Jason Yamas: A Wild Ride Through Addiction and Redemption in the SFO Gay Community
I saw an opportunity to become a dealer within the community, and it was even less about making money and more about feeling important and feeling powerful and not wanting to admit that I was just some lowly addict.
Meet Jason Yamas, a queer writer whose life reads like a rollercoaster novel. In this gripping episode of 'The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return', Jason opens up about his descent from a college-educated documentary producer to one of San Francisco's top crystal meth dealers. His memoir, 'Tweakerworld', lays bare his journey through addiction, the chaotic world of the ParTy n’ ’Play subculture, and his struggle for self-acceptance within the Bay Area's gay community.
Jason's story is more than just about drugs and crime; it's about the human spirit's resilience and the surprising characters who helped shape his path. From his initial Adderall addiction to the frightening heights of controlling the meth market, Jason's tale is a raw and eye-opening look at the complexities of addiction. He doesn't shy away from discussing the dangerous link between fentanyl overdoses and risky sexual behavior, shedding light on issues often left in the shadows.
But it's not all doom and gloom. Jason also shares his journey to sobriety, offering hope and alternative approaches to recovery, particularly relevant to the LGBTQ+ community. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of addiction and the power of redemption.