Need immediate help? Call the Oregon Recovery Crisis Line: (503) 223-8569  •  24/7  •  Click Here to view Recovery Resources

Tags

  • Published on

    RRP 019: Tony Vezina and the Transformative Power of 4D Recovery

    ​Welcome to another heartwarming and inspiring episode of the Real Recovery Podcast. In episode 19, we are honored to have Tony Vezina from 4D Recovery as our guest. Tony’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community support, and the transformative potential of recovery.
    Tony Vezina recovery journey, Real Recovery Podcast episode 19, 4D Recovery transformation stories, overcoming addiction with peer support, inspiring stories of sobriety and resilience
    ​A Journey of Strength and Hope
    Tony Vezina’s story is nothing short of remarkable. From his early struggles with addiction to his triumphant rise as a leader in the recovery community, Tony’s path is one of courage and determination. Throughout the episode, he shares candid insights into his experiences, shedding light on the challenges he faced and the pivotal moments that led to his recovery.
    The Impact of 4D Recovery
    4D Recovery, under Tony’s guidance, has become a beacon of hope for many. The organization focuses on providing peer support and creating a safe space for individuals in recovery. Tony’s vision for 4D Recovery is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a chance to rebuild their lives and find their true potential. His work has touched countless lives, offering a lifeline to those in need.
    ​A Quote to Remember
    One of the most poignant moments in the episode is when Tony shares a powerful insight:
    "There was a time in my life where I could not see my life without drugs. And now I cannot see myself using drugs."
    ​-- Tony Vezina
    This quote encapsulates the essence of Tony’s journey and the hope that recovery brings. It’s a reminder that no matter how dark the path may seem, there is always a way forward.
    Join Our Community: Follow, Review, and ​Support Us on Social Media
    Your engagement is what fuels our passion and keeps this podcast thriving. Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Subscribe & Follow us in your favorite Podcatcher or Podcast Player and please rate us and leave a review! Let’s continue this journey together, one episode at a time!
    Why This Episode Matters
    This episode is a must-listen for anyone touched by addiction, whether personally or through a loved one. Tony’s story is a source of inspiration, showing that recovery is possible and that community support can make all the difference. His candid discussion about the realities of addiction and the importance of resilience offers valuable insights for our listeners.
    Tune In
    Don’t miss this episode filled with resilience, hope, and the transformative power of recovery. Listen now on the Real Recovery Podcast and be inspired by Tony Vezina’s incredible journey.
    ​#RealRecoveryPodcast, #Episode19, #TonyVezina, #4DRecovery, #AddictionRecovery, #Inspiration, #Resilience, #CommunitySupport, #RecoveryJourney, #Sobriety, #Hope, #Transformation, #PeerSupport, #OvercomingAddiction

    Coming up next...

    ​Coming up next week on the Real Recovery Podcast, Amelia A. shares her journey from addiction to sobriety. She discusses her struggles with alcohol, the challenges of balancing motherhood, and the importance of finding a supportive community in her recovery. Don't miss this heartfelt and inspiring episode!
  • Published on

    RRP 018: Living in Recovery: Becca Stabach’s Inspiring Journey with Bipolar and Addiction

    A Story of Resilience: Navigating the Challenges of Bipolar Disorder and Addiction Recovery

    Becca Stabach inspiring recovery journey, overcoming addiction and mental illness, resilience and hope in recovery, community support in sobriety, Real Recovery Podcast Episode 18
      "I started going to meetings. My dad said he was super supportive. He was awesome. I was going to go to treatment... It was amazing because it was that first moment of surrender."
    --Becca Stabach
    ​In the latest episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we have the honor of featuring Becca Stabach, whose journey is a remarkable testament to the power of resilience and hope. Episode 18, "Living in Recovery: Becca Stabach’s Inspiring Journey with Bipolar and Addiction," dives deep into her personal battles and victories, offering an authentic and uplifting narrative of overcoming adversity.
    Early Struggles with Bipolar and Addiction
    Becca opens up about her early struggles with bipolar disorder, sharing how it significantly impacted her life and relationships. These challenges eventually led her down a path of addiction, adding another layer of complexity to her life. Her candid recounting of this period is both heartbreaking and enlightening, shedding light on the often interconnected nature of mental health issues and addiction.
    The Turning Point
    A pivotal moment in Becca’s life came when she decided to seek help for her bipolar disorder. This decision marked the beginning of her journey towards recovery and stability. She discusses the initial steps she took, including finding the right medical professionals and support systems that understood her unique challenges.
    Journey to Recovery
    Becca’s recovery journey was multifaceted, involving medication management, therapy, and building a robust support network. She emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health in conjunction with addiction recovery, highlighting that one cannot be effectively managed without considering the other. Her story provides valuable insights into the steps she took and the continuous effort required to maintain her mental health and sobriety.
    Join Our Community: Follow, Review, and
    ​Support Us on Social Media
    Your engagement is what fuels our passion and keeps this podcast thriving. Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Subscribe & Follow us in your favorite Podcatcher or Podcast Player and please rate us and leave a review! Let’s continue this journey together, one episode at a time!
    Living in Recovery
    Today, Becca is a shining example of what can be achieved with perseverance and the right support. She shares how she maintains her sobriety and mental health, offering practical advice and hope for others facing similar struggles. Her life today is a testament to the fact that, despite the ups and downs, living a fulfilling life in recovery is possible.
    Message of Hope
    Becca’s story is a beacon of hope, emphasizing that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey. It is filled with challenges, but with determination and support, triumph is always within reach. Her message is clear: no matter how tough the battle, a better life is possible.
    Tune in to episode 18 of the Real Recovery Podcast to hear Becca's full story and be inspired by her journey. Share this episode with anyone who might benefit from her powerful message.
    For more inspiring stories and expert advice on recovery, visit Real Recovery Podcast.
    Hashtags: #RealRecoveryPodcast #BeccaStabach #BipolarRecovery #InspiringJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionRecovery
    Listen to the full episode here: Real Recovery Podcast

    Coming up next...

    ​Coming up next week on the Real Recovery Podcast, we have Tony Vizina, a key figure in the recovery community. Known for his contributions to 4D Recovery, Tony's innovative approach and commitment to helping young people overcome addiction make him a respected leader and advocate. Join us as he shares intimate details about his story in recovery.
  • Published on

    RRP 017: From Chaos to Clarity: How Meditation and Community Support Saved Mike Hovey of Fora Health

    A Journey of Transformation: Mike Hovey's Path to Recovery

    Picture
    "I'm blessed to get to witness the miracles of recovery every day. People coming in here truly lights off, defeated. And in 60 to 90 days, there's hope again, lights are back on, vibrant. I see these pathways of opportunities presented themselves." 
    —Mike Hovey of Fora Health
    ​In our latest episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we had the honor of sitting down with Mike Hovey from Fora Health, affectionately known as "Mentor Mike." His story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of recovery, community support, and the often-overlooked practice of meditation. Mentor Mike first appeared on RRP SHOW 010: RUNNING TOWARDS RECOVERY: TRANSFORMING LIVES WITH GTD (GO THE DISTANCE) where he discussed being a mentor for Izzy Alvarado & GTD.
    Mike’s journey began in a chaotic environment filled with substance abuse and frequent incarcerations. By his early twenties, Mike found himself deeply entrenched in the world of addiction, facing numerous challenges that seemed insurmountable. However, a pivotal moment came when he chose family over friends, moving to Portland in search of a better life. This decision set him on a path that would eventually lead to profound change.
    One of the key elements in Mike’s recovery was the introduction of meditation. Initially skeptical, Mike discovered that meditation was more than just a practice—it was a lifeline. Through meditation, he began to cultivate self-awareness, discipline, and a deep sense of inner peace. This practice became the cornerstone of his recovery, allowing him to navigate the complexities of life with a clear and focused mind.
    At Fora Health, Mike has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. His role as a mentor allows him to give back to the community, offering guidance and support to those who are just beginning their recovery journeys. Mike's story is a reminder that recovery is not just about abstaining from substances; it's about rebuilding one’s life, embracing new practices, and finding purpose.
    The Real Recovery Podcast is dedicated to sharing stories like Mike’s because they highlight the resilience of the human spirit. Mike’s transformation is a testament to the power of recovery, and it serves as a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with addiction. His journey from chaos to clarity is not just inspirational—it’s proof that with the right support and practices, anyone can turn their life around.
    #RealRecoveryPodcast,#MikeHovey,#ForaHealth,#AddictionRecovery,#Meditation,#Transformation,#Purpose,#Hope,#Inspiration,#Recovery @forahealthpdx

    Coming up next week...

    Join us for Episode 18 of the Real Recovery Podcast as we sit down with Becca Stabach. From her chaotic high school years to her inspiring transformation, Becca's journey is a testament to resilience and community. Tune in for an episode filled with raw honesty, heartfelt moments, and inspiration for anyone on their recovery path. Don't miss it!
  • Published on

    RRP 016: Jonah W's Journey of Resilience, Courage, and the Transformative Power of Recovery

    Discover Jonah W's inspiring transformation from addiction and homelessness to a life of purpose and service on the Real Recovery Podcast.
    Picture
    I will keep getting on my knees and fucking praying every morning if the payout is having a little bit of joy and a little bit of happiness and laughter and goofiness and a little bit of contentment and being able to walk slowly and take in the beauty of the world around me and appreciate every fucking flower and every fucking moment.
    — Jonah W
    ​Welcome to the latest episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, where we dive deep into the incredible and inspiring journey of Jonah W. Join hosts Julie P. and Peter B. at Another Chance Rehab as they explore the raw and heartfelt story of Jonah's transformation from the depths of addiction and homelessness to a life filled with hope, stability, and purpose.
    *Content warning: This episode explores heavy emotional topics that some may find triggering or disturbing.
    Share with your Friends & Family
    ​In this powerful episode, Jonah shares his struggles with addiction, the pivotal moments that led him to seek help, and the life-changing decision to embrace service and daily routines. Through honest and vulnerable dialogue, Jonah's story highlights the importance of community support, mentorship, and the daily commitment required for sustaining recovery.
    ​Listeners will be moved by Jonah's resilience and courage as he navigates the challenges of addiction, psychosis, and despair. His journey underscores the significance of finding joy in simple tasks, the transformative power of routine, and the deep gratitude for the small, everyday aspects of life that signify stability and safety.
    ​Julie and Peter provide a supportive platform for Jonah to share his experiences, offering insights into the transformative power of recovery and the importance of seeking help. This episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the incredible potential for healing and growth.
    ​Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, hope, and the reminder that recovery is a journey, not a destination. Tune in to hear Jonah's story and discover the profound impact of resilience, courage, and community support on the path to recovery.
    *We are deeply grateful to Another Chance Rehab for graciously allowing us to record this episode at their facility.

    Coming up next week...

    On the Real Recovery Podcast, join us for an inspiring conversation with Mike Hovey, affectionately known as 'Mentor Mike.' We'll explore his deeply moving journey from addiction to recovery, highlighting his impactful work with Fora Health. Learn how meditation became a cornerstone in his life, guiding him to help others navigate their recovery. Tune in for an episode filled with resilience, hope, and the revolutionary spirit of recovery.
    ​#RecoveryJourney, #AddictionRecovery, #RealRecoveryPodcast, #HopeAndHealing, #OvercomingAddiction, #ServiceInRecovery, #DailyRoutine, #CommunitySupport
  • Published on

    RRP 15: True Colors of Recovery: Finding Your Tribe in the LGBTQ+ Community with Chris G

    True Colors Recovery podcast episode, LGBTQ+ recovery podcast episode, Chris G True Colors Recovery interview, Real Recovery Podcast Pride Month, True Colors Recovery LGBTQ+ community support
    "It really takes a village to recover and having somebody that really understands what your goals are and checks in with you and helps you meet them is we find to be particularly supportive and leads to good outcomes in people's personal recovery." - Chris G

    Celebrating True Colors Recovery & June Pride Month on the Real Recovery Podcast

    In today's Episode 15, we are thrilled to bring you an enlightening and heartfelt discussion from True Colors Recovery. As June is Pride Month, this episode holds special significance as we celebrate the resilience and strength of the LGBTQ+ community. Hosted by Peter and Julie, this episode features Chris G. from True Colors Recovery, who shares his inspiring journey and the incredible support this organization provides to individuals in recovery.
    The Journey to True Colors Recovery
    ​Chris G. opens up about his path to sobriety, starting from his struggle with addiction and numerous attempts at rehabilitation. His story reflects perseverance and the power of finding the right support system. After many residential programs, PHP, IOP, and various therapies, Chris finally found stability at Fora Health in Southeast Portland in late 2022. His journey took a positive turn when he connected with True Colors Recovery, an organization he had heard of but never engaged with deeply until last year.
    ​The Role of Peer Mentorship
    One of the highlights of True Colors Recovery is its peer mentorship program. Chris describes his role as a Recovery Support Service Coordinator (RSSC) and how he transitioned into this position. True Colors Recovery offers a structured peer mentorship program where experienced individuals support newcomers in their recovery journey. This mentorship provides stability and helps individuals navigate various challenges, from finding safe housing to accessing healthcare and maintaining food security.
    ​Diverse Meetings and Community Support
    True Colors Recovery stands out for its wide range of support meetings tailored to different needs. Chris talks about the numerous meetings held weekly, including traditional 12-step meetings like AA and NA, as well as non-12-step programs like Recovery Dharma, which is based on Buddhist principles. The organization also offers harm reduction meetings, such as Rewrite Recovery, which focus on reducing adverse consequences and promoting intentional use.
    Creating a Safe and Vibrant Space
    Beyond meetings, True Colors Recovery fosters a vibrant community through various events and activities. Chris emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community to socialize and support each other. From drag shows and dance parties to open mic nights and sober somatics workshops, True Colors provides numerous opportunities for community members to connect and have fun in a sober 
    Pride Month Celebrations
    As part of Pride Month,  True Colors Recovery  has planned several exciting events. Chris highlights the upcoming "Spill the Tea Dance" hosted by the Glam Lot, a sober drag troupe, and a special "Freedom from Bondage Drag Show." These events not only celebrate Pride but also reinforce the importance of community and connection in the recovery journey.
    ​Finding Your Tribe
    A recurring theme in this episode is the importance of finding your tribe. Peter and Julie, along with Chris, discuss how recovery can feel daunting without the right support system. True Colors Recovery helps individuals find their place within the community, offering a sense of belonging and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with others who understand their struggles.
    Conclusion
    Episode 15 of the Real Recovery Podcast is a celebration of recovery, community, and pride. It highlights the transformative impact of True Colors Recovery on the lives of its members and underscores the importance of support, connection, and acceptance in the journey to sobriety. Whether you're new to recovery or have been on this path for a while, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.
    Stay connected with us on social media, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and inspiring stories from the Real Recovery community. Together, we can make recovery accessible and inclusive for everyone.
    If you’ve enjoyed our show, we’d love for you to share it with your friends and family. Your support helps us reach more people who can benefit from our conversations. Don’t forget to review and rate us on your favorite podcast platform, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music. Your feedback means the world to us and helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories and valuable insights. Thank you for being a part of our community! ​
    ​#RealRecoveryPodcast, #Episode15, #TrueColorsRecovery, #PrideMonth, #LGBTQRecovery, #RecoveryJourney, #PeerMentorship, #SoberCommunity, #AddictionRecovery, #CelebratePride, #InspiringStories, #MentalHealthSupport, #RecoverySupport, #SoberLiving, #CommunityHealing
  • Published on

    RRP 14: From Venice Beach to Sobriety: Kiki S’s Remarkable Journey

    Picture
    ​"I just think that everything that happens in your life happens for a reason. It doesn’t have to happen early on; it happens whenever it happens. Sometimes you don’t know what that reason is, but it will be revealed. Looking back, even from the painful experiences, I became smarter and stronger, and I deserved the good that came afterward because I worked on myself."
    - Kiki S.

    A Story of Resilience, Community, and Transformation

    In Episode 14 of the Real Recovery Podcast, we are honored to feature Kiki S., whose remarkable journey through sobriety is nothing short of inspiring. Kiki opens up about her challenging childhood, the early influences of alcohol, and the profound impact of community in her path to recovery. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of support networks in overcoming addiction.
    Kiki's journey is filled with unique and transformative experiences. She talks about her time on Venice Beach, where she lived in a house directly across from an AA meeting. "There was an AA meeting right in front of my house. If there's ever divine intervention, that was it," Kiki recalls. She shares how watching the meetings from her window eventually led her to join and find a supportive community.
    One of the fascinating aspects of Kiki's story is her almost becoming a comedian. While working as a cocktail waitress at a hotel that hosted comedy nights, she rubbed shoulders with many comedians. "I always thought, 'Wow, being a writer for Saturday Night Live, that would be a really cool job.' But my main concern was partying," she admits, reflecting on how her addiction overshadowed her other aspirations.
    Kiki also discusses her early life and how her parents' tumultuous relationship influenced her path. "My mom and dad were really unhappy with each other, and they drank a lot. I remember listening to their fights and feeling very lonely," she shares. This sense of loneliness and early exposure to alcohol set the stage for her struggles later on.
    Her story is not just about the struggles but also about the victories. Kiki emphasizes the importance of community in recovery. "Just feel like it's going to be okay because you did get a lot of attention when you're the new person because if we don't have new people it'll die off," she says, highlighting the welcoming nature of AA meetings and the crucial role they played in her recovery.
    Kiki's journey is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible and that every challenge faced can lead to greater strength and understanding. "I just think that everything that happens in your life happens for a reason. It doesn’t have to happen early on; it happens whenever it happens. Sometimes you don’t know what that reason is, but it will be revealed. Looking back, even from the painful experiences, I became smarter and stronger, and I deserved the good that came afterward because I worked on myself," she reflects.
    Join us for an engaging and enlightening conversation that promises to offer hope, insight, and inspiration. Tune in this Friday to hear Kiki's full story and be part of a narrative that celebrates courage and transformation.
    Hey Real Recovery Podcast listeners! If you’ve enjoyed our show, we’d love for you to share it with your friends and family. Your support helps us reach more people who can benefit from our conversations. Don’t forget to review and rate us on your favorite podcast platform, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music. Your feedback means the world to us and helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories and valuable insights. Thank you for being a part of our community!
    ​#RealRecoveryPodcast, #SobrietyJourney, #Inspiration, #RecoveryStories, #PodcastEpisode, #HopeAndHealing, #AddictionRecovery, #CommunitySupport, #VeniceBeach, #ComedyJourney

    Coming up next week...

    ​On the next Real Recovery Podcast, we dive deep into the heart of Portland's vibrant recovery community with a special feature on True Colors Recovery. Coinciding with June Pride month, this episode celebrates the resilience and strength of the LGBTQ+ community. Join us as we explore True Colors' innovative peer mentorship programs, hear inspiring personal stories, and get a glimpse into their dynamic events that foster connection and support. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode that showcases the power of community and the many pathways to recovery. Tune in to discover how True Colors is making a difference, one life at a time.