Episode #128 High Truth on Drugs on Addiction with Frank Saragosa and his Voice of Hope on Methamphtamine AddictionEpisode #128 High Truth on Drugs on Addiction with Frank Saragosa and his Voice of Hope on Methamphtamine Addiction
High Truths on Drugs and Addiction
Is there hope for severe addiction or substance use disorder? Absolutely, listen to Frank's inspiring story. Frank was a college professor in American Literature when he hit rock Botton due to addiction. He lives through skid row, homelessness, and convicted felon sitting in prison. While incarcerated he won a first place writing competition against 800 submissions. Ken tells his story and demonstrates that we should not be judged just by our lowest lows in our life. Frank Kensaku Saragosa is a San Diego based writer who writes about homelessness, addiction, criminality and incarceration. He is also a recovering crystal meth addict. He taught American Literature at Swarthmore College and Soka University of America, and worked for several years in social services in San Diego. Because of his addiction, he lived unhoused in downtown San Diego for three years, has been in and out of county jail several times, andserved two federal prison terms. He was released from Federal prison most recently in August 2022, six months ago. Work he wrote in prison won the 2022 PEN America Prison Writing Awards in two categories, Fiction and Nonfiction Essay Union Tribune Article Pen America Voices of Hope Video
1:25:59•5 Jun 2023
From Skid Row to Success: Frank Saragosa's Journey of Recovery
Episode Overview
- Frank's journey from a college professor to battling addiction, homelessness, and incarceration
- The impact of adverse childhood events and familial history of addiction
- Insights into the complexities of addiction and the challenges of recovery
- The transformative power of hope, resilience, and compassion in addressing addiction
- Frank's inspiring transformation from addiction to recovery and the importance of empathy and support
“As long as we're alive there's hope. The healthcare workers who helped me in those various emergency settings that I had to, where I was, you know, where I, where I needed help. I don't know who they thought they were helping. I don't know if they have any idea that that's, I don't know if any of them will hear this podcast and know that today I'm a different person, that I'm living differently today.”
What happens when a college professor hits rock bottom due to addiction? In this heartfelt episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', Dr. Roneet Lev sits down with Frank Saragosa, whose life story is nothing short of remarkable. Frank was once an esteemed American Literature professor, but his battle with crystal meth led him to homelessness and multiple stints in prison. While incarcerated, he didn't just survive—he thrived, winning prestigious writing awards and finding his voice amidst the chaos.
Frank's tale isn't just about hitting rock bottom; it's about clawing your way back up. His experiences on Skid Row and in federal prison offer a raw look at the realities of severe addiction and the criminal justice system. But more than that, his story is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with substance use disorders. He shows us that no matter how low you go, there's always a way back.
Frank's narrative underscores the importance of empathy, support, and the human capacity for change. Tune in to hear how he turned his life around and what he's doing now to help others on similar journeys.
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