Class A People

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 diagnosisThis 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.

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-worthThis 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.

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 cleanThis 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.

Dr Asad Raffi's Practise:https://bit.ly/classapeopleIs 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 mediaIn 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The conversation explores the journey of an individual through childhood, teenage rebellion, the loss of a parent, and the subsequent choices that led to a life of stripping and addiction. It delves into the complexities of relationships, the impact of early experiences on adult behaviour, and the evolution of personal identity, including the realisation of being polyamorous. The discussion highlights the interplay between addiction, mental health, and the search for connection and control. In this conversation, the speaker delves into their personal experiences with addiction, relationships, and recovery. They explore themes of power dynamics, the normalisation of abuse in the industry, and the struggle for control in their life choices. The discussion highlights the impact of past relationships, particularly with parental figures, on their current behaviour and choices. The speaker reflects on the challenges of accountability in recovery, the cyclical nature of addiction, and the complexities of motherhood while navigating their past. Ultimately, the conversation reveals the intricate interplay between personal history, addiction, and the journey towards healing and self-acceptance. They discuss the normalisation of drug use in social settings, the struggles of maintaining sobriety, and the transformative power of community and purpose in recovery.If you would like to come on the Class A People Podcast please email: classapeople1@gmail.comHelpful Links:https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/about-aa/what-is-aa/12-steps/ https://www.cocaineanonymous.org.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Scott shares his profound journey through childhood trauma, family dynamics, and the struggles of addiction. He reflects on his painful upbringing, the impact of violence and neglect, and the role of his siblings in providing support. As he navigates through school and early encounters with substance abuse, Scott reveals his search for belonging and acceptance. His journey leads him to become a farrier, but the allure of drugs and the challenges of addiction continue to shape his life. Ultimately, Scott's story is one of resilience, personal growth, and the ongoing battle with addiction. In this conversation, the speakers delve into their experiences with addiction, exploring the thrill of sneaky behavior, memorable drug experiences, and the fun and havoc that often accompany drug use. They discuss the deep connections formed among addicts, the complexities of relationships affected by addiction, and the journey from partying to recognising alcoholism. The conversation also touches on the impact of love on addiction, navigating dangerous situations in drug culture, and the importance of self-reflection in acknowledging past behaviors and their consequences. This conversation delves into the complexities of addiction, personal growth, and the impact of relationships on recovery. The speaker reflects on their journey through resentment, responsibility, and the transformative power of sobriety. Key themes include the importance of understanding emotions, the role of family dynamics, and the realization of self-worth in the context of recovery.https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, the anonymous speaker shares her experiences as the partner of an addict, discussing the complexities of love, trust, and recovery. She reflects on her childhood influences, the challenges of navigating a relationship with someone struggling with addiction, and the impact of substance use on family dynamics. The conversation delves into the struggles of honesty and trust, the role of therapy in recovery, and the difficult decisions faced when love and addiction intertwine. This conversation delves into the complexities of navigating relationships affected by addiction. The speaker shares personal experiences of supporting a partner through recovery, highlighting the emotional challenges, the importance of communication, and the need for connection. The discussion emphasises the significance of understanding addiction, recognising behavioural patterns, and the necessity of mutual trust and support in relationships. The speaker also offers practical advice for partners of addicts, stressing the importance of open dialogue and the willingness to seek help.https://ukna.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.