Hell Has an Exit Podcast with Bryan Alzate Episode 162: "Author of “How to Breathe While Suffocating” Bruce W. Brackett
10 snips
Apr 16, 2024 
In this engaging conversation, Bruce W. Brackett, a memoirist and motivational speaker, shares his inspiring journey from addiction and trauma to empowerment. He reflects on his challenging childhood, experiences with bullying, and finding solace in theater. Bruce candidly discusses his battle with substance abuse, a life-changing HIV diagnosis, and how art became a tool for recovery. With his upcoming memoir, How to Breathe While Suffocating, he aims to inspire others in their own journeys, proving that resilience and hope can triumph over adversity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Adoption Changed His Trajectory
- Bruce W. Brackett recounts growing up in rural Montana, dressing in dresses and being labeled different by doctors and neighbors.
- His adoptive parents' support saved him from much deeper harms and later enabled survival through recovery.
Theater As A Lifeline
- Bruce found theater at eight and it became a safe space where he could escape and perform other identities.
- Theater provided structure and a lifeline away from bullying, sparking his long-term passion for performance.
Running Away Spiraled Into Exploitation
- At 16 Bruce ran away, wandered U.S. cities, and sought acceptance in gay nightlife, which exposed him to exploitation and drugs.
- He reintroduced himself to meth in Chicago and later entered shelters, juvenile detention, and group homes before returning to therapy.
