Shane Runion: From Classroom to Concert Stage and Battling Opioid Addiction
I think that's the only thing I would encourage everybody is to live in Today, be happy with it, focus on your relationships, uh, both with people around you and your spirituality, and, and uh, take the time to serve the people around you, cause, man, it does as much for you as it does for them.
How does a history teacher from a small town become a CMA award-winning artist and a beacon of hope in the fight against opioid addiction? In this episode of the Cover2 Resources podcast, Greg McNeil sits down with Shane Runion to uncover his remarkable journey. Shane hails from Portsmouth, Ohio, a community hit hard by the opioid crisis. Initially, he was an 8th-grade history teacher with a passion for music.
But everything changed when he recorded a music video for his song 'I'm Proud of Where I'm From.' Aimed at lifting local spirits, the video went viral, catapulting Shane into the spotlight and opening doors he had only dreamed of. This newfound fame allowed Shane to leverage his platform for good. He played a pivotal role in securing a multi-million dollar grant to combat opioid addiction in his community. But his efforts didn't stop there.
Shane also joined forces with the Drug Free Clubs of America (DFCA), turning a single concert into a tour across 38 school districts. Through his music and advocacy, Shane emphasizes the importance of community support, spirituality, and relationships in overcoming addiction. His story is not just about personal success but about making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by addiction.
Tune in to hear Shane's inspiring tale and listen to his latest hit 'Tattoos.' Whether you're struggling with addiction, supporting someone who is, or simply looking for an uplifting story, this episode offers valuable insights and hope.