Brandon Novak on underestimating his addiction and turning inward to find recovery

Heart of the Matter

Former professional skateboarder, TV stuntman, and recovery advocate Brandon Novak joins Elizabeth Vargas to talk about how he went from a skateboarding prodigy and reality star to homeless. He also shares where he is now: celebrating six years of recovery and spreading hope to others who are struggling.

Brandon opens up to Elizabeth about “underestimating” his addiction, and the consequences he faced during his decades-long journey with substance use. He also talks about how his mother coped with his addiction and the only two regrets he has today.

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After you listen, explore these resources from Partnership to End Addiction to learn more about the topics and themes discussed in this episode:

• How to Encourage Your Child to Get Help for Their Substance Use or Addiction
• Allowing for Natural Consequences to Encourage Behavior Change
• Get One-on-One Help to Address Your Child’s Substance Use

To learn more:
Partnership to End Addiction website
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