Episode Description: Dive deep into the life of Whitney Houston, exploring the woman behind 'The Voice' through a compassionate, modern mental health lens. From overnight sensation to troubled icon, we uncover the complex journey of a pop legend.

Join host Chula Goonewardene and the team as they sensitively explore Whitney Houston's triumphs and tribulations. We examine her story with empathy, offering a fresh perspective on celebrity mental health and addiction.

This week’s ‘One for the Road’ is M. Scott Peck ‘The Road Less Travelled’, a best selling book by one of the world’s leading psychiatrists. In it, Peck suggests ways in which facing our difficulties - and suffering through the changes - can enable us to reach a higher level of self-understanding. You can buy a copy here: https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/9781846046391?a_aid=prh 

Also, check out Whitney’s incredible and iconic rendition of ‘The Star Spangled Banner’ as mentioned in the show here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAYKTMQl7MQ 

Content Warnings: childhood trauma, including child sexual abuse, racism and colourism, homophobia, codependency, domestic violence, and of course her drug addiction, eventual overdose and drowning. 

IMPORTANT: Alcohol withdrawal happens once an individual is physically     dependent/chemically addicted and can be fatal and should only be attempted with medical guidance/assistance. The most serious form of withdrawal is called delirium tremens, or DTs. People with severe withdrawal symptoms or DTs should always have a drink if they need it while professional help is sought. If in doubt, call 999.

If you or someone you know has been affected by the themes in this episode, there are some useful organisations on Attune’s website that can be of help: www.we-are-attune.com/podcast 

Attune, as a dedicated provider of mental health and well-being services, is committed to delivering holistic support and resources. With its team of skilled professionals, Attune excels in recognising and responding to the intricate needs of people and teams in talent-based industries.

You can learn more about Attune through our website: https://www.we-are-attune.com/

Follow Attune on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/we_are_attune/#

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@weareattune 

and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/we-are-attune/ 

Empathy For The Devil is produced by Message Heard

Listen to more Message Heard shows through our website: https://messageheard.com/Follow Message Heard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/messageheard/mycompany/ and Twitter: https://x.com/messageheard?lang=en-GB 

This is a Message Heard ProductionProduced by - Emma Crampton

Executive Producer - Sandra Ferrari Edited by - Blu Posner and Ethan Judd Production Coordinator - Lizzie Hartree