Breaking cycles, reclaiming motherhood, and choosing a new path
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.
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Family Shattered by Deportation
When Tiffany was just seven years old, almost her entire extended family was arrested and deported. The experience shattered the sense of security she had built with her tight-knit family. Only her immediate household remained, marking a painful rupture that would foreshadow further instability. “The entirety of my family was arrested and deported…”
A Childhood of Duality and Early Responsibility
Split between a highly religious, controlling household and a more permissive one, Tiffany internalized mixed messages about identity and belonging. Her mother’s relapse when Tiffany was only 12 left her to assume the role of caregiver to her younger siblings. She began acting out and looking for relief wherever she could find it.
The Long Road to Recovery
Tiffany’s recovery journey, while not linear, is marked by moments of clarity and commitment. She began to rebuild her life by facing the roots of her trauma, reclaiming her role as a mother, and speaking openly about the reality of addiction and healing. “Sometimes our best just doesn’t cut it—we have to do better than our best.”
Tiffany’s story is one of grit, grace, and growth. From the chaos of generational trauma and addiction to the beauty of reconnection and self-forgiveness, her journey reminds us that recovery isn’t about perfection—it’s about the willingness to keep showing up. Her words and story will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned if healing is possible.
Listen: https://mdcr1.com/63
Blog: https://mdcr1.com/63b
#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #BornBehindBars #HealingFromTrauma #MotherhoodInRecovery #TraumaToTransformation #RecoveryIsPossible @OxfordHouse
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How surviving a childhood brain injury and living with a mood disorder shaped Scott’s passion for advocacy and systemic change.
In this week’s episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we welcome Scott Spicer—a dynamic advocate whose recovery journey centers on mental health, dignity, and systems change. Scott shares candidly about surviving a childhood traumatic brain injury, being diagnosed with a mood disorder, and navigating a behavioral health system often unprepared to meet people where they are.
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Scott’s journey isn’t just about recovery—it’s about reclaiming identity, speaking truth to power, and showing up for others with compassion.
Reclaiming Life After Trauma
Scott describes how, for much of his early life, he didn’t have words for what he was feeling. What he now knows was a mood disorder went undiagnosed for years. A psychiatric crisis eventually led to hospitalization, where he began to reckon with how trauma and neurodivergence shaped his behavior, relationships, and self-worth. “I identify with mental health challenges, surviving a childhood traumatic brain injury and struggling with a mood disorder.”
This self-awareness marked a turning point in his path—not only toward healing but toward advocacy.
Working to Improve a Broken System
Scott’s story shines a light on the urgent need for equity in mental health services. His work with Central City Concern’s Flip the Script focuses on improving access and reducing barriers for individuals often left behind by traditional systems.
From helping bring COVID vaccines to behavioral health facilities with the Oregon Health Authority to collaborating with organizations like Another Chance Recovery, Fora Health, and Recovery Ways, Scott has dedicated himself to inclusive, community-based solutions.
Links to Websites Discussed:
Identity, Presence, and Purpose
One of the most powerful threads in Scott’s story is identity. As a gay man in recovery and a survivor of hidden disabilities, he speaks to the complexities of mental health stigma, especially when compounded by social marginalization.
Scott helped establish National Mental Health and Dignity Day and has been a vocal supporter of integrating trauma-informed care into programs like Measure 110, which funds detox and treatment options like Recovery Works NW and Hooper Detox.
“Our brain is an organ in our body, and we all deserve to be well.”
Scott Spicer’s story challenges the recovery community to look beyond binaries and diagnoses—to see the whole person, the lived experience, and the potential for change. By telling his truth, he’s helping others reclaim theirs.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes that recovery includes mental health, dignity, and the right to be seen.
#MentalHealthRecovery #RealRecoveryPodcast #JusticeInvolvedRecovery #HiddenDisabilities #RecoveryJourney #PeerMentor #AddictionRecovery #HopeAndHealing
@CentralCityConcern @RealRecoveryPodcast 
In episode 61 of the Real Recovery Podcast, we welcome Kimberly Good, whose remarkable journey from childhood trauma to long-term recovery is a profound testament to the power of healing. Kimberly opens up about growing up in a family marked by addiction, navigating the foster care system, and facing the emotional toll of instability and separation at an early age. Through faith, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth, Kimberly has built a life filled with purpose, hope, and deep connection.
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Facing Generational Trauma and Family Addiction
Kimberly’s early years were shaped by the chaos of addiction and the heartache of separation from her family. Entering foster care brought its own set of challenges—feelings of abandonment, loss, and a deep longing for belonging that stayed with her into adulthood. Kimberly shares candidly about how these early experiences left emotional scars and shaped her struggles with identity and self-worth.
Turning Points and the Start of Healing
A critical shift occurred when Kimberly met mentors who saw her potential and believed in her when she couldn't believe in herself. Their guidance planted seeds of hope, opening the door for Kimberly to explore recovery, accountability, and faith. She shares how surrendering old patterns and embracing new ways of living allowed her to begin healing the wounds of her past.
Building a Foundation of Faith and Service
Today, Kimberly thrives in long-term recovery, grounded in her faith, service to others, and a strong recovery community. She speaks about the importance of staying connected, giving back, and practicing gratitude daily. Kimberly’s story illustrates that healing is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey built on small acts of courage and consistency. "Healing begins when you believe you are worth fighting for."
Words of Hope for Others
Kimberly reminds listeners that no matter how painful the past may be, recovery is possible. Healing begins with believing you are worth fighting for, and through community, faith, and perseverance, new beginnings are within reach for anyone willing to take the first step.
Kimberly’s journey from foster care to recovery shines a light on the strength of the human spirit. Her openness, courage, and heartfelt reflections offer a beacon of hope for those navigating their own recovery journey. Through faith, connection, and service, Kimberly proves that it’s never too late to heal, rebuild, and live a life full of love and purpose.
#RealRecoveryPodcast #FamilyAddiction #FosterCareSurvivor #RecoveryJourney #HopeAndHealing #BreakingTheCycle #TraumaRecovery #ResilienceAndHope @RealRecoveryPodcast
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