Zach Rhoads

The Social Exchange

Zach Rhoads

  • Episode 18: Aaron Ferguson: Epistemology of Addiction

Episode 18: Aaron Ferguson: Epistemology of Addiction

Wednesday 29th August 2018

Aaron Ferguson recounts his journey from cult life to harm reduction counselor, highlighting flaws in traditional recovery and the power of mindfulness.
74 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Hopeful
Thought-provoking
Engaging

About this podcast

The Social Exchange
Author:
Zach Rhoads
Overview:
Categories:
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Sobriety Toolkit
Relationships & Community
Body & Mind
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
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Aaron Ferguson: From Cult Life to Recovery Advocate

The bulk of the work that I do has to do with helping people to disabuse themselves of the addict identity and not to shape their entire experience in terms of one or two substances.
Imagine growing up in a cult, finding yourself homeless, and then training to become a Navy SEAL. This is just the beginning of Aaron Ferguson's incredible story. In this episode of 'The Social Exchange,' Aaron sits down with host Zach Rhoads to share his remarkable journey through addiction and recovery. From the dark days of living on the streets to his transformation into a harm reduction substance use counselor, Aaron's life is a testament to resilience and change.
The conversation doesn't shy away from the flaws in traditional recovery methods. Aaron and Zach discuss the importance of moving beyond the 'addict' label and embracing alternative viewpoints in addiction treatment. Aaron's insights into mindfulness and yoga as tools for recovery are particularly enlightening. His story underscores the dangers of black-and-white thinking and highlights the potential for personal growth when one remains open to new perspectives.
As Aaron puts it, 'The bulk of the work that I do has to do with helping people to disabuse themselves of the addict identity and not to shape their entire experience in terms of one or two substances'. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in addiction recovery, alternative treatment methods, or simply an inspiring tale of human endurance.