In honor of the end of Recovery Month, we are resharing a powerful recovery story from Episode 4 of King County Recovery Conversations. We hope you enjoy.

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On the show this week: finding freedom from addiction. The Sober Curator founder Alysse Bryson joins host Heather Venegas for an inspiring conversation with Joe Conniff.

Joe’s journey into and out of addiction is a powerful one. At his lowest point, Joe was homeless and dealing drugs on the streets of Seattle. He eventually landed in jail, where he knew he needed to change.

Behind bars, Joe learned the power of meditation and used it to better understand himself and his substance use disorder. He went on to learn and eventually teach yoga and became a small business owner.

Joe’s story is one of resilience and resolve, and he’s proof that no matter how hard life gets, it can always get better. Someone once told Joe to stay close to what works, and he certainly has.

Joe is the author of “Causes and Conditions: A Life Experience in Addiction and Recovery” and supervisor for the REACH Reentry Program.

Resources from the episode: 

Join host Deaunte Damper on this intriguing episode of King County Recovery Conversations as he interviews Malika Lamont. Known for her impactful advocacy in the fields of mental health and substance use, Malika shares her decades-long journey from working in therapeutic foster care to spearheading policy change and leading innovative programs like LEAD (Let Everyone Advance with Dignity) and VOCAL Washington.

In this episode, Malika opens up about the intricate challenges and triumphs involved in policy advocacy, her hands-on work with syringe exchanges, and the significant legislative shifts during the pivotal year of 2020. She provides a vivid recount of her involvement in the historic Washington State Supreme Court's Blake decision and its repercussions on drug policy. Deaunte and Malika also delve into the importance of community-level support and the ways in which state financial investments aim to enhance recovery infrastructure.

Listeners will gain insight into the human impact of public policies and the persistent effort required to advocate for equity and justice. Malika’s heartfelt reflections remind us of the power of collaboration, the significance of listening to affected communities, and the ongoing need for systemic change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of recovery, policy, and community advocacy.

Resources from the episode:

- Contact Malika at [email protected]

- Check out VOCAL-WA: https://www.facebook.com/VOCALWA/, https://wearepda.org/?s=VOCAL-WA

- Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/  

- The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/ 

- If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/ 

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠[email protected]⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

Join host Christopher Archiopoli on King County Recovery Conversations as he welcomes Johnny Bousquet, whose life journey from addiction-ravaged childhood to a triumphant recovery offers deep insights into systemic challenges and personal triumphs. Johnny shares compelling stories about using low-level crimes to survive, leading to repeated encounters with the criminal justice system. It is through programs like LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion) that Johnny found connection and holistic support, ultimately transforming his life.

In this episode, Johnny emphasizes the importance of having a fierce advocate, like a dedicated case manager, and the unique challenges faced when accessing resources without stable housing. He talks candidly about his struggles with relapse and the crucial turning points in his recovery journey, such as the positive reinforcement techniques at an all-men’s treatment center. Christopher and Johnny discuss the significance of meeting people where they're at, fostering a sense of belonging to effectively engage individuals in recovery.

This episode delves into the complex tapestry of addiction, mental health, and systemic barriers, offering hope and actionable insights. Johnny's reflections serve as a reminder of the resilience and support that foster successful recovery—making this a deeply rewarding and inspirational conversation.

Resources from the episode:

- Learn more about the LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion) program ⁠here⁠: https://leadkingcounty.org/ 

- Connect with Johnny Bousquet here⁠: https://wearepda.org/team/john-bousquet/ 

- Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/  

- The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/ 

- If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/ 

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠[email protected]⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

Join host Heather Venegas on King County Recovery Conversations as she welcomes Bill Goodgion, Executive Director of Recovery Beyond, and members Krissy and Olga. This inspiring episode delves into how Recovery Beyond uses outdoor activities to foster recovery and connection. Olga shares her heart-wrenching journey from battling substances to finding solace and growth through the program, while Krissy talks about overcoming addiction and embracing a life of purpose in Seattle.

Bill Goodgion explains the importance of connecting with nature and each other in the recovery process. He elaborates on the four ways to get involved with Recovery Beyond: becoming a member, volunteer, donor, or partnering with other treatment programs. The discussion highlights the organization's impact on participants' lives, including audacious goals like climbing Mount Adams.

Listeners will be inspired by personal stories of resilience and the power of community. The episode also promotes upcoming events like Recovery Day at the Mariners and International Overdose Awareness Day, offering hope and resources for those on their recovery journey.

Resources from the episode:

- Check out Recovery Beyond: https://www.recoverybp.org/ 

- Recovery Day at the Mariners tickets: https://mariners.com/recovery

- International Overdose Awareness Day Information: https://www.overdoseday.com/campaign-resources/

- Together We Can, Remembrance event in observance of International Overdose Awareness Day in Seattle on 8/29 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/together-we-can-tickets-991315500347?aff=oddtdtcreator

- Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/ 

- The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

- If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠[email protected]⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

In this episode of the King County Recovery Conversations podcast, host Heather Venegas sits down with Kimmy Reedy, a behavioral health frontline worker with a remarkable story of personal transformation and dedication to helping others in their recovery journey.

One of the key topics discussed in the episode was the Recovery Navigator Program (RNP) in King County, WA, which was created in response to the Blake decision. Kimmy's role in the RNP is crucial, as she works with law enforcement, first responders, and healthcare professionals to offer individualized and voluntary support to those in need. Listen to learn more about Kimmy's incredible journey and the vital work being done by the Recovery Navigator Program.

Resources from the episode:

- Peer Washington: https://www.peerwa.org/ 

- Check out the Recovery Navigator Program: https://www.recoverynavigatorprogram.org/

- Washington Peer Network: https://washingtonpeernetwork.org/ 

- Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

- The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

- If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠[email protected]⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

Join host Christopher Archiopoli on King County Recovery Conversations as he welcomes Jared Stern, an HIV researcher at Fred Hutch Cancer Center. Jared recounts their personal journey, from a grim HIV diagnosis at 19 to finding hope and a sense of belonging in the HIV community. Together, they delve into the stark realities of living with HIV, emphasizing the critical role of community support and respectful language in combating stigma.

Critical topics include the disconnect between academic research and real-life experiences, the weighted burden of stigma in medical settings, and the ongoing fight for broader representation and acknowledgment of marginalized communities affected by HIV. Jared's story is a testament to the resilience and empowerment that come from community support, lifting the veil of stigma, and pushing for scientific breakthroughs that change lives. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that sheds light on the intersection of HIV, mental health, and social justice.

Resources from the episode:

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

Join host Heather Venegas on King County Recovery Conversations as she welcomes Christopher Archiopoli, a dedicated advocate for those in recovery. Christopher shares his compelling journey of self-acceptance, overcoming addiction to methamphetamine and cocaine, and living with HIV. He opens up about the tremendous impact that a significant event had on his decision to embrace recovery and the innovative harm reduction approach that saved his life.

In this episode, Christopher discusses his evolution from hairstylist to group facilitator at a recovery program that helped him find his true calling. He talks about the crucial role of community support, especially for those seeking recovery as well as for those newly diagnosed with HIV, and the importance of fostering connection. Heather and Christopher underscore the transformative power of peer support and open communication for breaking down shame and stigma.

Listeners will be captivated by Christopher’s candid conversation about the barriers to recovery and how sharing one’s story can be a beacon of hope for others. Christopher’s resilience and advocacy work shine through as he recounts his involvement with various groups and his contributions to the King County Board of Health. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on reclaiming worth and identity in recovery, and the powerful impact of being unashamed.

Resources from the episode:

 Connect with Christopher Archiopoli and his Monday night group on Instagram, LinkedIn  and peerseattle.org. Read his bio here.

- Learn more about LEAD through https://wearepda.org/programs/seattle-king-county-lead/.

https://www.uwpositiveresearch.com/

- Recovery Day at the Mariners on September 15, Mariners.com/recovery, WRA Facebook page and KCRC Facebook page.

-Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

-The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

-If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at [email protected]

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition online, on Facebook @KingCountyRecoveryCoalition or on YouTube ([@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition]).

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

Join host Heather Venegas as she welcomes Mikel Kowalcyk on King County Recovery Conversations. Mikel shares her experiences working in Seattle's Waterfront, Chinatown, Rainier Beach, and Beacon Hill districts, confronting the fentanyl crisis head-on.

Heather and Mikel discuss the street-based outreach approach of Reach, highlighting the complexities of convincing clients to seek help beyond their comfort zones. Mikel underscores the crucial role of motivational interviewing and harm reduction strategies in achieving client goals related to housing and stability. Discover how the LEAD program has expanded from a pilot in 2011 to being replicated nationally and internationally.

The conversation takes a personal turn as Mikel shares her journey from active addiction and legal troubles to serving others in her recovery. Her story emphasizes the importance of self-care, work-life balance, and the need for a broader definition of recovery. Tune in to hear about the power of trauma-informed care and understanding, rather than judging individuals' situations.

Resources from the episode:

Join host Deaunte Damper on King County Recovery Conversations as he welcomes Ronnie Rolax, a beacon of hope for those navigating the path of recovery. Ronnie opens up about his journey of repeated incarceration due to misguidance and misinformation, emphasizing the transformative power of community support and accurate information. He shares poignant insights on the burden of guilt and shame and the incredible relief of finding kindred spirits.

In this episode, Ronnie highlights how events like Black Music Month, Juneteenth, and Pride Month play a crucial role in fostering community strength and resilience. He dives into his work providing community housing and the unyielding importance of safe spaces amidst rising street violence. Ronnie also shares his experiences assisting individuals in recovery, witnessing their triumphant transformations as they find stability and purpose.

Listeners will gain valuable advice on supporting loved ones struggling with addiction and the significance of acknowledging a higher power in the recovery process. Ronnie introduces the concept of a genogram to trace genetic predispositions to addiction, offering a unique perspective on understanding and combating this progressive disease. This episode is not just a story; it's a guide to turning adversity into stepping stones while advocating for better reentry pathways from street life to stability.

Resources from the episode:

Join host Alysse Bryson on King County Recovery Conversations as she welcomes Wil DeRouen, a certified peer counselor and impactful community advocate. Wil shares his transformative journey from incarceration and addiction to becoming a guiding force for single fathers and individuals in the BIPOC community. He recounts mentoring success stories, including helping a program graduate who became a firefighter and another who navigated the loss of his wife while completing the program.

In this heartfelt episode, Wil emphasizes the power of peer-to-peer support, drawing from genuine experiences to create immediate connections. He opens up about his own struggles and stresses the importance of wellness time, patient recovery, and community involvement. Alysse and Wil discuss their shared tenacity and the necessity of balance and recharging, illustrating how personal accountability and open communication can reshape lives.

Wil discusses his ambitious goals, including starting a business for reentry support and working with pre- and post-release inmates. He also touches on his involvement with Dad's Move, a nonprofit championing resources for fathers, and their upcoming events. Listeners are encouraged to explore the various pathways to recovery and find value in candid personal stories of resilience, unity, and community support.

Resources from the episode:

- Connect with Wil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wiljr75/ 

- Learn more about Dads Move here: https://dadsmove.org 

- Connect with Alysse on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssebryson/ and check out The Sober Curator: https://thesobercurator.com/ 

- Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/ 

-The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/ 

-If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/ 

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠[email protected]⁠.

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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message