In this episode, we are joined by Daniel Ritchie, a former five-time Mixed Martial Arts Champion whose life took a dramatic turn due to addiction to opiate pain medication, leading to heroin and fentanyl dependency. Daniel's journey into the depths of addiction began with traumatic experiences in his early teens, compounded by further trauma during his years of active addiction, making recovery seem like an unattainable goal. However, after surviving multiple overdoses and a life-threatening incident, Daniel found his path to recovery on November 1, 2016.His remarkable turnaround led him to a pioneering role at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he became their first Peer Recovery Specialist. In this capacity, Daniel worked with over 2,000 patients, implementing innovative bedside intervention techniques he developed and helping to establish a new level of care specifically designed for individuals battling addiction.Today, Daniel is not only a voice for recovery but also a published writer, co-author, community activist, and motivational speaker. He openly shares his story to encourage others to seek the help they need, drawing from his deep well of personal and professional experience. He continues his advocacy and support work at the Ohio Community Health Recovery Center, committed to aiding those in need. Daniel is also a devoted father to a five-year-old daughter, further enriching his life and purpose.Join us as Daniel shares his powerful narrative of downfall, redemption, and transformation, providing hope and practical advice for anyone touched by the challenge of addiction.

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If you or anyone you know is facing a mental health and/or substance abuse disorders, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SAMHSA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service.
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DISCLAIMER: This was recorded PRIOR to Daniel starring in A&E's 60 Days In.