This Is Powerful With Paul Sculfor6 Nov 2025

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.

Please let us know your thoughts on our listener feedback form: https://forms.gle/AFptgi3mMJKTZdYg8

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

Watch all our episodes on YouTube @thisispowerfulwithpaulsculfor

Follow us on social media for more insights, behind-the-scenes moments, and community discussions. Share your thoughts and connect with us @this_ispowerful on Instagram and YouTube. We’d love to hear from you!

Find Paul on Instagram @paulsculfor

Find Mark online https://markdempstercounselling.com/

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

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