By: Daniel Fusch
Justin Spearman has never downplayed the opportunities he was offered early in his career. At just 23, he was given the chance to buy and sell oil and gas leases with a family-owned company in Texas as a petroleum landman, which allowed him to not only gain financial success but also further experience with one of the most respected operators in the Permian Basin.
Unfortunately, the restlessness and disconnect he felt caused him to leave Texas. At the age of 25, he packed his bags to return home to his hometown of Winter Park, Florida, where his life slowly began to unravel.
The Beginning of a Spiral
Shortly after returning to Florida in February 2013, Spearman visited a local psychiatrist, who prescribed him Adderall for adult ADHD. Six weeks later, the psychiatrist doubled his prescription, thereby exceeding the FDA’s maximum recommended dosage at the time. What Spearman hadn’t anticipated was the risk of psychosis, especially alongside undiagnosed depression.
This depression haunted Spearman throughout the times he sold friends and family shares across the Permian Basin. The influence of Adderall, combined with what Spearman describes as a “deepening spiritual darkness,” ultimately changed his life.
Praying for a Change
At his lowest point, Spearman realized he had a decision to make: either spiral deeper into guilt or shame, or make a meaningful difference.
“I remember praying desperately for my heart to change, fully aware I couldn’t do it on my own,” Spearman says.
“[The] true change began when I stopped striving to follow the rules and instead pursued a genuine relationship with God,” Spearman adds. “The change of heart, not rule-following, was the key to transformation.”
A Transformative Experience
Spearman reshaped his outlook on life. With a renewed purpose to help others, he returned to North Carolina to be near his parents. His comeback in the oil and gas business led from one job to another, and as his reputation grew, he went on to manage products in almost every U.S. basin.
“I’ve worked long hours, often 13 to 14 hours a day and weekends, to rebuild my credibility,” Spearman shares. “I’ve never turned down a project I had the hours to complete. No deal was too small, too complex, or too tedious.”
Economic Redemption
Justin’s return to the oil and gas industry was not just a personal triumph but also served as a proving ground for his redemption. He worked tirelessly to rebuild his reputation in an industry known for its high barriers to entry.
Oil and gas, particularly in the Permian Basin, is an industry that demands credibility, expertise, and financial reliability: qualities that Justin had to regain after his past mistakes. His success in regaining clients and securing projects in major U.S. basins demonstrated his resilience and commitment to hard work.
By taking on projects of all sizes, he was able to prove his worth, rebuild his reputation, and show that redemption is not just about regaining personal freedom but about earning trust and respect through consistent, high-quality work.
Economic redemption became a symbol of his transformation, where business success was not just about financial gain but about earning back his integrity and honor.
In 2022, he joined the YoungLife Committee in Burke County, North Carolina. He now serves on the same committee in Fort Worth, Texas.
Reshaping Life Through Hardship
Spearman understands that the choices he has made have brought hardship not only to himself but also to others. He also understands that, through these hardships, he gained perspectives he wouldn’t have had otherwise.
“Your life is the cumulative result of your decisions—and by changing your mindset, you have the power to change your life,” Spearman says.
If Justin Spearman aims to share anything with his story, it’s that a person has the power to change their circumstances and unlock their full potential in the process.
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal journey of Justin Spearman and is for informational purposes only. It is not an endorsement of any product, service, or investment opportunity. The author and publisher do not endorse any specific company or individual mentioned. Legal matters referenced are historical and do not reflect his current status. Readers are encouraged to seek professional advice before making any financial decisions.
