This week, I'm honoured to welcome Rikki Morris to the couch. For many New Zealanders, Rikki needs no introduction. Musician, songwriter, producer... the list goes on. Rikki has spent decades shaping the soundtrack of Aotearoa and has worn many hats throughout an extraordinary career. More recently, Rikki rejoined legendary Kiwi band Th' Dudes. The band reunited in 2019 for their Hall of Fame induction, with a nationwide tour following shortly after. However, this conversation isn't really about the music. It's about the man behind it.We discuss how addiction first entered his life, what substance use looked like throughout the late 1970s, 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s, and the culture that surrounded it at the time. We explore the highs that kept him coming back, the devastating lows that followed, and the ways in which substance use gradually became woven into both his personal life and career.We also dive into the realities of the music industry during that time; the opportunities it brought, the pressures that came with it, and the environment that often fuelled destructive behaviours. Rikki reflects on the moments that felt exhilarating, the consequences that came with chasing that lifestyle, and the impact addiction had on both himself and those around him. Through stories of heroin and methamphetamine addiction, loss, survival and self-destruction, he paints an honest picture of what life really looked like behind the scenes, and what, back then, was simply the norm.But this conversation is about far more than addiction. It's about recovery, transformation and finding a new way to live. Rikki shares the turning points that changed the course of his life, the lessons he has learned along the way, and how he went from active addiction to becoming the husband, father and grandfather he is today. Now approaching 20 years clean and sober, his story stands as an epic reminder that no matter how far someone falls, recovery is possible.A massive thank you to you, Rikki. Your courage, wisdom, vulnerability and honesty made this an incredible episode. It was an absolute privilege to sit down on the couch with you, hear your story, and the insight you shared into the realities of addiction, recovery and life itself.Support the Rock Your Bottom podcast by subscribing, liking, and sharing it far and wide. You never know who might need to hear one of these conversations.❤️ - Leave me a comment on what you enjoyed most about the episode!You can listen to this episode on all platforms, wherever you get your podcasts.📲Follow us on socials to stay updated with what’s happening and who’s coming on next!TikTok: rockyourbottomofficialInstagram: rockyourbottomFacebook: Rock Your BottomIf you’re struggling, please know: YOU ARE NOT ALONE.📞 Alcohol and Other Drug Helpline: 0800 787 797📞 Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or txt: 4357📞Need to talk? Txt: 1737Want to get in touch?Email: rockyourbottomofficial@gmail.com
