Dare To Talk

Sam & Jack caught up shortly after Jack's return from Scotland, after another mountain climbing trip. Jack reflected on the week, plus how he now does these trips as a tool to aid his mental health rather than the negative. Sam discusses the impact of spreading positive recovery stories as he builds towards the two year mark of his sobriety.

Sam & Jack are joined by Ross Burgess aka @ross_tyler_burgess who's life story begins with a typical working class upbringing, but with a culture of drinking around him from a young age. Ross began drinking at 14, eventually leading him to drugs. Then as his own boss later in life, the lack of accountability for his actions lead to a more than turbulent lifestyle.

Fast Forward and Ross is in a much better state with his life and uses his social media to help and support people who have been through difficult times.

Sam & Jack are joined by Micheal Hilton aka @themichealhilton who talks honestly about his recovery. Micheal described himself as an alcoholic, which started at a young age, he tried the fellowship but his real wake up come 4 and a half years into recovery.

Personal ownership and becoming one with your own intuition is what Micheal attests to his lifestyle now. He has changed his life for the better and now helps others who go through the same difficulties.

Sam & Jack are joined by Holly Brookes, who talks about her upcoming challenge in which she is walking 60 miles (100km) along the Suffolk Coast on Father's Day for Dementia UK in memory of her Dad, Pete, who sadly passed away last year.

Holly's dad had Alzheimer's for around 5 years and understands how difficult it is not just for the person, but their families too. That's why she has chosen Dementia UK as her charity, as they have a team of specialised Admiral nurses who support people affected by Dementia and their families.

Holly's target is a very specific £1934 because of her dad's birth year, 1934. This would be an amazing amount to raise and anything over would of course be even better!

Link below to donate

https://www.justgiving.com/page/suffolkcoastchallenge?utm_source=copyLink&utm_medium=one_page&utm_content=page/suffolkcoastchallenge&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_term=3c836498b40743ccb1514364947b0e0a

Sam & Jack are joined by Rob Dunger, broadcaster, producer, presenter with Suffolk Sound. Who was kind enough to invite us to his lovely Studio 4 in an unknown location, but this time to tell us his own story. Rob opens by telling us about his early life growing up in Birmingham, establishing himself a career with WH Smith, before a new relationship led to a life changing decision to move to Holland and begin a business as a Florist. Many years later his partner vanished, leaving Rob in significant difficulties, but he coped and eventually found a passion and new career in Radio.

Rob is honest about his struggles whilst working with the BBC, and talks about how he managed, and got himself to where he is now in life. Rob provides some advice to those going through similar difficulties, and shares his views on mental health and how support can be found.

Sam & Jack are joined by Jodi aka @soberflourish who speaks openly about her 100 day challenge to quit booze and change her lifestyle, which turned into a passion to help people become alcohol free, and helping to spread the word of how it contributes to overall wellbeing. Jodi explains the impact it had on improving her mental health, from being anxiety riddled and distanced from her goals and true potential at the start of the COVID pandemic, to now helping to inspire others.

Sam & Jack spoke with Tommy Fisher, who opens up about his addiction. What began with a difficult school life getting bullied, led to a desire to prove himself coupled with the influence of a negative role model.

Tommy became a father at a young age but this did not stop his addiction to cocaine, and neither did the birth of his second son. Tommy eventually decided to turn his life around, and although he did not find the fellowship, he did find training and fitness as his new addiction. Tommy also opens up about an incident in his previous job, in which he saved the life of a young teenager attempting to take their own life. Although still a young man himself, Tommy has come a long way, and he offers advice to those experiencing the same difficulties that he did.

Sam & Jack sat with Kaye who opened up abut her story of addiction which began at the age of 12. Kaye is very honest about her upbringing, and the feelings she had of always wanting attention. This unfortunately led to a lifestyle of substance misuse, losing friendships along the way. Following stints in rehab and hospital, Kaye found the fellowship and changed her life. Kaye offers advice for those experiencing the same feelings, and suffering from addiction.

Sam & Jack sat down with Harry Kerins who opened up about his battles with anxiety. This began at a young age, as a schoolboy, and the pressures of schoolyard perceptions. Harry is very honest about his daily suicidal thoughts and how it all came to a head during a toxic relationship. Harry provides some good advice on what helped him get to a positive place in his life now, and Sam sets some challenges to help improve his morning routine.

Sam & Jack Zoomed with @DadInRecovery aka Nick Conn, who speaks openly about his whirlwind life that begins as an aspiring police officer. Nick details how cocaine took hold of his life, and led to him leaving the police, to become a snowboard instructor, to Berlin and being involved in illegal activity with Albanian gangs. Following a series of events Nick had a wake up call and engaged with rehab and was inspired by the lack of support available to him and so founded Help 4 Addiction. It is an incredibly inspiring story, and Nick provides some words of wisdom to anyone going through similar struggles.

https://www.help4addiction.co.uk

https://www.youtube.com/@help4addiction24

Sam & Jack sat down with Vicky who has ben in recovery for 2 years. Vicky opens up about her addiction which began at the age of 12. Vicky's story is an honest one, having been married at the age of 23, owning her own business and keeping a cocaine addiction secret until she could no longer do so. An overdose, being sectioned and rehab eventually got Vicky to begin her recovery journey, inspired by Nick Conn @dadinrecovery and becoming part of the fellowship have allowed Vicky to be the positive person she is today.

Sam & Jack are joined by Adrian Cox from the band Bad Manners; musician, tour manager, manager and promotor. Adrian details his battle with addiction that started from the age of 15. He speaks openly about his alcohol and drug abuse that affected his entire life, as well as his gambling addiction which drove him to endless lies and deception. Adrian has been in recovery for almost 9 years and he has some great advice for people who are battling the same addictions. A very inspiring individual who is in a great point in his life, and oozes positivity!

Sam & Jack are joined by Gareth Lake again, previously on Episode 16 - Young Offender, Gareth opens up about his struggles post breakup with the mother of his children and managing being a Dad in a co parenting situation. Gareth gives advice to men going through similar struggles and sheds light on how he made it work. He also speaks openly about the relationship with his father, who he tragically lost during this period in his life, and reflects on those months together. A very honest part 2 with Gareth, and we look forward to having him on again in the future.

Sam & Jack were joined by Jason aka Beard Manners, who opens up about the devastating loss of his baby girl and how him and his family still deal with the grief and how they keep her with them wherever they go. Jason was very open about his own mental health and the things that help him, and he provides some great lessons and support for anyone experiencing the same difficulties he has been through. We talk the gym, cold water therapy and beards!!

https://www.beardmanners.com

Sam & Jack went to meet Buster aka Harry, and his daughter Claire. Buster tells all about his history with the sport of boxing, from training as a young Ipswich lad, to competing all over the world representing the RAF. He speaks about his love of the history of boxing and how he maintains a strict regime even now at the age of 88. Buster speaks honestly about his Parkinsons, and other medical issues, but he does not let them stop him with his active life. Buster tells us about running the London Marathon 3 times and the last time at the age of 70, his passion for supporting the miners strike back in the day and touches on his career with the Police. 

An amazing episode from a truly inspirational individual. Thank-you Buster

Sam and Jack Zoomed with Barry Morton, who details an honest story of his life, and battle with mental health which came to a head a few years ago. He tells of how this manifested and the things he used to help change his struggles. Barry is a big proponent of Cold Water Therapy and a group he turned to, Man Clan, who allow men to speak in an open forum and share experiences. Barry took part in DareToDip December and he provides some advice for anyone experiencing similar struggles as he did.

Sam & Jack Zoomed with Gary Miller just prior to New Year's, and in the midst of DareTo Dip December. Gary talks openly about his recovery from alcohol and his new found love for cold water therapy. Gary has founded a group similar to the Dare to Dip up in Scotland, making use of the beautiful Loch's for their own benefit. Gary also speaks about a cycling accident he suffered when he was hit by a car, but did not fall back into a slump of alcohol use. Gary provides some positive messages for those in a similar situation to him, and provides an honest take on how he manages his mental health.

A secondary recording due to the original plan not going how it should have. Our interviewee was very much at the starting point of his recovery from addiction and so Sam & Jack decided to hold off the interview, they discuss this at length and also look ahead to 2023 and Sam's new challenge of entering the boxing ring. Also discussed is Dare To Dip December and now being at the half way point, and Jack opens up about his struggle to get his training mojo back.

Sam & Jack are joined by Mick who speaks openly about his alcoholism, functioning as a paramedic, the incident that was the catalyst for his recovery, and how he got to 24 years sober. This is an inspirational story from a man who is now entering a new phase of his life showing signs of early on set dementia. An honest story about recovery.

Sam & Jack sat down with Rick Ward and chatted about two important topics for men. Weight gain and hair loss was causing a lot of insecurity so Rick decided to do something about it and has lost over 4 1/2 stone in weight, and then decided to get a hair transplant. In this episode Rick opens up about his insecurities in the hope to inspire others.

Sam & Jack are joined by Reece Calver, who opens up about his struggles with Long Covid. From catching the virus early on in February 2020 whilst on tour with a dance company, Reece's whole life was changed. He explains the various symptoms he suffered and the new project he now begins with Long-Term Creative.

On the eve of #DareToDipDecember the boys catchup on recent events, its been a while! Jack has been climbing mountains, running and hiking 21 miles for Movember, Sam has been ill a lot...... A look ahead to dare to dip december plus an amusing part One to Jack's butthole chronicles!

Told by his loving partner Lucy, this is the story of Daniel and his addiction. It does not discriminate, and it can happen to anyone. Daniel was a teacher, and head of english and drama at the Ipswich Academy, before alcohol took control of his life and led him to a tragic end. Daniel was 41 years old. Lucy has been so incredibly brave and strong, spreading awareness about addiction to others, so they don't suffer like her family did. 

For information and support: 

https://nacoa.org.uk

Sam & Jack sat down in Nutshells by-the-sea in Felixstowe with Ian. 

Ian, who owns Nutshells with his wife Jill, details the story of a devastating fire at their previous cafe,  Nutshells in Stowupland, and the amazing story of their comeback, with the help of a community they built, and a lot of hardwork, they are back on track. A truly inspirational story!  

 https://www.suffolknews.co.uk/felixstowe/get-a-glimpse-inside-new-nutshells-by-the-sea-9276595/

Jack is still working away, so Sam and him held a zoom call with Rob who shares his story of addiction and how it ruined his life. Rob opens up about going to rehab, the aftermath, and what he did to reconcile wrongdoing as part of his recovery. Rob also offers advice to others who are in the same situation.

During the epic adventure to Scotland, the boys had the privilege of travelling to meet Ken Smith "The Hermit of Treig". Sam and Jack sat with Ken for a few hours, discussing his life and reading excerpts from his journal and letters, they also helped Ken collect wood for his hut. The boys also met Lizzie MacKenzie who made the BBC documentary about Ken and his way of life, this can still be found on the BBC iplayer The Hermit of Treig.

Sam, Jack and Rob debriefed Scotland via Zoom, they talk about the struggles of the Ben Nevis, the incredible sense of achievement hitting the summit has brought them, and the positive lift it has brought their lives back down in Suffolk. The guys also reflect on an amazing trip in the beautiful Corrour Estate, and dips in Loch Ossian.

Sam, Jack, Rob and Mark all sat down at Corrour Station to discuss the days ahead in beautiful Scotland. The positives of cold water therapy, Loch Ossian, Ben Nevis, and going to meet Ken Smith "The Hermit of Treig." An amazing time was had by all, accomplishments achieved and time well spent!

Sam and Jack are joined by Marika, who opens up about her traumatic, rollercoaster life with health issues; from having cancer at the age of 22 and needing multiple operations, to suffering a stroke, to diabetes. Marika lives each day as it comes and remains positive with her outlook on life, with a selfless approach to her career and helping others. 

Sam has COVID for the third time...... so Jack organised a zoom call for a catchup and a look ahead. The duo also discuss recent news of her Royal Highness the Queen sadly passing away, as well as the new age of De-Platforming and how this can affect society in the future. This episode was recorded as a Zoom chat, video available on the DareToTalk youtube channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvbVErgtEjSGV2Ox2Gz20Lg

Sam and Jack are joined by Steven Bundy. Steve's brother was tragically murdered a number of years ago and died in Steve's arms. This triggered an already spiralling Steve into a chaotic world of substance misuse, suicide attempts and self harm. Fast forward to now and Steve is on the road to recovery, and in a good place with his life. Steve opens up about some traumatic moments in his life but has learnt from all of this, and has messages of support for anyone struggling right now.

Sam and Jack are joined by Jamie who talks about how his life changed one fateful day. In his own words, Jamie details awful health anxiety which plagued him and his family for many years, but he turned it all around and now dedicates his life to helping others. Jamie shares his tools which helped him to gain control of his issues and encourages others to do the same.

Sam and Jack were joined by Emily, who shares her story of dealing with eating disorders, not only in the past, but right now in her current life. She goes into detail on the affect it had on her and her life, the advice she gives to anyone in the same situation and how to cope, as well as the work she does now and her plans for the future.

For anyone struggling with an eating disorder, or if you know anyone who is in the same situation, there is support available: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk

Sam and Jack are joined by Laura Watts, who opens up about her grief at losing both her parents at a young age, as well as raising her own child. Laura talks about the close bond she had with her mum and how it has influenced her in raising her daughter. Laura explains how she managed her grief later in life, how she is now and her plans for the future.

Sam and Jack sat down for a catchup. They both have a month to go before hitting big milestones, Sam will be 12 months sober on September 10th, and will be completing Ben Nevis a few weeks after. Jack talks about improving on his challenge last year at the London Marathon by completing the three highest peaks in Scotland only a week prior to running London again. Both also discuss the journey they have been on to this point and the impact it has had on there mentality.

Sam and Jack are joined by Zoe who talks openly about the grief she experienced losing both parents as a young mother herself. Zoe talks about how she coped with the circumstances and how she has got to where she is now in life. 

Sam and Jack update us on there own news and announce more plans for DareToDip December.

Sam & Jack sat down for a catchup on recent events, and to discuss Grief and their own experiences of the emotion, the impact it can have on an individual, and how you can build from these low points in life. Also announced #DareToDip December! Check out the facebook page for details.

Sam and Jack sat down with Will, who opens up about his drinking as a youth and developing an unhealthy relationship with alcohol. Will has chosen to not drink anymore, not because of addiction, but a lifestyle choice, and he discusses  the benefits and positive impact it has had on his life. Will also speaks about the importance of men opening up about their feelings, cold water therapy, and exercise.

Sam and Jack discuss their trip to Scotland, the dip in Loch Ossian, summiting Leum Ulleim, Corrour Station with Harry and big plans for later this year.

Sam and Jack sat down with Daryl, who opens up about his inspirational story escaping a terrifying cocaine habit. Daryl explains how he was brought to his knees by his demons and then set free by his recovery. Daryl has come a long way with his recovery and offers some words of advice for those still stuck in their addiction. 

Sam and Jack sit down with Gareth Lake, who opens up about his chaotic youth as a young offender, his thought process and approach to violence, what changed the course for his life, and the lessons young adults can learn from his story. Gareth had a lot to talk about and will be back for part two in the near future..

Sam and Jack sat down for a catchup on recent events. This episode brings poetry to DareToTalk in the form of 'The Cookie Thief' by Valerie Cox, (Sam's idea) Plus a look ahead to upcoming guests, adventures and a trip to the dentist... Also included is a chosen topic episode recorded a couple of weeks ago following the guys trip to Southend, RELIGION and what it means to them.

"BE BRAVE OR TOUGH ENOUGH TO DEAL WITH A DIFFICULT OR UNPLEASANT SITUATION"

MEN, TALKING TO MEN. CHANGE PEOPLES THOUGHTS, OPINIONS & MINDS ABOUT MEN & MENTAL HEALTH.

Sam and Jack are joined by Dan Somers, founder of charity Manup? They discuss the difficulties of the modern world and how individuals deal with them, Dan speaks openly about his own journey to starting Manup? the plans for the future, and the impact their work has already had.

https://www.manup.how

Facebook: MANUP?

Instagram: manup.how

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MANUPhow/featured

Sam and Jack travelled to Southend to chat to "Sober Michael" or @happywithoutthehooch. Michael opened up about his addiction to alcohol, and his skiing trip to Italy which left him in two foot of snow with a broken leg and not a ski in sight. He provides some advice for those in addiction right now, and what helped him to reach 15 months sober.

Sam and Jack return after a short break. Jack discusses his time away in the "greatest city in the world" Benidorm and his brief romance with a 'pocket rocket' from Leeds. Sam then discusses a much requested talking point. Bali, and the holiday that quickly became something far different to what was originally planned..

Sam and Jack are joined by Sam's Dad, Andy, who at the age of 29 was diagnosed with Testicular Cancer. Married with 3 young children, Andy underwent treatment and was successful in getting the all clear. This a story of survival, and a story to raise awareness not only in young men to check themselves, but for Cancer Research and the amazing work they do.

Guest-less episode, Sam and Jack sat down prior to Mental Health Awareness week to discuss their own day to day management of their mental health and the current situations they are dealing with. They also cover the current impact of the podcast and the plans for the future.