Ryan O'Callaghan: Tackling Addiction and Embracing Identity in the NFL
I know, if I have to fly to New York on a Monday, I won't book anything till Wednesday, because I know Tuesday I'm going to be hurting like hell.
Ever wondered what it's like to hide your true self while playing in the NFL? Ryan O'Callaghan, a former offensive tackle for the Patriots and Chiefs, takes us on his deeply personal journey of addiction recovery and coming out as a gay man in professional sports.
In this revealing episode of 'Rehab Confidential', hosts Joe Schrank and Amy Dresner sit down with Ryan to discuss the immense pressures he faced, from hiding his sexuality to battling an addiction to prescription painkillers. Despite these challenges, Ryan's story is one of triumph and resilience. He didn't just overcome his struggles; he founded the Ryan O'Callaghan Foundation to support other LGBTQ+ athletes facing similar battles.
This episode dives into heavy topics like the stigma around addiction and mental health, the unique challenges of being a gay athlete, and the transformative power of sharing personal stories. Whether you're interested in sports, recovery, or LGBTQ+ issues, Ryan's candid conversation with Joe and Amy offers valuable insights and hope. Don't miss this chance to hear from someone who's tackled both the football field and life's toughest challenges.