Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 48 | Robin Clare shares her powerful story of overcoming a lifelong struggle with food addiction and bulimia. Starting from childhood humiliation, she details her transformative path through spiritual healing and professional development. An author and recovery coach, Robyn discusses her work at CCAR, her books, and how she's using writing as a therapeutic tool in recovery. Joined by hosts Phil and Sandy, they explore the nuances of recovery, the importance of spiritual guidance, and the value of self-acceptance.

00:00 Introduction and Small Talk

00:31 Phil's Recovery Journey

01:34 Introducing Robin and Her Story

02:08 Robin's Struggles and Turning Point

04:38 Path to Recovery and Spiritual Guidance

06:17 Writing as a Tool for Recovery

14:47 Corporate America and Spiritual Awakening

21:12 Spiritual Gifts and Divine Encounters

32:53 Reflecting on Spiritual Guidance

33:56 Phil's Journey of Recovery

36:32 Sandy's Relationship with Food

38:36 Mindfulness and Self-Care

41:02 Healing and Acceptance

47:58 The Power of Spiritual Experiences

51:08 Integrating Spirituality into Daily Life

01:03:33 Writing and Recovery

01:05:40 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

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Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 47 | Hosts Phil and Sandy Valentine share deeply personal stories about their college experiences and the challenges they faced with addiction. They explore the impact of alcohol and substance use on their academic and personal lives, addressing issues like anxiety, guilt, and shame. The discussion highlights the importance of creating recovery-friendly environments on college campuses and promoting a lifestyle that prioritizes mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. They emphasize the need for honest conversations about drug use, recovery support systems, and the role of spirituality in healing. Sandy also touches on her recent efforts to integrate recovery support services at the University of Connecticut. The episode concludes with a plea for more responsible social media behavior to help destigmatize recovery and addiction.

00:00 Introduction to Recovery Matters Podcast

00:26 Reflecting on College Days

01:19 Struggles and Guilt in College

04:52 Social Anxiety and College Life

07:44 The Impact of Alcohol and Drugs

12:27 Academic Challenges and Probation

14:02 A Lifelong Struggle with Addiction

23:54 Redemption and New Beginnings

29:46 Returning to Academia

31:15 Navigating Academic Anxiety

33:07 Understanding Collegiate Recovery

34:52 Challenges of a Recovery-Hostile Environment

39:23 Promoting a Sober Lifestyle

51:07 Creating a Recovery-Friendly Campus

56:43 Final Thoughts and Reflections

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

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🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 46 | Dominic opens up about his early struggles with authority, his experiences growing up with a father and brother who both faced severe health issues, and his own descent into addiction, which left him homeless for five years. He recalls his transformative moment of clarity, leading him to Teen Challenge and eventually the Salvation Army in Hartford, CT where he began to rebuild his life. Dominic speaks candidly about the challenges he faced in early recovery, the importance of a supportive community, and how his faith and continuous self-improvement played pivotal roles in his journey. Through perseverance and dedication, Dominic now works as a Department of Corrections recovery coach and collaborates with the Manchester Police Department, helping others find their path to recovery. His story is an inspiring testament to the power of hope, resilience, and the importance of treating addiction with compassion.

00:00 Introduction to Recovery Matters Podcast

00:27 Hosts' Lighthearted Banter

01:35 Introducing Today's Guest: Dominic

02:57 Dominic's Role at CCAR

04:02 Early Life and Family Struggles

11:57 Adolescent Challenges and First Encounters with Addiction

15:14 Friendships and Losses

27:45 Homelessness and Struggles with Addiction

38:37 Exploring Homeless Communities

39:39 Walking Through Memories

40:24 Revisiting Springfield

41:46 Teen Challenge Journey

45:19 Salvation Army Experience

51:42 Finding a New Path

56:02 Discovering Recovery Coaching

01:14:19 Faith and Recovery

01:16:34 Conclusion and Reflections

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/

🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery

📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery

🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 45 | Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 45 | Herb Boyd’s story is a powerful testament to overcoming addiction, incarceration, and adversity. A member of the Mashantucket Pequot tribe, Herb was given the tribal name "Half Crow" after surviving severe medical challenges at birth. Raised in New York City, he navigated the struggles of a broken home, a military career filled with highs and lows, and more than 20 years behind bars. Through recovery, he transformed his life, becoming an emergency department recovery coach dedicated to helping others. Herb reflects on mentors, including Art, his tribal heritage, and spiritual growth through the Bible and traditional teachings. His journey highlights unlearning destructive behaviors, embracing recovery, and rebuilding family bonds, while honoring the lessons of his Native American roots.

00:00 Welcome to Recovery Matters Podcast

00:27 Phil and Sandy's Florida Adventure

01:11 Meet Herb Half Crow Boyd

02:12 Herb's Early Life and Challenges

03:08 Herb's Connection with Phil and Art

04:58 Family and Recovery

07:30 Growing Up in New York City

17:31 Joining the Military

20:36 Life in the Marine Corps

31:53 Struggles with Addiction

39:47 Emotional Reflections on Fatherhood

40:25 Reconnecting with Family

42:25 Spiritual Guidance and Recovery

49:25 Blending Cultural and Spiritual Teachings

50:46 A Journey Through Work and Incarceration

01:09:08 Finding Purpose in Recovery Coaching

01:16:02 Concluding Thoughts and Future Aspirations

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTok

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🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/

🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery

📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery

🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 44 | Greg Williams, a dedicated recovery advocate and filmmaker, shares his personal journey from early substance use, battles with addiction, and the pivotal moments that led him to recovery. He discusses the challenges of being a young person in recovery, his advocacy for better healthcare systems, and his work on influential films like 'The Anonymous People' and 'Generation Found.' This conversation delves into the personal and systemic battles in the fight against addiction and the road to wellness.

00:00 Welcome to Recovery Matters

00:34 Introducing Greg Williams

01:44 Greg's Early Life and Struggles

08:02 The Turning Point

17:03 College and Recovery

25:27 Advocacy and Systemic Change

39:29 The Impact of Addiction and Recovery

39:40 Personal Loss and Advocacy

43:07 Challenges in the Healthcare System

46:52 The Anonymous People: Inspiration and Journey

51:16 Creating Change Through Film

01:02:34 Balancing Family and Advocacy

01:12:08 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/

🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery

📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery

🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 43 | Scott Strode, the executive director and founder of The Phoenix, shares his tumultuous journey from a youth spent in Pennsylvania between an alcoholic father and a hardworking mother to becoming an individual deeply involved in substance use recovery. He recounts his experiences working on ships, his struggles with alcoholism, and his eventual turn towards physical fitness as a pathway to recovery. Through ice climbing, boxing, and triathlons, Scott discovered the power of community and supportive connections. His personal transformation led to the founding of The Phoenix, a sober active community that uses athletic and social activities to foster recovery support. The discussion highlights the impact of creating a free, supportive environment where people in recovery can thrive, and Scott offers insights into normalizing recovery and the expansive growth of The Phoenix nationally.

00:00 Introduction to Recovery Matters Podcast

00:26 Sandy's Unfortunate Circumstances

02:04 Introducing Scott Strode

03:05 Scott's Early Life and Family

11:03 Scott's Adolescence and Rebellion

14:46 Life Lessons at Sea

23:30 Journey to Sobriety

30:36 Personal Reflections on Fun and Recovery

31:55 The Thrill of Climbing and Personal Growth

33:58 Outdoor Adventures and Connection with Nature

41:19 The Phoenix: A Journey of Recovery and Community

48:15 Expanding the Phoenix Movement

53:59 Promoting Recovery and Eliminating Stigma

58:55 Personal Stories and Final Thoughts

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/

🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery

📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery

🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 42 | Don, who has been in long-term recovery from alcoholism since 1983, shares his poignant personal story, from his early days in radio and his rock band 'The Crayons,' to his extensive career with Subway, and his transformative experience on the TV show 'Undercover Boss.' He recalls how his disclosure of his recovery journey on national TV inspired viewers such as Harold Andrew, illustrating the profound impact of sharing recovery stories. The discussion delves into the power of music as a recovery tool and explores Don's current involvement with 'The Phoenix,' an organization promoting sober, active communities.

00:00 Welcome to Recovery Matters

01:14 Meet Don Fertman: Radio Days and Recovery

03:33 Musical Memories and Personal Stories

15:24 The Healing Power of Music

24:47 Spiritual Connections Through Music

28:55 The Power of Music in Recovery

29:45 Personal Reflections on Music and Emotions

31:27 Music and Recovery: A Personal Journey

33:27 Rediscovering Music in Sobriety

35:43 The Role of Music in Recovery Communities

41:23 The Impact of Sharing Recovery Stories

44:24 Undercover Boss and the Ripple Effect

01:03:55 The Phoenix: Connecting Through Physical and Virtual Programs

01:08:09 Reflections on Recovery and Gratitude

01:08:50 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTok

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🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/

🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery

📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery

🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 41 | Zach shares his story of growing up in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, and how his life transformed from enjoying various hobbies to struggling with addiction. Starting with marijuana and alcohol in college, his substance use escalated to opiates and heroin, leading to several legal troubles and a stint in rehab. Zach recounts his path to recovery, including pivotal moments, the role of his family, his experience with different treatment methods, and the importance of community support.

00:00 Welcome to Recovery Matters Podcast

01:38 Introducing Zach: A Journey Begins

03:11 Growing Up in Old Saybrook

05:27 High School Days and Punk Rock Influence

08:17 Discovering Straight Edge

23:18 College Life and First Encounters with Drugs

33:10 Cannabis and Mental Health

34:12 Heroin Addiction and Recovery

35:43 Struggles with Prescription Drugs

40:24 Turning Point and Seeking Help

44:16 Entering Rehab and Early Recovery

47:33 Working in Recovery

49:26 Joining CCAR and Career Growth

01:03:18 Impact of COVID on Recovery

01:05:57 Success Stories and Reflections

01:08:03 Life Beyond Recovery

01:10:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/

🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery

📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery

🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 40 |  Brian shares his powerful story of overcoming addiction and legal troubles to become a recovery coach manager for the Department of Corrections program with CCAR. Brian's narrative touches on his early life, emotional struggles, and his battle with alcoholism that led to professional and personal downfall, including embezzlement and incarceration. After a profound moment of self-reflection, Brian sought help and turned his life around. His journey through recovery, bolstered by immense support from his family and the 12-step community, led him to a career helping others in similar situations. Brian’s story is a testament to resilience, the importance of vulnerability, and the transformative power of recovery.

00:00 Introduction to Recovery Matters Podcast

00:27 Hosts' Personal Updates and Vacation Plans

00:43 Phil's Recovery Journey and Sugar Addiction

02:02 Story Slams and Guest Introduction

02:25 Brian McManus: Background and Early Life

08:49 Brian's Family and Upbringing

23:07 High School and College Experiences

32:07 Law School and Early Career

38:45 Deciding to Go Solo

39:38 The Downward Spiral Begins

40:25 Family Ultimatums and Relapses

41:29 Professional Failures and Ethical Breaches

44:48 Hitting Rock Bottom

48:39 A Glimmer of Hope

49:07 Seeking Help and Legal Consequences

55:12 Prison and Recovery

01:01:01 Rebuilding Life Post-Prison

01:07:11 Challenges and Triumphs in Recovery

01:16:49 Current Role and Reflections

01:26:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTok

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🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/

🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery

📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery

🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 39 | Phil and Sandy engage in a conversation with Kevin, the program coordinator for the Ocean Recovery Community Alliance (ORCA). They explore Kevin's journey in recovery, his passion for surfing, and his involvement in environmental cleanups. The discussion highlights the transformative power of engaging with nature, the sense of community fostered through ORCA events, and the personal and collective impact of these initiatives. Kevin shares his experiences of organizing cleanups, the significance of removing environmental wreckage, and the intersection of his recovery journey with his love for the ocean. He gives insight into the planning and execution of ORCA events, the importance of sustainable practices, and the overwhelming support received from the community.

00:00 Welcome to Recovery Matters Podcast

00:27 Parenting Challenges and Trash Talk

01:40 Discovering a Passion for Beach Cleanups

03:01 Water Bottles and Environmental Practices

04:30 The ORCA Adventure Begins

10:01 Surfing Stories and Community

18:15 Surfing and Recovery: A Personal Journey

20:44 Finding Peace in Insignificance

21:27 Recovery and New Hobbies

22:49 Reconnecting with Friends

23:50 Ocean Recovery Community Alliance

28:06 The Joy of Cleaning Up

35:25 Getting Involved with ORCA

42:00 Personal Transformation Through Service

43:50 Looking Ahead

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters Podcast TikTok

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🗣Recovery Matters Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/

🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery

📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery

🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery