Brandon Puffer reached the major leagues. Rebuilding his life required finding out who he was beyond baseball.
The former professional pitcher joins Jay and Gary to discuss the career he worked toward, the decisions that led to incarceration, and the life he began rebuilding afterward. Brandon speaks openly about alcohol, mental health, shame, and taking responsibility for his actions.
He describes the self-reflection and relationships that changed his perspective in prison, then the gradual work of returning to his community and helping others. The conversation asks what a second chance looks like when accountability and the possibility of change have to exist together.
What We Explore
* Reaching a childhood dream in professional baseball
* Identity beyond an athletic career
* Alcohol, mental health, and the cost of hiding struggles
* Brandon's account of incarceration and responsibility
* Finding perspective through connection and service
* Rebuilding a life and working with others
* Sharing a difficult story without leaving out the consequences
About Brandon Puffer
Brandon Puffer is a former professional baseball pitcher, coach, and speaker. He shares his experiences with career loss, incarceration, sobriety, and rebuilding his life.
Brandon: https://coachpuffpositive.com/ • https://www.instagram.com/coachpuffpositive/
Content note: Discussion of alcohol misuse, incarceration, and suicide.
The Tragedy Academy
Candid conversations exploring the human experience through tragedy and triumph.
Hosted by Jay Hicks and Gary DeFranco.
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