The Man Who Wanted to Die... And the Trip That Saved Him

For this seventh and final installment in our addiction series, Rich Soza joins Judd for an unflinching conversation about addiction, redemption, and the role human connection plays in recovery. What begins as a lighthearted reflection on rehab antics quickly gives way to a vulnerable account of relapse, pain, and the moment Rich faked his own death to escape his emotional reality.

The episode explores how Rich and Judd's friendship was forged in the trenches of rehab—but the most powerful part of the story begins when Rich, in the depths of alcoholism and despair, calls Judd pretending he only has four weeks to live. Judd's unwavering presence—flying cross-country to take Rich to Disney World and arranging for his detox—becomes a literal life-saving moment. Rich later opens up about the psychological and emotional pain that brought him there, revealing how shame, loneliness, and fear can drive someone to such lengths. This is more than a story about addiction; it’s a message for anyone who’s ever felt like giving up. It’s about how connection, even at its most fragile, can be the thread that pulls someone back from the edge.

5 Lessons from the Episode

Authentic connection: Real relationships built on honesty and vulnerability can save lives.

Choose daily joy: Happiness isn’t automatic—it’s a conscious decision made each day.

Consistency matters: Small, repeated actions—like affirmations—can rebuild a shattered identity.

There’s always help: Even at your lowest, there are people willing to show up if you reach out.

Purpose heals: Helping others gives our pain meaning and becomes the foundation for lasting recovery.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 The Choice to Be Happy
01:28 First Meeting at Rehab
04:28 Bonding Over Sand and Salsa
07:55 The Ferrari in Rehab
11:31 Living Together Post-Rehab
13:33 Relapse and Reflection
18:13 Faking Death and the Cry for Help
25:16 Facing the Edge
29:10 The Disney World Intervention
36:33 Bacteria, Hospitals, and a Real Brush With Death
43:10 A Year of Silence and the Breaking Point
45:38 The Life-Saving Phone Call
50:04 The Connection Cure Begins
52:24 From Darkness to Daily Light
54:21 Sharing the Message Forward
56:36 Final Words for Those on the Edge

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