Real Recovery Podcast

RRP Episode 89 – Billy B: From Binge Drinking to a Lifetime of SobrietyPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1:11:00SummaryBilly B joins Julie and Peter for an honest conversation about the final years of his drinking and the turning points that led him toward long-term sobriety. He describes how binge drinking evolved into overpowering two-day hangovers, how losing precious time forced a reckoning, and how recognizing the family disease pushed him to quit for his four-year-old son, Joey. Billy recalls the night he saw “three crescent moons,” his first painful hangover, quitting alcohol but continuing to smoke marijuana, and the moment a single offer of scotch pulled him into one last destructive spree. He shares the story of finding his way into AA, the early transformation he experienced there, and the personal insights that continue to guide his recovery today.Key Points with Time Stamps[00:20:48] Billy explains that in the last years of his drinking, he was a binge drinker who drank simply to get drunk, often leading to severe two-day hangovers.[00:21:12] Losing large chunks of time to hangovers pushes Billy to realize he could be living differently.[00:21:33] He shares that he quit drinking for his four-year-old son, Joey, recognizing he was repeating the same family disease he grew up around.[00:22:00] Billy recounts his first two-day hangover after drinking so much beer that he joked he “no longer had blood” in his body.[00:22:25] He recalls stepping onto his balcony during that same night and seeing a crescent moon—actually three of them—because of how intoxicated he was.[00:23:01] After quitting alcohol, Billy continues to smoke marijuana, which he openly admits he loved.[00:23:18] When a friend offers him “Cutty Sark on the rocks,” he cannot resist. This triggers his final spree, lasting from late summer 1985 until Christmas 1986.[00:24:03] After a Christmas hangover, Billy calls AA. He takes the number 20 Burnside bus to his first meeting at the Live and Let Live Club.[00:24:26] Billy and Julie discuss the meeting’s location at 24th and Ankeny and the impact that early meeting spaces had on their journeys.[00:25:20] Julie and Billy talk about the physical transformation that happens in early sobriety—the “30-day look” and “90-day look”—and how noticeably people change.[00:30:25] Billy explains he rarely had full blackouts—more often “brownouts”—but generally remembered his episodes.[00:51:13] Billy reflects on the dangers of “stinking thinking,” explaining how AA meetings help interrupt the patterns of self-pity and comparison that can lead him back into unhealthy mental places.[00:51:17] He emphasizes that resentments are temporary, and recognizing that helps keep him grounded in long-term recovery.LinksListen: https://mdcr1.com/89Blog: https://mdcr1.com/89bReal Recovery Podcast: https://www.realrecoverypodcast.comQuote“I think it’s important to realize that any resentment I have is temporary, but this is long term.” – Billy BHashtags & Mentions#RealRecoveryPodcast #RecoveryJourney #SobrietyStories #AddictionRecovery #HopeAndHealing #AA #LongTermSobriety #BingeDrinkingRecovery @RealRecoveryPodcast

RRP Episode 88 – Phoenix G: From Childhood Pain to Purpose in RecoveryPresenters: Peter and ColetteLength: 1 hour, 1 minuteSummary:In this deeply honest conversation, Peter and Colette sit down with Phoenix G., whose recovery story spans six decades of struggle, reflection, and redemption. Phoenix shares his earliest memories of alcohol use at just three years old, the physical punishment he endured growing up, and the emotional isolation that followed him into adulthood. Despite the pain, his story turns toward hope — through the fellowship of AA, the Lunch Bunch meetings, and the spiritual awakening that comes from showing up, doing service, and learning to live with honesty.Phoenix reminds us that it’s never too late to heal. At sixty-three, he’s built a sober life grounded in humility, humor, and gratitude — from serving as a meeting secretary to sponsoring others and finding strength through community.“Every time I show up, I stay sober one more day. That’s the miracle.” — Phoenix G.Episode Highlights (with time codes):[00:04:48] Phoenix shares how he found the Lunch Bunch and the recovery community that became his family.[00:06:26] His earliest memory of alcohol at age three — “It doesn’t take much to get a three-year-old drunk.”[00:07:00] Recalling the physical abuse he experienced as a child and how it shaped his fears.[00:19:50] Phoenix reflects on maintaining sobriety and setting boundaries to protect it.[00:20:13] How ending a marriage became a necessary step to preserve his recovery.[00:40:14] The role of service — from showing up to secretary duties at multiple meetings.[00:45:24] What he’s learned from sponsorship, relapse, and the power of connection.[01:00:57] Julie returns for closing remarks, highlighting gratitude and continued community support.Links to Websites Discussed:Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)Lunch Bunch / Extended Family AA OnlineReal Recovery PodcastQuote:“Every time I show up, I stay sober one more day. That’s the miracle.” — Phoenix G.Listen & Learn More:🎧 Listen to Episode 88📝 Read the Blog PostHashtags & Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryJourney #AA #12StepRecovery #SobrietyStories #HealingInRecovery #ResilienceAndHope #CommunitySupport #LunchBunch @RealRecoveryPodcast

RRP Episode 87 – Max K: Breaking the Cycle - Relapse, resilience, and the daily work of staying soberPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 7 minutesSummaryIn this episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, Max K returns to share his deeply personal story of relapse, renewal, and resilience. His honesty shines through as he talks about what it takes to rebuild a life that has been torn apart by addiction. From confronting denial to embracing accountability, Max reveals how structure, humility, and connection helped him turn repeated setbacks into growth. His story is an unfiltered look at what recovery really means—daily effort, self-awareness, and learning to start over without giving up.Key Points with Time Stamps[00:01:15] Julie introduces Max K and sets the stage for a conversation about perseverance in recovery.[00:03:52] Max describes the cycle of relapse and how it nearly cost him everything.[00:11:40] Learning to accept accountability and take ownership of his actions.[00:20:25] The importance of rebuilding trust with family, friends, and himself.[00:33:18] Realizing that true recovery is more than sobriety—it’s living with honesty.[00:45:10] How service work and community connection became his foundation.[00:56:42] Reflecting on gratitude, humility, and staying teachable in long-term recovery.[01:04:09] Max shares closing thoughts on the daily work it takes to stay free.Quote“You can’t fix what you won’t face. Once I stopped pretending everything was fine, that’s when real recovery started.” — Max KLinks🎧 Listen: https://mdcr1.com/87📝 Blog Post: https://mdcr1.com/87b🌐 Visit: Real Recovery PodcastConclusionMax K’s story captures the essence of recovery—honesty, effort, and community. His willingness to share both his struggles and his victories reminds us that relapse doesn’t define failure; refusing to give up defines recovery. This episode is a raw and hopeful reminder that progress happens one honest day at a time.Hashtags & Mentions#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #BreakingTheCycle #RelapseAndResilience #RecoveryJourney #HonestyAndHope #CommunitySupport #SobrietyStories #HopeAndHealing #Resilience #DailyRecoveryWork

RRP Episode 86 – Jonah’s Journey ContinuesPresenters: Peter and ColetteLength: 53 minutes 54 secondsSummaryIn RRP Episode 86 – Jonah’s Journey Continues, Peter reunites with Jonah W, whose story first inspired listeners in RRP Episode 16: Jonah W’s Journey of Resilience, Courage, and the Transformative Power of Recovery. Joined by guest host and board member Colette, Peter checks in more than a year later to hear how Jonah’s life has grown through faith, service, and daily recovery.Once unable to keep a shelter bed, Jonah now lives independently, works full-time, and maintains a loving relationship. His story shows how gratitude, honesty, and community can turn despair into peace and purpose.Episode Highlights (with Time Codes)[00:04:25] Reconnecting with Jonah – Peter welcomes guest host Colette and recalls Jonah’s first interview recorded at Another Chance Treatment Center.[00:05:47] From Hopelessness to Stability – Jonah describes moving from homelessness to his own apartment and caring for his new cat, Gizmo.[00:08:02] Finding Peace and Routine – Faith, nature, and structure bring calm and steady footing.[00:09:58] Work and Gratitude – Jonah celebrates a year at Whole Foods and being valued at work.[00:11:03] The Gift of Hopelessness – How despair became the turning point that opened the door to help.[00:12:26] Community and Love – Colette recalls how early support carried Jonah through his first weekends of sobriety.[00:13:44] Learning to Let Go – Jonah finds compassion for his past self and acceptance in recovery.[00:16:16] Simple Joys – Weekly pie-and-coffee meetings with his sponsee become a symbol of gratitude.[00:18:09] Service and Growth – Jonah becomes Alt-GSR for his online home group and attends his first area assembly.[00:20:13] Making Recovery a Lifestyle – Peter and Jonah discuss integrating sobriety into everyday life.[00:23:32] Morning Routine – Reading, journaling, and prayer provide structure and serenity.[00:26:08] Restored Relationships – Amends and forgiveness replace resentment.[00:29:23] Sponsorship – Jonah describes the joy of guiding newcomers in recovery.[00:35:18] Receiving and Giving Back – Community generosity helped furnish his apartment; now he gives freely “for fun and for free.”[00:36:06] Becoming Self-Supporting – Paying bills, managing insurance, and embracing adulthood mark major milestones.[00:40:12] Love as the Foundation – A sponsor reminds him, “It wasn’t effort — it was love.”[00:44:38] Living One Day at a Time – Jonah, Peter, and Colette apply recovery principles to everyday challenges.[00:49:43] Recovery as a Way of Life – Instinct now leads Jonah toward meetings and connection; sobriety has become second nature.Quote“The hopelessness saved my life—it got so dark before the dawn. I didn’t know how to stop, but I got so much more than I ever expected.” – Jonah WLinks🎧 Listen: https://mdcr1.com/86📝 Blog: https://mdcr1.com/86b🌐 Another Chance Treatment Center🌐 Real Recovery PodcastConclusionJonah’s transformation shows that recovery is more than the absence of addiction—it’s the daily presence of love, honesty, and community. From once being lost to now living with gratitude and purpose, his journey reflects the heart of the Real Recovery Podcast: real stories, real growth, and the courage to live one day at a time.Hashtags & Mentions#RealRecoveryPodcast #RecoveryJourney #AddictionRecovery #CourageToChange #ResilienceAndHope #TransformationThroughRecovery #HopeAndHealing @AnotherChanceRehab

RRP Episode 85 – Jonah Revisited: A Journey of Resilience, Courage, and RenewalPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 2 minutesSummary:In RRP Episode 85 – Jonah Revisited, Julie and Peter revisit one of the most powerful and heartfelt episodes from the early days of the Real Recovery Podcast: RRP Episode 16 – Jonah W’s Journey of Resilience, Courage, and the Transformative Power of Recovery. Originally released in June 2024, Jonah’s story captured the raw truth of addiction, surrender, and the daily work of rebuilding life in recovery.As we prepare to sit down with Jonah again in next week’s brand-new follow-up episode, this replay reminds us of the courage it takes to face life honestly, one day at a time.Key Points with Time Stamps:[00:00:54] Introduction to Jonah W and his background in early recovery.[00:05:12] Jonah shares his descent into addiction and the painful moments that led to surrender.[00:12:38] Discovering faith and community as a foundation for healing.[00:21:14] The importance of daily structure: meetings, prayer, and service work.[00:31:08] Jonah reflects on humility, gratitude, and staying present in recovery.[00:45:22] Lessons on acceptance, forgiveness, and learning to love life again.[00:58:40] Julie and Peter’s reflections on Jonah’s message and its enduring impact.Quote:“I get to love my little life today… and my life is worth living.” – Jonah WLinks:🎧 Listen to this episode: https://mdcr1.com/85📝 Read the blog post: https://mdcr1.com/85b🌐 Another Chance Treatment Center🌐 Real Recovery PodcastConclusion:Jonah’s story continues to stand as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and service in recovery. Revisiting this episode before next week’s follow-up gives listeners a chance to reflect on how far recovery can take us — when we keep showing up, stay grateful, and stay connected.Hashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #RecoveryJourney #AddictionRecovery #ResilienceAndHope #TransformationThroughRecovery #CourageToChange #HopeAndHealing @AnotherChance

RRP Episode 84 – A Legacy of Hope: Pete Kerns and Serenity LanePresenters: Julie and PeterGuest: Pete Kerns, President & CEO of Serenity LaneLength: 1 hour 25 minutesRelease Date: October 17, 2025Summary:In this heartfelt conversation, Julie and Peter welcome Pete Kerns, President and CEO of Serenity Lane — Oregon’s long-standing nonprofit treatment center founded by his father, Dr. Tom Kerns, in 1973.After more than 30 years in law enforcement, including nine as Eugene’s Police Chief, Pete shares how his father’s legacy and his own public-service background guide his mission to bring hope and healing through recovery. Together, they discuss Serenity Lane’s integrated, science-based, and compassionate approach to treatment — weaving mental-health support, meditation, trauma-informed yoga, and spirituality into care.Julie and Peter reflect on their own journeys, connecting deeply with Pete’s vision that recovery is a lifelong practice rooted in service, honesty, and community.Key Points (with Time Codes):[00:01:26] Julie and Peter introduce guest Pete Kerns, President and CEO of Serenity Lane, and reflect on their shared mission of hope and healing.[00:11:20] Pete shares his father Dr. Tom Kerns’s story — how the loss of his own father to alcoholism led to founding Serenity Lane in 1973 with counselor Sam Graves.[00:17:30] Discussion of Serenity Lane’s growth from a small fraternity house to a 15-acre campus in Coburg, Oregon, treating over 70,000 people since its start.[00:17:54] Pete explains the link between addiction and mental health and how Serenity Lane is integrating mental-health services across its clinics.[00:22:12] Pete discusses the science of how addiction rewires the brain and how spiritual practice and meditation help repair and strengthen the prefrontal cortex.[00:25:52] Conversation on why those in recovery often develop stronger character and integrity through daily practice and self-reflection.[00:33:32] Pete reflects on his law-enforcement career and how those experiences inform his empathy for those struggling with addiction.[00:48:13] Detailed look at Serenity Lane’s treatment path — from screening and detox to inpatient care with board-certified addiction specialists.[00:54:01] Explanation of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and how it supports healing while the brain recovers from addiction.[00:56:03] Overview of group therapy, trauma-informed yoga, fitness, and spiritual services available to clients.[01:04:34] Pete addresses relapse statistics — noting that 85% of relapses occur within the first year — and how structure and community help prevent it.[01:09:56] Discussion of sober living partnerships and why safe, supportive housing is key to maintaining sobriety.[01:12:01] Pete shares the importance of family education and healing as part of successful long-term recovery.[01:16:24] Closing thoughts — Pete encourages anyone struggling to reach out, emphasizing that “recovery is absolutely possible, and there is hope.”Quote:“Recovery is absolutely possible. There is hope—and from the moment you walk through our doors, you’re met with compassion, not judgment.” – Pete KernsLinks:Listen: https://mdcr1.com/84Blog: https://mdcr1.com/84bSerenity Lane: https://serenitylane.org/Phone: 800-543-9905Real Recovery Podcast: https://www.realrecoverypodcast.com/Hashtags & Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #RecoveryJourney #SerenityLane #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #HopeAndHealing #CommunitySupport #RecoveryIsPossible @SerenityLaneOR

Title: RRP Episode 83 – From Chaos to Clarity: Joe’s Path to RedemptionPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 3 minutesSummary:In this heartfelt episode, Joe shares his deeply personal journey from addiction and loss to recovery and renewal. His story reveals the painful realities of relapse, the emotional toll of broken relationships, and the healing power of self-honesty and faith. Through reflection, Joe explains how addiction cost him nearly everything — family, freedom, and self-worth — and how he slowly rebuilt his life through surrender, connection, and the support of the recovery community. His story reminds listeners that clarity often comes only after walking through chaos.Key Points with Time Stamps:[00:01:12] Julie and Peter introduce Joe and his journey into recovery.[00:03:45] Joe recalls his early life and first encounters with alcohol and drugs.[00:09:04] He opens up about the downward spiral of addiction and the loss it created in his relationships and career.[00:15:58] Joe shares the moment of hitting bottom that made him realize change was necessary.[00:22:16] Discusses relapse and how shame often kept him from asking for help.[00:29:47] Talks about learning to be honest with himself and others — the turning point toward real recovery.[00:35:10] Reflects on finding faith and how spiritual surrender became a foundation for healing.[00:44:25] Joe explains the importance of community and giving back as part of staying sober.[00:54:13] His advice to others struggling: recovery is not about perfection but persistence and honesty.Quote:“Every time I thought I’d lost everything, recovery showed me I still had a chance to find myself again.” — JoeLinks:Real Recovery PodcastListen to this episodeBlog post for this episodeConclusion:Joe’s story is a moving reminder that recovery isn’t a straight line — it’s a process of falling, learning, and rising stronger each time. His journey from chaos to clarity offers hope to anyone still searching for redemption, proving that transformation begins with truth and the willingness to start again.Hashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryJourney #HopeAndHealing #FaithInRecovery #ResilienceAndHope #SoberLiving #CommunitySupport @4DRecovery

Title: RRP Episode 82 – Oregon Recovers: Walk for RecoveryPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 38 minutes (approx., based on transcript timing)Summary:In this special live episode, Julie and Peter take you to the Oregon Recovers Walk at Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland. As sponsors and participants, they captured the energy of the day, visiting with recovery leaders, community members, and organizations who are making a difference. From heartfelt stories of resilience to calls for unity and action, this episode reflects the strength of the recovery community and the power of showing up together.Key Points with Time Stamps:[00:01:23] Julie and Peter reflect on attending as both participants and sponsors of the Walk for Recovery.[00:02:11] A touching moment when a young supporter proudly wore her Real Recovery Podcast shirt.[00:03:19] Recognition of Bo Brinson and the growth of Oregon Recovers’ impact.[00:05:03] Encounters with familiar faces including Serenity Lane and Doyle, with reflections on shared recovery journeys.[00:06:20] Shout-outs from MC Eric Allen, highlighting the event’s energy and support for the podcast.[00:07:15] Board member Colette joins the booth and interviews guests.[00:07:25] Connection with Dante Mathis from Harmony Schools.[00:08:07] Sarah from GTD shares the importance of volunteer support and upcoming opportunities.[00:09:18] Introduction to Austin Keever from Fora Health and his journey from incarceration to becoming a counselor.[00:10:11] Story of Isaac and Georgie, giving perspective on addiction’s impact on families.[00:11:23] Rudy from Volunteers of America speaks about the men’s inpatient program and pathways to stability.[00:13:26] Terry from The Peer Company (formerly MHAAO) shares the importance of lived experience and hope in recovery.Links to Websites Discussed:Oregon RecoversGTD – Go the DistanceFora HealthThe Peer CompanyReal Recovery PodcastQuote:“Recovery happens, hope happens, and we get to show people that there is hope.” – Terry, The Peer Company Hashtags & Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #OregonRecovers #WalkForRecovery #RecoveryCommunity #GTD #ForaHealth #ThePeerCompany #HopeAndHealing @OregonRecovers @4DRecovery @GTDGoTheDistance

Title: RRP Episode 81 – “Live” at GTD 5K Run & Walk for RecoveryPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 9 minutesSummary:In this episode, Julie and Peter take listeners directly to the GTD Go the Distance 5K Run & Walk for Recovery. You’ll hear live voices from the heart of the event—runners, walkers, volunteers, and leaders who gathered to celebrate recovery through community and fitness. From Izzy Alvarado, the founder of GTD, to participants sharing their personal connections to recovery, this episode captures the joy, encouragement, and resilience that defined the day.Key Points with Time Stamps:[00:01:42] Julie and Peter introduce the GTD 5K event and its mission of combining recovery with physical fitness.[00:04:15] Interview with Izzy Alvarado, GTD founder, sharing his vision for the event and the importance of creating safe, inclusive recovery spaces.[00:13:28] Voices from participants about what motivated them to show up, from honoring loved ones in recovery to finding strength in community.[00:26:09] Stories of how running and walking provide new tools for coping, healing, and sustaining sobriety.[00:41:44] Volunteers reflect on the spirit of the day and the impact of seeing families, friends, and entire communities walking together.[00:55:31] Closing reflections from Izzy and others on the meaning of going the distance—not just at the 5K, but in the ongoing recovery journey.[01:06:55] Julie and Peter wrap up with gratitude for those who shared and encouragement to keep showing up for recovery, fitness, and connection.Links to Websites Discussed:GTD Go the DistanceReal Recovery PodcastQuote:“Recovery isn’t about running the fastest—it’s about showing up, moving forward, and finishing together.” —Izzy AlvaradoHashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #GoTheDistance #RecoveryJourney #5KforRecovery #CommunityHealing #FitnessAndRecovery @GTDGoTheDistance

Title: RRP Episode 80 – Lance Orton: A Journey of Faith, Recovery, and Service at City TeamPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 8 minutesSummary:In this episode, Lance Orton shares his powerful story of resilience, from addiction and time on the streets to finding redemption through faith and recovery. Today, as a leader with City Team, Lance dedicates his life to serving others who are struggling. He reflects on the mentors who supported him, the turning points that led to his healing, and how City Team provides vital hope and resources to those in need. His testimony highlights the power of transformation and the importance of giving back.Key Points with Time Stamps:[00:01:15] Introduction to Lance Orton and his background.[00:04:02] Early struggles with addiction and homelessness.[00:10:20] Lance’s turning point and the role of faith in his recovery.[00:18:45] Finding guidance and support from mentors during his journey.[00:27:33] The impact of City Team’s programs in providing shelter, meals, and recovery support.[00:38:11] Lance’s transition into service and leadership with City Team.[00:50:09] Reflections on resilience, responsibility, and living a life of service.[01:02:56] Lance’s message of hope for others still struggling.Links to Websites Discussed:City TeamReal Recovery PodcastQuote:“Faith gave me the strength to change, but serving others gave me the purpose to keep going.” – Lance OrtonHashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #CityTeam #FaithAndRecovery #RecoveryJourney #HopeAndHealing #CommunitySupport #SobrietyStories @CityTeam

Title: RRP Episode 79 – Amber & Bo Part Two: Building a Foundation Through Struggle and HopePresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 55 minutesListening Link: https://mdcr1.com/79Blog Link: https://mdcr1.com/79bSummary:In part two of her story, Amber returns with her husband Bo to share how their love and survival through chaos became a foundation for recovery. From meeting in the depths of addiction to navigating separation while Bo was incarcerated, they speak openly about building trust, faith, and resilience. Their story reflects the power of authenticity, the importance of structure, and the courage to break generational cycles for their family and community.Key Points with Time Stamps:[00:05:35] Amber recalls meeting Bo during her last relapse and the immediate sense of safety they felt together.[00:09:57] They describe life on the streets as a team, living fast and caught up in crime and addiction.[00:13:06] Bo shares about his prison sentence and how time apart laid the groundwork for a stronger relationship.[00:19:18] Amber opens up about her breaking point in jail, dropping to her knees and asking God to guide her path.[00:21:15] They reflect on building their bond through letters and communication while separated, creating a true foundation.[00:26:02] The couple highlights the role of Oxford House and structure in sustaining long-term recovery.[00:30:42] Amber and Bo talk about accountability, growth, and modeling a different life for their children.[00:44:14] Bo discusses his role as Executive Director of Oregon Recovers and the importance of community advocacy.Quote:“We had to grow individually before we could build something real together.” — AmberLinks to Websites Discussed:Oregon RecoversReal Recovery PodcastConclusion:Amber and Bo’s story reminds us that even relationships formed in chaos can transform into sources of strength and healing. Through resilience, structure, and faith, they’ve built a new legacy for their family and are helping to shape the future of recovery in Oregon.Hashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #RecoveryJourney #AddictionRecovery #FamilyHealing #Resilience #OregonRecovers @4DRecovery

Title: RRP Episode 78 – Amber’s Journey Part One: The Roots of Chaos and the Fight for HopePresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 12 minutesListening Link: https://mdcr1.com/78Blog Link: https://mdcr1.com/78bSummary:In part one of her powerful two-part episode, Amber Brison brings listeners into the heart of her story. From a childhood marked by chaos and abuse to the choices that pulled her deeper into addiction, Amber speaks with unflinching honesty about the realities of trauma and survival. This first chapter of her journey reveals the roots of her struggles, while hinting at the hope and resilience that would later carry her forward in recovery.Key Points with Time Stamps:[00:01:42] Amber shares about her chaotic childhood, marked by instability, abuse, and the struggle to find safety.[00:09:28] The lasting impact of trauma and how it shaped her early identity.[00:18:54] Turning to substances as a way to cope with pain and silence the past.[00:31:17] Amber reflects on destructive relationships that mirrored cycles of abuse.[00:44:03] The breaking point moments where she began to lose herself completely.[01:01:10] Glimmers of honesty and accountability — recognizing she needed help.Quote:“Recovery begins when we tell the truth — even when it hurts.” — AmberLinks to Websites Discussed:Real Recovery PodcastConclusion:Amber’s story is a reminder that healing often starts in the darkest places. Her openness in part one sets the stage for next week’s continuation, where we’ll hear how she found strength and a path toward recovery.Hashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #RecoveryJourney #AddictionRecovery #HopeAndHealing #TraumaRecovery #Resilience #SobrietyStories @4DRecovery

RRP Episode 77 – Emily F.: Breaking Cycles, Building HopePresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1:07:43Summary:In this powerful episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, Emily F. opens up about growing up in a family marked by addiction and the impact it had on her life. She courageously shares her own struggles with substances, the turning point that led her into recovery, and the role of community and peer support in her healing. Emily’s story is one of breaking generational cycles, finding hope, and building a future grounded in resilience and purpose.Key Points[00:03:15] Emily reflects on childhood experiences and the impact of addiction in her family.[00:12:40] Early substance use and the realization of unhealthy patterns.[00:24:05] The moment of clarity that pushed her toward recovery.[00:38:50] Discovering strength through community and peer support.[00:52:30] Breaking generational cycles and embracing a new future.[01:02:15] Emily’s message of hope to others still struggling.LinksListening Link: https://mdcr1.com/77Blog Link: https://mdcr1.com/77bReal Recovery PodcastQuote“Recovery means I don’t have to repeat the past — I get to create a new future.” – Emily F.Hashtags & Mentions#RecoveryJourney #BreakingCycles #RealRecoveryPodcast @4DRecovery @AnotherChanceRehab

Title: RRP Episode 76 – Chris G.: From the Streets to Sobriety – A Journey of ResiliencePresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1:06:47Quote:“One of the most beautiful things that I've experienced in recovery… is being able to use obstacles and turn them into opportunities. I often say that one of the huge benefits of recovery is learning how to alchemize obstacles into opportunities.” – Chris G.Summary:In this powerful episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, Chris G. shares his candid journey from a life shaped by addiction and homelessness to the hope and stability he’s found in long-term recovery. Chris speaks about the destructive cycles that once controlled his life, the mentors and recovery community that gave him the tools to change, and the daily practices that help him stay on track. His story is raw, inspiring, and a testament to the resilience it takes to rebuild from the ground up. We also highlight resources like True Colors Recovery that support individuals in their healing journey.Key Points:[00:03:12] Chris’s early struggles with drugs and alcohol, starting in his teens and escalating into a cycle of chaos.[00:14:22] The moment he realized he needed to change.[00:21:45] Surviving periods of homelessness and the instability that came with life on the streets.[00:32:58] Finding strength through mentors and the recovery community that showed him a new way to live.[00:44:17] Daily recovery tools—honesty, accountability, and working a program—that keep him grounded.[00:57:33] His commitment to giving back and helping others on their recovery journeys, including connections with True Colors Recovery.Links:Listen to Episode 76Read the Blog PostReal Recovery Podcast4D RecoveryTrue Colors RecoveryHashtags & Mentions:#RecoveryJourney #Sobriety #AddictionRecovery #FromStreetsToSobriety #RealRecoveryPodcast @4DRecovery @TrueColorsRecovery

Title: RRP 74 Andrea L.: Keep Coming Back – Recovery, Relapse, and the Power of CommunityPresenters: Julie L and Peter BGuest: Andrea LLength: ~1:14:30Date: August 8, 2025Summary:Julie and Peter welcome Andrea L., a social worker and longtime member of Extended Family AA. Andrea shares her honest recovery journey through functional alcoholism, denial, relapse, and reconnection. Her story underscores the power of persistence, peer support, and the simple message: Keep Coming Back.Key Points & Timestamps:Introduction & Background• [00:00:19] Opening message on healing and transformation• [00:01:00] 24/7 Recovery Crisis Line: 503-223-8569• [00:01:57] Andrea introduced as close friend and AA member• [00:02:25] Wednesday night meeting service role• [00:03:30] Guiding principles: Never Give Up and Keep Coming BackFamily & Addiction History• [00:07:59] Family roots of addiction and silence• [00:09:27] Mother’s death triggered increased drinking• [00:10:35] Married Chris (still together today)• [00:12:38] Became guardian to father after brain surgeryAddiction Progression• [00:14:41] Realizing “we” drink too much• [00:15:05] Worked in addiction services, missed her own signals• [00:16:42] Daily norm: 3 vodka sodas and 4 beers• [00:18:21] Hit bottom: passed out on sidewalkTreatment & Recovery• [00:19:41] Early AA attendance to get people off her back• [00:22:21] Treatment entry: Feb 2022, post-COVID surge• [00:23:35] Pandemic impact on drinking habits• [00:24:03] Detoxed at home via Kaiser Addiction Medicine• [00:24:28] Vital warning: unsupervised detox is dangerousWorkplace & Legal Protections• [00:26:54] Disclosure to HR: not best practice• [00:27:33] Legal rights: FMLA, ADA• [00:29:00] Best route: EAP first, minimal disclosure• [00:29:42] Oregon paid leave for treatmentCommunity & Relapse• [00:30:38] Early meetings were quiet, but safe• [00:32:45] Learning to be a “grateful alcoholic”• [00:33:16] Relapse episodes got shorter over time• [00:33:51] "We don’t shoot our wounded" – Barry• [00:38:55] Didn’t work the steps, but stayed connectedService & Support• [00:39:54] Service commitments maintain accountability• [00:42:51] Acts of service: coffee pot up stairs• [00:44:43] Supported Julie and Peter at Out in Recovery• [00:44:52] Skyler Ray – former client turned hip-hop artist• [00:46:04] Touring with Road to Recovery• [00:46:23] Mentions Another ChanceNavigating Relationships• [00:47:00] Kept work and recovery separate• [00:50:34] Brother-in-law Matthew also in recovery• [00:51:27] Friends subtly monitor drink choices• [00:56:30] Italy trip: 11 travelers, 2 soberPersonal & Professional Growth• [00:58:37] Julie openly shares podcast at work• [01:00:59] Employer now sponsors GTD 5K• [01:02:20] Peter uses recovery tools for cancer journey• [01:03:37] Recovery brings deeper relationshipsKey Recovery Insights• [01:07:01] “I have had many ups and downs... and many successes.” – Andrea• [01:08:22] Worry when people vanish from meetings• [01:09:20] Boundaries: loving people without social ties• [01:10:49] “Welcome back” is the magic of communityFeatured Resources & OrganizationsRecovery Support:• Real Recovery Podcast• 503-223-8569 – 24/7 Oregon Crisis Line• Extended Family AA• Portland Alano ClubTreatment Services:• 4D Recovery• Another Chance Clinical Services• Go The Distance (GTD)• Kaiser Addiction MedicineInspiration:• Skyler Ray – Road to Recovery Tour• Jim Valvano Foundation – “Never Give Up”Quotes to Remember:"I have been working on getting sober for three years. I have had many ups and downs... And I have had many successes." – Andrea L"We don't shoot our wounded." – Barry"If you reach recovery, who cares how you got there? It's the connection piece." – Peter B"I'm grateful I went to prison 'cause it gave me the timeout to get sober." – Julie LListen & Learn:🎧 Episode 74 Audio📝 Read the Blog🔗 Real Recovery Podcast