Series 2 Episode 3 Summary:

For this episode, Athene Parker talks to emPOWER’s inaugural emPOWERMENt guest speaker, Barny Wright, CEO and Partner of No.8 London.

Back in April, Barny joined us to launch our very first emPOWERMENt event, an open space for men in our industry to share their own challenges and journeys.

In this conversation, Barny opens up with striking honesty about his path through addiction, recovery, and astonishing professional success. He talks candidly about the pressures that can come with working in the advertising industry, the grief of the loss of his nephew, and his unwavering commitment to sobriety. What shines through is his ability to blend humour, vulnerability, and courage, offering hope and perspective to anyone navigating life’s tougher moments.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy!

Track 1 – Don’t You Want Me - Hooj Mix - Felix

Track 2 – Prayer - Prospa

Track 3 – White Lines - Grandmaster Flash

Track 4 – Starfish and Coffee - Prince

Track 5 – Wildfires - Sault

The emPOWER Breakfast – Barny Wright Spotify Playlist

We asked Barny what helped him stay on track and here are a few of the books that he turned to to help him get through his experience of not only addiction, but also the grief of losing his nephew.

Addiction:

The Ongoing Path by Mark Dempster

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Running (running is Barny’s ‘goto’ to maintain mental wellness and resolve):

Born to Run (McDougall book)

Grief:

A Heart That Works by Rob Delaney

We also thought these links might be helpful resources.

NA - Narcotics Anonymous

AA - Alcoholics Anonymous

Mind

Remember, If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction please source support. Unmasking and reaching out to your community for help and advice will make you feel better than you think. If someone you know is struggling and it is impacting you, the first thing you must do is support yourself. You don’t have to do this alone.

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