The High Performance Podcast E199 - Matt Willis: How addiction nearly destroyed my life
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Jun 25, 2023 Matt Willis, co-founder of Busted, shares his profound journey through addiction and recovery. He discusses the taboo surrounding addiction and the importance of open conversations about it. Reflecting on childhood trauma and the spirals of shame, he emphasizes the pivotal role his family played in his healing. Matt also reveals how becoming a father sparked his commitment to recovery and self-discovery. The conversation touches on identity, the quest for authenticity, and transformative insights into responsibility and hope.
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Early Addiction
- Matt Willis started using drugs and drinking heavily around age 12, seeking escape from an unhappy home life.
- He aimed to get "as fucked up as possible" without realizing his friends weren't using as heavily.
Childhood Ghosts
- Unresolved childhood trauma can manifest as shame and guilt in adulthood.
- Matt Willis felt guilt over his brother leaving home and his own role in the family dynamics.
Shame Cycle
- Matt Willis carried guilt and shame from his childhood, fueling his addictive behaviors.
- This created a cycle where shame led to substance abuse, which then led to more shame.