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    RRP Episode 36: From Dope Sick to Recovery Capital – Adrian Burris on Reclaiming Life with 4D Recovery

    Adrian Burris opens up about his journey from addiction to recovery, the impact of peer support, and the vital role of building recovery capital at 4D Recovery.

    overcoming dope sick, building recovery capital, Adrian Burris recovery journey, peer services in addiction recovery, 4D Recovery success stories
    In this episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, Peter and Julie sit down with Adrian Burris from 4D Recovery, a Portland-based organization focused on empowering young people in recovery. Adrian’s story is a raw and inspiring account of battling addiction, overcoming the challenges of being "dope sick," and ultimately finding a new purpose through recovery capital and peer services. His journey from addiction to a thriving life in recovery offers hope to anyone struggling or supporting a loved one through sobriety.
    ​Adrian’s Background:
    Adrian grew up in Portland, Oregon, before briefly moving to Atlanta as a teenager. He recalls how the pressures of adolescence, combined with exposure to drugs like marijuana and pills, eventually led him down a dangerous path. By the time he was 21, Adrian had tried heroin for the first time—a moment that changed everything. Despite initially disliking the drug, he quickly found himself addicted and spiraling into a life of homelessness, stealing, and trying to maintain his habit.
    Links to Websites Discussed:
    ​"I had to remind myself to just stay in today, no matter how scary it was. The moment I stopped future-tripping and focused on the present, that’s when things started to change."
    — Adrian Burris
    His story is a stark reminder of how addiction can take hold, even when you don’t see it coming.
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    The Battle with Addiction:
    One of the most striking parts of Adrian’s story is his description of being "dope sick"—the intense withdrawal symptoms that kept him tethered to heroin. He speaks candidly about how terrifying it was to feel his body shutting down without the drug and the lengths he went to avoid that pain.
    Like many, Adrian found himself making decisions he would never have imagined, including stealing from loved ones and enduring dangerous situations, like facing down a gun during a robbery attempt. His addiction had taken control, and he felt powerless.
    Finding Recovery at 4D Recovery:
    Adrian’s turning point came when he was arrested and forced to confront the reality of his situation. During a five-month stint in jail, Adrian had time to reflect and commit to change. Upon his release, he found his way to 4D Recovery, where he connected with peer mentor Cody.
    4D Recovery became Adrian’s lifeline, providing him with the support he needed to stay sober. The organization introduced him to the concept of recovery capital—the personal, social, and community resources that help individuals in recovery succeed. Through 4D Recovery’s peer services, Adrian was able to build his recovery capital, gain confidence, and find a sense of belonging.
    The Power of Peer Support and Recovery Capital:
    Adrian’s story highlights the crucial role of peer services in recovery. At 4D Recovery, he found a community of people who understood his struggles and were committed to helping him succeed. The support he received allowed him to rebuild his life and give back by helping others on their recovery journeys.
    By focusing on recovery capital, Adrian was able to create a solid foundation for his sobriety. He now works at 4D Recovery, helping other young people navigate the challenges of addiction and recovery.
    Conclusion:
    Adrian Burris’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, no matter how dark things may seem. His journey from addiction to building recovery capital at 4D Recovery shows that with the right support, people can turn their lives around and create a brighter future.
    For anyone struggling with addiction, Adrian’s story offers hope, inspiration, and a clear message: there’s always a way forward.
    Listen to the full episode of Adrian Burris’s inspiring journey on the Real Recovery Podcast, and learn more about the incredible work being done at 4D Recovery to support young people in recovery.
    #RealRecoveryPodcast #RecoveryJourney #PeerServices #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryCapital #DopeSick #SoberLiving #4DRecovery #SobrietyJourney ​@4DRecovery
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    RRP Extra 35.1: Live from the 1st Annual GTD - Go The Distance 5K Run/Walk

    Celebrating Community and Recovery at the GTD 5K Run/Walk Annual Event

    GTD 5K Run, recovery community event, GTD Go the Distance organization, Real Recovery Podcast coverage, Volunteers of America recovery
    ​In this special Real Recovery Podcast episode, Peter and Julie attend the inspiring Go the Distance (GTD) 5K Run/Walk, an event focused on uniting the recovery community through movement and mutual support. This annual event, founded by Izzy Alvarado and supported by partners like Volunteers of America and Lifeline Connections, featured moving stories from individuals on the path of recovery. Each participant brings their story of resilience, and the event highlights how community plays an essential role in helping individuals overcome obstacles and achieve recovery goals.
    ​Guest Background and Highlights:
    The GTD 5K Run/Walk held at Fern Hill Park brought together various voices from the recovery community. Event participants included Jay from VOA, who recently celebrated 90 days of sobriety, and Isaac, a young runner inspired by his family’s connection to recovery. Also attending the event, Cielo Treatment Center founder Solara Salazar and GTD board president Aaron, who explained GTD’s mission to promote recovery through exercise and healthy living. Each guest contributed a unique perspective on the role of movement in recovery.
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    Struggles, Turning Points, and Impactful Moments: 
    ​Many event attendees, such as Becky from GTD and Quintin, shared the struggles they faced and how GTD’s running programs offered them structure and support. Quintin expressed how the GTD community gave him a sense of belonging, essential for staying on his recovery journey. Additionally, Greg from GTD, a long-time supporter and run leader, emphasized GTD’s commitment to providing inclusive, empowering environments for people in recovery. Hearing from the Volunteers of America (VOA) team, including Tess and Shannon from Lifeline Connections, reinforced GTD’s role in enhancing community resources for recovery.
    The GTD 5K Run/Walk embodies the spirit of recovery, demonstrating that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to achieving sobriety. Through the voices of Solara, Aaron, Greg, and many others, we see that recovery is not just about overcoming challenges but about building a community that values and supports each person’s journey. With its growing reach, GTD and events like this continue to make a lasting impact. Thank you to everyone who joined the celebration!
    @GTDGoTheDistance, @CieloTreatment, @VolunteersofAmerica, @LifelineConnections, @CoreFitnessPDX, @RealRecoveryPodcast
    #GTD5KRun #RecoveryCommunity #RealRecoveryPodcast #GTD #FernHillPark #VOA #CieloTreatment #LifelineConnections #SobrietyJourney #Podcast
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    RRP Episode 35: Greg Haworth’s Inspiring Journey—From Addiction to Cycling and Community Support

    How cycling and community became the foundation for Greg Haworth’s sobriety.

    In Episode 35 of the Real Recovery Podcast, Greg Haworth takes us through his inspiring journey of recovery, demonstrating the power of resilience and the importance of embracing community. Greg shares how cycling became more than just a hobby; it became a lifeline during his battle with addiction, offering both physical and mental relief. His story emphasizes how personal passions and supportive relationships can make all the difference in long-term sobriety.
    Greg's Journey: From Struggles to Recovery
    Greg faced numerous challenges during his struggle with addiction. He opens up about how the daily routine of drinking took a toll on his health and personal life. But one of the pivotal turning points in his recovery was rediscovering his love for cycling, which not only helped him physically but also provided the mental clarity he desperately needed.
    ​In addition to cycling, Greg found a supportive community that played a significant role in his recovery. He highlights how attending the Lunch Bunch meetings helped him connect with others who understood his journey, giving him the strength to continue moving forward. As Greg puts it:
    "I came to realize that I wasn’t alone, that recovery is possible when you embrace support and show up for yourself and others." 

    ​—Greg Haworth
    Resources Mentioned:
    ​The Power of Community and Passion in Recovery
    Greg’s story demonstrates how recovery is about more than just abstaining from substances. It’s about finding the right balance of personal passions, community support, and inner strength. His experience with the Lunch Bunch meetings created a sense of belonging, helping him stay focused on his sobriety.
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    Today, Greg continues to inspire others by sharing his journey and encouraging them to find their own path to recovery. His message is clear: with the right mindset and support, anyone can overcome addiction and rebuild their life.
    ​Tune in to listen to Greg’s powerful journey on Episode 35 of the Real Recovery Podcast. Let his story inspire you on your own path to healing and growth. Listen now.
    #RecoveryJourney #CyclingAndSobriety #RealRecoveryPodcast #GregHaworth #CommunitySupportRecovery
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    RRP Extra 34.1: Live from the Recover Out Loud Event

    A Celebration of Recovery, Community, and Resilience

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    In this special Real Recovery Podcast Extra episode, Peter and Julie take listeners inside the Recover Out Loud event, where they connected with recovery advocates, heard inspiring personal stories, and captured the heart of a vibrant recovery community. Set against the backdrop of live performances and interviews with recovery leaders, this episode celebrates the transformative power of recovery and highlights the incredible work being done to support individuals on their recovery journey.
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    A Night to Remember at Recover Out Loud
    Peter and Julie kicked off the episode by welcoming listeners to their first-ever live event recording. Recover Out Loud was a gathering of individuals, organizations, and supporters of recovery, and the Real Recovery Podcast team was there to cover it all—from the vibrant vendor tables to the incredible performances.
    One of the highlights was the live performance by Skyler Ray, who energized the crowd with two of Peter and Julie’s favorite tracks, "Walk on Water" and "Back to the Old Me." Skyler’s passion and recovery journey shone through, providing attendees with a powerful reminder that recovery is not just possible—it’s something to be celebrated.
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    True Colors and 4D Recovery: Leading the Way
    The event allowed Peter and Julie to reconnect with Amanda from True Colors Recovery, who shared insights into their youth recovery initiatives. Amanda’s dedication to creating safe spaces for young people battling addiction was clear, and her passion for helping others was evident throughout their conversation.
    ​Listeners also hear from the team at 4D Recovery, an organization renowned for its peer support programs and commitment to empowering young adults in recovery. Through mentorship and community outreach, 4D continues to play a pivotal role in the recovery movement.
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    ​Real Stories, Real Recovery
    One of the most moving parts of the event was the opportunity to hear personal recovery stories from attendees. Individuals like Jared from Painted Horse Recovery and many others shared their sober dates and the profound impact that recovery has had on their lives. For many, this event was not only a celebration but also a chance to reflect on their journey and share it with others.
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    The Energy of Live Performances
    The live performances throughout the night set the tone for an energetic, uplifting experience. From Skyler Ray’s set to other talented local artists like Madison Shanley, the music united the crowd in a shared purpose. Each performance underscored the idea that recovery is a community effort, full of passion and strength. Be sure to check out Madison’s episode on our podcast here.
    Additionally, listeners can enjoy our interview with Futuristic, who also made an appearance at the event. His episode can be found here, where he discusses his journey and passion for helping others through his music.
    People We've Interviewed
    We’ve had the privilege of interviewing incredible individuals whose stories of recovery continue to inspire our audience. Here are some of the people we’ve interviewed, along with links to their episodes:
    Recover Out Loud event podcast, Skyler Ray live recovery music, 4D Recovery peer support podcast, True Colors Recovery interview, addiction recovery stories podcast
    The Recover Out Loud event was a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and the importance of celebrating recovery openly. Peter and Julie’s first live event recording captured the heart and soul of what Real Recovery Podcast stands for: providing a platform for real stories of recovery, resilience, and hope. Events like this remind us all of the power we hold when we come together.
    If you missed the event, you can catch the full episode and relive the inspiring moments by listening now.
    ​#RecoverOutLoud, #RealRecoveryPodcast, #TrueColorsRecovery, #4DRecovery, #SoberLife, #AddictionRecovery, #WeDoRecover
    @TrueColorsRecovery, @4DRecovery, @SkylerRay, @MadisonShanley, @OnlyFuturistic
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    RRP Episode 34: No Wrong Door—John Morgan’s Journey from Crime to Recovery

    Embracing Second Chances and the "No Wrong Door" Philosophy in Addiction Recovery

    In episode 34 of the Real Recovery Podcast, Peter and Julie interview John Morgan, founder of Another Chance Recovery. His story is one of transformation from a life of crime and addiction to becoming a leader in the recovery community. Through his "No Wrong Door" philosophy, John ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has a safe place to begin their recovery journey.
    ​John's Background:
    John’s life in Portland, Oregon, began with exposure to criminal behavior and addiction at a young age. By six years old, he had already encountered the justice system, and his struggles continued through adolescence and adulthood. Despite numerous arrests and a challenging path, John found the strength to turn his life around, becoming the founder of Another Chance Recovery, where he now helps others find their way to sobriety.
    “I was responsible. I couldn’t blame anybody but myself, and that was the gift of accountability.” 
    ​— John Morgan
    Struggles and Turning Points:
    John’s life was marked by moments of despair and near defeat. He speaks of his many stints in prison, but it was during one such sentence that he experienced a profound realization: “I was responsible. I couldn’t blame anybody but myself, and that was the gift of accountability.” This marked the beginning of his transformation and commitment to recovery.
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    ​Building Another Chance Recovery:
    John’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: "No Wrong Door." Another Chance Recovery operates under this belief, ensuring that no one is turned away, no matter their history or struggles. John emphasizes, “As long as you’re breathing and have the ability to show up for yourself, you deserve another chance.” His center offers a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can find the support they need to rebuild their lives.
    John Morgan’s journey from a life of crime to founding Another Chance Recovery is a testament to the power of second chances. His "No Wrong Door" philosophy reflects his unwavering belief that everyone, regardless of their past, can achieve recovery. This episode is a powerful reminder that transformation is always possible.
    ​Listen to John Morgan’s inspiring journey on episode 34 of the Real Recovery Podcast. Click here to listen.
    ​#NoWrongDoor #RecoveryJourney #AddictionRecovery #AnotherChance #SecondChances #RealRecoveryPodcast #Transformation
    @Another Chance Drug and Alcohol Rehab Center of Portland
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    Honoring Indigenous Peoples' Day: Addiction Affects All, But Recovery Is Unique to Every Individual

    Addiction is an indiscriminate force. It doesn’t care about your background, your culture, or your personal struggles—it affects people from all walks of life. But in recovery, it's crucial to acknowledge and respect a person's disposition, culture, and beliefs. Recognizing these elements helps create an environment where healing is not only possible but deeply personal and meaningful.
    Today, as we celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day, it's especially important to highlight the significance of culturally specific recovery practices within Indigenous communities. We were honored to speak with Jerrod Murray, the founder and Executive Director of Painted Horse Recovery, who helps those from Native American backgrounds in their recovery journeys. Painted Horse Recovery provides a space where individuals can embrace their heritage while healing from addiction. You can listen to Jerrod’s inspiring story and read the blog post on our podcast episode here.
    ​Another incredible guest we've had the pleasure of interviewing is Melissa Hereford from 4D Recovery in Hillsboro. As a Native American herself, Melissa found that culturally informed recovery practices were essential to her healing process. She works to support others, helping them find the resources and strength they need, particularly those from Indigenous backgrounds. Her story is a powerful reminder of how deeply connected recovery and culture can be. You can listen to Melissa’s episode and read the blog post here.
    In addition to these amazing individuals, we’d also like to shine a light on Wellbriety meetings, which are specifically geared towards Indigenous culture. Wellbriety emphasizes sobriety and wellness while honoring Native American traditions and spiritual teachings. These meetings provide a safe, supportive space for individuals to reconnect with their heritage while embracing their recovery journey. You can find links to Wellbriety meetings and more information on our Resources Page.
    ​On this Indigenous Peoples' Day, we honor the stories and contributions of individuals like Jerrod and Melissa who are making a real difference in their communities. At the Real Recovery Podcast, we stand with them in recognizing that recovery is most effective when it’s inclusive and respectful of a person’s cultural identity.
    #IndigenousPeoplesDay, #AddictionRecovery, #CulturalHealing, #Wellbriety, #PaintedHorseRecovery, #4DRecovery, #NativeAmericanRecovery, #RealRecoveryPodcast, #RecoveryJourney, #CulturallySpecificRecovery