On February 19, 2026, nationally recognized crisis coach and CNN Hero Scott H Silverman launched his long-anticipated podumentary "Building Heroes" in honor of Scott H Silverman Day, a day proclaimed by the San Diego City Council in 2008 to recognize his decades of service in addiction recovery and community leadership. The release marks a significant expansion of Silverman's advocacy, blending the intimacy of long-form conversation with documentary storytelling to offer an unfiltered look at his personal journey and the frontline realities of addiction, rehabilitation, and second-chance advocacy.
"On November 10, 1984, I wanted to end my own life," Silverman shares in the podumentary. "[It was] the only way I was going to be able to move forward — and there was no path forward, I felt." The episode drives home the message that lasting recovery begins with humility, accountability, and the courage to let go of control, themes central to Silverman's latest book, You're Not God — That Job Is Taken. Drawing on decades of frontline experience, the book offers direct, practical insight for individuals and families navigating addiction, crisis, and personal responsibility. It is positioned as a must-read not only for those facing addiction, but for anyone seeking clarity and growth.
Designed as a standalone feature and special podcasting event, "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 a day that already carries deep personal and civic meaning; Scott H Silverman Day 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, confronts stigma, and amplifies the voices shaping the future of addiction recovery. Silverman notes, "Three of the hardest words anyone can ever say out loud are: 'I need help.'" The podumentary aims to ensure no one has to say those words alone. To view "Building Heroes," visit the official program page. For additional information, media inquiries, or speaking engagements, visit Scott H Silverman's official website.
