In this episode, Coach Blu Robinson interviews Michael Bugary, with a bright future in professional baseball, his life took a dramatic turn due to addiction and a cancer diagnosis. Michael shares his journey from being a promising baseball player to facing the harsh realities of addiction and illness. He discusses the importance of identity, the struggles of coping with loss, and the role of family in his recovery. Michael emphasizes the healing power of therapy dogs and the significance of authenticity in his new role as a motivational speaker and advocate for others facing similar challenges. He reflects on his future aspirations and the purpose he has found in helping others.

Takeaways

Michael's identity was deeply tied to his baseball career.
Addiction often stems from a need for validation and coping mechanisms.
The loss of sports can lead to a profound identity crisis.
Michael's cancer diagnosis forced him to confront his choices.
Family plays a crucial role in the recovery journey.
Therapy dogs can provide significant emotional support.
Authenticity is key in connecting with others in recovery.
Michael aims to help children with cancer through his experiences.
Finding purpose in helping others can be a powerful motivator.
Recovery is a personal journey that requires honesty and self-reflection.

For More Info: https://www.michaelbugary.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey
02:46 The Identity Crisis of an Athlete
05:56 The Struggles of Addiction
08:45 Facing Life's Curveballs: The Cancer Diagnosis
11:47 The Impact of Family and Relationships
14:43 Finding Purpose Beyond Baseball
17:40 The Role of Spirituality in Recovery
20:42 Helping Others: The New Mission
25:31 The Healing Power of Therapy Dogs
29:50 Transformative Public Speaking Experiences
37:58 Navigating Treatment and Recovery
43:38 Finding Purpose in Helping Others

Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety!

https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete

Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts.

https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us.

Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA!

Join Circle

https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary story of Cliff Young, the humble Australian potato farmer who became a national legend by winning the grueling 1983 Sydney to Melbourne Ultramarathon at the age of 61. With no formal training and dressed in work boots, Cliff stunned the world with his relentless determination, unique “Young Shuffle” running style, and unwavering spirit. Not only did he beat seasoned athletes by nearly two days, but he also captured hearts by selflessly sharing his prize money with fellow competitors. Cliff Young’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, humility, and believing in yourself—no matter your age or background.

Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety!

https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete

Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts.

https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us.

Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA!

Join Circle

https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519