Show notes
Today's story is one of heartbreak, hope, and ultimately, redemption. Hit play and get ready for another powerful episode that will inspire and remind you that no matter how dark things may seem, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow.
In this episode, we get to know Josh Stone, a 41-year-old father, grandfather, and recovering addict. Josh has faced numerous challenges throughout his life, starting with a tumultuous childhood being raised by a single mom who worked three jobs and served as a prison guard. He didn't meet his father, a lifelong drug trafficker, until he was seven or eight years old.
Josh recounts the harrowing memory of witnessing his dad chase his mom out the front door with a knife, setting the stage for a turbulent life ahead. Despite being brought up in the church by his grandparents, Josh started following in his father's footsteps as early as seventh grade, when he began experimenting with drugs and eventually spiraling into addiction.
Throughout his adult life, Josh has faced multiple stints in jail and battled addiction for over 25 years on and off. He has held various jobs, ranging from working in restaurants and factories to construction and becoming an OTR semi-truck driver. Josh's journey with faith has been a complicated one, as he has known the Lord on a deep level for 17 years, all the while struggling with addiction and compulsive behaviors.
In the episode, Josh shares how his most recent battle with addiction took a significant toll on him - physically, emotionally, and spiritually. He talks about the heart-wrenching experience of watching friends and loved ones die from overdosing on drugs like fentanyl and heroin, and seeing others end up in prison - many of whom he once dealt drugs to or with. Josh himself has overdosed twice and believes that he is alive today because God wants to use his story to help others.
After putting himself through detox and a six-month faith-based drug rehab program, Josh has been sober for 11 months. He acknowledges that the road to recovery is an uphill battle and a daily struggle, but he remains committed to walking that path. His heart's desire is to be surrounded by others who are also on the journey to recovery.
Josh's story serves as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the potential for redemption. From heartbreak and sadness to hope and empowerment, this episode of Warriors Unmasked is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration or a deeper understanding of the complexities of addiction!
LINKS:
Episode Minute By Minute:
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0:02 What's inside today's episode
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3:00 Welcome and introduction of Josh Stone
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4:38 The impact, memories and traumas from Josh's father
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12:33 Josh's path begins to follow his father's and leads to homelessness and addictions
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22:17 How josh's children, grandchild motivate him to stay sober
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28:32 What has 11 months of rehab looked like for Josh
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34:35 Others often see qualities in us that we don't see in ourselves
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40:15 What Josh is dreaming about in 2023 and beyond
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45:12 If you have ever thought, why me? Because it's about who you can reach
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50:18 Josh's last piece of advice to someone broken and hurting
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