The Guiding Light

From Gambling Addiction to Global Advocacy: Matt Zarb-Cousin’s Battle for Change In episode ten of The Guiding Light Podcast, hosts Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham sit down with Matt Zarb-Cousin, whose journey from teenage gambling addiction to pioneering activist and entrepreneur offers valuable insights into the complexities of addiction, recovery, and systemic reform. Matt’s story begins at age 16, when he fell victim to Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs). By the time he reached 20, his debts soared to £20,000, and he reached a point of desperation and despair. In this candid conversation, Matt reveals how his addiction not only led him into severe financial trouble, but also left lasting scars on his mental health, still influencing him a decade into recovery. Now the co-founder of Gamban—an innovative software designed to block gambling websites—Matt channelled his past struggles into a mission to protect others. As Director of Clean Up Gambling and a key figure in the influential Stop the FOBTs campaign, his activism has helped reshape UK gambling legislation, culminating in the reduction of FOBT maximum bets from £100 to £2. Matt also highlights the importance of education, prevention, and ongoing support for those exiting treatment, underscoring the interplay between addictive products, mental health, and the industry’s relentless marketing strategies. Tune in as Matt Zarb-Cousin shares hard-won lessons, offers advice for anyone trapped in a cycle of addiction, and explains how understanding the forces behind harmful gambling practices can lead to meaningful, lasting change. This is a powerful episode that shines a light on both individual resilience and the collective effort needed to safeguard vulnerable communities.

Rock and Recovery: Laila K’s Journey Beyond Alcoholism  In episode nine of The Guiding Light Podcast, hosts Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham are joined by the dynamic Laila Khan, lead singer of the incredible band Sonic Boom Six. Known for her electric stage presence and powerful voice, Laila opens up about a deeply personal battle that unfolded behind the scenes of her "rock and roll" life—her struggles with alcoholism.   In this raw and candid conversation, Laila shares how she fell into the trap of relying on alcohol to feel more interesting and likable, both on and off stage. She reflects on how this dependence impacted her life, her relationships, and her sense of self. With honesty and vulnerability, Laila reveals the moment she realised that drinking didn’t define her identity or creativity.  Listeners will hear Laila’s journey to self-discovery and sobriety, as she breaks down the myths surrounding alcohol and explores how she reclaimed her true self. Her story is a powerful reminder that overcoming addiction doesn’t just mean giving something up—it’s about rediscovering who you truly are and embracing life with clarity and confidence. This episode is not just about recovery—it’s about resilience, self-worth, and the courage it takes to redefine your narrative. Whether you’re a fan of Sonic Boom Six, someone struggling with similar challenges, or just seeking inspiration, Laila’s story will leave you uplifted and empowered. Tune in to this episode of The Guiding Light Podcast for an unforgettable conversation with Laila Khan as she shares her path from addiction to authenticity, proving that true strength comes from within.

In episode eight of The Guiding Light Podcast, hosts Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham welcome the remarkable Ben Howard, a passionate advocate for change in the gambling harms sector and the criminal justice system. Ben’s story is one of profound transformation, resilience, and a relentless commitment to helping others. For 14 years, Ben dedicated his career to health and social care management, working with some of the most challenging individuals and achieving outstanding results in his role. However, in 2020, Ben’s life took a devastating turn when his personal gambling addiction led him down a dark path, culminating in an act of fraud that ended his career. In this powerful episode, Ben opens up about the challenges he faced as his addiction consumed his life and the long road to recovery that followed. Over the past three years, Ben has worked tirelessly on rebuilding himself, developing resilience, hope, and a mindset focused on empowerment and positive change. His journey from the depths of addiction to living a life free from gambling is nothing short of inspirational. Motivated by his own experience, Ben has become a beacon of hope for others struggling with similar issues. He shares how his commitment to recovery led him to take on various volunteer roles, where he now uses his lived experience to support and inspire others on their own paths to healing. As a role model, peer supporter, and qualified recovery coach, Ben’s work has had a profound impact on many lives. In this episode, Ben discusses his passion for advocating change within the gambling harms sector and the criminal justice system. He shares insights from his work as a lived experience researcher, his presentations to the Ministry of Justice, and his involvement in advisory boards focused on neurodiversity, criminal justice, and LGBTQ+ issues. Ben’s dedication to making a difference is evident in every aspect of his work. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ben Howard as he shares his journey of redemption, resilience, and advocacy. This episode is a testament to the power of recovery, the importance of lived experience, and the impact one person can have in driving meaningful change. Tune in to hear Ben’s story and learn how he is helping to shape a brighter future for others through his unwavering commitment to positive transformation.

In episode seven of The Guiding Light Podcast, hosts Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham are joined by the passionate and insightful Sofie Day, a leading voice in equity, diversity, and inclusion. Sofie brings a wealth of experience as an MSc in Addiction Psychology & Counselling, an FDAP-accredited professional, and a fierce advocate for mental health, neurodiversity, and LGBTQIA+ rights. Sofie’s journey is one of transformation and advocacy, shaped by her own lived experiences. Having found healing from two decades of battling eating disorders, Sofie is deeply committed to guiding others toward freedom from addiction, homelessness, and employment struggles. Her personal story is not just about overcoming adversity, but about using that experience to drive change and create opportunities for others. In this episode, Sofie shares her views on the urgent need for acceptance and inclusion, both professionally and personally. She discusses the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace, especially those within sectors focused on mental health, addiction, and homelessness. Sofie’s advocacy extends to protecting the lived experience professional cohort, highlighting the often-overlooked vulnerabilities of these valuable employees. Sofie also sheds light on the systemic issues within organisations that fail to support their most vulnerable staff, sharing her frustrations with archaic HR practices that jeopardise the mental health of those they should be protecting. Her insights into the intersectionality of neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ identity, and mental health are both powerful and eye-opening. Ben and Chris engage Sofie in a thought-provoking dialogue about the importance of compassion, empathy, and psychological safety in the workplace. Together, they explore how fostering an inclusive environment can lead to sustainable and rewarding employment for all, regardless of background or neurotype. This episode is not just an exploration of Sofie’s personal and professional journey, but a call to action for greater equity and inclusion in all aspects of life. Sofie’s message is clear: together, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive world, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Tune in to this inspiring and educational episode of The Guiding Light Podcast to hear Sofie Day’s powerful story and learn how we can all contribute to a more equitable future.

In episode six of The Guiding Light Podcast, hosts Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham welcome the remarkable Alice Hendy MBE, CEO and Founder of Ripple Suicide Prevention. Alice's personal journey and dedication have led to ground-breaking advancements in the fight against self-harm and suicide through innovative technology. In this deeply moving episode, Alice shares the heart-breaking story behind Ripple's inception. After tragically losing her only sibling, Josh, to suicide at the age of 21, Alice was compelled to act. Josh's struggles were compounded by the harmful internet searches he conducted in his final days, revealing a dire need for better online support and intervention. Ripple Suicide Prevention is Alice's answer to this need. By leveraging innovative technology, Ripple intercepts harmful online content and provides immediate mental health support and resources to those in crisis. Alice's passion and determination to prevent others from feeling alone in their struggle drive the organisation's mission to save lives. Throughout the conversation, Alice delves into the innovative strategies employed by Ripple, highlighting the crucial role of technology in mental health intervention. She discusses the challenges and successes of building a platform that offers real-time support and the impact it has had on countless individuals seeking help. Ben and Chris explore the broader implications of Ripple's work, emphasising the importance of community involvement and support. Alice extends an invitation to listeners to join the Ripple Suicide Prevention team in their collective effort to be effective. With the support of the community, Ripple aims to create a world where immediate mental health resources are accessible to all, preventing the tragedy of suicide. This episode of The Guiding Light Podcast is not only an exploration of innovative mental health solutions but also a powerful call to action. Alice Hendy's story and the mission of Ripple Suicide Prevention serve as a testament to the profound impact one person's dedication can have in transforming lives and fostering hope. Tune in to this inspiring episode to learn more about the vital work of Ripple Suicide Prevention and how you can contribute to their life-saving mission. It is a conversation that underscores the importance of innovation, compassion, and collective action in the fight against suicide.

Welcome to episode five of The Guiding Light Podcast, where hosts Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham sit down with the inspiring Perry Blake, a driving force behind The 21UP Movement. This youth intervention and empowerment program is dedicated to providing support, guidance, and opportunities for young people to realise their full potential. In this episode, Perry shares the incredible work of The 21UP Movement, a not-for-profit organisation that addresses the significant impact social and environmental factors can have on young people's mental health. By creating a safe and supportive space, The 21UP Movement helps young individuals come together, flourish, and build brighter futures. Listeners will gain insight into the various initiatives and partnerships that make The 21UP Movement a beacon of hope in Essex. From collaborating with Essex Youth Service, local councils, and multiple schools, to offering mentorship programs, the movement is dedicated to empowering youth through a myriad of activities and projects. Perry discusses the importance of building confidence, battling mental health issues, and developing new skills through community projects, event organisation, and public speaking opportunities. The conversation delves into the creative avenues offered by The 21UP Movement, such as music, poetry, and creative writing workshops, which help young people express themselves and find their voice. Perry also highlights the videography and sound engineering courses that enable members to create and host podcasts, fostering confidence, communication skills, and new interactions. Perry talks about the movement's unique approach to youth empowerment through its clothing brand, which creates modelling opportunities and photography courses, allowing young people to explore both sides of the camera. The production of music videos promoting anti-youth violence further exemplifies the movement's commitment to giving youth a platform to share their messages and make a positive impact. Perry's passion shines through as he discusses the impact of black-tie events, which help young members feel included and valued. These diverse activities contribute to a sense of belonging and support, having a tremendously positive impact on the mental health and well-being of young people. Join us for an uplifting and informative episode as Perry Blake of The 21UP Movement shares his vision and the transformative power of youth empowerment. This conversation is a testament to the incredible work being done to create a brighter future for today's youth, providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed and thrive. Don't miss this inspiring episode of The Guiding Light Podcast.

Welcome back to The Guiding Light Podcast for our fourth episode, where we embark on a deeply personal and inspirational journey with co-host Chris Gilham. In this special episode, Chris bravely opens up to his fellow presenter Ben Holmes, sharing his multifaceted story of resilience, recovery, and self-discovery. Listeners are in for a riveting and enlightening experience as Chris delves into the layers of his mental health journey, addressing topics ranging from alcoholism to gambling addiction to ADHD. His story is one of triumph over adversity, as he navigates the complexities of mental health with courage, vulnerability, and unwavering determination. Buckle in for an episode and a half as Chris takes us on a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of his life, offering profound insights and invaluable lessons along the way. From the depths of addiction to the challenges of managing ADHD, Chris's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the human capacity for transformation. Throughout the episode, Ben provides unwavering support and encouragement as Chris bravely confronts his past and embraces his journey toward healing and self-acceptance. Together, they explore the intersections of mental health, addiction, and identity, shedding light on the often misunderstood and stigmatised aspects of these experiences. This episode of The Guiding Light Podcast is more than just a conversation—it's a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with their own mental health challenges. Through Chris's story, listeners will find inspiration, validation, and a sense of solidarity in knowing that they are not alone on their journey toward wellness. So, join us as we uncover the layers of Chris Gilham's remarkable journey, celebrating the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity. It's an episode you won't want to miss—a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always light to guide us forward.

Welcome back to The Guiding Light Podcast for our third episode, where hosts Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham are honoured to be joined by the remarkable Emma Shaw. In this emotionally charged episode, Emma bravely shares her lived experience with anorexia nervosa, offering a candid and heartfelt account of her journey toward healing and recovery. Listeners are in for a deeply moving and enlightening conversation as Emma opens up about her struggles with anorexia, shedding light on the complexities of eating disorders and the pervasive impact they can have on individuals. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of speaking out against stigma and shame. As we observe Eating Disorder Awareness Week 2024, Emma's voice rings loud and clear as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who may be silently struggling with their own battles. With honesty and vulnerability, she shares the highs and lows of her journey, from the depths of despair to the moments of triumph and self-discovery. Ben and Chris provide a compassionate space for Emma to share her story, asking thoughtful questions and offering support every step of the way. Together, they explore the challenges of living with an eating disorder, dispelling myths and misconceptions while fostering understanding and empathy. This episode of The Guiding Light Podcast is not just an interview—it's a call to action to break the silence surrounding eating disorders and to create a culture of support and acceptance for those affected. Through Emma's courageous storytelling, listeners will gain insight into the complexities of anorexia nervosa and the importance of seeking help and finding hope in the journey toward recovery. Join us as we amplify Emma Shaw's voice and honour her strength and resilience in the face of adversity. It's a conversation that will touch your heart, challenge your perceptions, and inspire you to be a guiding light for others in their darkest moments.

Welcome back to The Guiding Light Podcast for our second episode, where hosts Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham are joined by the courageous Julie Martin. In this emotionally charged episode, Julie opens up about her experience as an affected other, navigating the tumultuous waters of being the wife of someone with a gambling addiction. Listeners will be moved by Julie's raw and honest account of the challenges, demonstrating vulnerability and strength throughout. Ben and Chris provide a compassionate space for Julie to share her story, asking thought-provoking questions and offering support along the way. Together, they explore the impact of addiction on relationships, family dynamics, and mental well-being, shedding light on the often overlooked experiences of affected others. Through Julie's journey, listeners gain insight into the complexities of addiction from a different perspective, learning about the ripple effects that extend far beyond the individual struggling with the addiction. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and support for those affected by addiction. This episode of The Guiding Light Podcast is not just a conversation—it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of sharing our stories. Join us as we dive deep into Julie Martin's emotional journey, shining a light on the untold experiences of affected others and offering hope to those who may be walking a similar path. Tune in to this poignant episode as Julie Martin bravely shares her shattered heart and finds healing in the power of vulnerability and connection. It's a story of love, loss, and ultimately, resilience—a story that will touch your heart and inspire you to keep seeking the light in the darkest of moments.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Guiding Light Podcast, where host and podcast founder Ben Holmes opens up his heart and shares a powerful narrative of resilience and recovery. In this emotionally charged episode, Ben is joined by the insightful Chris Gilham as they embark on a conversation that transcends the boundaries of mental health and addiction. Listeners will be taken on a rollercoaster of emotions as Ben bravely recounts his personal journey from the darkest days of mental health struggles and addiction to the transformative moments that led him toward the path of recovery. The episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the possibility of finding light even in the most challenging circumstances. Expect moments of vulnerability, hope, and inspiration as Ben shares the pivotal turning points that shaped his recovery. The episode is not only a personal story but also a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with their own battles. Through this intimate conversation, The Guiding Light Podcast aims to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Join us on this inaugural episode as Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham set the tone for The Guiding Light Podcast, where stories of resilience, recovery, and redemption take centre stage. It's a journey from darkness to light, and you won't want to miss a moment of this powerful and uplifting conversation.