EPISODE 117: Reinvention and Resilience – Tom Matlack’s Tale of Transformation

Welcome back to Warriors Unmasked - The Podcast!

Welcome to another episode of Warriors Unmasked. Tom Matlack’s life journey is as
compelling as it is tumultuous. From facing death twice—once through addiction and later
on the brink of suicide—to ascending the corporate ladder as the CFO of a Fortune 500
company, Tom’s story is a testament to resilience and determination.

Behind every accolade lies a tale of inner conflict. By 2018, despite a storied professional
life, Tom felt a spiritual void so profound that it pushed him to the precipice of despair. But
through sheer willpower, by 2021, he pivoted to dedicating his life to assisting men in
overcoming addiction. Observing the wider mental health crisis affecting males in America,
he’s now on a mission to uplift and support them.

Away from the limelight, Tom’s personal life is filled with both triumphs and challenges.
Married to Elena for 20 years, they’ve nurtured their three children amidst life’s storms.
Kerry, their eldest, is on the cusp of graduating from Georgetown Law. Seamus, their second
child, courageously serves as an Army Ranger. Meanwhile, Cole, the youngest, is a national
oarsman set to row for Brown University.

In this episode, Tom opens up about these trials, reflecting on the duality of professional
success and personal struggle. While Tom acknowledges his imperfections as a father, he’s
steadfast in his commitment. His children are a testament to his efforts, each forging their
own path of success. He recalls moments, like feeding his newborn son, that brought clarity
to his life.

Tom’s journey is a beacon for all who face life’s adversities. It serves as a reminder that with
introspection, perseverance, and support, one can rise from the depths of despair to the

pinnacle of success. Eager to dive deeper into his story? Hit play now for more on this

incredible journey.

Always in your corner,

Clint and Chuck

Trigger warning: In this episode, our guest shares his journey with alcoholism and suicide. If
you or someone you love has recently experienced the tragic loss to suicide, please feel free
to skip this episode during your healing process. We have 100+ other powerful
conversations to enjoy at http://www.warriorsunmasked.com

EPISODE MINUTE BY MINUTE

00:00 Introduction from Chuck + messages from our sponsors
02:36 Welcome special guest, Tom Matlack
03:52 Dive into the backstory of Tom’s life and where his journey began
05:35 The beginning to a life of addiction for Tom
07:19 The consequences of becoming an alcoholic
08:19 Alcoholism acts as a bandaid for anxiety and shame and becomes a vicious cycle
09:42 A look into Tom’s life after school and into his career
11:21 Tom talks about his draw to the business world and the success that came with it
12:49 How the struggle with alcoholism began to impact Tom’s life and family
15:04 Tom’s realization of being an alcoholic and deciding to change his life for his kids
16:51 Tom talks about what it’s like to have a hole in your soul without spirituality
18:51 Tom shares his journey of becoming sober again and the desire to be a good father
21:43 Tom talks about being transparent with his kids and helping them walk through life
24:30 Tom’s journey back to success and fall back into anxiety and suicidal thoughts
25:10 At the lowest point of his life, Tom shares a spiritual experience that broke his ego
26:26 Tom’s experience at the mental hospital and love for the people who saved his life
28:50 Tom’s journey back into society after mental health care
30:27 Tom has a spiritual awakening that brought on permanent change in his life
32:35 Working with young men in addiction and the bond that Tom has formed with them
33:45 Tom talks about the gratitude that he has today from all of his experiences
35:28 The journey of self reflection and the emotions that come with that
38:49 Tom shares more about the work that he does today with young men who are in danger
41:26 The impact of men becoming more self aware and willingness to reconnect
45:31 Tom shares how he keeps his mind healthy and in good spirits today
48:51 Tom gives his final advice to young men who are struggling in life