RRP 69 – Founding Voices EP 03- Izzy’s Journey

How one man’s resilience and service sparked a movement in recovery.

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Episode sixty-nine of the Real Recovery Podcast marks the third installment in our Founding Voices series, spotlighting Izzy—a friend, mentor, and inspiration whose journey from addiction and homelessness to leadership and service has touched countless lives. First sharing his story in episode five, Izzy’s path is a testament to the power of second chances, the strength of community, and the impact of giving back. As the founder and executive director of Go the Distance (GTD), Izzy’s vision and passion not only inspired the creation of this podcast, but continue to uplift and connect the recovery community across Portland and beyond.

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​Growing up in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Izzy always felt a bit different—drawn to music, fashion, and the arts, and often struggling to fit in. After high school, he excelled academically and socially but soon found himself swept up in the party culture of college, leading to years of substance use and cycles of self-doubt. Seeking a fresh start, Izzy moved to Portland, Oregon, where he worked in fine dining, but addiction soon took hold, leading to devastating relapses, job loss, and eventually homelessness.

​Links

• Listen to this episode
• Read the blog post
• Go the Distance nonprofit
• Real Recovery Podcast website

“If you’re listening, remember that the guy who was homeless walking up and down 82nd street might be the next executive director of Go the Distance. That was me. And here I am, changing lives day to day.”
— Izzy

Izzy’s turning point came through the support of friends, the structure of recovery meetings, and the love of his dog, Anna. With each setback, he found the courage to return—rebuilding his life, repairing relationships, and discovering a new sense of purpose in service. In 2019, Izzy founded Go the Distance (GTD), a nonprofit that empowers individuals in recovery through running, mentorship, and community. The organization has grown rapidly, now offering multiple weekly runs, employment opportunities for people in recovery, and a wellness program supporting both physical and mental health.

​Izzy’s story is also deeply intertwined with the Real Recovery Podcast. His passion for service and his example of “taking a chance on the underdog” helped inspire the podcast’s creation. Izzy remains a valued mentor and friend to the show, collaborating on events and supporting the broader recovery community.

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​Izzy’s journey reminds us that recovery is not just about overcoming addiction, but about finding purpose, building community, and lifting others along the way. His story is proof that hope, resilience, and service can transform lives—and that anyone, given a second chance, can go the distance.

​Listen to Izzy’s full story on RRP Episode 69 and explore more inspiring journeys at Real Recovery Podcast. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates and join our community of hope and healing.

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