Dr. Ryan Emery: From Marathoner to Recovery Advocate
I realized in that process that [addiction] was less about the substance and more about what I was doing to get away from myself, and that had started way earlier.
Imagine being at the peak of your athletic career, only to have it all come crashing down due to addiction. That's the story of Dr. Ryan Emery, a former Nike-sponsored runner turned elementary school principal, who found himself ensnared by opiates after a series of injuries. In this episode of 'Chasing Heroine', Jeannine and Kim sit down with Dr. Emery to uncover his journey from the heights of athleticism to the depths of addiction and back to sobriety.
Ryan's tale isn't just about falling; it's about rising again, with three years of sobriety under his belt and a renewed purpose in life. He opens up about the challenges he faced, both personally and professionally, as his addiction threatened his career and reputation at a prestigious school in Calabasas, CA. Through candid conversation, Dr. Emery discusses the importance of harm reduction, the transformative power of gratitude, and the need to support others in their recovery journeys.
He also tackles the stereotypes and stigma that often surround addiction, offering a fresh perspective that goes beyond just the substances involved. As Ryan puts it, 'It was less about the substance and more about what I was doing to get away from myself.' This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, honesty, and the human spirit's capacity for change. Whether you're battling addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, Dr.
Emery's story offers hope and practical insights for navigating the road to recovery.