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.

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.

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.

​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.

​In episode 27 of the Real Recovery Podcast, we had the privilege of sitting down with Jerrod Murray, the Executive Director of Painted Horse Recovery. Jerrod’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of cultural connection. His journey from addiction and incarceration to becoming a leader in the recovery community is nothing short of inspiring.

​In our latest episode, we celebrate six months of podcasting with an extraordinary story of transformation and resilience. We’re honored to feature Elton Frice, the Director of Development at 4D Recovery, who shares her deeply personal journey from the depths of addiction to becoming a beacon of hope for others.

​In this heart-wrenching episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Jesse D., a man whose journey through addiction, loss, and recovery is nothing short of inspiring. Jesse opens up about his struggles with alcoholism, which began at the tender age of 12, and the profound impact it had on his life and relationships.

As we dive deep into his story, Jesse shares the pivotal moments that shaped his path to sobriety. From the comforting embrace of the Menucha Retreat Center, where he found solace and support, to the unwavering strength of his family during his darkest days, Jesse’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of community and connection in recovery.

In the latest episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we are honored to feature Robert Sanders, the grandson of Barbara Roberts, former governor of Oregon. Robert's journey through addiction and recovery is not just a story of personal resilience but also a testament to the enduring impact of family legacy and community support.

​Robert Sanders' Early Memories and Family Legacy
Robert Sanders grew up with the unique experience of being the grandson of a prominent political figure. His earliest memories include walking through the Lloyd Center with his grandmother, Barbara Roberts, and witnessing her dedication to public service. "We have to make time for the people that we serve," his grandmother would often say, a lesson that Robert has carried with him throughout his life.

​Challenges and Triumphs in Addiction and Recovery
Despite the supportive environment provided by his grandmother, Robert's early life was marked by the struggle of having a mother who dealt with alcohol abuse. This duality of a structured upbringing contrasted with personal challenges set the stage for his own battle with addiction. By the time he was in high school, Robert had already begun experimenting with substances, leading to a tumultuous journey that would eventually see him serving in the Navy and facing severe addiction issues.

Robert’s turning point came when he realized he could no longer continue on the destructive path he was on. His decision to seek help and enter recovery was a pivotal moment in his life. As he reflects,

The Role of Community and Peer Support
Today, Robert Sanders is an active participant in 4D Recovery, where he supervises adolescent services, providing guidance and support to young people facing similar struggles. His work involves creating safe spaces for recovery and emphasizing the importance of community involvement. ​

Heartwarming Moments and Impactful Conversations
Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to heartwarming anecdotes and powerful insights into the recovery journey. Robert's candid reflections on his struggles and triumphs are both inspiring and engaging, offering hope to those who may be facing similar challenges. His dedication to his family, particularly his determination to be present for his daughter and his loyalty to his wife, underscores the profound impact that recovery can have on personal relationships.

Join us in celebrating Robert Sanders' incredible journey and the positive changes he is making in the recovery community. His story is a powerful reminder that with the right support and determination, anyone can overcome their struggles and find a path to a better future.

​Don’t miss this episode filled with hope, inspiration, and invaluable insights. Tune in now to the Real Recovery Podcast to hear Robert Sanders' story firsthand and discover the power of recovery and community support.

​Join us for an inspiring new episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, where we sit down with Jesse D., a grateful recovering alcoholic. In Episode 25, Jesse opens up about his tumultuous journey through addiction, the struggles he faced with relapse, and the pivotal moments that led him to a life of sobriety. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of recovery. Tune in to hear how Jesse navigated his path to healing, the lessons he's learned along the way, and the importance of community support in maintaining sobriety. Don't miss this heartfelt and motivating episode that promises to resonate with anyone touched by addiction. Listen now at Real Recovery Podcast.