Stories That Save Lives

A personal note from Chad Johnson, long-term sober human and host of the “Not All There” podcast.

There’s never been a more critical time to speak up.

Across the country, funding for mental health and addiction recovery services is being slashed, and departments that once served as lifelines are being dismantled. Federal employees and community providers who’ve dedicated their lives to helping others are being laid off.

As someone who has personally benefited from these services, I find this alarming and heartbreaking. Without them, I might not have found the help, hope, and healing that saved my life. Now, many people like me may not get that same chance.

Even more troubling is the growing number of treatment facilities that treat clients like commodities—using people in recovery as revenue streams rather than human beings seeking a second chance. Recovery is not a business model. It’s a human necessity. It’s about saving lives, not increasing profit margins.

Why Stories Matter

I share my story because I have to.
Not because it’s easy—but because it’s necessary.

My story isn’t unique. It’s a story shared by millions who have battled addiction—whether to alcohol, drugs, work, perfectionism, food, relationships, or chaos. Stories like mine resonate with those who need to hear that they are not alone.

With the decline in available services, more people will suffer in silence. Some may find their way to help—but far too many will not. And that silence can become deadly.

When we tell our stories, we chip away at that silence. We remind people that they are not broken, weird, bad, or unworthy of joy. We remind them that recovery is possible, that hope is real, and that no one heals alone.

A Chain Reaction of Hope

Hope leads to help.
Help leads to faith.
Faith leads to acceptance.
And acceptance leads to happiness.

This is why I do the work I do.

My podcast, Not All There, is reaching people not only in the U.S. but also in the U.K., India, and Australia. I offer sober and recovery coaching for those seeking a more personal, private path toward healing. And I continue to tell my story—and encourage others to share theirs—because it’s one of the most powerful tools we have.

I’m not driven by obligation alone; I’m driven by gratitude. I get to do this work. I get to live a life that once felt impossible—and if my story helps one person believe in the possibility of theirs, it’s worth every word.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

If you’d like to share your story of recovery—anonymously or otherwise—email me at chad@soberchad.com.

Together, we can build something the system can’t take away: a community of hope.

In solidarity and sobriety,
Chad Johnson
Host of the Not All There Podcast
Sober Coach & Recovery Advocate
notalltherepod.com | soberchad.com