********Trigger and Content Warning******* 

This episode contains discussions of alleged abuse, addiction, and trauma. it also contains strong language. Listener discretion is advised. 

If this episode raises anything for you, support services are listed in the show notes.

He doesn’t want you to know his name. But he wants you to hear his story.

In this episode, we speak to a man we’re calling X  a former schoolboy, now an adult still carrying the weight of what he says happened to him decades ago.

What begins as a story about football…
about mentorship…
about a trusted figure in a young boy’s life…

slowly unravels into something far darker.

X describes a relationship he says started with trust, encouragement, and validation — before shifting into behaviour he now understands as grooming.

At the time, he says he didn’t question it.He couldn’t.

Because this was someone in a position of power.
Someone respected.
Someone he believed was helping him.

Now, speaking from a rehab facility where he’s trying to rebuild his life, X opens up about the long-term impact the addiction, the mental health struggles, and the years of confusion, shame, and silence.

He also shares why he’s speaking now…
and what he believes others may still be holding onto.

If this episode is triggering, please pause and seek support. 

• Lifeline: 13 11 14 — https://www.lifeline.org.au

• Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 — https://kidshelpline.com.au

• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 — https://www.1800respect.org.au

If you have information that you would like to share, email us anonymously at podshape@proton.me