In this episode of Nothing’s Off the Table, I sit down with Shane — a Long Island native who survived multiple overdoses, a cocaine addiction, alcoholism, gambling insanity, and a life spiraling out of control… before finally surrendering in Alcoholics Anonymous.
His father once told him:
“God’s gonna put His hand on you and you’re gonna be the man He called you to be… or you’re gonna be dead.”
That sentence became prophecy.
From Division 1 lacrosse at Hofstra to cocaine-fueled blackouts, Percocet overdoses, bartending chaos, fistfights, gambling binges, and waking up to watch his landlord die the morning he decided to get sober — this story is raw, graphic, and real.
We talk about:
* Cocaine addiction & overdose stories
* Alcoholism in young professionals
* Gambling addiction & online blackjack insanity
* Growing up with an alcoholic father
* Division 1 athlete pressure & drug culture
* Hitting rock bottom
* The power of AA & 12 Step recovery
* Ego, anger, lust & staying sober in marriage
* Building a foundation in early sobriety
* How to stay sober long term
Shane is now over 5 years sober, married, successful, and living proof that recovery is possible.
If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, cocaine, gambling, pills, or just feel trapped in destructive behavior — this conversation could change your life.
Recovery is possible. Change is possible. And if someone else made it out, so can you. If you need help, reach out. You’re not alone.
🔔 Real stories. Raw comebacks. Nothing’s off the table.
I sit down with people who’ve faced it all: addiction, loss, redemption and came out stronger. These are unfiltered conversations about resilience, recovery, and finding purpose again.
If you’re ready to take the first step in your recovery, reach out to Banyan Treatment Centers — the team I personally believe in. They’ve helped thousands of people rebuild their lives.
👉 Call: [(855) 773-1502]
🌐 Visit: (https://www.banyantreatmentcenter.com/?utm_source=louis_podcast&utm_medium=influencer&utm_campaign=banyan_partnership&utm_content=episode_read)
🎙️ Hosted by Louis Ruggiero
📱 Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/nothingsoffpod/)
📹 TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@nothingsoffpod)
🔗 Linktree: (https://www.linktr.ee/nothingsoffthetable)
Today’s Guest
🎙️ Connect with our guest:
👉 Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/shane_sweeney40)
About the Show
Hosted by Louis Ruggiero, a restaurateur, entrepreneur, and advocate for recovery, Nothing’s Off The Table is where real people share their real stories. From battling addiction to overcoming life’s toughest challenges, Louis and his guests uncover the moments that spark change and fuel unstoppable comebacks. Expect raw honesty, deep insights, and stories that hit home.
Meet Louis
Louis Ruggiero turned his life around after years of struggling with addiction, gambling, and substance abuse. Now, he’s on a mission to amplify voices — from celebrities to everyday survivors — sharing their journeys of grit, growth, and healing.
#AddictionRecovery #WeDoRecover #NothingsofftheTable #LouisRuggiero #RecoverOutLoud #ComebackStories #BanyanTreatmentCenters #BanyanxLouis #BanyanRecovery #BanyanPodcastPartner #RecoveryIsPossible #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryCommunity
---
Disclaimer: The stories and views shared on Nothing’s Off The Table are personal experiences and not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult qualified professionals for guidance on personal matters.
Copyright: © Nothing’s Off The Table with Louis Ruggiero. All rights reserved. Feel free to share or embed episodes with proper credit and a link to our official pages.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices