Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma

Believe in People is the UK’s leading podcast dedicated to addiction, recovery, lived experience storytelling, and the power of peer support in transforming lives. Produced by ReNew, the series brings honest, unfiltered conversations with people who have faced addiction, homelessness, trauma, stigma, prison, relapse and recovery and found a way forward.

Hosted by Matt Butler and produced by Robbie Lawson, each episode provides real insight into the experiences behind substance use, the roots of trauma, and the pathways into healing and long-term recovery. You will hear from public figures, frontline workers, peer mentors, musicians, parents and people with lived experience who are changing communities across the UK.

Whether you are in recovery, supporting someone, working in treatment services, or simply curious about what real recovery looks like, this podcast offers depth, truth and hope. With new episodes released regularly, Believe in People is for anyone seeking honest stories, practical learning, and a deeper understanding of how people rebuild their lives.

🎙 2025 British Podcast Award Nominee - Best Interview

🎙 2025 British Podcast Award Nominee - Best Factual

🎙 2024 British Podcast Award Winner - Best Interview

🎙 2025 Radio Academy Award Nominee - Best Speech & Entertainment

🎙 2024 Radio Academy Award Nominee - Best New Podcast

www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com

Search terms: addiction, recovery podcast UK, lived experience stories, peer support, substance misuse recovery, trauma and recovery.

Host

Matthew Butler

Matthew Butler, the host of Believe in People, has worked in the substance misuse field for over ten years. As the Service User Involvement Lead, he is dedicated to amplifying the voices of service users and tackling the stigma they face.

Matthew's experience has given him a deep understanding of the complexities of addiction, allowing him to challenge preconceived notions and share the lived experiences of those who have overcome significant challenges. His approach reflects a commitment to believing in people and supporting their potential for change, while actively combating the stigma that often hinders recovery.