Episode 6: Finding your identity in a life without substances with Tommie Runz

In episode 6 of the Stack’n’Days Podcast host Ray interviews runner, digital creator and sobriety advocate Tommie Runz. Tommy shares his story of battling alcoholism, which began in 2002 when he was in high school quickly spiraled out of control. Tommie was soon struggling with his identity and his relationship with alcohol. 

He talks to Ray about the moment he had his first drink and how it felt like freedom from the feelings of not belonging and not being good enough. They also discuss his path to sobriety, the tools that helped him and the value of honesty and vulnerability in his life now. 

Tommie's recovery

In 2017 Tommie chose sobriety. His mother knew something was wrong and encouraged him to talk to a professional. This was a turning point for him. However, it wasn’t easy. Tommie talks about how everything got worse from a mental health standpoint and how he felt like he had to start from scratch with his life. He was worried about how he was going to cope without alcohol and how he was going to find a new identity. 

The journey to running

Tommy was determined to find a new identity and purpose in life. He decided to try running and it was the best decision he ever made. He found a sense of freedom and peace while running and it was the first time in a long time that he felt truly alive. He started to make progress in his recovery and he was able to find a new sense of self. 

Tools that helped Tommie

Running is just one of the tools that helped Tommie in his recovery. He also found support from his family and friends and was able to talk to them about his struggles. 

Therapy became an important piece of the puzzle and Tommie was able to work through some of his issues. He believes that if you take away the substance you still have the same issues so dealing with these issues at the core is key to a complete recovery. 

Finally, Tommy found support from the recovery community and was able to connect with others who were in similar situations. Everyone was white at the first AA meeting he went to, but Tommie started to realize that although they had different experiences to him, their stories were so similar and he felt comfortable in the group. 

Tommie’s info 

Tommie is on ⁠Instagram⁠ or you can visit his ⁠website⁠.