Healing, Humor & Hope: Jordan Kawchuk
- Tony Chapman
- Jul 17
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 5
Finding Grace and Grit in Recovery: Highlights from "Chatter That Matters" With Jordan Kawchuk
What does it take to rebuild a life shattered by addiction? How do you reclaim relationships, redefine self-worth, and transform shame into a story that uplifts not only yourself but countless others? These profound questions and more are explored in a raw and revealing episode of the acclaimed podcast Chatter That Matters, hosted by Tony Chapman.
In an episode that’s already resonated deeply with listeners, Chapman sits down with writer, musician, and recovering alcoholic Jordan Kawchuk, whose 30-year battle with alcoholism speaks to the resilience of the human spirit. This isn’t just a story about addiction—it’s about hope, humor, healing, and the connections that ultimately save us.
A Podcast for Those Who Seek Meaning
Chatter That Matters, presented by RBC and released weekly, isn’t your average interview series. Each Friday, host Tony Chapman invites luminaries, survivors, and changemakers from around the world to share their trials and triumphs. Their collective wisdom offers listeners not only inspiration but practical life lessons—making this podcast a regular fixture for anyone looking to improve their health, relationships, or mindset.
Jordan Kawchuk’s Hard-Fought Lesson: Connection Over Isolation
“Alcohol was my social lubricant,” Kawchuk shares, tracing the roots of his addiction to a childhood surrounded by the romanticized image of cocktails and camaraderie. He describes, with vivid candor, a home where 1950s jazz and martinis set the scene—a culture where drinking was synonymous with belonging and celebration.
From his earliest years, however, Kawchuk hints at a deeper unease. “What kid isn’t anxious and restless?” he asks, opening up about his diagnosed ADHD and anxiety, and how alcohol quickly became more than a habit: it was a necessity.
But as the disease progressed, so too did the consequences: repeated stints in addiction treatment centers (“over twenty times”), the loss of relationships, finances, and—most heartbreakingly—time with his daughters. “I can’t stop once I have a drink. That’s my disease,” Kawchuk confesses.
Biopsychosocial-Spiritual Disease: Destroying Myths About Alcoholism
One of the episode’s most powerful insights is Kawchuk’s assertion that alcoholism isn’t a “moral failing or a lack of willpower”—a critical distinction for a culture still steeped in stigma. “It’s a biopsychosocial spiritual disease. It hijacks your brain, your body and your spirit,” he explains, reminding listeners that shame and isolation are often greater enemies than the bottle itself.
“In my heart and in my soul I know what matters, but [alcoholism] removes salience—important things aren’t important anymore,” he says, echoing the experience of millions. Kawchuk’s honesty cuts through common stereotypes around addiction, particularly the outdated image of the “derelict drunk.” Instead, he offers a portrait of a successful professional, loving father, and talented artist—one whose disease simply didn’t discriminate.
Humor as Survival: Life Inside the Treatment Center
Despite the darkness, the episode is far from dour. Kawchuk’s self-deprecating humor brings levity to an often-taboo topic, detailing the quirky realities of communal recovery. He jokes about being the “only non-smoker, non-vaper” in a house full of “20 gym bros” and “jailbirds,” painting a vivid scene of camaraderie forged through adversity.
“There are funny things about treatment when you’re living in this microscopic world and have to have humor. I could write a book that would devastate readers—but there’s also a humorous side, which helps people relate,” Kawchuk says.
It’s clear that laughter, for him, is neither denial nor minimization—it’s survival.
“Dry” vs. “Sober”: Changing More Than Just Your Drink
Kawchuk challenges common narratives around sobriety—particularly the recent trend of “sober curiosity.” He draws a critical distinction between abstaining from alcohol and transforming your life.
“Being dry is different than being sober,” he explains. “Being dry is white-knuckling and counting days. Being sober is a whole new set of values and behaviors—a reconnection with self and something spiritual. It is everything that’s different and good.”
This episode is a wake-up call to those who might equate cutting back with recovery. For those suffering from addiction, he insists, the work is lifelong and all-encompassing.
The Healing Power of Writing and Storytelling
Throughout the interview, Chapman and Kawchuk emphasize the importance of creative expression—especially writing and journaling—in the recovery process. Kawchuk candidly admits he’s a “terrible journaler,” but it was when he began to write with vulnerability about his journey that true healing started.
“When I write about recovery or my path with complete vulnerability, something clicks,” he shares. “I feel more me, and I feel free of me.”
His forthcoming book, “Why I Wasn’t There,” is both a reckoning and an act of forgiveness, particularly towards his daughters, with whom he’s slowly rebuilding relationships. By publicly sharing his struggles—including in a searing Globe and Mail essay—Kawchuk hopes to help others find permission to speak up and seek help.
Recovery Is Not Linear—And Relapse Is Not Failure
Kawchuk’s story is clear: there is no “one and done” when it comes to addiction. He describes walking straight from a hospital to a liquor store and emphasizes the complex medical and psychological realities of relapse. For him, true change came only after seeking help “for myself, not for my family, not for a partner.”
Perhaps more importantly, Kawchuk eviscerates the idea that relapse erases all progress. “This is the first time I’m looking at all my time as valuable—good and bad. I don’t start over when I get sick,” he says, offering hope to those stuck in the cycle of shame.
Rebuilding Through Service: Tutoring, Not Just Surviving
Nine months sober at the time of the recording, Kawchuk now lives in a therapeutic community and tutors children in reading and writing—an unexpected, deeply meaningful role. “It’s just a little over minimum wage and only 10, 11 hours a week. And it’s the most meaningful job I’ve had in decades,” he smiles. This daily, humble service is a form of redemption for time he “didn’t get a chance to do” with his own daughters—a gentle reminder that purpose can be rebuilt, one act of kindness at a time.
Advice for Listeners: Connection, Not Perfection
Asked to share wisdom with those struggling—whether with addiction, self-esteem, or simply feeling stuck—Kawchuk’s advice is refreshingly practical:
“Connection—reaching out. I had trouble with that for a long time… But if you are struggling, see it medically as well. There are so many avenues. Don’t feel ashamed,” he says.
Why Listen to This Podcast Episode?
Honest storytelling: Kawchuk’s voice is equal parts intellect, humor, and raw honesty—making this an unusually accessible look at addiction and recovery.
Life lessons for all: Whether you’re battling your own demons or supporting someone who is, the episode’s takeaways about connection, purpose, and forgiveness land powerfully.
Practical hope: The episode refuses toxic positivity, instead offering real hope grounded in incremental change and support.
Chatter That Matters is more than a podcast—it’s a wellspring of empathy, information, and inspiration for anyone seeking to live more bravely and meaningfully. If a single episode could change how we see addiction—and possibility—it’s this one.
Listen now!
About Chatter That Matters and Host Tony Chapman
Featuring insights for aspiring founders, entrepreneurs, and anyone craving inspiration with actionable strategies.
Chatter That Matters is one of Canada’s top-rated podcasts, showcasing stories and lessons from a diverse range of guests, including entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and everyday change-makers. Each episode illustrates how individuals transform challenges into triumphs through mindset and resilience.
Hosted by Tony Chapman—a renowned marketing strategist and three-time inductee into the Marketing Hall of Fame—this acclaimed show ranks among the top 0.5% of podcasts globally. Tune in weekly as Tony converses with guests who share invaluable wisdom on living a meaningful life.
🔥 Authentic voices. Remarkable journeys. Real strategies for success.
🎧 Fresh episodes available weekly.
Follow/Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform:
To learn more about RBC and their programs visit:
Comments