Alex Kaplan: Harnessing Vulnerability and Filmmaking to Combat Addiction
The more honest, the more real, the more authentic you are about what you believe, what you feel, the more surprised you'll be that the majority of people agree and you just need to put it on the table.
Imagine losing your father at 23 and finding solace in alcohol and cocaine. This was Alex Kaplan's reality, but his story doesn't end there. In this episode of 'Brobriety', host VanSober sits down with Alex Kaplan, a filmmaker who turned his darkest days into a mission to help others. Alex shares how his father's death led him down a path of addiction and how he found his way out through vulnerability and storytelling.
He opens up about the transformative power of being honest about one's struggles and how it can pave the way for healing. With the support of his now-wife and a progressive men's group in Philadelphia, Alex learned that vulnerability is not a weakness but a superpower. He channeled this newfound strength into 'Of Substance', a nonprofit that uses short films to break the stigma surrounding addiction.
These films are not just stories; they are tools for change, offering a mirror to those battling their demons and showing them they are not alone. Throughout the conversation, Alex emphasizes the importance of connection and community in sobriety. He believes that sharing our true selves can foster understanding and support, making recovery less isolating.
This episode is a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with addiction or mental health issues, demonstrating that openness and creativity can be powerful allies in the journey to recovery.