I AM REDEMPTION - PODCAST

Manny Pelaez—San Antonio mayoral candidate and city councilman—joins Shawn Livingston on the I Am Redemption podcast for a real, no-holds-barred conversation.They tackle the fentanyl epidemic in schools, addiction, mental health struggles, the controversial approach to panhandling, and why local politics matter now more than ever. Manny also shares his plan to partner with Shawn to fight back against the crises hitting San Antonio.

He nearly died from alcohol. Then he picked up a paintbrush. In this raw and unfiltered episode of I Am Redemption, Austin muralist and speaker Jon McKenzie shares the brutally honest truth about hitting rock bottom, blacking out in alleys, and waking up with his heart giving out. From near death to live art shows and massive murals, Jon's story proves that recovery is messy, powerful—and f***ing beautiful.We talk addiction, health scares, hilarious stories from his darkest days, and how creating art became the heartbeat of his comeback. This is redemption, with grit.

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Mike “Stuboy” was a meth-fueled hurricane. Joey “The Moron” was dumb enough to stick around and watch it all burn. Now? They're clean, unfiltered, and co-hosting one of the wildest recovery podcasts out there: 2 Addicts & A Moron. In this brutally honest and darkly hilarious episode of I Am Redemption, Joey shares what it was like watching his best friend rot from the inside out—then somehow crawl out of the gutter, sober up, and turn his chaos into comedy. Mike lays out exactly what rock bottom felt like (hint: it's darker than you think) and the savage truth of what it took to get out.This ain't your grandma's recovery story. No sugarcoating. No sad piano music. Just two former trainwrecks proving that you can be a mess, get clean, and still be funny as hell.⚠️ Viewer discretion advised: foul language, real talk, and jokes that might get us canceled. Subscribe if you're into redemption arcs, raw recovery, and laughing through the pain.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shawn and Xande first crossed paths at this year's Austin Marathon, where Xande took home a huge prize. Now, they're teaming up to bridge the worlds of Jiu-Jitsu and endurance running, proving that mental toughness transcends sports.In this episode, Xande drops game-changing wisdom on overcoming adversity, the mindset of a champion, and his vision for the future of martial arts and endurance sports...Jog Jitsu coming SOON! lol. Whether you're a fighter, a runner, or someone striving for redemption, this episode is packed with inspiration.Shawn Livingston's journey is one of pain, perseverance, and ultimate redemption. A combat veteran, he found himself battling heroin addiction after an injury left him struggling to cope. His darkest moments nearly consumed him, but through running, he found a way to reclaim his life.His story was captured in the powerful documentary 100 Miles to Redemption, which follows his fight to overcome addiction, rebuild the relationship with his family, and push his limits in an ultra-endurance race. Today, his journey is inspiring thousands, proving that no matter how far you fall, redemption is possible.

Jacob Kline (J-Kline) is living proof that you can come back from the darkest depths. Once trapped in the cycle of fentanyl addiction, overdosing FIVE times in a row, Jacob has transformed his pain into purpose. Now a rising hip-hop artist and a relentless force in the recovery world, he's taking his story to the stage, performing live, coaching others out of addiction, and proving that redemption is real.

Part 2 of our conversation with the legendary Radio Man, he's taking us deep into the incredible journey! From growing up in Brooklyn and his childhood struggles to the origin of his iconic love for his bike, this episode is packed with heartfelt and jaw-dropping storiesHe also shares his unforgettable Hollywood experiences—playing a pimp alongside Tobey Maguire in Spider-Man, receiving a watch from James Bond himself, and the incredible generosity of A-listers like George Clooney, Christian Bale, and Keanu Reeves.00:00 – Intro – Recap of Part 1 & What's Coming Up 02:15 – Growing Up in Brooklyn – Family Life & Childhood Struggles 08:30 – How His Love for Bikes Began – The Story Behind His Iconic Bicycle 14:45 – Landing a Role in Spider-Man – Playing a Pimp Alongside Tobey Maguire 20:10 – A Gift from 007 – How James Bond Himself Gave Him a Watch He Still Carries 25:30 – The Generosity of Hollywood A-Listers – Stories About George Clooney, Christian Bale & Keanu Reeves 32:00 – Reflections on His Journey – Lessons, Gratitude, & What's Next for Radio 38:00 – Radio Man Out!

Chef Dan Kennedy exploded during quarantine, serving up viral food content — but behind the scenes, he was waging war on his own mind. In this raw and intense episode of I Am Redemption, Dan opens up for the first time about his brutal fight with severe anxiety and depression, growing up in gritty Philadelphia, and how therapy and running became his lifelines. He talks about his love for hip-hop, supporting his wife through her recovery, and turning personal chaos into purpose.

Frank Parisi makes his explosive return to I Am Redemption for a second appearance, and he's got a lot to say. In this unfiltered conversation, Frank shares his incredible journey—from growing up in the gritty streets of New York City, surrounded by organized crime, to surviving substance abuse, and ultimately receiving a life-saving heart transplant. Now, as a best-selling author of Embrace Abundance, Frank is on a mission to inspire others through his powerful story of survival and redemption.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Former US Airman Trip O'Connell takes us the ride of how the legendary Mr. Make-Go-Boom came to be! From blowing shi!t up for the military, to star-studded club scenes of Vegas and LA. He's seen it all — rubbing elbows with Hollywood's biggest names, and seeing some WILD stuff along the way. But now, he's on a mission to help rebuild communities by fostering unity. With a unapologetic approach, Trip, and the team More Perfect Union, aim to tear down the old systems and lay a new foundation, one brick at a time. Don't miss out, electrifying conversation, reinvention, and maybe a couple Hollywood secrets you won't hear anywhere else.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Get ready for an insane ride with Alexis Royal on I Am Redemption! From living the high-stakes, dangerous world of a gangster to being trapped in the claws of meth, Alexis has seen it all. But her story is far from over. With RAW determination, and the love of her son, she fought back against the odds and transformed into a successful business woman and powerhouse. Watch as Alexis bares it all—her rise, her fall, and the redemption that turned her life into a true success story. SHE is the definition of strength, grit, and relentless drive! A must-watch for anyone ready for a roadmap on how to TAKE YOUR LIFE BACK!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In today's eye--poppier episode of I Am Redemption, Damian Owl shares his shocking journey from the depths of addiction and chronic relapses to smashing ultra marathons and bulking up with over 50lbs of muscle!

Trip Ilson didn't just survive addiction, he came back and DESTROYED his limits. Host of the Ain't Dead Yet podcast and a man in recovery from alcohol and substance abuse, Trip just CONQUERED his first brutal 100-mile ultra-marathon. This isn't just some "comeback" story. In this raw and sckack ya in the mouth episode of I Am Redemption, Trip takes you deep into his darkest battles, his relentless fight for sobriety, and the savage mindset it took to grind out 100 miles. If you're ready for a story of pain, grit, and ultimate redemption, this is the episode you probably should NOT missHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

You won't believe Amy Lauren's story adopted, hit by a car and told she'd never walk again, trapped in the cycle of hardcore substance abuse, and even by a group of men against her will for days with others. Against all odds, she turned her life around to become a marathon runner and nurse, using her experiences to save others' lives.This gripping episode of I Am Redemption dives deep into her unimaginable struggles and ultimate triumph. Amy shares how she fought back from rock bottom to become an unstoppable force of resilience and hope.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

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Drew Haas, the $1 million champion of Outlast Season 2 on Netflix, joins the I Am Redemption podcast to share his incredible story of survival, strategy, and personal transformation. From the brutal Alaskan wilderness to life after the win. In this powerful episode, Drew Haas opens up about more than just his Outlast victory. He shares his personal experience of supporting a family member battling addiction and alcoholism, offering a raw and heartfelt perspective on the challenges families face. Drew also reveals deeply personal stories and insights he's never shared publicly before, making this conversation truly one-of-a-kind. Don't miss this inspiring and vulnerable look into Drew's journey of survival and redemption.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

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Transformative conversation is what we are all about here at I Am Redemption! Jude Hickey, a true Austin icon and former Executive Director of Austin YMCA, joins Shawn Livingston to shed light on the LGBTQ+ experience and educate us all. With years of dedication to building community and bringing people together, Jude's perspective is one you won't want to miss. How has someone impacted your understanding of the LGBTQ+ community?

This week host Shawn Livingston sits down with renowned bodybuilding coach Austin Stout. Known for his expertise in fitness, nutrition, and mindset, Austin shares his journey of transformation and the powerful lessons he's learned while helping others unlock their full potential. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, an aspiring bodybuilder, or simply seeking motivation, this episode got us ready to put in work and ready to conquer some goals!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week, it's time we hear from the family. Meet Beth Cunningham, Through her own personal experience, having a child who suffered many years of addiction, Beth is able to provide a rare glimpse into the other side of recovery, the families. Beth now works to support families in finding treatment and recovery recommendations, guidance through the process, and continued support along the wayHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week on I Am Redemption as we sit down with Nicholas Ceppaglia, a rising comedian making waves at the world-famous Comedy Mothership in Austin, TX. Nicholas shares his journey through the ups and downs of life, the grind of stand-up comedy, and what it's like working in one of the most iconic comedy venues in the world. From finding his voice on stage to embracing redemption in his personal life, this episode is filled with raw honesty, humor, and inspiration. Don't miss this deep dive into the mind of a comic who's turning struggles into punchlines and laughter into healingHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

As the lead vocalist of the heavy metal group Realms of Death, and a bodybuilder, Sam Vaughn tells us all about his journey through the depths of mental health, suicide attempts, found him at rock bottom, when a passion for the gym and stepping on stage would lead him to promise!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Bringing a unique level of experience and scientific validation to her work, Dr. Abbie Maroño is both a scientist and a practitioner in the field of human behavior. In 2022, Abbie was awarded an O-1 visa for extraordinary abilities in the sciences. As such, the United States Department of State recognized Dr. Abbie's international acclaim and record of extraordinary achievements in the sciences as placing her in the top 1% of her field.Having completed her PhD in Psychology and Behavior analysis , Abbie became a Professor of Psychology at academic institutions by the age of 23. Abbie is now the Director of Education at Social-Engineer, LLC, and specializes in behavior analysis, elicitation, and the psychological mechanisms underpinning decision makingHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Meet two of the most motivating and fun loving twins in the fitness industry; the MEEF twins, Sean and Zach. Natural bodybuilders, competitive eaters, rappers, online personalities, there's not much these talented brothers can't do. With their inspirational mission of MEEF Motivating Everyone to Enjoy Fitness, we dive deep to learn what makes these two guys so motivated and positive! An uplifting episode if there ever was one!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

From the depths of heroin and crack addiction, facing prison time after prison time, to rising as a world-renowned tattoo artist, Carlos Truan's story is nothing short of brutal redemption. Hear the hardcore truth of his battle for freedom and purpose, this week on the I Am Redemption podcast with host, Shawn Livingston.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Live and on location, get ready for a no-holds-barred conversation with Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer on the I Am Redemption podcast. Dakota dives deep into his intense experiences on the battlefield, confronting brutal realities, and his fight to overcome the mental battles that followed. This is not your typical interview—it's a raw, unfiltered look into the mind of a warrior who's lived through hell and came out swinging. If you're looking for truth, grit, and inspiration, this episode deliversHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Today Shawn is joined in the I Am Redemption studio by Dr. Tania Glenn. She is an author and one of the leading national clinicians in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dr. Glenn has embedded herself with boots on ground to military and first responders to help better understand and treat these brave men and woman.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Today Shawn is joined in studio by Kenneth Anderlitch, an ultrarunner from Austin, Texas, who recently completed an incredible feat of endurance by running across the entire state of Texas. The journey span 850 miles and took Anderlitch 19 days to complete. Ken did so to shine awareness and help raise money for those suffering from addiction and mental health. Joined are the gentleman who helped crew him for the amazing accomplishment.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

On this podcast Dan Lennon visits the studio to discuss years of suffering, constant misdiagnosis from doctors. He would find his answers from a stranger on an online support group. Plagued with the mysterious Lyme disease, Dan has been able to persevere through the power of running and fitness, while also discovering the healing power of community and the often times misunderstood world of psychedelics.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jimmy House is a hybrid athlete and coach specializing in sport specific strength & conditioning, mobility/flexibility, body transformations, injury prevention, powerlifting and general fitness. Jimmy is a current professional wrestler who is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a Former Pro Natural Bodybuilder, a former national and world record holder in powerlifting and strict curl Jimmy has been featured speaking about his story and his coaching skill set on notable podcasts/youtube channels including Mark Bell, Flex Lewis, Renaissance Periodization, Barbell Brigade, Coach Eugene Teo, Phil Daru and Jonni Shreve. He has also traveled all over the country to learn from the best in the industry such as Dr. Mike Israetel, Phil Daru, Knees Over Toes Guy and Movement by David and applies many of the concepts learned from these world class coaches with his clients today.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Today Shawn welcomes a star high school athlete who would see it all come crashing down due to alcoholism and an addiction to pharmaceuticals. Nick Borges comes on the pod to tell his story of the courageous climb out of that world and his journey to become a masters level clinician using both education and personal experience to help others.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Today on the pod Shawn welcomes former member of the US Air Force Laurel Tracy. Her brave and courageous journey through sexual assault and addiction has found Laurel as a beacon of inspiration for all in Austin's recovery community. Come listen to her story of struggle and how she continues to bring it all around!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leonel “Leo” Manzano, a highly decorated track star representing the United States in six world championships sits down with Shawn in the studio! Leo has etched his legacy with a finishing kick that embodies resilience and determination. The most decorated athlete in University of Texas Track & Field history, UT Hall of Honor recipient, 5 NCAA National titles, and Olympic Silver medalist, Leo is an amazing and compelling athlete worth listening to!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Today Shawn welcomes friend in recovery Peter Piraino. From helping run night clubs and selling cocaine in New York City at the age of 16, unhealthy living and cocaine addiction would find Peter at his rock bottom, when they unexpected birth of his son and family support would help lead him to his salvation, present day Peter's experience has led him to being a clinician and CEO helping clients gain access to the treatment they need!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shawn sits down with this coming year's La Reina Linda XI, Erica La Hood, an executive in San Antonio who has accepted a year long reign of highlighting the needs of educators in San Antonio and raising money for student scholarships throughout the city. Join us as we learn about her incredible journey to Fiesta 2025!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Today Shawn sits down with Rey Feo 76 of San Antonio Fiesta fame to discuss his heartfelt dedication to bridging the education gap, believing that every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. Through scholarships and support, we aim to pave the way for a brighter tomorrow and build a community where education is accessible to all.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week Shawn welcomes good friend and friend in recovery, Mike Smeltzer of the Last Resort treatment center. Mike suffered from heroin addiction, years of inability to get sober, when a shotgun prayer and arrest that he would realize later saved his life, coping with the loss of his best friend, his father. Now Mike has turned the corner and lives for his kids and wife using his experience to help those addicts and alcoholics who still suffer!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shawn welcomes the owner of Break Your Loop support bracelets, Meliza Carrion as she continues her mission to help empower woman to reach their fullest potential. Meliza hopes that by wearing our Loops bracelets, we remind ourselves daily of our strength, resilience, and capacity for growth. Dive in to more than just bracelets for stories of struggle, doubt and resilience! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us as Shawn invites IFBB Pro bodybuilder and lifestyle coach and trainer Julia Rene on the pod to talk fitness, fitness journeys, the struggle with social and overcoming past obstacles to become who you always were meant to become! Julia has amassed over 345 thousand followers on Instagram using a combination of tips, lifestyle showcasing, humor and muscle! A motivating episode if there ever was one! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shawn invites fellow runners to the pod to discuss their chance meetings, personal growth and Jesus Baeza overcoming visual impairment to finish marathons and continue to advocate for accessibility everywhere!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us as Shawn sits down with a great friend in recovery, Russell Matthews. Russell is an artist of out Austin, Texas and has one of the most wild rises back to sobriety of any guest! Tune in, check him out!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shawn heads to downtown San Antonio to talk to Texas-native Chef Jason Dady inside his beautiful restaurant Range. Jason has explored the culinary scene at large and goes beyond the role of restaurant owner and executive chef, by applying familial values to create tight-knit bonds with members of his team and residents of the San Antonio community. As the owner of a multitude of restaurants and food services, Jason has garnered a laundry list of accomplishments. Come watch and listen to see what drives him to continue to innovate in the space and the struggles he's had to overcome.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week Shawn welcomes Dr. Abbie Maroño who brings a unique level of experience and scientific validation to her work. Dr. Marono is both a scientist and a practitioner in the field of human behavior. In 2022, Abbie was awarded an O-1 visa for extraordinary abilities in the sciences. As such, the United States Department of State recognized Dr. Abbie's international acclaim and record of extraordinary achievements in the sciences as placing her in the top 1% of her field. Let's get into the details about human behavior, Dr. Marono's insights on it and on her own struggles which she opens up about for the first time on a podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week Shawn hosts fellow runner and chef, Philip Speer of Austin, Texas. Philip Speer has built an impressive career, has been nominated for four James Beard Foundation Awards in the esteemed Outstanding Pastry Chef category and has received abundant recognition from major publications such as the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, GQ Magazine, Texas Monthly, Bon Appetit, and many more. His story includes addiction, to which he has made a profound recovery and since gained unexpected purpose. Tune in to hear more about his many accomplishments, his arrest and his future!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week Shawn hosts the passionate Frank Parisi. A native of little Italy In Manhattan, his father and family were a part of organized crime and the mafia. Frank became and overcome an opiate addiction and a heart transplant to become an author with the newly released book “Embrace Abundance - A journey through Faith, Family, Health, Hustle & Purpose for a life beyond limits”. A wild listen to say the least!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week's guest is Erica Blue, the CEO of Austin Sunshine Camps. Everyday she helps change the lives of kids today. Erica grew up in abusive household with alcoholic father who was in and out of prison. A kind gesture from a friends father sent her to summer camp for the first time and it completely changed her world view, leading to what she does now. Having just met Shawn a few weeks prior to the episode, all involved can proudly say this was a powerful meeting of the minds as they discuss what it means to remove yourself from bad situations and use that circumstance to help others. Inspirational and engaging! Listen now!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shawn sits down with friend and Navy veteran Pat McGregor of Austin, Texas. Pat lost his brother tragically to veteran suicide and now spends his time raising money for veteran suicide awareness. His goals are balanced with being a running coach. Listen close to this one! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shawn sits down with long time friend Brandon Parks. Brandon is a get after it kind of guy and we get to hear all about their relationship, getting in the gym, women, addiction, recovery and more!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shawn sits down with professional pain-free fitness specialist and health coach @clairebays to discuss all aspects of her life including her sober journey and current podcast journey as host of her own show Conversations with Claire. Claire brings her fun infectious personality to the podcast, keeping things fun and light and informative!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shawn invites Tank Girl on the pod! They discuss everything and anything! Tank Girl is an Austin based and badass tattoo artist, a recovered heroin addict and alcoholic. These days she expresses herself through her trade and she practices Shibari Japanese bondage. Strap in for this one!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.