Finding New Waters

In this heartfelt episode of Finding New Waters, B. Reeves and Justin McClendon sit down with Tom Farley—speaker, author, recovery advocate, and brother of the late comedian Chris Farley.

Tom opens up about his personal journey through addiction and recovery, the impact of his brother’s very public death, and how writing The Chris Farley Show helped him heal and see Chris in a new light. He reflects on growing up in Wisconsin, navigating sobriety after years of false starts, and finding purpose in working with teens, treatment centers, and now with Recovery.com.

From stories of Wall Street and New York nightlife to insights on authenticity, grief, and fun in recovery, Tom’s story is equal parts cautionary and inspiring. He also shares the exciting news of an upcoming film adaptation of The Chris Farley Show—and why he hopes it will become a tool for the recovery community.

📍 Learn more about Tom’s work: https://www.recovery.com

📕 Book: The Chris Farley Show

00:00 – Welcome & introduction to Tom Farley

01:00 – Tom’s work with Recovery.com and Recovery Cast

03:00 – How Chris Farley’s story first brought Tom into recovery work

05:00 – Sobriety “attempts” vs. true recovery

07:00 – The meeting that changed everything

10:00 – Writing The Chris Farley Show and seeing Chris differently

13:00 – The “mascot” persona and searching for authenticity

16:00 – Growing up, prep school, and Georgetown years

19:00 – Life in New York finance & Chris’s rise at SNL

22:00 – News about The Chris Farley Show movie adaptation

26:00 – Recovery.com’s mission & patient-first approach

30:00 – Building healthy workplace culture rooted in gratitude

34:00 – Belonging, connection, and living as one whole person

38:00 – Lessons from recovery: action before results

41:00 – Why fun in recovery is not only possible—but essential

“I thought recovery meant no more fun—but I’ve had more fun sober than I ever did drinking. You’re not going to tell a Farley they can’t have fun.” – Tom Farley

Tom Farley

Tom Farley is a speaker, author, and recovery advocate. He wrote The Chris Farley Show, a New York Times bestselling oral history of his brother, the late comedian Chris Farley. Tom has spent years developing prevention and treatment programs for teens and young adults, and today works with Recovery.com, a patient-focused platform dedicated to connecting people with recovery resources and building community through podcasts, articles, and education.

Recovery.com

The Chris Farley Show (Book)

Recovery Cast Podcast

Giving Voice to Depression Podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_nc

Podcast Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw

YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn

#TomFarley #ChrisFarley #RecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #FindingNewWatersPodcast #RecoveryCommunity #TheChrisFarleyShow #RecoveryDotCom #SobrietyJourney #FunInRecovery

In this episode of Finding New Waters, B. Reeves and Justin McClendon sit down with Ryan Soave, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, certified trauma therapist, and research consultant for Huberman Lab at Stanford University Department of Neurobiology.

Ryan opens up about his journey from entrepreneur and world traveler to finding his true calling in the treatment of trauma and addiction. He shares insights from years of clinical practice, research, and personal transformation—exploring why we confuse discomfort with danger, how trauma builds over time, and why resilience requires learning to sit with the difficult emotions instead of running from them.

Drawing on practices like meditation, Yoga Nidra, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and breathwork, Ryan offers both science and story to help us understand how to uncover our true selves through recovery and healing.

📍 Learn more about Ryan: Guardian Recovery – Ryan Soave

📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryan.swa

📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rjswa

⸻

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome & introduction to Ryan Soave

02:00 – From entrepreneurship to trauma treatment

04:00 – Research with Huberman Lab & VR experiments on fear

07:00 – The barnacle boat: how trauma builds up over time

10:00 – Early programming and its effects on relationships

13:00 – Why we confuse discomfort with danger

17:00 – Addictive behaviors and the search for relief

21:00 – Meaning-making, worry, and fear of the future

24:00 – Principles in action: practicing recovery in relationships

27:00 – Sensitivity, stress, and self-regulation tools

30:00 – Yoga Nidra and Non-Sleep Deep Rest explained

34:00 – Breathwork, pausing, and the power of stillness

41:00 – Practical tools for re-centering in stress

44:00 – Final reflections & how to connect with Ryan

⸻

💬 Powerful Quote:

“We often confuse discomfort with danger—and then react to it as if it’s life or death.” – Ryan Soave

⸻

👤 Guest Bio:

Ryan Soave

LMHC | Certified Trauma Therapist | Program Developer | Research Consultant

Ryan Soave brings deep experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, certified trauma therapist, program developer, and research consultant for Huberman Lab at Stanford University Department of Neurobiology. After graduating from Wake Forest University and building a successful business career, Ryan faced personal and spiritual challenges that led him to pursue a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling.

He has since worked with thousands of clients with complex PTSD, designed and facilitated large workshops, and spoken at national conferences as an expert in trauma and addiction treatment. Ryan has also been invited multiple times to lead meditations for members and staffers of the United States Congress. Trained in modalities such as yoga, Yoga Nidra, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and breathwork, Ryan approaches recovery with passion, commitment, and joy—believing that trauma treatment is an uncovering process that allows people to remember their true selves.

🌐 Learn More – Guardian Recovery

⸻

📚 Resources Mentioned:

• Yoga Nidra / NSDR guided practices

• Breathwork and Somatic Experiencing

• Guardian Recovery: https://www.guardianrecovery.com

⸻

📱 Follow Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_nc

⸻

▶️ Watch & Listen:

• Podcast Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw

• YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn

#RyanSoave #TraumaRecovery #AddictionRecovery #HubermanLab #FindingNewWaters #YogaNidra #NSDR #SomaticExperiencing #Breathwork #PTSDHealing

In this inspiring episode of Finding New Waters, B. Reeves sits down with Chris Love, who got sober at just 19 years old and has spent the last 16 years building a life centered around service, connection, and joy. Chris shares his journey from early addiction to finding freedom in recovery, and how getting sober young opened unexpected doors to a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.He talks about overcoming the stigma of getting sober in your teens, the role of faith in his recovery, and why he believes that life in sobriety isn’t just about abstinence—it’s about living fully. Chris also shares his passion for helping others see the possibility of joy in early recovery, proving that sobriety doesn’t have to mean missing out—it can mean gaining everything.⸻⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Chris Love01:05 – Chris’s story: From partying teen to early recovery04:20 – Why he chose sobriety at 1907:10 – Facing the stigma of young recovery10:00 – Building a support network and finding mentors13:15 – Faith, hope, and spiritual growth in sobriety17:40 – Why recovery isn’t just “not drinking”21:05 – Discovering fun, joy, and adventure in sobriety26:50 – Service work and giving back to the community31:10 – Life lessons from 16 years sober35:00 – Chris’s advice for young people in recovery39:20 – Final reflections & closing thoughts⸻💬 Powerful Quote:“You can have so much fun at 19 getting sober—you just have to be open to the possibility of it.” – Chris Love⸻👤 Guest Bio:Chris LoveChris Love entered recovery at 19 years old and has remained sober for over 16 years. His life’s mission is to show others—especially young people—that sobriety is not a limitation but an opportunity. Through faith, service, and a commitment to growth, Chris has built a life he once thought was impossible.⸻📚 Resources Mentioned:https://www.hqpsych.com/chris-love • Circle of Security Parenting: https://circleofsecurityinternational.com⸻📱 Follow Us: • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_nc⸻▶️ Watch & Listen: • Podcast Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608 • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw • YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn#ChrisLove #YoungRecovery #SobrietyAt19 #AddictionRecovery #FaithInRecovery #FindingNewWaters #SobrietyJourney #LifeInSobriety #RecoveryIsPossible

In this powerful episode of Finding New Waters, B. Reeves sits down with Luke DeGrossi, CEO of Novara Recovery Center, to talk about how a single journal entry in a psychiatric hospital changed the course of his life. Luke shares his raw and honest journey through addiction, mental health, and long-term recovery—and how it all led him to build a treatment center designed to meet people where they are.

Luke opens up about what it means to be of service, how to honor the “window of recovery,” and why personal experience can be one of the greatest assets in leading others out of the darkness. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or just seeking hope—you’ll find it here.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Luke DeGrossi

01:10 – Luke’s first experience with treatment and the psych ward journal

03:45 – Why he kept going back to recovery, even after falling

06:20 – “What if you had all the money in the world?” and the Novara vision

09:00 – Learning to answer the call when the window of recovery opens

11:15 – How Novara aims to meet people where they are

14:00 – Service, humility, and the weight of the work

17:50 – Family support and the impact of healing together

20:10 – Mentorship, Villanova, and giving back

23:00 – What makes a treatment center truly supportive

26:30 – Final reflections and the future of Novara Recovery

Guest Bio:

Luke DeGrossi

CEO, Novara Recovery Center

LinkedIn Profile

Luke is the CEO of Novara Recovery Center, where he leads the company’s strategy and mission to make addiction treatment accessible and effective. With over a decade of personal sobriety and more than 10 years of leadership experience, Luke combines professional excellence with a deep, personal passion for recovery. He also serves as Chairman of the Board for Friends of Valence College Prep and sits on the Villanova School of Business Mentorship Advisory Board.

Resources Mentioned:

• Novara Recovery Center: https://www.novararecoverycenter.com

• Circle of Security Parenting: https://circleofsecurityinternational.com

  
  

📍 Learn more: ⁠https://www.novararecoverycenter.com⁠

🔗 Connect with Luke on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukedegrossi/⁠

Watch & Listen

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_n

• Podcast Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw

• YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn

#LukeDeGrossi #NovaraRecovery #AddictionRecovery #FindingNewWaters #RecoveryLeadership #MentalHealthAwareness #SubstanceUseDisorder #LongTermSobriety #PsychWardToCEO #TreatmentThatWorks

In this episode of Finding New Waters, B. Reeves sits down with Dr. Greg Hobelmann, co-CEO of Ashley Addiction Treatment and a person in long-term recovery. Greg opens up about his battle with addiction as a practicing anesthesiologist, his path to sobriety, and how he ultimately returned to Ashley as a leader after once leaving in relapse. His story is one of redemption, personal transformation, and the power of second chances. From a deeply personal account of relapse to his rise as a respected recovery professional, this episode dives into how building healthy habits and embracing a life of service can truly lead to freedom and fulfillment in recovery.

Dr. Hobelmann also explores the science of habit formation, the spiritual foundation of sustained sobriety, and how recovery can be not just healing—but joyful.

📍 Learn more about Ashley Addiction Treatment: https://www.ashleytreatment.org

📧 Contact Dr. Greg Hobelmann: [email protected]

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro & Welcome

00:56 – What Is Ashley Addiction Treatment?

02:10 – Dr. Hobelmann’s Story: From Anesthesiologist to Recovery

05:00 – His First Treatment Experience

06:55 – Relapse and Redemption

08:15 – The Return to Ashley

10:35 – Redefining “Addict” & Battling Stigma

13:05 – Father Martin’s Legacy & the Origins of Ashley

17:20 – Monitoring Programs & Why Structure Helps

21:00 – Building Joy and Freedom in Recovery

23:10 – Daily Spiritual Maintenance

26:00 – Habit Formation & Behavioral Change

31:40 – Discipline, Structure & Emotional Sobriety

35:45 – Recovery as a Lifelong Journey

40:30 – Ashley’s Full Continuum of Care

49:00 – Final Reflections on Growth & Gratitude

50:35 – How to Reach Ashley Addiction Treatment

Key Quote

“If I don’t get high in sobriety, I’m not going to be able to stay sober. I’ve got to enjoy this.” — Dr. Greg Hobelmann

In this bold and passionate episode of Finding New Waters, B. Reeves sits down with Brandy Klingman—a licensed psychotherapist, founder, and CEO of St. Christopher’s and Magnolia Bell treatment centers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. With over two decades of experience in behavioral health, Brandy brings a rare blend of clinical insight and fearless advocacy to the conversation.She opens up about the fight to regulate dangerous substances like Kratom and Delta-8, the importance of long-term care, and what it’s like to bring her voice directly into policy conversations in Washington D.C. Whether you’re in recovery, a family member, or working in the treatment space, Brandy’s message is one of clarity, courage, and commitment to truth.⸻⏱️ Timestamps • 00:00 – Welcome & introduction to Brandy Klingman • 01:00 – About St. Christopher’s: 8-month treatment rooted in connection • 04:00 – Infusing clinical care into 12-step models • 05:30 – Why she works in national advocacy and what drives it • 08:00 – The need for people in recovery at policy tables • 12:00 – On stigma, honesty, and modeling change • 15:00 – Her personal and professional path into addiction work • 20:00 – Diagnoses like antisocial disorder: What needs to shift • 23:00 – How young people are reshaping mental health conversations • 24:30 – The risks of Kratom and Delta-8: What’s not being talked about • 30:00 – Foreign synthetics and how they’re getting into kids’ hands • 36:00 – Prevention, regulation, and protecting future generations • 42:00 – Her new women’s program: Magnolia Bell • 44:00 – Final thoughts: action, community, and staying in the fight⸻💬 Powerful Quote“If there’s going to be a decision made about mental health or substance use treatment, we need a voice in the room.” – Brandy Klingman⸻👤 Guest BioBrandy KlingmanPsychotherapist | CEO of St. Christopher’s & Magnolia Bellwww.brandypklingman.comBrandy Klingman is a licensed psychotherapist, founder, and CEO of both St. Christopher’s Addiction Wellness (a long-term men’s treatment center) and Magnolia Bell (a new program for women) based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She has over 20 years of experience in behavioral health and is a fierce advocate for regulatory reform, access to long-term care, and ethical leadership in addiction treatment. Brandy is active in both state and federal mental health policy conversations and is on a mission to change the way our country approaches recovery—starting with truth.⸻📚 Resources Mentioned • Brandy Klingman Official Website: https://www.brandypklingman.com • St. Christopher’s Addiction Wellness: https://www.addictionwellness.com • Magnolia Bell Women’s Program: (website not listed yet—can be added later) • Circle of Security Parenting: https://circleofsecurityinternational.com⸻📱 Follow Us • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_nc⸻▶️ Watch & Listen • Podcast Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw • Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608 • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw • YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn#BrandyKlingman #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAdvocacy #LongTermTreatment #MagnoliaBell #StChristophersRecovery #PolicyReform #FindingNewWatersPodcast

In this practical and energizing episode of Finding New Waters, B. Reeves sits down with Kate Wade and Krissy Metzler, co-founders of The GOALDEN System, to talk about what executive function really means—and why most of us were never taught how to manage time, goals, and emotions in a sustainable way.

Kate and Krissy break down the myths around productivity (“Just use a calendar!”), explain the brain science behind behavior change, and share their system for coaching individuals from overwhelmed to organized. Whether you’re neurodivergent, in recovery, juggling family and work, or just constantly feeling behind—this conversation offers validation, insight, and real strategies you can apply today.

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro and what executive function actually is

01:30 – Who The GOALDEN System helps (hint: it’s everyone)

04:00 – Behavior change vs. quick fixes

06:00 – The GOALDEN acronym and how their system works

10:00 – Neurodivergent brains and what they need

14:00 – Recovery, ADHD, and still feeling stuck

18:00 – Resistance to change and the path of least resistance

21:00 – Chaos is familiar, but doesn’t have to be permanent

24:00 – How long coaching takes and what it feels like

28:00 – Redefining success and building tools that last

36:00 – A favorite tip: externalizing your thoughts

39:00 – Cognitive flexibility and the truth about pivoting

40:00 – Final thoughts: celebrate your small wins

🧠 Key Topics Covered:

Executive function explained in real language

How behavior change really happens (hint: it’s not overnight)

Why neurodivergence is a strength when you know how to work with it

The GOALDEN system and how it adapts to you

How coaching supports recovery and emotional regulation

Replacing shame with self-awareness and strategy

💬 Powerful Quote:

“You deserve a good day. And we’re here to help you build one—your way.” – Kate Wade

👥 Guest Bios:

Kate Wade is an executive function coach with a background in marine science education and educational psychology. She brings brain-based strategies, humor, and deep compassion to every coaching relationship.

Krissy Metzler is a former English and special education teacher who specializes in behavior change and neurodivergent coaching. She’s also the brains behind The GOALDEN System’s newsletters and workshops.

Together, they co-founded The GOALDEN System—a coaching model that helps people manage time, reduce overwhelm, and feel better equipped to live the life they want.

📚 Resources:

Website: https://www.thegoaldensystem.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegoaldensystem

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thegoaldensystem

📱 Follow Us:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_nc

▶️ Watch & Listen:

Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw

YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn

#ExecutiveFunction #TheGOALDENSystem #NeurodivergentSupport #FindingNewWatersPodcast #BehaviorChange #TimeManagementTools #MentalWellnessCoaching #RecoveryAndPlanning #ADHDSupport #KateWade #KrissyMetzler

In this moving and unfiltered episode of Finding New Waters, we’re joined by Mayor Jacques Gilbert and Hollan Steen, Director of Admissions at Asheville Recovery Center, to share the remarkable story of Apex, North Carolina’s Substance Misuse Task Force.

The episode explores how a mayor and a formerly incarcerated man formed an unlikely alliance to battle addiction stigma, increase recovery resources, and create a more welcoming and inclusive community. They discuss the founding of the task force, the courage it took to start conversations about addiction in a conservative environment, and how their partnership has inspired other municipalities to take notice.

It’s a powerful testimony to the healing potential of connection, humility, and action at the local level.

⏱️ 

Timestamps:

00:00 – Opening & introductions

01:00 – How Hollan & Jacques first connected

05:00 – Breaking through shame and stigma in small towns

07:00 – The courage to walk into the mayor’s office

10:00 – Creating a task force with purpose and balance

13:00 – Building Peak of Hope: The outreach mission

17:00 – Lived experience and its role in public trust

21:00 – The power of family support in launching the task force

24:00 – From a hidden booth to community hugs: Peak Fest’s evolution

27:00 – The stigma in Wake County vs. Asheville

30:00 – Naloxone in Wake County Schools: A real victory

34:00 – Hope, collaboration, and how to get involved

🔑 

Key Points:

A mayor and a man with a felony conviction team up to build trust

Recovery stigma in Wake County and the courage to talk about it

The power of representation: why visibility matters in recovery

Supporting families with lived experience, not just data

Why this local model is gaining statewide attention

💬 

Powerful Quote:

“A government official sitting on a couch with a convicted felon, saying together we want to change the world—that would’ve never happened in Apex. Until now.” – Hollan Steen

🧠 

Guest Bios:

Jacques Gilbert

Mayor of Apex, NC | Former Police Captain | Community Advocate

Mayor Gilbert served 29 years in law enforcement before being elected mayor. He’s known for his commitment to connection, inclusion, and showing up for those who feel unseen.

Hollan Steen

Director of Admissions, Asheville Recovery Center

Hollan’s journey from incarceration to recovery leader is a testament to the power of second chances. He now leads admissions at ARC and speaks nationally about stigma, advocacy, and lived experience.

🌐 

Resources Mentioned:

Town of Apex: https://www.apexnc.org (Search: Substance Misuse Task Force)

Asheville Recovery Center: https://www.ashevillerecoverycenter.com

Naloxone Programs in NC Schools

Circle of Security Parenting: https://circleofsecurityinternational.com

📱 

Follow Us:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_nc

▶️ 

Watch & Listen:

Podcast Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw

YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn

In this powerful episode of Finding New Waters, B. Reeves sits down with Jeff Hatch — a former NFL player turned recovery advocate — for an unflinchingly honest and deeply redemptive conversation. Jeff shares his remarkable journey from playing for the New York Giants to battling addiction, relapsing, and ultimately rebuilding a meaningful life in long-term recovery. With raw insight and humility, Jeff opens up about the weight of secrets, the darkness of relapse, and the spiritual clarity he found through surrender.

Jeff’s path has taken him from the NFL to a federal investigation — and now, to a leadership role in recovery at Eagle Creek Ranch. Whether you’re in recovery or just need to hear a story of hope, redemption, and true transformation, this episode is for you.

👇 TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 – Intro & Reconnecting in Seattle

01:00 – Jeff’s football journey: from UPenn to the NFL

06:30 – Injury, addiction, and painkillers in pro sports

11:00 – The illusion of achievement as a cure

18:00 – Getting honest: From overdose to treatment

22:00 – Early recovery and starting over

28:00 – Relapse, fentanyl patches, and heroin

36:00 – Getting involved with federal law enforcement

43:00 – Facing public exposure and redemption

49:00 – Finding love and rebuilding a new life

55:00 – Living spiritually through chaos

01:00:00 – Jeff’s life today: marriage, career, and fatherhood

01:08:00 – Gratitude, authenticity, and using your pain for purpose

01:12:00 – Outro & how to connect with Jeff

🔗 Find Jeff Hatch:

Website: https://www.hatchcoaching.com

🏥 Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery: https://www.eaglecreekranchrecovery.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_nc

• Podcast Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw

• YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn

In this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode of Finding New Waters, B. Reeves sits down with Steve Lee, Senior Director of Strategic Relationships at Cumberland Heights. Steve reflects on his 35-year journey in recovery, his unexpected transition into the treatment field at age 58, and the guiding values that shape both his life and career. From stories of personal transformation to reflections on ethics in behavioral health, this episode is a masterclass in humility, wisdom, and the power of principled living. Whether you’re in recovery, working in the treatment space, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of authentic leadership, Steve’s words will resonate.

• [00:00] Introduction – Meet Steve Lee from Cumberland Heights

• [01:00] The Cheeseburger Story – A life lesson in acceptance

• [03:00] Starting a New Career at 58 – From family business to treatment field

• [07:00] Questions That Clarify Purpose – What do you love, value, and excel at?

• [12:00] Two Hats in Recovery Work – The separation of job and personal sobriety

• [19:00] A Job Meant to Be – How trusting the process led to the right opportunity

• [24:00] The Power of 12-Step Language – When the message hits the heart

• [29:00] What Keeps Steve Coming Back – Spiritual growth and humility

• [33:00] Ethics in the Treatment Field – Staying true in high-pressure environments

• [42:00] True North in Action – Doing the right thing even when it’s hard

• [46:00] Friendship, Change, and Growth – Recovery reshaping connection

• [50:00] Cumberland Heights & Arches – Trusted treatment for all ages

• [55:00] Final Reflections – Gratitude, growth, and staying in the solution

Steve Lee

Senior Director of Strategic Relationships, Cumberland Heights

Steve Lee brings over 12 years of experience in behavioral health and over 35 years of personal recovery. A former family business leader, Steve made a transformative mid-life career change to work in the addiction treatment field. He is widely respected for his ethical leadership, heartfelt communication, and dedication to recovery-centered care. At Cumberland Heights, Steve focuses on connecting professionals and families with treatment solutions that honor the integrity of the recovery process.

1. Reinvention at Any Age – It’s never too late to start living your passion.

2. Principled Recovery Work – True ethics come from personal accountability, not company policy.

3. Why We Keep Coming Back – Recovery isn’t just about stopping a behavior—it’s about spiritual growth.

4. Two Hats, One Mission – Personal recovery and professional roles must remain distinct.

5. Cumberland Heights Legacy – A beacon for 12-step rooted, clinically excellent care.

“Do my principles hold up when the mortgage is due, when my boss is on me about admissions? A principle is not malleable—it’s either firm or it’s not.” – Steve Lee

• Cumberland Heights Treatment Center: https://www.cumberlandheights.org

• Arch Academy (Adolescent Treatment): https://www.archacademy.org

• Still Waters (12-Step Immersion for Men): https://www.stillwatersrecovery.org

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newwatersrecovery

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newwatersrecovery

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-waters-recovery

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newwatersrecovery_nc

• Podcast Website: https://www.findingnewwaters.com

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NOV2g85KExFWU5mTz5Gjw

• Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-new-waters/id1684075608

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfAIXtiOgy1XFcwAduXgXw

• YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuJOc6yLcjibGGAKgLYPCN47etJCY89mn

#SteveLee #CumberlandHeights #FindingNewWatersPodcast #12StepRecovery #EthicsInRecovery #AddictionTreatment #SpiritualRecovery #RecoveryLeadership #ArchAcademy #StillWatersRecovery