Danny Mangulabnan: From Hard Times to Healing Through Faith
The pain of any solution that I'm using in my life to find relief has got to become greater than the relief that that solution gives me.
Imagine being caught in a whirlwind of addiction and crime, only to find a lifeline in faith and community. That's the story of Danny Mangulabnan, who sits down with his friend of 30 years, Trevor Steinhauser, on this episode of 'Stigmatized'. Danny's journey is a rollercoaster of highs and lows, beginning with a seemingly normal childhood steeped in Christian values.
However, school proved to be a battleground for Danny, leading to expulsions and a life that seemed easier when doing wrong. High school marked the start of his deep dive into hard drugs, which eventually led him to drop out. Without the structure of school, Danny found himself gravitating towards a crowd that shared his destructive interests. This lifestyle inevitably spiraled into criminal activities, resulting in long stints behind bars. But the story doesn't end there.
In the darkest moments, Danny found solace and strength in his faith and a 12-step fellowship. Now three years clean, he’s dedicated his life to service work, helping others who are walking the path he once tread. In this candid conversation, Danny and Trevor discuss the importance of faith, the weight of shame, and how finding purpose through helping others can be a powerful catalyst for change.
This episode is not just about addiction; it's about redemption and the transformative power of faith. Whether you're grappling with similar issues or supporting someone who is, Danny's story offers a beacon of hope and a testament to the human spirit's resilience.