs, and doing whatever it took to survive. But no matter how deep he fell, he always believed he was in control.
In this raw and unfiltered conversation, we explore the devastating impact of heroin addiction, the dangers of high-functioning addiction, and the long road to recovery. From hiding his addiction from family to his final moment of surrender, this episode sheds light on the brutal realities of substance abuse and the power of change.
Topics Covered:
• The early signs of addiction and how it spiralled out of control
• Growing up in crime and learning how to steal cars at 12
• The brutal truth about heroin addiction and withdrawal
• High-functioning addiction – how he kept a job while using
• The role of family, guilt, and stigma in addiction
• Why methadone was harder to quit than heroin
• The dangers of relapse and why so many addicts hide their struggles
• How he finally got clean and what recovery looks like today
This is a powerful, eye-opening discussion that challenges common misconceptions about addiction, crime, and the recovery process.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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At just 13 years old, she was smoking crack, serving time in prison, and spiralling into addiction. By 19, she was injecting heroin, caught in a cycle of crime, trauma, and self-destruction. For years, nothing could stop her—not prison, not losing everything, not even the near-death experiences.
In this episode, she shares her unfiltered story of addiction, survival, and the painful road to recovery. From growing up in a stable home to experiencing trauma that sent her down a dark path, we explore what really fuels addiction and why breaking free is so difficult.
Topics Covered:
• The early years – how addiction starts younger than you think
• The brutal truth about crack, heroin, and the cycle of crime
• Prison at 13 – what happens when the system fails you
• How trauma fuels addiction and keeps people stuck
• The moment everything changed – choosing recovery over destruction
• Life after addiction – what it really takes to stay clean
This is a raw, eye-opening conversation that sheds light on addiction, trauma, and the fight to rebuild a life that once seemed lost.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This conversation delves into the profound journey of recovery from addiction, exploring the intricate connections between childhood trauma, neurodivergence, and substance use. The speaker shares personal experiences of fear, self-discovery, and the impact of early life experiences on mental health. Through candid reflections, the discussion highlights the importance of understanding trauma, the role of inner child work, and the challenges faced during teenage years, including substance experimentation and the emotional turmoil that ensues. The conversation ultimately emphasises the need for healing and the complexities of navigating one's past to foster a healthier future. We discuss the tumultuous journey of a woman who transitioned from running pubs at a young age to navigating the complexities of drug dealing, relationships, motherhood, and ultimately, recovery from addiction. It highlights the normalisation of chaos in her life, the struggles of leaving a dangerous lifestyle, and the challenges of rebuilding after hitting rock bottom. Through candid reflections, she shares her experiences of personal growth, the impact of addiction on her family, and her path to finding hope and healing. We explore themes of self-discovery, trauma, and healing. The speaker shares personal experiences of hitting rock bottom, the transformative power of therapy, and the importance of community support. Through somatic practices and alternative healing methods, the discussion talks of the significance of understanding one's body and emotions in the recovery process. The conversation concludes with a message of empowerment, encouraging individuals to rewrite their stories and embrace healing.
Www.lunarspiritwellbeing.com
Www.wellnessonthemove.co.uk
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Dr Asad Raffi's Practise:
https://bit.ly/classapeople
Is ADHD over diagnosed, or are we just beginning to understand it? In this episode, Dr. Asad Rafi breaks down the myths and realities of ADHD, addiction, and mental health. We discuss why ADHD is often misdiagnosed, how it presents differently in men and women, and the real reason people with ADHD chase dopamine.
We also explore the link between ADHD and addiction, the dangers of misinformation on social media, and why traditional diagnostic methods may be failing people. If you’ve ever questioned whether you have ADHD or if the system is getting it wrong, this episode is a must-watch.
Topics Covered:
• What ADHD really is (and what it isn’t)
• The problem with ADHD diagnosis and misdiagnosis
• Why people with ADHD struggle with addiction
• The truth about dopamine and ADHD
• How impulsivity impacts decision-making
• Why ADHD in women is often overlooked
• The dangers of ADHD misinformation on social media
In this conversation, the complexities of ADHD are explored, challenging the traditional labels and misconceptions surrounding the condition. The discussion emphasises the variability in attention, the importance of interest in tasks, and the nuances of impulsivity and hyperactivity. The conversation also highlights the need for a better understanding of ADHD, particularly in relation to anxiety and the evolving nature of the condition as individuals age. We talk about the complexities of ADHD, exploring its symptoms, diagnosis, and the interplay of emotional dysregulation, sleep, stress & sugar. The discussion emphasises the importance of understanding ADHD as a spectrum and the need for comprehensive assessments that consider co-occurring conditions. The look at common misconceptions about ADHD, particularly regarding dopamine levels, and stress the significance of emotional experiences, particularly rejection sensitive dysphoria, in the lives of those with ADHD. We look at the complexities of ADHD, exploring its overlap with autism, the impact on mental health, and the challenges of misdiagnosis. The discussion emphasizes the importance of an individual approach and how medication alone is not the answer. They discuss diet, and lifestyle changes, while also addressing the societal perceptions of ADHD and the need for community support. Dr Asad Rafi shares personal insights and advocacy for better understanding and management of ADHD, highlighting the significance of addressing both mental and physical health aspects.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This conversation delves into the complex journey of addiction, exploring the transition from initial enjoyment to the harsh realities of substance abuse. The speaker reflects on their childhood, the role of humour and performance in their life, and the impact of betrayal and loss due to addiction. Themes of dry sniffing, trust, cynicism, and personal growth are also examined, providing a comprehensive look at the multifaceted nature of addiction and recovery. We talk about the interplay between substance use and social dynamics, and the profound impact on relationships and self-perception. James shares personal anecdotes that highlight the deceptive nature of addiction, the struggle for control, and the journey towards recovery. Themes of paranoia, denial, and the search for connection are explored, culminating in a reflection on the fragility of relationships during times of crisis. We delve into the harrowing journey of addiction, focusing on the speaker's experiences with dry sniffing cocaine, the impact of psychosis, and the challenges faced in his marriage and parenting. It highlights the importance of community and support in recovery, as well as the ongoing struggle with self-acceptance and accountability. The speaker shares insights on the role of therapy, and the transformative power of honesty and connection in the recovery process.
https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/about-aa/what-is-aa/12-steps/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this final episode of 2024, the host reflects on the incredible journey of the Class A People podcast, celebrating its achievements and the community it has built. The episode emphasises the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding addiction, sharing personal stories, and fostering a supportive environment for those in recovery. The Christmas special segment brings humour and light-heartedness as listeners share their funny and embarrassing stories, showcasing the human side of addiction and recovery. The host expresses gratitude for the support received and encourages listeners to continue their journey of self-discovery and sobriety into the new year.
https://al-anonuk.org.uk/
https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/find-a-meeting/
https://www.cocaineanonymous.org.uk/
https://ukna.org/
https://gamblersanonymous.org.uk/
https://classapeople.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This conversation shares an anonymous write in to Class A People from a mothers perspective on dealing with the complexities of a child in active addiction, emphasising the deep-rooted issues of self-worth and trauma that many addicts face. The host also shares personal insights and experiences, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding from parents and loved ones. The discussion also touches on the significance of support systems like Al-Anon for those affected by addiction.
https://al-anonuk.org.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this conversation, the speaker shares their journey to sobriety, reflecting on the influences of childhood, the role of self-worth, and the complexities of alcoholism. They discuss how social environments and work life contributed to their drinking habits, the transition from university to a professional setting, and the eventual realisation of their addiction. The conversation emphasises the importance of understanding personal experiences and the stigma surrounding addiction, highlighting that everyone's journey is unique. This conversation delves into the personal experiences of an individual grappling with alcoholism, particularly in professional settings. The speaker shares vivid anecdotes about their drinking habits, the impact on their work life, and the eventual confrontation from their partner and parents. The narrative highlights the normalisation of alcohol consumption in corporate culture, the struggle to maintain a facade of normalcy, and the pivotal moments that led to the the need for change. Ultimately, it sets the stage for the journey towards recovery and the challenges faced along the way. The speaker shares their harrowing journey through addiction, detailing the chaotic moments leading to their rock bottom & needing help. They discuss the turning point that led them to rehab, the challenges faced during detox, and the ongoing process of recovery. The speaker talks of the importance of therapy, self-awareness, and gratitude in maintaining sobriety. Ultimately, they reflect on the profound changes in their life post-recovery and the ongoing journey of personal growth.
https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/about-aa/what-is-aa/12-steps/
https://www.bacp.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this bonus episode of Class A People, the host introduces a poem titled 'Chained to the Pharmacy,' which explores the struggles of addiction and the feelings of being trapped. The conversation delves into the cyclical nature of addiction, the importance of relearning life skills after recovery, and the need to find joy in sobriety. The host emphasises the significance of self-discovery and the journey towards a fulfilling life beyond addiction.
If you would like to write your story in, please email:
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This conversation delves into the personal journey of an individual grappling with gambling addiction, exploring the evolution of their habits from childhood influences to the chaos of addiction. The speaker shares insights on the impact of online gambling, the consequences of their actions, and the eventual realisation of their addiction. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the underlying issues and the challenges faced during recovery. In this part of the conversation, the speaker reflects on the gradual unravelling of trust that led to their downfall, the consequences of their actions, and the emotional turmoil of facing the police. They discuss their journey towards recovery, the challenges of adjusting to life in prison, and the support they found along the way. The speaker emphasises the importance of honesty and the struggle with mental health during this tumultuous period. In this conversation, the speaker shares their experiences of navigating prison life, the challenges of rehabilitation, and the journey to recovery from addiction. They discuss the mental toll of being incarcerated, the lack of adequate support systems, and the importance of personal growth and coping mechanisms in overcoming addiction. The speaker encourages the need for self-awareness and the continuous effort required to maintain recovery, highlighting the role of community and support in this process.
https://gamblersanonymous.org.uk/
https://gamban.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This episode is a heartfelt tribute to Sam Elliott, a young man who tragically lost his life at the age of 24. The host shares personal stories about Sam, highlighting his journey of recovery from addiction and the positive impact he had on those around him. The conversation emphasises the importance of kindness, the unpredictability of life, and the legacy we leave behind. Through Sam's story, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own lives, the connections they make, and the importance of living in the moment. Rest in abundant peace Sam.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this conversation, the guest shares their journey from childhood struggles with identity and eating disorders to their experiences in the army and subsequent battles with addiction and PTSD. They discuss the impact of their past with drug dealing and onto their present, the coping mechanisms they developed, and the importance of self-awareness in recovery. The conversation highlights the complexities of addiction, the role of relationships, and the ongoing challenges of mental health. This conversation delves into the harrowing journey of addiction, the struggles faced during recovery, and the transformative power of seeking help. The speaker shares personal experiences of heavy drug use, the impact on family, the challenges of life in prison, and the eventual realisation that change is necessary. Through rehab and support, they discover the importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and gratitude in rebuilding their life and relationships.
https://ukna.org/
https://www.tiktok.com/@scottpurefitness?lang=en
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This conversation explores the complex journey of love and addiction, detailing the experiences of a partner of a recovering addict. It highlights the challenges faced, the emotional turmoil, and the growth that comes from navigating a relationship intertwined with addiction. The speaker shares personal anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of support, understanding, and the reality of living with someone who struggles with substance abuse. Ultimately, it is a story of resilience, love, and the ongoing journey of recovery.
https://www.tiktok.com/@maisiejrdalrymple?lang=en
https://www.tiktok.com/@nobeernogearr?lang=en
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this conversation, the speakers explore the complexities of addiction, childhood experiences, and the impact of family dynamics on personal growth. They discuss their struggles with ADHD, the challenges of school, and the effects of parental relationships, particularly in the context of divorce. The conversation also delves into the role of therapy in recovery and the allure of drugs during university life, highlighting the misconceptions surrounding addiction and the journey towards self-acceptance and healing. In this conversation, the speaker reflects on their journey through substance use, the illusion of control they felt while managing their academic and social life, and the cognitive dissonance that allowed them to deny the severity of their addiction. The conversation highlights the complexities of addiction, the challenges of seeking help, and the importance of confronting reality. This conversation delves into the personal journey of addiction, exploring the struggles, realisations, and the path to recovery.
https://www.cocaineanonymous.org.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This bonus episode of Class A People delves into the personal story of an individual grappling with addiction to Xanax, a commonly prescribed benzodiazepine. The speaker shares their harrowing experiences with the drug, detailing how it has affected their relationships, mental health, and overall life. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of prescription drug use in society, particularly in the U.S., where millions are prescribed Xanax. The episode concludes with a call for awareness and caution regarding the use of such medications, especially when mixed with other substances.
https://www.ukdrugtesting.co.uk/collections/test-kits-for-drugs?page=5&srsltid=AfmBOorTNJAzNlhCYHw6GJfOwom1nVupM3r3zFS_-wCr3xPcC7zbSOpV
https://www.ukat.co.uk/addiction/drug/prescription/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this conversation, the speakers delve into their personal experiences with ADHD, exploring the challenges of diagnosis, the impact of childhood education, and the intersection of neurodivergence with creativity and business. They discuss societal perceptions of ADHD, the stigma surrounding it, and the importance of understanding the condition beyond surface-level traits. The conversation highlights the need for greater awareness and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing that ADHD is not merely a label but a complex condition that affects many aspects of life. In this conversation, the speaker shares their personal journey with ADHD and autism, discussing the challenges of diagnosis and the impact on their life and relationships. They introduce their dating app, Mattr, designed to foster deeper connections by allowing users to share their mental health struggles upfront. The discussion also touches on the addictive nature of dating apps, the concept of hypersexuality in ADHD, and the importance of embracing neurodiversity in today's society.
https://www.mattr.social/
@mattr.social
@datingwithjamie_
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This episode features an anonymous story detailing the struggles with body dysmorphia, eating disorders, and the journey through addiction, particularly with ketamine. The speaker shares their experiences of trauma, the impact of substance abuse as a form of escapism, and the eventual realisation of the need for help. The conversation emphasises the importance of awareness around addiction and the possibility of recovery, highlighting the emotional connections individuals have with substances.
If you would like to share your story please email: [email protected]
https://www.turning-point.co.uk/
https://www.ukat.co.uk/addiction/drug/ketamine/
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4dSIa1OkQHOSdkyTLDZMhM?si=c6abf481f13a4d58
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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