My journey with addiction started at an incredibly young age, shaping much of my life before I reached recovery. Beginning with my first drink at just four years old, then drinking alcoholically by 16, and introducing THC at 17 and cocaine at 21, I was caught in a cycle of substance use that lasted over a decade. That "trifecta"—alcohol, THC, and cocaine—became the substances I chased, reinforcing each other and making it harder to break free. But what ultimately pushed me towards recovery wasn’t a personal realization at first—it was an intervention by the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Department. That moment was significant enough to shake my world and set me on the path to change. I realized I was not alone in this fight.

The realization that I needed help came from a place of complete hopelessness—I was physically wasting away at 130 pounds, trapped in a downward spiral that was leading towards either being locked up, covered up or sobered up, I chose the latter. I had reached the end of myself, knowing deep down that I couldn’t keep going alone, and He could help, if I asked Him. The turning point for me wasn’t just hitting rock bottom; it was the moment my pastor reminded me that God had never left. That message—that He had been with me under bridges, eating out of dumpsters, even in jail—was exactly what I needed to hear. It wasn’t just words; it was a lifeline. That realization gave me the strength to surrender, and from that day forward, I’ve been clean and sober. It’s powerful how one reminder, at the right time, can shift everything.

Pride was my biggest obstacle—the belief that I could handle it on my own. Admitting I had a problem meant confronting that pride and acknowledging that “I couldn’t fix this alone”, which is one of the hardest things for many people struggling with addiction. Asking for help was deeply tied to that struggle. It wasn’t just about saying, “I need help,” but about truly surrendering to the reality that addiction had taken control and that outside support was necessary. That shift—from self-reliance to accepting help—can feel like losing control, but in reality, it’s where real freedom begins.

The people and rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Cocaine Anonymous (CA). I saw Hope and Freedom living in those folks and knew I found my people, if I could be teachable and not use no matter what.

The greatest impact on my recovery came from the people and rooms of AA and CA. Those meetings weren’t just about quitting substances—they were about seeing HOPE and FREEDOM, alive in others. I saw something in them that I wanted for myself, and that realization was powerful. But it wasn’t just about being in the rooms—it was about being teachable and embracing the idea of “not using, no matter what”. That mindset shift—from self-reliance to surrendering to the wisdom and experience of others—was a crucial part of my journey. I found my people, a community where I didn’t have to fight alone.

My daily habits include prayer, meditation, and working with others in recovery—they are the foundation of my sobriety. Each one plays a crucial role in keeping me grounded and connected to my recovery journey. Prayer – keeps me spiritually centered and reminds me that I’m not doing this alone. It helps me surrender control and trust in something greater than myself. Meditation – provides clarity and peace, allowing me to slow down, process emotions, and stay mindful instead of reacting impulsively. Working with others in recovery – keeps me accountable, reinforces the 1st Step, and allows me to give back what was given. Helping others strengthens my own commitment to sobriety.

“One is too many and a thousand is never enough”. This is the principle that reflects the nature of addiction. It’s about recognizing that no matter how much I use or drink, it will never be enough to fill the void or satisfy the craving. This helps reinforce the idea that the moment I engage in mind-altering substances, I’m stepping into a cycle that’s almost impossible to break once it starts. “Play the tape all the way through”, I visualize the consequences, the fallout, and the eventual return to despair if I were to relapse. By vividly imagining how things will play out, I remind myself that one drink or one hit is not just a momentary indulgence; it’s the beginning of a dangerous path. This helps keep the consequences of using at the forefront of my mind. “I am not sure I have another recovery in me”, the thought of running out of chances is a powerful motivator, recognizing the real risks of relapse, not just for my health, but also for my emotional and mental well-being. “Relapse is not an option”, having a mindset that relapse is simply not an option is a critical part of my recovery. By choosing to commit to sobriety as a non-negotiable part of my life, It gives me more clarity. It’s not about fighting temptation every day, it’s about making the decision that there is no room for relapse. “Mind-altering substances are a slippery slope”, vigilance. Once I start using substances that alter my mind, I know that brain chemistry can quickly shift back into the craving cycle. Staying away from anything that can trigger those old patterns is vital. Whether it's alcohol or drugs—once I’m on that slippery slope, it's hard to stop myself from sliding all the way down. “If I don’t drink or use, I won’t die”, a simple yet profound truth. Many people in recovery come to realize that addiction itself is a form of death—not necessarily in a physical sense, but in terms of living a life of despair, chaos, and disconnection. By staying sober, I am preserving my future, my relationships, and my peace of mind. These truths are like personal anchors that I can return to whenever doubt or temptation threatens. They have helped build a strong foundation for resilience and clarity, ensuring that I remain focused on my goal of staying sober. For me, it’s also important to acknowledge the small wins and progress. Sobriety isn’t about being perfect every single moment; it’s about continuously making choices that honor my well-being and long-term goals.

My life today is rich with purpose and connection, which is such a powerful reflection of the recovery journey. Working with others—helping them find their way to sobriety and heal through Honesty, Openness, and Willingness—gives life so much meaning. My experience not only empowers me, but also brings HOPE to so many people in need of support. I am showing them that while recovery is a challenge, it's also one of the most transformative and rewarding journeys a person can undertake. Working with individuals, families, and couples gives me a unique perspective. I am not only helping people heal, but I am also witnessing the ripple effects of sobriety. I get to witness lives mending, relationships strengthening, and families rebuilding trust and connection. That’s incredible, and it’s a gift I am able share with others every day. And then there's the personal side of my life, which is just as fulfilling! My wife and two Great Danes are my grounding force, my "home base" amidst the work I do for others. The peace and joy they bring me and others is fantastic. There’s something so beautiful about that simple reminder, “Life gets Gooder and Gooder,” as Blackie says. It’s such an uplifting phrase—a great reminder that even on the tough days, things can improve, and that sobriety is not just about not using substances, but about expanding the joy and good things in life

My roots, both in Iowa and Colorado, have shaped who I am today. That sense of home—whether it’s my personal journey through recovery or my connection to the places I’ve lived—is something that often provides strength and direction when things get tough. My dedication to recovery, my family, and the work I do with others is incredibly fulfilling. I have some passions outside of work—like golf, supporting our Colorado sports teams, and our long-standing commitment to the Broncos. Those passions, hobbies, and interests outside of recovery are a reminder that life is about balance, joy, and connection. Being a season ticket holder for the Broncos since 1976, my family’s loyalty and our long-term view on things. It’s not just a love for the game but also a reflection of our steadfast commitment to sticking with something we care about, even through ups and downs. Whether it's in my personal life or my professional one, I have the ability to remain dedicated and present for the things I love, even through the years. Playing golf with my family and friends is a peaceful, grounding experience—a chance to relax, connect, and be outside in Colorado’s natural beauty. I have found ways to incorporate leisure and community into my life, creating a well-rounded sense of fulfillment.