Oasis’ Drug Dealer Reveals All: Simon Mason

[@DodgeWoodall]

There’s 100+ more episodes on our Eventful Lives Podcast on Spotify or Apple, that aren’t on our KZbin channel. 👇 PodFollow.com/DodgeWoodall

[@jonnyrooney1029]

Met Simon up in Liverpool back in 2014 after reading his book. Without his help I wouldn't be 9 years clean of alcohol and drugs. I'm so proud to call him my friend, one of me best friends. The cleverest person I've ever met and a wonderful human being ❤

[@chrisbee487]

Well done mate 👏. From one addict to another 👏 👍

[@DodgeWoodall]

Love this Jonny and yes he’s an absolute blinder of a human 💛

[@Ian-bq7gp]

Thats so good to hear, well done, god bless you.

[@Ian-bq7gp]

Heroin users are outcasts and looked down upon but the truth is that cocaine and crack users are often pulling scams and often are more greedy and out of control but its seen as more acceptable because the stars are often drinking, snorting lines and are the in crowd. Some heroin addicts withdraw from society because of being judged according to the hypocracy and stigma of the drug even if theyve never been a scumbag and never stolen for their habit and some have often ended up not eating and spent time homelrss, out of work and one of my mates died because he lacked food and had a massive heart attack at 40 and he was such a talented guitarist. I hadnt seen him for a few years as i was clean at the time living in europe as i had to get out of the council estate with drugs everywhere. I feel very sad about it to this day. He was a gentle soul.

[@tomkinsey4844]

Am battling with alcohol atm this gives me so much inspiration

[@Jmancks]

Hi Guys, I am 9 months sobar, and have been feeling a bit disconnected recently and especially tonight with some really dangerous thinking. I didn't call anyone but listening to this has genuinly lit me up for my meeting tomorrow. You helped give me some hope back. Much appreciated.

[@HightownPirates]

Nice one Joe. Keep on keeping on 🏴‍☠️🎶

[@mattgosling2657]

@@HightownPirates mate I'm happy for you, I hope I can get my life back on track soon I've been struggling for a while rattle most days and haven't been working for a while now, when I open my eyes each morning I just think not another fuckin day. I don't have any relatives around and been feeling lower than ever recently I'm where you used to be and wasted too long mate.

[@HightownPirates]

@@mattgosling2657 Go to NA meetings.lots of them

[@Jmancks]

Get to AA/CA/NA meeting Matt, be open, go with it and watch your life transform very quickly

[@HightownPirates]

@@Jmancks Yes Joe 🎶🏴‍☠️

[@lynettejoseph5542]

Simon is my Ex neighbour what a great guy he is, although he has had these life-changing experiences, he's got a heart of Gold. I didn't know Simon's whole story before now but I can resonate without going into detail, especially the part about restoring trust I completely understand. He was always giving and always had time for me as a friend. Respect to You and BIG Love to you good man X P.S. I liked listening to Oaisis at around that time, I think it was the lyrics, anyway 1998 had my son Liam.

[@jasoncairns7906]

I’m just listening to your podcast I’ve never watched them before I relate to a lot of them and had similar same upbringing as everyone you talk to and can take something out of it. I’ve actually been through they have blown my mind away, but this one is one that as got my attention as I am suffering with addiction like everyone else started in the late 80s going raving and I still am fighting addiction it would be good to speak to Simon🙏

[@chrisbee487]

I used drugs for 15 years. Started using cocaine at 19 then at 23 starting injecting amphetamines and smoking crack as well. It's very true these interviews can help save lives. I lost my best friend to heroin in 2010. I've seen every possible scenario on drugs. I got clean in july 2020. And stayed clean since. Life is so much better now. I have my struggles. But I no longer have to use drugs ❤

[@triple_gem_shining]

Damn bro glad you're better now

[@chrisbee487]

@@triple_gem_shining thanks mate 🙏❤️

[@simonmartin3433]

Well done mate.

[@chrisbee487]

@Simon Martin thanks mate 🙏❤️

[@nigeldunne7505]

Good luck bro 💯🤓👍☘️

[@Martin-id4xp]

Brilliant interview again Dodge. This guy has a great story and seems like a top lad!

[@michaelmccann3331]

Great interview! I’ve been in recovery for 3 years now… and If it wasn’t for people like Simon, I wouldn’t of made it out of addiction. He’s a valuable spoke, in a very large wheel. And a beacon of hope to anyone who is flirting with the idea of getting well, and finding peace of mind.Simon I salute you for your sterling service you’re putting into the 12 step fellowship. Give it away to keep it. God bless.

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Michael, keep on keeping on.

[@mickyeverton]

Lovely Words, Peace From London!! 🙏🙏

[@Northerngrit86]

How have I only just discovered your podcast Dodge! What an emotional roller coaster this was. Laughed hard at at times; i also cried - at the memories this brought back of being an 11 year old boy having to witness the struggles of my 15 year old sister and her addiction to heroin - not to mention the heartache of what my parents had to endure. Glad to say she is 19 years clean and doing great. Simon, thank you so much for sharing.

[@DodgeWoodall]

Thanks Joe and welcome on board 🙏 Simon is a very special human who has seen the lot 👍🏼👍🏼

[@HightownPirates]

My pleasure 🏴‍☠️🎶❤️

[@sonsofsofa2841]

Thank you. I am going to start attending meetings and stop this stupid cycle. Seriously thank you, you did help me because I've been on the fence for a while

[@HightownPirates]

That's so good to hear mate, get off the sofa and go and find your tribe, we can help. Simon

[@garethstarkey556]

The way this starts with those Lost In The Supermarket lyrics, you definitely know it's going to be another great pod.

[@GarethJones-i2o]

what a top honest fella...true inspiration....faced his demons and won...top story!!!

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you 🏴‍☠️🎶

[@erbsta]

I was 18 years clean last month. It gets easier but I still need to hear the truth from other addicts. Simon, I've had a pretty shit day and not been the best version of myself this past year. Today I owe this days sobriety to you. One love

[@DodgeWoodall]

💛

[@HightownPirates]

You owe me nothing but your honesty and experience. Thank you for both. One love 🎶❤️🏴‍☠️

[@erbsta]

@@HightownPirates I lived your honestly and that there's more than one way to get clean. I did rehab and 12 step to get clean but left meeting after about 5 years I felt I wanted to give my time back in service and work with addicts and the most vulnerable in society. Problem is that it leaves very little time for your own recovery, I know so a physical and online meeting a week and it's really helping. I watched your interview and was having a bad day, those demons were on my shoulder and hearing your story helped keep me clean that day and grounded me. Do that I do owe to you. Addicts helping addicts. Who knows the struggle better. Big love to you

[@HightownPirates]

@@erbsta the therapeutic value of one addict helping another is without parallel

[@Ian-bq7gp]

Your band and music really surprised me at how good it is. Now is your time to shine and its so good to see you happy as a dad, a worker and staying true to yourself. So happy you Becky and your daughter are so happy. Yes money and persians dont make us happy. Its far deeper than that. I came across this tonight and its gold. Well done to this great podcast. These messages are so important and it will save lives. Yes addiction is hell and its so easy to fall into especially when you are vulnerable. I ran away from addiction travelling himalayas for several years but treking and smoking but not using and drinking but its important to soul search and be totally honest with yourself. Im so grateful to you both for this. Im 62 now, still here thanks to the lord and i prayed years ago had many years clean in a good place but have had some very hard stuff to deal with but i believe Jesus is always there even on my lowest times and i thank him for Every Day because its the hardest days where we grow the most. That thanks has helped me see how blessed i am.

[@grantknox7775]

Another cracking podcast Dodge. One of the best casters atm. Some amazing stories

[@DodgeWoodall]

Much appreciated Grant 👍🏼👍🏼

[@itsallaboutthis]

Love Simon , He helped change my life back in 2009 in City roads detox and further on through my recovery in the rooms , Genuinely great bloke and friend to many as well as a superb musician :) love ya mate respect and thanks . Hightown Pirate - Kenny M

[@roypoyner8028]

So much respect for this man . As a recovering drug addict to cocaine every day is a different day, some better than others . Inspiration is the one word to some up this man .

[@shaunattwoodOFFICIAL]

Love Simon's interview the humble way he delivers it and his life lessons in addiction

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Shaun. Hope you’re well ❤️🎶🏴‍☠️

[@thehomefront1905]

Dodge your podcasts pull me in more than all the others on youtube, I've been thinking about this and what differentiates you from the other big name podcasters out there, I believe I have the answer, its because you hardly ever talk about yourself, you kind of dismiss your self from the conversation and put all your efforts into listening and allowing your guests full rain to talk without you butting in, something that seems easy but in reality so hard to do. This was a fantastic interview by the way, no doubt this has inspired many addicts to think about their future, all the best.

[@HightownPirates]

We both think it’s been really helpful to others. The comments here seem to prove that. We’re both delighted

[@DodgeWoodall]

Lovely words and very much appreciated. Our goal was to inspire any one struggling and Simon was a wonderful guest who spoke so openly. He’s a very special person 💛

[@thehomefront1905]

@Hightown Pirates Simon I'm amazed how you managed to brake that habit and life style of drugs, I believe this interview will inspire more people than you'll ever know. Good luck with the music, I'm about to check it out.

[@thehomefront1905]

@Dodge Woodall all the best to you and family my friend.

[@HightownPirates]

@@thehomefront1905 With a lot of help from other people in recovery..that’s how it works

[@floss-frosties]

That was quite a story to hear. All the best for Simon’s music career. Man’s got a solid soul after all and he’s inspiring others, Wow. ❤ from Japan.

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Mr Floss. You can find all the Hightown Pirates music on the usual platforms ❤️🎶🏴‍☠️

[@andrewwalton1427]

Simon, you really are an example of what's possible even if you are in a terrible place. You will help so many people, and this is just the start. Good luck in the future

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you 🎶❤️🏴‍☠️

[@Mistah_E7]

The parallel worlds of these interveiws is mind blowing... to think simon left knebworth before oasis came on while another 1 of dodges guests "Rich Jones" was doing security at the show is mad.. 👏🏾👏🏾 love this podcast

[@1983jon1983]

Awesome to hear Simons story, big respect to his sister for persevering m.

[@jailen4444]

Brillant again ....Thanks Dodge

[@paulfish5074]

Dodge once again. Nails the questions that we want him to ask! Watch alot of podcasts and always find myself urging the interviewer to ask certain queations. Alot of the time they don't. Dodge does. 👏

[@DodgeWoodall]

Nice one Paul 👍🏼👍🏼

[@JH-kq3yp]

I immediately went to Spotify and gave Hightown Pirates a follow. I reckon the beginning to Welcome to Wilderness Hill is an excellent rift and reminds me of The Beatles! Brilliant song. Keep at it son 😃

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you.

[@curlysue3620]

Many chapters to our lives. We are the authors. Be kind to ourselves and others. Healing hug to all who needs one... ❤✌🏼🙏🏼

[@millso]

Wow. That was incredible, really moving . Simon is a real credit to himself. Such a humble guy and a true inspiration.

[@HightownPirates]

I struggle with humility but sometimes find it. 😎❤️🎶🏴‍☠️

[@donnajaninewilmshurst4191]

I love his honesty about everything, not just with his audience but more importantly with himself. Fascinating story. 😍

[@HightownPirates]

And it's still getting more interesting. A day at a time! Thanks for watching x

[@Milne85]

Honesty is a big part of recovery.

[@stevebaker6711]

I have a similar story. All my best friends are dea i dont want sympathy but this guy is an honest man. I've been clean 30 years but I wasted a lot of time. He's a hero to me.

[@Milne85]

Respect to you mate. Keep it going mate you ain’t missing out on fuck all trust me

[@douglaswright2143]

Everybody thinks that they're the one Everybody thinks they're stronger than everybody else They see what happens to their friends They don't believe that's how they're gonna end If you do happen to be stronger It only means you're gonna take longer to go under That's the trouble in this world The trouble in this world The trouble is... (The Only Ones) Love and respect Simon,. from Clarence Park, early shenanigans to the present day. I really hope that this touches many people.

[@MultiBthompson]

Could listen to this guy all night 🙏 Thanks for sharing your story 🙏🙏

[@Colski841]

This should be shown at schools. 👍This man is talking sense. Wish I did. I actually felt emotional watching this.

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Colin 🎶🏴‍☠️

[@penguinproductions7014]

Well said! ❤

[@kinger1975]

Fantastic interview and what an inspiration Simon is after all he’s been through and since achieved. Respect to you both Dodge, great work ❤

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you. 🎶❤️🏴‍☠️

[@TichVango]

Embarrassing to say but was like listening to my own life…. Been clean for years now and still writing songs too 😎 much respect to Simon and yourself 👌 similar age too

[@danielflannigan223]

So powerful. Definatly a podcast worth sharing.. what a journey .. crazy

[@nickearl7173]

Such a good pod. FankS for being part of my journey Simon. I remember being in the black hole and seeing you at that event. You looked content and I think you even cracked a smile lol. It actually made me puke behind the tennis courts. Tbf, it f@cked the whole day up. I couldn’t shift the, 'He's clean, I’m not, how can that idiot do it and I can’t’ (sorry, but, you know what I mean) Anyway, years later, I’m clean and so are you. There is a way out. You’re right, there is more than one way, me and you found ours. Narcotics Anonymous works. There’s no ifs or buts. 'Any addict’ can recover in NA. ANY addict. That should be enough of a push to give it a go. Here’s the stumbling block and there’s no point in hiding it. It’s not easy. It’s not something that you can try and think that you don’t have to do anything. It takes graft. Here’s the sweetener. It’s a lot less graft than supporting a raging drug habit. Give it a go. If I can do it, ANYONE can. Thanks for the pod though guys. Second time listening and I’ve posted it on the 'Recovery from Addiction and Alcoholism’ facebook page. If anyone wants a little bit of help, hit me up on FB. Here’s hoping I see you in recovery soon. It’s great to be CLEAN! 🙏🏼

[@HightownPirates]

Sending you the love from Margate my mate. See ya soon 🎼🏴‍☠️

[@Home.Barissta]

Awesome podcast! What a great guy, been through it all and come out the other end smiling, well done 👍🏻

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you

[@sassijay]

Great episode. I took a lot of drugs, not as many as Simon but still. Have calmed it right down now for a year. I saw how stupid I was and I’ve lost some druggie ‘friends’ over it. I love podcasts like this. Listening helps keep me on the straight and narrow.

[@leighherbert4325]

Just listened to this and thought Simon spoke incredibly well, really enjoyed it, next search will be his music, thanks

[@DodgeWoodall]

A wonderful human who has turned his life around massively 🙏

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you enjoy the music. 🏴‍☠️🎶

[@garnGad]

I get identification here ❤ Thanks you have been a great help to me tonight Simon I genuinely appreciate this interview coming my way tonight , It’s cathartic for me ❤

[@DARRENTRANCE]

What an episode DODGE 👌. never done hard drugs so not my usual sort of watch but had me glued from start to finish. Simon went through all the highs and low's of life on hard drugs and turned the page in life for the better. One of my mates went onto heroin we all tryd to get him clean but he was not even remotely interested in getting clean. Which was a shame as he was the life and sole of any situation always made everyone laugh would always help anyone. We couldn't believe how much he changed when he got addicted was a completely different person to the extent we couldn't trust him. After months of us all trying to help him get clean and trust me we ALL try'd to help him he moved away from our town and none of us have heard or seen him since and that was over 5 yrs ago. The more people get to see this show hopefully it might save a family and friends from going through what we went through trying to get someone off it and someone not going down that path in the first place. Hope Simon reaches his goals with his music and should consider doing a new book that could be put into schools.

[@HightownPirates]

New Hightown Pirates album out this summer, the journey continues. Thanks for watching! Simon x

[@Milne85]

I was avoiding this one due to my own addictions but I’m facing it head on which sounds ridiculous as it’s a podcast that other people have done I’ve found it hard to face for some reason but it was of such a high standard dodge, absolute diamond mate.

[@soverncomfort]

tbh Id never heard of this guy before but what an inspiration. A fascinating story. Hadnt planned on watching all the way through but it was gripping ...and he sounds a really genuinely nice guy with it

[@HightownPirates]

@daniel There's a bit more to the story on BBC2 I-player from last night, a show called Reunion Hotel

[@soverncomfort]

@@HightownPirates cheers mate I'll look it up.

[@dannyj4163]

Thankyou for your interview Simon I'm from weston super mare been a addict since I was 11 I'm now 36 in and out of N/A ROOMS/PRISON BEEN REALLY STRUGGLING LATELY JUST WANT TO SAY THANKYOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR HONESTY REALLY LIKE YOUR INTERVIEW I CAN RELATE ON SO MUCH THANKYOU AGAIN DAN 😊 P.S THANKS DODGE 😊

[@HightownPirates]

Good to hear from you Danny. I was in a meeting in WSM last week. They’re a good bunch down that way. Get yerself along to the meeting up the hill. You CAN do this. 🎶🏴‍☠️

[@chrisbee487]

Much love Danny. From one addict to another ❤

[@HightownPirates]

@@chrisbee487 Yes Chris, that's how we roll.

[@jaynp20]

This is a very very honest n real podcast not all heros wear capes! We need people like this to point kids in the right direction if they have an addictive streak 🤜🤛💙

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you 🏴‍☠️🎶😎

[@oshay333]

One of the most entertaining podcasts ive ever listened to & I digest 5 a day. Great Story & inspiring.

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Ollie.

[@hancooke3114]

Thoroughly enjoyed this thank you, what a fascinating story xx

[@tommartello996]

I had goosebumps when he talked about his sister and going through step 4 i had to read letters from my siblings in rehab but sometimes its the pain that guides you through, i hope and know that his story will help a lot of people.

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you

[@Babar4Ever]

cold turkey is no joke, massive respect to you simon!

[@leethistlethwaite4381]

When asked if I'm afraid to die my response is "Dying doesn't scare me, living does"

[@Deano_Longley]

I just love the way dodge doesnt judge,no matter whats been said theres a genuine interest to learn and want to know,and i dont think thats just for the pod,i love that cos so many ppl do judge

[@DodgeWoodall]

🙏

[@dannywilson502]

Really enjoyed this I'm sure it'll help many people out. I hope your music all works out well you've lived a very unique interesting life

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you. The music is already made, now people just need to go and listen to it. 🎶🏴‍☠️

[@scotty20040]

Two years sober from heroin, and I still have nightmares regarding my past addiction. Every morning when I wake up I must switch myself on, tell myself today is another day in which I will not use drugs, I do that every morning before I leave the house, not getting my head in the right place bfore leaving would be dangerous for me, that’s the addicts life. Please, please don’t mess with hard drugs.

[@HightownPirates]

Every day we stay clean is a victory! Stay positive my friend and well done.

[@PerryManningOfficial]

Simon is a great human being.

[@StevenLems]

Fair play i enjoyed the watch. As always love watching your podcast

[@robf1531]

This was a good one Dodge Respect to you both x

[@HightownPirates]

Thanks Rob

[@DodgeWoodall]

Nice one Rob 👍🏼👍🏼

[@nualalancaster6463]

Excellent podcast . Thankyou for sharing this .

[@stevedawson3082]

Thank you for sharing and best wishes for the future

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Steve.

[@jasonrichardson4107]

This podcast has been inspiring, I’m an addict and this gives me hope❤️

[@vincent7390]

The thing i like about you is that you ask the questions that we all want to ask...and then you listen. It makes for a great podcast, and this one in particular i enjoyed more than most. Great work, and a great guest too! 👌👍

[@DodgeWoodall]

Good man Vincent 👍🏼👍🏼

[@bringriffiths1]

1 of best podcasts I've seen,he's sound as,it takes years get over a shitty childhood,it's shortest period of life & most important,does shape who you going be as grown up

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you. I realised eventually that it’s never too late to have a happy childhood. ❤️🎶🏴‍☠️

[@bringriffiths1]

@@HightownPirates mine started at 50 lol,if had bad start you tend to long time getting to grips with life,but good that you're doing well & seem happy enough,life can be shit but it can be good as well,Im a foundling,weren't till I was 50 that met a woman I trusted but completely changed my life,gone from being complete chaos & to violent to helping people with Cancer take it easy ar kid

[@debbie2490]

ive had the same addictions as simon crack and heroine many prison sentences to stop rehab and never did just one day not even planned i said no more and because i had a grandaughter made me stop shes 18 now and been clean 15 yrs now lifes good and never looked back my

[@adamschinkel5755]

Wicked interview. Well done on your recovery.

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Adam.

[@olliethomas6134]

What an amazing story. Top bloke. Hope he succeeds with his music

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Ollie. Everyone can help me by listening to Hightown Pirates on whatever platform and sharing the songs. 🎶🏴‍☠️

[@ianlittlefear4690]

A great interview. Great advice from Simon about addiction. He’s right, not being addicted to alcohol or drugs won’t make you boring. You’ll just find something better to stimulate your mind. 😎

[@HightownPirates]

Thanks Ian. 🏴‍☠️🎶❤️

[@DodgeWoodall]

Nice one Ian and Simon is a special human 👍🏼👍🏼

[@tonyblinston6565]

Well done Simon and dodge, just for today, today you helped me remember the darkness of gear. Nice one for your clean time birthday.

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Tony. 🎶🏴‍☠️

[@ulferiksen4583]

Love the title of your book Simon. I'll give it a read. One day at the time.

[@danielcoombes79]

Iam struggling with addiction, on subies but still dabble watching this has finally made me change my thoughts and going to give NA a go.

[@HightownPirates]

Give it a go mate. What do you have to lose? Best wishes 🏴‍☠️🎶

[@danielcoombes79]

Thank you

[@mattgosling2657]

I know how you feel mate same for me, its a shitty situation to be in. Good luck with it all anyway, lifes too short.

[@CliffForsyth]

All the very best mate! You can do it!

[@MarkRoss-v4y]

The only channel I'm watching these days! 👏🏻

[@DodgeWoodall]

Thanks and glad you are enjoying 💪🏼

[@zamiadams4343]

Great interview Dodge and Simon!

[@DodgeWoodall]

Good man Zami 👍🏼👍🏼

[@Michael-hg5hr]

17 yrs go on Simon I am an addict just for today I choose not to use JFT there for the grace of God go I ❤️ really good share bro

[@jdecember2195]

Loved this podcast. What an amazing story!

[@jdecember2195]

@@HightownPirates will do!! ☺️

[@duncaninspain]

What wise and humble man-thank you

[@HightownPirates]

Thanks for watching 🎶❤️🏴‍☠️

[@duncaninspain]

@@HightownPirates Simon this is the most powerful thing I have seen in years. I have sent it to several people to watch. I think people like you should be in schools explaining to children how life is. I wish you every best on your journey and thank you so much for our brief encounter,which sir has had a profound effect on my outlook. I strive to find the eloquence and self honesty you radiate. Duncan

[@HightownPirates]

@@duncaninspain Thank you Duncan, I hope it helps someone somewhere. Simon

[@gedward3]

Awesome to watch this. Well done Simon.

[@twinkletoes2717]

Respect Mason mate thank you! Big up Dodge!

[@HightownPirates]

Back at ya. x

[@neilmaybury7452]

Best podcast I’ve ever seen, much better than James English, you let em talk 🤣🤣🤣

[@brianevans2819]

Terrific totally honest interesting interview informative content coverage and insight into a life I have never been involved in. Thank you both.

[@paddydoyle8637]

Love the Music, Love the Barnet, Love the jumper, lots of love from Dublin 🇮🇪

[@HightownPirates]

Thanks mate. Hopefully doing a Hightown Pirates gig in Dublin later this year 🎶🏴‍☠️

[@janetohagan6205]

Really enjoyed shared to some friends who are struggling maybe it might help ❤

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you Janet, that's what we hope for. Simon

[@Stu.Henney]

Blast from the past... I was in rehab with Simon back in 2004-05... If you're reading this mate... Hope you are well mate 👍

[@ChorltonandtheWheelies]

Stu Henley. Did it work out well for you? I hope so ✌😊

[@Stu.Henney]

@@ChorltonandtheWheelies thanks for asking ...more ups than downs.. still day by day the battle never ends... I'm the type of recovering addict that if I take my eye of the ball for a second or two.. I'm smoking a crack can... Or vacuuming up a Monty line of Charles etc... I can completely go with the flow without any thought for consequences of my actions. It's a real tight rope balancing act which takes intense attention to detail. Right now I'm doing very well... No court dates, not wanted and clean..cheers Thanks again... Stu

[@RobertMcQuillan-my3du]

Stopped heroin and crack a year ago and going to get help with my drinking and I'm 50 it can happen people ✌️

[@HightownPirates]

Best wishes to you mate

[@HightownPirates]

If I can, you can. Simon

[@RobertMcQuillan-my3du]

@@HightownPirates your a true inspiration as a fellow musician and music lover I salute you and your advice

[@RobertMcQuillan-my3du]

@@HightownPirates also I'm originally from Coventry and from an Irish catholic family small world brother ✌️🍀

[@keithhooper5965]

I’m looking forward to hearing this tomorrow…I bought his book somehow after hearing about it on twitter years ago ! Damn good book ..hope your well Simon ..will listen tomorrow at work ..we have dodges podcasts on in the workshop ..three of us prefer podcasts when working 👊👊

[@DodgeWoodall]

Glad to keep the 3 of you entertained at work and I think you’ll really enjoy this episode lads. Simon has certainly lived an Eventful Life and is a lovely bloke too 🙏💛

[@HightownPirates]

I'm good thank you Keith.

[@stehughes9370]

Just watched this whilst battling with myself and at that point I'm 54 and been meetings na and 7 months in and still battling and relapse got 5 just for today key fobs FFS your story so close we may have crossed paths at festivals clean for along time so I thought only takes that one fuckit moment to take you back to hell and ruin glad you conquered NA is the answer when that day comes hats off I say I'm ste and I'm an addict 🙏

[@HightownPirates]

Hi @stehughes9370 just for today, we do another day.. Simon

[@stehughes9370]

@@HightownPirates thankyou pal trying my best you explained the things that others will never understand but you nailed it for me will check your band out thanks for the inspiration and sharing your story ✌️🙏🙏

[@jonathanhenderson980]

Excellent interview

[@clintreid287]

Wow I’m glad I listened to this tonight and hope I can get through this, I’m just so tired but don’t want to throw the towel in and leave my son family and loved ones behind. Relapse after relapse I’ve lost count tbh. I had some short time recovery before like Simon mentioned but then ego came back and I lost faith in myself. Thanks dodge for giving simon the opportunity to share his story and continue to help others . Thanks guys 🙏

[@HightownPirates]

Never give up Clint, if I can, you can. Simon x

[@DodgeWoodall]

Don’t give up Clint 💛🙏

[@jshaw4757]

Clint mate I can share how I got clean wiv ya mate very easily if u really want it.. there's a leaf powder can get rid off the withdrawls n can be free mate shout me..cheers

[@clintreid287]

@@jshaw4757 yeah I’ll try anything at the moment thanks

[@garypetrie8221]

Thanks for sharing your story a great message 🙏

[@scotthands809]

Another belter...all the best to Simon 👍🏻

[@HightownPirates]

Thanks Scott.

[@90shiphophead94]

Again another great episode and a powerful one too keep up the great work dodge 👍

[@DodgeWoodall]

Good man and thanks for your support of the channel 👍🏼👍🏼

[@90shiphophead94]

@@DodgeWoodall this is now one of my favourite podcasts and I look forward to when new episodes are aired 👍

[@jack8988]

Class pod as always dodge

[@DodgeWoodall]

Glad you enjoyed it Jack 🙏

[@Ian-bq7gp]

Ive subscribed Dodge, i love what you are doing and huge respect and thanks to you for talking about this stuff thats so important and to give a voice to it so this hugely vital maybe life saving information and support can get out there to people who need it.

[@DodgeWoodall]

Thanks for your message Ian and I think it’s so important to shine a light on topics that the mainstream doesn’t. We really hope it helps inform people 🙏💛

[@moonchild66]

Awesome interveiw...love his humour reg the whole situation....im sure thst helped him...the story about hom mum was touching❤

[@HightownPirates]

Thanks ❤️🎶🏴‍☠️

[@TheGloryHole16]

I’ve been using cocaine for 25 years plus now.. I’m 48, and my head is so skewed from my addition I don’t feel human anymore.. on a plus note, I’ve made the steps toward a recovery program with a support worker, I can’t deal with this horrible disease myself, many years I thought that I could, but I’ve been so wrong. Hopefully I can start to make some recovery progress. Great guest Dodge, thank you

[@HightownPirates]

Keep on trying mate, one day at a time. Simon x

[@TheGloryHole16]

@@HightownPirates Thankyou Simon x Towards the end of the podcast you were talking about your mum, I too have a similar situation with mine as you do, I started to well up because I’m still gripped by addiction, where as your clean.. I need to be clean for my mother, and of course, myself. Your conversation with Dodge was fascinating to hear ( if that’s the correct way of putting it ) well done for being clean x

[@mattgosling2657]

Good luck x

[@jarman7765]

Another great interview with an interesting guest .. Simon’s monologue about his mum at the end .. wow 🙌

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you.

[@jarman7765]

@@HightownPirates no, thank you for an enlightening interview. I was in and around Stokey/ Hackney same time as you, I wasn’t into same stuff but saw friends succumb to hard drugs.

[@denisomahoney5464]

Dodge ,what a Geezer …quality interview .nice one 👍🏼

[@DodgeWoodall]

Glad you enjoyed Denis 👍🏼👍🏼

[@Michael-hg5hr]

The therapeutic value of one addict helping another is without parallel and to keep what we've got we need to give it away ❤️

[@HightownPirates]

You knows it. 😉❤️🎶🏴‍☠️

[@Michael-hg5hr]

@@HightownPirates Simon I have been on the bottom rung of life for so long and I struggle a lot but I'm putting one foot in front of the other atm and I had a few "kebab shop moments" I got a bit emotional when I heard that thank you for reminding me that I have people in my life I'm grateful for and how easy it would be to fall fast back into grafting meat for Tesco or washing Pods n shit like the reality of my illnesses are so similar my defects of character could easily take me back there thank you for that

[@HightownPirates]

@@Michael-hg5hr Keep coming back brother ❤️🎶🏴‍☠️

[@Michael-hg5hr]

@@HightownPirates works if you work it so work it you're worth it 😂❤️😉

[@Dixienormous696]

Massive respect to Simon!

[@HightownPirates]

Thank you. Simon x

[@Bobbibouchersmumwasright]

Another good one mate!! 🙌🏼… I’ll be skipping the T Ran one but I’ll be back straight after 😉

[@CliffForsyth]

Top podcast mate!

[@mosiemi1]

Total respect for being clean for 17 years. I unfortunately relapsed after over 20 yrs. I suffered narcissistic abuse

[@HightownPirates]

Zaheed hope you’ve managed to get clean again. 🏴‍☠️❤️

[@QQ_241]

No one ever talks about functioning users. When we talk about alcohol nobody slags off a drinker that controls it and doesn't let it get out of hand. But it is like an unspoken thing that anyone using drugs is a lost cause. Half the world has legalised weed, some countries have shooting galleries, loads of ex/police call for an evidence based drug policy, and I have been prescribed a plethora of drugs for more than half my life including all the opiates under the sun (for a long term hereditary health condition) and nobody ever says anything about that either. I've seen how fast it CAN (in)spiral (carpets) out of control for some people but others manage it - but if you say this people call it denial. Speaking for a friend!!

[@HightownPirates]

Did I once criticise drug use? I’m all for decriminalisation. I’m not anti-drugs at all. The reason we didn’t talk about ‘functional’ users is that there isn’t too much to talk about. Wherever safe-injection spaces have been set up, they have been a success. Substitute prescribing might not be my choice but it does work for many.

[@QQ_241]

@@HightownPirates I am not exactly sure who you are (are you Simon?), but I apologise if my comment has been taken out of context I didn't mean it directed at anything or anyone it was more a muse inspired by the video, I haven't even finished watching it yet my little girl is running around etc. If it's offended you I apologise and am more than happy to amend or delete it. I am in two minds about normalisation, some people get so out of hand so quick that it's easy to send the wrong message. I can see both sides from experience and don't know the real answer. But I do know there are thousands upon thousands of us that take responsibility for ourselves, keep ourselves in check, prioritise the important things like children and family etc. You are right there isn't much to talk about, but also that's kind of my point too. Peace.

[@QQ_241]

@@HightownPirates ps I could have structured my comment better, I have read it a few times and thought it's a bit crude. It doesn't really convey what I am trying to say. Later on this evening I will probably change it. But I will give you sometime to reply or whatever so I don't end up changing something after you reply to make this any worse!!

[@QQ_241]

@@HightownPirates Also and sorry to keep replying, but even you put functional inside quotation marks. It's also strange that I am not saying I have been prescribed every opiate under the sun in reference to substitute prescribing, quite the opposite, it led to heavier drug use, then they want to substitute prescribe on top of that. I just find it crazy that I can have Oramorph, Tramadol, Oxy then when you admit you use Heroin they say "hhhmmm we don't like you taking that take methadone/buprenorphine instead" I think it's fucking crazy. You can have all the morphs you like until you prescribe yourself then they don't even want to give you a paracetamol!! Our system is so broken.

[@HightownPirates]

@@QQ_241 Hiya, Simon here, yes the system is broken, yes it's a horrid gravy-train that keeps people stuck and yes 'they' don't like it when people self-medicate for obvious reasons (money) Your comments didn't offend at all. I hope you are in a happy place. x