Gabe Cohen’s journey from addiction and prison to founding Discovery Cafe inspires on Sober.Buzz Ep. 12, produced by The NXC Podcast Network. Watch at https://youtu.be/_5z7eye01nw for recovery tips. Call 988 for crisis support.
Gabe Cohen’s Story: From Rock Bottom to Recovery Leader on Sober.Buzz
Hey, Sober.Buzz fam! Episode 12, produced by The NXC Podcast Network, is a must-listen, featuring Gabe Cohen’s incredible journey from addiction to leading Discovery Cafe. Hosted by Joshua and Heidi Case, this episode dives deep into resilience, recovery, and second chances. Check it out at https://youtu.be/_5z7eye01nw!
A Rough Start on Long Island
Gabe grew up in a middle-class Long Island suburb, but childhood trauma flipped his world upside down. By 13, he was using drugs, and by 15, cocaine had a grip on him. “I fell in love with it,” he says, reflecting on how addiction led to arrests and family fallout.
The Vicious Cycle of Recidivism
Gabe’s story hits hard when he talks about the cycle of addiction and incarceration. From 1998 to 2011, he was in and out of prison seven times, often released homeless. “You get out with a piece of paper… no money, no job,” he shares. It’s a raw look at how the system can trap people.
Finding Hope in 2011
At 40, Gabe hit a turning point. Moving to Rifle, Colorado, to reconnect with his sons, he leaned into AA, counseling, and Krav Maga. Though relapses happened, his persistence paid off, showing us it’s never too late to start over.
Building Discovery Cafe
Gabe saw a gap in rural recovery resources and founded Discovery Cafe, a peer-based support hub. Now in jails, prisons, and sober living homes, it’s helping justice-involved men find purpose. His story proves community can be a game-changer in recovery.
Krav Maga: A Path to Confidence
Gabe’s love for Krav Maga, a hardcore self-defense system, gave him a new sense of self-worth. Earning three black belts and teaching worldwide, he turned pain into purpose. It’s a reminder that new skills can spark transformation.
Tips for Your Recovery Journey
Gabe’s story offers practical takeaways: seek community support, embrace new challenges like fitness or hobbies, and don’t give up after a setback. Recovery isn’t linear, but persistence is key.
Join the Sober.Buzz Community
Watch Gabe’s episode at https://youtu.be/_5z7eye01nw and share your thoughts on X. If you’re struggling, call 988 for immediate help or explore local resources like Discovery Cafe. Let’s keep spreading the good buzz together!
