Back from Broken

The season ends with Vic Vela coming to terms with one of the biggest health scares of his life, while also navigating an emotional, historic championship run for his beloved Denver Nuggets. Over the last few months Vic recorded audio diaries of his experiences. He shares some of his best and worst days as he copes with a health crisis that nearly took his life — along with edge-of-your seat playoff basketball musings — all while trying to stay sober and taking things one day at a time. You can also check out Vic’s original memoir episode from Season 1. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Mixed by: Kibwe Cooper Additional editorial support: Rebekah Romberg, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 25 August 2023

Matthew Fisher always felt like an outsider. He struggled to make friends and was overcome by mood swings. By age 13, he turned to drugs and alcohol to cope. His father, Steven, watched from the sidelines, desperately trying to help his son. This is the story of how a father and son found recovery and healed their rocky relationship. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Jo Erickson Additional editorial support: Erin Jones, Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 18 August 2023

Khadi Oluwatoyin was always a high achiever. She excelled in law school and got her dream job, as a lawyer in New York City, in her early twenties. Racial and gender barriers didn’t stop her. Nothing stood in the way of her career, except alcohol. But when Khadi sought help for her drinking, she often found she was the only Black woman in the room. So she created her own recovery group for Black women and nonbinary folks to help others — and herself — through recovery. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Emily Williams Editor: Jo Erickson Mixed by: Kibwe Cooper Additional editorial support: Erin Jones, Rebekah Romberg, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 11 August 2023

Aaron Taylor was a standout athlete at the University of Notre Dame. He went on to become a Super Bowl champion with the Green Bay Packers. But behind all that success, Aaron was a high-functioning alcoholic. After an injury ended his career, Aaron had to come to terms with his addiction and heal the childhood trauma he had never addressed. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Kibwe Cooper Editor: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 4 August 2023

Pebe Sebert's dreams of becoming a professional songwriter started coming true when Dolly Parton recorded one of her songs and it became a hit. But Pebe felt like a fish out of water, and she used alcohol to deal with those feelings. Other drugs came into the mix, too. But after she had her daughter Kesha, Pebe knew something had to change -- and years later, Kesha became the pop star Pebe always dreamed of being. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Emily Williams Editor: Erin Jones Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Rebekah Romberg, Kibwe Cooper, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 28 July 2023

Growing up, Natalie Hodges practiced the violin every moment she could. She was good, and the practice made her excellent. She started down the path of becoming a professional violinist until debilitating performance anxiety put a wrench in her dreams. But it helped her discover the root of her problems -- and put her on the road to recovery. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Erin Jones Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 21 July 2023

Drew Robinson was a talented professional baseball player. It seemed like all his goals were coming to fruition. But he couldn't shake a sense of deep inadequacy. Those feelings eventually brought him to the darkest moment of his life. In that moment, he realized he was here for good reasons, and he committed to living. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Jo Erickson Additional editorial support: Kibwe Cooper, Emily Williams, Erin Jones, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 14 July 2023

Like her father, Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys, Carnie Wilson found solace and joy in music. She started the group Wilson Phillips with her sister and childhood friend. But then, it turned out she inherited some of her father's addiction issues, too. With the help of her community, she rose from her darkest place. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Kibwe Cooper Editor: Rebekah Romberg Additional editorial support: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams, Andrew Villegas Music: Daniel Mescher and Brad Turner with additional music from Universal Production Music Executive producers: Brad Turner, Kevin Dale Thanks also to Rachel Estabrook, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Arielle Wilson, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 7 July 2023

We’re back with more stories about the highest highs, the darkest moments and what it takes to make a comeback.Back From Broken returns on July 7, with more emotional and raw storytelling, joyful moments and hope. Make sure you’re following Back From Broken wherever you get your podcasts so you don’t miss an episodeAnd if you're already following us, do us a favor: Share Back from Broken with a couple of friends who could use it. Thank you for listening and supporting the podcast!

Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2023

When journalist Ted Jackson set out to do a story on homelessness, he never imagined he'd meet a former NFL player who'd made it to three Super Bowls. But there was unhoused Jackie Wallace, a former cornerback facing a long journey of recovery. After Ted wrote a story about Jackie, the two became good friends. But then, as the years passed, Jackie disappeared -- twice. Yet Ted refused to let Jackie slip away. This is the powerful story of their friendship. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Erin Jones Additional producers: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2022

Morgan Sinclair wrestled with his identity as a trans man growing up. He turned to drugs to numb his feelings, and struggled with addiction. As a teen, he found a way to break free through rehab, as well as Denver's unique 5280 High School. Now, at age 19, he's four years sober, out and proud -- and has his whole life ahead of him. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2022

Lissa Yellow Bird-Chase is an Arikara woman who, after years of struggling with addiction and abusive relationships, has found healing, recovery, and purpose in investigating unsolved murders. The story of her spiritual path to recovery is memorable and moving. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editors: Rebekah Romberg, Erin Jones Additional producer: Jo Erickson Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2022

Leah V got married young. Her relationship was tumultuous, with high highs and low lows -- including a physical altercation that ended with Leah in jail. But therapy changed her life and allowed her to heal. Now, she's a successful writer and social media influencer, and a role model to others. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editors: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones Additional producer: Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2022

Actor Jim Belushi is famous for his work on shows like Saturday Night Live and movies like About Last Night. He also knows firsthand the pain of losing a loved one who struggled with drugs. Jim shares moving memories of his late brother John Belushi, and talks about coping with grief and finding a way to move forward. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Mixed by Matthew Simonson Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2022

Lynn Chen faced comments about her weight from her family at an early age. Later, when she became an actor, she heard about her weight from her Hollywood colleagues. She developed an eating disorder, but found an unusual way to get help and heal. The actor, who appeared on “Grey's Anatomy,” speaks candidly about food, eating disorders, body image, and boundaries. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Erin Jones Additional producers: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2022

At an early age, Shane Price realized he could pour on the charm with women, and at 16 years old he started his career as a pimp. After a violent incident left him shaken, Shane made changes to his life. Today, he works in Black communities as a leading figure in advocating for prison reform. He’s also the director of Power of People Leadership Institute in Minnesota, which offers support to ex-offenders. This is the story of how his transformation came together. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Mixed by Matthew Simonson Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2022

Tierre Caldwell grew up without a father in a violent gang setting in Minneapolis. As a teenager, he developed addictions to drugs and alcohol. After an argument, he shot a man and was sent to prison for seven years. He wound up in solitary for six months, where he had no choice but to stop using and face his demons. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Erin Jones Mixed by Matthew Simonson Additional producers: Rebekah Romberg, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Kevin Dale, Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2022

When we can meet each other with empathy and compassion, we can find hope. That is exactly what Back From Broken is all about. And it’s why we’re coming back for a third season.Back From Broken returns on March 4, with some of the most powerful stories we’ve ever told. So please make sure you’re following Back From Broken wherever you get your podcasts.     And if you're already following us, do us a favor: Share Back from Broken with a couple of friends who could use it. Thank you for listening and supporting the podcast!

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2022

Hunter Biden’s struggle with addiction has been intense — and very public. His battle with alcohol and cocaine addiction came under scrutiny as his father, Joe Biden, ran for president. But with the support of his family, Hunter found the help he needed. His recovery story, which he shared in his book “Beautiful Things,” offers hope to those who are still struggling. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Brad Turner Editor: Dennis Funk Producers: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2021

Kevin Griffin was a talented musician who struggled with addiction, felt diretionless in life and eventually became homeless. Until he discovered Buddhism and a recovery program -- and wrote a book that blended the two concepts and helped countless readers struggling with their own addictions. One of those readers was Vic Vela, Back From Broken's host. That connection adds a personal angle to an episode that's full of surprises and hope. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editors: Dennis Funk, Ann Marie Awad Producers: Jo Erickson, Luis Antonio Perez Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2021

Tracie Lechman's recovery story starts with a troubled relationship: Her high school boyfriend committed a horrific crime in which four innocent people lost their lives. The fallout left Tracie entangled in the criminal justice system, struggling with addiction and haunted by trauma. Her story is about how recovery can be a long journey, but illustrates that life does get better once you seek help. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Dennis Funk Producers: Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2021

Matthew Jarvis grew up in a home where his parents fought a lot, sometimes violently. That situation set the stage for years of difficult relationships and a crack cocaine addiction. But then a realization led Matthew to change his outlook on life -- and ultimately help others with similar challenges. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editor: Dennis Funk Producers: Jo Erickson, Rebekah Romberg Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner, Blue Dot Sessions Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2021

Elena Joy Thurston was a devout Mormon, and took her faith seriously. Then she fell in love with another woman, and found herself in punishing sessions of what's often called conversion therapy -- a process meant to turn gay people straight. Elena shares the story of how she handled that trauma, learned to accept herself and ultimately find love. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Dennis Funk Producers: Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2021

As both a student and a teacher, Jessica Dueñas found a sanctuary in the classroom. She was confident, capable and passionate about learning and helping students. But her struggle with alcoholism made her reevaluate her priorities — and the career she loved. Yet somehow, she's more hopeful than before. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Matthew Simonson Editor: Rachel Estabrook Producers: Luis Antonio Perez, Jo Erickson, Rebekah Romberg, Dennis Funk Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2021

John Evans was a directionless young man who felt a calling to join the military after 9/11. What he witnessed in Iraq rattled him, and he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and addiction for years. But he found help, and now he spends his life helping other veterans who are struggling. This episode was adapted from "Soldiering On," a Back From Broken virtual live event presented by Colorado Public Radio and the American Homefront Project, a nationwide public radio collaboration exploring veterans' stories. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Hear more music from John Evans on his YouTube channel. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editor: Dennis Funk Producers: Jo Erickson and Rebekah Romberg Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner and Blue Dot Sessions Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2021

Author Catherine Cho recounts how one of the happiest moments of her life turned ugly when she developed postpartum psychosis shortly after the birth of her first child. This is the story of how she and her family made it through. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Jo Erickson Editor: Dennis Funk Producers: Luis Antonio Perez, Rebekah Romberg Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2021

Writer and comedian Sara Benincasa travels the world speaking about her struggle with agoraphobia -- which is funny, since her condition often gives her an intense fear of traveling. Her story also touches on family, addiction and why having a terrible day doesn't mean life will always be terrible. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Luis Antonio Perez Editor: Dennis Funk Producers: Rebekah Romberg, Jo Erickson Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2021

Before he became host of the shows Bizarre Foods and What’s Eating America, Andrew Zimmern struggled for years with alcoholism. He was broke and desperate before he got help. Now, he's a found a way forward and he uses his work in restaurants to help others struggling with addiction. Back From Broken is a show about how we are all broken sometimes, and how we need help from time to time. If you’re struggling, you can find a list of resources at BackFromBroken.org. Host: Vic Vela Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg Editor: Dennis Funk Producers: Luis Antonio Perez, Jo Erickson Music: Daniel Mescher, Brad Turner Executive producers: Brad Turner, Rachel Estabrook Thanks also to Hart van Denburg, Jodi Gersh, Clara Shelton, Matt Herz, Martin Skavish, Kim Nguyen, Francie Swidler. BackFromBroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2021

Last season we told stories of life's challenges. Of recovery and hope. And you listened! So we're coming back.It’s a hard time in our world. There’s a lot to cope with right now. And we want to be here for you -- whatever you're dealing with.We return on Feb. 26, so please subscribe. And if you're already subscribed, please do us a favor: Share Back from Broken with a couple of friends who could use a little hope in their lives.

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2021

In this special episode, Colorado Public Radio reporter Dan Boyce uses interviews with friends and family, plus a fishing trip, to piece together lost memories from his own mental breakdown. A quick warning: This story is brutal at times, and raw. It contains content that may not be suitable for all listeners, including strong language and frank discussion of suicide. By the time Dan was 30, when most of this episode takes place, he was doing well for himself. He was moving from local reporting in his native Montana, to covering national stories from his new home in Denver. Dan had previously suffered from bouts of depression through most of his life, but nothing he couldn’t overcome. During this time though, Dan really slipped — descending into a depression so severe that it led to a complete mental breakdown. On today’s episode, how Dan bounced back from the edge of insanity. Here’s a story Dan calls “The Long Lonely Lake.”

Transcribed - Published: 22 December 2020

Jake "The Snake" Roberts was one of the most famous pro wrestlers of the 1980s. He had a massive following. But behind the scenes he was addicted to drugs and alcohol, and haunted by childhood abuse. This is the story of how Jake "The Snake" turned things around and found a second career as a stand-up comedian.

Transcribed - Published: 26 June 2020

Paul Scudo had a flashy, high-powered hotel job — and behind the scenes, he had a longtime drug addiction. When he couldn't hide it anymore, things blew up in his face. But he managed to use his newfound wisdom to help some of the most troubled drug addicts in Colorado get their lives back on track. On Twitter: @VicVela1 More about Step Denver: stepdenver.org

Transcribed - Published: 12 June 2020

Whatever Keri Blakinger puts her mind to, she excels at. She has incredible focus. But that worked against her when she got into heroin. Hear Keri's journey from the edge of athletic stardom, to the depths of addiction, to a new career in journalism that puts her in the national spotlight for something entirely different. backfrombroken.org On Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2020

Andy Bellatti couldn't resist the lights and sounds of a slot machine. He spent his days in Las Vegas building a successful career as a personable, TV-ready fitness expert, and his nights gambling away his savings. This is the story of how he hit rock bottom, and then confronted the demons that fueled his gambling addiction and finally got help. By the way: We like to end episodes of Back from Broken with comeback stories from our listeners. We'd love to hear how you're doing in your recovery. You can record your update as a voice memo or mp3. Tell us your first name and city of residence, something good that's happened in your recovery lately, and why it gives you hope. Hit save and send it to [email protected]. We might feature it on a future episode. Thanks!

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2020

Dana Smith has a unusual job: She helps people in recovery reach their potential at a gym dedicated to sobriety and fitness. But she didn’t reach this point easily. This is the story of how she overcame her own addiction, found new purpose in life after a horrific accident, and built a career she loves. Follow Vic Vela on Twitter: @VicVela1

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2020

The Lumineers have sold millions of records and played stadiums around the globe. Their latest album is all about the pain of addiction and what it's like to see a loved one struggle with substance abuse. The band members share the personal stories that inspired the music, and play stripped-down versions of three songs, including the hit "Gloria." It's an intimate live episode recorded in front of an audience of people in recovery at the Clocktower Cabaret in Denver.

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2020

Host Vic Vela has been through addiction, and now he’s in recovery. On this episode, Vic gives a first-person account of how his cocaine use affected the people around him. And he shows why there's hope for everyone who longs to make a comeback.

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2020

She's one of the greatest basketball players of all time. She was a three-time national champion in college and later starred in the WNBA. But Chamique Holdsclaw has struggled with mental health problems and bipolar disorder. She tells her story and explains how she wants to help others think differently about mental health.

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2020

A driver rammed into David Mellor when he was 18. It ended his hopes of pitching in the major leagues. It also led to years of sleepless nights cold sweats, and eventually a diagnosis of PTSD. David talks about how that diagnosis changed him, and how he did finally make it to Major League Baseball.

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2020

Anders Osborne is a talented singer, blues guitarist and songwriter from New Orleans. He was dependent on alcohol for years — and it nearly destroyed his career and family. Anders opens up about his struggles with addiction, explains how he got sober and shares songs about those experiences. He also talks about the role drugs and alcohol play in the music industry, and why he created a network to help other musicians in recovery stay clean while on tour. If you or a friend is struggling with addiction, help is available. Find a list of resources at backfrombroken.org.

Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2020

Back From Broken is a podcast about the highest highs, the darkest moments and what it takes to make a comeback. Colorado Public Radio’s Vic Vela — a journalist and recovering drug addict — talks to guests about how they’ve struggled and the surprising ways they put their lives back together. It’s an intimate show about challenges like substance abuse, PTSD, gambling addiction and mental health issues. Ultimately, it’s a podcast about hope.    The first episode arrives Feb. 21, so subscribe now!

Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2020