#19 Addiction, Prison, and Peace: Run That Rehab - Dennis Espiritu

In this raw and powerful episode, Luke sits down with Dennis Espiritu, the man behind @runthatrehab, to unpack a life once ruled by heroin, crime, and prison, and how he turned it all around.

Dennis shares openly about growing up feeling isolated, the lure of belonging that led to drugs and street life, and the harsh realities of addiction and jail time. He speaks candidly about stabbing someone, battling withdrawal, the loop of detox attempts, and what finally made rehab stick after 25 years.

But this is also a story about redemption, structure, and self-worth. Dennis breaks down the internal shift it took to rebuild his life, the routines that saved him, and how Run That Rehab is now offering real community and tools for others seeking recovery.

This episode is a raw reminder that peace can feel foreign at first, but it’s worth fighting for.

Key takeaways:

• Addiction was rooted in early isolation and the search for belonging
• Detox alone failed without a structured plan and replacement habits
• Prison reinforced connection and brotherhood, making recovery harder after release
• Identity shift and daily discipline were essential for lasting recovery
• Purpose and accountability (e.g. Run That Rehab) became anchors for change

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Curious AF is a podcast for people who want more out of life than just ticking boxes. Hosted by Luke Biermann, entrepreneur, father of three, and relentless explorer of human potential, the show dives deep into the conversations that matter.

From endurance sports and entrepreneurship to psychedelics, parenting, spirituality, and self-discovery, Curious AF explores how we can live with greater purpose, connection, and fulfilment.

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