Joe Schrank and Amy Dresner
Joe Schrank and Amy Dresner
Patrick O’ Neil, former bank robber, ex-junkie and author of “Gun, Needle, Spoon”.
Patrick O’ Neil, former bank robber, ex-junkie and author of “Gun, Needle, Spoon”.
Patrick O’ Neil, former bank robber, ex-junkie and author of “Gun, Needle, Spoon”.
Tuesday 4th August 2020
Join Joe Schrank and Amy Dresner as they talk to Patrick O' Neil about his journey from addiction and crime to recovery and advocacy. Learn about prison reform and harm reduction.
Explicit
61 minutes
Informative
Thought-provoking
Raw
Engaging
Motivational
About this podcast
Author:
Joe Schrank and Amy Dresner
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Categories:
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Recovery Reimagined
Family Recovery from Addiction
Creative Recovery Journeys
Financial Health in Recovery
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Get the buttons here!Patrick O’ Neil: From Addiction and Crime to Redemption and Advocacy
I don't think that people for nonviolent drug offenses should be in prison. And I don't think that for one bad move you should be fucking punished your whole life, especially for something like addiction, which we're finding is trauma-based and biology-based, and we're saying, oh, it's a disease and blah, blah, blah.
Ever wondered what it takes to turn a life of crime and addiction into one of advocacy and redemption? In this episode of 'Rehab Confidential', hosts Joe Schrank and Amy Dresner sit down with Patrick O’ Neil, a former bank robber and ex-junkie who has transformed his life and now uses his experiences to push for change.
O’ Neil, author of the memoir 'Gun, Needle, Spoon', shares his gritty journey from the depths of addiction and the harsh realities of prison life to his path toward recovery and redemption. He doesn't shy away from discussing the dark moments but also highlights the glimmers of hope that kept him going. The conversation dives deep into crucial topics like prison reform, the flaws in the abstinence-only model of addiction treatment, and the need for harm reduction strategies.
O’ Neil also sheds light on the importance of community programs and the necessity for a shift in drug policy to support those struggling with addiction. The episode touches on the trauma and biological aspects of addiction, providing a well-rounded perspective on why people fall into these destructive patterns and how they can find their way out.
Joe and Amy also tackle the topic of police militarization and its impact on individuals battling addiction, adding another layer to this multifaceted discussion. Ending on a hopeful note, O’ Neil talks about his current efforts to help others get pardoned and reintegrated into society, emphasizing the power of second chances. If you're interested in an unfiltered, honest conversation about addiction, recovery, and societal change, this episode is a must-listen.