Presenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 35 minutes

• [00:04:55] Tiffany shares the extraordinary story of being born inside a Mexican prison where both her parents were incarcerated.
• [00:07:32] A Christian woman from Oregon rescued Tiffany as a baby, raising her until her mother’s release and parole to the U.S.
• [00:09:22] Tiffany reflects on the trauma of losing nearly her entire extended family to deportation at the age of seven.
• [00:10:50] She discusses growing up between two vastly different households and the impact that had on her view of religion and trust.
• [00:13:00] Tiffany describes taking on adult responsibilities from a young age, helping raise her younger siblings while her mother worked.
• [00:15:10] Her mother’s relapse at age 12 was a pivotal event that triggered Tiffany’s own spiral into addiction.
• [00:15:55] By age 15, Tiffany became a mother herself and continued down a destructive path of substance use and emotional chaos.
• [00:16:55] She openly details her blackout drinking patterns and early drug use as indicators of deeper trauma and emotional disconnection.
• [00:23:30] Tiffany begins to unpack her healing process and the importance of reclaiming self-worth, motherhood, and a sense of purpose.

"Sometimes our best just doesn't cut it—we have to do better than our best." – Tiffany A

🎧 Listen to this episode: https://mdcr1.com/63📝 Read the blog post: https://mdcr1.com/63b🌐 Oxford House🌐 Wellbriety Meetings🌐 Real Recovery Podcast

#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryJourney #BornBehindBars #BreakingCycles #MotherhoodInRecovery #HopeAndHealing #TraumaToTransformation @OxfordHouse

RRP Episode 62 – Recovery Through Purpose: Scott’s Story of Mental Health and Redemption

Presenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 45 minutes

📝

Summary:

Summary:

In this powerful episode, Scott Spicer shares his lived experience navigating a mood disorder, surviving a childhood traumatic brain injury, and working through the challenges of an under-resourced mental health system. Rather than identifying as a peer mentor, Scott describes himself as an advocate and organizer focused on improving access to behavioral health care.

His story highlights the vital importance of visibility for those living with hidden disabilities and the transformative power of compassionate, community-based recovery.

🕒 Key Points with Time Stamps:

• [00:01:21] Introduction to Scott Spicer and his grassroots advocacy in the Centennial neighborhood
• [00:10:15] Scott’s earliest experiences with depression and emotional struggle as a teen
• [00:38:50] Finding hope through behavioral health advocacy
• [00:57:16] Founding National Mental Health and Dignity Day and organizing in the psychiatric liberation movement
• [01:26:00] Working across systems to address gaps in access to treatment for mental health and addiction
• [01:32:40] Commentary on the integration—and tension—between mental health and addiction services
• [01:39:59] "Our brain is an organ. We all deserve to be well." – Scott Spicer

💬

Quote:

"Our brain is an organ in our body, and we all deserve to be well." – Scott Spicer

🔗

Links to Websites Discussed:

• Another Chance Recovery
• Fora Health Treatment & Recovery
• Crestview Recovery
• CODA, Inc.
• Oregon Change Clinic
• Recovery Ways
• Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO)
• Mental Health America
• The Rosewood Initiative
• Measure 110 – Oregon Health Justice Recovery Alliance
• Recovery Works NW Detox
• Hooper Detox Stabilization Center (CCC)
• Oregon Health Authority
• Real Recovery Podcast

🎧

Listen Now:

https://mdcr1.com/62

📖

Read the Blog Post:

https://mdcr1.com/62b

📢

Hashtags and Mentions:

#MentalHealthRecovery #RealRecoveryPodcast #JusticeInvolvedRecovery #HiddenDisabilities #RecoveryJourney #PeerMentor #AddictionRecovery #HopeAndHealing @RealRecoveryPodcast

Presenters: Julie and Peter
Length: 1 hour, 11 minutes

• [00:01:45] Introduction to Kimberly and her early childhood experiences growing up in a home marked by addiction.
• [00:05:20] Entering the foster care system: navigating loss, instability, and separation from family.
• [00:09:48] Struggles with identity, abandonment, and searching for belonging as a young adult.
• [00:18:05] Key turning points: mentors and relationships that opened the door to recovery.
• [00:26:30] Embracing accountability and the deep work of healing from generational trauma.
• [00:41:15] Building a foundation of faith, resilience, and service in long-term recovery.
• [00:55:12] Kimberly’s reflections on grace, gratitude, and staying connected to the recovery community.
• [01:06:50] Final thoughts: hope for others and the importance of finding your true family in recovery.

In this heartfelt episode, Kimberly Good shares her journey through family addiction, foster care, and the long road to healing. From a childhood marked by separation and instability to embracing recovery and rebuilding her life, Kimberly’s story is one of extraordinary resilience and hope. She reflects on the mentors who believed in her, the faith that carried her through darkness, and the power of community in sustaining long-term recovery. Her journey reminds us that no matter our past, there is always a path to healing, belonging, and renewal.

Kimberly’s story is a moving testament to the strength of the human spirit. Her openness about trauma, her faith in recovery, and her unwavering belief in the possibility of change will inspire anyone walking their own recovery path. Tune in to hear how Kimberly turned pain into purpose and continues to build a life grounded in hope and connection.

• Real Recovery Podcast

• Listen to this episode: https://mdcr1.com/61
• Visit the blog post: https://mdcr1.com/61b

"Healing begins when you believe you are worth fighting for." — Kimberly

#RealRecoveryPodcast #FamilyAddiction #FosterCareSurvivor #RecoveryJourney #HopeAndHealing #BreakingTheCycle #TraumaRecovery #ResilienceAndHope @RealRecoveryPodcast

Title: RRP Episode 60 – From Fentanyl to Freedom: Conard’s Journey Through Methadone, Identity, and Hope
Presenters: Julie and Peter
Length: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Quote: “I couldn’t stop using. I couldn’t stop drinking. I hated myself... and I found people who told me that I was worth loving.” – Conard
Links:
Listening Link: https://mdcr1.com/60
Blog Link: https://mdcr1.com/60b
Real Recovery Podcast

Key Points with Time Stamps:

• [00:00:55] Introduction to Conard’s story and the moment he reached out for help
• [00:04:02] Growing up queer and neurodivergent, feeling isolated and misunderstood
• [00:10:15] Hiding behind academic and early career success while battling alcoholism
• [00:14:30] Escalation of use, including nitrous, fentanyl, and isolation from loved ones
• [00:18:40] A critical hospital moment that shifted his mindset and opened the door to recovery
• [00:23:55] Starting methadone treatment and building the structure needed for healing
• [00:32:12] Discovering recovery tools through Heroin Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous
• [00:42:10] Embracing truth, coming out as pansexual, and finding peace in identity
• [00:50:25] Practicing honesty, writing his steps, and developing a daily recovery rhythm
• [00:58:40] Final reflections on community, spirituality, and the freedom of self-acceptance

Summary:
Conard Carroll’s story is one of raw truth and hard-won freedom. After years of addiction that included alcohol, nitrous, and fentanyl, Conard found his turning point in a hospital bed. What followed was a powerful journey through methadone treatment, honesty, and connection. In this episode, Conard shares how coming out as pansexual, joining HA and AA, and writing down his recovery principles helped him reclaim his life. His story is a reminder that healing starts with truth, and freedom begins when we learn to love ourselves.

Websites Discussed:

• Heroin Anonymous (HA)
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
• Real Recovery Podcast

Call to Action:
Listen to the full episode: https://mdcr1.com/60
Read the blog post: https://mdcr1.com/60b

Hashtags and Mentions:

#RealRecoveryPodcast #FentanylRecovery #MethadoneSuccess #QueerInRecovery #HA #AA #AddictionRecovery #HopeAndHealing #FromFentanylToFreedom @RealRecoveryPodcast

Title:
RRP Episode 59 – Camille’s 8-Year Sobriety Milestone and the Power of Partnership in Recovery

Presenters:
Julie and Peter

Length:
1 hour, 6 minutes

• [00:02:00] Kicking off at the Out in Recovery Conference, Camille shares a fun moment that reflects her vibrant spirit.
• [00:03:00] Camille reflects on her childhood, growing up with the loss of her mother and navigating the pain of early life confusion.
• [00:51:00] Camille opens up about her partnership with Amanda, meeting through the rooms of recovery, and how their love story began at True Colors Recovery.
• [01:51:00] A heartwarming moment as Camille recalls wearing her wedding dress at an event, symbolizing both personal and collective milestones.
• [01:54:00] The inspiring encounter where Peter and Julie discuss how seeing Amanda and Tony at True Colors Recovery ignited the idea that change was possible.
• [02:00:00] Excitement builds as Camille shares plans to help launch the Rogue Community Center as a project of True Colors Recovery, expanding their mission of inclusion and support.
• [02:03:00] Closing thoughts from Julie and Peter on connection, growth, and the power of shared stories.

• True Colors Recovery
• Real Recovery Podcast

"Getting clean meant figuring out who I really am—finally being okay with being me." — Camille

In this powerful episode, Camille Ireland-Esquivel marks her eight-year sobriety anniversary with an honest, joyful, and deeply personal conversation. Camille shares her journey from childhood trauma through addiction to finding love and purpose in recovery. With humor and heart, she opens up about meeting her wife Amanda, the inspiration behind their work at True Colors Recovery, and the exciting launch of the Rogue Community Center. Camille’s story is a moving testament to resilience, community, and the transformative power of recovery.

Camille’s journey reminds us that even through hardship, the possibilities for growth and healing are endless. Her story shines a light on the beauty of partnership in recovery, the importance of community spaces, and the freedom that comes with embracing one’s true self.

🎧 Listen to the episode: https://mdcr1.com/59
📝 Read the blog post: https://mdcr1.com/59b
For more inspiring stories, visit Real Recovery Podcast.

#RealRecoveryPodcast #SobrietyAnniversary #QueerRecovery #AddictionRecovery #TrueColorsRecovery #RecoveryIsPossible @TrueColorsRecovery

Title:RRP Episode 58 – From Surviving to Serving: Nicole S.’s Journey Through Trauma and Recovery

Presenter: Julie and PeterLength: 59:02

Key Points:

Nicole opens up about a childhood marked by violence, addiction, and instability.

She shares how her first addiction wasn’t drugs, but the fast money of sex work.

Her drug use escalated quickly—within months she was using meth and heroin intravenously.

Nicole describes how a moment of truth with her children led to her first attempt at getting clean.

After relapsing, she found long-term recovery and now supports others through her work at Quest Center for Integrative Health.

Her story is one of resilience, radical honesty, and the importance of finding support.

Quote:“People in recovery are worth investing in. All we need is for someone to see us—and to show us how to believe in ourselves.” – Nicole S.

Links:

Listening Link: https://mdcr1.com/58

Blog Link: https://mdcr1.com/58b

Quest Center for Integrative Health

Real Recovery Podcast

Hashtags and Mentions:

#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #TraumaHealing #RecoveryJourney #QuestCenter @QuestPDX

Title:
RRP Episode 57 – Paul L: High Expectations, Hidden Addiction, and a Spiritual Awakening

Presenters: Julie and Peter
Length: 1 hour, 29 minutes
Listening Link: https://mdcr1.com/57
Blog Link: https://mdcr1.com/57b

Key Points with Time Stamps:

• [00:01:00] Julie and Peter open the show and introduce Paul L
• [00:03:00] Paul and Julie reflect on early recovery connections and community
• [00:09:00] Paul describes his "terminal uniqueness" and feeling like an outsider
• [00:11:00] The dual life: academic pressure vs. desire to fit in socially
• [00:14:00] First experience with cannabis and its immediate allure
• [00:17:00] The illusion of control: high-functioning addiction and academic success
• [00:31:00] Paul shares about his arrest, nine felonies, and the consequences
• [00:39:00] Living a lie—how the weight of dishonesty became unbearable
• [00:43:00] Relationship fallout and separation from his children
• [00:49:00] The turning point: failing despite abstinence, and embracing community
• [00:54:00] The role of non-pharmaceutical support and spirituality
• [01:01:00] Paul's perspective on character defects as opportunities for growth
• [01:10:00] Gardening, nature, and recovery as a practice of presence
• [01:17:00] Final reflections on connection, patience, and lifelong recovery

Quote:
"My addiction came out of a spiritual sickness that started at a really young age. Recovery gave me the chance to reclaim who I really am." —Paul L

Summary:
In RRP Episode 57, Paul L joins Julie and Peter to share a deeply honest and personal story of recovery. From a childhood shaped by high academic expectations and social pressure, to leading a hidden life of addiction and ultimately facing serious legal consequences, Paul’s journey is one of spiritual renewal and self-acceptance. He opens up about the internal battle between identity and image, the emotional weight of living a lie, and how recovery helped him reconnect with his true self. Through faith, community, and a commitment to honesty, Paul’s story reveals the transformative power of real recovery.

Conclusion:
Paul’s experience is a powerful reminder that no matter how far one falls, there is always a way back through honesty, connection, and personal growth. His journey encourages us to embrace every stage of healing—from the hard truths to the quiet joys of presence.

Links to Websites Discussed:

• Extended Family / Lunch Bunch AA Online
• Real Recovery Podcast

Call to Action:
🎧 Listen now: https://mdcr1.com/57
📖 Read the blog: https://mdcr1.com/57b

Hashtags and Mentions:

#RealRecoveryPodcast #SpiritualAwakening #HiddenAddiction #RecoveryJourney #AuthenticityInRecovery #HighFunctioningAddict #TerminalUniqueness @RealRecoveryPodcast

Presenters: Julie and Peter
Length: 1 hour, 36 minutes

In this heartfelt and transformative episode, Julie and Peter welcome Doyal Smith, Executive Director of Dual Diagnosis Anonymous of Oregon (DDA). Doyal recounts a deeply personal story of trauma, addiction, and the turning point that changed his life forever—sitting alone on a park bench, ready to give up, when he heard a voice say, “If you help people, I’ll help you.”

From that moment forward, Doyal committed his life to service. He shares his experiences navigating incarceration, multiple treatment programs, and ultimately finding his calling in the recovery community. Doyal also reflects on the work of DDA founder Corbett Monica and explains how the organization’s unique “12 Steps Plus Five” model addresses the needs of individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.

The episode dives into the importance of peer support, trauma-informed care, and building inclusive communities. Julie and Doyal connect over their shared experiences with dual diagnosis, making this an episode filled with honesty, insight, and the enduring power of hope.

• 00:00:00 – Introduction and welcome to Doyal Smith
• 00:07:00 – The park bench moment that changed Doyal’s life
• 00:13:00 – Early childhood trauma and growing up in North Portland
• 00:17:00 – First treatment experience and recognizing the grip of addiction
• 00:28:00 – The story of DDA’s creation and the influence of Corbett Monica
• 00:33:00 – Breaking down the “12 Steps Plus Five” and how it supports dual recovery
• 00:38:00 – Peer support, medication-assisted treatment, and the power of community
• 00:46:00 – DDA’s expansion across Oregon and online outreach
• 01:14:00 – Julie shares her journey with dual diagnosis and mental health support
• 01:21:00 – Doyal discusses the magic of rapport and recovery connection
• 01:29:00 – Final thoughts on legacy, leadership, and the future of DDA

"The voice said, ‘If you help people, I’ll help you.’ And I’ve been helping people ever since." — Doyal Smith

• Dual Diagnosis Anonymous of Oregon (DDA)
• Real Recovery Podcast
• Lunch Bunch and Extended Family AA Meeting Info
• Wellbriety Circle Meetings
• Hands Across the Bridge

https://mdcr1.com/56

https://mdcr1.com/56b

#RealRecoveryPodcast #DualDiagnosis #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #PeerSupport #HopeAndHealing #DDA #RealStoriesRealRecovery
@DDAnonymous @ForaHealth @4DRecovery

Presenters: Julie and Peter
Length: 1 hour, 27 minutes

• Crimanon Website: https://crimanon.org/
• Exclusive Interview with Bear (Co-founder of Crimanon): Watch Here
• Harmony Academy: https://www.harmonyacademyrhs.org/
• Another Chance Recovery: https://anotherchancerehab.com/
• Oregon Recovers: https://www.oregonrecovers.org/
• Fora Health: https://forahealth.org/
• NARA (Native American Rehabilitation Association): https://www.naranorthwest.org/

• [00:01:00] – Introduction to Bear and Zane, co-founders of Crimanon, and their mission to address criminal addiction.
• [00:04:30] – Bear’s personal story—his realization of criminal addiction and the early seeds of Crimanon while incarcerated.
• [00:07:45] – Zane’s journey: 57 felonies, 187 arrests, and the turning point that led him to recovery.
• [00:12:30] – The formation of Crimanon’s think tank inside Columbia River Correctional Facility.
• [00:17:15] – The connection between criminal behavior and addiction—why some get a bigger high from crime than substances.
• [00:22:50] – How Crimanon meetings work, the 12-step model, and the importance of community support.
• [00:28:30] – The role of trauma in criminal addiction—childhood experiences, ACEs scores, and the path to healing.
• [00:33:10] – The challenges of re-entering society: barriers to employment, housing, and rebuilding trust.
• [00:39:25] – Expanding Crimanon: the first meetings outside of prison and the struggle to find space.
• [00:44:10] – Success stories: how Crimanon has helped individuals transform their lives.
• [00:49:30] – Plans for the future: returning to prisons, expanding meetings, and advocating for criminal addiction to be recognized in the DSM.
• [00:54:20] – The importance of criminal addiction recovery in breaking cycles of recidivism.
• [01:02:10] – Crimanon’s impact in Portland, Oregon, and its growing influence in recovery communities.
• [01:10:30] – How incarceration can perpetuate criminal addiction and why true rehabilitation requires addressing deeper behavioral patterns.
• [01:17:45] – The power of peer-driven recovery and the role of lived experience in mentoring others.
• [01:24:00] – Closing thoughts: second chances, community support, and the vision for Crimanon’s future.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Bear and Zane, the co-founders of Crimanon, a fellowship focused on helping individuals recover from criminal addiction. They share their raw and eye-opening stories—how years of crime, incarceration, and relapse led them to recognize the deep-seated attachment to criminal behavior itself.

From the formation of Crimanon’s first meetings in prison to the expansion into community spaces, this episode explores the psychology of criminal addiction, the role of trauma, and the steps necessary to break free from the cycle. Bear and Zane discuss the challenges of re-entry, barriers to employment, and the stigma that still exists for those with criminal records.

With powerful insights and real-life experiences, this episode shines a light on a missing piece in the recovery world—how criminal addiction must be addressed alongside substance use.

Recovery is possible, no matter how many times you've been incarcerated. Crimanon is proof that community, mentorship, and accountability can change lives. Whether you’ve been impacted by the criminal justice system or know someone who has, this episode is an essential listen.

#RealRecoveryPodcast #CriminalRecovery #Crimanon #SecondChances #AddictionRecovery #CommunitySupport #BreakingTheCycle #RecoveryJourney

Title: RRP Episode 54.1: Uniting for Recovery – Reflections from Advocacy Day
Presenters: Julie, Peter, and Colette
Release Date: 3/19
Length: 52 minutes, 3 seconds

In this special check-in episode, Julie, Peter, and Colette share their powerful experiences from Advocacy Day in Salem, Oregon. They reflect on what it means to stand up for recovery, the importance of engaging with legislators, and the personal impact of advocating for lasting change. From meeting policymakers to hearing firsthand how addiction recovery services are being shaped, this episode dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of making recovery a priority in Oregon.

They also discuss the reality of treatment access, the crucial role of community support, and the organizations working tirelessly to bridge the gap between addiction and recovery. If you have ever wondered how you can support recovery efforts or get involved in policy advocacy, this episode is for you.

• The significance of Advocacy Day and its impact on recovery efforts in Oregon
• Personal reflections on the experience and why political engagement matters in the recovery community
• The barriers still facing addiction treatment and housing resources
• Insights from legislators and recovery advocates at the event
• How listeners can take action by contacting their representatives and supporting advocacy organizations

• True Colors Recovery – https://www.truecolorsrecovery.org/
• Oregon Recovers – https://www.oregonrecovers.org/
• 4D Recovery – https://4drecovery.org/
• Fora Health Treatment & Recovery – https://forahealth.org/
• The Pathfinder Network – https://www.thepathfindernetwork.org/
• Oregon Recovers Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/oregonrecovers/
• Email Your Legislator - "Finish What We Started" Campaign – https://safeguardrecovery.good.do/oregonrecoversfinishwhatyoustarted/finishit/

Reach out to these organizations and let them know you support their work

• True Colors Recovery: Contact Us | Call: 971-252-1943
• Oregon Recovers:
  • Mike Marshall (Executive Director) – [email protected]
  • Glenn “Bo” Brinson (Event Director) – [email protected]
• 4D Recovery: [email protected]
• Fora Health Treatment & Recovery: Contact Us | Call: (503) 535-1151
• The Pathfinder Network: [email protected]

"If we are going to be number one in addiction, we have to be number one in recovery too." – Colette

Help advocate for stronger recovery resources in Oregon. Email your legislators and urge them to invest in addiction recovery services: https://safeguardrecovery.good.do/oregonrecoversfinishwhatyoustarted/finishit/

https://mdcr1.com/541

https://mdcr1.com/541b

#RecoveryAdvocacy #AddictionRecovery #OregonRecovers #4DRecovery #PathfinderNetwork #ForaHealth #TrueColorsRecovery #RealRecoveryPodcast @OregonRecovers @4DRecovery @TrueColorsRecovery