From Childhood Addiction to Healing Leader: Estil Wallace's Inspiring Path
Trauma really for most people out of 10s, I'm going to say I think trauma, traumatic experiences, whether it be a childhood or even trauma that you experience as an adult, is really kind of the gateway that sets people off, is the gateway that gets people to turn to another substance in order to not feel so, whether it's drugs or alcohol.
Imagine starting life with a beer in one hand and a cigarette in the other at just 8 years old. That was Estil Wallace's reality. By 16, he was a daily drinker, and at 17, he was a blackout drinker who didn't even graduate high school. Fast forward to today, and Estil is the founder of Cornerstone Healing Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. How did he turn his life around so dramatically?
In this episode of 'Escaping Rock Bottom', Brandon Lee sits down with Estil to uncover his incredible journey from teenage addict to a beacon of hope and sobriety. Estil doesn't hold back as he recounts his early struggles with addiction and how untreated trauma often serves as the gateway to such destructive behaviors. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help without shame, a message that resonates deeply in a world where stigma can often prevent people from reaching out.
Community support plays a crucial role in recovery, and Estil shares how programs like Alcoholics Anonymous were pivotal in his journey. But it's not just about his past. Estil also discusses the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought, particularly the isolation that can exacerbate addiction issues. His story serves as a powerful reminder that recovery is possible for anyone willing to seek it, offering hope to those who might feel trapped in their current circumstances.
If you're looking for a story that proves change is possible, this episode is a must-listen. Estil's candidness and Brandon's insightful questions make for an engaging and uplifting conversation that underscores the transformative power of community and support.