Bryan Hedin's Path: From Teenage Turmoil to Recovery Advocate
Recovery, it's like the first time in my life. I don't know if I can say that, but it's one of the times in my life where things became internal and real, on a genuine internal, you know, feelings of joy or hope or identity, or that could be lasting.
Bryan Hedin, the Executive Director of Renaissance Ranch, sits down with Casey Scott and Dr. Matt Woolley to share a candid look at his battle with addiction and the hard-won road to recovery. Bryan opens up about the confusion and identity struggles of his teenage years, where a fear of not amounting to anything loomed large. This anxiety found a temporary escape when he first got drunk, but it soon spiraled into daily Oxycontin abuse.
Bryan's story takes a deep dive into how he began to justify lies to himself and others, particularly after a failed mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which only deepened his resentment towards religion. Over the next decade, Bryan's substance abuse escalated, leading him to a dark place where he even contemplated suicide. Yet, amidst the chaos, he found a flicker of hope and a passion for sobriety.
He speaks openly about how Renaissance Ranch became a cornerstone in his recovery journey. Bryan emphasizes the crucial role of honesty in overcoming addiction and the importance of challenging oneself to change. He also provides valuable insights into managing addiction triggers and seeking help when needed. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of recovery, highlighting how genuine internal change can lead to lasting feelings of joy, hope, and a renewed sense of identity.
Bryan's story offers not just inspiration but practical lessons for anyone grappling with addiction or supporting a loved one through their struggles. Tune in to hear Bryan's compelling journey and discover how recovery can turn turmoil into triumph.