U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count

I Used To Be...In Gay Conversion Therapy

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 3, Episode 2

Lewis Crompton | I Used To Be...In Gay Conversion Therapy

Dean James sits down with Lewis Crompton for a powerful and unflinching conversation about the hidden reality of gay conversion therapy in the UK. As a teenager, Lewis was drawn into an evangelical church with deep American roots, a place where fear was disguised as faith, and where a charismatic youth leader pushed extreme, restrictive beliefs that slowly reshaped his world. What began as community soon became control, pulling Lewis into years of internal conflict and shame.

For over a decade, he lived under the weight of teachings that told him he was broken, sinful, and in need of “fixing.” But when Lewis finally confronted the truth of his sexuality, everything changed. He began dismantling the harmful narratives he’d been conditioned to believe, reclaiming his identity piece by piece. That journey - painful, courageous, and deeply human - became the foundation of the proud, grounded, and powerful man he is today.

Trading became Lewis’s lifeline. It offered not just financial freedom, but emotional liberation - a way to step beyond the confines of the church and build a life defined by autonomy, confidence, and purpose.

Today, he lives openly and joyfully with his husband, and leads Start Trading, where he mentors people around the world through workshops, education, and strategic wealth training.

His expertise has been featured in Bloomberg, Yahoo, Entrepreneur, The Sun, The Metro, and more. And now, Lewis is on a mission far bigger than himself: to help one million families reduce financial stress and create more freedom in their lives through smart, strategic wealth management.

This episode is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the extraordinary strength it takes to rewrite your own story - no matter where it began.

Learn more about Lewis' work here...Lewis Crompton Website.

Get involved with Start Trading.

Follow Lewis Here:

Instagram

YouTube

If you are affected by any of the topics raised in this episode, or want to join the fight to ban gay conversion therapy in the UK, please use the following links:

Stonewall UK

Mind

Ban Gay Conversion Therapy - USDAW

Ban Gay Conversion Therapy - Gov.UK

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I Used To Be...A Caregiver

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 3, Episode 1

Susan Bloom | I Used To Be...A Caregiver

Equine Gestalt specialist Susan Bloom sits down with Dean James for an unfiltered and deeply human conversation about love, loss, and the extraordinary strength required to keep showing up when life keeps knocking you down.

Susan shares the raw reality of becoming a full‑time caregiver to her husband after he was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease. Walking away from her career, reshaping her entire life, and pouring every ounce of herself into his care. After years of complications and relentless health battles, Susan’s husband sadly passed away, leaving her to navigate a grief that reshaped her from the inside out.

In this conversation, Susan opens her heart even further, speaking with courage about surviving breast cancer and the ongoing journey of caring for her son, who lives with seizures. Her story is one of endurance, devotion, and the quiet heroism so many caregivers carry without recognition.

Today, Susan channels her lived experience into powerful, transformative work. Through her Equine Gestalt therapeutic programme, she supports caregivers, individuals, couples, and groups, helping them process trauma, grief, reconnect with themselves, and find healing through the profound connection between humans and horses.

Based in Oskaloosa, Kansas, Susan also works with clients remotely, extending her compassion and expertise far beyond her local community.

Discover more about Susan’s work and her mission to bring connection, healing, and synergy to those who need it most...Connections And Synergy Website.

Follow Susan here:

Facebook

Instagram

If you are affected by any of the topics raised in this episode, please use the following links:

Carers UK

Carers Trust

Embracing Carers

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I Used To Be...A Victim of Rape

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 12

Dan Cooper | I Used To Be...A Victim of Rape

More than two decades ago, at just 19 years old, Dan Cooper’s life was shattered by a devastating sexual assault at the hands of someone he knew and trusted. What followed were years of battling the hidden scars - both mental and physical - that lingered long after the attack. Eventually, Dan found the strength to report the assault for a second time, and after months of enduring the complexities of the criminal justice system, his perpetrator was finally put to justice.

In this raw, unfiltered, and unapologetic episode, Dan sits down with Dean James to share the truth behind his journey; how he fought through trauma, navigated the courts, and faced the overwhelming glare of media attention. His story is not just about survival, but about reclaiming power and finding purpose in the aftermath of pain.

Today, Dan has transformed his experience into a mission. Through social media, he amplifies his voice to reach others who may feel silenced, offering hope, insight and solidarity. Beyond his advocacy, he serves as a mental health and well-being coach and dedicates himself to protecting others as a Fire Fighter. Proof that resilience can ignite strength, and that even the darkest chapters can lead to a life of impact.

Follow Dan here:

TikTok

Instagram

Find out more about Dan's Story here:

BBC News

If you are affected by any of the topics raised in this episode, please use the following links:

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I Used To Be...Physically Dependent

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 11

Joe O'Connor | I Used To Be...Physically Dependent

At 14, Joe survived a near-fatal road accident. At 32, he fell 400 feet during SAS selection, breaking his neck and facing a prognosis of lifelong paralysis. In between, he served with distinction in the British Army, became a top-tier financial adviser in the City of London, and earned elite status as a Class 1 Army PTI and bomb disposal expert.

But Joe’s story doesn’t end with survival...it’s about reinvention. After losing everything post-injury, he rebuilt his life from the ground up. Today, he’s the founder of The Transformer Company, a six-time Times-recognized top UK coach, and a man on a mission to help 1 million veterans achieve financial and personal success.

In this powerful conversation with Dean James, Joe opens up about the mindset that helped him overcome trauma, paralysis, and personal loss. He reflects on lessons from the battlefield that apply to business, money, and everyday life. He inspires people to choose purpose after devastation, and discusses why resilience is a decision and perspective is everything when facing life’s toughest challenges.

Joe’s story is raw, real, and deeply inspiring. He turned pain into purpose - and how you can too.

Find out more about Joe's work here:

Joe Teams Success Club

The Transformer

Transformation For Veterans

Follow Joe here:

Instagram

If you are affected by any of the topics raised in this episode, please use the following links:

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I Used To Be...A Pro Athlete

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 06:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 10

Michael Bugary | I Used To Be...A Pro Athlete

Michael Bugary rose from a promising young athlete to the Major Leagues, playing baseball for the Boston Red Sox. But a brutal arm injury shattered his career - and his identity. In this raw and honest episode he speaks to Dean James about spiralling into addiction and depression, and later facing a brain tumour the size of a lacrosse ball. After surviving multiple surgeries and cancer treatments, his battle with mental health and addiction continued...until he met Lingo. His therapy dog gave him new purpose and hope. Lingo helped Michael focus on his recovery and live in the moment, accepting what he can't change, but working hard to change what he could no longer accept.

Now sober and thriving, Michael channels his journey into public speaking, inspiring audiences worldwide. His debut book, The Disease of Me, is set to release soon - a raw, powerful account of resilience, recovery, and reinvention.

Find out more here...Michael Bugary

Be the first to hear about the release of The Disease of Me...Sign Up to the Waitlist

Follow Michael:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

If you were affected by any of the themes explored in this episode:

UK Based:

USA Based:

Mental Health America

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I Used To Be...A Cop

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 9

David Booth | I Used To Be...A Cop

From the Fast Lane to a New Life. In this gripping episode, David Booth sits down with Dean James to reflect on his decades-long journey as a traffic cop in Atlanta, Georgia. A career marked by high-speed chases, close calls, and the everyday grit of keeping the roads safe. But everything changed in an instant. A catastrophic accident not only ended his time in uniform but left him fighting for his life. What follows is a story of resilience and reinvention. David opens up about the physical and emotional toll of recovery, and how he found new purpose beyond the badge. Today, he’s channelling his experience into educating the next generation of drivers and training motorcycle enthusiasts for Harley-Davidson. It’s a powerful conversation about identity, impact, and the road to rebuilding.

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I Used To Be...Hopeless

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 8

Brezz Hall | I Used To Be...Hopeless

In this raw and powerful episode, Brezz Hall opens up to Dean James about his lifelong battle with addiction, shaped by deep trauma and a family history of substance abuse. Gripped from a young age, Brezz hit rock bottom, but he didn’t stay there. He broke the cycle, got clean, and now dedicates his life to helping others do the same as a peer support worker. Living so long with no hope, Brezz now has hope and purpose.

Beyond recovery, Brezz is sparking real conversations through his apparel brand, 4th Dimension Apparel, where fashion meets purpose. A portion of every sale goes to organisations helping people get and stay sober.

This is more than a comeback. It’s a movement.

Find out more about Brezz here...Brezz Hall

Explore Brezz's Apparel Collection here...4th Dimension Apparel

If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, please seek professional, medical help/advice. The links below are there to help you:

UK Based:

USA Based:

Mental Health America

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I Used To Be...A Woman

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 7

Kane Howard | I Used To Be...A Woman

In this raw and powerful episode, Kane Howard sits down with Dean James to share his unfiltered journey of transitioning from female to male. From emotional upheaval to financial strain, Kane opens up about the realities of transitioning in the USA and what it means to be a Trans man in today's age. But this isn’t just a story of struggle—it’s one of triumph. Now living as his true, authentic self, Kane has reclaimed his pride, redefined his purpose, and reignited his creativity. He’s written a book, re-educated himself, and is channelling his lived experience into bold new ventures. This is more than a transition—it’s a transformation.

Find out more about Kane's books here: Kane Jesse Howard

And follow Craig on:

Instagram

Facebook

TikTok

If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, please seek professional, medical help/advice. The links below are there to help you:

UK Based:

Trans Directory

Good Law Project

Terrence Higgins Trust

USA Based:

Trans Directory

Trans Lifeline

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I Used To Be...A Soldier at War

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 6

Craig Maddern | I Used To Be...A Soldier at War

Craig Maddern spent 15 years in the British Army, serving in global conflict zones including Afghanistan. But the battles didn’t end when he left the front lines. In this gripping episode, Craig opens up to Dean James about the physical toll, the mental scars, and the fight to reclaim his life after a bipolar diagnosis, deep depression and PTSD. Now a best-selling author and life coach for high-stress dads, Craig shares how he turned breakdowns into breakthroughs—and why vulnerability, communication, and purpose are the new pillars of strength for modern men. Raw, real, and deeply inspiring.

Find out about the wonderful work Craig is doing here: CraigMaddernCoaching

Get Craig's Best-Seller here: How I Went From Stress and Hospital Beds, to Enjoying My Life

And follow Craig on:

Instagram

Facebook

If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, please seek professional, medical help/advice. The links below are there to help you:

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I Used To Be...Psychotic

Wed, 28 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 5

Anthony Palacin| I Used To Be...Psychotic

Anthony Palacin joins Dean James for a fearless conversation about surviving a psychotic episode and being sectioned in a psychiatric ward. With raw honesty, Anthony unpacks the trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles that once consumed him—and the radical healing journey that followed. From confronting deep-rooted pain to breaking destructive patterns, Anthony shares how he rewired his life, reduced his reliance on medication, and discovered the power of flow-states. Now a coach helping others unlock clarity, resilience, and productivity, Anthony’s story is a masterclass in transformation, self-awareness, and the courage to rewrite your narrative.

Find out about the wonderful work Anthony is doing on his website: https://www.palacin.co.uk/

And follow Anthony on:

Instagram

Facebook

If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, please seek professional, medical help/advice. The links below are there to help you:

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I Used To Be...On The Sidelines

Wed, 14 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 4

Muzna Amin | I Used To Be...On The Sidelines

Muzna Amin went from putting everyone else first to finally showing up for herself. In this energizing episode, she tells Dean James how she transformed from someone who couldn’t run 5K into a marathon finisher, a mountain trekker across North Pakistan, and now a triathlon trainee. Muzna’s story is one of reclaiming identity through movement, resilience, and radical self-prioritization. Health and fitness aren’t just goals—they’re her way of life. Now, she’s using her journey to inspire others to break limits, build habits, and step into their own power.

Follow Muzna on Instagram or YouTube.

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I Used To Be...The Walking Dead

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 3

Jay Hall | I Used To Be...The Walking Dead

Jay Hall lived with a life-threatening condition for eight years without knowing it. By the time doctors diagnosed him, they said he shouldn’t have survived. At the same time, Jay was running a booming business that grew too fast—and the stress nearly broke him. In this gripping episode, Jay opens up to Dean James about hitting rock bottom, walking away from the life he built, and choosing joy over burnout. Now fully immersed in writing, podcasting, and orchestrating one of Canada’s biggest Halloween events, Jay shares how he came back to life—literally and creatively. His debut novel The Last First Date is just the beginning and is available now here: "The Last First Date".

Find out more about Jay's books, podcast and ventures by Clicking Here.

Have look at Jay's Halloween Event in Winnipeg: Fear Wpg

Follow Jay on Instagram or TikTok.

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I Used To Be...In An Abusive Relationship

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 2

Maria Roney | I Used To Be...In An Abusive Relationship

For over 20 years, Maria Roney lived in the shadows of an abusive marriage. In this deeply moving episode, she opens up to Dean James about the trauma, the PTSD, and the long road to healing. Today, Maria lives by the beach, surrounded by peace, love, and purpose—doing what she was always meant to do. As a Healer, Intuitive Guide, and Teacher, she now helps women transmute pain into power and awaken their divine feminine energy. Her story is one of survival, transformation, and radical self-love. If she can rise, so can you.

Maria is offering a Freebie to all U2BDC listeners! Click Below to claim yours...

Unlock Happiness - Maria Roney

Follow Maria:

Facebook

Instagram

If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, and are in need of further help & support, please see the links below:

Books:

Too Good To Leave, Too Bad To Stay, by Mira Kirshenbaum

Broken To Brilliant Book Series

Domestic Abuse: UK Charities

Support for Male Victims

Australian Charities

Don't forget to join the conversation...

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I Used To Be...A Tradie

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 1

Daniel Dow | I Used To Be...A Tradie

From laying floors to leaping from them, Daniel Dow’s journey is nothing short of a blockbuster. In this high-octane episode, Dean James sits down with the man who swapped his toolbelt for a stunt rig—and now shares screen time with Hollywood legends like Tom Cruise, Bruce Willis, Benedict Cumberbatch, Woody Harrelson, and Pierce Brosnan. Daniel opens up about the grind behind the glamour: the relentless training, the fearless mindset, and the unexpected mentorship that launched him into the world of elite stunt performance. If you’ve ever dreamed of flipping your life script, this episode proves it’s possible—with guts, grind, and a touch of cinematic magic.

To follow Daniel's stunt experiences, Click Here.

To follow Daniel's mammoth property development project, Click Here.

To see what projects Daniel's been a part of, Click Here.

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I Used To Be...A Mummy's Boy

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 11

Ryan Curtis | I Used To Be...A Mummy's Boy

When Ryan Curtis lost his beloved mum Ann to cancer, his world shattered. In this deeply moving episode, Ryan opens up to Dean James about the extraordinary bond they shared—the laughter, the love, and the quiet moments that made her his everything. Diagnosed and given just six months to live, Ann’s final chapter was devastating, yet filled with grace. Ryan shares the raw truth of navigating her end-of-life phase, the heartbreak of saying goodbye, and the daily reality of living without her physical presence. But he hasn’t let go—he’s carrying her spirit forward, proudly continuing to be a Mummy’s Boy in every way that matters. This is a story of grief, resilience, and the unbreakable thread between a mother and son.

If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, and are in need of further help & support, please see the links below:

Sue Ryder - Grief Support

Cruse Bereavement Care

Samaritans

Cancer Research - Coping with Cancer

Mind - Support and Self Care for Bereavement

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I Used To Be...A Dancer

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 10

Colin Ross Waterson | I Used To Be...A Dancer

Colin Ross Waterson pirouetted his way into history as one of the original male swans in Matthew Bourne’s legendary Swan Lake—a groundbreaking production that redefined dance theatre. In this exhilarating episode, Colin shares his journey from a bold 16-year-old moving to London to train, to dancing on some of the world’s most iconic stages. But the spotlight didn’t fade—it shifted. Now a full-time composer with a catalogue of sonic bangers and musicals in the works, Colin reveals how his dancer’s soul still drives every beat, every score, every creative leap. From pliés to power chords, this is a story of reinvention, rhythm, and relentless passion.

Follow Colin and listen to his projects here:

Colin's Website

If you are a dancer thinking of changing career, get support here:

Dancer's Career Development

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I Used To Be...A Stay At Home Mum

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 06:00:58 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 9

Jill Kaufman | I Used To Be...A Stay At Home Mum

For nine years, Jill Kaufman poured everything into raising her three children. But behind the scenes, she was quietly losing herself—her identity, her joy, her spark. In this powerful episode, Jill opens up to Dean James about the emotional toll of motherhood, the pain of a difficult divorce, and the courageous decision to rebuild her life from the ground up. From re-training to reimagining her future, Jill is now a qualified therapist, divorce coach, parenting expert, author, and more—using her lived experience to guide others through life’s toughest transitions. Her story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of reclaiming your voice.

Jill's Website

Separation and Divorce Community

8 Free Guidelines for Separation and Divorce

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I Used To Be...Paralysed

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 06:00:19 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 8

Reese Sabatini-Blake | I Used To Be...Paralysed

Reese Sabatini-Blake went in for brain surgery to reduce her seizures. She woke up paralysed. In this extraordinary episode, Reese shares with Dean James the terrifying moment she learned she’d had a stroke on the operating table—and was told she’d never walk unaided again. But Reese refused to accept that fate. Armed with fierce determination and a deep understanding of neuroplasticity, she rewired her brain and reclaimed 99% of her movement. Now a best-selling author and holistic mental health professional, Reese uses her story of survival and science to help others rise from adversity and unlock their full potential. This is not just recovery—it’s reinvention.

To find out more about Reese's work Click Here

To order Reese's books on recovering from hemiplegia Click Here

For Reese's book outlining her methods of practices as a mental health practitioner Click Here

If you need information or support about any of the themes explored in this episode, please follow the links below:

What is Hemiplegia

The Brain Charity

Living with Hemiplegia

What is Neuroplasticity

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I Used To Be...A Lawyer

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 06:00:13 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 7

Ange de Lumiere | I Used To Be...A Lawyer

Ange de Lumiere spent years in the courtroom, building a life around logic, structure, and legal precision. But when she changed careers later in life, she was forced to confront just how deeply she’d identified with being a lawyer—and how hard it was to let go. In this soul-stirring episode, Ange opens up to Dean James about the emotional tug-of-war between old identity and new purpose, and how she found a way to honour both. Now thriving in her new path, Ange has woven the wisdom of her legal past into a life of balance, intuition, and transformation. This is a story of reinvention, self-discovery, and the courage to evolve.

If you need information or support about any of the themes explored in this episode, please follow the links below:

Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!

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I Used To Be...A People Pleaser

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 06:00:59 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 6

Amir Sardari | I Used To Be...A People Pleaser

Amir Sardari spent years saying “yes” when he meant “no,” trapped in a cycle of approval-seeking that led to toxic relationships and emotional burnout. In this eye-opening episode, Amir joins Dean James to unpack the hidden cost of people pleasing—and the powerful journey of reclaiming his voice. With raw honesty, he shares how he unlearned the habits that kept him small, and re-learned how to live with authenticity, boundaries, and self-respect. If you’ve ever felt like you were living for everyone but yourself, Amir’s story is your wake-up call.

If you need information or support about any of the themes explored in this episode, please follow the links below:

Alopecia Areata

People Pleasing Behaviour

Changing People Pleasing Behaviours

Mindfulness

Cognitive Dissonance

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I Used To Be...Obese

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 05:00:23 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 5

Chavier Lowe | I Used To Be...Obese

Chavier Lowe once tipped the scales at over 100kg, trapped in a body that no longer reflected the life he wanted to live. In this powerful episode, he opens up to Dean James about the moment he realised his health had spiralled out of control—and the fire that sparked his epic transformation. From battling self-doubt to building unstoppable momentum, Chavier shares the mindset shifts, emotional hurdles, and practical strategies that helped him reclaim his body, his confidence, and his life. Now fighting fit and full of purpose, he’s here to help you do the same. This isn’t just about weight loss—it’s about taking your power back.

Here are some links which may able to provide help and support if you or someone you know is going through some of the issues explored in this episode.

NHS Lose Weight

Coach Greg - mentioned by Chavier

Sean Fitzness - mentioned by Chavier

PLEASE REMEMBER TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVISE TO SUPPORT YOUR WEIGHT LOSS AND HEALTH JOURNEY!

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I Used To Be...An Alcoholic

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 05:00:49 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 4

Paul Whittaker | I Used To Be...an Alcoholic

Paul Whittaker’s descent into alcohol dependency was slow, silent, and devastating. What began as a mild habit spiralled into a life-threatening addiction, dragging him through some of his darkest moments. In this brutally honest episode, Paul sits down with Dean James to share his full-circle journey—from the chaos of abuse, addiction, and suicidal thoughts to the clarity of sobriety, healing, and peace. Now living a happy, healthy, and content sober life, Paul’s story is a testament to the power of transformation and the courage it takes to face your demons head-on. Warning: contains strong language and sensitive themes.

Here are some links to organisations who may be able to provide support if you or someone you know is going through some of the issues explored in this episode:

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I Used To be...Straight

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 05:00:45 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 3

Kimberley Maynard | I Used To Be...Straight

Kimberley Maynard lived the life she thought she was supposed to—marriage, children, grandchildren. But beneath it all, a quiet truth was waiting to be heard. In this refreshingly honest and deeply inspiring episode, Kimberley sits down with Dean James to share her journey of coming out later in life, embracing her sexual identity, and stepping into a loving, joyful same-sex relationship. With unapologetic clarity, she reflects on the courage it took to live authentically—and the freedom that followed. This is the story of a mother, a grandmother, and a woman who chose truth over tradition, and found happiness on her own terms.

Follow Kimberley's latest project here...On The Couch With Kim

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I Used To Be...A Writer | Pilot

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 05:00:28 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 2: The Pilot

Dean James | I Used To Be...A Writer

For Liam Hobbs, writing wasn’t just a passion—it was his entire identity. But when his dream of publishing a novel began to unravel, so did his mental and emotional health. In this raw and revealing episode, Liam opens up to Dean James about the crushing weight of creative ambition, the heartbreak of perceived failure, and the extreme decision to walk away from the one thing he thought defined him. What happens when your dream becomes your undoing? Liam’s story is a powerful reflection on identity, healing, and the space between letting go and starting again. He used to be a writer...but what is he now?

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I Used To Be...A Lot of Things

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 05:00:38 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 1

Dean James | I Used To Be...A Lot of Things

In this powerful opening episode, Dean James flips the mic on himself. Before diving into the stories of transformation, reinvention, and resilience from others, Dean shares his own journey—how life’s twists and turns led him to podcasting, and why he’s so passionate about giving voice to people who’ve lived through change. From personal struggles to professional pivots, Dean opens up about what drives him, what listeners can expect, and why this podcast is more than just conversation—it’s connection, catharsis, and community. If you’ve ever felt like you’ve lived many lives in one, this is your home.

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If you found any of the themes explored in this episode difficult, please take a look at the Websites below for support:

Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen

Home - Mind

Sue Ryder | Because no one should face death or grief alone

Home - Cruse Bereavement Support

Home – The Good Grief Trust

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Trailer & Introduction

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 05:00:50 GMT

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count - Podcast Trailer & Introduction

‘Used to Be’s’ do indeed count! “I used to be…” refers to a past human state, condition identity or experience. Understanding the importance of what or who someone ‘used to be’ can provide valuable insight into one’s life journey and experiences.

Dean talks to his guests, revealing the most intriguing, interesting and enthralling stories of past experiences, successes, failures and life’s lessons as we reflect on who or what one ‘used to be’.

We’re not dwelling on the past in a negative, stagnant way. We are giving it it’s proper time, power and reflection, so we can understand the impact it has had on who we are today!

WEBSITE: www.u2bdc.com

SOCIALS: @U2BDC

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

I used to be a Professional Dancer.

I used to be an Alcoholic.

I used to be Straight.

I used to be Obese.

I used to be a Cleaner.

I used to be in a toxic relationship.

Our Used To Be’s really do count!

This is not about living in the past, being stagnated or not moving on. Quite the opposite…this is about discovering stories from incredible people who truly have moved on.

This is about giving your ‘used to be’ it’s time, respect and reflection, in order to understand the impact it’s had on you today.

You see somebody’s past identity, state, role, condition; inevitably has a direct impact on who that person is today. And sometimes we should look back, reflect on our ‘used to be’ and take stock of just how far we’ve come.

I’ll be talking to people who are successful today in their own right, but delving into their compelling stories of the past.

A multi-millionaire property developer might have started off by cleaning the very apartments they now own?

A successful youth worker may have been previously incarcerated. Reflecting on their experience of the prison system and now using that experience to redirect young people at risk of offending.

A mother and grandmother who is now in a loving, supportive same-sex relationship. She was previously living a hetero-normative life, but can now reflect on how far she has come now she is living her truth.

A professional dancer’s lifespan, (just like an athlete) can be fairly short. So, what does one do when their performing career comes to an end? Where does all of that life-long training go?

Join me, Dean James as I uncover incredible stories of people’s past. We’ll be discussing a person’s past state, identity, role or condition, and we’ll be reflecting on how that ‘used to be’ really does count towards who that person is today! This is a podcast that celebrates change, transformation and a person’s natural evolution through life.

Who knows, it might even spur you to reflect on your own ‘used to be’ and celebrate how far you’ve come. After all, today’s ‘I am’, is only possible because of yesterday’s ‘used to be’, and Used To Be’s Do Count.

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