Nick - Four-Time Cancer Survivor, Terminal Uniqueness and Vegas Arrest

“First time I had cancer, I was scared. Second time, I was mad. Third time, I was relieved. I can drink what I want. Who wants to mess with a guy who has inoperable cancer?”

Nick’s resume reads like a work of fiction: Four-time cancer survivor. Motivational speaker. Arrested in Vegas for having sex with a hooker.

But what's truly fascinating about Nick’s story is how it mirrors the experiences of so many others—the universal quest for belonging, security, and love, juxtaposed with the desire to feel unique and special, which often creates a profound sense of separation.

In today’s episode, we explore:

• Terminal Uniqueness: How we use our perceived uniqueness to justify our actions and create separation, which can fuel addiction.
  

• The 'Me Against the World' Attitude: Why this mindset is a losing battle, given that someone loses and the world has been around for thousands of years.
  

• The Illusion of Strength: How building emotional armor might project power but often masks a victim mindset.
  

• Sobriety as a Daily Goal: Nick’s number one goal each year is to stay sober. Even after 10 years of sobriety, he starts every morning with that intention.
  

• Remorse vs. Shame: Understanding the difference and how Nick holds no shame for his past actions, as he no longer identifies with that person.

And let's give a shoutout to Nick, who celebrates 10 years sober on July 14th!

About Nick

After being thrown out of a Las Vegas hotel in a drunken haze, jeopardizing his career and relationships, Nick Klingensmith had to make a change. A 4-time cancer survivor, type-1 diabetic, recovering alcoholic with herniated discs, nerve damage and sleep apnea, he defies it all when he finds Obstacle Course Racing. Refusing to accept his limitations, he’s completed over 100 Spartan Races, 6 Major Marathons, several Ultras and scores of other obstacle and endurance events.

To learn more about Nick, visit https://www.stridemotivation.com/.

About Sober•ish Uprising

At Sober•ish Uprising we find freedom from alcohol on our own terms. Founded by Holly Krivokapich, a former heavy drinker who started a sober•ish uprising of her own and everything changed, we know it's not about saying no to the drink but saying yes to you. Holly works with 40ish, personal development junkies who are ready to put their sober curiosity into action, making it their next power move, and doing so with all the fun and none of the dread. Through our podcast, 1:1 coaching and her signature program The Sober•ish Experiment, we support those to create and live their own sober•ish journey.

www.soberishuprising.com