Patrick Foster's Battle with Gambling Addiction

Former cricketer, Patrick Foster, opens up about his harrowing journey through gambling addiction, revealing the catastrophic impact on his career and family life.

💼 We discuss the difficulties he faced during his transition from professional athlete to life after sport.

♠ How Gambling took over his life at a vulnerable stage

⚽ The prevalence of gambling within sport by athletes who may have time and money in abundance

☎ Patrick's advice to athletes who are struggling if their sporting career has ended unexpectedlyA Huge thank-you to Patrick for talking about these issues, which ultimately could help athletes during and after their career.This episode is a raw exploration of the complexities of addiction and the path to recovery.

🔗 Patrick's full story can be read here in his book 📕 ; Might Bite: The Secret Life of a Gambling Addict

🏫 Patrick Fosters' Organisation providing educational awareness for youngsters throughout the UK : GAM-Ed

Patrick on Linkedin

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If you are experiencing feelings of distress, despair, or suicidal thoughts, Call Samaritans on (UK): 116 123 Samaritans provide a non-judgmental and confidential space for individuals to express their feelings and concerns.

If you are in the UK and are struggling with a gambling problem, there are several resources available for support.

You can contact the following organisations for help and advice:

1. National Gambling Helpline (Phone): - Phone Number: 0808 8020 133 - Availability: 24 hours a day, seven days a week

2. GamCare (Online Support): - Website: [GamCare](https://www.gamcare.org.uk/) - Live Chat: Available on their website

3. GambleAware: - Website: [GambleAware](https://www.begambleaware.org/) - Description: GambleAware is an independent charity that funds treatment, research, and education about responsible gambling. Their website provides information and resources.

4. Gamblers Anonymous (Support Groups): - Website: [Gamblers Anonymous UK](https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/) -

Description: Gamblers Anonymous provides support through fellowship and a 12-step recovery program. They have local meetings, online meetings, and forums. Remember, reaching out for help is an important step, and there are professionals and support networks available to assist you. Gambling support services are confidential, and they are there to help you make positive changes in your life.

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Join us in this insightful episode as we dive into the life and experiences of Ollie Frost, a former professional rugby player turned holistic wellness advocate. In this candid conversation, Ollie shares the highs and lows of his rugby journey, shedding light on the transformative moments that led him from the rugby field to a path of mindful living.

From his early exposure to rugby influenced by family and school to the intense world of professional play, Ollie reflects on the pressures and expectations that shaped his athletic career. Discover the impact of early expectations, the shift in enjoyment as rugby became more performance-driven, and the challenges faced in maintaining individuality within a structured environment.

Explore Ollie's unique perspective on the physical training culture in rugby, as he discusses the transition from diverse activities to a heavily conditioned gym program. Hear about the effects on his agility, the struggle with size expectations, and the lack of awareness surrounding holistic well-being in professional rugby settings.

As Ollie transitioned from professional rugby to post-career life, he found a new passion in holistic health, education, and the mechanics of the human body. Learn about his journey into the world of physiotherapy, functional medicine, and mindfulness, culminating in the creation of Mindful-Elements.

This episode is a profound exploration of Ollie Frost's evolution from a rugby player driven by metrics to a holistic wellness advocate emphasising the interconnectedness of mind and body. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on mindfulness, self-discovery, and the transformative power of embracing a holistic approach to well-being.

Connect with Ollie Frost:

Website: [Mindful Elements](https://www.mindful-elements.co.uk/)

Instagram: [@olliefrostpt](https://www.instagram.com/olliefrostpt/)

Ollie's Book List :

Matt Haig : https://amzn.to/3umbJRP

Peter Levine : https://amzn.to/3w5ivvI

Eckhart Tolle : https://amzn.to/4bqpuQ7

Joe Dispenza : https://amzn.to/42uiZYm

Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi & Steven Kotler : https://amzn.to/3uro7zY

Connect with the Show :

Instagram : @Chapters_pod

Linkedin : Chapters-podcast

Music : Goldfinch: Flight to the North (Remastered) by Axletree is licensed under a Attribution 4.0 International License.

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In this episode, we delve into the intriguing journey of athlete transition with someone who has navigated the worlds of professional sports, business, and wellness.

Today, we are joined by @AndyRamageAF a former footballer and broker turned CEO, entrepreneur, and founder of Seneca Performance and DRYY App.

We discuss Andy's recent role with the the PFA's new business school and how he's inspiring footballers to plan for their career after sport. Andy is on a mission to elevate individuals' performance in both business and life. Drawing on his extensive background as a former athlete and broker, he brings a unique perspective to the table. Among his impactful ventures is OneYearNoBeer, a global movement challenging individuals to rethink their relationship with alcohol. Building on this success,

Andy has recently introduced the Dryy alcohol-free app & community, creating positive transformations in the lives of millions.

Chapters Podcast Links :

Linkedin / https://www.linkedin.com/company/chap...

Andy's Links : / https://www.instagram.com/dryyapp/

Instagram: / https://www.instagram.com/andyramageo...

LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyramage/

Let's Do This! / https://amzn.to/3HCeMbB

BOOK : The 28 Day Alchohol- Free Challenge / https://amzn.to/3OnN31W

Undertow by Scott Buckley   / scottbuckley   Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/undertow-scott-buckley Music promoted by Audio Library    • Undertow – Scott Buckley (No Copyrigh... 

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Join us for a conversation with Jake Heenan - @BristolBearsRugby professional and co-owner of @burrabristol coffee shop. 🏉☕ 🔍

Conversation Themes:

• Juggling Act: Jake discusses the challenges of balancing a rugby career and running a successful coffee shop.

• Behind the Business: Get a glimpse into the growth, hurdles, and hands-on approach at @burrabristol.

• Discover Jake's insights on team building, positive culture, and empowering his business team.

🏉 Sports Wisdom for Business Success: Explore the strong connection between rugby and business values, teamwork, and leadership.

📚 Featured Book: Explore Jake's perspective on "The E-Myth Revisited" and how it shapes his business and leadership strategies. Order here : https://amzn.to/4b9QjYI

Follow Jake on Instagram : @jakeheenan 📌

Follow Bristol Bears: @BristolBearsRugby 📌

Follow Burrabristol on instagram - @burrabristol

👍 Like, Share, and Subscribe

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Join us in an insightful conversation with Luke Sutton, former Somerset, Lancashire, and Derbyshire wicketkeeper, as we delve into the challenges faced by athletes transitioning from the world of professional sports to new career paths. Luke shares his experiences and perspectives on the crucial need for support during this transition, emphasising the importance of finding purpose, meaning, and direction beyond the buzz of playing professional sports.

Discover the cultural differences between the team-oriented ethos of sports and the potentially more individualistic and political nature of the corporate world. Luke sheds light on the lack of structured feedback in corporate environments, leaving former athletes navigating unfamiliar terrain.

In this episode, we address the interconnected struggles of mental health and addiction, drawing on Luke's personal journey and reflections. Gain a deeper understanding of the silent assassin in sports today – gambling – and its subtle yet profound consequences on athletes' lives.

🔗 Luke Sutton :

Luke's New Book "The Death of You" - https://amzn.to/3S3MhrU

Back from the Edge by Luke Sutton - https://amzn.to/3S3MhrU

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-sutton-5498b04b

Twitter — https://twitter.com/luke_sutts

Understanding Men Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/understanding-men/id1705308732

Chapters Podcast

Youtube : @Chapterspodcast

Instagram : @chapterspodcast_

Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/company/chapters-podcast

Music Credit : Long Story by Sergey Cheremisinov (Free Music Archive) and license type (CC BY-NC)

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Will is a former professional Rugby union player who played his whole career at Saracens.

His journey began in 2005 at Saracens Academy when he was just 14. A key player in the renowned 'Class of '08,' alongside the likes of Owen Farrell & Jamie George, he contributed to the club's historic 2015/16 European & Premiership Double with 83 appearances under his belt. However, a neck-injury forced Will to retire in 2017 at the age of only 27.

Post-rugby life led him to the commercial wing of the club, engaging with clients across sectors. His focus shifted to designing and executing programs, workshops, and events geared towards elevating workplace performance.

In 2020, Will took a leap into entrepreneurship, founding 100 & First.

In our conversation, we discussed the workings of the 100 & First company and explored its impact within organisations. Additionally, we explored Will's determination for devising a solution to the billion-pound problem regarding UK prison reform and how his foundation is actively working to make a difference in this sector. Naturally, we also delved into the profound significance of rugby and the role Saracens played in shaping Will's life.

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- Coping with Traumatic Heart Surgery at 16 years of age -

We're joined by former footballer Mark O'Brien this week in the first of a two-part conversation.

Mark's story is fascinating : He swiftly broke into first team football with Derby County, only to receive the jolting news that his footballing career might be cut short just a few months after starting at the age of only 16.

However, Mark defied the odds and went on to play for another 11 years which included captaining Newport County at Wembley and scoring the goal that kept Newport in the football league back in 2017.

You can order Mark's book here : https://amzn.to/41pzVi1

🔗 Links :

Twitter / X - https://twitter.com/Chapters_pod

Instagram ; https://www.instagram.com/chapterspodcast_/

Youtube : www.youtube.com/@Chapterspodcast

Linkedin : linkedin.com/in/mrcraigwalsh

Find Mark here :

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/mobrien1992/

Twitter / X : https://twitter.com/mark_obrien92

Linkedin : linkedin.com/in/mark-o’brien-3167a4229

Credit : Music by Goldfinch: Flight to the North (Remastered) by Axletree

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Welcome to the first episode of Chapters.

My name is Craig Walsh and I’m delighted to have Ben Mercer as our first guest on the podcast.

Ben is a former Rugby union professional who played for Plymouth Albion and the Cornish Pirates in the UK before embarking on a 4 year stint playing for Stade Rouennais in France.

With an English literature degree from his uni days and an interest in writing, Ben released “Fringes” detailing the eye opening accounts of his French rugby adventure.

The success of Fringes led to being a #1 amazon best seller but more importantly it seems, opened up further professional pathways and opportunities after his rugby career came to a close. In the conversation we discussed the importance of being active on social media as early as possible during a sports career, building confidence for public speaking and discuss Ben's new book ; Endgame: A handbook for athletes navigating the end of professional sport, a book that is highly recommended for recently retired sportspeople.

🔗 Links: Twitter — https://twitter.com/bcemercer?s=20

Personal page — https://www.benmercer.me

Ben's Newsletter — https://www.benmercer.me/newsletter

Tik Tok — https://www.tiktok.com/@bcemercer?is_...

Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/bcemercer/?...

📚 Ben's books: Fringes —https://amzn.to/3T8VeCB

Our Race — https://amzn.to/41dn9mN

Endgame —https://amzn.to/48486OG

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