What if you did everything ‘right’ – good family, college degree, steady job – yet still found yourself spiraling into addiction? This week, Zach Dawson and guest co-host Sierra Bolling sit down with Matt Heskett as he shares his gripping journey from a seemingly normal upbringing to the depths of opioid and heroin addiction.
Matt’s story is a raw look at how quickly things can unravel, the lies we tell ourselves, and the courage it takes to finally ask for help.
In this episode, Matt opens up about the first prescription that changed everything, the dangerous rationalizations that let his addiction grow, and the pain of losing trust with family and lifelong friends.
You’ll hear about the interventions that nearly broke him, the small moments of grace from unexpected places -including a pivotal encounter with law enforcement – and how hitting bottom finally led him to lasting recovery.
Zach and Sierra dig deep into the emotional and mental struggles behind substance use, why quick detoxes don’t work, and the importance of real community support.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, whether you think you ‘fit the mold’ or not, this conversation is for you. Matt’s story proves that recovery is possible no matter where you start.
Reach out to us or someone you trust if you need help. You’re not alone, and there’s a way out.

About Bare Knuckle Recovery
Tommy and Nate have been bareknuckle brawling with this disease known as addiction. As addicts in recovery, they are sharing their experiences and advice to recovering addicts all over the world. Tommy and Nate are both counselors at Fort Wayne Recovery, a drug and alcohol treatment center in Fort Wayne, IN as well as at Allendale Treatment, a detox center in Fort Wayne. Bare Knuckle Recovery is their online vlog dedicated to free educational content about addiction for individuals and their families who struggle with addiction all over the world.











