Veteran & Former Senate Candidate Gets Sober

Veteran & Former Senate Candidate Gets Sober

Ever wondered what it takes to turn your life around after hitting rock bottom? Meet Ryan Starzyk, a veteran and former state senate candidate from Arizona, who opens up about his rollercoaster journey to sobriety. In this episode of 'Escaping Rock Bottom', Ryan shares his candid story of battling addiction, overcoming trauma, and finding a new purpose in life. Growing up, Ryan faced unresolved trauma that eventually led him down a dark path.

His service in the Air Force as a military cop brought its own set of challenges, including bullying for his lifestyle choices. The mental health stigma within the military only added to his struggles, pushing him further into the clutches of alcohol and drugs. The pandemic exacerbated his isolation, making social connections difficult and deepening his addiction. Despite these hurdles, Ryan decided to run for state senate in 2020.

Realizing he needed to be sober to truly make a difference, he embarked on his recovery journey. With just 72 days of sobriety at the time of recording, Ryan's story is a powerful testament to resilience and the importance of honesty in recovery. His willingness to share his vulnerabilities aims to inspire others facing similar battles. Tune in to hear how Ryan's experiences shaped his commitment to sobriety and his aspirations to serve his community.