Andrew Grazen shares his journey from a seemingly normal childhood into years of addiction, incarceration, and near-death experiences, and how recovery, community, and writing ultimately saved his life. From discovering substances at a young age to overdosing in his car and writing a memoir while incarcerated, Andrew reflects on loss, resilience, and why staying connected—and holding onto hope—can change everything.

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Raised around biker culture, gangs, and addiction, Dave began using drugs and alcohol at a young age, experienced multiple overdoses, and lived a life surrounded by violence, crime, and loss. After losing both parents, surviving near-death experiences, and reaching a breaking point, Dave made a life-changing decision to seek recovery.

In this episode, Dave talks about trauma, addiction, spirituality, accountability, and what it truly means to rewrite your story. Today, he is a tattoo shop owner, mentor, and someone deeply committed to service, recovery, and personal growth.

This is a raw, honest conversation about addiction, recovery, faith, and transformation.

00:00 Introduction & Dave’s recovery time
01:00 Growing up around biker culture and gangs
03:00 Early trauma, loss, and first substance use
06:00 First overdose and rehab at 14
09:00 Exposure to heroin and escalation
12:00 Gangs, weapons charges, and self-destruction
15:00 Spiritual breaking point and near-death experience
18:00 Entering treatment with willingness
21:00 Emotional breakthrough in rehab
24:00 Early recovery and rebuilding trust
27:00 Tattooing, service work, and purpose
30:00 Life today in recovery
33:00 Giving back and redefining success

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The holidays can be one of the hardest times to stay sober — especially in early recovery or when you’re sober curious. In this conversation, Derek Benson shares why he created the Sober Holiday Hotline, a peer-to-peer support line for anyone struggling to get through holiday gatherings, family pressure, or moments of temptation. This hotline isn’t affiliated with rehabs, government agencies, or 12-step programs. Instead, it offers anonymous, lived-experience support from people in recovery who understand what those moments feel like. From practical tips to simple human connection, the goal is to help someone get through the night sober — and remind them they’re not alone. If staying sober during the holidays feels overwhelming, this conversation explains why connection matters and how support can make all the difference.

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🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

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🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

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