In this episode of The Talking Tradesman Podcast, I sit down with Lee Evans, host of The Zito Run Podcast, to talk about his powerful story of addiction, trauma, and recovery.Find Lee herehttps://www.instagram.com/the_zito_run_podcast?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Lee opens up about how his childhood experiences shaped who he became, the normalisation of substance use in today’s society, and how addiction is often a response to pain and suffering. He talks about hitting rock bottom, including a near-death experience that changed everything, and how he found his way back through love, accountability, and purpose.This is an honest and emotional conversation about the realities of mental health, loneliness, and the fight to rebuild yourself when you’ve lost everything. Lee shares how literature, education, and self-reflection helped him rediscover his identity and turn his pain into purpose – something he now uses to help others through his podcast The Zito Run.If you or someone you know is struggling, this episode is a reminder that recovery is possible and that healing starts with a conversation.Thanks to our Headline sponsors - Zinsser Episode Sponsors - Brewers Decorating Centres🎧 Watch or listen now — full episode available on all platforms.Chapters00:00 Podcasting Journey and Release Schedule00:01 The Importance of Purpose in Recovery02:50 Understanding Addiction and Its Roots06:07 The Zito Run: A Journey Through Darkness09:00 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact12:11 The Cycle of Addiction and Escapism15:04 Coping Mechanisms and Tools for Recovery17:57 Relationships and Addiction21:14 The Role of Society in Normalizing Addiction24:13 Changing the Narrative Around Addiction27:08 Conscious Choices and Breaking Free29:21 The Power of Choice and Mindset31:54 Understanding Addiction and Triggers33:03 The Journey of Self-Discovery35:07 Finding Purpose in Pain38:53 The Role of Thoughts in Reality39:19 The Impact of Loss and Relationships43:52 The Descent into Addiction48:01 The Turning Point: Seeking Help53:04 The Moment of Reckoning58:21 The Path to Recovery and Self-Acceptance01:03:17 Empowerment Through Knowledge and Experience01:05:39 Living a Life of Purpose and Power01:07:02 The Power of Identity and Labels01:11:27 Understanding Addiction and Recovery01:16:29 The Impact of Trauma on Identity01:21:14 The Role of Education in Personal Growth01:27:13 The Journey of Self-Discovery01:33:07 Living with Purpose and Meaning