John - A Professional Drug Addict for 33 years
From Chaos to Clarity: A 33-Year Addiction, Rock Bottom & Real Recovery
What does rock bottom really look like when addiction lasts 33 years?
In this raw and deeply honest episode of Slaying Sober, host James Date sits down with John, a recovering addict who doesn’t sugarcoat anything — from gang life and bullying to jail, suicide attempts, and the brutal insanity of addiction.
John shares how addiction isn’t a character flaw — it’s an emotional response.
And how real recovery doesn’t come from shortcuts… it comes from hardcore commitment.
This is not a “feel-good” recovery story.
This is a real one.
What Makes This Episode Different
A 33-year addiction broken down honestly — no filters
Real talk on 12-step recovery, sponsors, and fellowship
Addiction explained beyond substances — behaviors, thinking, and identity
A grounded, relatable take on spirituality without labels
Recovery framed like a football game — every quarter matters
Powerful Takeaways
“Addiction is an emotional response — not a moral failure.”
“If I’m serious, I have to give it everything I’ve got.”
“Rock bottom for an addict is death.”
Recovery is about honesty, awareness, and connection
Gratitude for hard times is part of spiritual mastery
You don’t need to call it God — it’s about understanding yourself
Episode Chapters
00:00 – John’s story begins
00:57 – Childhood, bullying & belonging
04:44 – Addiction takes over
08:27 – Jail, chaos & consequences
13:51 – What rock bottom really is
18:52 – Relapse, pain & truth
29:59 – Hardcore recovery explained
35:15 – Spirituality without labels
44:18 – Words, perception & reality
55:45 – Growth, service & rebuilding life
Who This Episode Is For
Anyone struggling with addiction or relapse
People curious about 12-step programs & recovery
Listeners interested in mental health, spirituality, and personal growth
Anyone who needs hope without hype
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