Real World Recovery

🌟 This Week: No Wasted Experience: Turning Jobs Into Purpose 🌟This week, Brett welcomes Patrick Kae back to the podcast—this time not as a guest, but as a new co-host! As Brett prepares for a big move to Charlotte, Patrick is stepping into a bigger role, and together they reflect on what it means to step into the unknown, take on new challenges, and trust the process.A major theme of this episode is how all those seemingly random life experiences—odd jobs, unexpected pivots, moments that felt disconnected—can eventually reveal themselves to be useful. What once looked like a junk drawer becomes a toolbox for purpose.They discuss:How past roles and jobs helped shape their valuesWhy it’s okay (and necessary) to start before you feel readyHow to reframe uncertainty as opportunityThe importance of continuing to grow in recovery, even when the path isn’t clearWhether you're early in recovery or years into your journey, this conversation is a powerful reminder: No experience is wasted—it just might not make sense until later.🔁 New chapter. New co-host. Same heart.🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@Vivrayllc

#RecoveryPodcast #LifePurpose #NewCoHost #AddictionRecovery #SoberLife #MentalHealthAwareness #NoWastedTime #LifeTransitions #JunkDrawerLife #CollageOfPurpose #KeepGoing #NewBeginnings #PatrickKae #RealWorldRecovery

🌟 This Week: Service, Serenity, & Spaceballs: The Podcast 🌟This week on Real World Recovery, we dive into the topic of service work — what it means, what it can look like, and how there’s no one-size-fits-all version of showing up for others. Whether it’s helping someone in the rooms, being there for a neighbor, or using your unique skills to give back, we talk about how service is personal and doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s version.Mitchell reflects on key takeaways from a recent Safe Communities networking event, and Brett shares why it’s crucial to avoid burnout by staying honest about your limits and taking time to refocus on what matters.There’s also plenty of laughter as we sprinkle in references to memes, classic TV shows, and Spaceballs: The Movie — because balance includes joy, humor, and yes, a little Mel Brooks.🔗 Tune in for real talk, real laughs, and real recovery.🕛 New episodes drop Sundays at noon Central!🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@VivrayllcHashtags:#RealWorldRecovery #ServiceWork #RecoveryCommunity #BurnoutPrevention #AddictionRecovery #RecoverySupport #MentalHealthMatters #Spaceballs #12StepProgram #SobrietyJourney #SafeCommunities #RecoveryPodcast #PeerSupport #RecoveryIsPossible

🌟 This Week: When the Bank Breaks and the Stream Dries Up 🌟This week on Real World Recovery, Mitchell faces an unexpected financial blow after discovering his bank accounts were emptied to cover a debt — even though the money was meant for his next semester of school. Brett and Mitchell talk through the emotional and practical impacts of the situation, and how recovery tools help navigate setbacks like these without spiraling.The conversation also branches into a discussion on the shift away from physical media in music, video games, and movies, the rise of subscription models, and the complicated ethics of streaming and piracy.We close the episode reflecting on the importance of staying hopeful even when things feel overwhelming — and how it’s never too late to chase passions, rebuild, and keep moving forward.🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@Vivrayllc

#RealWorldRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #FinancialRecovery #StudentLife #StreamingCulture #AddictionRecovery #NeverGiveUp #MentalHealthAwareness #Resilience #NewBeginnings

🌟 This Week: Bloviating, Bowling, & A Bookstore 🌟This week on Real World Recovery, Mitchell opens up about the intense pressure he’s been feeling at school and how pushing too hard—especially when exhausted and overwhelmed—can sometimes backfire. We explore how unrealistic expectations and anxiety can fuel a cycle that ultimately makes it harder to succeed, and why sometimes the best thing we can do is take a break, rest, and reset.Brett shares stories from his last week in sober bowling league and a one-of-a-kind experience he had in an airport bookstore that led to some unexpected reflection.This is a lighter, more conversational episode with some laughs, some honesty, and a reminder that recovery includes knowing when to give yourself grace.🧠 Stress, sleep, and self-awareness🎳 Bowling and building community📚 Lessons from an unlikely placeJoin us for another honest and entertaining conversation about real life in recovery.🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@Vivrayllc#RealWorldRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionRecovery #SoberLife #StressRelief #GraceInRecovery #SoberCommunity #PersonalGrowth #RecoveryJourney #CollegeInRecovery #BowlingLeague #LetGoOfPerfection

🌟 This Week: Allergies, Cartoons, & Technology 🌟This week on Real World Recovery, we're keeping it light, loose, and full of laughs. Between both of us battling seasonal allergies, we took a detour into nostalgia and talked about some of our favorite cartoons and TV shows—like Invader Zim, Community, and Parks and Recreation.We also dive into tech, gaming, and the little things that bring us joy in recovery, while still touching on the bigger picture—like our Thursday night meeting and how it keeps us grounded. Toward the end, we reflect on how recovery has helped us grow in surprising ways, including being more open to feedback, learning, and self-awareness.It’s a laid-back episode full of fun, connection, and a few gems of insight. Whether you're here for the recovery talk or the cartoon references, there's something for you in this one.🧼🤧📺🎮New episodes drop every Sunday at noon Central. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who could use a laugh and some real talk.🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@Vivrayllc#RealWorldRecovery #CartoonsAndRecovery #RecoveryCommunity #Podcast #MentalHealth #SeasonalAllergies #InvaderZim #ParksAndRec #OpenToGrowth

🌟 This Week: Missing Parts & Making Meetings 🌟In this week’s episode of Real World Recovery, we kick things off with a story about Mitchell’s car troubles—and how a frustrating situation became a chance to pause, reset, and focus on what really matters. Brett shares how his first week at a new job is going, and we dive into a conversation about one of the most common pitfalls in recovery (and life): the tendency to externalize blame.We explore how easy it is to fall into a cycle of entitlement, where we expect others to solve our problems or make us feel better, and how that mindset can hold us back. Instead, we talk about reclaiming our power by focusing on what we can control and choosing to grow—no matter the circumstances.We also check in on our Thursday night recovery meeting, reflect on how far the group has come, and share some ideas to make it even more impactful. It’s an episode full of practical insight, honest reflection, and community-driven inspiration.🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@Vivrayllc🎧 New episodes every Sunday at noon (CT)#RealWorldRecovery #RecoveryCommunity #PersonalGrowth #NoMoreExcuses #MissingParts #MakingMeetings #OwnYourJourney #RecoveryPodcast #ProgressNotPerfection

🌟 This Week: No Shortcuts in Recovery: The Way Out is Through 🌟This week on Real World Recovery, we’re talking about the tough but necessary process of getting through challenges—without looking for shortcuts. Mitchell shares his experience of fully tapering off opiates and how, despite well-meaning advice from friends, he’s sticking to his plan and seeing it through. We discuss the importance of "playing the tape through" and why short-term discomfort is sometimes necessary to reach long-term success.We also dive into how we used to avoid personal growth by constantly surrounding ourselves with people, our past run-ins with the law (and the value of solid legal representation), and a local Oxford house losing its charter due to a lack of accountability. This sparks a bigger conversation about the need for more sober living spaces and how our actions in recovery shape the public perception of our community.Recovery isn’t just about not using—it’s about giving back, showing up, and proving that we can be productive, engaged members of society. Let’s talk about what that really means.Let’s keep the conversation going!💬 Share your thoughts in the comments—how do you stay committed to the process, even when it’s tough?🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@Vivrayllc

#RealWorldRecovery #NoShortcuts #TheWayOutIsThrough #RecoveryJourney #PlayingTheTapeThrough #SoberLiving #GiveBack #BreakTheStigma #NewEpisode

🌟 This Week: Healing, Hustling & A Handful of Stitches🌟In this week’s episode of Real World Recovery, we’re checking in on Mitchell as he continues tapering off his pain meds—a tough but necessary process. He shares how he’s managing, what strategies are helping, and how recovery has given him the tools to navigate this challenge.Brett also has some big news—he’s starting a new job at the same school Mitchell attends! We discuss what that means, the emotions that come with big life changes, and how new opportunities keep us moving forward.And because no episode is complete without a few detours, we dive into a discussion on climate change and Brett tells a bloody story about the time he had to get stitches in his hand. (Spoiler: It wasn’t pretty. 😬)🎧 New episodes drop Sundays at NOON!💬 How do you handle major life transitions? Let’s talk in the comments!🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@Vivrayllc

#RealWorldRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #TaperingOff #NewJob #HealingAndGrowth #SoberLiving #StayTheCourse #LifeChanges #RecoveryJourney #SundayAtNoon

🌟 This Week: Pancreatitis, Pain Meds & A Plan 🌟In this episode of Real World Recovery, Mitchell shares the wild turn his week took—one minute, he was in math class, and the next, he was admitted to the hospital with pancreatitis. He talks about the reality of facing a serious medical situation in recovery, including being prescribed high-powered pain meds and how he worked proactively with his doctor to ensure a safe and successful plan to taper off.Meanwhile, Brett is gearing up for a major life change—his upcoming move to Charlotte! We discuss what this means for the podcast, future plans for the community, and how we’re keeping things moving forward.This episode is all about adapting to life's unexpected twists, making intentional choices in recovery, and staying connected even when big changes come our way.Join the conversation!💬 Have you had to navigate medical situations in recovery? Share your experience in the comments!🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@Vivrayllc#RealWorldRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #Pancreatitis #PainManagement #SoberLiving #LifeChanges #RecoveryJourney #StayConnected #NewEpisode

🌟 This Week: Bonus Episode | A Conversation with Caroline Beidler🌟In this special bonus episode of Real World Recovery, Brett sits down with author, speaker, and recovery advocate Caroline Beidler, MSW for an inspiring conversation about community, connection, and the power of storytelling in recovery.Caroline shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind her work, and her passion for helping others find recovery in all its forms. We dive into her collaborative Global Recovery Event for International Women’s Day (March 8th)—a groundbreaking initiative bringing people together worldwide, now in its fourth year and happening live on Zoom for the first time!We also discuss:✨ Her lived experience with addiction, mental health, and trauma recovery📖 Writing and working with her mother on her latest book💡 What motivates her as a recovery advocate and leader🏡 Her upcoming book aimed at families and communities to educate and support recovery🤝 The importance of grief, loss, connection, and giving backCaroline’s story is one of resilience, passion, and purpose. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or just looking for inspiration, this conversation is packed with wisdom and heart.📣Tune into the IWD Global Recovery Event Live on Zoom on 📅3/8/25📅 here: https://www.carolinebeidler.com/IWD2025🔗 Learn more about Caroline’s work: https://www.carolinebeidler.com/👉 Follow Caroline on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolinebeidlermsw👉 Follow Caroline on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinebeidler_official/👉 Circle of Chairs Newsletter on Substack: https://carolinebeidler.substack.com/#RealWorldRecovery #CarolineBeidler #GlobalRecoveryEvent #WomensRecovery #InternationalWomensDay #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #CommunityHealing #RecoveryAdvocate #NewEpisode🔗 Join Our Community:👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorldRecovery👉 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWorldRecoveryMedia👉 Join our Discord server: https://discord.gg/2Z3xp4C66J🌐 Connect With Us:Website: https://www.realworldrecovery.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryrealworld/Special thanks to Jaimie Doering & Vivray LLC for the use of the live audio recording of the Clyde Stubblefield Band's performance at the High Noon Saloon in Madison, WI from May 2007. Check out more great live shows on his YouTube channel: YouTube.com/@Vivrayllc