Ben Heldfond: From Addiction to Honest Co-Parenting
In every experience in my life that I've had a hard time... I stuffed that just like I'd stuffed every other sort of negative thing in my life and thinking that it went away or pack it down deeper. But what happened with drugs and alcohol is they didn't make me feel those feelings anymore.
Ever wonder how someone can turn a life of addiction into a story of accountability and honest co-parenting? Ben Heldfond's journey is one such tale. As a young man, drugs and alcohol seemed to numb the pain of his troubled youth, but they never truly made it disappear. In this heartfelt episode of the Drug Stories Project, Ben opens up about his struggles with substance abuse and the pivotal role accountability played in his recovery.
He delves into the tension between his parents and how it shaped his early years, leading him down a path of self-destruction. However, it was through recovery that he learned to face his past head-on, embracing honesty and accountability as cornerstones of his sobriety. One of the most compelling aspects of Ben's story is his relationship with his ex-wife, Nikki DeBartolo. Together, they co-wrote 'Our Happy Divorce', a book that chronicles their journey to successful co-parenting and lasting friendship.
Ben's story isn't just about overcoming addiction; it's about applying the lessons learned in recovery to every facet of life, including the challenging dynamics of co-parenting. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking for inspiration on how to turn their life around, be present in the moment, and build meaningful relationships despite past hardships.