RCVR Stories

Description:

In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Frank Parisi, a heart transplant survivor, motivational speaker, fitness and mindset coach, and best-selling author, to explore Frank’s remarkable journey from addiction to transformation. Growing up in Little Italy, New York, Frank faced unique challenges that led him into substance abuse at a young age, entangled in a world of organized crime and a turbulent family life. Frank shares the gripping reality of his addiction, its impact on his personal relationships, and the profound struggles he endured in his pursuit of sobriety.

As Gary and Frank discuss their shared experiences with addiction, Frank opens up about the pivotal moments that led him to recovery, including a transformative encounter he attributes to divine intervention. From facing life-threatening health issues—including a rare post-Covid pneumonia and an eventual heart transplant—to building resilience and strength for his family and clients, Frank’s story is one of survival, faith, and hope.

Join this episode for a raw, uplifting conversation as Frank discusses his renewed purpose through Emotion Wellness, the importance of community, and his mission to inspire others toward healing and self-improvement.

About Frank Parisi:

Frank Parisi is a heart transplant survivor, motivational speaker, and best-selling author whose journey through addiction, severe health challenges, and ultimate recovery has inspired countless people. Growing up in Little Italy, New York, Frank faced adversity from a young age, navigating the tough streets and family dynamics, leading him to early struggles with substance abuse. His path to sobriety, personal transformation, and resilience are a testament to his enduring commitment to self-improvement and helping others.

Now a mindset and fitness coach, Frank works passionately to empower others to overcome their own struggles, drawing on his life experiences to offer valuable insights and practical support. His current focus is his wellness venture, Emotion Wellness, where he advocates for innovative approaches to health, including movement-based healing and breathwork.

Frank’s story is a powerful example of endurance, growth, and service. Follow Frank on Instagram and explore his journey further at frank-parisi.com and emotionwellness.com.

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe

Description:

In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with John “J. Buck” Buckley, who shares his deeply personal journey through addiction, resilience, and self-discovery. Born in Ireland and raised in New York, John opens up about his early life in a middle-class family, the impact of his father’s struggle with alcoholism, and how he unknowingly followed a similar path. From his first encounter with alcohol at 12, through years of substance abuse that affected his health, career, and family, John’s story resonates with anyone who has experienced the grip of addiction.

As John reflects on his turning points, including a critical moment when he made the courageous decision to embrace sobriety, he sheds light on the power of support, spirituality, and the ability to rebuild. Together, Gary and John discuss the journey to recovery, the importance of community, and the lessons learned from their own battles. Tune in for an authentic, heartening conversation that not only explores the depths of addiction but also celebrates the hope and strength needed to begin again.

About John Buckley:

John “J. Buck” Buckley is an entrepreneur and recovery advocate who openly shares his journey through addiction, inspiring others to find their path to sobriety. Originally from Ireland and raised in New York, John’s battle with alcoholism deeply impacted his life, family, and career. Today, he uses his experience to encourage and support others in their struggles, sharing candid insights from his own journey and offering a hand to those reaching out for help.

To connect with John, follow him on Instagram: @jbuckofficial

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe

Description:

In this inspiring episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with transformation coach Fiona Rooney, who shares her powerful journey from addiction to a fulfilling life in wellness and coaching. Fiona opens up about the challenges of her fast-paced life in her 20s, managing multiple businesses and struggling with mental health. Her addiction and battle with self-worth eventually led her to a dark place, but hitting rock bottom became a turning point. Fiona discusses how she overcame addiction with the support of loved ones, therapy, and community, eventually dedicating herself to helping others transform their lives.

Fiona and Gary explore themes of resilience, the importance of setting boundaries, and the power of inner healing. Fiona shares insights from her wellness journey, emphasizing daily progress, self-compassion, and the commitment to helping others embrace their own paths to recovery. Now a coach and wellness advocate, Fiona combines personal experience and professional expertise to empower clients on their journey to health and self-discovery.

Join this heartfelt conversation filled with lessons on resilience, growth, and the power of community support.

About Fiona Rooney:

Fiona Rooney embodies transformation and resilience. With years of experience as a restaurateur and event planner, Fiona has shifted her focus to wellness, inspired by her personal journey of recovery. Her own path to healing has given her profound insight into both the physical and emotional aspects of wellness, grounding her work in gratitude, faith, and a deep intention to support others.

Fiona’s passion for health and wellness is more than just a career; it’s her life’s calling. She offers a range of wellness services and products, including Regenerative & Functional Medicine in partnership with Health N Wellness RX. Her carefully selected offerings provide essential tools for a healthier lifestyle, designed to support healing and overall well-being.

Her holistic approach encourages others to prioritize wellness and explore their best selves. Fiona’s story is a testament to resilience and renewal, inspiring individuals to embrace their journey to healing and authenticity.

Connect with Fiona on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fiona.rooneyhealth/
Learn more about her work: https://FionaRooneyHealth.com/

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe

Description:

In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes speaks with Jo Weatherford, a former Playboy model turned professor, TEDx speaker, and addiction expert. Jo shares her personal journey from Hollywood’s party scene to rock bottom, struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. After a life-altering arrest and failed suicide attempt, she made the courageous decision to turn her life around.

Jo discusses how she embraced recovery through non-traditional approaches, including inner child work, therapy, and aversion therapy, leading to 12 years of sobriety. She earned a master’s degree in Human Development and spent over a decade teaching addiction courses at the University of Nevada, guiding others toward healing. Now, as a mindset coach, she helps high performers tackle addiction, intimacy, and personal growth.

Throughout this conversation, Jo and Gary explore the importance of self-love, resilience, and overcoming shame and guilt. Jo shares her insights on trauma recovery, the challenges of working in the recovery field, and her passion for helping others reclaim their lives.

About Jo Weatherford:

Jo Weatherford is a living example of joy in recovery. In her 20s, Jo was a drug- and alcohol-addicted model, partying with Hollywood celebrities. After an arrest and a failed suicide attempt, she realized it was time to change. Determined to rebuild her life, Jo earned a master’s degree in Human Development and spent 12 years teaching addiction courses at the University of Nevada, while also leading prevention and intervention efforts for the Office of Student Conduct.

Today, Jo is a TEDx speaker, mindset coach, and addiction expert, focusing on non-traditional approaches to recovery. With 12 years of sobriety, Jo continues to inspire others, showing that radical transformation is possible through self-love, resilience, and connection.

Follow Jo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jo.weatherford/
Explore her work: https://recoveryremix.com/
Watch her TEDx talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJY4GkpRc7U

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe

Description:

In this inspiring episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Steve Adami, executive director of The Way Out Recovery initiative with the Salvation Army in San Francisco. Steve opens up about his powerful journey from addiction, crime, and repeated jail time to becoming a leader in recovery and rehabilitation programs. After spending over two decades in and out of prison, Steve experienced a life-changing transformation during his last sentence in 2010. Through faith, twelve-step programs, and sheer determination, he turned his life around, earning a master’s degree and dedicating himself to helping others.

Steve shares how his work at The Way Out focuses on addressing the homelessness and addiction crisis in San Francisco. His programs provide real-time access to recovery services, residential treatment, and long-term housing for those who need it most. Steve also discusses the challenges of balancing government and donor funding while maintaining the values of a faith-based organization.

Tune in to hear Steve’s heartfelt story of resilience, faith, and transformation as he sheds light on the importance of recovery programs in San Francisco and beyond.

About Steve Adami:

Steve Adami is the executive director of The Way Out Recovery initiative at the Salvation Army in San Francisco. After spending years in and out of jail due to addiction and crime, Steve transformed his life through faith and recovery. He now leads comprehensive recovery programs that focus on rehabilitation, reentry services, and homelessness solutions. His work has made a significant impact in San Francisco, where he advocates for effective alternatives to the city's housing-first model.

Follow Steve’s journey and initiatives on his website: https://www.steveadami.com/
Explore The Way Out: https://westernusa.salvationarmy.org/san_francisco/the-way-out/
Connect on Twitter: @TheWayOutSF, @salvationarmysf, @SteveAdami

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe

Description:

In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes talks with Suki Jones, author of Sea, Swallow Me, about her intense journey through addiction, trauma, and recovery. Suki opens up about her early experiences with substance abuse, including her struggles with alcohol, prescription drug addiction, and eating disorders. She recounts the emotional toll of growing up with an alcoholic father and codependent mother, and how these experiences led her down a path of self-destruction.

Suki candidly shares her battle with prescription medications like codeine and Fioricet, doctor shopping, and the fear of leaving her children motherless. Through her recovery, she found strength in twelve-step programs and a supportive community, which helped her regain control of her life. Now sober, Suki is working on her second book and continues to inspire others with her story of resilience.

Gary and Suki discuss the importance of trust, accountability, and the transformative power of sobriety. This episode offers hope and encouragement to anyone struggling with addiction, showing that recovery is possible with the right support.

About Suki Jones:

Suki Jones is an author, advocate, and recovery warrior who has overcome addiction and trauma to build a life of resilience and healing. Through her personal experiences with alcohol, prescription drugs, and eating disorders, Suki shares her story to inspire others on their path to sobriety. Her journey emphasizes the power of community, twelve-step programs, and personal growth. Suki is also working on her second book while continuing to speak about her recovery and the strength it has brought her.

Follow Suki on Instagram for updates: https://www.instagram.com/suki_jones/
Check out her book Sea, Swallow Me on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Swallow-Me-Suki-Jones-ebook/dp/B0BWQZRRFV

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe

Description:

In this heartfelt episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Paulette Kengg, author of Spirit Led Sobriety, to explore her incredible journey from the depths of alcohol addiction to spiritual freedom. Paulette opens up about her battle with alcohol, which began as a way to cope with insomnia and personal trauma but quickly spiraled into a destructive dependence. She shares the emotional toll it took on her life, including failed recovery attempts, morning drinks of Jack Daniels, and a near-death experience involving alcohol and Ambien.

Paulette’s story is one of transformation and resilience, finding her path to sobriety through faith, neuroplasticity, and a deep commitment to spiritual growth. In this episode, she discusses the importance of spirituality in her recovery and the role of daily practices like prayer and gratitude journaling. Gary and Paulette reflect on the challenges of addiction and the incredible freedom that sobriety brings. Paulette’s powerful story offers hope to those battling addiction and inspires others to find their own path to recovery.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, faith, and the undeniable strength of the human spirit.

About Paulette Kengg:

Paulette Kengg is the author of Spirit Led Sobriety and a dedicated advocate for addiction recovery through spiritual healing. After overcoming her own battle with alcohol addiction, Paulette now shares her story to inspire others on their journey to sobriety. Through her book and her recovery community, she offers guidance and support for those seeking a faith-based path to freedom from addiction. Her mission is to show that through spirituality, personal growth, and resilience, true recovery is possible.

Follow Paulette on Instagram: @spiritledsobriety22 and join her recovery community on Facebook: Spirit Led Sobriety.

Check out her book Spirit Led Sobriety on Amazon: Spirit Led Sobriety by Paulette Kengg.

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe

Description:

In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with recovery advocate Laurie Anderson to discuss her deeply personal journey from addiction to sobriety. Laurie bravely shares her experience with alcohol and substance abuse, revealing the emotional struggles she faced, including the pressures of perfectionism, the challenges of her Italian family dynamics, and the heartbreak of her son’s battle with heroin addiction. Through candid storytelling, Laurie discusses how she hit rock bottom, only to rise up with the help of support groups, self-love, and relentless determination.

Together, Gary and Laurie explore the importance of non-traditional recovery paths, shedding light on the 'recover out loud' movement and the powerful community that embraces all recovery journeys. Laurie emphasizes the need for open-mindedness in the recovery process and shares how her dedication to sobriety has led her to help others through events, social media, and advocacy.

Whether you are in recovery, know someone who is, or simply seek inspiring stories of resilience, this episode offers valuable insights into overcoming addiction and finding strength in community. Don’t miss Laurie Anderson’s powerful story of hope, recovery, and the joy of rebuilding life from the ground up.

About:

Laurie Anderson is a passionate recovery advocate dedicated to helping others navigate their journeys to sobriety. After overcoming her own battle with addiction, Laurie found strength in the 'recover out loud' community and now shares her story to inspire others. She is actively involved in organizing events and working with organizations that provide resources for those in recovery. Laurie's mission is to spread hope and create a supportive network for anyone struggling with addiction.

Follow Laurie on Instagram for daily inspiration and insights: @laurs_soberworld 

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe

PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

In this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes brings together inspiring stories of transformation and resilience from individuals who have overcome addiction and embraced sobriety. Through powerful clips from past episodes, listeners will hear firsthand how these incredible guests have rebuilt their lives and found personal growth after hitting rock bottom.

Guests like Derrick Michaud share how addiction threatened to derail their careers, but through hard work and dedication, they’ve emerged stronger, building successful businesses and finding new purpose. Luke Worsfold opens up about how his battle with addiction led him to discover the importance of therapy, self-love, and accountability in his recovery process. Michael Quigley reflects on his first year of sobriety and how the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous helped him recalibrate his life.

Anthony Zorzetto’s journey from homelessness to sobriety serves as a testament that anyone can recover and thrive, while Charlie Levoir explains how his commitment to continuous education has allowed him to better support others facing addiction.

These moving stories of struggle, recovery, and transformation will inspire anyone facing challenges in life to persevere. Tune in and be motivated by the resilience of these individuals who have not only found sobriety but also transformed their lives in the process. 

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe

PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

Immerse yourself in the riveting journey of Kat Lyons, a beacon of hope in the realm of sobriety, in this enlightening podcast episode. 

Kat opens up about her battle with alcoholism, her transformative journey towards recovery, and how she channeled her experiences into becoming a Sober Travel Expert. 

From her early struggles with alcohol, to adopting children from foster care, to finding acceptance and strength in a 12-step program, Kat's story is a testament to resilience and self-realization. Hear firsthand how she navigates the world of travel sans alcohol, orchestrates onboard meetings on cruises, and provides a supportive community for those maintaining sobriety while traveling. 

This episode is not only an exploration of Kat's personal journey, but also a discussion on overcoming addiction, discovering a higher power, and the transformative power of community support. Whether you're on the path to recovery or seeking inspiration, this conversation with Kat Lyons is sure to resonate with you. 

Tune in to be part of this inspiring narrative of hope, resilience, and alcohol-free living. 

ABOUT KAT LYONS:

Kat Lyons is a beacon of hope and inspiration in the world of sobriety. She battled and overcame alcoholism at a young age, transforming her life through determination and a 12-step program. Today, she is a dedicated mother of two adoptive children from foster care, and an advocate for alcohol-free living. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-realization, and community support.

Kat's mission extends beyond personal recovery. She is a Sober Travel Expert, helping others navigate the world without alcohol. She has been instrumental in orchestrating onboard meetings on cruises, providing a supportive environment for those maintaining sobriety while traveling. Kat's work is a testament to her commitment to helping others on their journey to recovery.

Follow Kat Lyons on her inspiring journey and stay connected with her through her Instagram account (@sobertraveling_) https://www.instagram.com/sobertraveling_ and her official website https://KatLyonsOfficial.com.  Join her as she continues to spread hope, inspiration, and practical guidance for those on the path to sobriety. 

► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com

🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!

🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 

🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

Sign Up Now

 
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe