This is the first in a series I’m doing for Sober October. The idea is that if there is someone listening that can identify with these stories - maybe they’ll see that a number of their peers are going through something similar and see that it’s ok to ask for help. It takes a lot for someone to come forward and talk about their story - and a ton of courage to talk about it publicly on a podcast. So, please give them your attention and applaud their journey. If you’re struggling with something you’d like to get control of - there are resources out there.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline – 1-800-273-8255

Cocaine Anonymous – 1-877-978-1309

Alcoholics Anonymous – 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

James Rugile is a badass chef. Talented, thoughtful, and sober. I talk with him, Emily Schrader from BarZero, and licensed therapist Kathy Hawkins about the journey from "rock bottom" to now. Please listen to their stories. It takes a hero to admit when they need help. This is a story about heroes and heroic acts. F&B workers have the highest rate of illegal drug use and rank 3rd for heavy alcohol consumption in the country, and In 2016, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention listed chefs and food service workers as one of the top 20 professions with the highest suicide rates.