Ep. 24: Breaking free from addiction and a cycle of crime and jail

Rickey Brown shares his powerful story of breaking free from an addiction-driven cycle of crime and jail. He graphically describes what it is like to see the world through the eyes of an addict. He shares his journey from childhood on a Mississippi cotton plantation, first use of alcohol at age 5, addiction to cocaine, and being caught in the despair of a seemingly endless cycle of drug use, crime, and jail–until he broke free with the help of God. Rickey was living a double life, on one side a soldier and car salesman, and on the other side caught in the downward spiral of addiction. Now, the thing that nearly killed him helps him help others break free of their own cycles of addiction. Rickey’s story is not just about struggle; it’s also about resilience and hope as he reveals how in breaking free from addiction he gained not only freedom, but respect. He describes how now he and his wife run a reading literacy program for children and youth named iMagicNation and he shares how reading literacy can change lives and elevate futures. Listen to and then share Rickey’s story. It will change lives. 00:00 Introduction: Ricky Brown’s Story 00:19 Early Life and Struggles 02:53 Breaking the Cycle of Addiction 03:40 A New Beginning: Community Outreach 06:32 Childhood Memories and Family 12:55 The Descent into Addiction 20:10 Life in the Military and Continued Struggles 38:15 Criminal Activities and Encounters with the Law 44:40 Turning Point: A Plea for Change 47:54 Introduction to Family Guidance Center 49:23 The Turning Point: Pain and Consequences 52:23 A Journey to Sobriety 54:04 Finding Help and Support 56:03 The Power of Admission and Honesty 58:19 Rebuilding Life and Giving Back 01:21:40 The Importance of Literacy 01:26:25 Celebrating Sobriety and Final Thoughts #justicevoices #addictionrecovery #literacy #literacyforkids iMagicNation website: https://imagicnation.cloud/ Justice Voices: https://justicevoices.org