In this deeply honest and inspiring episode of *Give A Sit*, we sit down with Ian Rader to unpack the life he was once so close to reaching—and the unexpected detour that ultimately led him to something far more meaningful. Ian shares his journey of academic success, including studying in England where he was thriving and on a clear path toward a promising future. From the outside, everything looked aligned. But behind the scenes, life had other plans.While back in California and waiting for his master’s program to begin, Ian found himself in a difficult season that quickly turned into a battle with substance abuse. He opens up about how easily momentum can shift, how isolation and uncertainty can creep in, and how quickly life can move off course when mental health and coping mechanisms aren’t addressed. Ian speaks candidly about the weight of that period and how close he came to losing the future he had worked so hard for.Through that struggle, Ian eventually found his way to Utah—a move that became a turning point in his life. What started as a fresh start became a complete rebuilding process, grounded in accountability, self-awareness, and a commitment to growth. Today, Ian is an advocate and counselor for those in need, using his lived experience to connect with people who feel stuck, lost, or overwhelmed. His story is a powerful reminder that healing often begins when we stop running from our past and start learning from it.Beyond his professional work, Ian has built a life he is truly proud of—one rooted in purpose, service, and stability. He shares how he found the partner he always hoped to have by his side and how that relationship reflects the growth he’s made as a person. Throughout the conversation, Ian drops countless practical nuggets of wisdom around mental health, addiction, discipline, self-belief, and what it really takes to create lasting change.This episode is raw, relatable, and full of takeaways that apply to anyone—whether you’re navigating your own struggles, supporting someone you love, or simply looking for perspective and motivation. Ian’s story proves that no matter how far off track life may feel, it’s never too late to rebuild, redefine success, and create a life you’re proud to live.#podcast #mentalhealth #success #journey #shareyourstory