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EP13: Given Two Weeks to Live: John Lillico on Addiction, Recovery & Leadership in Construction.
01/12/2026
EP13: Given Two Weeks to Live: John Lillico on Addiction, Recovery & Leadership in Construction.
Welcome to BUILT4US PODCAST! In this powerful and frank episode of The Built4us Podcast, JT invites special guest John Lillico, European Senior Safety Manager, who shares his story publicly for the very first time. John opens up about his journey through addiction to drink and drugs, a battle that nearly cost him his life. At his lowest point, John was told by a doctor that he had just two weeks to live. What followed was a defining moment—one that forced him to confront reality and make a life-saving decision. This episode charts John’s incredible journey from that moment of crisis through recovery, accountability, and rebuilding his life, culminating in his transformation into a respected leader responsible for safety across Europe at one of the world’s leading data centre companies. His story shines a light on the hidden struggles within the construction industry, the culture around alcohol and substances, and the importance of compassion, support, and lived experience in leadership. In This Episode, We Cover: John’s early career in construction and the pressures that came with it How drink and drugs took hold—and brought him to the brink of death Being given two weeks to live, and the moment everything changed The reality of addiction in the construction industry Recovery, responsibility, and restoring his life and career Mental health, stigma, and why these conversations matter Leadership, safety, and using lived experience to protect others A message of hope for anyone currently struggling This episode is about more than safety or success—it’s about survival, recovery, and proof that change is possible, even when all seems lost. If you work in construction, health & safety, or are navigating addiction or recovery, this is a conversation that could genuinely save lives. Listen, share, and help break the silence. You never know who might need to hear this today. 🛠️ This isn’t just a podcast — it’s a community. 💪Let's build something stronger together. 👉 Follow us on: 📸 Instagram: 🎧 TikTok: ▶️ YouTube: 🎙️ Spotify / Apple Podcasts: BUILT4US Podcast Facebook: UK BASED SUPPORT: 💥If you or anyone you care about is struggling with their mental health, reach out for support: If it's an emergency- ring 999 💥If you want to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123 💥To locate mental health support in your area, search The Hub of Hope 💥Free 24/7 Emotional, Physical & Financial Wellbeing Support for Construction Workers & their Families 🛠️Produced by Tim Roe of 💪Proudly Powered by JT MOTIV INFO ON GUEST & HOST John Lillico JT Motiv
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