In this episode of Addicted to Recovery, hosts Christopher White and Max Thomas sit down with Chef Adam Hardiman, a recovering addict, to explore his deeply personal journey through addiction and recovery. Adam opens up about his childhood experiences and the family dynamics that shaped his early years, offering insight into how his struggles with anxiety and self-worth influenced his path. He recounts the pivotal moments that led to his introduction to substances during adolescence, emphasising the role of peer pressure and the search for validation. As the conversation unfolds, Adam details the gradual escalation of his addiction, culminating in a serious health crisis that resulted in hospitalisation. His battle with prescription painkillers and the manipulation tactics he used to sustain his dependency highlight the complexities of addiction and the challenges of seeking help.

Throughout the discussion, Adam reflects on the uncomfortable but necessary process of personal growth, noting how facing difficult emotions has been essential to his recovery. He shares how moving to London marked a continuation of his struggles, but also set the stage for a turning point in his life. A key moment in Adam’s journey was a heart-wrenching confrontation with his mother, whose love and concern forced him to acknowledge the reality of his situation. He discusses the cycle of addiction, including the concept of cross addiction—how he justified replacing one substance with another—and the desperate moments that eventually led him to rehab.

The latter half of the episode shifts focus to the hope and transformation that come with recovery. Adam describes his experience in rehab as a new beginning, a space where he could finally confront his past and start rebuilding his life. He speaks candidly about the challenges of life after rehab, acknowledging that recovery is an ongoing process filled with setbacks but also immense growth. One of the most profound aspects of his journey has been the power of fellowship—sharing his story, embracing support from others in recovery, and finding purpose through fatherhood. His experience serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of change, reinforcing the message that if he can do it, anyone can.