Ed Edwards: The Political History of Smack and Crack

In this episode of Believe in People, playwright Ed Edwards joins us to discuss The Political History of Smack and Crack - his award-winning play exploring addiction, recovery, Thatcherism, political unrest, and Britain’s heroin epidemic.Drawing on his own experiences of addiction, prison, relapse, and long-term recovery, Ed reflects on stigma, Narcotics Anonymous, consumer culture, creativity, and the human realities behind substance use. Ed is brutally honest about relapse, including the “relapse before the relapse” signs like pulling back from meetings and turning irritation into isolation. We also explore why Narcotics Anonymous can feel like a higher power even if you are an atheist, and how belonging acts as a real-world protective factor in a consumer culture that competes for our attention.This episode explores addiction recovery, trauma, peer support, mental health, politics, and the lived experiences that shaped a generation.Links & Resources🎭 Most Wanted  Most Wanted 🎟️ The Political History of Smack and Crack The Political History of Smack and Crack📚 Book Referenced In The Episode The Politics of Heroin: CIA Complicity in the Global Drug Trade — Alfred W. McCoy The Politics of Heroin by Alfred W. McCoyClick here to text our host, Matt, directly!🎧  If this episode connected with you, please subscribe and review. It directly helps us reach more people affected by addiction, trauma and stigma. 🔗 Then share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!Browse the full archive at 👉 www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com Believe in People is a platform for lived experience, recovery insight and honest conversation. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or working on the frontline, this podcast exists to inform, challenge stigma and inspire change.If you or someone you know needs support with drugs, alcohol, housing, domestic abuse, or mental and physical wellbeing, free and confidential help is available via Change Grow Live:📩 Contact: [email protected]🎵 Music: “Jonathan Tortoise” - Christopher Tait (Belle Ghoul / Electric Six)Listen & Subscribe:Spotify | Apple Podcasts🎙️ Facilitator: Matthew Butler 🎛️ Producer: Robbie Lawson 🏢 Network: ReNew