Straight Edge The Podcast

Clive has lived and breathed Hair for his whole career. Travelling around the globe from London, to Hong Kong. Australia to LA. His career exploded phenomenally throughout the 90's and 00's and he relocated to Los Angeles as the Global Director of KMS. On his return to Australia, with his now wife Jane, Clive has owned his salon "Our Place" in Sydneys exclusive Potts Point, with business partner Kelly for 10 years. Now celebrating over 4 years of sobriety, Clive shares his raw and brutally honest account of his life. He explains his years of struggles with addiction and how it effected his whole life, his health, his beloved family and prompted his friends to intervene several times. Now an avid ocean swimmer, Clive is a passionate advocate for the sober life and all the positive benefits he has experienced since starting his journey to recovery. 

Amie has 25 years of extensive media experience as a TV, Radio and Podcast Producer. Alongside this she has vast industry experience as a TV / Radio Host, workshop facilitator, branding / design and business development. It was her investment in Bondi Radio Media Group, where she developed her love for podcasting, where so was Co-owner and Head of Media.    2 years ago, Amie was diagnosed with ADHD, which significantly changed her life and led to a greater level of self acceptance. She shares her raw, honest account of eating disorders, anxiety, depression and the break down of her marriage that lead her to drink. 

Louise has been in the Hair & Beauty Industry for 37 years. As a previous owner of 3 businesses she also has a background in professional Haircare & Skincare Formulations & Private Branding. She is a judge for the Australian Hair Industry Awards, Beauty Awards and Modern Barber Awards. Louise also her own mentoring business for hair & beauty salon owners AND is the Editor in Chief of Mocha Group. During Covid, and after a stream of family illnesses, Louise realised her drinking became a habit. She quit for 121 days and used NLP to reprogram her thinking. In this episode we explore all things Mummy wine culture, Grey Area Drinking and alternative methods of healing. 

Shane was the previous CEO of Weave Youth Services and the Winner of a lifetime achievement award from Network of Alcohol and Drug Agencies. He also gained a lifetime achievement award for his work in the youth sector, with over 35 years of experience.  He is a counsellor and has provided AOD counselling to mostly young people and families.      In this episode, Shane shares his professional advice for those suffering with addiction and stories of those whom he has helped, along with open discussions on his own previous addiction too cigarettes and how he overcame that.  For those who might need extra help after listening to this podcast you can access the following services (in Sydney) :  National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline (Australia)  This hotline provides confidential support for people struggling with addiction. You can call the Alcohol Drug Information Service (ADIS) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 1800 250 015.   Common helpline numbers NSW https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/aod/Pages/contact-service.aspx List of Rehabs in NSW https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/aod/Pages/wmrs-contact.aspx#bookmark1   youtube about how addiction happens Nuggets https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUngLgGRJpo

Andrew Addie is a gay man who kicked booze with the help of a home detox program. Having access to LGBTIQ+ affirming care was critical to his recovery. Andrew now uses his diversity & inclusion expertise to build capacity in others to take on the world alcohol free.    ---------------------- Andrew is a diversity and inclusion specialist and has a passion to ensure everyone is included, valued and celebrated in their workplaces and communities. He is an experienced advocate and has a knack for identifying problems and then coming up with solutions. Andrew is a natural relationship builder, networker and all round good egg. Since giving up alcohol, he's been very open about his journey with mental health and addiction, and coming out as both a gay man and as a non-drinker. He's an avid life saver, pole dancer and person of unbridled hilarity. Andrew took over the helm of Untoxicated as CEO for over a year (2021-22) and continues to be involved as their Sydney lead. Read his story here: https://untoxicated.com.au/owningit/andrew

Nic is a 27 year old Sydney sider, celebrating 6 months of sobriety. What went from a seemingly "normal" life of work and weekend parties soon turned into a dangerous spiral of drinking, drugs and Valium.  In this episode, hear how he turned his whole life around before it was too late and how he now gives back through mentoring and sharing his story. 

Peter Lorimer, sober for 22 years is a UK-born entrepreneur, real estate expert, and co-host of NETFLIX's “Stay Here,” is a renowned music producer with over 30 #1 Billboard chart hits by 2003. When it comes to the real estate world, he has been a consistently significant top producer in the Los Angeles property arena for over a decade. Serving the more creatively-minded residents, Peter and his wife Cindy are the founders of eponymous brokerage PLG Estates — a new brokerage that fuses the art of handling incredibly delicate and private VIP clientele whilst giving them the feeling of being “inside the velvet rope,” https://www.instagram.com/peterlorimer/ https://peterlorimer.com https://www.facebook.com/PeterLorimerOfficial/ https://www.youtube.com/@PeterLorimerOfficial https://www.tiktok.com/@peterlorimer_la  

Sarah is a certified Women's Health and Wellbeing Coach, an accredited Grey Area Drinking Coach and a Key-Note speaker sharing her journey to Sobriety and impact of alcohol on mental health to global audiences. After developing what she describes as 'a dysfunctional relationship with alcohol', Sarah made the decision to remove alcohol from her life in early 2019 and has never looked back. She now works with women across the globe, guiding them from feeling lost, stuck and out of control (something she fully understands herself), to a healthier and happier way of living.

As the face of “CHOOSE YOUR SOBER”, a term which she coined to highlight that sobriety is a spectrum, this highly sought after speaker, sober coach, health & fitness consultant, columnist and founder of SOBEROBICS, Lisa Greenberg loves sharing her real life stories and happiness hacks of inspiration, connection, and overcoming self-doubt through enhanced self-love, self-belief and self-worth. She's especially passionate about inspiring, elevating and empowering women to increase their awareness of their relationship with alcohol and to stop viewing it through the lens of a magic fix-all elixir.   While not terribly enamoured with the term “life coach”, Lisa prefers to call herself a “Love Your Life Coach” as she views her life passion and purpose as providing support and knowledge to bridge the gap between the wanting happy and doing happy.  Lisa is adamant that happy is a verb rather than a noun, and she “does happy” every day, and encourages everyone to “do happy” daily.

A story of resilience, overcoming and the power of being "loved" back to life with Niall Colgan. Niall began his hairdressing career as part of the Hugh Campbell Hair Group where he stayed for twenty years. By the time he left, he had one of the top jobs in Irish Hairdressing as manager and Creative Director of the group's flagship Marbles salon. Niall was also a trainer at the L'Oreal National Academy in Dublin.  In 2009 Niall opened his own salon, Niall Colgan Hairdressing. As 2012 "Limerick Salon of the Year"  Niall's philosophy is "passion for hairdressing, dedication to service, ability to communicate and openness to learning with a desire to pass on knowledge". This is something he instills in all his team. He has always believed in growth through education, and is very much in demand throughout the country for his cutting seminars.

In this episode we speak to Eden Sassoon, daughter to one of the most iconic hairdressers in history, Vidal Sassoon. She shares her own, raw, honest and open story about her struggles with alcohol, the painful loss of her siblings to addiction and her passion to overcome. Eden Sassoon, is a well known beauty and wellness entrepreneur, reality TV star, salon owner and loving mother to her two children named Olivia and Taylor with ex-husband Tomer DeVito. Aside from her long list of accolades, Eden Sassoon, is also a philanthropist. Her most notable philanthropic  work is her non-profit organisation, Beauty Gives Back, an organisation that honours her late father, legendary Hairstylist Vidal Sassoon. Her foundation aims to unite the hair industry and the fight to end the global water crisis. She also helps people  get over their addiction.

In this episode we explore the growing world of Pornography and whether you can actually become addicted. We discuss the research into the effects on the brain and in particular the increase of exposure to teens and it's impacts. . Giselle Woodley is researcher and current PhD candidate under the School of Arts and Humanities at Edith Cowan University. Her research examines teens' perspectives of pornography and sexuality education. Giselle is a sexologist who is particularly interested in reducing sexual violence and promoting Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE), especially in terms of building respect, communication skills and healthy Relationships. .

In this episode we chat with iconic, Award winning, celebrity Hairstylist - Louis Byrne. He shares his incredibly inspiring story over overcoming, learning to listen to our body, deeply connecting to our own identity and using his past trauma in the most uplifting way. Louis Byrne is an international hair stylist who has worked many editorial shoots for Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Dazed, ID and L'Officiel and campaigns for Net-a-Porter and Nike. Louis is also personal hair stylist for Emma Willis, Vicky McClure plus many more actors, models and musicians. This platform has provided Louis the momentum to launch his empowering and motivational movement I Can, I Am and I Will. Throughout his extensive career Louis has won multiple awards for his work. Most wanted Finalist, BHA Men's Hairdresser of the year, BHA London Finalist, BHA Newcomer Finalist Louis said ‘I've found my true niche and drive; my real passion is making people look and feel great. To me, it's always more than just hairdressing, it's also the connection and relationships I have built with clients over the years – it is incredible.” More recently, his passion for people's wellbeing and creating beautiful imagery has blended with his empowerment movement, ICIAIW. The movement empowers people to own their identity and completely embrace who and what they are in a positive way.   https://iciaiw.com https://www.instagram.com/louisbyrneiciaiw        

At only 22, Harry has already been gaming for 10+ years and shares his experience about the growth in the industry and some deep, dark secrets of the online gaming space. We chat about the dopamine hits, how the industry "dangles a carrot" to keep you engaged and how he can easily spend a "working day" gaming online. Harry is a recent graduate who has come to realise the effects of over a decade of gaming, and how that can have an impact on an individual. He is here to discuss the good parts, the bad parts, what led to his addiction and precautionary warnings for things to come. 

In this episode we reflect on the journey so far with Straight Edge The Podcast. We chat about our own personal experiences of interviewing all of our incredible guests and thank every listener who has joined us and supported us so far! A special thank you to our guests of 2023 - Eden Sassoon, Niall Colgan, Peter Lorimer, Louis Byrne, Lisa G, Sarah Rusbatch, Giselle Woodley, Harry Crichton Clark, Shane Brown, Andrew Addie and Nic Unsworth for not only sharing their story but helping us share ours!    We can't wait for 2024 and see where that take us! 

In this episode we talk with Alan Earnshaw, who shares his intimate story of recovery and growth. From being addicted to Heroin, then other substances, to finding a new life in Seattle USA, where he now lives a simple life off the grid, spending his days building his relationship with God and helping others in their recovery. Alan Earnshaw is the ultimate educator and motivator, with a worldwide reputation based on more than 40 years' experience in the hairdressing industry. Born and raised in Manchester England Alan trained and honed his skills as a hairstylist. In 1980 Alan moved to Australia where he took up a position in one of Perth's most prestigious salons as a hairstylist, he swiftly moved from stylist to staff trainer, eventually becoming art director. His reputation as a first-class hairdresser, trainer, motivator and team builder soon had him in demand as a platform artist.   Building on his reputation of a no-nonsense approach to inspirational technical, product and business education Alan went on to a 33 year career with an international product company. Alan soon became the premier resource for the company attaining the position of Global Programs Manager, educating salon owners and stylists around the globe.   Throughout his forty year career in the salon industry, Alan has gained tremendous experience and achievement as an accomplished, passionate and enthusiastic communicator. Having presented to hairdressers in over 35 countries, Alan is recognized and highly respected worldwide as one of the industry's leading educators.

In this first episode of Series 2, we reconnect with Niall Colgan. He shares more details of his recovery process and answers some of the burning questions we had sent in from our listeners. He also shares the heart warming story of when his son Hugo, heard our previous podcast in Series 1, held his hand and said, "Dad, you really did go from zero to hero!" 

Michael is a top tech executive, born and raised in Australia. He has lived in California for the last 20 years with his wife and 2 kids. Back in 2019, both himself, his wife, family and work realised there was a problem. From doing shots of Vodka in the morning to hiding Vodka in the park, it was time for a change. And he shares his heartwarming story to recovery

"Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good"  In this episode we chat to the iconic Celebrity Hair Stylist, Jason Schneidman. He shares his journey from, drifting through life, partying and surfing to the moment he woke up at 34 and realised he was broken needed to stop.  He left San Diego and headed home to LA, where he transformed his life into the magical one it is today. From shampooing Brad Pitt to building his own successful Salon business, to creating California Born, hair styling products and Foundation.  While on the streets, Jason has found that those struggling with drugs and alcohol addiction are the ones he can help the most. Connecting with them because he has been there himself. Jason is working in detoxs, rehabs and sober livings providing funding through the sales of his products and people's donations. His Foundation is creating a community to help people get off the street, and back on their feet.    www.californiaborn.com 

Established Author, creator and influencer, Jenny Valentish has had an incredible life journey.  In this episode, she shares her story from childhood trauma, to accomplished writer, to the music industry influence of the 90's and her eventual surrender and healing.  As author of several books and in depth researcher of all things addiction, Jenny has reshaped her life through exploration and honesty and has succeeded to reinvent the wheel of her own recovery. 

Anna Cee is a DJ and Promoter from Brighton. She has been Djing professionally for the whole 15 years of her recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, so has a unique story to tell of consistent sober days and nights in the Dance Music Industry.  Anna runs an All - Female UK based House Music Brand called Queens House Sessions which is a collective of talented DJs, Vocalists (and a brilliant) Photographer. The Ethos of the brand reflects Anna's recovery principles of Equality, Integrity and Inclusion.    https://www.facebook.com/groups/209328135932223/

Stewart Roberts, MBE, has worked in the Hair industry for most of his life. With 18 years of sobriety under his belt, Haircuts4Homeless started by accident in November 2014, after Stewart was volunteering at a Salvation Army in Essex.   "I had recently seen a guy on Facebook doing makeovers on homeless people on the street so thought I'll bring my scissors to the next session and give some haircuts."   Little did he know it would change his life.   Now they have 68 projects across the UK & Ireland, 600 volunteers and have given over 60,000 haircuts. "I soon realised that it was much more than a haircut that we were giving. It's about respect, connection, touch and communication."   His own podcast called “Hear Me, See Me.” Podcast and is available through Acast and on Spotify, iTunes, YouTube and Amazon Music.   www.haircuts4homeless.com    http://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/hear-me-see-me   info@haircuts4homeless.com   

In this episode we chat with the legendary Australian actor, Martin Dingle-Wall, where he shares a deep dive into his life growing up in Australia, his career and his journey to celebrate 10 years of sobriety. Martin was first introduced to Australian audiences with the arrival of his character Dr Flynn Saunders in Home & Away earning him his Logie nomination for ‘Most Popular New Talent'.  He would go on to become a series regular on many of Australia's most popular Award Winning shows including Satisfaction, Rescue Special Ops, Underbelly, Upper Middle Bogan to the Lead his own series COPS L.A.C.  Martin was introduced to his American audience with his lead role in the Multi Award Winning Film HAPPY HUNTING (Amazon) which holds a 100% Critics Rating on Rotten Tomatoes

In this episode we speak to Ariel, a former alcoholic and user turned leader of a detox centre in the USA.  "I love helping people and I want to continue helping people I work with at the substance - abuse facility. I live a beautiful, happy life today substance free"   

Jo Cowan has been at the helm for an admirable 22 years with INSTYLE and Styleicons and now heads up all sales and commercial opportunities as the National Sales Director for each of Hair Festival's four main pillars; Shop, Learn, Compete and Connect. Also an experienced long distance runner, Jo Cowan's story is one of persistence underpinned by a love of running that has never been extinguished. She consistently ranked in the top 10 for the marathon and half marathon in Australia. Unfortunately in 2019, Jo discovered a heart defect and had to have immediate surgery, a decision that would forever change her life and spiral her into a deep disconnect from the world. She was eventually committed and had a lengthy stay in hospital to recover. Now blooming and back in love with life she shares her story and her passion to de-stigmatise mental health issues. 

Ryan has been clean and sober for 15 years, since Grand Final Day 2009. An active, fit and healthy young man, playing AFL throughout his younger years, he had his first drink at 16. That lead to a pathway of bad choices and almost ruined his life.   He first asked for help at 21 years old, then the battle was on to finally make it into 12 step fellowship, the day he says changed his life forever. He believes these steps have saved his life multiple times, even through a recent gambling addiction, he has now luckily overcome.    If he's not at work, you'll find him in the surf, on the golf course, or working with other alcoholics to pass on to others the gift of recovery, the gift of life that he's been given.  

Rebekah became active in an eating disorder (ED) at the age of 8. It swallowed up her teens and early twenties. Before recovery, she felt stuck, like she was running on the spot burning a hole in the carpet but never going anywhere.  Now, Rebekah has been in recovery  for 15 years, a day at a time, and the ED doesn't run her life anymore. She lives in sunny Perth with her fiancé, where she works as a freelance writer and gets down to the beach as often as possible.   

*TRIGGER WARNING* This episode contains adult only content, with descriptions of drug use and cursing   In this episode, we interview Darcy Cogdale, a former addict who turned his life around. Darcy shares his journey from addiction and criminal activities to becoming a motivational speaker and fitness coach. He discusses the impact of childhood trauma and bullying on his life and how he found solace in drugs and graffiti. Darcy also opens up about the turning point that led him to seek sobriety and the challenges he faced during his journey. Through his story, Darcy emphasises the importance of mindset and self-reflection in overcoming addiction and finding happiness. Darcy's life spirals out of control, leading him to jail, where he begins to reflect and journal about his experiences.    https://drcfit.com

*TRIGGER WARNING* This episode contains adult only content, with descriptions of drug use and cursing   In this episode, we interview Darcy Cogdale, a former addict who turned his life around. Darcy shares his journey from addiction and criminal activities to becoming a motivational speaker and fitness coach. He discusses the impact of childhood trauma and bullying on his life and how he found solace in drugs and graffiti. Darcy also opens up about the turning point that led him to seek sobriety and the challenges he faced during his journey. Through his story, Darcy emphasises the importance of mindset and self-reflection in overcoming addiction and finding happiness. Darcy's life spirals out of control, leading him to jail, where he begins to reflect and journal about his experiences.    https://drcfit.com

A self confessed Codependent and a Workaholic who also liked a drink, Hilary has been a long respected member of the Hair Industry for 5 Decades. "Codependency refers to a psychological construct involving an unhealthy relationship that people might share with those closest to them." (reference; https://positivepsychology.com/codependency-definition-signs-worksheets/#overcome-codependency) Owning 2 of her own Salons, she also worked for well known Hair company's and began climbing the corporate ladder. She finally hit rock bottom / burn out and attended Rehab in Sydney's prestigious Northern Beaches for 3 months, which gave her deep insight on her behaviours and learn how to change her life around.  Hilary's recommendations below:   South Pacific Private: Alcohol & Drug Rehab Sydney NSW   https://www.southpacificprivate.com.au/   meditation HQ https://meditationhq.com.au/community/   Co dependency  no more / The language of letting go by author Melody Beattie

TRIGGER WARNING and ANONYMOUS In this episode, Amie interviews someone, who shares her personal story of growing up in a broken home and being in a codependent and abusive relationship. She opens up about the physical and emotional abuse she endured in her relationship and the challenges of leaving. She also talks about the role of drugs, particularly ice, in her ex-husband's behaviour and the effect it had on their relationship. Despite the abuse, she stayed in the relationship, partly because of her love for her child and the hope that her partner would change. She emphasises the importance of seeking therapy and surrounding oneself with a supportive community.    If you are anyone you know needs support there are many services that can help https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/guide/domestic-and-family-violence https://aa.org.au https://www.whiteribbon.org.au/helplines/ https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/need-help/family-and-domestic-violence/      

In this episode, Clive and Amie chat to Lisa Conway. A renowned member of the Hair Industry. Lisa Conway is a Salon Professional Extraordinaire and Author of tell-all book, The Naked Salon – An Essential Guide to Time, Team and Money for Salon Owners. With genuine passion and boundless energy, she heads up The ZING Project, a business dedicated to teaching Salon Owners how to step-up and transform their businesses. We discuss Lisa's journey of sobriety and her experience with ADHD. Lisa shares how growing up in a family with a history of alcoholism influenced her relationship with alcohol. She also talks about the connection between neurodiversity and addiction, highlighting the role of dopamine in seeking external stimulation. Lisa emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's own needs, rather than relying solely on medication. The conversation touches on the challenges of ADHD, the impact on personal relationships, and the strategies Lisa has implemented to manage her symptoms. She discusses the impact of menopause, divorce, and her son's mental health struggles on her well-being. Lisa's story is relatable and inspiring, showing that it's never too late to make positive changes in life. She emphasises the need for kindness, authenticity, and self-care in navigating life's challenges.   Takeaways Growing up in a family with a history of alcoholism can influence one's relationship with alcohol. There is a connection between neurodiversity, such as ADHD, and addiction, as individuals may seek external stimulation to compensate for a lack of dopamine. Self-awareness and understanding one's own needs are crucial in managing ADHD symptoms, and medication may not be the only solution. ADHD can present challenges in personal relationships, but it can also be a superpower, providing exceptional problem-solving abilities. It is important to create strategies and systems to help manage ADHD symptoms and improve overall functioning. Taking care of oneself is crucial for overall well-being Seeking help and support is important during challenging times Hormone replacement therapy and supplements can have a positive impact on mental and physical health It's never too late to make positive changes in life Open communication and self-acceptance are key in navigating the challenges of ADHD and brain health. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be beneficial for women going through menopause. Kindness, authenticity, and self-care are essential in living a fulfilling life. Challenges and struggles can lead to personal growth and self-discovery. Focusing on the positive aspects of life and embracing imperfections can lead to a more joyful existence. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 09:22 The Impact of ADHD on Personal Relationships 14:21 The Connection Between Neurodiversity and Addiction 22:25 Understanding and Managing ADHD 25:44 Strategies for Coping with ADHD 35:32 The Impact of Menopause, Divorce, and Mental Health Struggles 45:32 Making Positive Changes in Life 49:00 Navigating ADHD and Brain Health 52:28 Life's a Donut: Embracing Imperfections