The Lose Control Podcast

Seth Vallett’s life has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, a symphony of triumphs and struggles. Born in the heart of Macon, Georgia, he emerged from a close-knit family—a tapestry woven with love and resilience. As a teenager, Seth danced on the edge of existence, drawn to mind-altering substances like a moth to a flame. These choices led him down a treacherous path, where addiction wrapped its tendrils around his soul, threatening to extinguish his light. The future seemed uncertain, a foggy landscape where hope flickered like a distant star. But in the midst of this darkness, Seth found unwavering support. His wife and family stood by his side, warriors in the battle against addiction. Together, they weathered storms, fought demons, and held onto the fragile thread of hope. Rehabilitation centers became Seth’s battlegrounds, and he faced more than ten overdose incidents—each a near miss, a second chance. Yet it was a seemingly ordinary six-day detox that altered the course of his life forever. In those quiet moments, Seth encountered Jesus Christ—a revelation that transformed his pain into purpose. Faith became the cornerstone of his recovery, a lighthouse guiding him through the tempest. Today, Seth stands as a testament to resilience. He wears honesty like armor, love like a warm embrace. In his community, he is more than a name; he is a beacon—a devoted father, a successful business owner, a friend, a role model. His scars tell stories of battles fought and won, etched into his skin like chapters of a gripping novel. Beyond personal growth, Seth finds solace in the wild. Hunting and fishing are his cathedrals, where he connects with nature and himself. But it doesn’t end there. Seth’s heart spills over with compassion—he gives back through service work, a ripple of kindness in a troubled world. He whispers to others in their darkest hours: “There is hope.” Seth believes that every twist of fate, every stumble, happens for a reason. His recovery journey, spanning nearly two years, is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of redemption. So, remember Seth Vallett—a survivor, a warrior, a man who turned brokenness into beauty. His story echoes through time, a melody of hope for those who listen  

Episode Title: Simply Katie — Unfolding, Unapologetic & Unfinished Series Theme: A Paradox to Positive, Peaceful Living Guest: Katie (aka Katie B, Katie W, Katie U) Sobriety Date: September 23, 2005  Episode Summary This week, we sit with a woman whose story doesn’t just echo through the rooms—it roars through the silence most people are too afraid to face. Katie has lived many lives under many names, but today, she’s stripped it all down. She’s simply Katie. Nearly 20 years sober, Katie’s journey is one of chaos, clarity, and courage. From childhood trauma and addiction by age 15 to a suicide attempt at 20, her path to recovery began with a single act of surrender. She found refuge in Oxford House and rebuilt her life—one breath, one breakdown, one truth at a time. Katie’s recovery is layered and lived. She’s a sponsor, treasurer, and servant leader in the rooms. She’s helped the very friend who gave her her first drink find sobriety years later. Her story is full-circle. Full of grit. Full of grace. She’s known redemption: a career in finance, homeownership, and financial freedom. And reckoning—spending a night in jail sober after 19 years, facing demons she thought were buried. Her life is proof that recovery isn’t a finish line—it’s a daily choice. Katie finds peace in meditation, nature, and the power of pen and paper. The Big Book isn’t just something she reads—it’s something she breathes. She’s never cured. Always becoming. Her family is the tribe she’s found in recovery. Her soul rests best by the ocean or a mountain river. She’s danced, cried, created, and sat in the stillness of early morning coffee with nothing but gratitude and grit. This episode isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. It’s about what happens when you lose control of the life you thought you wanted… and find the one you were born to live.

Today’s guest is someone who hasn’t just lived through life’s seasons—he’s been shaped, shattered, and spiritually reassembled by them. From Catholic boyhood and altar steps to the chaos of addiction and unspoken wounds… From the reckless rebellion of youth to decades lost in boardrooms, barrooms, and blurred boundaries... From collapsing under the weight of ego to rising with humility as compass. This isn’t just a story—it’s a resurrection. Ted Bower’s life is a layered testimony: innocence undone, trauma absorbed, rebellion ignited, and clarity earned. He’s walked through silence, storms, and surrender. And he’s come out the other side not perfect—but honest. Not untouched—but transformed. What looks like rock bottom? For him, it was the ground floor of transformation. Where Step One wasn't just recovery language—it was a spiritual reckoning. Through God-moments and brutal honesty, through Steps and service, Ted discovered that true healing doesn’t come in the absence of pain—it’s born right in the middle of it. His path reveals something simple but profound: the disease doesn’t need liquor, and the soul doesn’t need applause. It needs truth. Stillness. And a willingness to be undone. Now, at 50+, Ted isn’t finished—he’s barely scratching the surface. Still dissolving. Still listening. Still becoming. So if you’ve ever found yourself caught between projection and purpose, performance and peace… this one’s for you. This is not just a conversation. It’s a confession. A reckoning. A spiritual initiation into the seasons that shape us… and the choices that save us. Let’s dive in.

Submergence is not our end—it's how we begin again. On The Lose Control Podcast, we explore what happens when we stop clutching for control... and start trusting the pull. Because life doesn’t just ask us to let go—it pulls us under. Into grief. Into love. Into silence. Into seasons that don’t make sense on paper but are perfectly designed to shape our becoming. Submergence is the paradox: we sink in order to rise. We dissolve in order to become whole. The invitation isn’t to drown. It’s to surrender. To be undone. Unnamed. Unraveled. Because underneath the surface is where transformation gets real. It’s dark there. Pressurized. Sacred. But that’s the birthplace of peace—not the manufactured kind, but the raw, rooted kind. The kind that breathes under weight. Lose control—not as defeat, but as initiation. Because what if peace isn’t found in holding it all together… But in letting yourself fall apart on purpose? On this show, we don’t glorify drowning. We honor the dive. We talk about the courage it takes to fall beneath the ego. To be still. To be stripped. And to rise—not perfect, but honest. Not untouched, but transformed. If you’re feeling like you’re sinking, good. Maybe that’s exactly where your freedom begins. Not above. But beneath. Where control is surrendered And the real you gets born.  

Resentment is a slow poison—one that corrodes the spirit, erodes peace, and traps you in a cycle of stagnation. It festers, feeding off unspoken wounds and unfinished battles, making you more bitter, more disconnected, more imprisoned in your own mind. And the truth is, no one else suffers as much as you do when resentment takes hold. It rots from the inside out. The antidote? Honest, fearless communication—with yourself first. Because if you can’t be real with yourself, every other relationship suffers. You can’t truly function at your highest level, process emotions with clarity, or connect deeply with others. Growth begins when you stop running from your own thoughts and instead build a working relationship with them—when you sit with your feelings, acknowledge them without judgment, and decide to move forward with clarity. Find a tribe that lives in a way that resonates with you. Watch how they move, how they carry themselves, how they navigate adversity. Align yourself with people who don’t just talk about change—but live it. And when you find that, lean into it. Adapt, evolve, follow in their footsteps until you carve your own way. Believe in something greater than yourself—a Higher Calm, a bigger purpose, a guiding force that keeps you steady when life gets chaotic. Trust that even when things feel uncertain, there’s a plan unfolding. You don’t have to have it all figured out today. Give yourself grace. Allow room for mistakes, for missteps, for imperfection. Because here’s the reality—there are no do-overs. We get one shot at this life. And the only way to truly live it is to accept that we are all figuring it out as we go. So drop the weight of resentment. Be brutally honest with yourself. Move toward people who elevate you. Trust in something bigger. And give yourself the grace to grow.

Rosalynn Bourgeois, known as Roz, was born and raised just outside of Washington, DC, in PG County, MD. Growing up as a minority in a tumultuous household, she constantly felt the pressure to fit in and seek attention, especially with her parents embroiled in constant conflict. Roz identifies as a recovering Catholic, having endured religious beliefs that were aggressively forced upon her in a manner she describes as spiritually abusive. The weight of this upbringing required years of therapy to unravel and heal from, a journey she embarked on after achieving sobriety.  Despite the chaos, Roz excelled in school and was a dedicated soccer player. She graduated with an Economics degree but fell into a toxic relationship and eventually cracked. A psychotic relapse spiraled out of control, driving Roz to move to Charlotte in a desperate bid to "escape" life. For nine harrowing months, she hit rock bottom, DJing for days without sleep, entangled in a chaotic cycle of self-destruction. Her first arrest was in 2008, leading to a felony and time in county jail. Weekends in county became a nightmare after a dirty urine test sent her to prison for three years. Vowing to never use again, Roz quickly found herself back in the same destructive patterns.. It was in 2013, at a rehab in Michigan, that Roz finally found the lifeline she needed to get clean.. A decade ago, she walked into her last rehab with a felony record, a dismal 500 credit score, and an empty bank account. Her personal relationships were in tatters, ravaged by addiction, childhood trauma, and the severe emotional immaturity that came from years of drug-induced self-centeredness. Though her journey wasn't without setbacks, Roz has been thriving since 2015, relentlessly dedicated to transforming her life and mindset. Today, Roz stands as a testament to the power of relentless dedication and profound personal growth. Her journey from the depths of despair to a life filled with achievement and purpose is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's capacity for change. Roz's story is one of passionate resolve, illustrating that no matter how deep the fall, the climb back up is always possible with unwavering commitment and the right support. Roz stands as a triumphant force, embodying the power of transformation and resilience. As the Director of Business Development for her employer, she brings her wealth of experience and drive to her role. Roz holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree, and she is licensed to sell real estate in Hawaii, She owns three properties through the business she created, reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit and hard work. Roz’s journey has taken her across the globe, allowing her to experience the richness of over 20 countries a testament to her unwavering determination and skill. Married to a loving and supportive man, Roz has built a life of stability and love.. Roz's personal relationships and entire life have blossomed beyond her wildest dreams, a direct result of her decision to take control of her destiny. Her story is not just about overcoming addiction but about harnessing the strength within to build a life of purpose and fulfillment. Roz's journey is a profound testament to the indomitable human spirit and the incredible possibilities that arise when we dare to reclaim our lives. Her path to recovery has been nothing short of extraordinary. She passionately declares "I am the creator of my world, so I better make choices that align with my dreams,". For Roz, it's about reclaiming her life from the grip of addiction and living with intention, on her own terms. Her story is a powerful testament to the human spirit's resilience and the unwavering commitment to personal growth. Roz has emerged as a beacon of transformation and resilience. 

Brian Ready is not just a national recovery advocate, speaker, and motivational coach—he is a beacon of hope and transformation. A devoted father to three beautiful daughters and a loving husband to his wife, Kimberly, Brian embraces the privilege of working alongside her every day, united in their mission to guide others on the path to recovery. As the visionary founder of Oaks Recovery, one of the nation’s preeminent 12-step recovery programs nestled in upstate South Carolina, Brian has committed his life to forging a sanctuary where individuals can find solace, support, and profound change. Oaks Recovery is more than just a program; it is a lifeline extended to individuals from every corner of the globe, offering them the compassion, tools, and unwavering love necessary to break free from the shackles of addiction. Brian's own arduous journey through addiction and recovery ignites his fervor for advocacy and outreach. It is this very experience that has crystallized his belief in the transformative power of community, accountability, the 12 steps, and the gift of second chances. Whether addressing audiences on national stages, coaching individuals with personalized care, or immersing himself in hands-on recovery work, Brian's unwavering dedication to igniting hope and a renewed sense of purpose in others is evident. His mission transcends the ordinary: to change lives, restore families, and unequivocally demonstrate that recovery is within reach for anyone ready to take that first courageous step and commit to the arduous yet rewarding journey toward genuine freedom from alcoholism and drug addiction. Brian Ready is living proof that with passion, perseverance, and a supportive community, the light at the end of the tunnel is not just a glimmer—it is a radiant sunrise heralding a new beginning.  

I must be willing to do whatever “anything” looks like to help another alcoholic. This means offering unwavering friendship and fellowship, and assuring him that if he genuinely desires to get well, I will do anything to support him on his journey. The bond we create is founded on trust, empathy, and shared experience.  Pg 95 You can have what we have, no strings attached. However, this comes with the need for brutal honesty with oneself. You must be willing to change every pattern in your life and be consistent. Consistency is not about doing the same thing over and over, but about doing what needs to be done next. Implementing discipline is essential, and through this process, we transform each other by creating an intimate and supportive relationship. We are powerless over alcohol and our lives have become unmanageable: This fundamental acknowledgment is the first step towards healing. Recognizing our powerlessness over alcohol and the chaos it brings into our lives opens the door to seeking help and change. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity: Embracing the belief in a higher power—whether it be a spiritual presence, a supportive community, or another source of strength—brings hope and guidance. This belief fosters a sense of purpose and direction in the recovery process. Made a conscious decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God, as we understood Him: This step is about surrendering control and trusting in the higher power identified in Step 2. It involves making a profound commitment to follow a new path, allowing this higher power to guide our actions and decisions. Through these steps, we embark on a journey of profound personal transformation, supporting each other and embracing the possibility of a better future. This process not only fosters individual growth but also strengthens the bonds of fellowship and shared recovery.  

Margery Bailey's life is a gripping saga of resilience and profound transformation. Born in Sacramento, CA, she approaches her 50th birthday with a story that speaks to the depths of human struggle and the triumph of spirit. Raised in a turbulent alcoholic Irish Catholic household with two sisters, including an identical twin, Margery's early years were steeped in chaos. Her father, a Vietnam veteran, battled severe depression and PTSD, profoundly shaping her understanding of the world. Yet, his playful moments—enjoying George Carlin, Belushi on SNL, and dancing to Motown records—etched endearing memories that stayed with her. Margery's deeply religious mother remained steadfastly connected to her Catholic church, offering a stark contrast to the disorder at home. Margery's talent and drive earned her acceptance into an Arts Magnet High School, where she thrived in voice and acting, directed plays, and toured military bases, senior facilities, and Japan with a high school jazz choir. But after high school, the protective bubble burst. Moving out of her restrictive and religious home, Margery faced the harsh realities of juggling university, work, and independence in San Francisco. The pressure led to a breakdown and a return to Sacramento. Determined, she completed her education while working three jobs, saving money for a move to Los Angeles, where she spent three years as a producer before relocating to New York. In New York City, the chaos intensified. Within just four months, the Twin Towers fell, and Margery's drinking spiraled out of control. Seeking solace, she returned to California, immersed herself in hot yoga, and became a realtor just as the dot-com bubble burst, causing her to lose everything. By 2007, despite becoming a hot yoga teacher and mentoring under a powerful yogi, her alcohol consumption, depression, and sadness grew worse. Motherhood at nearly 40 triggered early menopause, pushing Margery into researching and writing about healing. Observing that some in yoga found healing while others remained stuck, she began writing "Thinking About Chakra." However, its esoteric nature seemed out of reach for many. She realized that true healing required inner work, focusing on breath work and surrender rather than just physical postures. 2024 marked a pivotal turning point. A month before her 49th birthday, Margery decided to stop drinking. Her health had deteriorated after the Johnson & Johnson vaccine in 2021, and a move to South Carolina exacerbated her symptoms. The accumulated grief finally demanded her attention. As a single mom, she had justified her wine nights but came to see that alcohol was detrimental during menopause. Margery spent this year crafting a workbook/journal for peri-menopausal and menopausal women, filled with tools she wished she had known a decade ago. Ready to self-publish, she aims to share her insights with women in need. Margery's transformation from a chaotic upbringing to a spiritually enriched life is a testament to her resilience and commitment to personal growth. Now, she stands poised to inspire and support other women facing similar challenges, guiding them out of darkness and into the light of self-discovery and healing.

Hype's story is one of unimaginable pain and redemption. Born in prison, he faced a life of hardship from the very beginning. At 11, he witnessed his mother's death, and by 12, he endured relentless physical abuse. In a desperate act of self-defense, Hype set his abuser on fire, leading to a sentence of juvenile life. He was released at 19, only to face more turmoil. In 2001, Hype's twin brother was deployed overseas, but Hype was denied the chance to join him because of his criminal record. In a fit of rage and despair, in January 2002, he stormed a federal courthouse with pipe bombs and assault rifles, resulting in a conviction for domestic terrorism and a 480-month sentence in a high-security prison. The loss of his twin to suicide, driven by PTSD from military service, only deepened Hype's anguish. While incarcerated, Hype's anger led him to assault another inmate, leaving the man to die of hypothermia in a prison freezer. This act sent Hype to the A.D.X. Supermax security prison, all before he turned 25. Tragedy continued to follow Hype. He accidentally killed his wife and her son in a car wreck, leaving him lost and alone, feeling destined to live in hell on earth. In his despair, Hype found himself drawn to a supremacist group, seeking a sense of belonging in a dark place. But amidst the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged. Hype was saved by the blood of Jesus Christ, shed for humanity on Calvary. God pulled him from the depths of hell, showing him a path to redemption. Hype learned to love himself and others after years of becoming calloused. He fell in love once again and began to start a new life, a new soul with a gift from God—a soulmate. However, Hype endured yet another loss. Despite finding redemption and growth, his girlfriend relapsed and committed suicide. Hype found himself in such despair, feeling destined only to experience grief, pain, and heartache, he thoughts led to one final answer to stop the pain. It was then that God revealed to Hype his true purpose: to help save other young boys from the same trauma he endured. To help others escape the shackles of self-loathing and self-destruction. Through his faith and newfound mission, Hype transformed his life, dedicating himself to guiding others out of the darkness and into the light.

Introducing our special guests this week: Ashleigh and Lance Cline – “This is the life I prayed for.” Ashleigh and Lance's story began in 2019 when they connected through the Any Length Recovery Facebook page. At that time, Ashleigh was just four months out of prison, starting to rebuild her life, while Lance was emerging from his own prison, the trap houses of W. Baltimore. Both were early in their recovery journeys, with Lance seeking convenience rather than a relationship. Ashleigh made it clear she wasn't interested in casual encounters, and they decided to take it slow—a new experience for both. They spent a month talking on the phone, getting to know each other. Once Ashleigh regained her license, she drove to Sumter to visit Lance, living at a men's recovery home, working full-time, and learning how to navigate life as an honest, responsible person. She drove every chance she got and began to fall in love. Initially, Lance viewed their connection as short-term and superficial. Despite their differences, they found solace, peace, and understanding in each other, creating an unshakeable foundation. Those weekend visits became a cherished routine. Not long after, Lance experienced a new season of true love. He got a car, and together they maximized their time, traveling back and forth. Trust came naturally despite the distance. The power of a Higher Calm unveiled true love and brought them closer. Ashleigh fell in love with Lance's passion and commitment to recovery—his very essence. Lance fell in love with Ashleigh’s smile, goofy energy, and zeal for life. On June 18, 2022, Ashleigh and Lance got married. Over the years, these two unlikely personalities have grown immensely together. Their love story is like a fairytale written by the Coen Brothers, transforming from hell to heaven on earth—a metamorphosis from a worm to a beautiful butterfly. They have learned to take responsibility and build their lives side by side, brick by brick. Honest and raw communication has been the cornerstone of their marriage, preventing real trials and tribulations. Navigating life as sober individuals, they continuously help others along the way. Lance and Ashleigh are best friends and steadfast supporters in all areas of life. They are deeply in love with the concept of family and are committed to being a part of it. They understand the importance of giving advice when needed and practicing reflective listening to truly connect with each other's souls and thoughts. Their journey together is a testament to growth, love, and mutual support.    

Chris Lane, 35, was born in the small town of Rumford, Maine.  At the age of five, he moved with his parents to the rural parts of Columbia and Lexington, South Carolina. Growing up, Chris witnessed most of his family either battling addiction or navigating recovery. Following this difficult family legacy, he began drinking at 14. Like many, his relationship with alcohol saw peaks and valleys, his daily life revolving around his next drink. In 2020, as the world spiraled out of control, so did Chris's drinking. It became a constant companion, making work and everyday activities impossible to face sober. It wasn’t until 2023 that Chris finally entered a recovery program, a journey marked by multiple relapses. Only at Oaks Recovery, where he found true enlightenment and a profound spiritual shift, did Chris realize he needed no reservations—just trust in the process. By surrendering control and embracing his Higher Power, he discovered that recovery is real. Today, Chris’s story is one of resilience and transformation.  Embracing self-awareness with tenderness has allowed him to grow and heal, turning his vulnerabilities into strengths.  This vulnerability creates a space for honest connection, allowing him and his fellows to truly understand and support each other. Chris's journey proves that even in the face of adversity, there is hope and a path forward.

Ashleigh Cline is a certified peer support specialist at Westview Behavioral Health. After a turbulent road filled with addiction, trauma, and significant personal loss her story has transformed dramatically from one of despair to one of resilience and post-traumatic growth. Her twelve-year battle with addiction marked the beginning of a profound journey of self-discovery, leading her to the threshold of recovery. On January 26, 2025, Ashleigh will celebrate seven years of sobriety. Her recovery journey now centers around sharing her experiences of addiction, loss, 17 months of incarceration, and eventual recovery. Refusing to be haunted by her past, Ashleigh chose to turn her suffering into a source of courage and support for others. By actively participating in the recovery community, she has witnessed how resilience can transform lives-not just her own, but also those she has had the honor to help. Each shared story becomes a beacon of hope, demonstrating that overcoming hardship and finding meaning beyond addiction is possible. In March 2023, at 43 years old, Ashleigh returned to college at Limestone University to pursue her bachelor's degree in social work. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA, she is on track to graduate in December 2024. Her academic journey has been challenging yet incredibly rewarding, reaffirming her commitment to helping others. With a blend of personal experience and professional training, Ashleigh plans to begin working as an addiction and substance use counselor in December. Her journey through recovery has provided her with a unique perspective and deep empathy for those facing similar struggles. Ashleigh is dedicated to positively impacting the lives of individuals battling addiction, guiding them toward their own paths to recovery, just as she found hers.    

This week’s conversation is with a small group of people interested in understanding my design for living. The conversation is raw and honest, and not everyone may be receptive to it. This is the beauty of choice. We no longer have to live our lives concerned about others’ opinions and expectations of us. Find your tribe, seek out mentors—more than one if possible. Love yourself, continue to grow, and aim to be 1% better every day. We stay focused on the solution, always striving to be better than we were yesterday. True transformation doesn’t come from mere contemplation; it requires action. You can’t think your way into right thinking; you have to act your way into it. Embrace self-love and recognize that your Higher Power is always present, waiting for you to open that channel. Detach your ego and eliminate reactive behaviors. Take criticism not as a setback but as an opportunity for growth. Objectively assess its validity and calmly evaluate the feedback. This enhances our ability to navigate challenging personalities and situations with grace. The ability to differentiate between the mountains of criticism and negativity we face daily and the opportunities they present is vital for personal and professional growth. Using criticism to focus on our present emotional intellect helps us stay mentally and emotionally in the moment. This is a pivotal skill for avoiding the darkness that comes with resentment and defensiveness. Prioritize intellect over emotion (I over E). By focusing on these principles, we can cultivate a life of continuous improvement and resilience. It’s about embracing the journey, learning from every experience, and finding strength in our connections and self-love Enjoy the conversation.

Lance Cline hails from the heart of Maryland. His childhood was shaped within the nurturing yet challenging environment of Recovery, as both of his parents have been steadfast in their Recovery journey for over 40 years. This unique upbringing instilled in Lance a deep understanding of the struggles and triumphs that come with addiction and recovery. In 2017, Lance’s world was shattered when he lost his brother to a fentanyl overdose. The grief and despair that followed were overwhelming, plunging Lance into a dark abyss of hopelessness and self-doubt. This profound loss became the catalyst for his own battle with addiction, leading Lance down a harrowing path that left him homeless on the unforgiving streets of Baltimore. Lance’s journey to recovery was anything but straightforward. It took the relentless pursuit of healing through 20 treatment centers before he finally found solace in surrender and acceptance. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Lance’s transformation. Today, Lance stands proud, having been sober for six years. His unwavering belief in the 12 steps and the transformative power of service to others has been the cornerstone of Lance’s recovery. This commitment to helping others has not only fortified his own sobriety but has also given Lance a life, profound in meaning and purpose. Every day, Lance strives to live in the solution, embracing the challenges and joys that come with a life dedicated to recovery. Lance’s mission is to guide others towards the light of recovery, offering hope and support to those still struggling. Through Lance’s journey, he has learned that even in our darkest moments, there is always a path to redemption and a chance to rebuild our lives with love, compassion, and unwavering determination.

Jamar’s odyssey to recovery commenced on March 17th, 2018, a date etched in his memory as the beginning of a profound transformation. His narrative is a harrowing tapestry woven with threads of deep-seated depression, excruciating pain, and an overwhelming sense of hopelessness and worthlessness. These emotions, intertwined with unmanageability, selfishness, and self-seeking behaviors, propelled him into an abyss of darkness. Jamar’s struggle with addiction was punctuated by harrowing episodes of suicidal ideation, seething rage, and a relentless cycle of denial and justification. Jamar’s descent into substance use began at the tender age of 13 or 14. The very first encounter with a substance was a revelation, an intoxicating escape from a reality he found unbearable. Drugs, and any other means of obliterating his consciousness, swiftly became his paramount obsession. Despite not being overtly rebellious, Jamar was a soul in turmoil, grappling with the scars of abandonment and other personal demons. He fulfilled his obligations, such as attending school, but the hours after school became a sanctuary for his substance use. Marijuana was his initial refuge, but as his addiction spiraled, he resorted to any substance he could procure. Today, Jamar stands as a beacon of hope, a living testament to the possibility of recovery and the relentless journey it entails. No longer confined to a self-imposed prison, he embraces life with the gratitude of a recovering addict. His story is a powerful testament to the indomitable strength and resilience required to conquer addiction and rediscover hope and purpose in recovery.

April Parker grew up in Indian Land, South Carolina, often escaping her tumultuous home life by playing outside, reading, and pretending to be a teacher. Despite being molested by her siblings and ignored by her parents, who were preoccupied with her father’s alcoholism, April excelled in academics and sports, earned a scholarship to Winthrop University, becoming the first in her family to attend college, and graduated with a BS in Elementary Education  During college, she met her ex-husband, became pregnant, and was pressured into marriage, only to later discover he was already married and living under a false identity from Africa. Despite these challenges, April supported her family, completed her education, and became a middle school science teacher.  After her father’s death from cancer in 2014, April felt lost but remained self-sufficient. However, she began using and selling drugs, got involved in illegal activities, and neglected her children. She quit teaching due to a scandal and turned to high-dollar prostitution and drug dealing, losing herself in the process. April was raped multiple times, and was incarcerated on October 20, 2020, leaving her kids under the care of gang members. Social services eventually stepped in and placed her kids with her mother, who then handed them to her ex-husband. Encouraged by a fellow inmate, April sought help from the chaplain and realized she didn’t want to live like this anymore. The incarceration was April’s start to a life of sobriety, with a sobriety date of October 21, 2020. After getting a bond, she went to a Sober Living home, although she stopped using drugs, April struggled with ingrained behaviors and the need for attention. Even though April was clean, the darkness continued to grow. April finally surrendered, began working the 12 steps, attending meetings and established a fitness and nutrition routine that brought her spiritual peace and a deeper connection with God. April met a wonderful man who taught her about love, service, family, and recovery, but he passed away from COVID shortly after celebrating 14 years of sobriety. Despite numerous challenges, April found direction and support, choosing sobriety over the urge to use. She moved back into Sober Living home and began working at a treatment center. April dedicated herself to serving others as guided by God. April now has a stable relationship with her kids, is engaged, and actively helps women in recovery, including sponsoring females in prison. She states, “Watching them heal, helps me heal”. April is involved in an addiction ministry, maintains strict routines and behaviors. April embodies the statement:  “Living by the power of Christ and striving to love like Jesus until I am called to Heaven”.

Julie’s Journey to Authenticity  INSTAGRAM: Julie_Cole_Coaching / Julie@JulieCole.org Julie Cole sat in the dimly lit room, her fingers tracing the edges of her sobriety coin. Twenty-six years. It felt like a lifetime and a heartbeat all at once. The room was filled with others—strangers who had become confidantes, their stories woven together like a patchwork quilt of resilience. “If you live sober long enough,” Julie thought, “you’ll face joys and heartbreaks that cut to the core.” She knew this truth intimately. The laughter of newfound friends, the tears shed for lost loved ones—it was all part of the tapestry of recovery. Julie’s journey hadn’t been pretty. It had been raw, messy, and achingly real. She’d stumbled, fallen, and risen again. Her transparency was her strength, her authenticity a beacon for those still finding their way. As the owner of Julie Cole Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, LLC, Julie took a holistic approach to helping others. She understood that healing wasn’t just about abstinence; it was about rebuilding shattered lives. Her clients weren’t statistics; they were souls seeking redemption. The #loveher Podcast was her passion project—a space where authenticity reigned. Julie’s soothing voice carried stories of triumph and struggle, weaving hope into the airwaves. Listeners tuned in, nodding along as she shared her own battles—the messy divorce, the late-night cravings, the quiet victories. Twenty-five years in social work and substance use disorder counseling had etched lines of compassion on Julie’s face. She’d held trembling hands, wiped tears, and celebrated small victories. Her heart swelled when a client found their voice or a lost soul discovered purpose. Public speaking was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Julie stood before crowds, her vulnerability a superpower. She spoke of resilience, of the beauty in brokenness. Her certifications—Licensed Master Social Worker, Certified Peer Support Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Health Coach, and Certified Nutrition Coach—were mere labels. What mattered was the fire within her—the unwavering belief that everyone deserved a second chance. At home, Julie juggled motherhood with grace. Two children, a spoiled dog, a guinea pig, two rats, and two fish—they were her heart. She taught them empathy, resilience, and the value of authenticity. They laughed together, huddled under blankets during thunderstorms, and whispered secrets late at night. And then there were her escapes—the gym, where sweat washed away worries; camping trips, where nature whispered ancient truths; hikes that led to mountaintop revelations; and travels that expanded her soul. Julie Cole—the woman who wore her scars proudly, who turned vulnerability into strength. Her journey wasn’t linear, but it was authentic. And as she sat in that room, surrounded by fellow travelers, she knew she was exactly where she needed to be.

Rachel’s profound journey to freedom is indeed a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the transformative power of recovery. Born into a challenging environment, she faced her struggles head-on. Rachel’s journey from dealing with an eating disorder and substance abuse to becoming a pillar of support and inspiration is nothing short of remarkable. By turning her life around and dedicating herself to helping others, Rachel exemplifies the strength that can emerge from adversity. Her dedication to mindfulness, community, and physical wellness has not only been a cornerstone of her own recovery but also a source of strength for those around her. As Rachel continues to support others and spread her message of recovery, she embodies the very essence of service. Her efforts are indeed making a significant impact, and her story will undoubtedly continue to guide and inspire many on their paths to healing and well-being. Rachel’s words, “Together we will continue to embrace the pillars of peaceful balance through seeking resources to support your journey, -I’m here to help,” reflect a powerful commitment to service and a reminder that no one is alone in their struggles. It’s a call to action for communities to come together, share resources, and uplift each other in the pursuit of well-being. “Rachel, your journey is a testament to the power of hope and the strength of the human spirit” – Matty I  

  3 Pillars to a Peaceful Balance: Mindfulness / Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help you cultivate awareness of the present moment, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Consider incorporating mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, body scans, or guided meditation into your daily routine. Community / Relationship: Building and maintaining meaningful connections with others is essential for emotional health. Engage with your community, whether through social activities, volunteering, or participating in group events. Supportive relationships provide a sense of belonging and contribute to a peaceful balance. Physical Wellness and Diet: Prioritize your physical health by adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise. Proper nutrition fuels your body and mind, while physical activity promotes vitality and reduces tension. Remember to stay hydrated and get adequate rest to maintain overall well-being.