A Tuxedo of Live Hummingbirds-Steve

[@RealTalk2539]

Marks silence throughout this interview is also a powerful lesson to us all. We truly need to listen more and not just hear

[@gailmendez5465]

Mark remains quiet on many of his interviews

[@VioletJoy]

He's such a good listener.

[@letticiagonzales6657]

@@RealTalk2539 i don't completely disagree but i will say that there are certain people who require less prompting.. the man in this interview has written his story in a book i believe so he's well-rehearsed in its telling and there have been others where that's also the case. however Mark is certainly doing outstanding work giving a voice to the voiceless and knowing when to speak and when to actively listen 🙏🏽..

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you for everyone’s kind words and support! ✌️ ❤️ 🌈 Also, grateful to those who got my book and enjoyed it!

[@misspeace588]

This was a really beautiful story which may seem like an odd statement as it was certainly dark but that’s the human condition. My father died from his heroin addiction and like this gentleman he was an incredibly intelligent, engaging and charismatic man who made some bad choices. It breaks my heart that those choices would define him. I was told that once a junkie always a junkie and I’m so glad that’s not true. Thankyou for sharing, I’m so glad for you and your family that you found your way ✨💜🦋

[@SCcowgirl]

Thanks for sharing Steven. I am going to share your video with someone I know.. that may benefit from listening!!! Hoping for a Ripple effect ✌️

[@darstar27]

29:55 This Steve is EXACTLY what I went thru after 12 years of addiction to m*th. I've got 10 years clean now. You're an amazing speaker, and have never heard anyone describe it as well as you did here in this video. I wish you many, many years of a clean fulfilling life. God bless you ❤

[@sylviaguerra440]

I'm happy for you. What an experience!

[@bunny_girl.905]

The way you describe things 🤌🏻 amazing. Good luck to you sir. Thanks for sharing your story... I purchased your books 📚

[@realperson607]

I know Steve personally and have for the last 10 years. I know how much he has had to overcome. Super cool to see him on this channel. His travels are epic, and his addiction/recovery part of his dark journey in this life. He has a great way with words. Loved his book (Can You See Me Up Here). Mark and SWU are part of the solution, bringing awareness to things we want to turn our heads from and just go on with life. Hundreds of thousands of people dying year after year of our brothers, sisters, friends, loved ones, and neighbors. Thank you Mark for all you do!

[@lisaheltonhudson]

Love he has written a book! A MUST for every addict if they would read it and especially family struggling with an addiction in their family.

[@getin3949]

Did he get his heroin through a doctor, NO, right? Did he get his pill supply through a doctor, NO, right? The problem is on the street and it affects those of us in our later years from getting pain relief that we need because of the millions of addicts in America. It's total B.S.

[@scottgibbons2904]

Amen

[@pootz8082]

Sounds like you are Steve on a burner account trying to sell your book that’s the only reason why you came on SWU

[@yoginikaltri333]

@@pootz8082hmmm interesting insight. So? Book is still needed….

[@kimlouise-rf5rr]

It's not an epidemic. It's an apocalypse! Finally, words with real meaning.

[@OriginalMindTrick]

800 000 just from opioids is crazy. I wonder how many of the overdoses are from tainted, fentanyl-laced drugs from Mexico. So many people dying from bad benso and coke etc. The cartels don't give a damn.

[@scottgibbons2904]

Agreed

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you for listening. Yikes...what a mess. It's so sad. Thanks again for REALLY listening.

[@lisaheltonhudson]

Yes, perfect description! He has a beautiful command of language and descriptions.

[@OriginalMindTrick]

Again, getting a notification on a comment I replied to but my comment is gone? Am I the only one who is close to insanity here? Lol

[@marieneu264]

He’s a great speaker. My husband is an addict and he relapsed a million times, but he now goes to an outpatient program three days a week and he’s being medically assisted with suboxane. I know a lot of people don’t think that’s really being sober and it’s a crutch, but I don’t care. He hasn’t failed a drugged test in a year and he gets tested every single week of the year in this program.

[@winros]

It's like taking your diabetes medicine. No difference. 😊✌️🤟

[@drdabber710]

W Wife. But seriously good on you for not turning your back on him. I’ve had a lot give up on me through my addiction. We need that support and love.

[@Bob-kk2vg]

I know Suboxone gets a lot of flak but it saves a lot of people. It allows them to function and live. Hope he sticks with it. He’s a lucky guy.

[@Joel-rk8dh]

@@drdabber710if you turn your back on people for drugs then don’t get surprised when people turn their back on you. Quit doing drugs and make new friends that don’t do drugs.

[@AV-sq3jb]

Subbutex is the same shit as opiats the differents its not costly because state supplies it but addiction wise it even harder to kick as heroin

[@TruthfromRicky]

This guy is like a breath of fresh air. Mark I think you got one here. This guy can really dig deep and save someone by his own testimony. Holy hell this guy is truly remarkable.

[@yanicyoda4762]

Yeap.Very elequent.Thought It was the actor jeff Bridges for a second 😜

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you Ricky for leaving such positive, loving feedback. I've been struggling with some of the hateful comments...so, comments like yours really warms my spirit. I truly cannot tell you how much it means to me. Thank you for watching it and leaving feedback.

[@lisaheltonhudson]

Steve, try not to let the haters get you down or even listen to them. Probably just trolls... unless someone has had addiction issues, they will never understand and some people are just cruel and looking for someone to bully. It just makes THEM look small.

[@darcy.4739]

​@@CanYouSeeMeUpHere Hi Steve, Thank you for sharing such a vulnerable story, Question? But...@ you dont have to [answer] do you think your addiction was just you trying to have fun?partying gone to far? Or , did it go deeper? escaping and covering up feelings from abuse or,past traumas? I'm just wondering if addiction steams from family genetics, up bringing, or, self esteem issues,life circumstances. Did you have depression or anxiety or, did your addiction bring on any mental health issues? I know drugs can re wire brain chemistry, but, sometimes I think addiction isn't even real and, it's just a person wanting to escape, reality. I know my questions are personal but you don't seem like the typical *addict*,Mark interviews. Sorry, for sloppy writing, it's very late. Thank You Again. God Bless♡

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

@@darcy.4739 OMG. Let me unpack that one part at a time. Yes--it was partying gone too far. Yes--there are family genetics at play that are vulnerable to addiction. Yes--I've suffered from depression. And yes--a lack of self-esteem. And drug addiction feeds into that cycle of wanting to escape reality until it becomes a physical addiction. It's really a perfect storm of so many factors. I don't think I could look at any one thing as the absolute impetus for the addiction. And finally-yes. There has been trauma. But...we all have our thorny crowns to wear, and not everyone turns to drugs. I take full accountability for my mistakes. God Bless you as well. Have a wonderful weekend.❣

[@yr.8249]

Probably one of my favorite interviews in this channel. He's so articulate and self aware, he's really got a talent for storytelling.

[@Anonymous-km5pj]

wow, Mekong butterflies.... All the best, Steve

[@pamelamays4186]

What a storyteller. He paints beautiful pictures with words.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Awww, thank you, Pamela. That is very kind of you to say. 💕

[@3190chelsea]

Wow. Awesome interview. I have a brother who has struggled with addiction for almost 50 years and out of 7 kids I always knew he needed someone. I was there and still am there for him when he calls. Not for money. For a friend. ❤

[@Gram72534]

That was a great story and reminds me of why I have been here since the beginning of this channel! One of the hardest parts of being an addict is the stigma that society places on the person. This channel and these stories are the best chance we have at ever really figuring out this massive problem... We are all chasing something, we are all a lot more similar than we are different.

[@lisapizza6494]

❤

[@Gram72534]

@@lisapizza6494 hi Pizza!!! I hope you are doing well!!!

[@lisapizza6494]

@@Gram72534 you too my friend!

[@TanyaDavis954]

Chase JESUS

[@Gram72534]

@TanyaDavis954 hell No!!!

[@lizescalante3375]

Thank You Mark for allowing this beautiful person to share his story… “The Opposite of Addiction is Connection…” I know so many parents that would benefit from that one statement…thank you

[@TanyaDavis954]

But connection to people is not the ONLY anwser. How about connection to EARTH 🌎 nature. For me that is what's missing. Modern society takes us from the SOURCE.

[@lizescalante3375]

Agreed. Essential for the soul..❤

[@rosekelleher1094]

Mark,please have Steve on again.Thank you so much.

[@milicaradakovic8098]

As someone who has completely opposite life, I am grateful to have the opportunity to hear these stories.

[@MADDcartman]

Steve, never apologize for telling your story. People need to hear it. Addicts and none addicts alike. It is one of the worst plagues of society and needs to be confronted. Ppl sneaking around to meetings and treatment, being looked down by society; has not been the answer. Society as a whole needs to lend a hand. As you said, connection.

[@erincraig9109]

This. Well done Steve. I’m going to watch my 23 year old friend/non birth daughter graduate from rehab Thursday from a crack addiction - let’s all hope she follows in Steve’s path 💜 I love you my Paigey Pants I’ll see you Thursday at grad 💜

[@lexremillard2549]

The work begins after you get out of rehab

[@socal7044]

His path ends with smoking weed and drinking alcohol.

[@acstarr6609]

I'm glad she has you, family n friends support is a HUGE part in recovery, imho. We are all human and not perfect, at all. Paige having your support means more than you know. I wouldn't be here without the support of my family. I hope she has had enough and learnt life is better without crack, and leant the tools she needs. We are all unique and each have our own journey, what works for one isnt necessarily right for the next, so she needs to find what works for her, if that's meeting's, jogging or yoga do so. All the best.

[@erincraig9109]

@@acstarr6609 thank you 💜 I’m excited to see her future- she has very supportive parents, family and friends- so we are all rooting for her

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

@@socal7044 That's fair.

[@alicedee5540]

As a 35 yr FORMER addict myself, this guy hit the bullseye 100%. His descriptions how drugs take over the human soul was the best I've ever heard.

[@samsham8218]

Agreed.

[@georgecastanza6952]

I agree 100%

[@SchmelvinMoyville]

nobody loves anything like a FORMER drug addict loves to tell people on the internet about their FORMER addict status...yuck. gotta be all about myself! i did drugs too! look at me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@rachstoe7850]

@@SchmelvinMoyvilledumb ass comment. pride is deserved when someone comes back from the darkness. the world can be cruel and to then live in your own personal hell to have to fight through that is something to be wildly proud of. sharing with people and potentially giving someone hope is kind. having said all of that…. it wasn’t shoved down your throat so why are you here dweeb?

[@BeeKay4444]

Definitely especially the cold turkey…..I lived it.

[@DaRkPlUm]

Guys like this are doing the real work. To exist as living proof that, no matter whatever internal struggle you're having, you are strong enough to pull through. Thanks for sharing Steve. Makes me realize my cigarette addiction can totally be beat once and for all.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you SO much for taking the time to leave such a comment of positivity. You are strong enough--Cigs are hard to quit, but you got this. Thank you again for taking the time to watch the interview. 👊💪

[@DaRkPlUm]

@@CanYouSeeMeUpHere No problem bud, thanks for replying! Hoping to read your book soon, too. Take care.

[@timmywitty1432]

My friend Jen Six was the most wonderful dysfunctional heroin addict and friend l had ever met. She owned her own acupuncture and massage clinic in Littleton Colorado. I loved her very much, l have NEVER resonated so much with another person. She lied and said she had been clean for 5 years, l would not have even entertained the relationship had l known the truth so l am actually grateful she lied and l got one connection in my 40 years at that time. She bought what she was told was heroin by a local dealer that lived behind her and this person sold her fentanyl, she died on August 18, 2015. My heart broke! The dealer went to prison.

[@lisaheltonhudson]

Wow, I am so sorry for your loss. Few have friends as wonderful. Your love for her was truly felt ny her❤ drugs are a wicked and cruel partner.. I'm sure you were a constant light and life to her. ❤

[@timmywitty1432]

@@lisaheltonhudson Thank you for your kind heart.

[@margaretbaker1589]

The story of his travels are so vivid & exciting! The way he desribed the sun on the Mekong river....I was imagining the glistening on the leaves of the trees as well. The roar ofthe river ,the smell of the evening coming after a long afternoon in the jungle. The diff. Sounds of animals chirping & rustling around. The feeling of...solitude. I've dreamed my whole life of adventure like that! Unfortunate it led later to some really heatbreaking times for him. And I'm sure he wishes he had thoes memories with outthe drugs .But it was all part of the journey to who he is today . Very interesting guy . Very strong fortitude to do all he did. From Motoring an unmapped goat trail in Vietnam to laying in a dark room for 3 days fighting a war with in that was only his to win or lose. By far one of my favorites of this channel. Definitely going to help so many. Not just peep with addiction but thoes of us dealing with self worth & needing to be reminded of the power of the human spirit we forget we have . The kingdom of God lies within ✌️💜

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Wow. You nearly brought me to tears. Thank you for your kind words and for watching the video. You wrote one of my favorite comments--there is a lot of hatred out there; your feedback was a breath of fresh air. Truly. I am humbled. Love, light and positivity, Steve 🌎🍭🍀✌💛💚💙💜🤎

[@Silversmoke1000]

Steve is very articulate and descriptive with an interesting life. Glad that he finally found sobriety.

[@gregfritz6475]

Huge kudos to Steve for being so open about his journey. The way he narrates his story makes even the darkest moments of opioid addiction feel both powerful and, unexpectedly entertaining. This interview had me laughing out loud and tearing up at different points-he’s such a thoughtful, insightful person! I’m hooked, so I just ordered his book, “Can You See Me Up Here?” from Amazon and can’t wait to dive in!

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you. Your kind words mean more to me than I can possibly convey. I truly hope you enjoy my book and thank you so much for your compassion and empathy. 💜

[@brittanyrussell1723]

Send this man on the road and let him speak in every school, every rehabilitation center ect. I’m a year clean and sober and he just told my story for me!

[@lisaheltonhudson]

He IS A GREAT SPEAKER!!!! Needs to share his message at every place he can!!!! His descriptions are so alive, colorful and descriptive, you can see everything he's describing!! The tuxedo of hummingbirds, unicorns and butterflies... until it's not, and how wicked bad it got.. that it became everything to him...what a story teller, and I really loved hearing him, though the topic is so hard... he understands the epidemic of opiod addiction but can vividly describe it. Thanks Steve for sharing your story... and Mark for having him. Congratulations on your sobriety 😊

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you very much for your kind words. Thank you for listening and for taking the time to leave such thoughtful feedback. I am truly humbled. 🥰

[@TheOriginalMrBadaBing]

"The opposite of addiction is connection." I couldn't agree more having been an addict for over a decade, and having hid from anyone I knew so they wouldn't see me and I wouldn't compound the shame I was already piling on myself. Fact is, I was piling shame on my self to numb traumatic wounds that were not my fault, but were my responsibility to heal. Healing was overwhelming, because I didn't know how to heal. No one could really help me heal. And of course - my story must be "unique." What I've found out since then is there are so many similarities amongst us that we can all relate to, and help us connect. That connection continues to help me heal. Interesting and very vulnerable story Steve shared. I'm grateful for his willingness to expose himself in this way, all around the world, and be accountable for his past. And it is his past. His future sounds brighter. Happy for him. I felt empathy as I saw him shake and heard the trembles in his voice. He seems like someone I would want to sit and have a drink with - regular tea, coffee, or beer! I bet he's got a great laugh! Wishing him continued success.

[@TanyaDavis954]

But beer is an addiction, too. Millions of people die of alcoholism.

[@TanyaDavis954]

Not to mention it ruins, millions of families worldwide.

[@tereseday4060]

I could listen to him for hours. He should be writing books. He seems so self aware. One of my favorites.

[@Dwoww1568]

Apparently he has a book

[@mikemessineo4838]

He has a book- can you see me up here

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Awww. 💕👌Thank you for watching and THANK you for your kind words. It means so much to me. You are too kind.

[@tereseday4060]

@CanYouSeeMeUpHere It would be a great screenplay. Such a redeeming story.

[@micheladeleonardis2694]

Omg he is so fascinating to me. I just started listening and I could listen to him for hours and hours. He could start a podcast. I wish you all the very best to you and your family ♥️🇨🇦Love and light from Canada 🌠

[@liznicholas922]

Yes Marks channel shows that addiction happens to all walks of life. We are here to understand and not be judgemental.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you for taking the time to watch the interview. Thank you for being non-judgemental. 💛💚💙💜🤎

[@cathymarble3283]

BEST INTERVIEW EVER! I lost the love of my life to addiction. Now i know why ❤ He said it was like seeing God

[@lisaheltonhudson]

I'm so sorry for your loss 😢 addiction is a thief and a robber, a murderer and a sad, horrible road to travel.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

I am sorry for your heavy loss. That is SO sad. 💙💚💜🤎❤ I wish I knew the right words to say...but of course, there are no words. 😢

[@TanyaDavis954]

It's a counterfeit it's the devil

[@lisahemphill9139]

I’m amazed at how he felt so comfortable traveling solo overseas while searching for so many dangerous locations. Perhaps, it’s the addictions that makes people able to go into such places without fear.

[@TanyaDavis954]

Bullzie

[@telecatsermaster]

Lots of people are young and adventurous

[@pitbullmom6428]

Man.....some of these feelings you describe.....soooo familiar...Proud of you for making it out!!!🎉🎉🎉

[@HawaiiR]

His story telling ability is top tier. I could picture everything you described! Great video ❤

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you for listening and thank you VERY kindly for your compliment. Definitely feeling the love. 💓

[@_enjjeh_]

"the opposite of addiction is connection." that's so great!

[@BeeKay4444]

What an amazing interview! Best description of cold turkey I have ever heard. Nailed it!

[@maureentakach3065]

Like others say, This guy is a breath of fresh air. I love his honesty. Top three of them, Mark.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you so much, Maureen. I appreciate you. Truly. 😊

[@nickfenn]

I love how mark just lets this guy speak, no need to ask questions and guide the conversation - just lets the man tell his story and tell it he did.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you, Nick. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I appreciate your time and your positive feedback. 💯💯✌

[@conniebuehner8651]

What an amazing description of addiction and how hard it is to overcome and why. Thank you for sharing.

[@Echo-o-o]

I was riveted. Steve's analogies and vivid imagery make you feel like you are re-living these intense experiences along with him. Withdrawal is all of Dante's circles of hell housed in one brutal Russian doll of horrors, and more. May telling his stories keep him safe from that, forever.

[@Blackswan5]

Great metaphor

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Wow. This is my FAVORITE comment--very well said!! Thank you for taking the time to watch the interview and for leaving such cogent feedback. 💚

[@AlhambraIndus]

Steve has the most wonderfully articulate way of describing things." A Tuxedo of live Hummingbirds" is one of the most beautiful images to imagine.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Hahaha, it tickles me pink that you liked my silly metaphor 😊Thank you for taking the time to watch the video.

[@cannabissaves8940]

as a former opioid addict, seeing this is lovely. love how he articulates it. life after dope exists.

[@stephaniebutler81]

STEVE!!!!!! I know you from high school. I was best freidns with Chad Nelson. I was so excited to see you on SWU. You have had an amazing story. I'm going to read your book (Chad told me about it, because you mention him. I love that so much.)

[@hellraisincraisin]

This was truly one of the best interviews about addiction and recovery on this channel. Steve paints a beautiful illustration of his experiences for us as listeners, and I applaud him for sharing his journey. It helped me gain a perspective and insight I never knew I needed to hear. Congrats to your sobriety and will go keep living with a purpose ❤

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Awww. Thank you so very much for your graciousness. I really, truly, appreciate your beautiful feedback. 💙💙💙

[@rosekelleher1094]

Mark,this is a wonderful conversation.Thanks for having Steve on.Such an articulate,guy.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

I am grateful for your kind words. Thanks for taking time to watch the interview. 😊

[@utekrause8334]

Wow Steve this was a fantastic interview. I am so proud of you, beating addiction❤. I am original from Amsterdam in the Netherlands and in the 70`s till the 90`s there was a huge Heroin problem. I lived in an old house and one day a man squatted in the abandoned apartment below me. There was no electricity and I heard strange noises coming from below me. I knocked on the door and saw in an instance, what was going on. The man was making a woodfire in the old woodburner and I could see the needles on the table. I connected with this man, cooked the extra portion of food and gave it to him 3 times per week. I could not afford more times. Our connection lasted for 1 year and it was always in the stairwell, talking about life.. He was a heroin addict but never has been stealing from me ( he did it somwhere else). It was an interesting connection , I always saw the person not the junkie, still I also was aware that he could not to be trusted, I did not expected it. After 1 year the police took him out and I have never seen him again.

[@Kate-cr1fz]

This was a brilliant interview, Steve is an amazing speaker. His travels sound fascinating.

[@juliemackenzie1978]

Quite a journey…I really enjoyed his story. Thank you for sharing this video with us. 👍🇨🇦😊 A very honest brutal look into his addiction.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you, Julie, for taking the time to watch the interview. I'm glad you enjoyed it. And thank you for your positive comment. 💕💜💙💚💛

[@michellebouchard4427]

This man is a great speaker I enjoyed very much hearing his story. I'm going to look up his book to read another great interview Mark. Thank you 🙏😊

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you, Michelle. I appreciate you taking a moment to leave such charitable feedback...and thank you for watching the interview. Yours, Steve 🧡💛💚💙💜

[@shivakami9293]

Dear Steve, thank you so much for sharing this. I wish you all the very best💙

[@katiedid9224]

The way he paints a picture with his words is unmatched. You can't step away. Its like you are there with him, lions pyjama's and all. What a catch mark would love to hear him again.

[@toriscott1881]

His story is a powerful means of connection!

[@manamedia]

Being in India and Kathmandu is freaky enough without being high! How he managed and navigated that, in a high state, is incomprehensible.

[@bobnobber2295]

Thank you for thiz episode!!!! This literally is such a part of my personal life, more then me... My 100 percent loved ones and friends.

[@donnaburke9998]

Steve this discussion was great! You are a great speaker. I grew up in Cambridge MA and miss the area so much! Best to you. Donna Burke

[@roode8413]

Wow I could listen to this man over and over! The picture he puts in your head, you can really see what he is talking about. Thank you!

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you!!! I super-appreciate you. 💓

[@christophershockley1110]

One of your best interviews.

[@eh288]

THE BEST INTERVIEW, EVER! So much respect for this man!

[@adriand1181]

“Nobody should know your brain and body can feel that good, cuz it’s hard to walk away from that” - Steve Wow that statement is the crux of addition

[@mysticgardener2704]

Phenomenal story. I loved every minute of this interview. Looking forward to reading his book. The opposite of addiction is connection!!

[@lisaheltonhudson]

Yes, one of the best ever! His wisdom past his addiction is epic. Thank you Steve!

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you so much. I am thankful for your time and positive feedback. 💙💜💚💛

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

@@lisaheltonhudson Thank YOU, Lisa! I am truly humbled by all the love and support.

[@tracyhill6166]

8 years sober here, but its amazing how out of the blue, listening to him talk about his experience in the jungle sounds so appealing. You can think you're completely over it (the desire for opiates) but when you least expect it, the wanting of it returns. I don't ever want to go through that again. No amount is enough, and the smallest amount is too much. Just for today, friends. You and me both. ❤❤

[@TanyaDavis954]

That's the same line alcoholics say. Just an observation.

[@stormrunner0029]

So glad I found your channel Mark. Amazing insights on life. Learning lessons without having to live the horrors.🖖

[@righteousmonkey]

For someone that's been there myself, this one is ABSOLUTELY POWERFUL! Outstanding story Steve. As always, great work Mark. 🙏

[@ianmckinnon8461]

great speaker, im 62 opiate addict australia.. Hi calibre speaker mark.. Thankyou

[@silverowlthrifter]

Have you ever heard of Kratom… it’s helped others quit

[@ianmckinnon8461]

@@silverowlthrifter yes ive heard of the kratom leaf, im on methadone that is brutally hard to detox... 90 days and your still weak, rattling and cant get to sleep. i kicked it with rohypnol and tramadole, but in australia there impossible to get now.. Thankyou for the adive🌈✌

[@thatpart]

I have bookmarked this one for repeated listens down the road. The speaker's story and determination are incredible.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

💞💗💖💙💚💜 Thank you so much for your kindness!!!

[@Midami422]

WOW! Oh man! Steve is a really tough cookie. Way to go, Steve! You keep staying strong and living the life you deserve, man!

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Awww, thank you so much!!! I appreciate your support and kindness!💙💙💙💙💙💙💜

[@janetflaherty1105]

Glad you choose life, Steve... That interview aka share was experience, strength and hope.

[@TaterTots380]

I loved every minute of this interview. Thank you for sharing your story Steve!

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank YOU! I am humbled by your kindness.

[@user-mm8pp4ig1r]

I was looking forward to hearing this, I read the book he wrote. Can you see me up here. It’s a great story. It’s an adventure, the pieces dealing with addiction are honest, raw, and difficult to read. But they are as important to the story as the adventure.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Awww. Thank you, Christine...my Love. 🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶

[@user-mm8pp4ig1r]

@ 💜🦋🪶

[@sheepnomore8063]

Great story teller and great ability to explain the grip of drug addiction.

[@rosemaryallen2637]

Mark, I loved this guys’ story! He was so honest and intelligent. Thank you!

[@breadandgravymusic]

This is the best one yet IMO and I would love to hear more from this guy. It ended too soon.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you. I appreciate your charitable words. It's very kind of you. 🐘

[@Diana_Marr]

Such a great interview and a very strong man. Ive never been addicted to drugs or alcohol but I can feel his pain through this video. Wow!!

[@00a09722]

The tea! So few people talk about the tea. I was well into a career opiate addiction by the time I started grinding pods in 2003. I had been a heroin user from 1988, then of course pills were a better product, then we started grinding pods to get off the needle. It worked and the cost comparison between pills and pods was a huge savings. I worked as a server for years drinking poppy tea. High functioning until the realization that it was 100% the most unbearable detox by far. So I always say poppy tea led me to complete medical addiction. Then back to pills then suboxone for 6 years to try and save myself. I have been clean since 2011 thanks to Rapid Drug Detox Detroit. I haven't thought about tea in a while. It's still hard to believe way back then the boxes of pods came UPS and they were purple black and pure. Nasty too.

[@AspenRose-b6w]

I really enjoyed listening to his account. He’s a very eloquent speaker and it’s nice to see someone who’s come out the other side,and longs to stay that way. I’m glad he chooses to use his book to hold himself accountable, that’s awesome . I pray he stays on his current path and knows much joy and happiness in his new life💕addiction is a lifelong struggle but sobriety is so much more beautiful.I’ll definitely read his book.

[@justjen6605]

Good morning Mark & SWU chat 🌅

[@binzypoo]

Good evening from New Zealand :)

[@SPIndy72]

I'm a recovering alcoholic and addict... though opiates aren't part of my story. I spent a week in rehab with several heroin addicts. They looked like walking dead people. Everyone (addict or not) needs to hear this story. It just may save more lives. Thank you for sharing it and thank you Mark for continuing to be the conduit.

[@RachelsSweetie]

Connecting isn't as easy for everybody as he seems to think.

[@wantobeaprincess]

Just finished the book. It s extraordinary. Stay safe

[@AtibaVV]

Again thank you for this interview this was great man to interview he really imparting knowledge through his experience on the youth

[@Soaptoaster]

Wow, what a story. Riveting. So descripitive, artful adn articulate. Moments of poetry here. Congrats on such a complete life reversal.

[@sakinahjanan9546]

It's a spiritual, disconnection issue. Life has been profoundly DEvalued.

[@Nmh86]

Wow this was an adventure for my imagination thank you Mark for this wonderful interview. Steve thank you for sharing your experience it took my on a journey with you, I am a recovering opioid addict myself and your story felt very real for me I could feel the pain in my imagination.

[@cloudbloom]

Wow what an interesting guy, thanks for having him on Mark *Steve you're a hero. This almost brought me to tears, thanks for sharing💗 btw I'm going to buy your book!

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Cloudbloom....thank you. YOU brought me to tears with your kindess.

[@georgecastanza6952]

Peoples brains are wired differently. Some people take a opioid and feel tired and sleepy, others take one and feel better then they ever have, full of energy and happier then they have EVER felt. It is hard to choose not to be super happy.

[@johnobrien5037]

Glad he overcame his addiction. He just as easily could have kept going like so many do, but this guy is an "executive addict". Doesnt get started til mid thirties while trekking around the world, no history of institutions or homelessness, no trauma to speak of, develops a bad attitude, but still pretty sociable and stops after 10 or so years and a "close call". The exotic locales are what separates his story, but the addiction part of it is pretty vanilla. A guy that flirted with the dark side, but got out before the shit got REAL real.

[@peace.404]

Wow, this story is AMAZING. I listened from start to finish. ❤ the opposite of addiction is connection….I won’t forget that.

[@TanyaDavis954]

Are you not ready for another lockdown? Don't worry, they know what's best for us.

[@janelle-westsideblonde]

Thank you for your story. A lot of people wouldn’t think he was an addict by the way he looks and his family money so it’s compelling to hear this side.

[@JeanneLol-x4v]

I already like this guy it’s not all about how you were raised in your family Mark get that straight People have very good parents, and yet they still choose to abuse drugs

[@ericameador7706]

I loved his description of his traveling adventures. I could picture the rivers and the jungle in all their glory! What an amazing story teller! I woukd love to read "Can You See Me Up Here"

[@RickKelly-e6v]

I can fully relate to this guy he s worth listening to better than a meeting

[@SipsiBach]

I remember another SWB interviewee Pretty saying ' the opposote of addiction is connection'. I think that teaches us something about what needs to be done in society.

[@nic.am.i]

Went ahead and ordered his book. This was a brilliant interview Mark. A rare success story but a success nonetheless. Thank you for shedding light on the “untouchables”.

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Wow. Thank you SO much for ordering a copy of my little book. I hope you enjoy it!! I am humbled. ❤🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤎💖

[@nic.am.i]

I can’t wait to sink my teeth into it! There’s a myriad of gems just in this interview alone, I can only imagine how much richer your book is. 😊 Also, I’ll have you know, you’ve stoked the fire I have to go ahead and write my story. Even if it doesn’t sell, it’ll be a legacy of truth and hopefully some wisdom 😅for my kiddos after I leave my earthly shell. Thank you for being vulnerable, open and transparent. You’re a beacon of light in an otherwise dark abyss that a lot of us are in or are slowly coming out of. I wish you nothing but the best that life has to offer. 🥰 Stay well and stay you. 🤗 💜

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

@@nic.am.i Wow. You are too kind. 'Earthly shell'. You have a way with words, as well. I'm glad that I was able to stoke the fire smoldering within you. Write your book. Tell your story. Bequeath your journey to your children. I also wish you nothing but the best as well, ma'am. Peace, light and harmony, Steven 🌏😁🤩

[@janetmorecraft2206]

The best segment ! Thank you .

[@CanYouSeeMeUpHere]

Thank you, Janet. I appreciate you. Thanks for taking time out of your day to watch the interview. 😊

[@dfoxtrot724]

Such an adventurous spirit. Sadly took him on the worst, dangerous adventure that he traveled for too long. But that same spirit saved him. Well done Steve ❤

[@TheFoxyshade]

Thank you for sharing ur extraordinary story! The traveling part was to me like u were climbing mountains to find something 😊. I’m happy u are well n living ur best life n would love to read ur book. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@brandybrazeale127]

I was SHOUTING “YES” throughout this interview! Everyone needs to this to this man, because the stigma around addiction is AWFUL! I lost a former student to fentanyl in 2019 and then the man God created for me to methamphetamine in June of 2023! 💔 Since I lost Zach in 2019, I have been on a mission to get teachers trained in understanding addiction and overdose! In 2023, I trained nearly 70 school employees and this past summer, I trained 25ish. While I am proud of this accomplishment, losing my love has been the hardest journey of my life! Losing someone to the disease of addiction is so lonely! And people need to know that! Because when someone loses someone to cancer, people surround them with love and support…but when you lose someone to methamphetamine, you struggle alone! My love was the most amazing man I have ever met…kind, loving, patient! But he could not cope with the struggles of life and past trauma without numbing with meth! Mental health is so important…and basic human decency!

[@marylougeorge9890]

Steven you did an excellent job explaining your addiction. Thank you. ❤❤❤

[@EllaGreenn]

Heroin is the line he wouldn't cross... Funny how important language is. If you call it poppy tea, it sounds so childishly innocent and Britishly decent. Even makes me start singing "Just a spoon full of sugar makes the melancholy go down..." But heroin?? The EXACT SAME thing, suddenly is a very dangerous drug. This is why I don't want any ideology tinkering with language and ordering people to use different words.

[@martinmummert5614]

We use the acceptable medical term 'cicumcision' to sugar coat the barbarity of genital mutilation that's forced upon newborn male infants every day in the United States.

[@drdabber710]

Or morphine, perfectly fine. Heroin equals devil.

[@treehouse8501]

It’s not though. Opium and heroin are not the same. They are cousins but not identical. First of all ingesting it through your stomach is not as nearly as intense and heroin is processed with another chemical, kinda like sniffing coke compared to smoking crack. It’s a whole other level higher on the addiction/hard drug spectrum.

[@carlyellison8498]

I had an identical cousin. 😔

[@EllaGreenn]

@@treehouse8501 I see what you mean and don't entirely disagree. However that's like saying music isn't music if you play a different genre and/or don't play it extremely loud. It's the exact same thing, but in a different degree. All substances get more harmful and addictive when you accelerate the speed it gets in your blood/hits your dopamine receptors. Starting any type of opiod is always extremely risky no matter how harmless the consumption method seems or how cute the name. Same but different but in the end still the same. The words 'poppy tea' make it seem as though there is hardly any risk, while the word 'heroin' sets of all kinds of alarms. It doesn't matter if you just 'sing quietly' at the start, you're gonna have to face very loud music in the end.

[@vidamariaixchel4962]

Damn! What a beautiful man. 🧽🪗🌀🔰💘🍑⛳️🦋👞🧩🌋

[@margriet2038]

What a super interview! Steve I wish i have met you on your trip in the Golden Triangle … but we did not , you are an adventurous person and very self aware , and you are right addiction and connection , maybe you needed the addiction for a better connection with yourself , whatever , you wrote your book and i just ordered it at Amazon , looking forward to read more of it ! Thank you so much for your honest ( and wow beautiful written !!! I could see it all!) story ❤

[@ThisStoryMatters]

Amazing interview Mark. Hope he continues on his path of recovery.

[@dhenson]

I've enjoyed listening to your story. Thank you so much foe sharing!

[@gsteele89]

Steve's photo made me take a pause because he resembles Matthew Perry if Matthew Perry would've lived an extra 10-15 years more.