Cleveland bartender uses road to sobriety as motivation for others in the hospitality business

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - In 2016, a former restaurant manager was struggling with his addiction to alcohol.

“I know exactly the kind of person I was. I mocked sobriety when I was drinking that much,” said Tony Kost.

Today, seven years sober, Kost said he lives a happy, healthy life.

Kost now works as a bartender and said he is using his recovery to help other hospitality workers.

Every Wednesday, Kost helps lead the Ben’s Friends meetings at Porco Lounge & Tiki Room on W. 25th Streeet.

“It’s always the best day of our week. I always leave here feeling empowered.” said Kost.

According to the American Addiction Centers, 11.8% of food service workers reported binge drinking during the last month and 17% of food service workers have been diagnosed with a substance abuse disorder.

“It’s hard to be in an industry that’s so immersed in booze and that party lifestyle at times and admit that you have a problem,” said Kost.

A constant reminder to Kost to keep pushing to create a healthy community for himself and others.

“I think Ben’s Friends for our food and Beverage people, and anybody really does an amazing job of offering that community,” said Kost.

You can visit Ben’s Friends website if you are interested in attending a meeting.