The 10th British Podcast Awards recognized a diverse range of talent, with winners spanning from Ian Carr and Peter Crouch to Pete Wicks and Bill Nighy. However, the top honor, Podcast of the Year, was awarded to "Hold or Fold," a podcast hosted by two former prisoners, Ben and Steve, who share candid discussions about gambling addiction and its consequences.
"Hold or Fold" returned this week with new episodes, continuing its focus on honest conversations about the impact of gambling. Both hosts experienced incarceration after stealing from their employers to feed their gambling habits. Their openness and empathetic approach have garnered widespread acclaim, culminating in their dual wins for Best Factual Podcast and Podcast of the Year.
The podcast’s inaugural episode features football commentator Clive Tyldesley, who left TalkSport in 2023 over concerns about the broadcaster’s gambling affiliations and the expectation to relay betting odds during live matches. Tyldesley, who has never gambled himself, expressed unease with encouraging gambling and, after leaving the station, became involved with charities advocating for stricter gambling regulations. He spoke about the extensive damage caused by gambling addiction, including meeting families affected by betting-related harm. Tyldesley also shared anecdotes from his early career covering Liverpool FC in the 1970s, recounting the prevalence of gambling among football players.
"Hold or Fold" not only sheds light on gambling problems in society but also highlights the issue within the prison system, where around a quarter of inmates report gambling addictions. Host Ben discussed the pervasive gambling culture behind bars, where inmates engage in activities such as poker games and betting on physical challenges. The podcast provides both harrowing interviews with incarcerated individuals and practical advice to support those seeking recovery.
Ben and Steve speak openly about the personal toll their addictions took on themselves and their families, with Ben describing additional hardship stemming from lockdown-related isolation during his imprisonment. Their transition from hosts on National Prison Radio to leading figures in the podcasting world underscores their commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding gambling addiction and incarceration.
In addition to featured guests like Tyldesley, the show has included conversations with comedian John Robins and former England footballer Steve Caulker, both of whom have publicly shared their struggles with gambling. Episodes also explore gambling issues in specific communities, such as Black populations and women, as well as the psychological science behind gambling disorders.
By blending raw personal stories with advocacy and education, "Hold or Fold" has resonated strongly with audiences, offering an unflinching look at addiction and recovery. The recognition from the British Podcast Awards represents a significant milestone for Ben and Steve, marking what many consider the most meaningful achievement in their lives to date.