#59 - Tom Fitzsimons: 3,073 Miles in a 100 Day Ultramarathon Across America, Alcoholism Redemption, National Day of Sobriety, Free Wi-Fi in McDonalds & A Cowboy Pastor on a White Horse

Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma

Matt sits down with Tom Fitzsimons, an ultramarathon runner whose awe-inspiring story of resilience and recovery has touched lives worldwide.
From battling stigma and enduring unimaginable physical challenges to running 3,073 miles across the United States in 100 days, Tom shares how running became more than a sport - it became his lifeline and a means to rewrite his identity.
Tom takes us through his remarkable journey, beginning with his struggles with alcohol addiction and a life-changing realisation that running could be his path to freedom.
Tom recounts harrowing yet heartfelt moments, including training for the Marathon des Sables by running in front of his fireplace and navigating the loneliest road in America with nothing but faith, grit, and a dodgy knee.
His journey is punctuated by surreal encounters with strangers, like a Harley-Davidson rider who reminded him to focus on necessities and a cowboy pastor offering a prayer in the desert. Through his candid storytelling, Tom sheds light on the emotional toll of addiction, the power of community, and the importance of addressing trauma as a society.

This episode is a powerful testament to the human spirit, highlighting how one man turned his pain into purpose. Whether he’s challenging the stigma surrounding addiction or advocating for a National Sobriety Day, Tom’s story is a call to action for empathy, understanding, and resilience.

Click here to text our host, Matt, directly!

Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma.
For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️
www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com
If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help.
You can see selected clips from the series on social media: @CGLHull ⬇️
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We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise. Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.

Розділи

1. Tom Fitzsimons (00:00:00)

2. Training for Run Across USA (00:12:29)

3. The Journey of Addiction and Recovery (00:22:49)

4. The Power of Solitude and Redemption (00:32:25)

5. Stories of Hope and Recovery (00:47:26)

6. National Day of Sobriety (00:50:54)

7. The Impact of Trauma and Environment (00:55:43)

8. Running Across America (01:10:09)