Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video, and thank you to Taylor Ashton Ellwood for inviting me.
In this Substack live, I described my path through life—starting from growing up in a large family in Indiana, facing addiction, and eventually finding a path to sobriety. Over the course of my 26-year career in the addiction treatment field, I have worked closely with men transitioning out of residential care and into the world, helping them navigate life with the tools they learned to stay sober and find healthier relationships.
I dove into my own story of addiction and recovery, touching on themes of self-betrayal, attachment theory, and the crucial importance of connection—both with myself and with others. I reflected on how addiction often serves as a substitute for deeper emotional needs and discuss how men, in particular, can struggle with societal pressures and internalized beliefs about masculinity.
We also explored the importance of male mentorship, the healing power of honest relationships, and how men’s work plays a pivotal role in breaking through the isolation and emotional numbness often caused by addiction.
Whether you’ve struggled with substance use or are just looking for ways to deepen your own self-awareness, this conversation offers valuable insights into the power of self-connection and community.
Topics Discussed:
My personal journey from addiction to sobriety and his work in addiction treatment
Addiction as a continuum: How does it manifest in subtle ways, and how do we define it?
The importance of attachment theory in addiction recovery
Why the opposite of addiction is connection
How societal pressures around masculinity impact men’s emotional health and relationships
The significance of healthy male mentorship and accountability in recovery
Navigating personal healing and finding meaning through men’s work
Resources Mentioned:
Robert Flores’ book: Addiction as an Attachment Disorder
Jessica Baum’s book: Anxiously Attached
Dr. Gabor Mate’s work on addiction and connection
Join the conversation: If you’re interested in exploring more about addiction, men's work, or simply want to connect, follow us and share your thoughts on this episode! Please subscribe for more discussions on self-discovery, recovery, and emotional well-being.
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