Today on Sense of Soul Podcast we have, Author & Advocate Marlon Bacote. After three decades of battling addiction, he hit rock bottom and searched for recovery and wellness. He spent a combined total of 23 years in jail and prison for petty larceny charges to support his habit. With co-occurring disorders ranging from depression, PTSD, bipolar, and Substance Use Disorder, he felt he had no way out of a meaningless life. Hopeless, suicidal, and lacking self-esteem, he entered the Drug Court Program, and everything changed.
While in Drug Court, he earned two college degrees, held a steady job at the regional hospital, and began a career as a mental health professional to include becoming a VA Board Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. 
He joined us today to share his first book, “Lighting the Way: Hidden Treasures.” Which highlights the importance of peer support in the treatment of mental health and promotes self-love in the hidden treasures we all possess.
Get his book:
https://www.amazon.com/Lighting-Way-Treasures-Marlon-BaCote/dp/B09PK6JC6D/ref=nodl_?dplnkId=29a573e5-8176-42e9-9682-fffc9c56fbd4
Follow his journey on social media: 
https://instagram.com/bacotemarlon?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
https://www.tiktok.com/@marlonbacote623?_t=8edDlE1nrYM&_r=1
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100055507114504&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Learn more about his journey:
https://www.wavy.com/opioid-addiction/portsmouth-health-department-hosts-opioid-anti-stigma-training/amp/
https://www.wtkr.com/2017/06/08/after-years-of-battling-his-own-addiction-newport-news-native-saves-man-who-overdosed-in-car
https://www.liberty.edu/journal/article/the-opioid-epidemic-responding-to-a-crisis-that-is-gripping-our-nation/
https://www.amazon.com/Lighting-Way-Treasures-Marlon-BaCote/dp/B09PK6JC6D