Charlie Smith, Heather Murdock, Chaz St. John Nenneker
chazsaintjohn@icloud.com (Ryan Leaf, Charlie Smith, Chaz Nenneker, Heather Murdock)
OvercomeOutloud Ep.59 Ryan Leaf
OvercomeOutloud Ep.59 Ryan Leaf
OvercomeOutloud Ep.59 Ryan Leaf
Wednesday 16th March 2022
Ryan Leaf discusses overcoming addiction, NFL pressures, and finding purpose after prison on 'OvercomeOutloud'.
Explicit
77 minutes
Inspiring
Empowering
Informative
Hopeful
Encouraging
About this podcast
Author:
Charlie Smith, Heather Murdock, Chaz St. John Nenneker
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Success Stories
Body & Mind
Navigating Challenges in Recovery
Entrepreneurship for Personal Growth
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Episodes:
59 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Ryan Leaf: Rising Above Addiction and NFL Pressures
I know I'm flawed, and that's okay, and it also allows me to be in the public eye once again, because it's something I didn't think I was going to do when I got out of prison, but be in the public eye, be sober and have all that wreckage behind me for ammunition from other people and be okay with it, because I'm self-deprecating about it.
What happens when the pressures of being an NFL star collide with personal demons? Ryan Leaf, former quarterback and current program ambassador for Transcend Recovery Community, knows this story all too well. In this episode of 'OvercomeOutloud', Ryan sits down with Charlie Smith to recount his tumultuous journey through professional football, addiction, and eventual redemption.
Starting as a standout player for the Washington State Cougars, Ryan was a Heisman Trophy finalist and the second overall pick in the 1998 NFL Draft. But his career took a sharp turn when a viral video of him arguing with a reporter marked the beginning of his public struggles. Ryan candidly discusses the immense pressure he faced as a top draft pick and how it led to a spiral of prescription drug abuse and legal troubles.
His honesty about hitting rock bottom, including serving time in prison, is both raw and inspiring. One of the most compelling parts of Ryan's story is his turning point—finding purpose in helping fellow inmates and embracing the power of gratitude and self-acceptance. He emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, not just from others but from oneself, as a crucial step in recovery.
Whether you're a sports fan or someone grappling with addiction, Ryan's story offers valuable insights into overcoming life's toughest battles. Tune in to hear how he transformed his life and continues to inspire others on their paths to recovery.