Stuff that Matters, Episode 7 - Ricky Johnson: Marine Veteran, Public Speaker, Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Ricky Johnson is a five-year Marine veteran and a public speaker. Just last year alone he presented close to 100 sessions. speaking in jails, prisons, schools, churches, with law enforcement, active-duty military and veterans, conferences and treatment facilities. He spoke to our staff and residents at New Hope about a year ago. But his story goes much deeper than that. We talk about his upbringing and childhood, joining the marine core and having a son while he was a senior in his high school, some of the challenges he faced which included addiction and substance abuse, his son taking his own life, the felonies he was convicted for, but also how he was able to turn those low points in his life into turning points for him to make a change. He explains how he was able to mend relationships with loved ones, friends, and even start new relationships like the powerful one he has today with his wife. It’s those relationships and those past experiences that impact, not only where he is, but who he is today. His story, public speaking, social media presence (00:01:43–00:12:32). His upbringing and childhood, joining the marine core and having his son while he was just a senior in high school, and the early challenges he faced (00:12:33–00:24:19). He talks about his addiction and his recovery, dealing with his issues and being honest about his past, openly sharing his story (00:25:44-00:38:54). Why fitness and the gym is so important to his daily routine and incorporating pushup challenges into his speaking sessions (00:38:56-00:42:00). Mending past relationships and the journey with his stepfather, what he put him through and where they are today (00:42:02–00:46:30). His first speaking engagement and some of the more interested people he has spoken to and experiences during his career (00:48:26). The stuff that matters (1:00:52). Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/