In the first episode of 2025, Ollie and Cess invite James Gwinnett to discuss his fascinating and insightful story of overcoming depression and alcoholism – he is nearly nine years sober – after a serious rugby injury, and going on to take part in Channel 4's SAS: Who Dares Wins and run a series of ultramarathons.

He’s recently released a book – READY, SET, LIFE, available on Amazon – which recounts James’ experiences in light of his wife giving birth to a baby boy.

The hosts also catch up with friend-of-the-show Ryan, who has just managed 12 months of sobriety – and he has some surprising words of wisdom for listening.

Good luck to those who are trying Dry January. Keep going strong!

Booze News Items:

Evening Standard: I'm an alcoholic, and I know why Dry January can mask a serious alcohol addiction (https://www.msn.com/en-gb/health/other/im-an-alcoholic-and-i-know-why-dry-january-can-mask-a-serious-alcohol-addiction/ar-AA1wN7TG)

LadBible: How long it takes for brain to recover from drinking alcohol and timeline of reversing effects (https://www.ladbible.com/lifestyle/brain-recover-from-alcohol-how-long-013316-20250101)

Daily Mail: Experts reveal the little-known hack that'll make you stick to Dry January (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14239701/hack-make-stick-Dry-January.html)

BBC: Dry January: I spent a year without alcohol (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp8nmvxxxxeo)

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