Addiction Unmasked

By: Dan Martin
  • Summary

  • Traditional addiction narratives are hopelessly outdated, rarely depicting the messy reality of high-functioning addiction. Instead, they: - Characterise addiction as a defect of character - Overlook the gap between public success and private chaos - Ignore addiction's reach among high achievers (cough... recruitment) Here's what 'Addiction Unmasked' stands for: - Addiction is more than a series of 'negative' actions - Each struggle with addiction reveals a person in pain - Beyond 'recovery', there’s a journey of transformation I struggled with addiction for 7+ years while keeping: - A ‘normal’ appearance to others - A 'high-quality' lifestyle - A substantial income Yet, inside... I felt alone, lost and broken. This personal lived experience drives my passion to create a platform for the 1,000's of other 'successful' people who have also been exposed to addiction. Join me weekly as I share my own experiences, connect with experts, and tell inspiring stories from those who have overcome addiction.
    Copyright 2024 Dan Martin
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Episodes
  • Episode 8 with Shig Hayara: Recovering From Alcohol Induced £1m+ Financial Ruin
    Jul 7 2024

    Has this cost you more than money? If the answer is yes, there's a problem.

    I talked with @Shig Hayre, Director of SP Bespoke.

    He shared his story and ideas on addiction recovery.

    Key points:

    • Shig struggled with addiction himself.
    • He believes in healing the whole person.
    • We talked about problems in rehab centres.
    • Shig supports personalised treatment plans.

    Shig says education and mindset matter. He questions the traditional 12-step program.

    We also discussed the need for self-care and dealing with past pains.

    Shig's story shows the power of holistic healing.

    Access the episode now here.

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    1 hr
  • Episode 7 with Vincent Conlon: Rehab Entrepreneur
    Jun 26 2024

    9 months ago, I wrote a post titled: F**k Rehab Centres.

    It was a bold hook...


    Looking back, it was successful in creating polarisation.


    But if I'm brutally honest, it doesn't align with my core beliefs these days.


    After connecting with several leaders of rehab centres, I no longer believe they are all inherently bad.


    At the time, I didn't have the same entrepreneurial maturity I do now (a lot can change in 9 months...)


    Do I believe they're perfect? No.


    BUT... many still rely on an outdated 12-step, one-size-fits-all model.


    This is unacceptable and needs to change.


    Humans have evolved significantly since the 1930s when the model was first developed, and we must recognise that.


    However, it's unfair to tarnish the entire industry with the same brush.


    Above all else, I want to acknowledge my admiration for people like Vincent Conlon.


    He wasn't one of the 60+ keyboard warriors who felt personally attacked by my post and took to the comments section.


    Instead, he sent me a private message saying he respected me for speaking my truth, even though he disagreed with me.


    This has led to us connecting, having a long form conversation, and finding a lot of common ground in what we believe to be true.


    Behaviours like this will help us forge the most effective path through this complex and nuanced area of mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health that we call addiction.


    If I can go full existential for a moment, approaching areas of disagreement in this way will do a great deal for healing our collective trauma as a global society.


    Love, respect, and honour for one another's views.


    This is the way forward.


    PS. This is a clip from Vincent and my episode of Addiction Unmasked. You can listen to our full episode on Spotify now (It's a banger)


    Thank you Vincent. I appreciate you.


    Takeaways

    • Motivation and desire are essential for overcoming addiction.
    • There is no universal solution to addiction, and diverse approaches are necessary.
    • Traditional rehab centres may not be suitable for everyone, and alternative options like halfway houses can provide a bridge between institutional care and returning home.
    • Private medical aids in South Africa often only cover 21 days of treatment, leading to a cycle of repeated treatment and relapse.
    • Entrepreneurship can be a powerful force in recovery and creating innovative solutions in the addiction treatment field. The rehab industry often falls short by offering short-term programs that may not be sufficient for long-term recovery.
    • It is important to find the right approach to addiction treatment that suits each individual's needs and circumstances.
    • Rehab centres should focus on providing a holistic and personalised approach to address the underlying issues and support long-term recovery.
    • The 12-step program can be helpful for some, but it may not be suitable for everyone and can be rigid in its approach.
    • Rehab centres should prioritise the well-being and progress of their clients over financial considerations.
    • Building a supportive community and fostering connections with others who have similar experiences can be a powerful aspect of recovery.
    • Language and self-identification play a significant role in addiction recovery, and it is important to find empowering and non-destructive ways to define oneself.
    • The rehab industry should strive for
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    47 mins
  • Episode 6 with Jack Saxton: Operating From A Place Of Truth
    Jun 19 2024

    In this episode, I talk with Jack Sexton about his journey through addiction and recovery.

    We discuss how important it is to live truthfully and how childhood experiences affect addiction.

    Jack shares his experiences with alcohol, cocaine, and work addiction. He talks about the need for honesty and self-awareness to avoid burnout.


    The conversation explores addiction, burnout, and chasing money in the recruitment industry.


    The episode ends with a talk about the challenges of finding growth and alignment in one’s career.


    Takeaways


    • Living from a place of truth and seeking authenticity is essential in personal development and overcoming addiction.
    • Childhood experiences, such as a lack of emotional connection, can contribute to addiction later in life.
    • Substances like alcohol and drugs can provide a temporary escape from emotional pain and facilitate connection with others.
    • Work addiction, driven by the pursuit of status and identity, can lead to burnout and negative consequences.
    • Overcoming burnout requires honesty, self-awareness, and a willingness to make rational decisions about one's work situation. Money should be viewed as a vehicle to support the lifestyle we want, rather than an end goal in itself.
    • Authenticity and alignment with our true selves are crucial for finding purpose and fulfilment in our careers.
    • Addressing past traumas and resentments is essential for personal growth and overcoming addiction.
    • A strong desire to change is necessary for embarking on the journey of self-improvement and recovery.
    • Finding clarity on our goals and motivations can help us avoid burnout and make more meaningful career choices.


    Enjoy!

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    47 mins

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