We create a safe space for honest talks about addiction, trauma, mental health, and recovery. Every story is practical: what worked, what failed, and the small daily choices that build a life you’re proud of.
Former Google Exec, YouTube SEO & growth expert, Host of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning.
Louis Ruggiero
Co-Founder
Former CEO, Host of viral series Nothing’s Off the Table.
Kevin Lanning
Co-Founder
Former President, Epic Records & Republic Records. Built brands for Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, The Weeknd.
Our approach
The R.I.S.E. framework
R — Reflect
Tell the truth
Name what’s really happening—without shame or spin. Honesty is the first lever of change.
I — Identify
See the patterns
Spot triggers, cycles, and beliefs that keep you stuck. Replace them with better inputs.
S — Support
Don’t do it alone
Community, mentors, and accountability make recovery durable—and relapse less likely.
E — Execute
Daily reps
Tiny, repeatable actions—sleep, meetings, prayer/meditation, service—compound over time.
The story
About Kevin
Kevin Lanning is a former Google executive who’s been sober for 7 years. He started Rise Above to amplify real stories and practical tools that help people rebuild. The show launched in 2024 and releases new episodes twice a week.
Before — Years in tech leadership; high performance and hidden struggle.
Bottom — A breaking point that made change non-negotiable.
2018→ — Sobriety journey begins; mentors, meetings, and new habits.
2024 — Rise Above launches; long-form conversations centered on tools that work.
Today — Hosting the show, leading community meetings, and mentoring 1:1.