Summary of Shawn Ryan Show Episode #178: Ben Owen - Veteran’s Escape from Addiction & Survival in America’s Most Violent Streets
Overview
In episode #178 of the Shawn Ryan Show, host Shawn Ryan engages in a profound and candid conversation with Ben Owen, an infantry veteran, father of eight, and the founder of We Fight Monsters and Flanders Fields. Ben recounts his tumultuous journey from a troubled youth grappling with addiction to becoming a beacon of hope in some of America’s most violent neighborhoods. His story is one of resilience, transformation, and unwavering dedication to combating opiate addiction and human trafficking.
Early Life and Struggles
Ben Owen's early years were marked by instability. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, he moved across 14 states by his adolescence due to his father's military postings. This constant relocation disrupted his sense of stability and belonging.
"I lived in 14 states. I lived in three states in first grade alone. I lived in three states again in ninth grade."
— Ben Owen [24:31]
At the age of 12, Ben began using substances, setting the stage for a life fraught with addiction. Despite his academic prowess—dating back to leading a clinical study that got published in "Neurology" at 13—Ben's path took a dark turn after moving to California in his teenage years.
Descent into Addiction
California proved to be a turning point. At 14, after being caught with marijuana, Ben was sent to a rehabilitation facility. His manipulation led to an overprescription of medications like Ritalin, exacerbating his anxiety and paranoia.
"I presented myself as a textbook case of somebody with bipolar disorder... they didn't listen and put me on drugs that made me worse."
— Ben Owen [36:13]
Ben's addiction deepened during high school and college at Auburn University. Balancing ROTC and academia became untenable as his substance abuse spiraled, leading to multiple relapses, health crises—including gallbladder removal—and strained relationships with his family.
Rock Bottom and Turning Points
A significant turning point occurred during a severe car accident, which forced Ben to confront his addiction head-on. The near-death experience catalyzed his commitment to sobriety, although the path remained tumultuous.
"That was my plan, I'm gonna drink myself to death... but something happened, and that was the day I'm gonna quit."
— Ben Owen [52:55]
His marriage suffered immensely, particularly after discovering his wife's infidelity, further plunging him into despair and substance abuse. The death of his friend Brandon Kelly served as a critical wake-up call, pushing Ben towards earnest recovery.
Recovery and Purpose
Through sheer determination and the support of his wife Jess, Ben achieved sustained sobriety. This period of recovery illuminated his life's purpose: transforming his past struggles into a mission to help others battling addiction.
"I found my purpose. I found my calling. I found the reason God put me on this earth."
— Ben Owen [21:05]
Founding We Fight Monsters and Flanders Fields
Ben co-founded We Fight Monsters and Flanders Fields with Jess Owen. These organizations focus on converting drug houses into sober living homes and combating human and narcotics trafficking in Memphis's most violent neighborhoods. Their approach emphasizes human connection, mentorship, and providing economic opportunities to those in need.
"Our goal is to find a way to get good shit done... We fight narcotics trafficking not by putting people in jail, not by shooting people, but by meeting people where they're at."
— Ben Owen [298:49]
Ben's strategies involve working directly with individuals affected by addiction, offering them support and avenues for recovery rather than relying solely on traditional punitive measures. This grassroots approach has led to the rehabilitation of hundreds, markedly reducing violent crime and addiction rates in the area.
"Victims don't recover. Victims die. And that's the start."
— Ben Owen [108:43]
Impact and Current Mission
Ben's initiatives have had a transformative impact on the Memphis community. By dismantling trap houses and replacing them with recovery spaces, he has not only helped individuals but also contributed to the overall safety and well-being of the neighborhood.
"We have no plans on slowing down... We want to take what we're doing in Memphis and blueprint exactly how I did it."
— Ben Owen [306:58]
His work underscores the importance of addressing addiction through compassionate, community-driven efforts, highlighting the efficacy of support systems over mere incarceration.
Notable Quotes
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"God winks kept happening."
— Ben Owen [10:18] -
"You have to make human connections."
— Ben Owen [307:05] -
"We're trying to bring hope, recovery, economic opportunity. We can actually get some big shit done."
— Ben Owen [298:09]
Conclusion
Ben Owen's story is a compelling testament to overcoming adversity and harnessing personal struggles to effect meaningful change. Through his dedication to combating addiction and human trafficking, he exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have on an entire community. His journey from the depths of addiction to leading a movement for recovery serves as an inspiration, illustrating that redemption and purpose are attainable even in the most challenging circumstances.
For more information on Ben Owen's initiatives, visit We Fight Monsters and Flanders Fields.