Brandon Novak went from homeless heroin addict to building sober housing and opening treatment centers without losing his skater DNA or humility. In this raw conversation, he explains why “recovery works so well you stop doing it,” how faith changed everything, and why our homelessness crisis isn’t just about the price of rent.
What you’ll learn
The obsession that powers skating can destroy you or save you (and how to aim it).
Why Novak says his breakthrough came on rehab #13 and what finally “took.”
The role of God/Higher Power and the 12 steps in creating a true psychic change.
“Money is a byproduct of solving real problems”how purpose first led him to build recovery housing and programs.
Homelessness: why addiction + mental health drive the crisis more than housing alone.
Standout moments
“No human power can lift the obsession” on surrender and finally getting honest.
“The better my life gets, the higher the relapse risk” (and how he counters it).
Skateboarding as meditation: why a slammed trick beats a $2,000 dinner for peace of mind.
What he’s building now
A new licensed New Jersey outpatient facility (opened last week), plus 7 houses / 70 beds supporting clients in recovery.
Need help? Brandon invites anyone struggling to reach out directly: brandonnovak.com.