Today we’d like to introduce you to Brent Nowak

Hi Brent, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?

I spent nearly two decades battling addiction, a struggle that took a toll on every aspect of my life—my relationships, self-esteem, and sense of purpose. Hitting rock bottom was my wake-up call, and I made the decision to get sober. It wasn’t easy, but it was the most important choice I’ve ever made.

Along the way, I was fortunate enough to meet a group of individuals who believed in me and saw potential I couldn’t yet see in myself. They gave me the opportunity to work in treatment, and that’s where everything changed.

What started as a job quickly became a calling. I discovered my passion for helping others walk the same path of recovery I had traveled. Seeing people reclaim their lives, reconnect with their families, and find hope again—it’s the most rewarding work I can imagine.

Today, I’m proud to say I’m living a life of purpose, not just for myself but for others. My journey taught me that recovery isn’t just about getting clean; it’s about finding your passion, giving back, and building a life worth living. That’s what keeps me going every day.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

Yes and no. There have definitely been challenges, but I see them as opportunities to grow and push myself further. Early on, the hardest part was letting go of my old ways and embracing a completely new way of living. Recovery requires you to face everything you once tried to escape, and that can be tough. But with every hurdle, I found strength I didn’t know I had.

Transitioning into working in treatment was another big learning curve. Supporting others through their recovery journeys is deeply rewarding, but it also comes with emotional highs and lows. Balancing my passion for helping others with my own self-care was a challenge I had to navigate.

What I’ve learned, though, is that every obstacle has taught me something invaluable. Those tough moments forced me to grow, adapt, and build resilience. So while the road hasn’t always been smooth, I wouldn’t trade the challenges—they’re part of what’s shaped me into the person I am today

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

I work for Shine A Light in community relations, which is where I truly thrive. My role gives me the autonomy to operate in a space where I can create meaningful resources for the clients we serve. Whether it’s connecting individuals with the support they need or building partnerships to expand our impact, I get to be part of something bigger than myself.

What sets me apart is my ability to bring creativity into this work. As an artist, I approach challenges with a unique perspective, finding innovative ways to engage the community and meet our clients where they are. It’s about creating a whole new medium within the work we do—one that combines empathy, imagination, and practical solutions.

What I’m most proud of is the ability to use my own journey to inspire hope in others. I’ve been where many of our clients are, and I know how transformative the right support and resources can be. Knowing that my work has the power to change lives is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to keep pushing boundaries.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?

My biggest advice is to get connected with people who are willing to mentor you. Surround yourself with individuals who inspire you and who have the experience to guide you. Their insights can make all the difference as you navigate your journey.

Also, never underestimate the power of doing the extra work—whether it’s staying late, lending a helping hand, or simply listening when someone needs it. You never know what a small act of kindness can mean to someone, whether it’s in a professional capacity or on a personal level.

Stay open, stay humble, and always be willing to give a little extra.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.shinealightlv.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brentjohnnowak/