Episode 34: John Gillen

Episode 34: John Gillen

Imagine growing up in a family of coal miners in Glasgow, Scotland, only to find yourself on a very different path. That's the story of John Gillen, who left school early to pursue a career as a jockey. He eventually became the head trainer and manager of a prestigious thoroughbred stable in England. But life took a harsh turn when his drinking spiraled out of control, leaving him homeless on the streets of Glasgow.

In this episode of 'The Drunkalogues', hosted by Nick Morton, John shares his incredible journey from rock bottom to running a successful recovery operation in the UK and Spain. Nineteen years sober, John opens up about the physical and emotional toll of his addiction and the pivotal moment that led him to seek help. His story is not just about personal redemption but also about his dedication to understanding the science of addiction.

John spent two years studying alcoholism to grasp its biological underpinnings, and he champions alternative treatments like intravenous NAD infusions. Throughout the episode, you'll hear about the impact of addiction on John's personal and professional relationships and the crucial role of community support in his recovery. If you're looking for a story that combines resilience, education, and hope, this episode is a must-listen.