Blu Robinson
Blu Robinson
When Life Throws You a Curveball with Michael Bugary
When Life Throws You a Curveball with Michael Bugary
When Life Throws You a Curveball with Michael Bugary
Tuesday 8th July 2025
Join Coach Blu Robinson as he talks with Michael Bugary about overcoming addiction, cancer, and finding new purpose through authenticity.
46 minutes
inspirational
challenging
hopeful
reflective
About this podcast
Author:
Blu Robinson
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Body & Mind
Family Recovery from Addiction
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Links:
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Episodes:
467 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Michael Bugary's Transformative Journey
Episode Overview
- Michael Bugary shares his journey from baseball to recovery.
- The impact of addiction and illness on personal identity.
- The healing power of therapy dogs in recovery.
- Embracing authenticity as a motivational speaker.
- The importance of taking personal responsibility.
"Drugs and alcohol are a symptom of my disease, right? Because my addict behavior began long before I had my first drink or drug and they're still with me now."
In a gripping episode of the Addict to Athlete Podcast, Coach Blu Robinson sits with Michael Bugary, a man who once dreamed of a thriving career in professional baseball. Bugary's life took unexpected turns as he faced addiction and a rare form of brain cancer. This conversation delves into the depths of his journey, highlighting the trials and triumphs he encountered along the way.
Michael Bugary grew up with a passion for baseball, a sport that became his first addiction due to the validation and attention it provided. His talent earned him a scholarship to the University of California, Berkeley, and subsequently a draft to the Boston Red Sox. However, an arm injury ended his promising career, leaving him grappling with a loss of identity and self-worth. In the aftermath, Bugary turned to drugs and alcohol, eventually falling into heroin addiction.
During this tumultuous period, Bugary was diagnosed with a medulloblastoma brain tumor, a rare condition in adults. Despite the diagnosis feeling like a cruel twist of fate, Michael now sees these challenges as consequences of his own choices. He emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in recovery and the need for continuous self-improvement. Throughout his recovery, Bugary discovered the profound impact of therapy dogs, particularly his German Shepherd, Max.
These companions have played a significant role in his healing process, offering comfort and grounding. Today, Michael Bugary channels his experiences into motivational speaking, advocating for authenticity and honesty. He finds purpose in helping others and believes that sharing his story can inspire those facing similar struggles. Bugary's journey is a testament to resilience and the power of turning one's mess into a message. Listeners are encouraged to share this episode with anyone navigating life's unpredictable challenges.
The Addict to Athlete Podcast remains a valuable resource for those seeking stories of hope and transformation.