RRP Episode 28: From Soccer Star to Sobriety—Tarra McCarthy’s Journey of Overcoming Trauma and Embracing Authenticity

How Tarra McCarthy Turned Her Life Around After Struggling with Addiction and the Pressures of a Strict Upbringing

​In Episode 28 of the Real Recovery Podcast, we explore the powerful story of Tarra McCarthy, a woman who grew up in a Catholic family where alcoholism and strict values shaped her early life. Despite her success as a competitive soccer player, Tarra faced deep internal struggles that led her down a path of addiction. This episode highlights her journey from hiding behind her achievements to embracing authenticity and finding recovery.

​"True strength comes from embracing our vulnerabilities and turning our pain into purpose."
— Tarra McCarthy

Links to Websites Discussed:

• Real Recovery Podcast
• Listen to this Episode
• Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO)

​Tarra's Background and Struggles:
Tarra’s childhood was marked by the pressures of a strict Catholic upbringing, where feelings were often suppressed and appearances were everything. As she excelled in soccer, playing at a competitive level and joining Olympic development teams, she seemed to have it all together. However, beneath the surface, Tarra was battling deep insecurities and emotional pain. She turned to substance abuse to cope, which eventually led her into the depths of addiction.

​The Turning Point:
A significant change occurred in Tarra’s life when she discovered peer-delivered services, which played a crucial role in her recovery. In this episode, Tarra discusses how embracing her true self and becoming authentic in her healing process were key to her sobriety. Her story is a testament to the importance of vulnerability and the power of peer support in overcoming addiction.

Tarra’s Work at MHAAO:
Today, Tarra is not only living in recovery but also making a profound impact through her work at the Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO). At MHAAO, she raises awareness and funds to support those struggling with addiction and mental health challenges. Her work allows her to use her experiences to help others find their path to recovery, offering both hope and practical support.

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Conclusion:
Tarra McCarthy’s journey, as shared in Episode 28 of the Real Recovery Podcast, is a powerful reminder that success on the outside can often hide deep internal struggles. Her story of moving from hiding behind her soccer achievements to embracing authenticity and finding recovery offers valuable lessons for anyone facing similar challenges. Through her work at MHAAO, Tarra continues to inspire and support others on their recovery journey, proving that it’s possible to turn your life around and help others do the same.

Listen to the Full Episode:
Don’t miss out on this inspiring episode of the Real Recovery Podcast. Listen to Episode 28: Tarra McCarthy’s Journey now to hear her story of resilience, courage, and the power of authenticity in recovery.

Listen to the Episode

#RealRecoveryPodcast #RRPEpisode28 #AddictionRecovery #CatholicSchoolStruggles #SoccerAndSobriety #TarraMcCarthy #RecoveryJourney #PeerSupport #ChildhoodTrauma #MHAAO

Coming up Next...

​Join us for RRP 29, featuring Bo Brinsen, the Development Director at Oregon Recovers. Bo takes us on an inspiring journey from the streets of Compton to leading impactful recovery initiatives across Oregon. Discover how Bo overcame his struggles with addiction and how he's now spearheading innovative programs that are making a difference. This episode dives deep into the importance of community support, the challenges of recovery, and the incredible work being done at Oregon Recovers. Don’t miss this powerful conversation! 

Show Notes:

Title: RRP 28: Tarra McCarthy’s Journey—From Soccer Star to Sobriety, Overcoming Trauma, and Finding Authenticity
Presenters: Peter B., Julie L., Tarra McCarthy
Length: 1 hour 15 minutes
Links to Websites:

• Real Recovery Podcast
• Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO)

Key Points:

• [00:02:45] Introduction to Tarra McCarthy's story: Growing up in a Catholic family with alcoholism and a strict upbringing.
• [00:10:30] The impact of Catholic schooling and childhood trauma on her identity and mental health.
• [00:20:15] Soccer as an escape: Tarra’s achievements as a soccer player, from playing at a competitive level to joining Olympic development teams.
• [00:35:40] The struggle beneath the surface: How hiding emotions behind success in soccer fueled substance abuse.
• [00:50:20] Turning point: Tarra’s discovery of peer support services and recovery from addiction.
• [01:05:00] The power of authenticity in healing and how Tarra now helps others through her work at MHAAO.

Summary:
In Episode 28 of the Real Recovery Podcast, Tarra McCarthy shares her compelling journey of growing up in a Catholic family impacted by alcoholism, navigating the pressures of a strict upbringing, and finding her identity in soccer. Despite excelling as a competitive soccer player, she struggled internally, hiding her pain and turning to substance abuse. Tarra speaks openly about her recovery journey, the turning point that led her to seek help, and the transformative role of peer-delivered services in her life. Today, she works at the Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO), where she raises awareness and funds to support those with addiction and mental health challenges. Tarra emphasizes the importance of authenticity in healing and continues to inspire others through her work in recovery.
Conclusion:
Tarra McCarthy’s story is a powerful reminder that even those who seem successful on the outside may be facing deep struggles within. Her journey from hiding emotions to embracing authenticity is filled with lessons for anyone on the path to recovery. Now working at MHAAO, Tarra uses her lived experiences to help others navigate addiction and mental health challenges. Episode 28 is an inspiring listen for those seeking hope, healing, and the courage to be true to themselves.
Hashtags: #RealRecoveryPodcast #RRPEpisode28 #AddictionRecovery #CatholicSchoolStruggles #SoccerAndSobriety #TarraMcCarthy #RecoveryJourney #PeerSupport #ChildhoodTrauma #MHAAO