S4 Ep5: The Man Beneath the Mask With Mark Dempster

To fight an illness as powerful as addiction, he knows what’s needed: strong ammo and likeminded people who have felt the pain and have seen the dark side.

Mark Dempster, published author and highly successful Harley Street practice counsellor with over 28 years of sobriety. Mark’s life started in Glasgow with an alcoholic father and a mother who worked long hours, leaving him to seek escape in alcohol, drugs, sex, fighting, and crime. His drive to become a major drug trafficker took him from Scotland, London, the Himalayas, Spain, Amsterdam, and Goa, with stints in prisons and interrogation rooms along the way. Eventually, the lifestyle left him homeless, addicted to heroin, and destitute on the streets.

At his lowest point, Mark sought help and began the long journey of recovery. With determination and support, he turned his life around and has since dedicated himself to helping others forge the same path. Today, as a highly successful counsellor, he remains a committed member of a 12-step programme, using his lived experience to inspire and guide those still struggling with addiction.

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If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are plenty of resources on the Stride Foundation website: https://stridefoundation.com/

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Find Mark online https://markdempstercounselling.com/

Find Mark’s book here https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nothing-Declare-Confessions-Unsuccessful-Smuggler/dp/0957430507