Darryl Laycock - Beyond the Bullets Surviving the Streets: From Manchester Gun Wars to Giving Back - Fighting Demons Podcast - Jon Edge & Matty Edge

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In this powerful episode of The Fighting Demons Podcast, we sit down with Darryl Laycock, a man who lived through one of the darkest chapters of Manchester's criminal underworld. From surviving over 30 assassination attempts to being a central figure in the infamous Moss Side gun wars, Darryl’s journey is as shocking as it is inspiring.
Darryl reflects on early life in Moss Side, where exposure to domestic violence and street crime set him on a path of destruction. By his teens, he was deeply involved in gang culture, leading to multiple incarcerations and surviving over 20 gunshot wounds in three separate attacks. His candid narrative sheds light on the psychological toll of his past, including PTSD, and the pivotal moments that led to his transformation.​
Darryl opens up like never before about the reality of gang violence, the deep psychological impact of street life, and the demons he’s had to face on his path to redemption. This isn’t just a story of crime—it’s a story of transformation, growth, and the urgent need to steer young people away from destruction.
🚨 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The harsh realities of growing up in 90s Manchester and being groomed into gang culture
How exposure to violence at a young age normalised chaos and led him down a destructive path
The emotional trauma of losing friends to gun crime and being constantly hunted
Life behind bars and how prison forced him to reflect on the choices he made
The power of purpose, faith, and healing in rewriting your life story
How Darryl now uses his past to educate and protect future generations
💥 “You don’t survive that many attempts on your life unless you’re supposed to be here for something bigger.”
— Darryl Laycock
🎯 Key Topics Discussed:
Early Influences: The impact of childhood trauma and societal factors that led Darryl into gang life.​
Life in Gangs: An inside look into the dynamics and dangers of gang culture in Manchester.​
Darryl’s story has been covered by BBC News, The Guardian, Vice, and Channel 4, and this interview goes even deeper. He speaks raw truths about the glamorization of violence and how mentorship, community, and faith gave him a new purpose. Now a speake

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💬 In a world full of struggle, pain, and transformation — there is always hope.🎙️ The Fighting Demons Podcast is more than just a conversation — it's a movement.

Through the raw and powerful stories shared by people, we discover that even in our darkest moments, light can still break through. These episodes aren't just about past mistakes or tragedies — they're about resilience, redemption, and the strength it takes to change your life for the better.

Hosted by brothers Jon and Matty Edge, is a compelling series that delves into personal stories of adversity, resilience, and transformation. The podcast aims to inspire change by providing a platform for individuals to share their experiences.

Every voice shared here represents someone who chose not to give up — and now, they're helping others do the same. Whether you're on your journey of healing or simply seeking perspective, this podcast is for you.

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