Breaking the Cycle of Alcoholic Fathers: Zac Swanton
Soberly Speaking20 Juli 2025

Breaking the Cycle of Alcoholic Fathers: Zac Swanton

All Zac ever wanted was to be his dad’s best friend.

As a kid, he longed for the kind of closeness he saw between his friends and their own fathers, but his own reality couldn’t have been more different.

Zac was known as the outgoing, loveable party boy — traits that gave his addiction a nod of approval to continue. After eight overdoses, toxic relationships, and a moment of deep embarrassment in front of his new partner, he knew he was heading down the exact same path as his father…

In this episode, we talk about father wounds, healing, and what it means to be a man when yours never showed you how.

Trigger Warning: we discuss themes of substance abuse in this episode.

Follow Zac on Instagram

Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au

Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.

The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015

https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline

Creator & Host- Julia Rangiheuea

Image & Logo- Jasmine Rule

In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.

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