Nov. 21, 2025
Hitting Life's Curveballs: Beating Crack Addiction and MS
Hitting Life's Curveballs: Beating Crack Addiction and MS Ep 380, November 21, 2025
Overcoming Addiction and Adversity: The Kelley Gulledge Story
In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant interviews Kelley Gulledge, a former professional baseball player who overcame severe obstacles, including a crack cocaine addiction and a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Kelley shares his experiences from growing up in a baseball family, struggling with addiction during his career, hitting rock bottom, and finally achieving sobriety in 2006. He discusses the impact of his diagnosis in 2013 and the subsequent lifestyle changes he made to manage his MS.
Kelley also highlights the importance of family support, his renewed relationship with Jesus, and his dedication to helping others through sharing his story and working in the medical field. The episode is a testament to the power of redemption and the possibility of recovery against the odds.
A Promising Start
Kelley's journey began in a baseball family, surrounded by the game from an early age; he dreamed of playing professional baseball. Drafted out of high school but opting to attend college, Kelley thrived at the University of Alabama, ultimately entering the major leagues with the Minnesota Twins. However, behind the achievements and accolades lurked a growing darkness.
The Descent into Addiction
While Kelley's career was on the rise, his personal life began to spiral. Kelley recounts the beginning of his battle with crack cocaine addiction, which took root in 2001 and persisted for seven long years. The lifestyle of professional sports combined with a deep-seated struggle with substance abuse created a volatile mix, leading to harrowing experiences. Despite maintaining a façade of success on the field, Kelley’s addiction was consuming his life.
Hitting Rock Bottom
In 2006, Kelley hit rock bottom. A series of events, including failed drug tests and personal losses, culminated in a defining moment during spring training with the Cincinnati Reds. With support from his family, Kelley entered rehab where his battle truly began—a fight not just against addiction, but to rebuild himself from the ground up.
The Path to Redemption
Kelley’s recovery journey was far from easy. A profound realization of his own selfishness and the need for genuine change marked the turning point. Embracing recovery and spirituality, Kelley emerged from rehab determined to reclaim his life. He dedicated himself to sobriety, finding purpose and strength in faith and family.
Overcoming New Challenges
But life wasn’t done testing Kelley. In 2013, Kelley faced a new adversary: multiple sclerosis. While initially devastating, this diagnosis became another pivotal point for Kelley, who confronted it with the same resilience he had shown in his recovery. Through lifestyle changes and relentless determination, Kelley found a way to manage his MS and maintain his health.
Life After the Game
Kelley’s love for baseball never waned, and with newfound clarity and purpose, he returned to the sport, playing for an additional six years. Beyond the field, he channels his experiences into educating others about neurodegenerative diseases, working with Johnson and Johnson, and sharing his story to inspire change in others.
The Importance of Giving Back
Today, Kelley is a beacon of hope and redemption. He openly shares his journey with others, emphasizing the importance of giving back and helping those in need. Whether through direct engagement or sharing his testimony, Kelley continues to spread a message of possibility and resilience.
Conclusion
Kelley’s journey highlights that no matter how many times we fall, redemption is always within reach. His story serves as an inspiring reminder that with support, faith, and a willingness to change, anyone can overcome their darkest hours to live a life filled with purpose and connection. As Kelley reminds us, “It’s never too late to turn around and do the right thing.”
For those inspired by Kelley’s story and looking to connect with a supportive community, Andy invites listeners to join the Authentic AF Community, where real conversations and connections help foster authenticity and courage.
Tune In
Watch this episode on YouTube.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Enjoy Real Men Feel on Spotify
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Enjoy Real Men Feel on Spotify
Authentic AF Community | http://realmenfeel.org/group
Connect with Kelley
LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelley-gulledge-22845248/
Resources
The Wahls Protocol: A Radical New Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles →
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