Chris Herren: From NBA Stardom to Sobriety
Episode Overview
Chris Herren's rise and fall in basketball due to addiction. The critical role of support systems in his recovery journey. His near-death experience and path to sobriety since 2008. The impact of Heron Talks and Heron Project on communities. The importance of time and patience in the recovery process.
I walked out of there with the realization that something's wrong. And I have a problem because for the first time in my life, these decisions are affecting something that I've worked incredibly hard for.
Chris Herren's journey is a raw and emotional tale of rising to the heights of basketball fame and falling into the depths of addiction. In this episode of Cracking Open with Molly Carroll, Chris shares his deeply personal story, from scoring over 2000 points in high school to battling severe drug addiction while playing in the NBA. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of support systems in recovery.
Chris opens up about his struggles with substance abuse, his near-death experience from an overdose, and his eventual path to sobriety since 2008. He credits his recovery to the 'Sherpas' in his life - the people who believed in him and never gave up.
You'll hear about the critical role his wife Heather played, staying by his side through his darkest times, and the profound impact of individuals like Diane Reed and Murph, who were instrumental in his journey to wellness. Now, Chris dedicates his life to helping others through Heron Talks, reaching millions with his story, and through the Heron Project, a nonprofit supporting families dealing with addiction.
His commitment to making a positive impact is further realised through Heron Wellness, which offers comprehensive programs for substance-free living. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to overcome addiction and find redemption. It's a powerful reminder that with the right support, recovery is possible. Tune in to hear Chris's inspiring story and learn about the people who helped him along the way. Are you ready to be moved by a story of struggle, hope, and love?