In this special extra episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, Peter and Julie take us to the Oregon Recovers "We Do Recover" Awards Luncheon, a vibrant celebration of resilience, leadership, and hope in the recovery community. This event marks a pivotal transition as Mike Marshall, the outgoing Executive Director, passes the torch to Bo Brinson, who brings fresh energy and vision to Oregon Recovers.

​Honoring Leadership and Community
Mike Marshall, the founding Executive Director of Oregon Recovers, reflects on his legacy, sharing powerful stories of advocacy and progress. "This organization was built to elevate unheard voices in the fight against addiction," he shares.

Bo Brinson, the newly appointed Executive Director, outlines his bold vision for a collaborative approach to recovery. "Recovery requires unity and breaking down silos. Together, we can transform Oregon into a recovery haven," says Bo.

Special Honors and Key Figures
The event celebrated standout contributors to Oregon's recovery community:

• Katie Johnson received the Tawana Sanchez Recovery Leadership Award for her exceptional dedication to leadership and advocacy in the recovery space.
• Nicole Clark was honored with the Eric Martin Community Engagement Award, recognizing her outstanding commitment to fostering community connections in recovery.
• Alex Green, a Portland native and former Green Bay Packers running back, was presented with an Oregon Recovers Award, acknowledging his inspiring recovery journey and his work to uplift others.

#RealRecoveryPodcast #OregonRecovers #AddictionRecovery #HopeAndHealing #RecoveryCommunity
@OregonRecovers, @PoisonWaters, @ForaHealth, @GTDGoTheDistance

​In this special Real Recovery Podcast Extra, Peter and Julie take you on a journey through the Oregon Recovers Walk in downtown Portland. This unique episode captures live conversations with inspiring voices from Oregon’s recovery community, showcasing the event’s energy and the power of unity in recovery. Listen in as they meet community advocates, recovery leaders, and dedicated individuals making a difference.

​Background: Oregon Recovers Walk
The Oregon Recovers Walk brings together advocates and allies in the recovery movement, each representing resilience and hope. Set in the vibrant Pioneer Courthouse Square, this annual event is not only a gathering but a celebration of the strength found in community and connection. For Peter and Julie, being part of this event was a heartfelt reminder of the positive changes possible when people unite.

Struggles and Triumphs: Voices from the Field
Throughout the episode, Peter and Julie engage with several attendees and notable figures in the recovery field. Key highlights include:

1. [00:02:29] Terry Leckron-Myers, Senior Director at the Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon
   Terry shares her journey in recovery and her role in helping others through MHAO’s extensive peer-delivered programs. Her words underscore the power of lived experience and the unique support that peers can provide.
2. [00:10:17] Dan, Project Director for the Recovery Network of Oregon
   Dan discusses the innovative Recovery Network app, designed to simplify access to vital recovery resources statewide. With almost 10,000 downloads, this app is already making waves by connecting people to services and support when they need it most. You can download the app here:
   • Apple App Store
   • Google Play Store
3. [00:15:00] Eric Allen, Recovery Podcaster
   Eric shares his commitment to spreading positivity through his daily podcast, “Affirmations for Recovery.” His conversation with Peter and Julie highlights the importance of accessible recovery resources and inspiring messages.
4. [00:16:31] Cheyenne Salazar from Cielo Treatment Center
   Cheyenne, who recently celebrated four years of continuous sobriety, shares her personal journey and her current role in recovery services. Her story exemplifies the dedication and hope found within Portland’s recovery community.

The Oregon Recovers Walk showcases the strength that comes from unity, compassion, and resilience. Through conversations with people at the forefront of recovery, Peter and Julie provide listeners with inspiring stories that highlight how lives can be transformed through recovery. This episode is a powerful reminder that together, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

#RealRecoveryPodcast, #OregonRecovers, #RecoveryJourney, #CommunitySupport, #HopeAndHealing

In this episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, co-hosts Peter and Julie sit down with Mike Marshall, the Executive Director of Oregon Recovers, for an eye-opening discussion on the addiction crisis in Oregon. Mike shares his personal recovery journey, as well as the incredible work being done to improve access to treatment, advocate for policy change, and organize the recovery community. Mike’s story is both inspiring and a powerful call to action for everyone impacted by addiction.

​Mike’s Journey and the Founding of Oregon Recovers:
Mike Marshall has dedicated his life to recovery advocacy after overcoming his own struggles with addiction. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of community support. Mike founded Oregon Recovers in 2017 with the goal of addressing Oregon’s addiction crisis by organizing the recovery community and pushing for necessary policy changes. As Mike says, "The recovery community isn't just about those of us in recovery—it's about our friends, families, and the people who take care of us." —Mike Marshall

​Addressing the Addiction Crisis in Oregon:
Oregon faces one of the highest addiction rates in the country, yet ranks last in access to treatment. Mike explains how Oregon Recovers is tackling this crisis head-on through advocacy and organizing efforts. By engaging with policymakers, hosting events like the Walk for Recovery, and raising awareness, Oregon Recovers is empowering the recovery community to create real change.

The Role of Recovery Housing:
One of the key elements in Oregon Recovers' mission is the expansion of recovery housing. Mike explains that while traditional treatment options are important, recovery housing offers individuals a safe and supportive environment as they transition back into everyday life. By connecting recovery housing with outpatient programs like those offered through the Recovery Network of Oregon, the organization is helping more people maintain long-term sobriety.

​Preventing Addiction and Changing the Culture:
Mike emphasizes the importance of prevention and cultural change in combating addiction. He speaks passionately about the need to challenge the pervasive role of alcohol and drugs in our society, particularly in media and advertising. 

Portland Walk for Recovery 2024:
Join Oregon Recovers at the upcoming Portland Walk for Recovery 2024 on Saturday, September 28th, 2024 from 10:00am - 2:00pm at Pioneer Courthouse Square - Portland, OR. This event brings together individuals in recovery, their families, friends, and advocates to walk in support of recovery. It’s a powerful demonstration of solidarity and an opportunity to celebrate the strength of the recovery community. Register for the walk at the official Walk for Recovery page.

​Conclusion:
This episode with Mike Marshall is a powerful reminder that recovery is not just an individual journey—it’s a collective responsibility. By organizing the recovery community, advocating for policy changes, and building stronger support systems, Oregon Recovers is making a real difference in the fight against addiction. As Mike says, "Recovery is about more than just staying sober—it's about creating a life worth living for everyone impacted by addiction." —Mike Marshall

On the next Real Recovery Podcast, we’re excited to bring you Dr. David Bohrer! Dr. Bohrer, a chiropractor with a remarkable journey through addiction and recovery, opens up about his struggles, the turning points in his life, and how he found the strength to rebuild from the ground up. His candid story offers hope, resilience, and inspiration for anyone on their own recovery journey. Don’t miss this powerful and uplifting episode! 

#RealRecoveryPodcast, #OregonRecovers, #AddictionRecovery, #WalkForRecovery, #RecoveryHousing, #MikeMarshall, #CommunitySupport, #MentalHealth, #AddictionCrisis, #SoberLiving, #RecoveryJourney

We’re excited to announce that the Real Recovery Podcast will be participating in the Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery event on Saturday, September 28th, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland, OR. Peter and Julie will be there with microphones ready for podcast shout-outs, offering a unique opportunity for you to share your message of hope, support, and recovery.

​What is the Walk for Recovery?
The Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery is a powerful community event that brings together individuals and families impacted by addiction. The goal is to walk together towards a brighter future, raising awareness about the importance of recovery, and providing support to those still in the process. The event celebrates the recovery journey while encouraging broader conversations about the resources available for those struggling with addiction.

Why You Should Join Us:
This isn’t just another walk! It’s a chance for you to connect with others, share your story, and be a part of something bigger. Peter and Julie will be set up with microphones, and we want YOU to be featured on an upcoming episode of the Real Recovery Podcast! Whether you’re walking for yourself, a loved one, or simply to show support for the recovery community, we’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections on the day at the Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery.

This event marks an incredible opportunity to support the recovery community and connect with those who have been impacted by addiction. Whether you’re new to the Real Recovery Podcast or a longtime listener, we’d love to see you at the Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery event! Together, we’ll walk towards hope, healing, and a brighter future.

Don’t forget to stop by the Real Recovery Podcast booth at the event, say hi to Peter and Julie, and share your story on the podcast. Let’s celebrate recovery and help spread a message of hope. We can’t wait to meet you at the Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery!

In Episode 29 of the Real Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Bo Brinsen, the Development Director at Oregon Recovers. Bo's story is one of resilience, transformation, and dedication to helping others find their path to recovery. From his early days in Compton, California, to his pivotal role in Oregon’s recovery community, Bo’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of community support in overcoming addiction.

​Bo Brinsen's Background
Bo grew up in the challenging environment of Compton, where the life expectancy for someone in his circumstances was alarmingly low. Surrounded by violence and crime, Bo found himself entangled in the gang lifestyle at a young age. His struggles with addiction began in his teenage years, with alcohol and marijuana leading him down a path of substance abuse that eventually escalated to harder drugs. Despite the odds stacked against him, Bo’s story didn’t end there.

​Making an Impact at Oregon Recovers
Today, Bo is the Development Director at Oregon Recovers, where he is making a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals across the state. Oregon Recovers is the only organization in Oregon that focuses directly on policy and advocacy for recovery. Bo’s work involves not only spearheading initiatives that support those in recovery but also advocating for systemic changes that will benefit the entire recovery community.

One of the standout projects under Bo’s leadership is the Recovery Network of Oregon (RNO) app, a tool that provides real-time information on available recovery resources throughout the state. This innovative app is helping bridge the gap between those in need and the services that can support their recovery.

​Conclusion
Bo Brinsen’s journey from the streets of Compton to leading Oregon Recovers is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible for everyone, regardless of their background. His story highlights the importance of community, the necessity of policy advocacy, and the impact that one person can have when they commit to helping others. In this episode, Bo’s candid discussion of his personal struggles and triumphs will inspire anyone facing similar challenges and remind us all that with support and determination, we can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.

Tune in to Episode 29 of the Real Recovery Podcast and hear Bo Brinsen’s incredible story of recovery and leadership. His journey will inspire you to believe in the power of change and the importance of community in the recovery process. Don’t miss it--listen to the episode now.

Coming up on the next episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we welcome Mike Marshall, the driving force behind Oregon Recovers. In this powerful discussion, Mike shares his personal journey through addiction, recovery, and the inspiring work he's doing to transform Oregon's approach to addiction treatment. From his experiences in community organizing to advocating for policy change, Mike provides deep insights into the challenges facing the recovery community and the steps being taken to create lasting change. This episode highlights the importance of advocacy, community, and leadership in addressing the addiction crisis. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation filled with hope, determination, and a call to action for all those affected by addiction. Tune in and be inspired by Mike's unwavering commitment to making Oregon a place where recovery is possible for everyone.

#RealRecoveryPodcast #OregonRecovers #AddictionRecovery #CommunitySupport #RecoveryJourney