21. My Story: Clarke Carlisle

We’re back with Series 5 of Hold or Fold - The podcast that explores gambling harm through the lens of the Criminal Justice System.

In this episode, we're joined by Clarke Carlisle, former Premier League footballer, ex-PFA Chair, and mental health advocate. This is a raw and moving discussion about Clarke's journey through football, gambling, depression and how he rebuilt his life after hitting rock bottom.

In This Episode

•Clarke opens up about his football career and the pressure to impress both on and off the pitch.

•How his gambling began, escalated, and eventually spiralled out of control.

•The moment everything came to a head and what helped him find a way back.

•Life after football: Clarke’s transition from the pitch to a new purpose at Gordon Moody, supporting others facing gambling harm.

•A heartfelt conversation about identity, recovery, and hope, proving that no matter how deep the hole, it’s never too late to climb out.

Content Warning & Support

This episode contains discussion of suicide, depression and gambling harm.

If you’re struggling or need someone to talk to, please reach out:

Samaritans (UK & ROI) – Free, 24/7

Call 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.

You are not alone. Help and hope are always available

USEFUL LINKS:

• Samaritans
• Gordon Moody
• Gambler's Anonymous
• Reframe Coaching
• Gambling Harm UK
• Breakeven
• Andy's Man Club
• Mind

TELL US WHAT YOU THINK BY FILLING OUT THIS QUICK SURVEY - THANKS SO MUCH

Call the National Gambling helpline, for free, on 0808 8020 133

If you would like to get in touch with Hold or Fold and ask us a question, suggest a topic or start a conversation, you can E-mail us at...

📧: [e-mail]

💬 DM us: @holdorfoldpod on Instagram & Twitter (X) 

✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF

This episode is hosted by...

Ben Jones & Steve Girling

You can find out more about the work of the 'Prison Radio Association' and 'National Prison Radio' here:

https://prison.radio/

 

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