#30 -Zac Guildford: The Game, The Gamble, The Fall And The Redemption

Ridgey and Ringo dive into a powerful story of redemption with former All Black Zac Guildford. Once a rising star in rugby, Zac’s life took a dark turn as he battled addiction, personal loss, and the pressures of elite sport. His journey is not just about struggle—it’s about owning mistakes, confronting demons, and fighting to rebuild a life with meaning.

Zac opens up about the devastating loss of his father and how it led him to destructive coping mechanisms like alcohol and gambling. He speaks candidly about the hidden nature of his addiction, the denial that fueled it, and the rock-bottom moment that forced him to face reality. But this is not a story of defeat—this is a story of taking responsibility, making amends, and proving to himself that change is possible.

Now, Zac is committed to turning his past into something positive. Through his work with Broken Movement Trust, he’s using his experiences to help others navigate addiction and mental health challenges. He shares how giving back, self-awareness, and confronting imposter syndrome have helped him find purpose in recovery.

This conversation is about more than just mistakes—it’s about second chances and the ongoing battle to become better. Redemption is not instant; it’s a journey. And Zac’s story proves that no matter how far you fall, there is always a way forward.

Zac's charity: https://thebrokenmovement.org/