In this heart-wrenching and inspiring episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Gabe Cohen, a man whose journey through addiction and multiple incarcerations has led him to become a passionate advocate for recovery.Â
Gabe shares his raw and personal experiences, from getting arrested at 15 for a shooting incident and grappling with cocaine addiction, to facing homelessness and numerous stints in prison.Â
He talks about hitting rock bottom when a near-fatal health crisis became a turning point, leading him to a path of recovery and service. Gabe is now the founder of Discovery Cafe and author of ‘The Peer Recovery Community Organization,’ where he demonstrates how one’s past does not have to define their future.Â
Tune in to hear Gabe’s incredible story of resilience, transformation, and his unwavering commitment to helping others navigate their own recovery journeys.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the stand or beliefs of the host or the podcast. We aim to provide a diverse range of perspectives and ideas, fostering open and respectful discussions. We encourage critical thinking and forming your own conclusions. Enjoy the show!
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About Gabe Cohen
Gabe Cohen is a powerful example of what it means to transform pain into purpose. After surviving years of homelessness and multiple incarcerations, Gabe made the decision to rewrite his story — not just for himself, but for others still fighting their way out. Today, he is the founder of Discovery Cafe, a community hub rooted in recovery, empowerment, and connection. Gabe is also the author of The Peer Recovery Community Organization: How to Leverage Your Life Experience and Create a New Legacy, a guide for turning lived experience into lasting impact.
Follow Gabe’s work at gabecohen.me, connect with him on Instagram @peer_recovery_expert, check out his book on Amazon, and learn more about his mission at discoverycafe.org.
Show Notes
- 00:00 Introduction and Personal Struggles
- 00:58 The Beginning End Podcast Introduction
- 01:29 Guest Introduction: Gabe Cohen
- 06:30 Gabe’s Early Life and Struggles
- 09:05 First Encounter with Law Enforcement
- 11:07 Addiction and Moving to Colorado
- 16:39 Recovery Attempts and Setbacks
- 19:05 Krav Maga and New Beginnings
- 22:02 Struggles with Relapse
- 23:35 Working in Security and Justifying Addiction
- 24:53 Recover Brand Promotion
- 25:49 A Life-Changing Hospitalization
- 26:58 A Commitment to Change
- 28:45 Rebuilding Through Service
- 32:47 Starting a Nonprofit During COVID
- 38:10 Expanding the Mission
- 45:43 Reflecting on the Journey
- 49:15 Final Thoughts and Advice
For more incredible and inspiring stories of those who have overcome alcoholism and addiction, tune in to the next episodes of The Begin Again Podcast through:
