In episode 33 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Ansu, who shares his powerful story of battling alcoholism for over a decade while struggling with identity, family abandonment, and a toxic marriage. From growing up between cultures and living as a “functional” addict to hitting rock bottom and finding faith, Ansu opens up about his journey toward healing, self-discovery, and spiritual growth. Through honesty and reflection, he reveals how surrendering to God and embracing humility helped him rebuild his life and find true purpose beyond addiction.

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Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Guest Introduction

00:40 Growing Up Between Cultures

02:18 Family Dynamics and Childhood Challenges

05:13 Landmark Childhood Events and Moving

08:07 Adjusting to New Environments

10:11 Struggles with Identity and Acceptance

13:13 Experimenting with Substances in Adolescence

16:46 College Life: Escalation of Alcohol & Drugs

21:21 Living as a 'Functional' Addict

25:29 Marriage, Stress, & Substance Abuse

32:57 Divorce, Rock Bottom & Hitting Crisis

37:34 Withdrawal, Recovery & Spiritual Awakening

41:05 Finding Healing Through Community & Faith

44:22 Spirituality vs Organized Religion

48:28 Humility, Ego, and Emotional Growth

52:00 Service, Connection, and Helping Others

56:41 Emotions, Reactions, and Growth

01:00:10 God, Purpose, and Identity

01:04:04 Materialism, Fulfillment & Guiding Decisions

01:10:59 Defining God, Spirituality & Personal Belief

01:14:32 Closing Reflections & Gratitude

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

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