Episode 212

Break Free from Addiction: Journey of Forgiveness and Redemption - Doug Sweeney

Published on: 19th September, 2023

From a young age, Doug Sweeney found himself battling substance abuse, a struggle that was intensified by a rough upbringing. His dad's continuous berating and unyielding temperament left Doug feeling inadequate and unworthy. He sought solace in alcohol, a vicious cycle that only amplified his feelings of guilt and worthlessness. However, it was a life-altering event that ultimately set Doug on a transformative journey. A tragic accident claimed the life of a friend, leaving Doug in a coma; his life hanging by a thread. Upon his recovery, he received a powerful letter from his deceased friend's mother. She had prayed for Doug's survival and forgave him. This act of generosity and kindness planted the seeds of forgiveness in Doug's heart, laying the foundation for his eventual redemption.

Forgiving others set me free and allowed me to embrace healing and personal transformation. - Doug Sweeney

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover the potential of biblical healing in combating addiction and discovering purpose.
  • Explore the liberating potency of forgiveness, allowing an escape from bitterness and a welcoming of recovery.
  • Understand the critical role a supportive community plays in addiction recovery and the power of shared strength.
  • Conquer feelings of worthlessness by appreciating your past and shaping a self-image rooted in worthiness.
  • Recognize the instrumental role of curiosity in recovery, encouraging a perpetual quest for knowledge, comprehension, and personal growth.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:04:18 - Doug's Journey with Addiction,

00:19:07 - Receiving a Letter from the Victim's Mother,

00:23:14 - Facing Sentencing and Prison,

00:26:19 - The Process of Forgiving His Father,

00:48:17 - Breaking the Chains,

00:50:14 - Identifying Bondages and Forgiveness,


Connect with Doug Sweeney

Website

https://www.breakingbondagefromaddiction.com/


Connect with Mike Forrester

Podcast Website

https://LivingFearlessTodayPodcast.com

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/hicoachmike

LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hicoachmike/

Coaching Website

https://www.hicoachmike.com/

Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/@hicoachmike

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About the Podcast

Living Fearless Today
Helping men live fully alive, boldly and courageously
Do you feel overwhelmed when making decisions? Struggle to take action in your personal life or career? Think you're alone in these situations? You're not! In fact, you're in good company. 
 
I'm Mike Forrester, host of the Living Fearless Today podcast. Join me as I interview other men who triumphed over their own adversities, learn how they did it and where they are today. So that whatever you're facing, know others fought the same battle and have conquered those challenges. They are now encouraging you and me to live our life boldly and courageously alongside them.
 
Let's disprove the lie that we're the only one who's going through this situation, that no one knows what it's like. You're not alone in the struggle you're working through. As men, we have more in common in our journey than you might want to believe.
 
Join me here each Tuesday for the interview and then again on Friday as I spotlight the lessons learned. How we can apply them to become the confident and courageous man we're wanting to be - for ourselves, our wife and our children.
 
Be sure to give a follow to the Living Fearless Today podcast on your favorite platform. I look forward to being with you during the next episode.

About your host

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Mike Forrester

Mike Forrester is a men's transformation coach, founder of the Living Fearless coaching programs, and host of the Living Fearless Today podcast. His insights, methods and stories of overcoming childhood trauma, dyslexia and loss of loved ones have been featured on various podcasts, including Hanging Onto Hope, Extreme Health, Own Your Life Own Your Career and Think Unbroken.