Tom Fitzsimons: Alcohol & Running 3,073 Miles Across America in Recovery

In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma, Matt sits down with ultramarathon runner Tom Fitzsimons, whose extraordinary journey from alcohol addiction to running 3,073 miles across the United States in 100 days stands as one of the most powerful testaments to human resilience and purpose. Through raw, candid storytelling, Tom shares how running became his lifeline - a way to reclaim identity, process trauma, and rebuild a life grounded in meaning rather than self-destruction. From training in front of a fireplace to surreal encounters on America’s loneliest highways, he reflects on the emotional toll of addiction, the healing power of movement, and the strangers who shaped his path along the way. This conversation challenges stigma, celebrates recovery, and reminds us that profound purpose can be found in even the most painful places. Tom’s story shows how discipline, community, and endurance can transform not only a body, but a life. In this episode: Tom’s journey from alcohol addiction to ultramarathon runner Running 3,073 miles across America in 100 days Trauma, identity loss and the emotional cost of addiction Why running became a source of healing and structure Strangers, community and the unexpected support found along the road Challenging stigma through lived experience and storytelling Purpose, resilience and rebuilding a life through movement Search terms: alcohol recovery UK, ultramarathon recovery stories, running and mental health, lived experience stories, trauma and recovery, endurance and sobriety, substance misuse. Click here to text our host, Matt, directly! 🎧 If this episode connected with you, please subscribe and review. It directly helps us reach more people affected by addiction, trauma and stigma. 🔗 Then share this episode with someone who needs to hear it! Browse the full archive at 👉 www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com Believe in People is a platform for lived experience, recovery insight and honest conversation. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or working on the frontline, this podcast exists to inform, challenge stigma and inspire change. If you or someone you know needs support with drugs, alcohol, housing, domestic abuse, or mental and physical wellbeing, free and confidential help is available via Change Grow Live: 📩 Contact: [email protected] 🎵 Music: “Jonathan Tortoise” - Christopher Tait (Belle Ghoul / Electric Six) Listen & Subscribe: Spotify | Apple Podcasts 🎙️ Facilitator: Matthew Butler 🎛️ Producer: Robbie Lawson 🏢 Network: ReNew