The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett

Macklemore: How I Destroyed My Addiction & Overcame My Darkest Times

May 4, 2023

In a candid conversation, Macklemore, the Grammy-winning rapper, opens up about his tumultuous journey with addiction and recovery, sharing raw insights from his battles. He discusses the importance of having a support system and the difference between short-term desires and long-term goals. Macklemore also reflects on how his personal struggles inspire his music and the double-edged nature of social media in today's world. He emphasizes the power of authenticity in both life and art, offering heartfelt advice on embracing vulnerability.

01:21:29

Episode guests

Macklemore

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Meaning over Happiness

00:58

Trading in Long-Term Goals for Short-Term Desires

00:41

The Toxicity of Addiction and Gaslighting in Relationships

00:51

Intro

1min

The Soundtrack of My Life

4min

Facing Addiction: A Journey of Struggles and Recovery

19min

Finding Purpose in Pain

8min

Anthems of Change and Authenticity

7min

Enhancing Connections and Health: Video Conferencing and Superfoods

2min

Navigating Social Media and Personal Growth

22min

Navigating Authenticity and Family Connections

16min

In this new episode Steven sits down with the American rapper and songwriter Macklemore.

Ben Haggerty adopted the stage name of Macklemore when he began rapping at the age of 14, at the same time he was beginning his struggle with substance abuse. Ben released his debut album, ‘The Language of My World’, in 2005. However, his struggles with addiction threaten to halt his musical career and he entered rehab in 2008. He started collaborating with the producer Ryan Lewis in 2009 and the pair released their album, ‘The Heist’, in 2012. This album went on to win 4 Grammy Awards and become platinum certified. Since 2017, Ben has focused on his solo career, releasing the album ‘Gemini’ and launching his golf-inspired clothing brand Bogey Boys in 2021. He has just released his third solo album, ‘Ben’.

In this conversation Ben and Steven discuss topics, such as: