Prison, Addiction, and the Journey to Self-Acceptance with Russell Byrne

Slay Your Dragons - Malcolm Stern

Send us a text

Russell Byrne takes us on a remarkable journey from childhood struggles with stuttering and shyness to finding temporary solace in alcohol, then ultimately discovering his true calling as a compassionate counsellor working with society's most marginalized individuals. This conversation reveals how personal wounds can transform into powerful healing gifts when coupled with courage and compassion.
At fourteen, Russell discovered alcohol as a way to overcome his social anxiety and feel accepted. What began as a social lubricant eventually developed into a dependency that threatened his relationships - until a profound experience at an AA meeting sparked lasting change. "I had a real emotional kind of catharsis... I never drank again," he shares with disarming honesty about the moment that altered his life's trajectory fifteen years ago.
What makes Russell's approach to therapy truly extraordinary is his commitment to radical acceptance. Working in prison systems and rehabilitation centres, he deliberately avoids reading case files so he can meet each person without preconceptions. Even when confronted with individuals who had committed horrific offenses, Russell maintained his capacity for compassion: "I went in there, sat in front of him, and I had no judgment... I could still feel a deep connection." This approach created unprecedented safe spaces where vulnerability and authentic connection could flourish among men who had never experienced positive emotional bonds.
The conversation explores how Russell's Buddhist practice parallels and enhances his therapeutic work by developing his capacity for presence and non-judgment. Rather than relying on clinical manuals or academic knowledge, his effectiveness stems from authenticity and a willingness to create space for others' humanity to emerge. A former inmate once told him while sharing their first hug: "I've never hugged a man in my life, even my father" - a poignant testament to the transformative power of genuine connection.
Listen as Russell reflects on his continuing struggle with self-worth and finding value in himself - the dragon he continues to slay with compassion. His journey reminds us that healing is never a destination but rather an ongoing process of becoming more fully ourselves and helping others do the same.

This Podcast is sponsored by Onlinevents

Chapters

1. Prison, Addiction, and the Journey to Self-Acceptance with Russell Byrne (00:00:00)

2. Meeting Russell Byrne (00:01:32)

3. Drawn to prison counseling work (00:03:44)

4. Overcoming alcohol addiction (00:09:37)

5. Coming out and rebuilding relationships (00:16:11)

6. Creating safe spaces in prisons (00:22:08)

7. Acting career to therapeutic work (00:27:47)

8. Beyond judgment in therapy (00:30:59)