How I Turned My Life Around And Built FTX Performance

Not long ago, I was lost in alcoholism and drug addiction. My life was spiraling, and I felt completely alone. I woke up every day unsure if I’d make it through. It’s not something I’m proud of, but it’s part of my story. A story that’s real, raw, and proof that change is possible for anyone.

Back then, I didn’t believe I had much to offer the world. But something inside me—a tiny voice I couldn’t ignore—told me I had to fight for more. I had to take back my life. Getting sober wasn’t just hard; it was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. Sobriety didn’t just mean stopping the drinking or the drugs; it meant facing who I was, making peace with my past, and learning how to rebuild everything I had torn down.

In the early days of recovery, I discovered fitness. At first, it was just a way to fill my time and get out of my head. But it quickly became something bigger. Lifting weights and pushing myself physically started to teach me lessons I had never learned before. I realized that, just like in recovery, progress in the gym didn’t happen overnight. It took showing up every day, even when I didn’t feel like it. Slowly but surely, I started to believe in myself again.

The Idea

That’s where the idea for FTX Performance and Recovery Through Repetition came from. I wanted to create a place where people could experience what I had—where they could work on their bodies, minds, and souls, all while building a sense of community. For me, FTX is more than a gym. It’s a safe haven. It’s where someone recovering from addiction can find their strength again. It’s where someone feeling stuck can rediscover their confidence.

Recovery Through Repetition

Recovery Through Repetition (RTR) was born out of that same drive to give back. RTR is a free fitness community that helps people in recovery find purpose and connection through movement. Seeing someone walk into RTR unsure of themselves and watching them leave stronger and more confident—there’s nothing like it. It’s the kind of work that fills your soul.

Every day, I get to help people in recovery because of what we do at FTX and RTR. Whether it’s a mom getting her life back after addiction, someone stepping into fitness for the first time, or a client achieving a goal they never thought possible, it reminds me why I started this journey.

You’re Not Alone

If you’re reading this and feel like you’re stuck or searching for a way to move forward, I want you to know that you’re not alone. I’ve been there, and I know what it’s like to feel like everything is falling apart. But I also know what it’s like to come out the other side, stronger and more focused than ever.

I’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment below or come visit us at FTX. Let’s see how we can help you take that first step toward becoming the person you’re meant to be.