Shane Watson: From Addiction to Advocacy
I managed to gain back my self-respect, I gained back others' trust, I started to laugh, I started to have hope again, and I brought back not only the things and the people I thought I had lost, which is forgiveness, which is mercy.
What does it take to turn two decades of substance abuse into a mission to help others? Shane Watson knows firsthand. As a Prevention Specialist and Public Information Officer for notMYkid, Shane has transformed his personal battles into powerful advocacy. In this episode of 'I Love Being Sober', hosted by Tim Westbrook, Shane opens up about his long struggle with alcohol, marijuana, and opioids, and the toll it took on his life.
He shares candid stories of wasted years and missed opportunities, but also how he clawed his way back to self-respect and trust. Shane's journey didn't end with his recovery. Instead, he found purpose in preventing others from falling into the same traps. With over 500 speaking engagements and countless media appearances under his belt, Shane uses his experiences to educate teens and support parents through the nonprofit notMYkid.
He talks about the early intervention programs he facilitates and how these initiatives are making a real difference in young lives. The conversation also touches on the broader impacts of the pandemic on addiction and mental health, offering insights into how people can cope in these challenging times. Shane and Tim discuss the therapeutic power of music and other activities in maintaining mental well-being. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of recovery, purpose, and the importance of community support.
Whether you're on your own path to sobriety, supporting a loved one, or just curious about addiction recovery, Shane's story is a testament to resilience and the power of second chances. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that goes beyond the usual narratives of addiction.