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Gordon Lownds didn’t try drugs until his 40s. By then, he was a celebrated Canadian entrepreneur who had built a business that sold for over $1.7 billion this year. On a business trip, he met a 27-year-old stripper, “the ultimate femme fatale,” as he called her, and what began as a fling soon turned into a relationship. What he didn’t realise was that she had been battling a serious drug addiction since her teens.

By 48, Gordon had become a high-functioning addict himself, excelling at work while living in constant fear that one mistake would expose his secret. A stint in rehab forced him to confront lifelong mental health struggles, including narcissism, and his relationship ended in a wild saga involving bikies, blackmail, and more than $300,000. His story proves that it’s never too late to get sober and start again.

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Trigger warning: This episode discusses substance abuse, suicide and sex. Ready to share your story? Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠

Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.

The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline⁠⁠⁠⁠

Creator & Host- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Julia Rangiheuea⁠⁠⁠⁠

Image & Logo- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Jasmine Rule⁠⁠⁠⁠

In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.