Episodios
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Brian, a person in long-term recovery, shares struggles with substance use that began in his teenage years, his journey through various treatments, and the pivotal moments that led him to seek a different path. Brian discusses his experiences with methadone and Suboxone, his involvement with the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR), and how he now gives back as a volunteer manager supporting others in their recovery journeys. His story is one of resilience, transformation, and the importance of community and hope in recovery.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Recovery Stories
02:34 Early Life and Struggles
04:29 Descent into Addiction
06:26 Realization and Attempts at Recovery
13:37 Overcoming Addiction and Finding Recovery
17:29 Life in Recovery and Giving Back
29:58 Advice for Those Struggling -
Betsy describes her journey from a turbulent childhood and early exposure to substance use to finding strength and purpose through faith and community support. Throughout her story, she details her personal struggles, the turning points that led her towards sobriety, and her work at the Connecticut Community For Addiction Recovery, an organization that played a key role in her recovery. By reflecting on her past and embracing her faith, Betsy illustrates how transformative recovery can be, especially when one discovers one’s true purpose and builds a supportive network.
00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome
00:38 Betsy's Recovery Journey Begins
01:52 Faith and Family in Recovery
02:42 Challenges of Young Parenthood
04:39 Generational Struggles and Personal Growth
06:26 Early Exposure to Alcohol and Toxic Relationships
15:09 College Struggles and Finding CCAR
16:24 Realizations and Changes at CCAR
20:08 Parenting and Recovery
26:43 Working with the Reentry Community
32:36 Final Reflections and Message to Young Women -
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Sam shares her inspiring journey of long-term recovery, having been clean since August 11, 2020. Sam recounts her early life in Connecticut, her struggles with addiction, and the turning point that led her to seek help during the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses her path through detox, rehab, and her commitment to the 12 Steps program. Sam also talks about rediscovering her passion for music, the importance of staying engaged in fun, sober activities, and her various roles in the recovery community, including her work as a peer support specialist and her creative outlets. Her story highlights the transformative power of recovery, community support, and personal growth.
00:00 Introduction and Recovery Milestones
01:32 Early Life and Struggles with Addiction
07:28 The Turning Point: Seeking Recovery
12:24 Entering Treatment and Early Sobriety
13:45 Life in a Sober House
15:32 Volunteer of the Year Award
15:44 First Job in Recovery
16:38 Music and Recovery
25:32 Fun Activities in Recovery
31:45 Identity and Recovery
35:58 Concluding Thoughts -
Bestselling author and national recovery advocate William Cope Moyers shares his journey of recovery, which began in 1989, and his unexpected encounter with prescribed pain medication in 2012. Despite having decades of sobriety and a wealth of recovery capital, Moyers struggled for a few years with addiction to painkillers following significant dental surgery. He highlights the complexities of addiction, the importance of anti-craving medications like Suboxone, and the stigma surrounding them. This episode explores Moyers' path to finding stability again and underscores the message that recovery is not a linear journey. His new book, “Broken Open: What Painkillers Taught Me About Life and Recovery” is out now!
00:00 Introduction and Shared Experiences
00:21 The Journey to Recovery
01:22 Defining Recovery and Sobriety
02:24 The Power of Belief and Hope
05:34 Founding of CCAR and Advocacy
09:35 Challenges and Misconceptions in Recovery
13:27 Struggles with Pain Medication
22:24 Recovery Capital and Its Importance
31:13 Hitting Rock Bottom Sober
31:44 Joining Al-Anon and Learning to Let Go
32:18 Struggling with Pain Meds and Redefining Sobriety
33:15 The God Box and Medallions
34:22 Consecutive vs. Cumulative Sobriety
38:07 Stigma Around Anti-Craving Medications
42:03 Multiple Pathways to Recovery
50:23 Personal Reflections on Life and Recovery
01:01:32 Overview of the New Book -
Shane shares his story of starting to drink at a young age, his college partying days, and the moment of clarity that led him to seek help. Despite numerous challenges, Shane's determination to overcome his addiction is evident. He discusses the importance of finding a personalized path to recovery and the role of sports and community outreach in his life post-recovery. The conversation highlights the power of the mind, the value of self-directed recovery, and the impact of helping others on one's own recovery journey.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:42 Shane's Early Drinking Days
02:17 College and Escalation
03:32 Turning Point and Seeking Help
05:51 Entering Rehab and Detox
07:21 Rehab Experiences and Realizations
09:20 Transition to Outpatient Program
11:21 Helping Others and Personal Growth
14:26 Navigating Sobriety in Daily Life
16:28 The Relentless Pursuit of Success
16:58 Transforming Relationships and Social Circles
17:30 Navigating Social Situations Sober
18:26 The Power of Mindset in Overcoming Addiction
19:05 Personal Stories of Rehab and Recovery
22:44 Replacing Bad Habits with Good Ones
27:49 Commitment and Discipline in Recovery
31:22 Final Thoughts and Future Goals -
Joe, who has been sober since November 11th, 2021, shares his story of battling addiction, the impact of early life experiences, and the moment of surrender that led him to recovery. Highlights include Joe's experience growing up in a family of drinkers, the trauma of losing his father, his transformative prison experiences, and how he has turned his recovery into a platform for giving back and inspiring others.
00:00 Introduction and Host Backgrounds
00:53 Joe's Journey into Recovery Coaching
03:37 Early Life and Family Struggles
06:48 The Impact of Loss and Addiction
15:08 The Turning Point: Surrender and Rebirth
17:39 The Turning Point: Making a Decision in Jail
18:42 Finding Faith and Surrendering to a Higher Power
20:01 Discovering AA and the 12 Steps
20:24 The Power of Gratitude and Journaling
21:40 Rebuilding Life After Prison
23:37 Engaging with CCAR and Recovery Coaching
27:23 Launching Big Joe Recovery
30:59 Living a Life of Integrity and Wellness
32:53 Final Reflections and Words of Wisdom -
In this episode of the Recovery Matters Podcast, host Phil welcomes Ahmed Abdel Aziz from Indivior, a global pharmaceutical company focused on addiction medicine. Ahmed introduces himself and discusses his passion for public health and addiction treatment. He highlights Indivior's commitment to transforming lives affected by substance use disorders, emphasizing the need to treat addiction as a disease, not a moral failing. Ahmed shares insights into common misconceptions about medication-assisted recovery and explains the importance of patient-centric and culturally competent care. They explore the evolving landscape of addiction recovery, including the potential of psychedelics and the principles of harm reduction. Ahmed also reflects on his personal journey and motivations for working in this field, rooted in early exposure to the pharmaceutical industry and personal experiences with friends affected by addiction. The conversation delves into broader societal perspectives on healthcare and the evolving role of big pharma in addressing public health challenges.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:19 Ahmed Abdel Aziz's Background and Indivior's Mission
01:33 Common Medications and Misconceptions
03:51 Ahmed's Personal Journey into Addiction Medicine
06:46 Family and Future Generations
08:46 Shifts in Addiction and Recovery Perspectives
12:37 Multiple Pathways to Recovery
22:10 Hot Topics: Psychedelics and Harm Reduction
29:27 Big Pharma and Population Health
36:41 Spirituality and Recovery Coaching
43:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -
On this week's Recovery Matters Podcast, Phil and Tommy Rosen discuss the current state of addiction treatment, with a focus on the over-reliance on medication. They reflect on their personal recovery journeys, highlighting the importance of 12-step programs, yoga, and other non-pharmacological methods to achieve lasting sobriety. Rosen shares his transformation through yoga and meditation, manifesting a broader vision of recovery beyond traditional methods. The conversation delves into the significance of offering multiple pathways to recovery, the impact of the addictive past, and the essential spiritual pursuit of purpose in life.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:52 Concerns About Medication in Addiction Treatment
02:21 Historical Perspective on Addiction Treatment
03:36 The Rise of Medication-Assisted Treatment
05:44 Personal Recovery Stories and Philosophies
14:48 The Role of Yoga in Recovery
22:21 Childhood Reflections and Hyperactivity
24:44 Reflecting on Childhood and Early Challenges
25:54 Struggles with Addiction and Substance Use
30:51 The Turning Point: Embracing Recovery
31:26 The Power of the 12 Steps
34:13 Relapse and Redemption
39:26 Exploring New Paths to Recovery
49:24 Finding Meaning and Purpose in Life
53:47 Conclusion and Future Plans -
Cameron, a Harm Reduction Coordinator, delves into the complexity of human behavior, societal structures, and the importance of humane treatment for individuals still using substances. They discuss philosophical and practical aspects of harm reduction, including the distribution of clean syringes and Narcan, drug checking, and the necessity of treating those with substance use disorders with dignity and respect. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the different paths to recovery and the vital role harm reduction plays in keeping communities safe.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Recovery Stories
00:47 Challenges and Turning Points in Recovery
05:04 Understanding Harm Reduction
08:59 Harm Reduction in Practice
12:40 The Importance of Compassion and Dignity
14:18 The Role of Harm Reduction in Public Health
25:16 Personal Reflections and Future Goals
39:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -
Michael celebrated one year of sobriety on June 24th, 2024. He delves into his deep-rooted battle with addiction. Michael details his life as an everyday meth user, starting at the age of 21, despite coming from a family with a history of substance use. He recounts his initial meth experience at an after-hours party in Fort Lauderdale and how he got entangled in a drug-fueled lifestyle that included sex clubs and parties. Michael shares his struggles with heroin and his transition into IV drug use, his relationships, and the domestic violence he endured, which led to contracting HIV. He speaks candidly about his eventually turning to escorting as a means of survival and how the COVID-19 lockdowns brought him back to the East Coast. The pivotal moment for Michael came when he received a federal target letter, prompting him to seek recovery. He discusses his path to sobriety, including attending meetings at CCAR, taking care of his aunt, and engaging in therapy. Michael's story is a testament to the resilience required to overcome addiction and the transformative power of recovery.
00:00 Introduction to TJ and Michael
00:08 Michael's Journey into Addiction
02:50 The Party Lifestyle and Meth
03:52 Experiences with Different Drugs
05:15 Struggles and Turning Points
14:25 Life in the Gay Community
25:05 Relationships and Domestic Violence
32:38 Path to Recovery
36:05 Finding New Pathways
39:12 Conclusion and Reflections -
James, an author, entrepreneur, podcaster, and life coach, shares his tumultuous journey dealing with substance use, injuries, and life's setbacks. He details how his fiancée and a spiritual awakening led him to sobriety, eventually becoming a motivational writer and recovery coach. With an emphasis on the importance of a supportive community, therapy, and spirituality, James highlights the transformative power of recovery and the impact of addressing both physical and emotional pain.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:43 James' Journey to Recovery
03:13 Overcoming Physical and Emotional Pain
05:19 Writing and Promoting Books
09:53 Spiritual Awakening and Recovery
15:03 Challenges and Lessons from the Streets
22:22 Turning Point and New Beginnings
23:01 Shared Experiences and Reflections
23:19 Challenges of Jail Life
24:14 Path to Recovery
24:37 Holistic Approach to Well-being
25:51 Importance of Community Support
26:29 Role of Recovery Coaching
27:24 Finding Purpose in Recovery
30:39 Consistency and New Habits
35:35 Volunteering and Community Engagement
37:05 Final Thoughts and Connection -
Jose shares his compelling journey from a troubled childhood in Puerto Rico and chaotic life in Bridgeport, CT, to a life led by addiction, criminal activity, and multiple incarcerations. He candidly discusses the trials of his youth, becoming a drug dealer, battling with heroin and crack addiction, and the impact it had on his family and personal life. The turning point came when he encountered recovery coaches from CCAR. With their support, Jose transformed his life, found purpose, reconnected with his family, and now dedicates himself to helping others in similar situations, illustrating the power and possibility of recovery.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:40 Jose's Early Life in Puerto Rico
00:54 Transition to the United States
01:22 First Encounters with Drugs
02:29 Descent into Addiction
02:50 Life on the Streets
08:20 First Incarceration and Aftermath
12:50 Struggles with Recovery
18:32 A Turning Point
21:41 Facing the Judge: A Heartfelt Plea
23:31 A Turning Point: The Power of Recovery Coaching
24:37 A New Beginning: Becoming a Volunteer
26:06 Learning and Growing: Embracing Recovery
33:59 Reconnecting with Family: Actions Speak Louder
37:56 The Power of Community: Finding Purpose
41:47 A New Addiction: Living and Loving Life
42:14 Final Thoughts: The Journey of Recovery -
Jake shares his initial struggles with addiction, multiple attempts at recovery, and the significant turning points that led him to a sustainable, fulfilling life in sobriety. They discuss the challenges of early recovery, the importance of honesty and authentic support, and how Jake eventually found contentment and purpose, including his work in the recovery space and achieving personal milestones like marriage.
00:00 Introduction and Host's Recovery Journey
00:19 Guest Jake's Recovery Story Begins
01:20 The Turning Point: Seeking Help
03:40 Challenges in Detox
12:36 Life in Residential Program
14:56 Conflict and Resolution
19:58 Relapse and Continued Struggles
21:09 Starting the Recovery Journey
22:11 Struggles and Realizations
23:42 Finding a New Path
27:51 Embracing Honesty
29:29 Building a New Life
35:10 Life Today and Reflections -
In this compelling episode of the Recovery Matters podcast, host TJ engages in an inspiring conversation with Craig M., a person in recovery who has been clean since April 19th, 2018. Craig shares raw and heartfelt details about his tumultuous past, including his discovery of being adopted, struggles with addiction, and multiple incarcerations. This story highlights the transformative power of recovery, the importance of building a supportive network, and the profound realizations that led Craig to embrace a new life. His journey from darkness to redemption is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the impact of a strong recovery community.
00:00 Introduction to TJ and Craig's Recovery Journey
01:08 Craig's Early Life and Adoption Revelation
03:57 Descent into Addiction and Legal Troubles
05:57 Struggles with Recovery and Relapse
09:59 Turning Point in Prison
19:05 Life in Prison and Recovery Program
24:51 Struggling with Addiction in Prison
25:44 A Turning Point: April 19th, 2018
27:04 Rejoining the Recovery Program
28:07 Fighting for Health and Recovery
28:58 Discovering CCAR and Peer Mentorship
30:29 Creating a New Life Plan
35:00 Overcoming Temptations and Staying Clean
43:22 The Importance of a Strong Network
44:38 Conclusion and Reflections -
In this episode of the Recovery Matters podcast, Celine recounts her struggles and ultimate surrender to addiction, a process that began with a tumultuous life marked by desperation and withdrawal symptoms. Her compelling story highlights the physical and mental challenges of finding a detox facility and the pivotal moment of divine intervention that led her to recovery. Celine also discusses her upbringing in a household affected by substance misuse, the emotional toll it took on her, and how she overcame familial and personal battles. The episode concludes with Celine reflecting on her meaningful recovery process, her ongoing relationship with her higher power, and her dedication to helping others as a recovery coach.
00:00 Introduction and Host's Background
00:19 Guest's Early Recovery Journey
01:26 Struggles and Turning Points
04:15 Desperation and Seeking Help
06:51 Finding Hope and Support
11:07 Temptation and Support in Recovery
14:01 Host's Temptation Story
15:06 Changes in Recovery Over Time
15:21 Guest's Childhood and Upbringing
15:28 Growing Up in West Hartford
16:02 Life with a Tricarious Mother
16:58 Childhood Trauma and Drug Exposure
20:05 Struggles with Alcohol
22:38 The Turning Point
26:44 Rebuilding and Recovery
32:53 Words of Encouragement -
In this emotional episode of the Recovery Matters podcast, host TJ chats with Jason, who shares the intense and harrowing story of his struggles with addiction and his path to recovery. Jason reveals his early start with substance use at the age of 12, driven by an abusive household, and his subsequent descent into the world of drugs and criminal activity. The narrative covers his multiple incarcerations, the lows of his addiction, moments of introspection, and pivotal turning points. Jason also talks about how he found a support system through Narcotics Anonymous, rediscovered his self-worth, and eventually turned his life around. This episode serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of recovery.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:30 Jason's Early Drug Use and Family Struggles
02:41 Life on the Streets and First Encounter with Cocaine
07:21 Living with a New Family and Deeper Involvement in Drugs
10:50 First Trouble with the Law and Juvenile Detention
14:16 Life in Juvenile Detention and Reinforced Addiction
17:52 The Halfway House Experience
18:19 A Counselor's Eye-Opening Advice
20:01 Struggles with Relapse
21:54 A Humbling Experience
23:33 A Turning Point
26:02 Starting Over
32:28 Recovery and Rediscovery -
In this episode of the Recovery Matters podcast, host TJ, a young person in long-term recovery, converses with Mike, who has been in recovery since March 5, 1984. Mike shares his journey, beginning with his struggles with alcohol from the age of 12, escalating during his time in the Air Force, and eventually leading to his turning point at 21. They discuss the role of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the importance of connection in recovery, and the concept of living one day at a time. Mike also opens up about his experience of coming to terms with his sexuality and the eventual acceptance from his family. Both TJ and Mike emphasize the significance of honesty, dealing with fear, and the support from peers in their recovery journeys. Mike reflects on the realization that most fears are unfounded and talks about the evolution of his personal identity while in recovery.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:31 Mike's Early Struggles with Alcohol
02:18 The Turning Point: Entering Recovery
05:12 The Importance of Connection in Recovery
05:29 TJ's Recovery Journey
07:46 Identity and Recovery
10:27 Living Authentically in Recovery
15:40 Overcoming Fear and Shame
18:34 Final Thoughts and Reflections -
Phil discusses his diagnosis of diffuse aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and his reflections on dealing with cancer for the second time, emphasizing his attempts to put affairs in order and contemplate the significance of life and the possibility of an afterlife. Jackie shares her story of being diagnosed with leukemia at 17, undergoing a bone marrow transplant, and facing various long-term side effects and subsequent cancer diagnoses. The conversation also explores their attitudes towards treatment decisions, the importance of self-care, and the support they've received from their community. Throughout, both exhibit a strong sense of resilience, focusing on living in the present, the therapeutic value of creating art, and the idea of legacy and impact on others.
00:00 A Heartfelt Conversation on Cancer and Resilience
02:32 The Second Battle: Doubts and Reflections
13:35 Navigating Treatment Choices and Embracing Uncertainty
18:52 Exploring Faith and Spirituality Through Cancer Recovery
22:06 Reflecting on Life's Challenges and the Journey of Recovery
22:19 Embracing Retirement and Passing the Torch
23:33 The Essence of Recovery and Self-Care
27:22 Personal Growth and Future Aspirations
34:41 The Healing Power of Community Support and Spirituality
38:37 Navigating the Side Effects of Treatment and Embracing Change -
In this raw and deeply personal conversation, previously recorded on 2/6/24, Sandy and Phil Valentine openly discuss Phil's cancer diagnosis and the impact it is having on their lives. As Phil is preparing to start chemotherapy for Non-Hodgkin's B Cell Lymphoma, they reflect on their experiences of Phil's previous bout with cancer in 2010. Sandy expresses her struggle with seeing her partner in pain again while Phil shares his contemplation on death, revealing spiritual questions and emotional fears. The couple discusses the importance of kindness, community and maintaining a strong support system. Through it all, they highlight the importance of recovery and their faith, reiterating their determination to stay resilient against cancer.
00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
00:06 Reflecting on Past Experiences with Cancer
01:35 Dealing with Emotions and Anger
02:27 Facing a New Diagnosis: Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
05:07 Understanding the Medical Process and Delays
05:44 Navigating the Healthcare System
07:54 Contemplating Mortality and the Afterlife
08:44 Facing the Possibility of Death
14:31 Dealing with Anger and Emotional Changes
18:18 Understanding the Treatment Regimen
18:46 The Four Quadrants of Health
21:16 The Role of Art in Coping
24:20 Facing Chemotherapy
30:34 The Impact on Family
33:00 The Power of Kindness
34:55 Coming to Terms with the Unknown -
Journey through Recovery: A Conversation with Dr. Rick Davila
In this podcast episode, Dr. Rick Davila shares his personal journey with recovery from alcohol addiction which started in October 1966, when he was only seven years old. He shares about his transformative years, the importance of 12-step recovery programs and his strong emphasis on AA meetings for his recovery. Davila explains his experience of transitioning from a troubled adolescent, a military stint and his struggle with heavy alcoholism to becoming a recovery coach. Despite his struggles, he emphasizes his commitment to helping others battling with addiction. He reflects upon the evolution of alcohol and drug rehabilitation treatment, and the emergence of multiple pathways to recovery beyond the traditional 12 step programs. Finally, he expresses his view on maintaining daily recovery wellness and his continued commitment to assisting others on their path to recovery.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation
00:05 Dr. Rick Davila's Early Life and Recovery Journey
01:13 Military Service and Struggles with Alcohol
02:33 Discovering Alcoholics Anonymous and Recovery Culture
04:04 The Struggles and Challenges of Early Recovery
07:27 Transition into the Field of Helping Others
08:14 The Impact of Ego and Power in Recovery
10:36 Returning to the Field and Overcoming Challenges
16:19 Maintaining Recovery and Giving Back to the Community
16:51 Reflections on Multiple Pathways to Recovery
20:17 Closing Remarks and Reflections - Mostrar más