Michael King's Path from Addiction to Community Leadership
I've gotten individuals in recovery to engage in over calls to action, from passing legislation in Congress to a project that I feel most passionately about the communities project, which has been training individuals around the country on how to engage in organizing the very work I did at the beginning of my political career.
Ever wondered how someone can turn their personal struggles into a nationwide movement? Michael King’s story is one for the books. With a background in political campaigning, Michael spent a decade organizing and running campaigns across the US. But behind the scenes, he was battling his own demons—addictions to alcohol and gambling that began in his early 20s. Despite a family history of addiction, Michael's journey took a turn for the worse as he pursued his career in politics.
His drinking escalated, leading to the loss of his job, marriage, and even time in prison for theft. However, this isn't just a tale of downfall; it's a story of incredible resilience and transformation. In this episode of the Drug Stories Project, Michael opens up about his recovery journey. He found sobriety in his mid-20s but had to confront the harsh realities of his addictions later on.
Rather than letting his past define him, Michael channeled his experiences into something positive. He founded The Communities Project, a platform designed to unite voices across the country to combat addiction through organizing. This initiative aims to train individuals on how to engage in effective community organizing, tackling addiction head-on and erasing the stigma surrounding it. Michael’s work has inspired many in recovery to take action—from advocating for legislation to building stronger communities.
His story underscores the power of resilience, acceptance, and community support. By sharing his journey, Michael hopes to empower others to seek help and make a difference in their own lives and communities. If you're looking for a tale of struggle turned into strength, this episode is a must-listen.