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Home - Podcast Review: “Blink” — Jake Haendel’s Journey from Addiction and Locked-In Syndrome to Advocacy 
RECOVERY PODCASTLAND

Podcast Review: “Blink” — Jake Haendel’s Journey from Addiction and Locked-In Syndrome to Advocacy 

Carolyn BunnBy Carolyn BunnSeptember 20, 20253 Mins Read
BLINK THE BINGE addiction podcast Jake Haendel
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I’m not really a true crime junkie, but every once in a while a podcast comes along that I just cannot stop listening to. That was the case with “Blink,” the 12-part series that tells the unbelievable but true story of Boston chef Jake Haendel. 

After heavy drug use, Jake developed a rare condition called toxic progressive leukoencephalopathy. Doctors gave him six months to live, and soon after, he slipped into what looked like a vegetative state. For the next nine to ten months, he was fully conscious but completely unable to move or speak — a terrifying “locked-in” reality where everyone around him thought he was brain-dead. 

Miraculously, Jake eventually found a way to communicate through tiny wrist movements and eye blinks, slowly proving he was still there. Today, though he uses a wheelchair, he has become a passionate advocate for others navigating trauma, disability and recovery. 

BLINK THE BINGE addiction podcast

Why Blink Hooked Me 

While it’s listed under “true crime,” this podcast is really about survival, resilience and second chances. I binged all 12 episodes and found each one absolutely riveting. The way the story unfolds keeps you hooked, and by the end, you can’t help but marvel at Jake’s determination to come back from the brink. 

Here’s a quick episode-by-episode breakdown of what stood out to me: 

  • Episodes 1–3: We learn about Jake’s life before everything changed — his career as a chef, his struggles with addiction and the moment everything went wrong. These early episodes set the stage and immediately make you realize how quickly life can take a turn. 
     
  • Episodes 4–6: This is where the “locked-in” reality sets in. Jake describes what it was like to be fully aware but utterly voiceless, hearing people talk around him as though he wasn’t there. These episodes are hard to listen to at times but incredibly powerful. 
     
  • Episodes 7–9: Small flickers of hope appear. The moment he learns to signal through tiny movements feels like a triumph, both heartbreaking and inspiring. These episodes explore the patience and persistence it took for his family and therapists to realize he was still there. 
     
  • Episodes 10–12: The final episodes focus on his slow return to communication, the long process of rehabilitation and his new life as an advocate. By the end, you feel both exhausted from the weight of his journey and energized by his strength. 
     

Why You Should Listen 

If you’re drawn to stories of overcoming the impossible — or if you just want a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit — “Blink” is worth every minute. It’s not a sensationalized “true crime” story; it’s a human survival story told with depth and honesty. 

🎧 Highly recommend: “Blink” – Jake Haendel’s Story 

Recovery Podcastland Sobees Score: 5 out of 5

Recovery Podcastland The Sobees Score 5 out of 5

“Blink” on Apple podcasts

“Blink” on Spotify


RECOVERY PODCASTLAND & NETWORK at The Sober Curator is your audio haven for all things sobriety and recovery. We’re your bee-zy sober podcast enthusiasts, curating the best shows that educate, inspire, and entertain in the alcohol-free space.

Our archives are neatly organized so you can easily explore Recovery Podcastland—featuring our favorite recovery-based podcasts from across the globe—and the TSC Podcast Network, where we share our own original shows on sober lifestyle, pop culture, travel, entertainment, and more.

Whether you’re seeking practical recovery tips, personal stories, or uplifting inspiration, this is your go-to listening guide.


The Bear Season 4 TV Series Review The Sober Curator
The Bear Season 4 TV Series Review The Sober Curator

THE MINDFUL BINGE: The Bear Season 4: A Masterclass in Amends (and Maybe the Last Course We Needed)


All the cool kids go to rehab…

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If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.

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Carolyn Bunn
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Carolyn Bunn is a Seattle-based marketing expert with love for travel. Her passion for helping women in business was born after she got sober in 2019 and realized clinging to the corporate ladder wasn't for her. On the side, she runs a travel blog to document her and her partner's adventures and shows that you can have a fantastic trip without the booze!

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