#44 - Michelle Heaton: Addiction, Balance, Celebrity Mastermind, Body Shaming, Threat Of Relapse, Sobriety Milestones & Reality Show Realities Believe In People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma podcast

1:02:26

Matt speaks with Woody, the National Connecting Communities Lead at Change Grow Live , who shares a candid account of his journey through addiction, recovery, and professional development. Woody reflects on the early signs of substance use in his teens and the emotional undercurrents that led him to rely on substances as a coping mechanism. He discusses his progression through various drugs, including butane gas, cannabis, hallucinogens, and ultimately alcohol, which became his most destructive dependency. Woody describes the personal impact of addiction on his life, including strained family relationships, disconnection from his children, and the loss of his physical and emotional wellbeing. He talks about hitting rock bottom, including a significant turning point involving arrest and hospitalisation, which prompted him to seek detox and begin a new phase of recovery. Woody speaks with honesty about the shame, isolation, and denial that often accompany substance misuse. A significant part of Woody’s recovery has been grounded in spirituality, nature, and meaningful connection with others. He shares how his introduction to a spiritual philosophy helped replace his dependency on substances with a sense of purpose and guidance. He also emphasises the vital role of the recovery community and the importance of peer support in sustaining long-term wellbeing. Now in a leadership position, Woody explores the challenges and opportunities of being open about lived experience within professional settings. He reflects on stigma, disclosure, and the need to shift organisational cultures to recognise the value of lived experience as an asset. This episode offers insight into personal growth, systemic change, and the power of recovery to transform lives. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#64 - Chris De Banks: Not Saints, Music & Recovery, 90s Drug Culture, Alcohol Dependency, The Creativity Myth, The Stigma of Addiction & Building a Sober Music Community 42:32

4 weeks ago42:32

42:32

In this episode, Matt speaks with Chris De Banks , the founder of Not Saints , the UK’s only not-for-profit record label dedicated to supporting musicians in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. Chris shares his personal journey through addiction, from growing up in the music-fuelled 90s drug culture to battling alcohol dependency and substance use in the music industry. He discusses the myths surrounding creativity and addiction, the glamorisation of substance use in media and pop culture, and how these influences shape young people’s choices. The conversation also explores the realities of addiction, the turning point that led Chris into recovery, and his mission to create a sober music community through Not Saints. Chris details the work of the label, including providing creative opportunities for musicians in recovery, delivering workshops, and organising sober music events across the UK. With insights into stigma, recovery advocacy, and the intersection of music and healing, this episode offers an in-depth look at how creative expression can support long-term recovery and change the narrative around addiction. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#63 - Daniel Ramson: Talk2BigDan, Addiction Accountability, Pervert Powder, Drug-Induced Psychosis, The Power of Discipline, Personal Responsibility & Why Rehab Isn’t His Answer 48:07

6 weeks ago48:07

48:07

In this controversial and unfiltered episode of Believe in People , Matt sits down with Daniel Ramson - better known as TalkToBigDan to explore his unconventional approach to recovery. Unlike traditional services, Dan skips waiting lists, therapy rooms, and medical interventions. Instead, he delivers straight-talking and tough-love coaching rooted in his own lived experience. From partying with rock stars and being sectioned to becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after addiction coaches, Dan shares his raw and deeply personal journey. He challenges the notion that addiction is a disease, arguing instead that it’s a choice requiring discipline, accountability, and structure. His no-nonsense philosophy has helped countless people turn their lives around, and in this episode, he doesn’t hold back. Expect candid conversations about drug-induced psychosis, the impact of addiction on families, and the hard truths of recovery. Whether you agree with Dan’s approach or not, this episode will challenge your perspective and spark important discussions about what truly works in recovery. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#62 - John Levesley: Hull And Yorkshire Daily, Binge Drinking, Strength in Solitude, Social Media Impact on Connection, Cosmetic Transformation & Authenticity in a Digital World 1:03:00

9 weeks ago1:03:00

1:03:00

John’s story is one of transformation, self-awareness, and the pursuit of authenticity. Once caught in the cycle of binge drinking and substance-fuelled nights, he reached a turning point—a moment of realisation at five in the morning, surrounded by people and a lifestyle he no longer resonated with. Though he never identified as an alcoholic, John recognized that alcohol had a profoundly negative impact on his life, pushing him toward change. With a newfound clarity, John embraced sobriety, replacing the chaos of drinking with a passion for photography and storytelling. What began as a personal outlet soon evolved into something greater - Hull and Yorkshire Daily , a widely followed social media platform that captures the beauty, history, and essence of his city. His creative vision became a source of purpose, allowing him to connect with his surroundings and his audience in a meaningful way. Beyond photography, John’s journey of self-discovery has led him to explore personal growth, psychology, and the importance of environment. He speaks candidly about cutting out negativity, redefining social circles, and finding strength in solitude. His transformation extends beyond mindset—he has undergone cosmetic procedures, reshaping his outward appearance to reflect the inner change he has undergone. John’s story is not just about quitting alcohol - it’s about reclaiming identity, embracing self-improvement, and proving that personal growth is a lifelong journey. Through his work and his platform, he continues to inspire others to seek change, challenge societal norms around drinking culture, and create a life that aligns with their values. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#61 - Paul Haley: Heroin Addiction, Lived Experience Catalyst, Challenging Stigma, Imposter Syndrome & Advocacy In Recovery Services 1:08:17

11 weeks ago1:08:17

1:08:17

Paul Haley’s journey is one of transformation, resilience, and purpose. Once caught in the grips of heroin and crack cocaine addiction, Paul reached a devastating rock bottom - an injecting injury that nearly cost him his arm. Faced with the harsh reality of where his addiction had taken him, he made the life-altering decision to turn things around. With sheer determination, Paul rebuilt his life, channelling the same relentless drive that once fuelled his addiction into something positive. He pursued education, found purpose in helping others, and ultimately carved out a career in the very system that once supported his recovery. Now, with nearly two decades of sobriety, Paul serves as Change Grow Live’ s National Service User Involvement Lead , using his lived experience to challenge stigma, empower service users, and advocate for meaningful change in drug and alcohol treatment services. Paul’s story is not just about overcoming addiction - it’s about proving that recovery is more than just abstinence. It’s about rediscovering identity, reshaping perceptions, and demonstrating that those with lived experience are not defined by their past but by the strength they show in rebuilding their future. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#60 - Matthew Butler: Believe in People Collaboration, Amy Goldberg, Caitlin Morrison, Stigma, Rock Bottom Threshold & The Matthew Perry Foundation 34:01

12 weeks ago34:01

34:01

🎙️ Believe in People: A Special Collaboration Episode 🌟 In this special transatlantic collaboration, Amy Goldberg , host of Believe in People America , welcomes Matt Butler , host of the UK’s Believe in People podcast, into the guest seat for a heartfelt discussion on recovery, resilience, and belief in change. Joining them as today’s special guest host is Caitlin Morrison , a dedicated advocate and sister of the late Matthew Perry , who shares powerful insights into the ongoing mission of the Matthew Perry Foundation honouring her brother’s legacy by sharing how his story continues to inspire and drive change. The episode explores the power of personal narratives in breaking stigma and promoting understanding. Matt reflects on his journey from administrative roles in substance misuse services to becoming a passionate advocate for recovery. Learn more about the hosts and their work: Believe in People America by Amy Goldberg : Push Back Productions | Instagram Caitlin Morrison and the Matthew Perry Foundation : Foundation Website | LinkedIn Believe in People: Spotify | YouTube Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#59 - Tom Fitzsimons: 3,073 Miles in a 100 Day Ultramarathon Across America, Alcoholism Redemption, National Day of Sobriety, Free Wi-Fi in McDonalds & A Cowboy Pastor on a White Horse 1:20:54

13 weeks ago1:20:54

1:20:54

Matt sits down with Tom Fitzsimons, an ultramarathon runner whose awe-inspiring story of resilience and recovery has touched lives worldwide. From battling stigma and enduring unimaginable physical challenges to running 3,073 miles across the United States in 100 days, Tom shares how running became more than a sport - it became his lifeline and a means to rewrite his identity. Tom takes us through his remarkable journey, beginning with his struggles with alcohol addiction and a life-changing realisation that running could be his path to freedom. Tom recounts harrowing yet heartfelt moments, including training for the Marathon des Sables by running in front of his fireplace and navigating the loneliest road in America with nothing but faith, grit, and a dodgy knee. His journey is punctuated by surreal encounters with strangers, like a Harley-Davidson rider who reminded him to focus on necessities and a cowboy pastor offering a prayer in the desert. Through his candid storytelling, Tom sheds light on the emotional toll of addiction, the power of community, and the importance of addressing trauma as a society. This episode is a powerful testament to the human spirit, highlighting how one man turned his pain into purpose. Whether he’s challenging the stigma surrounding addiction or advocating for a National Sobriety Day, Tom’s story is a call to action for empathy, understanding, and resilience. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#57 - Sarah Hicks (Part 1): Emotional Manipulation, Coercion, Self-Worth, Societal Stigma, Domestic Violence, Addiction, Trauma, Abuse, Codependency, Gaslighting, Generational Influences,… 57:57

17 weeks ago57:57

57:57

In this comprehensive two-part episode, Matt sits down with Sarah Hicks to explore her life story, touching on a wide range of themes that include addiction, trauma, abusive relationships, grief, and recovery. Sarah reflects on her early experiences with substance use, the impact of coercive control and emotional manipulation in her relationships, and the challenges of coping with profound loss and abandonment. The conversation delves into the generational and societal influences that shaped Sarah’s understanding of love, connection, and normalcy, as well as the role of codependency in perpetuating cycles of addiction and unhealthy relationships. Sarah candidly discusses her struggles with self-worth, the complexities of parenthood, and her eventual journey toward healing and personal transformation. Through a lens of resilience and self-discovery, Sarah offers insights into overcoming adversity, breaking free from harmful patterns, and rebuilding a sense of self in the wake of trauma. This episode provides a detailed and nuanced exploration of the interplay between addiction, mental health, family dynamics, and societal stigma. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#58 - Sarah Hicks (Part 2): Surviving Sexual Assault, Systemic Failures, Victim-Blaming Culture, Advocacy for Change, Violence Against Women and Girls & Societal Transformation 52:11

17 weeks ago52:11

52:11

In the second part of this two-part episode, Matt continues his conversation with Sarah Hicks as she reflects on her journey through trauma, recovery, and advocacy. Sarah shares the harrowing experience of surviving sexual assault, the long-term psychological impact, and her path to seeking justice. She candidly discusses the systemic challenges she faced during the investigation and legal proceedings, highlighting the critical need for change in how victims of sexual assault are treated. The episode also delves into Sarah’s commitment to advocacy, exploring her work with the Violence Against Women and Girls Independent Advisory Group and her role as a lived experience coordinator. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#56 - Zoe: Self Sabotage, Toxic Relationships, Normalising Substances, British Teenage Expectations, ADHD Challenges, Hospitality Industry Pressures, Addiction & The Journey to Recovery 34:49

17 weeks ago34:49

34:49

In this episode, Matt speaks with Zoe about her journey through substance misuse, mental health struggles, and recovery. Zoe candidly shares her experiences of growing up in an environment where substance use was normalized, starting with cannabis at the age of 12 and progressing to recreational use of other drugs like pills and alcohol. She reflects on how societal pressures, childhood challenges, and undiagnosed ADHD shaped her behaviours, leading to patterns of self-sabotage and an escape through toxic relationships. Zoe delves into her time as a chef in high-pressure kitchens, where substance use was part of the culture, and explains how this environment amplified her struggles. She also discusses the turning point in her life - a domestic violence incident that led to her arrest and a temporary separation from her child - prompting her to seek help through ReNew . Through thoughtful conversation, Zoe explores how early trauma and familial dynamics contributed to her substance use and relationship choices. She describes how therapy, counselling, and personal reflection have helped her break generational cycles of neglect and empowered her to focus on building a better future for herself and her son. This episode sheds light on the complexities of addiction, the normalisation of substances in modern society, and the importance of addressing underlying mental health and trauma. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#55 - Chris Tait: Electric Six, Alcoholism, Passenger Recovery, Detroit Music Scene, Sobriety Transformation & Metropolis Records: A Call To Action 1:24:08

20 weeks ago1:24:08

1:24:08

What happens when the highs of the music industry intersect with the lows of addiction? Join Matt as he speaks to Chris Tait , keyboard player for Electric Six and founder of Passenger Recovery , about his journey through addiction, recovery, and personal transformation. Chris provides an insightful perspective on the challenges of addiction, drawing from his personal experiences within the music industry. He reflects on his teenage struggles with alcohol as a coping mechanism and examines how the cultural landscape of the music scene both enabled and exacerbated these challenges. Chris shares key moments that led him to embrace recovery, offering an objective look at the complexities of substance use within creative industries. The discussion also explores Chris’s evolution, from overcoming personal struggles to founding Passenger Recovery, an inclusive center supporting individuals on their path to sobriety. His story highlights the potential for growth and positive impact when lived experience is directed toward fostering community support and purpose-driven action. 🎹 Metropolis Records: A Call to Action 🎹 Passenger Recovery is proud to collaborate with Metropolis Records on the Metropolis Records: A Call to Action campaign. This initiative brings together unique contributions from the Metropolis roster to raise funds supporting musicians in recovery from addiction and providing assistance to those seeking help. Honouring Dave Heckman’s Legacy This campaign is dedicated to the memory of Dave Heckman, the founder of Metropolis Records, whose passion for music shaped the industry. Dave faced his own battle with alcoholism, a struggle his family and colleagues now share to confront the stigma surrounding addiction. Addiction is a pervasive issue in the music industry, often hidden behind the glamour of the spotlight. The pressures of constant touring, performance demands, and creative stress can drive individuals toward substance use as a coping mechanism. Acknowledging these struggles is critical to breaking the cycle and offering meaningful support. About Passenger Recovery Passenger Recovery, founded in 2016, is a Detroit-based Recovery Community Organisation. Initially focused on connecting touring musicians and crew with support meetings while on the road, the organisation has grown to provide peer support, events, advocacy, and resources to the local recovery community. By using music and the arts as pathways to heali Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#54 - Shev: Teenage Motherhood, Pub Industry Drinking, Generational Patterns, Recovery Journey & Sober Festivals 55:05

21 weeks ago55:05

55:05

Matt jumps straight in at the deep end as Shev shares the profound impact of shouldering responsibilities far beyond her years, including becoming a mother at just 17. In this deeply personal conversation, Shev delves into the emotional challenges of abandonment, the strain and strength of familial bonds, and the role addiction played in shaping her path. Reflecting on her transition from occasional drinking to dependency within the pub industry, she candidly discusses the societal stereotypes she faced as a single mother and her determination to rewrite her story. Together, they uncover the power of community, family interventions, and the growing sober movement, showcasing how recovery offers not just an escape from addiction but the chance for a vibrant and fulfilling new chapter in life. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#53 - Tom: Drug Induced Paranoia, Psychosis, Cocaine Addiction, Disease of Alcoholism, Genetic Predispositions, Recovery Struggles, Suicide Battles & Only One Reason To Get Clean 1:04:23

22 weeks ago1:04:23

1:04:23

Join Matt for a powerful conversation with Tom, a former talent agent whose life was drastically impacted by cocaine addiction. Despite his high-earning lifestyle in central London, Tom shares his story of how addiction took control, culminating in the realisation that he was using drugs as he brought his new-born daughter home. Tom reflects on his own childhood and his experience highlights addiction's damaging cycle, where moments of relief are overshadowed by drug induced psychosis, paranoia, and self-blame, driving further use. As he details his recovery journey, Tom openly discusses his struggles with sobriety, periods of despair, and eventual intervention that led him to rehab and support. His story illustrates the importance of support systems and the determination to rebuild, particularly in reconnecting with his daughter, underscoring the role of empathy and persistence in the path toward recovery. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#52 - Ollie: Cannabis Addiction, Emotional Isolation, Manchester Roots & The Power of Recovery 1:11:59

22 weeks ago1:11:59

1:11:59

Matt is joined by Ollie, who shares his journey from early childhood trauma to recovery, revealing how the loss of his mother at age eight and his father’s 22-year prison sentence at 15 shaped his formative years and led him toward a dependency on cannabis. Reflecting on his tumultuous upbringing, he recalls becoming heavily dependent on cannabis, priding himself as a “weed connoisseur” who explored different strains and rationalised his constant use. In conversation, he acknowledges the toll cannabis took on his mental health, contributing to psychotic episodes and leading him into emotional isolation. Smoking from morning to night, Ollie’s life became consumed by addiction, and now in recovery, he emphasises how, despite cannabis's societal acceptance, its damaging effects can rival those of harder substances. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma. For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️ www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help. You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️ Facebook | Twitter | Instagram We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise . Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.…

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#51 - Andre Edmund: Murder, 31 Years in a Los Angeles Prison, Addiction, Redemption, Gang Violence, Racism, Corruption & Redefining Freedom 1:11:15

24 weeks ago1:11:15