On this week’s Sober Life Rocks Podcast, we spoke with sobriety advocate Will Gordon—an educator, speaker, and survivor whose story redefines what it means to truly start over. Will’s journey from alcohol dependence to surviving multiple transplants is not only extraordinary but a testament to the power of honesty, faith, and service.

A Childhood Surrounded by Expectations and Alcohol

Will grew up in Boston as the youngest of four boys in a traditional Irish Catholic household. Alcohol was a constant presence at every gathering, celebration, and even casual evening. But more than the drinking culture, it was the pressure to meet his father’s expectations—especially in sports—that shaped him. While he loved music and theater, alcohol became the tool that allowed him to express himself and feel accepted.

From Celebration to Coping

In college, Will’s drinking escalated. What began as social fun became a coping mechanism. By his mid-twenties, while teaching full-time, alcohol turned from a reward into relief. It was no longer about having fun—it was about numbing stress and pain. The daily ritual of drinking after work quietly took over his life.

The Breaking Point

There was no dramatic public collapse. On the surface, Will seemed fine—a hard worker with a steady job. But internally, he was drowning in hopelessness. One day, he made a devastating decision: he was going to drink himself to death. What followed was both tragic and miraculous.

Three Transplants and a Second Chance

Will collapsed and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. His liver had failed. Through an extraordinary series of events, he received a transplant—but complications continued. Within months, his colon ruptured, giving him a 4% chance of survival, and later, his kidneys failed, requiring another transplant. Each time, he defied the odds. His survival became the spark for something bigger.

From Survival to Service

Will’s recovery wasn’t just physical—it was spiritual. He began to see his survival as a gift, a responsibility to help others. Today, he’s still teaching, but his passion extends beyond the classroom. He uses his voice to share his story on his podcast, The Willpower Podcast, connecting with people in all stages of recovery.

Using His Voice to Help Others

When Will began openly discussing his addiction and transplants, his family and friends were shocked—they had no idea he’d been suffering so deeply. But instead of judgment, he was met with compassion and admiration. Through vulnerability, he discovered that sharing his truth gave others permission to face their own struggles.

Redefining Recovery

Will doesn’t preach; he invites reflection. He asks listeners to examine how alcohol shows up in their lives and whether it’s truly serving them. His message is clear—you don’t have to hit rock bottom to make a change. Sobriety isn’t punishment; it’s liberation.

Final Thoughts

Will Gordon’s journey reminds us that miracles often come through courage and honesty. His story isn’t just one of recovery—it’s one of redemption, faith, and purpose. He’s proof that survival can evolve into service and that sharing your story might just save someone else’s life.

Stay Connected with Will:

• YouTube: The Willpower Podcast
• Instagram: @thewillpowerpodcast
• Coaching: Release Alcohol’s Grip

The post Episode70: Sobriety Advocate Will Gordon: From Addiction and Transplants to a Life of Purpose first appeared on Sober Life Rocks.