John Robins (Part Two)

In this deeply introspective second part of the Walking the Dog podcast, comedian John Robbins opens up about his journey through alcoholism, gambling addiction, and the profound personal transformation that followed his decision to stop drinking on November 6, 2022. He reflects on his academic past, his formative years in sixth form where he found his tribe among creative outsiders, and the early signs of addiction during a gap year marked by compulsive gambling. Robbins dissects the myth that alcoholism is simply about drinking too much, arguing instead that it’s a coping mechanism for deeper emotional pain—what he calls 'the piece of shit at the centre of the universe.' He describes how sobriety didn’t bring instant peace, but rather revealed the raw, unfiltered self he’d been numbing for years. Through therapy, 12-step work, writing his memoir *Thirst*, and embracing mindfulness, he learned to manage anxiety, self-importance, and emotional regulation without alcohol. The episode also explores how his relationship with fame evolved—from chasing validation to finding fulfillment in authenticity, connection, and creative process. Robbins shares how letting go of control led to unexpected opportunities, like landing *Taskmaster* after years of frustration, reinforcing his belief that acceptance and surrender often lead to better outcomes than striving.