As a magnetic, talented 13-year-old member of the MWAH troupe, Landon Ballard danced, acted and sang songs about the importance of staying away from drugs and asking for help. Yet he was already headed down the spiral of drug addiction - a plummet that would land him in jail and rehab multiple times.
Now he bravely shares his recovery story in middle and high schools, and he’s directing a show called This Is My Brave, in which locals take the stage and share their stories of triumph over mental illness and addiction.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode includes discussions of substance abuse, mental illness and self-harm.
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This episode was presented by Gateway Foundation. If drugs and alcohol are starting to take over your life, or the life of someone you love, it’s time to be honest and enlist some help. Gateway offers life-saving inpatient services, as well as virtual treatment. Call 877-505-HOPE to schedule a consultation, or visit gatewayfoundation.org for more information.
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Catch me on IGTV (@40000_Steps) and Facebook Live at 11 a.m. CST every Tuesday and Thursday. Join the discussion. Bring your own snacks.
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If you or someone you know would like to star on the podcast, or be interviewed on IGTV, email christopher@40000steps.com.
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