As we continue our six-part Founding Voices series, episode sixty-eight of the Real Recovery Podcast revisits the powerful journey of Roger—one of the original voices who helped shape our community. First shared in episode four, Roger’s story is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the enduring impact of service. Today, Roger is not only a dedicated volunteer and mentor in the recovery community, but also a cherished friend to both of your hosts. His unwavering commitment to reaching out to newcomers and supporting others on their path to sobriety exemplifies the spirit of recovery that defines our podcast

As we continue growing and connecting with new listeners, we’re taking a moment to revisit the foundation of our journey—the voices that helped launch the Real Recovery Podcast. In this special six-part Founding Voices series, we’re re-releasing the original episodes that laid the groundwork for everything this podcast has become. These early conversations captured something raw, real, and deeply resonant—and their impact still echoes today.

​In Episode 66 of the Real Recovery Podcast, Julie and Peter sit down with Dontae Mathis—a father, a survivor, and a voice of strength within the recovery community. Dontae’s story is one of trauma, transformation, and the courageous choice to step into the light after years of addiction, incarceration, and personal loss.

From addiction and homelessness to service and sobriety, Tristan’s story shows the power of daily surrender and hard-won resilience.

In episode 65 of the Real Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Tristan S., a courageous young man whose journey through addiction, trauma, and homelessness nearly ended in tragedy—but ultimately led to transformation. At just 29 years old, Tristan has survived more than most endure in a lifetime. His scars, both visible and hidden, tell a story of pain, perseverance, and profound hope.

​In Episode 64 of the Real Recovery Podcast, Grant S. joins Julie and Peter to share a compelling and deeply reflective story of recovery. His journey defies the stereotypes: no DUIs, no arrests, and no lost jobs. But behind the image of success was a man battling alcohol dependency, anxiety, and emotional disconnection. With clarity, humility, and passion, Grant opens up about his upbringing in rural Oregon, the slow build of daily drinking, and the moment that forced him to face the truth.

In episode 63 of the Real Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Tiffany A., whose story begins in a place few can imagine—born inside a Mexican prison. Raised between two drastically different worlds and shaped by generational trauma, Tiffany’s life story reveals what it means to survive, to lose yourself, and to come back home to healing and purpose. This episode is a powerful reflection on responsibility, recovery, and rediscovering motherhood.