009 Denny Wilson - Saving Lives in Addiction

Denny Wilson founded FI Community Housing in 1995. Today, it’s Ohio’s largest peer-operated recovery community. Denny’s past informs his present mission in fighting the opioid epidemic: by the age of 25, he was addicted to several drugs, including heroin, crack cocaine, and alcohol. After he went through a 21-day recovery program, Denny was awarded a 14-day stay in a sober house. He came under the wing of a mentor who created a safe space and gave him hope. “He was the world’s first recovery coach, to me,” Denny says. “He asked me one key question. What is it that you want?” Denny tried to give his mentor the answers he felt he had been programmed for—that he wanted to get his life together, get a nice house, a good job, a nice car. But that wasn’t the real issue. Denny explains, “He looked me dead in the eyes and said, ‘No, what do you really want?’ That’s when I broke down and said, you know what, I want my wife and kids back. I want to have a relationship with my mom and my dad and my sisters and my brothers.” Denny tells how this experience led him to create a peer-operated recovery community. “God, for those who believe in him, spoke to me directly and said, ‘This is what I want you doing for the rest of your life: helping other people find stable housing and supportive services, just like you have received.’ That’s been my lifelong mission since.” Connect with Denny: Facebook  Web Site  Instagram Order his new book here: www.FuckHeroinBook.com ++++   This Episode of The My Story Podcast is Sponsored by Furnace Hills Coffee Company Use Coupon Code MyStory to save 25% on your next order from Furnacehillscoffee.com The My Story Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC For professional, award-winning production, visit: www.conjostudios.com Like the music on the show? Check out Drew Davidsen's music at www.drewdavidsen.com Check out our pics on Instagram: @MyStoryPodcast Send us a tweet @MyStory_Podcast And LIKE us on Facebook. We like to be liked.