In this inspiring podcast episode, we dive into the incredible story of James (@make.life.happen), who battled an addiction to alcohol and drugs and found purpose in an unexpected place: his role as a dog dad to two deaf dogs. 

Join us as we explore James' journey through the depths of addiction, witnessing the toll it took on his relationships, health, and overall well-being. Through raw, honest, and unedited conversation, James takes us back to the darkest days of his life, discussing the struggles that led him to hit rock bottom and get the help that he needed. Gradually and with the support of rehabilitation program, community, family, and friends James began to reclaim his life, one day at a time. 

While it wasn’t perfect or linear by any means, he was able to get his life together... he got married to the love of his life, he found a job, and by doing so, was able to stay sober. However, that goes without saying, there were still tough times in his life.

His wife suggested getting a dog, but he continued to say no. But during a really tough time during COVID, he saw a dog’s face on an adoption website and knew that he had to have him... even thought many others would pass him by because he was deaf.

Fast forward to today, James has two deaf rescue dogs and has donated thousands of dollars to animal shelters through the support of his Instagram fans.  Through his dogs, he has found meaning…something in the midst of addiction, he never knew he’d actually find.

On this podcast we talk about...

• the addiction that made him feel trapped


• the habits and routines that have kept him sober for 12 years

• what he'd tell himself as a young adult before becoming trapped in his addiction


• and of course, his two deaf dogs: Poundcake and Milkshake (who have gone viral on Instagram)

Are you Not a Standard?

Be sure to join the community by following www.instagram.com/notastandard_ and ⁠subscribe to this podcast hosted by Michele Christine Weinstein www.instagram.com/michelechristineweinstein.