S2 Episode 024 - Tony Kost - From Shadows of Addiction to Shining in Sobriety

We Recover Loudly - Serving Essential Hospitality Conversations

In this new episode, Shell is joined by Tony Kost, an amazing advocate for sobriety in the hospitality industry. He shares his inspiring journey from the dive bars of his youth to working alongside culinary legends like Iron Chef Michael Simon, a path that unfortunately took a downturn due to alcoholism. Tony is gearing up to celebrate 8 years of sobriety in the coming weeks, and he truly embodies the fact that it is possible to thrive in a bar focused career while also maintaining sobriety.

Tony opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of early sobriety, the challenges of dealing with regret and shame, and the ongoing effort needed for genuine recovery. His reflections emphasise the significance of compassionate leadership and the duty we all have to foster supportive environments for those in need of help. Through honest conversations, Tony shares the emotional impact of moving on from an identity tied to addiction and the vital role of self-accountability in this process.
Some of the things we discussed :

• The sharp increase of Tony's drinking when he moved to working in high end restaurants where he felt the culture of expectation to drink started to take a real influence.
• The challenging truth that many people in the hospitality industry, like Tony and Shell, have lost so many years to stress, burnout, and addiction. Now, in their early 40s, they find themselves having to process the grief of those lost years.
• How Tony used his social media, and outing himself, to help with accountability when he wanted to change his life and stick with sobriety.
• The often exploitative dynamic in our industry between young newcomers and management, and how this culture is nearing its expiration date, as we're now experiencing challenges with recruitment

Talking to Tony is always such a treat. He is an incredible role model to the industry, to his peers and the people who have the pleasure of having his support in the Ben's Friends meetings in Cleveland. Follow him on socials, and know that his DM's are always open if you need support.

@tony_and_oscarjames

If you want to check out a Ben's Friends meeting head to their website for more details.

https://www.bensfriendshope.com/

For more information on We Recover Loudly and to reach out for speaking engagements or support email [e-mail]

@werecoverloudly
www.werecoverloudly.com

This episode is brought to you by our proud sponsors:

Low No Drinker Magazine @lownodrinkermagazine

www.lownodrinkermagazine.com

Kapitler

1. From Addiction to Recovery (00:00:00)

2. Navigating Alcoholism in the Industry (00:12:41)

3. Navigating Regret and Recovery (00:24:07)

4. Navigating Career Change in Recovery (00:28:15)

5. Navigating Shame and Accountability in Recovery (00:33:43)

6. Transforming Industry Culture for Worker Wellness (00:40:02)

7. Sustainable Drinking Culture in Hospitality (00:51:31)

8. Inspiring Stories of Recovery and Transformation (00:55:48)