Recovery Matters! Podcast

At 21 years old, Lucas has never had a legal drink—yet he’s already survived alcohol addiction, Kratom dependence, and the brutal withdrawals that followed. His story begins in a chaotic household where nightly drinking and fighting were the norm. By 19, Lucas was mixing alcohol with pills, throwing up blood, and blacking out behind the wheel. That night at home became his rock bottom—and the start of change.But when he stopped drinking, Kratom slid in to fill the void. Sold right next to the energy drinks at gas stations, it seemed harmless—“all natural.” In reality, it’s a partial opioid agonist that hooks into the brain’s mu receptors. Lucas thought it was helping him stay functional—until he couldn’t go a day without it. Lucas shares what recovery looks like when you do it on your own, the painful truth about “functional” addiction, and how community ultimately helped him heal. If you or someone you love is experimenting with Kratom, this episode is a wake-up call. 00:00–Meet Lucas (21 )& early sobriety dates00:00:53–Rock-bottom night at mom’s house00:02:40–Vomiting blood, drunk driving, half-handle a day00:04:06–From quitting alcohol to “dabbling” in kratom00:05:00–What kratom is; 7-OH & partial opioid agonist00:08:20–Gas-station access, concentrates, no ID check00:11:16–The “functional” phase (school/work on kratom)00:12:44–Extracts arms race:“Feel Free,” kava mix, escalation00:16:03–Physical dependence & morning withdrawals00:21:13–Choosing to quit & what helped (and what didn’t)00:24:58–Early-recovery anxiety & doing it alone vs.support00:29:15–Finding community (AA/RCO) as a young person00:31:42–Day-one advice:“It gets better one day at a time”  ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

For years, musician Matthew Check drank to hide pain, pressure, and perfectionism—until one brutal morning on an old wooden floor made him face the truth. In this Recovery Matters episode, Matthew opens up about the spiral of blackout drinking, the shame that followed, and the quiet relief of his first AA meeting. He shares how he rebuilt his life through connection, spirituality, and creative expression—and why August 14, 2014 marks the day he truly began living in recovery. His story proves that recovery isn’t the end of fun—it’s the start of freedom.Purchase Matthew's new book here: https://a.co/d/ePFvVgD 00:00 Intro – Matthew Check’s Early Years  02:15 College Drinking & Blackouts  05:40 The Morning That Changed Everything  08:10 Finding Sobriety on August 14, 2014  11:05 Early AA Meetings & Emotional Healing  15:20 Music, Spirituality & Recovery  19:45 Final Reflections & Hope for Others ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

TJ sits down with Meghan Blanchette, a woman whose journey through addiction, relapse, and self-discovery offers a powerful look at what long-term recovery truly means.Meghan shares how her first sobriety date in 2015 marked the beginning of a new chapter—but a prescribed medication after surgery tested her honesty and recovery principles. She chose to reset her sobriety date, a humbling act that redefined her integrity and commitment to healing. Her story opens an important conversation about prescribed medication, relapse, and the moral choices that often accompany recovery.Growing up as an only child who moved frequently, Meghan reflects on how instability and self-blame laid early groundwork for addiction. Introduced to alcohol in middle school and later to opiates through a prescription, her dependency quickly escalated. By her twenties, Meghan was battling homelessness, withdrawal, and despair—until a moment of clarity walking along a busy road pushed her to seek help.Calling her mother and entering detox through Connecticut’s 2-1-1 system became the turning point. Meghan went from living in a tent to completing multiple recovery programs—detox, 90-day treatment, halfway housing, and eventually independent living—each step teaching her life skills, self-respect, and community connection.Today, Meghan thrives as a speaker, coach, and the chairwoman of the board at InterCommunity, the very organization that once helped her rebuild her life. Through her platform FiercelyMeghan.com, she empowers others with lessons in emotional intelligence, self-worth, and recovery principles that apply far beyond addiction. ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Host TJ sits down with author Ian Fee, who shares his raw and unfiltered journey through addiction, family struggles, and the path to lasting recovery. From taking his first sip of alcohol at just one year old, to believing booze was his “superpower,” Ian’s story is filled with both chaos and redemption.He opens up about how alcohol shaped his childhood, his career, and his relationships—including two failed marriages and painful letters from his children describing life with a “party dad.” Ian also recounts his turning point in rehab, where he realized that true change had to start with himself.Now eight years sober, Ian talks about rebuilding his life through gratitude, community, and daily habits. He shares practical advice for those in early recovery, the importance of your “circle,” and how he transformed his pain into purpose by writing his book Wild Ride to Sobriety. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking hope, resilience, and proof that it’s never too late to change.Ian's book Wild Ride To Sobriety: A Transformation from Drunken Oblivion to Profound Clarity can be purchased on Amazon: https://a.co/d/due58IO 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction00:34 – Growing up in an alcohol-centered home02:00 – Childhood party life & first jobs serving drinks03:40 – College years: booze as a “superpower”05:00 – Alcohol and career success in the hotel industry05:43 – Marriage, kids, and the cost of addiction07:14 – Stacking “rock bottoms” and going to rehab08:30 – Turning point: realizing change starts with self09:19 – Emotional impact: letters from his children11:06 – Life after rehab & the power of community13:39 – Learning to feel emotions & forgive himself15:29 – Writing Wild Ride to Sobriety17:11 – Building transformation through daily habits18:26 – The practice of gratitude19:16 – Advice for the first 24 hours of recovery20:44 – The importance of your circle & relationships21:09 – Book launch & where to find it22:26 – Setting small, achievable goals in recovery23:18 – Closing thoughts & inspiration ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

In this episode of Recovery Matters, TJ sits down with Matt, a young person in recovery who now works as a Young People and Family Services Coordinator with CCAR. Matt opens up about his journey, beginning with his first treatment at just 13 years old. Despite having parents in recovery, he struggled deeply with drugs, arrests, and time in the juvenile justice system. He shares the progression of his addiction—weed and pills leading to heroin, crack, and near-fatal lows including homelessness, suicidal thoughts, and severe health complications. A turning point came when he entered detox and long-term treatment programs, where structure and community support helped him rebuild his life. Matt also talks about relapse, rebuilding quickly, and how building a strong network of sober friends became crucial to his recovery. His story highlights both the tragedy of losing friends to overdose and the joy of discovering a fulfilling sober life—travel, motorcycles, relationships, and most importantly, fatherhood. Becoming a dad gave Matt a new sense of purpose, grounding his recovery in love and responsibility.  00:00 – Introductions00:36 – First Treatment at 1305:00 – Escalating Addiction07:00 – First Arrests & Juvenile Justice08:00 – Hitting Rock Bottom at 1810:00 – Sober House & Overdose Scare13:00 – Relapse After Heartbreak15:00 – Waterbury & Heavy Addiction17:30 – Final Turning Point19:00 – Structured Recovery & Torrington Move22:00 – Slip & Quick Return to Recovery23:00 – Building a New Life25:00 – Meeting His Fiancée & Becoming a Father29:00 – Parenthood in Recovery34:00 – Advice for Newcomers ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Victor Reynolds shares his powerful recovery journey on the Recovery Matters Podcast. Raised in an environment of violence and addiction, he was taught to be heartless from a young age. By nine, he was on the streets, caught up in crime, substances, and chaos. Years of dust, drinking, robberies, and prison time left him broken, but also searching for meaning.His turning point came when he faced federal charges and later battled congestive heart failure while incarcerated. After multiple near-death experiences and what he describes as a divine encounter with an “angel,” Victor embraced faith and recovery. Today, he lives with humility, gratitude, and a mission to help others who are still struggling. His story is one of transformation, hope, and the belief in second chances.00:00 – Introduction: TJ & Victor00:21 – Growing up without emotions00:44 – Father’s influence & gangster lifestyle01:18 – Early street life & family struggles02:17 – First substances: dust & drinking02:43 – Crime, stickups, and first arrest03:30 – Denial of addiction problems04:00 – Prison life & getting high inside05:00 – Feeling invincible on substances06:05 – Father’s Day with his sons – breaking moment07:21 – Facing federal charges & prison time08:10 – Congestive heart failure diagnosis09:49 – Near-death experiences & survival13:11 – Belief in God’s protection & a new heart15:02 – The mysterious Dr. Kennedy encounter18:25 – Faith, recovery, and humility19:00 – Advice for people in their first 24 hours of recovery ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

In this episode of Recovery Matters, Brian shares his powerful journey from sports and college life to struggling with alcohol, cocaine, and compulsive gambling. He opens up about the chaos of addiction, the turning points that led him into treatment, and how community and recovery gave him a new life. Today, Brian works to support others in recovery, offering hope and connection for anyone struggling with addiction or gambling.00:00 – Introductions & basketball as an outlet01:22 – Childhood, family, and sports identity02:52 – First drink at 14 and finding belonging05:40 – College years, gambling, and substance use09:57 – “Getting away with it” and white privilege11:00 – Gambling wins, cocaine habit, and detox15:00 – Early treatment attempts and relapse18:26 – Darkest days in Brooklyn19:57 – Last bet and last drink22:45 – Surrender and finding real recovery25:20 – Building community through sober housing30:58 – Moving to Connecticut and collegiate recovery work33:44 – Life in recovery today35:02 – Advice for someone in their first 24 hours ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Dr. Chad McDonald is the Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity (a not-for-profit, addiction and behavioral health leaning FQHC-LA in the Greater Hartford, CT area), where he has the privilege of helping people find hope and healing through recovery. Initially a family physician by training, Dr. McDonald became board-certified in Addiction Medicine after witnessing the impact of substance use disorders on people close to him. Today, he works alongside a dedicated team providing compassionate, whole-person care for individuals and families across Greater Hartford.In addition to his clinical and leadership work, Dr. McDonald serves as Connecticut’s Physician Addiction State Champion with the Opioid Response Network and is an appointed member of the Health Information Technology Advisory Committee (HITAC), where he advocates for using health IT to reduce barriers to care and strengthen recovery supports.Dr. McDonald believes that recovery is possible for everyone and that access to care should never be out of reach. For anyone ready to begin their recovery journey—or for loved ones seeking help—InterCommunity offers medical detox, residential rehab, and outpatient programs. Learn more at https://www.intercommunityct.org/ ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

TJ sits down with Elizabeth, a former Golden Gloves boxing champion, to talk about her journey through gambling addiction and long-term recovery. Elizabeth shares how her upbringing, athletic drive, and devastating losses fueled her compulsive gambling, and how she eventually found hope, healing, and connection through recovery.From the thrill of Las Vegas to the crushing impact of debt and shame, Elizabeth’s story shines a light on the risks athletes face, the hidden dangers of gambling, and the importance of connection in recovery. Overseeing Gambling Prevention, Intervention and Treatment at Nicasa Behavioral Health Services: https://nicasa.org/program/adult-gambling-treatment/Educating collegiate athletes about gambling harm at EPIC Global Solutions: https://www.epicglobalsolutions.com/about-us/💜 September is National Recovery Month—and this year, we’re making sure recovery from gambling disorder is part of the conversation. Share a few words about what recovery means to you, and your message could inspire someone who feels alone.  https://forms.gle/NxngSPjZRrL9TtUa9 00:00 Introduction and Host's Recovery Journey00:15 Guest's Background and Early Gambling Experiences00:32 Family Influence and Gambling Culture02:06 Athlete Mentality and Gambling Addiction05:53 Boxing Career and Injury07:57 Loss and Escalation of Gambling09:17 Realization and Attempt to Control Gambling14:42 Quitting Gambling and Early Non-Recovery15:48 Facing the Past: Compartmentalization and Shame16:15 Specializing in Gambling Disorder Counseling17:12 The Turning Point: Seeking Recovery17:37 First Steps in Recovery: Meetings and Support20:07 Understanding and Forgiving Yourself21:03 The Importance of Connection in Recovery23:26 Financial Consequences and Genuine Accountability25:18 Recognizing Lingering Risk Behaviors28:43 Gambling Education and Risk Factors33:43 Advice for Early Recovery ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Sean Hemeon shares his powerful journey from a chaotic childhood in a strict Mormon household, through struggles with identity, addiction, and dangerous high-stakes drug dealing, to long-term recovery and reconciliation with his family. He opens up about feeling “not enough” from an early age, the role alcohol and drugs played in numbing that pain, and how his life spiraled into violence, federal charges, and life-threatening situations. After narrowly escaping prison, Sean entered recovery in 2004 and has since built a life grounded in service, creativity, and healing. He reflects on the emotional turning points that shaped his sobriety, including confronting deep wounds with his mother, finding community in recovery, and pursuing his passion for acting and art. Today, he uses his story, and soon to be released as a memoir, as a testament to the transformative power of connection, forgiveness, and purpose.More on Sean Hemeon: https://www.seanhemeon.com00:00 – Introductions & sobriety dates00:35 – Childhood in a Mormon household, family chaos, and parental conflict02:11 – Early emotional neglect and feelings of not being enough03:42 – Teenage identity crisis and discovering same-sex attraction04:58 – First experiences with alcohol and instant connection to its effects07:31 – High school years: masking identity, increasing substance use, hidden relationship10:13 – Violence and abandonment; deepening shame and isolation11:26 – Core belief of “I’m not enough” and the cycle of addiction13:05 – College years, heartbreak, suicide attempt, and coming out to his mother15:00 – Immersion in DC’s gay club scene and early drug experiences16:18 – Meeting a meth dealer boyfriend; thrill of underground life18:57 – Becoming a dealer, escalating risks, and major consequences20:56 – Federal arrest, decision not to inform, and mysterious case dismissal22:34 – Six more weeks using before calling parents for help23:20 – Entering treatment, relapse on inhalants, and final decision to get sober25:00 – Extent of substance use before recovery26:28 – Biggest regret: a friend’s overdose and missed chance to help27:00 – Recovery process: embracing 12-step programs and community29:28 – Moving to LA, finding strong recovery support, and focusing on rebuilding30:55 – Powerful meeting story about service and greater purpose in recovery31:43 – Evolving beyond 12-step rigidity and exploring spirituality32:43 – Breaking ties with his mother to protect his recovery34:35 – Slow reconnection and pivotal forgiveness moment during the pandemic36:24 – Emotional apology from his mother and her walking him down the aisle38:52 – Reflection on miracles, higher purpose, and the role of addiction in finding connection39:01 – The memoir The Good Little Drug Lord—origin, writing process, and future release41:53 – Staying connected via Instagram and newsletter42:05 – Advice for someone in their first 24 hours of recovery42:50 – Closing thanks and CCAR’s Telephone Recovery Support information ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

At just 22 years old and five months into recovery, Thomas opens up about his long road through addiction, street life, and nearly 25 treatment centers. From dark moments in New Haven to dancing sober at his god-sister’s wedding, Thomas shares how he finally found peace, purpose, and a way to live. ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Derek Benson of Investing in Sobriety shares his journey from a highly structured childhood and elite athletics through pills, escalating addiction, crime, prison, and finally a sustainable recovery built on a mental-physical-spiritual blueprint and strong community. Highlights:* Early structure: military/boarding school; learned independence and discipline.* First intoxication and growing access in high school; transfers to Avon Old Farms and The Hun School.* Purdue years: injuries, pills in the locker room, and the slide from use → misuse → addiction.* “Blind alley” spiral: funding use, losing work and relationships.* Turning point: 12/12/2014—turned himself in; first exposure to AA in jail; later transferred to McDougall-Walker (high bond, no outside meetings).* Letter that changed things: a family friend visits, connects him to 12-step support.* Court offered Connecticut Valley Hospital (CVH) 42-day treatment; he took it, then faced a judge’s 10-year cap warning—fueling commitment to change.* Recovery today: daily mental-physical-spiritual balance and a healthy circle of influence.* Practical advice for the first 24 hours: reach out for help and stay open-minded.* Derek’s project: Investing in Sobriety—conversations on personalized recovery blueprints.More on Investing In Sobriety here: https://www.investinginsobriety.com/ Chapters00:00 – Intro, gratitude for recovery community; Derek at ~10 years sober.
03:20 – Childhood & military/boarding school; structure and early independence.
06:25 – First drunk; access increases; transfer to Avon Old Farms.
08:00 – Senior year path to The Hun School; athletic exposure.10:32 – Purdue: pills after injuries; shift toward addiction.
12:53 – Use vs. misuse vs. addiction; trouble at college party.
28:21 – “Blind alley” metaphor; life narrows around using.
30:06 – Losing work, unhealthy circles, doing anything for money.
31:41 – Criminal activity escalates; path to prison.
33:38 – 12/12/2014: turns himself in (beginning of recovery).
41:04 – First AA in Hartford Correctional.
42:17 – Transfer to McDougall-Walker; no outside meetings; pivotal letter to family friend.
45:47 – 65 pending charges; attorney lays out CVH option.
47:01 – CVH 42-day program; willingness and early momentum.
49:27 – Judge’s 10-year cap warning; why he doubled down on change.
52:48 – Derek’s recovery blueprint (mental-physical-spiritual).
55:55 – Building a healthy circle of influence.
57:37 – Advice for day one: reach out & be open-minded.
58:39 – Derek’s podcast: Investing in Sobriety.  ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Stephen Matos, a person in long-term recovery, joins TJ on the Recovery Matters podcast to share his incredible journey since his last use of drugs and alcohol in 1986 and his last gambling experience in 1987. Stephen opens up about his upbringing in Hartford, Connecticut, where his father was deeply entrenched in gambling activities. He recounts how his own descent into alcohol, drugs, and gambling almost destroyed his life, leading to broken relationships and financial ruin. However, recovery came through Gamblers Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, and intensive outpatient programs. Stephen highlights his role as a peer counselor in Connecticut's exemplary problem gambling treatment programs, underscoring the importance of lived experience in offering hope and support to others. His narrative also sheds light on the stigma surrounding gambling addiction and the critical need for comprehensive treatment and recovery resources.00:00 Introduction and Host Backgrounds00:36 Growing Up with a Gambling Father04:51 Early Exposure to Alcohol and Drugs06:59 The Impact of Gambling on Relationships09:58 Descent into Addiction16:15 Turning Point and Seeking Help18:30 Recovery Journey and Support Systems21:51 The Journey of Recovery21:58 Managing Money and Responsibilities22:24 The Role of AA and GA in Recovery22:48 Strained Relationship with Father23:24 Making Amends and Financial Accountability23:52 Mending the Relationship with Father24:27 A New Chapter: Becoming a Peer Counselor25:06 Training and Embracing Multiple Pathways of Recovery25:58 Working with Problem Gamblers and Their Families27:58 Connecticut's Leading Gambling Treatment Programs29:37 The Importance of Lived Experience in Recovery33:03 Helpline and Support Resources35:20 Advice for Newcomers in Recovery36:48 Addressing Stigma and Shame in Gambling Addiction41:05 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude  ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Gabe shares his story of growing up in a middle-class suburb in Long Island, struggling with drug and alcohol addiction from a young age, and the ensuing legal issues and incarcerations. He discusses his turning point in 2018 after a serious overdose and his subsequent commitment to recovery, community service, and faith. Gabe talks about his work as a volunteer, recovery coach, and founder of a nonprofit recovery community organization. He highlights his efforts in helping others through various programs, including sober living homes, recovery coaching training in prisons, and his newly published book on leveraging lived experience for community service. Gabe emphasizes the importance of self-worth, support, and finding one's own path in recovery.00:00 Introduction and Host Introductions00:25 Early Life and Introduction to Substance Use01:18 Struggles with Addiction and First Rehab Experience04:43 Turning Point and Commitment to Recovery07:48 Building a Life of Service and Recovery11:57 Challenges and Successes in Establishing Recovery Community21:21 Expanding Recovery Efforts and Final Thoughts  ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Angel, who is celebrating six months of sobriety from Fentanyl, opens up about his path to recovery, the struggles he faced, and the life-changing moments that led him to sobriety. He shares insights into the challenges of overcoming addiction, the pivotal moments that influenced his decision to seek help, and the transformation his life has undergone since becoming sober. The conversation highlights the importance of support systems, the various pathways to recovery, and the fulfillment that comes from being present and active in one's own life. 00:00 Introduction and Host Backgrounds00:27 Angel's Early Recovery Journey00:48 Exploring the Sober Community02:15 Life in Recovery05:18 Angel's Addiction History07:24 Struggles with Fentanyl11:28 Attempts to Get Clean12:24 Manipulating the System14:02 Probation and Deception15:45 Hitting Rock Bottom18:01 The Turning Point19:58 Entering Detox22:22 Path to Recovery24:20 Life After Addiction26:18 Advice for Newcomers ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Serena Saunders, founder of Pawsitive Recovery, shares her heartfelt journey from a challenging childhood marked by her mother's schizophrenia and substance use, leading to her own struggles with drugs and alcohol starting at age 12. After years of ups and downs, Serena found recovery four years ago and turned her life around by creating Pawsitive Recovery. This unique program helps people in addiction and mental health treatment by providing foster care for their pets. Serena also talks about the importance of animal companionship in recovery and the services Pawsitive Recovery offers, including workshops and partnerships with local shelters. Learn how her dog Oscar inspired this life-saving initiative.00:00 Introduction to Serena Saunders and Pawsitive Recovery00:16 Serena's Childhood and Family Struggles04:33 Early Substance Use and Teenage Years05:58 Realizing the Need for Help07:01 Journey to Sobriety and Recovery11:22 Founding Pawsitive Recovery14:25 Expanding Positive Recovery Nationwide15:23 The Impact of Animals in Recovery21:48 How to Get Involved and Final Thoughts ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Ben Kaye shares his powerful story of recovery after years caught in the world of chemsex—a term used to describe using drugs like crystal meth, GBL, and mephedrone to enhance sex, lower inhibitions, and feel more connected during sexual encounters, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. What started as weekend partying turned into daily drug use and emotional isolation. Ben opens up about how trauma, loneliness, and the search for love led him to addiction, including injecting meth to feel a sense of control and connection. In this honest and eye-opening conversation, Ben explains how chemsex became his way of coping, and how treatment, community, and time helped him rebuild his life. Now a therapist, he helps others find healing too. 00:00 – Intro: Meet Ben Kaye01:05 – An idyllic childhood shattered at 1502:21 – First experiences with substances04:00 – Moving to London, coming out, and the party scene05:30 – Why the party lifestyle became so appealing07:00 – Functioning addict or barely functioning?08:22 – When weekend use turned into daily meth use09:27 – Injecting crystal meth: how it started10:45 – What is Chemsex? Breaking it down12:00 – The rise of Chemsex culture and hookup apps13:10 – Why young people are at risk14:24 – Looking for love, not just drugs15:30 – What intimacy looks like without drugs16:50 – How Ben got help and started recovery18:28 – The mental health impact of heavy drug use20:00 – Starting over through treatment and support21:50 – Learning to enjoy life sober23:00 – Becoming a therapist and helping others25:00 – Advice for anyone starting recovery 🔔 Subscribe for more real stories of healing and hope.📲 Connect with Ben: https://benkayetherapy.com | @justbenkaye🎙️ Ben’s Podcast: Really Queer on Spotify & Apple Podcasts ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

In this episode of the Recovery Matters podcast, Michelle Ketchum celebrates her first year of sobriety. Michelle discusses her journey from a toxic relationship and substance use to finding the strength to seek help and enter rehab. She shares her experiences of personal growth, the importance of community, and her involvement in sober living and activities through organizations like The Phoenix and Smart Recovery. Michelle also talks about fulfilling her lifelong dream of becoming a published author. Her story is an inspiring example of overcoming adversity and finding hope and support in recovery. 00:00 Introduction and Host Introductions00:38 Early Life and Family Support01:30 High School and First Encounters with Drugs06:28 College Life and Denial of Addiction13:54 Toxic Relationships and Hitting Rock Bottom22:28 Facing Rehab Fears22:57 The Rehab Experience24:18 Building New Friendships27:31 Life After Rehab28:31 Managing a Sober House30:13 Discovering New Passions38:05 Becoming an Author43:36 The Phoenix and Smart Recovery46:24 Advice for Newcomers ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

In this candid episode of the Recovery Matters Podcast, we sit down with Carter Graves, founder of KMFK Safety Services and Executive Director of Grassroots Harm Reduction. Carter shares their journey of growing up in a household shaped by meth use, navigating personal trauma, and redefining recovery through harm reduction and managed methamphetamine use. With courage, humor, and radical transparency, Carter challenges traditional recovery narratives and offers powerful insights into drug policy, peer-led safety, and what it truly means to heal.Whether you're in recovery, support harm reduction, or are curious about alternatives to abstinence-based models—this conversation will challenge and inspire you. 00:00 - Carter introduces themselves and their definition of recovery00:27 - Growing up with a single mother and generational meth use01:48 - The trauma, poverty, and strength of Carter's family story03:00 - Early substance use: Adderall, ecstasy, and meth04:30 - Mother’s death and escalation of use05:56 - The 2020 uprisings and how a street medic changed everything06:58 - Quitting meth for three years and entering abstinence-based recovery08:59 - The physical and emotional toll of abstinence10:00 - Long COVID and reevaluating recovery11:00 - Creative life, relapse language, and return to use12:00 - What is reagent drug checking?13:20 - Origin story: DanceSafe, MDMA testing, and community care15:09 - Honoring people where they are on the spectrum of use17:28 - “Brave space” over “safe space”18:41 - TJ shares faith-based perspective on harm reduction20:00 - The roots of KMFK and “Candy F***ing Carter”21:45 - Expanding into condoms, Plan B, and other peer services23:11 - From underground raves to national recognition24:56 - Carter’s current roles at PA Groundhogs and more25:10 - Learning harm reduction tools for meth use26:50 - Proper dosing, sleep, and hydration strategies28:20 - Setting personal boundaries and red flags30:08 - Support system and what keeps Carter grounded31:30 - Where to find Carter and KMFK online🔗 Resources Mentioned:https://grassrootsharmreduction.orghttps://pagroundhogs.orghttps://linktr.ee/kmfksafetyservicesKMFK Safety Services on Instagram & Facebook📧 Contact Carter: contactcartergraves@gmail.com 📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode to support honest conversations around addiction recovery, substance use, and harm reduction. ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 181 | TJ and Mickey delve into Mickey's personal journey of long-term recovery. Mickey shares her raw and inspiring story, starting from her early exposure to alcohol and drugs, leading up to a DUI that became the turning point in her life. She speaks candidly about her struggles with addiction to various substances, including alcohol, cannabis, and prescription medications. Mickey also discusses her traumatic childhood experiences, which included abuse and neglect, and how these influenced her path toward addiction. Through sheer determination and multiple therapeutic approaches, including AA, holistic practices, and therapy, Mickey has transformed her life. She reflects on the spiritual experiences that reconnected her with a higher power and the importance of community support in her recovery journey. Mickey's story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of seeking help and building a new life, free from substances. 00:00 Introduction and Host Backgrounds00:22 Mickey's Early Exposure to Substances01:05 High School and Early Drug Use02:57 Struggles with Addiction and Employment06:16 Family and Childhood Trauma09:46 Return to Connecticut and Continued Addiction13:46 The Turning Point: DUI and Therapy16:30 Journey to Sobriety and AA Meetings19:52 Exploring Alternative Recovery Paths21:17 Spiritual Awakening and Nature's Influence23:24 Ongoing Recovery and Therapy25:36 Final Thoughts and Advice for Newcomers ----Across the Web----🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery