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    RRP Episode 54 – Finding Strength in Recovery: Steve & Terri Harris on Love, Sobriety & Community

    A powerful story of resilience, love, and the journey to long-term sobriety.

    In RRP Episode 54 of the Real Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Steve & Terri Harris, a couple who have navigated the challenges of addiction and recovery together for over 25 years. Their story is one of love, perseverance, and the power of community in long-term sobriety.
    Steve and Terri share intimate details of their struggles, personal growth, and the invaluable lessons they’ve learned through their experiences in AA, Al-Anon, and professional recovery programs like Serenity Lane and Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation.
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    From Struggle to Sobriety: A Shared Journey

    Both Steve and Terri entered recovery separately, each having battled addiction for years before meeting at an AA convention. Their relationship grew out of a shared commitment to sobriety, and today, they credit their strong foundation to sticking to their program, community support, and ongoing service work.
    Steve, a longtime professional in the recovery field, opens up about his early struggles with addiction, relapses, and the pivotal moment that led him to long-term recovery. He recalls how professional guidance at Serenity Lane helped him shift his mindset and embrace structured recovery practices.
    "Recovery is not just about overcoming addiction; it's about rebuilding and strengthening the bonds that matter most." – Steve Harris
    For Terri, recovery was about learning to trust, setting boundaries, and discovering her own identity beyond addiction. She shares how her time at Hazelden Betty Ford shaped her approach to long-term sobriety and empowered her to give back to women in recovery.
    "Recovery is about showing up for yourself, your loved ones, and the life you never thought was possible." – Terry Webber-Harris

    The Role of Community & Support Systems

    One of the most powerful messages from this episode is the importance of community in sustaining recovery. Steve and Terri discuss how AA, Al-Anon, and recovery retreats have been essential to their personal growth and relationship success.
    They also stress the importance of mentorship, daily practices, and peer accountability, emphasizing that no one should walk the path of recovery alone.

    Breaking the Cycle: Raising a Family in Recovery

    Steve and Terri open up about the challenges of parenting while maintaining sobriety, acknowledging how addiction has impacted their family over generations.
    They share how they’ve navigated their children’s struggles with addiction, mental health challenges, and the cycle of generational trauma—and what’s helped them break free.
    Meanwhile, Terri is deeply involved in women’s recovery programs, helping others rebuild their lives and find empowerment in sobriety.
    "Helping others in recovery is a gift," Terri says. "It reminds me every day why I stay sober."
    Links to Websites Discussed:
    • Serenity Lane – A private, non-profit rehab center offering inpatient and outpatient services.
    • Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation – A leading provider of addiction treatment, mental health services, and advocacy.
    • AA – Alcoholics Anonymous official website.
    • Al-Anon – Support for families and friends of alcoholics.
    Steve and Terri’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, relationships, and structured recovery. Their journey serves as a beacon of hope for individuals and couples navigating addiction, proving that sobriety can be a foundation for love, strength, and lifelong transformation.
    Listen to their full story here:
    #RecoveryJourney #SupportSystems #AddictionRecovery #RealRecoveryPodcast
    @SerenityLaneHealth @HazeldenBettyFord
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    RRP Episode 53 - Darrell DuBois: Pioneering LGBTQ+ AA Recovery, The Live and Let Live Club & Surviving AIDS

    How one man’s courage helped shape LGBTQ+ recovery spaces while surviving the AIDS epidemic.

    In this powerful episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Darrell DuBois, a true pioneer in the LGBTQ+ recovery community. As one of the founding members of the Live and Let Live Club, Darrell helped create a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals in Alcoholics Anonymous when few such places existed. His journey is one of resilience, survival, and advocacy, as he also stands among the longest-surviving individuals diagnosed with AIDS in the United States.
    Darrell’s story highlights the importance of community in recovery, the challenges of being openly gay in a time of widespread discrimination, and the transformative power of living an authentic life. Join us as he shares his nearly 30 years of sobriety, the struggles and triumphs of founding one of Portland’s first LGBTQ+ AA meetings, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
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    Live and Let Live: Creating Safe Spaces for LGBTQ+ Recovery

    For those in the LGBTQ+ community, finding acceptance in recovery spaces was not always easy. Recognizing this need, Darrell became one of the founding members of the Live and Let Live Club, one of the first AA meeting spaces specifically designed to support LGBTQ+ individuals seeking sobriety.
    The Live and Let Live Club became a lifeline for many, providing a safe environment where members could speak openly about their experiences without fear of judgment. The club grew into a thriving community, welcoming countless individuals and offering them the support they needed to embrace recovery fully.

    Surviving the AIDS Epidemic and Finding Strength in Sobriety

    Darrell was diagnosed with AIDS in 1984, a time when the disease was poorly understood, and stigma was rampant. Doctors gave him little hope, but Darrell’s will to live, his recovery community, and medical advancements helped him defy the odds.
    Throughout his battle with AIDS, Darrell found support in organizations like Our House Portland, which provides compassionate care for those living with HIV/AIDS. He also found solace in the Portland Gay Men's Chorus, where music became a source of healing and connection.
    ​Despite the challenges, Darrell never returned to drinking or using. Instead, he turned to service, helping others in recovery and advocating for LGBTQ+ individuals facing addiction. His story is a testament to strength, resilience, and the power of community.
    "Had it not been for recovery, I know I would not be alive today."
    ​—Darrell DuBois

    Lessons from Nearly Three Decades of Sobriety

    Darrell’s story offers valuable lessons for anyone navigating recovery:
    • Community is everything. Finding the right people can make all the difference in maintaining long-term sobriety.
    • Honesty and authenticity lead to healing. Being able to tell your full story in recovery is essential.
    • Advocacy saves lives. Creating safe spaces for marginalized communities in recovery helps break the cycle of addiction.
    • Sobriety is a daily commitment. Darrell has remained committed to recovery despite facing unimaginable hardships.
    Darrell DuBois' journey is one of overcoming adversity, breaking down barriers, and leaving a lasting impact on the recovery community. From pioneering LGBTQ+ AA meetings to becoming one of the longest-living AIDS survivors, his story is a beacon of hope for anyone searching for recovery and belonging.
    Links to Websites Discussed:
    Listen to Darrell’s Full Story Here:
    #RealRecoveryPodcast #LiveAndLetLive #LGBTQRecovery #AddictionRecovery #ResilienceAndHope #AIDSSurvivor #SobrietyStories #CommunitySupport
  • Published on

    RRP Episode 52: Celebrating 1 Year of Sobriety Stories, with Al H. and Larry W. who Share 90 Years of Recovery Wisdom

    ​A Heartfelt Celebration of Sobriety, Friendship, and the Journey of Recovery

    In this monumental 52nd episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we celebrate an incredible milestone—one year of weekly episodes! Every week, we’ve brought you stories of resilience, strength, and hope, and today, we are so grateful to celebrate this anniversary with two amazing guests, Al H. and Larry W. Together, they have just over 90 years of sobriety, and their insights on recovery, friendship, and staying connected in sobriety are truly inspiring.
    sobriety stories, recovery wisdom, 90 years of sobriety, community support in recovery, Real Recovery Podcast, AA milestones, friendship in recovery, one year of podcasts

    Larry W., Al H., Julie L., Colette M., and Peter D.

    Al and Larry's 90 Years of Sobriety
    Both Al H. and Larry W. have walked the long road of recovery, and together, they represent just over 90 years of sobriety. Al and Larry’s friendship has been a cornerstone of their recovery. For over 40 years, they’ve supported each other, shared countless conversations, and helped each other stay sober through the ups and downs of life. Their bond is a testament to the power of recovery communities and the profound impact of having someone to lean on. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of how recovery is not just about abstinence from substances, but about embracing a new life filled with support, humor, and a sense of belonging.

    ​"Sobriety is a journey of self-discovery. The more I stay sober, the more I learn about myself and the person I want to become."
    —Al H.​


    ​"One day at a time. That’s the motto I’ve lived by, and it’s worked for over 50 years. There’s no magic—just commitment."
    —Larry W.
    ​
    ​The Importance of Friendship in Recovery
    In this episode, Al and Larry discuss the role that friendship plays in sustaining long-term sobriety. They talk about how their shared experiences have strengthened their commitment to sobriety and how their friendship has been vital in overcoming personal challenges. “Recovery is not a destination, it’s a lifestyle,” they both agree. Their wisdom is invaluable to anyone navigating the challenges of sobriety, and their friendship stands as a beacon of hope for those looking for connection and support.
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    ​Insights and Wisdom
    As they reflect on their just over 90 years of sobriety, Al and Larry share valuable insights for those in recovery or considering recovery. Their advice is grounded in years of lived experience and offers practical, heartfelt guidance for anyone on a similar path. They remind us that recovery is an ongoing process—a commitment to showing up each day, no matter what. Their message is clear: stay connected, embrace the journey, and lean into community.
    Gratitude for the Community 
    Peter and Julie take a moment to express their deep gratitude for the recovery community that has shaped the Real Recovery Podcast into what it is today. The podcast not only shares stories of recovery but also serves as a space where listeners can find support, understanding, and connection. This episode celebrates the individuals who make recovery possible—those who show up, support each other, and foster a sense of belonging in the world of sobriety.
    "We’d love to hear from you! Your feedback helps us grow and bring you the best stories of recovery. Drop us a message, share your thoughts, or let us know what topics you'd love to hear next!"
    — Julie & Peter
    As we celebrate one year of the Real Recovery Podcast, we are reminded of the incredible power of stories, friendship, and community in recovery. Al H. and Larry W.’s inspiring journey is a testament to the strength that comes from long-term sobriety and the unwavering bond of friendship. We’re so grateful to have had them on this special episode to celebrate not only a year of podcast episodes but also the ongoing journey of recovery that continues to unfold every day.
    #RealRecoveryPodcast, #SobrietyStories, #90YearsOfSobriety, #RecoveryJourney, #CommunitySupport, #AnniversaryCelebration, #HopeAndHealing, #RecoveryMilestones
  • Published on

    RRP Check-in 51.1 - One Year of Real Recovery: Milestones, Lessons, and Hope

    Celebrating One Year of Recovery Stories, Resilience, and the Power of Community

    Picture
    A Year of Stories, Growth, and Connection
    One year. Fifty-two episodes. Countless stories of hope, resilience, and transformation. Real Recovery Podcast has reached an incredible milestone, and in this special check-in episode, Julie and Peter reflect on the journey, sharing the highs, the challenges, and the incredible moments that have shaped their first year behind the mic.
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    Looking Back: The Power of Storytelling
    Since launching the Real Recovery Podcast, Peter and Julie have had the privilege of sitting down with some of the most inspiring voices in recovery. They’ve covered everything from personal journeys of overcoming addiction to powerful insights from advocates, treatment professionals, and community leaders. Each guest has brought a unique perspective, reinforcing the truth that recovery is not one-size-fits-all.

    "I think we’ve shown throughout these 52 episodes that there’s hope."
    —Peter
    ​
    ​They also discuss the emotional toll of hearing some of the most difficult stories. Some episodes left them deeply impacted, reminding them just how important these conversations are—not just for listeners, but for themselves as well.

    "Some stories hit so close to home that they physically affect you. But that’s the beauty of recovery—we relate, we learn, and we grow together."
    —Julie
    ​
    Challenges and Triumphs
    Producing a weekly show takes dedication, and Peter and Julie open up about the behind-the-scenes struggles, from financial concerns to balancing podcasting with their personal lives. They’ve pushed through because of their commitment to spreading hope and showcasing the different ways people find recovery.
    But with challenges come triumphs. They recall some of the most uplifting moments from the past year, like meeting listeners at recovery events, seeing Real Recovery Podcast T-shirts being worn proudly in the community, and hearing from people who say the podcast has helped them stay sober or find support.
    What’s Next? The Future of Real Recovery Podcast
    As they step into year two, Julie and Peter are setting their sights on growth. They want to:
    • Expand the podcast’s reach and bring recovery stories to even more people.
    • Continue covering live events, featuring voices from across the recovery community.
    • Improve production quality and invest in new tools to enhance the listening experience.
    • Introduce video podcasting for select episodes.
    But to make these things happen, they need the support of their listeners. They invite everyone to leave feedback at mdcr1.com/feedback and consider making a donation to help sustain and grow the podcast at donate.realrecoverypodcast.com.
    Links Discussed

    "We started this because we believed in the power of shared experiences. One year later, we know for sure—stories save lives."
    —Peter

    Join the Conversation
    Peter and Julie are beyond grateful for the listeners who have supported them from the beginning and for those just joining the journey. Whether you’ve listened to every episode or are just getting started, you are part of this recovery community.
    #RealRecoveryPodcast #OneYearReflections #PodcastAnniversary #RecoveryJourney #Resilience #HopeAndHealing #CommunitySupport #PeerDrivenRecovery
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    RRP Episode 51 - Running Toward Hope: Valerie Martinez’s Story of Overcoming Addiction and Building a New Life

    ​Valerie Martinez’s journey from addiction to advocacy showcases the power of running and community in transforming her life.

    In this powerful episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Valerie Martinez, whose journey through addiction, recovery, and advocacy has been nothing short of inspiring. Valerie's story is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the life-changing role of running. Through the challenges she faced growing up, including family trauma and substance abuse, Valerie found strength in herself and the communities that supported her. From overcoming the darkest moments to running toward hope, Valerie is a true example of recovery's transformative power.
    Early Struggles and Addiction:
    Valerie's early life was marked by family struggles, with addiction running through her household. Her father’s addiction was a silent presence, only visible when her parents' relationship began to unravel. At the age of nine, Valerie's family was torn apart, and the trauma would set her on a path to addiction. She began using drugs at the tender age of 11, finding solace in substances that numbed the pain and gave her a temporary escape. For years, her life spiraled as she struggled to balance family life, school, and the pull of addiction.
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    ​The Turning Point:
    When Valerie turned 13, she met her oldest child’s father, who, in her eyes, was everything she needed at the time—a stable figure who could offer a sense of security. However, the relationship quickly became toxic and abusive. Despite the chaos, Valerie took on the role of mother, sister, and protector at a young age. She had her first child at 16 and her second at 17, but the emotional and physical abuse from her partner led her back to drugs as a way to cope with the overwhelming pain. Valerie’s story took another devastating turn when her children were taken from her by their father, leading to years of deep shame and regret.
    Recovery and Running:
    The pivotal moment in Valerie’s recovery came when she was introduced to Fora Health, a treatment center that played a significant role in her journey to sobriety. It was here that Valerie discovered the healing power of running. Through her involvement with GTD – Go The Distance, Valerie began running to clear her mind and heal her body. As she shared with us, running became her metaphor for recovery—each mile represented a step away from her past and closer to the person she was becoming. "Recovery is about growing every day," Valerie shares, and running was her tool for personal growth.
    Community Support:
    Valerie credits much of her success in recovery to the supportive communities she found at Fora Health and through programs like GTD – Go The Distance. Peer-driven recovery programs like GTD provided her with the accountability and encouragement she needed to stay on track. She learned to trust herself and others, a lesson she continues to carry with her as she navigates life and sobriety. Running with a community of like-minded individuals helped Valerie form lasting bonds that reinforced her commitment to her recovery.
    ​"Recovery is about growing every day."
    – Valerie Martinez
    Giving Back and Advocacy:
    Today, Valerie works as an outreach worker, helping individuals who face challenges similar to those she once did. Through her work at 4D Recovery, Valerie helps those in need find resources, advocate for themselves, and build a life beyond addiction. She now shares her story widely, offering encouragement and hope to those who feel lost or alone in their journey. "You are not alone. Come home to recovery," Valerie emphasizes. Her work reminds us that recovery is not just about personal transformation; it’s about using your experiences to help others find their way.
    ​Valerie Martinez’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is not a destination, but a lifelong journey. Through the darkest times, Valerie found hope and strength through community, support, and the simple yet transformative act of running. Her story is proof that no matter where you start, with perseverance, self-compassion, and the right support, you can always run toward hope.
    ​#RealRecoveryPodcast, #AddictionRecovery, #ForaHealth, #GTD, #PeerDrivenRecovery, #RecoveryJourney, #HopeAndHealing, #CommunitySupport, @GTDgothedistance, @ForaHealth
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    RRP Episode 50 - Breaking Radio Silence: Lacy T’s Journey of Sobriety, Loss, and Strength

    Finding Hope in the Static: Lacy T’s Journey from Addiction to Recovery

    ​For decades, radio was Lacy T’s world. Behind the microphone, she had the voice of a confident broadcaster, but beyond the airwaves, she was struggling with an addiction that dictated her life. In RRP Episode 50, we sit down with Lacy as she opens up about the challenges of early sobriety, the impact of family history on addiction, and the heartbreak of losing a loved one to alcoholism. Her story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of community in breaking the silence around addiction.
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    From the Airwaves to Recovery: Lacy’s Story
    Lacy's journey through addiction started in a home where alcohol was a normal part of daily life. She grew up surrounded by drinking culture—cocktail parties, celebratory toasts, and the generational patterns that normalized excessive drinking. As a teenager, she began experimenting, first sneaking sips from her parents’ liquor cabinet and later engaging in reckless behavior. Her drinking escalated in college and into her career, where the fast-paced world of radio only fueled her dependency.
    “I always wanted more. Whether it was alcohol, attention, or success, I never felt satisfied,” Lacy recalls.
    Her addiction took her through multiple geographic relocations, or "geographics," where she hoped a fresh start would solve her problems. But no matter where she went, she always brought herself—and her drinking—with her.
    “There is absolutely nothing that you cannot get through sober. No matter how bad it is, you never have to do anything damaging to yourself again.” —Lacy T
    ​A Moment of Clarity
    Despite multiple close calls, including a car accident on a treacherous road known as “Dead Man’s Curve,” Lacy didn’t immediately stop drinking. It wasn’t until a life-altering moment—driving under the influence with her young stepdaughter asleep in the backseat—that she realized how dangerous her addiction had become.
    “I looked at the road, and the lines were blurry. And in that moment, I knew. This is a wall. You can’t do this anymore,” Lacy shares.
    Even after this terrifying realization, quitting wasn’t easy. She attempted to moderate her drinking, convinced she could find a way to control it. It wasn’t until she truly surrendered and sought out Alcoholics Anonymous that she began to understand the depth of her addiction and what it would take to recover.
    Loss, Grief, and the Reality of Alcoholism
    One of the most painful aspects of Lacy’s journey has been witnessing the devastating impact of addiction on loved ones. Her younger brother struggled with alcoholism, cycling through treatment programs but never quite making it to sustained recovery. In 2021, he passed away from alcohol-related complications.
    Lacy describes watching his decline with heartbreak, knowing all too well the battle he was fighting.
    “I tried to reach him, to get him to see that there was another way. But I also know, no one can force someone into recovery. They have to want it,” she says.
    Her experience with her brother has shaped how she approaches recovery today. She emphasizes the importance of staying connected, of recognizing that addiction is a terminal disease, and of reaching out even when it feels like nothing will change.
    Breaking the Silence
    Lacy’s journey reflects the essence of Real Recovery Podcast: raw, real, and rooted in the power of storytelling. Whether you’re newly sober, struggling with grief, or trying to support a loved one through addiction, her message is clear—community and honesty are lifelines.
    Her story serves as a reminder that addiction thrives in silence, but recovery flourishes when we share, connect, and break that silence together.
    #RealRecoveryPodcast #BreakingRadioSilence #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyStories #HopeAndHealing #RecoveryCommunity #AA #Resilience #Healing #PeerSupport