In this powerful episode, B. Reeves and Justin McClendon sit down with Brian Hughes, Regional Resource Director at Caron Treatment Centers. Brian shares his jaw-dropping story—rising through the beer industry at Sam Adams, spiraling into addiction, landing in federal prison, and ultimately finding purpose through recovery.

Today, Brian helps others find their way out of the darkness. He walks us through Caron’s legacy, his work across the Northeast and Southeast, and how addiction doesn’t discriminate—whether you’re homeless or a CEO. This is a raw, redemptive conversation about second chances, humility, and the power of recovery.

Follow Caron & Contact Brian Hughes

Website: https://www.caron.org

Email: [email protected]

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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

Timestamps

00:00 – Meet Brian Hughes from Caron Treatment Centers

01:15 – Caron’s legacy and history in addiction treatment

03:00 – Brian’s background: Sam Adams, alcohol industry, and addiction

05:00 – His rock bottom: FBI arrest and federal prison

07:00 – First nudge from a judge: 40 days in prison

08:30 – Starting an AA group while incarcerated

09:30 – Why humility was the key to getting free

11:30 – Re-entering the world and recovery work post-prison

13:00 – Landing his first recovery job—while pleading guilty

14:00 – Why his record is now his greatest asset

16:30 – Sitting with people in crisis and offering hope

18:00 – Getting hired by Caron and learning from leaders

19:30 – Why lived experience matters in this field

21:00 – The importance of dignity and respect in recovery

23:00 – What Brian’s job looks like today: family navigation & advocacy

25:00 – How collaboration beats competition in addiction treatment

26:30 – Overview of Caron’s programs and campuses

28:30 – Signature programs: Grandview, Monarch, and Ocean Drive

30:00 – Caron’s neurocognitive treatment approach

31:00 – Admitting younger clients (as young as 17)

32:00 – Final thoughts on humility, service, and second chances

33:00 – How to connect with Brian and learn more about Caron

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#BrianHughes #CaronTreatmentCenters #AddictionRecovery

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#FromPrisonToPurpose #NeurocognitiveTherapy #SubstanceUseHelp

#ReentrySupport #SoberLeadership #MentalHealthAwareness

#AlcoholRecovery #12StepRecovery #RedemptionThroughService