Scott H Silverman, a nationally recognized crisis coach and CNN Hero, today premieres his long-anticipated podumentary, "Building Heroes," on Scott H Silverman Day, a day proclaimed by the San Diego City Council in 2008 to honor his decades of service in addiction recovery and community leadership. The release blends intimate long-form conversation with documentary storytelling, offering an unfiltered look at Silverman's personal journey and the realities of addiction, rehabilitation, and second-chance advocacy.
"On November 10, 1984, I wanted to end my own life," Silverman shares. "[It was] the only way I was going to be able to move forward — and there was no path forward, I felt." This raw honesty underscores the podumentary's mission to confront stigma and amplify voices shaping the future of addiction recovery.
Silverman's latest book, You're Not God — That Job Is Taken, reinforces the same hard-earned message at the heart of "Building Heroes": lasting recovery begins with humility, accountability, and the courage to let go of control. Drawing on decades of frontline experience, the book offers practical insight for individuals and families navigating addiction, crisis, and personal responsibility. It is a must-read not only for those facing addiction but for anyone seeking clarity and growth.
Released as a premiere special, "Building Heroes" is positioned to stand on its own as a defining entry in the emerging podumentary space, but momentum is already building toward a broader vision. "We approached this as a one-episode event," Silverman added, "but the response and the need for these conversations make it clear — this could very well grow into a full series. There are too many stories left to tell."
The debut arrives on Scott H Silverman Day, which has since 2008 served as an annual recognition of Silverman's work supporting individuals and families in crisis through workforce development, treatment navigation, and recovery advocacy. With "Building Heroes," that mission expands into media, delivering a platform that educates and confronts stigma. "Three of the hardest words anyone can ever say out loud are: 'I need help,'" Scott adds. And with "Building Heroes," he makes sure no one has to say those words alone.
To view "Building Heroes," visit the official program page. For more information about Silverman's book or speaking engagements, visit his website.
