Recovery Talks

Host and executive director, Jim Hajny, speaks with special guest Heidi, a peer supporter, wife, daughter, sister, stepmom, friend, and mother to three girls. Having met Jim through peer support training, Heidi joins the podcast to share her courageous story of mental health recovery.

Join Executive Director Jim Hajny as he welcomes a Lucie Bruno. Lucie is the director of the Strength Found program, which provides crucial support to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). She is also a peer mentor for the Ethical Peer Support (EPS) training, operating out of Ottawa, Canada.

In this essential discussion, Jim and Lucie address why the topic of CSA remains often "taboo," despite its prevalence and widespread impact on individuals' lifetimes, often leading to mental health issues, substance use, and failed relationships. Lucie shares her passion for peer support and details the successful, peer-led Strength Found program.

Erin Olson, CBHPSS at St. Peter's in Helena, MT joins Jim for a discussion of leadership and recovery month activities. He is also the president of NAMI Helena, Vice chair of Lewis and Clark County Local Advisory Council, NAMI Montana Board Member, and CIT trainer.

Misti Johnston, Drop in Center Director at the Butte, MT Rescue Mission sits down with Jim to discuss recovery and more.

Peer leader April Seat shares her mental health struggles in a very candid and honest conversation with Jim.

In this episode of Recovery Talks, Jim Hajny sits down with long-time friend and guest Todd Tecca to discuss how they manage their mental health and stay well during tough times. They reflect on personal experiences with mental health diagnoses, share daily wellness practices, talk about the power of supportive relationships, and highlight the importance of education, routine, and community support. As May is Mental Health Awareness Month, this honest and heartfelt conversation offers valuable insights for anyone on a recovery journey.

In this episode, Jim and April delve into the federal funding freeze executive order issued in January 2025 and its ramifications for grantees and contractors. They discuss how this sudden policy shift has impacted organizations reliant on federal grants, particularly those in Montana's behavioral health and recovery sectors. The conversation sheds light on the challenges faced by nonprofits and service providers amid the freeze, including funding uncertainties and operational disruptions. Listeners will gain insight into the broader implications of federal policy changes on local communities and the importance of advocacy and resilience in navigating such challenges.

In this episode, Jim and April explore the essential skills and qualities necessary to become an effective peer supporter. They discuss the importance of lived experience, active listening, empathy, and maintaining healthy boundaries in peer support roles. The conversation also touches on the training and certification processes, such as Montana's Peer Support 101 program, and the personal and professional growth opportunities that come with supporting others on their recovery journeys. Whether you're considering a role in peer support or seeking to enhance your existing skills, this episode offers valuable insights into the responsibilities and rewards of being a peer supporter.

In this episode, Lawrence Rhone discusses the HIVE Project, an initiative aimed at assisting veterans in northeastern Montana transition into agriculture-related professions. The program offers resiliency training, classroom and field instruction, and connections to regional resources and funding. Listeners will gain insight into how the HIVE Project supports veterans in building sustainable careers in farming and ranching, contributing to both personal recovery and community development.

Farmer Veteran Coalition https://farmvetco.org/

Program Article https://farmvetco.org/2024/07/30/program-to-provide-holistic-approach-skills-to-farming/

Application Form https://qr.mtpeernetwork.org/g/2fFLMEc5uJR

Nikki and Jim provide an update on community organizing which leads to an in depth conversation about recovery language.