This Is Powerful With Paul Sculfor
Anyone can be affected by addiction…it does not discriminate. “This is Powerful” is a brand new podcast hosted by distinguished British model and mindset coach, Paul Sculfor. In this series, Paul comes clean about his own sobriety and the journey it took him to get here. Over the first eight episodes, Paul sits down with a variety of professionals in the field of addiction as well as special guests who candidly talk about substance abuse, how they achieved sobriety and how they maintain healthy mindsets today. Subscribe now so that you don’t miss an episode…and search for This Is Po...
S2 E11 · Thu, April 17, 2025
From Shame to Liberation with Sonia Gibney
Sonia Gibney shares her journey of growing up in East London with a non-English-speaking mother, an absent father, and struggling through school with severe dyslexia. Now 21 years into recovery, Sonia is a yoga instructor and coach with a thriving practice, whose calm presence contrasts sharply with her past. She’s dedicated to helping women and speaks powerfully about the freedom found in self-reliance, believing that when you go within, you will never have to go without. For Sonia, that means no longer feeling the need to be saved...she’s become her own knight in shining armor. Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8 If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Follow us on social media for more tips, resources, and community discussions. Share your thoughts and connect with Paul on Instagram as he’d love to hear from you! Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Sonia on Instagram @soniagibney.lifecoach
S2 E10 · Thu, April 10, 2025
The Dangerous Highs of the Limelight with Psychotherapist and Addiction Specialist Taner Hassan
He had a taste of life in the fast lane but found himself desperate to escape his life-threatening habits when paranoia and self loathing took him to some dangerous places. Now clean for 18 years, Psychotherapist and Addiction Specialist Taner Hassan explains how self-obsessive thinking led to his massive social anxiety and how using alcohol to silence that constant internal dialogue led to his early struggles with addiction. Paul and Taner talk about his drug of choice (MORE) and Paul’s drug of choice (PRESTIGE). Taner has extensive experience, having worked within the field of addiction for over 16 years, serving the community in various settings for mental health including charities, the NHS and private rehabilitation. Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8 If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Follow us on social media for more tips, resources, and community discussions. Share your thoughts and connect with Paul on Instagram as he’d love to hear from you! Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Taner on social media @tanertherapy Find details about the retreat mentioned in the episode @thetherapeuticretreat Find out more about Rehubs @rehubsofficial Find Taner online https://www.taner-hassan.com
S2 E9 · Thu, April 03, 2025
Hurt To Healing: Paul Sculfor on Addiction, Recovery and Reinventing Himself
This week, we’ve got something really special for you. Instead of our usual episode, we’re bringing you an episode from Hurt to Healing , a brilliant podcast hosted by Pandora Morris. You might remember Pandora from Season 1 of This Is Powerful , when we shared her incredible story of learning to manage her OCD and recovering from an eating disorder that manifested for her through extreme restrictive eating and chronic over-exercising. Pandora has travelled the world, working with OCD experts and has made it her mission to support others on their path to mental health recovery. This time, the tables were turned—I was a guest on Hurt to Healing , and we had such a meaningful conversation that I wanted to share it with you here. We talked about my formative years, navigating societal pressures, life's adversities and the spiral of substance abuse. But we also explored the turning points—what ultimately led me toward recovery, purpose, and a new way of seeing the world. It’s an open, honest conversation, and I’m really grateful to Pandora for creating such a thoughtful space. I hope you find something in it that resonates. Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8 If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Follow us on social media for more tips, resources, and community discussions. Share your thoughts and connect with Paul on Instagram as he’d love to hear from you! Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Pandora @hurttohealingpod and subscribe to Hurt to Healing for more wonderful episodes!
S2 E8 · Thu, March 27, 2025
How Your Brain Can Be Hijacked by Addiction With Dr Rayyan Zafar
Today we have an incredible guest. Dr. Rayann Zafar is a neuropsychopharmacologist with a core focus on addiction. After a battle with anorexia nervosa as an adolescent, Dr Zafar was compelled to learn more about how the brain works and as a result dedicated his life and career to finding science-backed solutions that help others to tackle addiction and make sense of their own mental health. Rayyan talks about the reward pathways being hijacked by addiction, whether there is a genetic predisposition to addiction and the spiritual elements of addiction. Dr. Zafar is in the midst of some very exciting trials involving psilocybin, and how effective that can be in treating alcoholism, addiction, and depression. Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8 If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Follow us on social media for more tips, resources, and community discussions. Share your thoughts and connect with Paul on Instagram as he’d love to hear from you! Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Rayyan on Instagram @rayyanzaf Find out more about gambling trials with the NHS https://www.imperial.ac.uk/news/250473/psychedelic-therapy-help-break-chains-gambling/ Find out more about psychedelics research https://www.imperial.ac.uk/psychedelic-research-centre/
S2 E7 · Thu, March 20, 2025
The Real Life Fairytale Starts Now With Jim
Our guest on today’s episode is one of the what we would call strongholds of the twelve-step community. Jim (or Jimmie, as Paul affectionately refers to him) gets straight into the nitty gritty: why trusting his head over his gut did not serve him well, why sweeties as a very young child then smoking at seven was just the start of his dangerous and progressive addiction, the strict incarceration he endured from age 16, getting sober in prison and the Peter Pan syndrome. Jim grew up in a poor, rural Scottish community and being the youngest of seven siblings and to whom he was always compared, he battled with suicidal thoughts at a prepubescent age. Now with over 45 years of continued sobriety, Jim talks about the gift of time and why surrender is not losing but how letting go is the key to success. He tells us how recovery is available to everyone for free…once you are ready to see, hear and experience it. We hope this conversation shows you how to boldly go where you may have never gone before and why accepting love into your life over fear can be so much more exciting than living in the fantastical world of the make believe. Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8 If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Follow us on social media for more tips, resources, and community discussions. Share your thoughts and connect with Paul on Instagram as he’d love to hear from you! Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor
S2 E6 · Thu, March 13, 2025
Why Addictions Are Often A Misguided Search for Spirituality With Alistair Richardson
Alistair Richardson is a powerhouse in the world of therapy, energy psychology, and healing, helping people break free from trauma, addiction, and codependency. With 23 years of long-term recovery from addiction and codependency himself, Alistair not only brings deep professional expertise to the table, but also invaluable personal insight and compassion. Alistair shares about the surprisingly various spectrums of love addictions, he introduces us to the mind-blowing concept of healing the matrix, and we dive into the pure and central self and how you can heal yourself at any age and at any stage of your life. Dedicated to deep healing and personal growth, Alistair’s mission is to help others break free from trauma, addiction, and codependency and to reclaim their lives with confidence and clarity. We hope this conversation opens your mind and leaves you feeling full of love, light and joy like it did for us. Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8 If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Alistair on Instagram @lifeforcetraumahealing Find Alistair on Facebook lifeforcetraumahealingltd Find Alistair online https://lifeforcetraumahealing.com/
S2 E5 · Thu, March 06, 2025
The Gift of Addiction with David Smallwood
In this episode of This Is Powerful , Paul welcomes renowned therapist and author David Smallwood to explore addiction, recovery, and the deep roots of trauma. With 37 years of sobriety, David shares his personal journey—from growing up in a challenging home environment to struggling with anxiety, alcohol, and benzodiazepine dependence. He discusses how early childhood trauma shapes addiction and why addressing core emotional wounds is crucial for long-term recovery. David and Paul dive into the concept of cross-addiction (why so many in recovery swap alcohol for tobacco, sweets, exercise, etc), the impact of fear on mental health, and the importance of connection in the healing process. He describes the impact of sensitivity in response to trauma and how his transformative experience in relapse prevention training reshaped his approach to treatment. Along the way, Paul and David swap personal stories of recovery, touching on moments of joy, fear, and the surprising gifts that come with addiction, if approached with the right mindset. Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8 If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find David online davidsmallwoodtherapy.co.uk Find David’s book on Amazon https://amzn.eu/d/64QLZkQ
S2 E4 · Thu, February 27, 2025
Millie Mackintosh On Fame, Family and Her Book, Bad Drunk
For this episode we welcome Millie Mackintosh - Made in Chelsea alum, style icon, entrepreneur and mother of two. Millie has spent the past three years redefining her relationship with alcohol and shares how her struggles with self-worth, bullying, and binge drinking began in her teenage years and followed her into adulthood. We get some honest banter about the realities of fame, the pressure and problems with seeking perfection and the wake-up call that left her reaching out for sobriety. In Millie’s new book, Bad Drunk , she lays bare the highs and lows of her drinking years and offers insight into what helped her break free from the cycle. The driving force behind writing the book is for Millie to help others feel less alone and to provide practical advice for anyone curious about a life with less alcohol. Connecting over the power of vulnerability and the importance of having sober friends, Paul and Mille also cover the surprising role that an intimacy coach can provide and the simple joys in life that begin with waking up each morning without regret. Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8 If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Millie on Instagram @milliemackintosh Bad Drunk by Millie Mackintosh is out now in Hardback, eBook and Audio, https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/millie-mackintosh/bad-drunk/9780349443812/
S1 E28 · Thu, February 20, 2025
Finding Strength in Storytelling with Laura Hearn
This week, Paul sits down with Laura Hearn—renowned BBC journalist, host of the Flip It podcast, and fierce advocate for mental health. Laura shares her journey through childhood isolation, an eating disorder that took hold in her late teens, and the life-changing experience of seeking treatment in the U.S. She reflects on the challenges of returning to work after recovery, the moment she chose to leave the BBC, and how storytelling became her most powerful tool for healing. Paul illustrates how the most impactful help can come from those who have shared experiences to us by sharing the colourful Addict in a Hole anecdote. With a mix of vulnerability and humor, Laura and Paul discuss trauma, grief, and the small moments of human kindness that can change everything. Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8 If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Laura on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/laura_lhearn/ Laura’s Flip It podcast: https://podfollow.com/1727182763 Flip It website: https://www.flipitglobal.com/
Thu, February 13, 2025
Kevin Bishop: Celebrated British Actor, Writer and Award-Winning Comedian
Kevin Bishop is a British actor, writer and award-winning comedian known for his roles in Grange Hill , Muppet Treasure Island , The Kevin Bishop Show , and Porridge . With a career spanning three decades, he has always stood out with his sharp wit and fearless performances. This episode has its fair share of laugh aloud moments as Kevin shares his journey with sincerity and wry self-reflection. After enjoying a few years living life in the fast lane like his hard-drinking idols, Kevin was shocked to find he needed help and after giving up alcohol, a relapse was the gift that ultimately tested his commitment to sobriety. Kevin also opens up about the role alcohol played in his marriage—and how getting sober changed the relationship dynamic in ways he never expected. With plenty of honesty and humor, Kevin recounts anecdotes that reveal what he's learned along the way and illuminate what sober life feels like now. And why there is still plenty to laugh about. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Kevin on Instagram @iamkevbish
Thu, February 06, 2025
Calum Best on Healing Children of Addiction and Breaking Generational Cycles
Welcome back to the podcast! Kicking off the second season is this deeply personal episode featuring entrepreneur, model, and NACOA (National Association for Children of Alcoholics) patron Calum Best. Known to many as the son of football legend George Best, Calum opens up about his own struggles, healing and daily choice of purpose over destruction. Calum recounts the moments that shaped him, from his wild years in Hollywood to the loss of his father and the spiral that followed. But this isn’t just a story of hardship—it’s one of resilience, self-discovery, and a relentless drive to help others. Through his work with NACOA (National Association for Children of Alcoholics), Calum is using his experiences and voice to support the millions of children impacted by parental addiction, ensuring they are seen, heard, and given the help they deserve. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Calum on Instagram @mrcalumbest Find Calum on X @calumbest
Bonus · Thu, January 09, 2025
S1: End of Season One Special Announcement
We have come to the end of season one, after 25 powerful episodes. Here's a special announcement from Paul to you. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor
S1 E25 · Thu, January 02, 2025
Jack Curran
It is the first episode of the New Year and we are featuring our youngest guest so far. Jack Curran speaks to us candidly about his ketamine addiction and by way of his account of the catastrophic mental and physical damage it caused him personally, gives a rather ominous warning to anyone even considering the drug. Jack has been featured on The Guardian and on other media outlets, speaking out about genZ’s recreational drug of choice in the UK that at times made him feel like he ‘was peeing glass’. Jack is a recovery worker at Step By Step Recovery and is training to become a fully licensed counsellor. Having repaired a critically damaged relationship with his father and turned around much of the physical deterioration, Jack is an image of gratitude and inspiration. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Jack on Instagram @j.curran95 Find Jack on Facebook Jack Curran Find Jack on Tik Tok @ addicted.333
S1 E24 · Mon, December 23, 2024
Paul’s Festive Toolkit
As we are approaching the season of parties, cheer, family, friends, temptation and a whole minefield of disturbances to our serenity, we are sharing some of the ways in which Paul has handled the festive season over the years. We cover the gifts of Christmas present, the pain of Christmas past, the tips for Christmases future and unrealistic New Year’s resolutions. Just a taste of what’s to come- you aren’t wearing concrete shoes, phone a friend and why leaving a turkey in the oven and driving to Vegas is just not a good idea. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor
S1 E23 · Thu, December 19, 2024
Victoria Vanstone
This week, we’re joined by Victoria Vanstone, self-confessed ‘drunk mother gone sober’. Victoria is the host of award-winning podcast Sober Awkward and author of the heartfelt and hilarious memoir, A Thousand Wasted Sundays . Known for her raw honesty and relatable humor, she offers a fresh take on sobriety which appeals to drinkers of all classifications! We caught up with Victoria in Thailand, where she’s traveling with her children, to cover loads of big topics, from accepting that routine binge-drinking is actually a problem, to mourning the loss of her party-girl identity and embracing the joy of sober parenting. As we are well within the festive period, Victoria shares practical tips on avoiding alcohol when it is most tempting and the surprising gifts that sobriety can provide. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Victoria on Instagram @soberawkward Sober Awkward podcast website www.soberawkward.com Amazon audible link to Victoria’s comedy memoir, A Thousand Wasted Sundays https://a.co/d/gMz8m7N Victoria’s free online community: www.cuppa.community
S1 E22 · Thu, December 12, 2024
Mark White
Our guest this week is Mark White, who at over 22 years sober, has established himself as a community builder and true visionary. Mark has successfully launched workshops that are designed for ‘the next regeneration of mindful movers’ around the world and was recently voted as one of the UK’s top social entrepreneurs because of his work in the wellness space. One of the most driven people out there, Mark comes clean about personal shame, suffocating the darkness and that can of worms that no one should open. Mark is a proud father of two daughters, a keen runner, and is passionate about combining physical activity with gratitude. By combining techniques he has learned in recovery and setting personalised physical fitness goals, the results for many have been life-changing. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Listen to all of our episodes on your favourite podcast platform: https://podfollow.com/1756874279 Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Mark on Instagram @markwhite_0602 Find Grateful Mile on Instagram @gratefulmileofficial Find Daily Five on Instagram @dailyfiveofficial
S1 E21 · Thu, December 05, 2024
George
In this episode, we follow George’s journey through the depths of addiction and his incredible transformation. For years, George was trapped in a destructive cycle of alcohol and drug abuse, leading to repeated hospitalisations for physical emergencies and psychiatric ward admissions for mental health emergencies. His addiction was fuelled by a desperate need to escape overwhelming emotions like worry, panic, fear, anger, and paralysing frustration. Finally George entered rehab and committed to a 12-step program and it seemed his life was on the upswing. All of his hard work was put to the test when his criminal past caught up with him, landing him in prison. Instead of giving in to despair, George requested to be placed in a rehabilitation wing, where he found purpose in helping others with their addictions and recovery. Today, George is a recovered addict and alcoholic, three and a half years sober. His journey is a powerful reminder that by being of service to others, George has found immense purpose and strength. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor
S1 E20 · Thu, November 28, 2024
Vinny
This is one of those remarkable interviews that will surprise you, pull on your heart strings and reveal the depth of the human spirit. Growing up in a conservative, deeply religious London family, our guest Vinny reveals how he strayed into a life of crime, addiction, and self-destruction. His rock bottom moment came after months of heavy substance abuse, a heart attack, and a near-tragic incident involving his wife and children. From functioning as a plumber constantly under the influence, to spiraling emotionally, Vinny’s mantra, “I’ve got this,” was a lie that masked his slow self-destruction. Today, Vinny inspires hope in recovery circles, offering tough love combined with vulnerability and honesty. Grateful for every breath, Vinny’s story is one of resilience and absolute transformation. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor
S1 E19 · Thu, November 21, 2024
David McLaughlan
Today we welcome Dr David McLaughlan to the show. David always had his sights set on a medical career, but did a bit of modelling in his earlier days. Working with a variety of people reinforced his values of being a kind and compassionate person, (so-called ‘soft skills’) and helps him engage with patients today. Now one of the UK's leading addiction psychiatrists, David has contributed to international treatment guidelines, academic journals as well as mainstream media outlets. Additionally, David serves as Academic Secretary of The Royal College of Psychiatrists' Addiction Faculty. Aside from being incredibly articulate, engaging and well-educated, David is a genuine guy, the real deal and has people very close to him who have had issues with alcohol. After recognising that emerging technology might enable greater self management of harmful habits and addictive behaviours, David has launched an app called Curb. Curb’s personalised approach is a tool which helps to examine our relationships with alcohol and has been proven to help people quit or reduce their drinking. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Curb on Instagram @curb.app Download the Curb app for free http://www.curb.health/
S1 E18 · Thu, November 14, 2024
Pandora Morris
This week we hosted the incredible host of the Hurt to Healing podcast, Pandora Morris. A former lawyer turned mental health activist, Pandora’s journey began in childhood, facing OCD and an eating disorder that manifested through restrictive eating and chronic over-exercising. Much like obsessive behaviour often linked to addiction, Pandora would regularly run at least twenty miles a day, take midnight bike rides and start her days with a swim in the sea - an activity which once saw her hospitalised with hypothermia. As part of her own healing, Pandora’s travelled the world working with OCD experts and has made it her mission to support others on their path to mental health recovery. Pandora’s honesty in how she sees the world and her reality within that world is both raw and refreshing. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Pandora on Instagram @hurttohealingpod Pandora’s podcast https://podfollow.com/1649515453 Pandora’s website https://www.hurttohealing.co.uk/
S1 E17 · Thu, November 07, 2024
Andy Ramage
This week, we welcome former professional footballer turned successful entrepreneur Andy Ramage. After a career-ending injury, Andy pivoted to create two financial brokerages and soon discovered that his life changed dramatically when he decided to go alcohol-free. This decision not only transformed his health and mindset but also became his unique selling point, helping him stand out in a competitive business market. The coaching initiatives that Andy has created have collectively helped hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of people to revitalise their lives. Andy provides refreshing authenticity and humour while providing plenty of advice that you can put to use right away. Spoiler alert - you will never look at a marshmallow the same way again. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Andy on Instagram @andyramageofficial Andy’s website www.andyramage.com Andy’s coach training website - www.aretewaycoach.com
S1 E16 · Thu, October 31, 2024
Ollie Ollerton
This week we are super excited to welcome Ollie Ollerton onto the show. You might know Ollie from the British television programme SAS: Who Dares Wins? Ollie is not only a former Marine, SAS soldier, and Special Forces Combat Frogman, he's also an author of five books and the CEO of Breakpoint and Battle Ready Academy, two powerful physical and mental training academies. Ollie’s personal breakthrough arrived once he worked up the courage to put booze and drugs behind him. Finding himself at a crossroads, Ollie created his own bootcamp in which he was both the drill sergeant and the recruit. He coached himself out of his darkest depths and created an empire of self improvement programmes that have turned around the lives of many and continue to inspire even more. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Ollie’s coaching courses can be found here: https://learn.ollieollerton.com/battle-ready-intensive Ollie’s websites www.ollieollerton.co.uk & www.break-point.co.uk
S1 E15 · Thu, October 24, 2024
Elliott Wald
In this episode, Paul sits down with addiction expert Elliott Wald. Elliott is a trainer of NLP and is recognized as one of the world’s leading hypnosis experts. Speaking about the gradual and often unnoticed slide into cocaine addiction, Paul shares his personal experience of how his casual use turned into a debilitating habit, mirroring the stories of many who struggle with addiction. With over 29 years of professional experience and having helped over a hundred thousand people to overcome addictions such as alcohol, drugs, and addiction, Elliott emphasises that no matter how desperate the situation may seem, recovery is always possible. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Elliott on his website www.hypnosis-expert.com Find Elliott on Instagram & Tik Tok @hypnosis_expert Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor
S1 E14 · Thu, October 17, 2024
Carol
This week, we have the privilege of hearing Carol’s incredible journey, which began with unspeakable abuse and neglect she faced from a very young age. In an attempt to escape trauma and hardship, Carol turned to drugs and alcohol but eventually found sobriety at the age of 51. In her conversation with Paul, Carol opens up about everything from drinking in parks and getting into fights to the deep regret she feels over missing large parts of her children’s younger years due to addiction. It’s a wonder Carol is here to tell the tale at all but she is here and by helping so many women in the sober space, she is thriving. In sharing her own experiences and even offering laughter, Carol radiates light and hope after beginning life in a fairly dark place. Warning: This episode contains discussions of heavy topics such as sexual abuse and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor
Thu, October 10, 2024
Penny Mallory
Today is World Mental Health Day, and we are incredibly fortunate to welcome Penny Mallory to the show. Penny is a Mental Toughness expert, former Rally Champion, motivational and TedX speaker, and currently training to row across the Atlantic Ocean. She’s no stranger to pushing boundaries—she even stepped into the boxing ring for the first time at the age of 42. While you may be captivated by her incredible journey, Penny will convince you that she’s not special—just an ordinary person who has done extraordinary things. You’ll walk away from this episode understanding how by developing your mental toughness, you will find the enthusiasm and confidence to accomplish whatever goal you set your mind to. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Penny on Instagram @Mallory.Penny Penny’s website https://www.pennymallory.co.uk Penny on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennymallory/
S1 E12 · Thu, October 03, 2024
Henry Lunn
A little something for our younger listeners this week! Today’s guest Henry Lunn found sobriety when he was just 25 years old. This may seem early, but just wait until you hear all he accomplished by the time he was twenty. After experiencing challenges in school and with his home life, Henry started his professional career as a teenager and started earning a lot of money very quickly and at a very young age. With some heartracing anecdotes to illustrate his downward spiral, Henry describes his remarkable transformation, going from drug and alcohol addiction to successfully navigating his career and personal life. His recovery culminates in pushing himself physically by running ultra-marathons and finding peace in giving back to the community today. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Henry on Instagram @myjourneyto100miles
S1 E11 · Thu, September 26, 2024
Michael Cannan
We would like to advise you that there are suicide references right from the start of this episode that some might find troubling. Please take care when listening. This week, Paul welcomes his close personal friend Michael Cannan. Michael is the author of Hunting Concrete Lines, which was the finalist for the Best Book Award for The Independent. Formerly a celebrity fitness trainer in Hollywood, Michael is the founder of a behavioural health company in California. There are a lot of shared laughs between great friends but also intense moments of confession and vulnerability. Although now a shining example of health and vitality (check out the episode on YouTube!) Michael recalls vividly how he was once on the verge of cardiac arrest, he shares how he created a completely fabricated life, getting himself stuck into a mountain of lies and describes the profound moment of clarity that marked the beginning of his true recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Michael on Instagram @ michaelcannan Find Hunting Concrete Lions on Instagram @huntingconcretelions Buy Hunting Concrete Lions on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/gunpCVG
S1 E10 · Thu, September 19, 2024
David Nutt
This week special guest Professor David John Nutt helps us to examine the impact alcohol has on our brains, behaviour and longer term health. We have an eye-opening conversation about how monitored doses of LSD may cure alcoholism, how many subsidised private bars are actually part of the UK Houses of Parliament and the alternative ‘functional beverages’ which might just replace alcohol altogether. Professor Nutt is an English neuropsychopharmacologist who’s controversial removal from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs was a direct result of a study he published, which showed how alcohol is more harmful than heroin. Specialising in the research of drugs and alcohol and their relation to addiction, anxiety, and sleep, Professor Nutt is also the chairman of Drug Science, a non-profit which he founded in 2010 to provide independent, evidence-based information on drugs. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find more about Drug Science on the website https://www.drugscience.org.uk/ And on the Drug Science Podcast https://www.drugscience.org.uk/podcast Links to David’s books Drink - https://www.waterstones.com/book/drink/professor-david-nutt/9781529393231 Cannabis - https://www.waterstones.com/book/cannabis-seeing-through-the-smoke/professor-david-nutt/9781529360493 Psychedelics - https://www.waterstones.com/book/psychedelics/professor-david-nutt/9781529360530
S1 E9 · Thu, September 12, 2024
Johnny Graaff
This week, we welcome Johnny Graaff, co-founder of Lions Campus, which is a teen rehabilitation centre in London. Johnny approaches recovery in a unique way, creating a community around each individual, using psychiatrists, doctors, mentors, and coaches. He’s had some incredible success helping young people overcome addiction, eating disorders and bullying. A firm believer in surrounding patients with inspirational role models, Johnny has six years of sobriety behind him and endless gratitude for the twelve-step programme that continues to aid in his success. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Johnny on Instagram @lionscampus Learn more about Lions Campus: https://www.lions-campus.co.uk
S1 E8 · Thu, September 05, 2024
Andrea Taylor
This week, Paul engages in a deeply personal conversation with therapist Andrea Taylor. A former manager and director of the Priory Group Hospitals, Andrea has over 25 years of experience and is currently running a successful private practice specialising in trauma, addiction, and couples therapy. Andrea's own journey has taken her far and wide, but wherever she travelled, drug and alcohol dependency followed. From a tumultuous childhood in Hong Kong to desperately trying to control her addiction whilst living in Sydney with her brother, Andrea eventually faced homelessness and multiple stints in rehabilitation centres in California before finally committing to her sobriety in the UK. Andrea now leads a happy, healthy life after years of study and subsequent success, helping others face their own significant life challenges. Andrea’s resilience and strength is inspiring. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Email Andrea on ATayloredTherapy@outlook.com Andrea’s profile on BAcp https://www.bacp.co.uk/profile/6818f652-5090-e711-80e8-3863bb351d40 Andrea is Clinical Outreach for Camino Recovery: https://www.caminorecovery.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=GMB
S1 E7 · Thu, August 29, 2024
Yasmin
Join Paul as he discusses the tough road to recovery with his friend Yasmin. From a childhood in Northeast London to a reckless young adult life in and around Southern California, Yasmin has a long history of trauma, addiction and dangerous behaviour. She has not only overcome bulimia and alcoholism but has also addressed her reliance on prescription medications. Yasmin eloquently reveals the terror she felt when facing giving up drinking alcohol, which she thought was the only way to bring colour to her otherwise black and white existence. Amongst other heartfelt confessions, Yasmin shares details of her shame following blackouts, and how she has learned to stop identifying as a victim and become the strong and sober woman she is today. This is a conversation not to be missed. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor
Thu, August 22, 2024
Anita Chellamah
This episode is a real eye-opener, packed full of valuable insight into a bit of the psychology around addiction. Joining Paul today is addiction and trauma therapist Anita Chellamah. With a contagious laugh and a general ease around her, it is clear why Anita is the trusted therapist she is, having helped thousands to understand themselves and their behaviours better. After a successful stage, TV and film career and with a slew of hit singles under her belt, there’s not much out there that Anita hasn’t seen. Join Paul as they speak openly about harsh comedowns, childhood traumas and how Anita has achieved 36 years of sobriety herself. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Reach out to Anita on email achellamahnurse@hotmail.co.uk Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor
S1 E5 · Thu, August 15, 2024
Michelle Heaton
You might know her from the award-winning band Liberty X, part of the BAFTA and Emmy Award-winning cast of The Real Full Monty, as a TV presenter or as a menopause advocate and author but what you might not know about Michelle Heaton is that she is recovering from a difficult battle with alcohol and drugs. Addressing behaviour that quickly escalated from social partying to regularly drinking vodka in the mornings, Michelle committed to a 12-step recovery programme. In this mutually intimate conversation with Paul, Michelle bravely shares her incredible journey, with deeply heartfelt moments and lots of personal anecdotes including one massive public apology. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Michelle on Instagram @ wonderwomanshel
S1 E4 · Thu, August 08, 2024
Michael Emmett
Genuine charmer, spinner of yarns and ex-gangster Michael Emmett talks about his autobiography Sins of Fathers, the ‘hole in the soul’ and his spiritual awakening whilst sharing a prison cell with his father. Ex-criminal Michael also shares shocking anecdotes about drug trafficking, car chases, death and love addiction. The stories are intense but Michael’s gentle soul is an inspiration. This episode contains references to sexual abuse so please take care when listening. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Michael's book, Sins of Fathers: A Spectacular Break from a Dark Criminal Past here: https://amzn.eu/d/9ROQ5ml Find Michael on Instagram @michaelemmettofficial
S1 E3 · Thu, August 08, 2024
Jo Langley
In this episode, we are excited to host Paul’s close personal friend Jo Langley on the podcast. Paul talks to Jo about idolising an alcoholic, maintaining sobriety and the first time she tried ecstasy. Now a mother of two teenage children and an ambassador for the Stride Foundation, Jo spends a lot of time speaking to young people about the realities and dangers of drug and alcohol use. Jo entered her recovery journey with the intention to be able to ‘drink like a lady’ only to realise that she never did manage to ‘drink like a lady’ in the past and her road to recovery would have to be free of alcohol entirely. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Jo on Instagram @recipe_rituals
S1 E2 · Thu, August 01, 2024
DJ Fat Tony
The podcast’s first guest interview is world-renowned DJ and award-winning author Fat Tony who has been sober for 17.5 years...but the road to sobriety wasn't easy. Growing up, alcoholism had a huge impact on Tony's family life and it continued to affect him throughout his adult life. Having always been surrounded by drinking and drugs, Tony's reliance on them was exacerbated during his career as a DJ. Fat Tony opens up to Paul about the key moments that shaped his life and informed his choices. He shares deeply personal details around sexual abuse as a child and the toxic relationships that consumed much of his life. Thanks to therapy and as a result of continuing to follow a recovery programme, Tony is now the happiest and healthiest he’s ever been. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor Find Fat Tony on Instagram @dj_fattony_
S1 E1 · Thu, August 01, 2024
An introduction to Paul's story
Season 1 of This Is Powerful kicks off with an intimate solo episode in which Paul shares an overview of his own story. Expect behind-the-scenes anecdotes from his life, which reveal details Paul has kept private up until now. Coming clean to his producer about his struggles with addiction and the less glamorous aspects of his career as a top model in the 90s, Paul opens up about fame, addiction and life after drugs. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/ Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor Find This Is Powerful on Instagram @this_ispowerful Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor
Trailer · Wed, July 10, 2024
S1: This Is Powerful With Paul Sculfor Trailer Season One
Anyone can be affected by addiction…it does not discriminate. “This is Powerful” is a brand new podcast hosted by distinguished British model and mindset coach, Paul Sculfor. In this series, Paul comes clean about his own sobriety and the journey it took him to get here. Over the first eight episodes, Paul sits down with a variety of professionals in the field of addiction as well as special guests who candidly talk about their stories, how they achieved sobriety and how they maintain healthy mindsets today. CHECK BACK HERE ON THURSDAY 1 AUGUST, 2024 FOR THE FIRST TWO EPISODES! Subscribe now so that you don’t miss an episode…and search for This Is Powerful with Paul Sculfor on YouTube to see all of the episodes in video form. This podcast is brought to you by the Stride Foundation.
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