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.