In this special episode, Shell is joined by Steve Lawson, community researcher at the Essex Recovery Foundation, ahead of the weekend’s Essex Recovery Festival - a celebration of connection, visibility, and healing through community.

Steve shares his powerful personal journey from military life and working fatherhood, to depression, addiction, and the moment he knew something had to change. Now two years sober, he reflects on how recovery transformed not just his life, but his relationships, identity and gave him purpose.

Together, they explore:

• How alcohol is normalised (and glamorised) in British culture
• The hidden link between mental health and substance use
• The myth of “functioning addiction” and the danger of waiting until it's too late
• Men’s mental health and why it’s still so hard to talk about
• Why recovery isn’t boring — it’s expansive, joyful and full of second chances

Steve also shares what to expect from this year’s Essex Recovery Festival, including breathwork, sound healing, axe throwing (!), live music, and the kind of connection that can change lives.

Whether you're sober, sober-curious, or still figuring it out this episode shows what real recovery looks like when it's rooted in community, not shame.

https://www.essexrecoveryfoundation.org/festival

https://www.essexrecoveryfoundation.org/

For more information on We Recover Loudly and to reach out for speaking engagements or support email hello@werecoverloudly.com

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