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#4 Ryan Fowler: From the NFL to Addiction—and the Fight for a Better Life

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Manage episode 514197286 series 3680857
Content provided by National Addiction Specialists. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by National Addiction Specialists or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

Former NFL linebacker Ryan Fowler opens up about the hidden world of pain, pressure, and performance inside professional football—and how it led to years of addiction. From Vicodin on the sidelines to a staff member supplying players in the locker room, Fowler shares how the drive to be perfect, strong, and “capable” nearly cost him everything.

Now in recovery, Ryan talks about rebuilding his life, mending relationships, and finding peace in simply being enough. His story is one of brutal honesty, resilience, and redemption—showing that recovery isn’t just about quitting substances, but reclaiming your sense of worth.

You’ll Hear:

  • What life in the NFL was really like behind the scenes — and how painkillers became part of the game
  • How Fowler’s need for validation and perfection fueled his addiction
  • The shocking locker-room system that supplied drugs to players
  • His descent into Adderall and Kratom dependency after football
  • The breaking point that led him to call for help—and what recovery looks like today
  • Why his biggest victory came after the game

Why Listen:

  • To understand the hidden link between performance, pain, and addiction
  • To hear a rare, first-person account of NFL culture and mental health
  • To be reminded that redemption is possible, no matter how far you fall
  • To find hope and practical insight for your own recovery—or someone you love
  continue reading

4 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 514197286 series 3680857
Content provided by National Addiction Specialists. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by National Addiction Specialists or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

Former NFL linebacker Ryan Fowler opens up about the hidden world of pain, pressure, and performance inside professional football—and how it led to years of addiction. From Vicodin on the sidelines to a staff member supplying players in the locker room, Fowler shares how the drive to be perfect, strong, and “capable” nearly cost him everything.

Now in recovery, Ryan talks about rebuilding his life, mending relationships, and finding peace in simply being enough. His story is one of brutal honesty, resilience, and redemption—showing that recovery isn’t just about quitting substances, but reclaiming your sense of worth.

You’ll Hear:

  • What life in the NFL was really like behind the scenes — and how painkillers became part of the game
  • How Fowler’s need for validation and perfection fueled his addiction
  • The shocking locker-room system that supplied drugs to players
  • His descent into Adderall and Kratom dependency after football
  • The breaking point that led him to call for help—and what recovery looks like today
  • Why his biggest victory came after the game

Why Listen:

  • To understand the hidden link between performance, pain, and addiction
  • To hear a rare, first-person account of NFL culture and mental health
  • To be reminded that redemption is possible, no matter how far you fall
  • To find hope and practical insight for your own recovery—or someone you love
  continue reading

4 episodes

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