Jay Barnard: From Addiction to Culinary Success
I love my ups and downs, I love my failures, I love my successes, I love my trials and tribulations. And, um, every opportunity that I've ever had to share my story is not about me, it's about helping somebody else and the people that have helped me along the way.
Ever wondered how someone can turn their life around from rock bottom? Meet Jay Barnard, a man who has done just that. In this episode of Sober Gratitudes, host Sarah Elizabeth sits down with Jay, who shares his incredible journey from the depths of addiction to becoming a successful CEO and Corporate Chef at Freshwater Cuisine in Ontario, Canada. Jay's story is anything but ordinary.
He opens up about his struggles with drug and alcohol addiction, his time in prison, and even his suicide attempts. But what stands out is his unwavering determination to change his life. Now, with over 12 years of sobriety under his belt, Jay is not only thriving in his career but also dedicating his time to service work across Canada. Whether it's speaking at The Salvation Army or giving TEDx talks, Jay is passionate about spreading hope and recovery.
Throughout their conversation, Sarah and Jay explore the role of pain in both addiction and healing. They discuss the importance of sharing personal stories, overcoming shame and guilt, and the transformative power of community support. Jay's candidness and resilience offer a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, no matter how dire the circumstances may seem. If you're looking for an inspiring story that highlights the strength of the human spirit, this episode is a must-listen.