The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast CNLP 171 | Jason Romano on Growing Up With An Alcoholic Dad and How Your Past Can Impact Your Present and Future
Dec 19, 2017
Jason Romano, former ESPN producer turned author and podcaster, shares his story of growing up with an alcoholic father and the long road to forgiveness. He discusses traumatic memories, how addiction shaped his identity and parenting, and the turning point that led to sobriety and reconciliation. The conversation highlights emotional complexity, boundaries, and the first practical steps toward healing.
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Daryl Strawberry Became A Longterm Mentor
- Jason connected deeply with Daryl Strawberry after meeting him at ESPN; both had experienced abuse and addiction and kept in touch for years.
- Strawberry wrote the book's foreword and repeatedly asked Jason about his father's well-being over time.
First Memory That Proved His Dad Was Dangerous
- Jason Romano's earliest traumatic memory was a 1984 NFL game where his drunk father became violent and vulgar in the stands.
- The four-hour drive home nearly spun the car out and convinced young Jason his dad was dangerous while intoxicated.
How An Alcoholic Parent Shapes Identity
- Growing up with an alcoholic parent shapes identity, leaving children without a model for manhood, fatherhood, or marriage.
- Jason avoided drinking entirely and vowed to be the opposite of his father, but still inherited habits like short tempers and sports-obsessed behavior.
