Surviving Divorce, Addiction, & Darkness: Author David E. Feldman on Men’s Healing Journey || DPTSP #130 || David M. Webb

29min | 11/26/2025

Description

Welcome back to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast! 🎙️ In this powerful episode, I’m joined by David E. Feldman—a prolific author, musician, painter, and living testament to the power of transformation. Whether you’re a man over 40 navigating the painful aftermath of divorce or anyone seeking inspiration to rise above life’s darkest moments, you’re in the right place.

Who is David E. Feldman?

David’s life reads like one of his own mystery novels. He’s the author of 15 books, including the Dora Ellison and Hammer and Sharp series, but his greatest masterpiece is his journey from the brink. After 31 years of sobriety, surviving addiction, cancer, depression, spinal surgeries, and so much more, David has emerged stronger and more creative than ever.

Why Should Men Over 40 Listen?

Let’s face it—midlife divorce can feel like a knockout punch. The world tells us to ‘man up,’ but what do you do when you’re left with pain, regret, and a broken sense of purpose? David shares not just his survival, but how he turned trauma into triumph. His story proves it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

How to Turn Pain Into Power: David’s turning point came when he realized his pain could be transformed into purpose. Discover practical steps to start your own healing journey.
The Role of Creativity in Recovery: Whether it’s writing, music, or painting, David explains how channeling pain into creative outlets can be life-changing.
Finding Your ‘Why’ After Divorce: Learn why reconnecting with your passions—what you loved as a kid—can be the key to moving forward.
The Value of Community: From 12-step recovery groups to simply reaching out, David highlights why support and helping others are essential for men rebuilding after divorce.
Coping with Depression and Isolation: David opens up about his battles with depression, offering hope and real strategies for those who feel alone in their struggle.

Are You Ready to Rewrite Your Story?

No matter how dark things seem, you have the power to rebuild and thrive. David’s resilience is proof that your greatest struggles can become your greatest strengths. Whether you’re facing addiction, depression, or the heartbreak of divorce, you’re not alone—and your best days can still be ahead.

👇 Join the Conversation! 👇

What part of David’s journey resonated most with you? Have you found a creative or community outlet that helped you heal after divorce? Drop your thoughts, questions, or your own recovery story in the comments below! Let’s build a community of men supporting men—because healing is better together. 💬

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 for more real talk and inspiration for men over 40.

#DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #DontPickTheScab #Podcast #DavidEFeldman #AddictionRecovery #Inspiration

Supercharge your Divorce Recovery this Holiday Season!

-https://bit.ly/4iQNpfs\

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About DON'T PICK THE SCAB PODCAST

Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.

Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.

Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.

Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.

This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.

Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About DON'T PICK THE SCAB PODCAST

Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.

Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.

Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.

Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.

This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.

Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Description

Welcome back to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast! 🎙️ In this powerful episode, I’m joined by David E. Feldman—a prolific author, musician, painter, and living testament to the power of transformation. Whether you’re a man over 40 navigating the painful aftermath of divorce or anyone seeking inspiration to rise above life’s darkest moments, you’re in the right place.

Who is David E. Feldman?

David’s life reads like one of his own mystery novels. He’s the author of 15 books, including the Dora Ellison and Hammer and Sharp series, but his greatest masterpiece is his journey from the brink. After 31 years of sobriety, surviving addiction, cancer, depression, spinal surgeries, and so much more, David has emerged stronger and more creative than ever.

Why Should Men Over 40 Listen?

Let’s face it—midlife divorce can feel like a knockout punch. The world tells us to ‘man up,’ but what do you do when you’re left with pain, regret, and a broken sense of purpose? David shares not just his survival, but how he turned trauma into triumph. His story proves it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

How to Turn Pain Into Power: David’s turning point came when he realized his pain could be transformed into purpose. Discover practical steps to start your own healing journey.
The Role of Creativity in Recovery: Whether it’s writing, music, or painting, David explains how channeling pain into creative outlets can be life-changing.
Finding Your ‘Why’ After Divorce: Learn why reconnecting with your passions—what you loved as a kid—can be the key to moving forward.
The Value of Community: From 12-step recovery groups to simply reaching out, David highlights why support and helping others are essential for men rebuilding after divorce.
Coping with Depression and Isolation: David opens up about his battles with depression, offering hope and real strategies for those who feel alone in their struggle.

Are You Ready to Rewrite Your Story?

No matter how dark things seem, you have the power to rebuild and thrive. David’s resilience is proof that your greatest struggles can become your greatest strengths. Whether you’re facing addiction, depression, or the heartbreak of divorce, you’re not alone—and your best days can still be ahead.

👇 Join the Conversation! 👇

What part of David’s journey resonated most with you? Have you found a creative or community outlet that helped you heal after divorce? Drop your thoughts, questions, or your own recovery story in the comments below! Let’s build a community of men supporting men—because healing is better together. 💬

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 for more real talk and inspiration for men over 40.

#DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #DontPickTheScab #Podcast #DavidEFeldman #AddictionRecovery #Inspiration

Supercharge your Divorce Recovery this Holiday Season!

-https://bit.ly/4iQNpfs\

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About DON'T PICK THE SCAB PODCAST

Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.

Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.

Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.

Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.

This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.

Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About DON'T PICK THE SCAB PODCAST

Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.

Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.

Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.

Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.

This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.

Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

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