Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Hester
Hi Justin, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born in Athens, TN, and in my early twenties, I began my career in law enforcement, working as a correctional officer before becoming a state-certified patrol officer in my hometown. I quickly fell in love with the thrill of the job and the opportunity to serve my community.
However, in 2009, my life took a devastating turn when I suffered a severe back injury, breaking my L1 and L2 vertebrae. That injury led me down a path I never could have imagined—an addiction to opioids that consumed my life. My dependence became so overwhelming that I abused my position, targeting individuals engaged in doctor shopping, pulling them over, and confiscating their prescriptions to fuel my own addiction.
In 2012, following an internal investigation, I was arrested by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and charged with official oppression, a Class E felony. The weight of shame and guilt was crushing, and rather than facing my reality, I sank deeper into addiction. I lost everything—my career, my reputation, and eventually, my home. I found myself homeless, drifting from couch to couch, and at times, sleeping on the very streets I had once sworn to protect.
By 2015, I had become a father—a moment that should have been my greatest blessing. But addiction had taken such a hold on me that I chose it over my own child. Instead of being present, instead of being the father she deserved, I remained trapped in my own selfish destruction.
2019 I eventually found myself at the Pinnacle Homeless Shelter in Scott County, Tennessee. It was there that the director urged me to seek treatment, securing a bed for me at Springs of Life Recovery for Men—a decision that would ultimately change my life.
God rescued me, saving my soul and renewing my purpose in life. During my residency, I had to learn how to restructure my thought process and develop healthier coping skills. The patterns that had once guided my decisions—rooted in addiction and self-destruction—had to be broken down and rebuilt from the ground up. It was a difficult process, forcing me to confront my past, take accountability, and embrace a new way of thinking.
I had to unlearn the habits that had kept me trapped and replace them with resilience, discipline, and self-awareness. Each day became a lesson in patience, humility, and growth. But it wasn’t just about staying clean—it was about renewing my mind through scripture, allowing God’s word to guide my thoughts, my choices, and my path forward.
After graduating from Springs of Life, I was given the opportunity to join the staff as a supervisor, leading a cleaning crew responsible for maintaining cabins at Ride Royal Blue ATV Resort. Over time, through dedication and hard work, I grew into a larger role. Today, I serve as the Operations Director, overseeing daily operations.
I am a devoted father, committed to providing physical, spiritual, and emotional support for Aleeyah. Recently, I married the love of my life, and together, we reached an exciting milestone—we purchased our first home. This journey has been one of growth, redemption, and new beginnings, and I am grateful for the life we are building together.
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?
Staying committed and maintaining integrity during difficult circumstances has been one of my greatest challenges. Perhaps the hardest part was navigating the process of restoring my relationship with my daughter—earning both her trust and her mother’s so I could be a part of Aleeyah’s life. Co-parenting in a healthy way wasn’t easy, but I knew that for my daughter’s sake, I had to remain steadfast. Even when things didn’t go as I had hoped, I chose to stay present, learning each day how to be the father she deserves.
Throughout my recovery, patience and persistence have been my greatest teachers. Change doesn’t happen overnight, and healing is never a straight path. There have been moments of doubt and times when progress felt painfully slow. But I’ve come to realize that patience allows me to trust the process, while persistence keeps me moving forward even when the road is difficult. Recovery has shown me that true growth comes from showing up every day, staying committed, and believing that every step—no matter how small—matters.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’ve been fortunate to walk alongside the men at Springs of Life, offering them hope and encouragement that recovery is possible. It’s been a blessing to share my journey and witness the transformation in others as they commit to rebuilding their lives.
In addition to overseeing daily operations, I also facilitate an evidence-based curriculum called “The National Fatherhood Initiative.” This program is designed to equip marginalized fathers with the skills they need to become more engaged, responsible, and committed to their children. By providing practical tools and guidance, we help these men strengthen their relationships, break unhealthy cycles, and step into the role of fatherhood with confidence and purpose.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Three mentors have played a pivotal role in my recovery: Cliff Branam, Alec Day, and Richard Ross. These men have walked with me, guiding me toward Jesus and showing me what true leadership and friendship are all about. They’ve invested in me, given generously of their time, and continually offered wisdom and support. Their impact has been immeasurable, shaping my personal growth and helping me become the leader my family needs.
In 2024, I married my beautiful wife, Stephanie, whose love, support, and encouragement are a constant reminder of God’s faithfulness. Together, we serve our community, reflecting Jesus’ love, truth, and grace, so that others may come to know Him.
Our daughter, Aleeyah, has been by my side through every high and low. Her love and patience have been a true blessing, and I am forever grateful that God has given me a second chance to be her father.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://springsoflifeinc.org/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/springsoflifeinc?
