

479 | The Gift of Relapse with Nate Larkin
25 snips Sep 11, 2025
In this engaging discussion, guest Alec Gibson, a member of the Samson Society and recovery advocate, joins host Nate Larkin, an author and former pastor. They dive into the complexities of relapse, exploring triggers and the emotional landscape that surrounds it. Nate shares his own experiences, revealing how he navigated the slippery slope of letting safeguards slip and the importance of community support. The conversation emphasizes vulnerability, honesty, and the profound impact of sharing struggles within a supportive network.
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Relapse Builds Gradually
- Relapse rarely appears out of nowhere; it grows from small shifts like forgetting priorities and relaxing safeguards.
- Nate realized years of letting priorities slip and 'senioritis' set the stage for his relapse.
Isolation Weakens Safeguards
- Social isolation and convenience (like traveling alone or phone meetings) make evasion of truth easier.
- Nate linked COVID, moving, and leaving his walking community to increased secrecy and ambivalence.
The Florida Trip Trigger
- Nate described driving to Florida, buying beers, and entering a massage parlor after rationalizing his pain.
- He woke up full of regret and panic, recognizing the relapse and its shame.