Overcoming Addiction and Making a Difference at Oregon Recovers

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.
​"You never know when something you say can help somebody stay clean for even just one more day. That’s why I’m really transparent when it comes to my story."
—Bo Brinsen
​Struggles and Turning Points
Bo’s journey through addiction was marked by numerous challenges, including stints in juvenile detention and multiple stays in treatment centers. His turning point came when he realized that the life he was living was not sustainable. After several relapses and a deep sense of loss, Bo made a conscious decision to change his life. This decision was not easy, and it required him to confront his past, seek help, and lean on the support of those around him.
Share with your Friends & Family
Image description
​Making an Impact at Oregon Recovers
Today, Bo is the Development Director at Oregon Recovers, where he is making a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals across the state. Oregon Recovers is the only organization in Oregon that focuses directly on policy and advocacy for recovery. Bo’s work involves not only spearheading initiatives that support those in recovery but also advocating for systemic changes that will benefit the entire recovery community.
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.
Image description
​Conclusion
Bo Brinsen’s journey from the streets of Compton to leading Oregon Recovers is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible for everyone, regardless of their background. His story highlights the importance of community, the necessity of policy advocacy, and the impact that one person can have when they commit to helping others. In this episode, Bo’s candid discussion of his personal struggles and triumphs will inspire anyone facing similar challenges and remind us all that with support and determination, we can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.
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 next...

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.
#RealRecoveryPodcast #OregonRecovers #AddictionRecovery #CommunitySupport #RecoveryJourney

Show Notes:

Title: RRP 29: From the Streets of Compton to Leading Oregon's Recovery Efforts—Bo Brinsen’s Inspiring Journey
Presenters: Peter B., Julie L., Bo Brinsen
Length: [Insert Length of Episode]
Links to Websites Discussed:
Key Points:
  • [00:01:00] - Bo Brinsen's early life and struggles growing up in Compton, California.
  • [00:05:00] - His introduction to addiction and involvement in gang life.
  • [00:10:00] - The turning point in Bo’s life that led him to seek recovery.
  • [00:15:00] - Bo's multiple experiences with treatment centers and the challenges he faced in staying clean.
  • [00:20:00] - The importance of community support in recovery.
  • [00:25:00] - Bo’s role at Oregon Recovers as the Development Director.
  • [00:30:00] - The innovative initiatives at Oregon Recovers, including the Recovery Network of Oregon (RNO) App.
  • [00:35:00] - Bo’s personal journey of transformation from addiction to becoming a leader in the recovery community.
  • [00:40:00] - The impact of Bo’s transparency and willingness to share his story to help others.
  • [00:45:00] - The role of policy and advocacy in supporting recovery efforts statewide through Oregon Recovers.
  • [00:50:00] - The importance of peer support and mentorship in recovery.
  • [00:55:00] - Bo's reflection on the significance of family and maintaining strong relationships during recovery.
Summary: In this episode, Peter B. and Julie L. are joined by Bo Brinsen, the Development Director at Oregon Recovers. Bo shares his powerful story of overcoming addiction and his journey from the streets of Compton to becoming a leader in Oregon’s recovery community. He discusses the challenges he faced in his early life, his struggles with addiction, and the pivotal moments that led to his recovery. Bo’s role at Oregon Recovers highlights the importance of community support, policy advocacy, and innovative tools like the Recovery Network of Oregon (RNO) App in helping individuals on their recovery journey. His candid and heartfelt discussion serves as an inspiration to anyone facing similar challenges.
Conclusion: Bo Brinsen’s journey is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible for everyone, regardless of their background. His story emphasizes the importance of community, advocacy, and transparency in the recovery process. Tune in to hear how Bo and Oregon Recovers are making a significant impact on the lives of many across Oregon.
Hashtags:
#RealRecoveryPodcast #OregonRecovers #AddictionRecovery #CommunitySupport #RecoveryJourney