Stack'n'Days: Sober Journeys from Black, Brown and other voices of color.

You don’t have to be “an alcoholic” to benefit from cutting out alcohol. In this episode Ken Makimsey Middleton talks about how quitting alcohol radically increased the positives in his life, and caused his business to grow exponentially. He also talks about how quitting alcohol has positively impacted his mental clarity, his health and his professional life. 

Ken's Journey with Alcohol

Ray and Ken explore the roots of Ken’s relationship with alcohol. Ken candidly shares how he used alcohol in college as a means to boost his confidence and fit into social circles. This pattern persisted throughout his career in sales, where alcohol was deeply ingrained in the job culture.

The Turning Point in 2017

In a pivotal moment in 2017, Ken decided to depart from his corporate role and embark on an entrepreneurial journey. He made the bold decision to abstain from alcohol for 90 days as he wanted to give his business his best effort. To his surprise, this experiment brought about substantial positive changes in his life, both professionally and personally. The financial gains, mental sharpness, and an enhanced sense of purpose made him reevaluate the role of alcohol in his life.

Creating "Alcohol Is Not Your Friend" and "Bamboozled"

Inspired by his transformative experience, Ken launched the Alcohol Is Not Your Friend publication on Medium. He also penned a book titled Bamboozled: How Alcohol Makes Fools of Us All, combining scientific insights and personal anecdotes to shed light on the adverse effects of alcohol. Ken stresses that his mission is not to enforce abstinence but to empower individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions.

Navigating Corporate Pressure

Ray and Ken address the unique challenges faced by people of color in the corporate world, and about how the pressure to conform to drinking norms can be overwhelming. Ken advocates for increased representation and awareness, urging society to reevaluate its relationship with alcohol and acknowledge its detrimental effects on individuals and communities.

Practical Sobriety Tips

Ken offers practical advice for those contemplating sobriety, suggesting a 90-day challenge. He encourages daily exercise, exploring quit-lit books for education, and pursuing hobbies to fill the void left by alcohol. These activities contribute not only to sobriety but also personal growth and well-being.

Ken’s details

Websites: https://www.dry90.com/

https://thebamboozledbook.com/

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Bamboozled-How-Alcohol-Makes-Fools-ebook/dp/B0C15PM1T8#:~:text=Bamboozled%20is%20a%20transformative%20guide,thing%20holding%20them%20back%20%2D%20alcohol. 

Alcohol is not your friend: https://ainyf.com/ 

IG: @kenmmiddleton

@bamboozledbook

Tiktok: @thekenmmiddleton

Connect with the show

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

Apply to be a guest:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/rsvp-1⁠⁠⁠ 

Instagram and Tiktok: @stackndays 

YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-IqvFJ2SlufC6KuyiztjQ⁠⁠⁠

Resources

⁠⁠⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinreframeapp.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.theluckiestclub.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.aa.org/⁠⁠⁠ 

Add Stack’n’days to your calendar: 

⁠https://id.podcal.app/1668847465.ics⁠

Instructions:

Apple Calendar (iOS): Click “Calendars” > “Add Calendar” > “Add Subscription Calendar,” then provide the URL above Apple Calendar (macOS): File > “New Calendar Subscription,” then provide the URL above. 

Google Calendar: Go to ⁠calendar.google.com⁠ > “Other calendars” > “+” > “From URL,” then provide the URL above

This episode features a compelling and inspiring conversation with recovery coach Caleb Harris. Joining host Ray Donovan Caleb share’s his history of alcohol starting aged 10, feeling too black for the white kids and too white for the black kids, pornography addiction and navigating the difference between spirituality and organized religion. 

Early Introduction to Alcohol

Caleb opens up about his early encounter with alcohol at the tender age of 10, highlighting how it became a coping mechanism for him. As a young black boy, he shares his struggles of not feeling like he fit in anywhere, setting the stage for increased drinking during his formative teenage years and college.

Impact on Relationships and Well-Being

Caleb reflects on the profound impact his alcohol use had on various aspects of his life, from relationships to education and overall well-being. Caleb bravely shares the turning point in his life when he decided to quit drinking on January 2, 2019, emphasizing the importance of taking the recovery process one day at a time.

Faith and Addiction

As the son of a pastor, Caleb explores the challenges of reconciling his faith with the struggles of addiction. He sheds light on the lack of support and understanding within the church regarding addiction and mental health issues within the black community.

Porn Addiction

Caleb started to notice similar patterns in how he treated porn to how he treated alcohol. He saw it as another way of escaping the real world for a fantasy world. 

Recovery Program

Caleb attended a faith based recovery program called Celebrate Recovery by the Church of Nazarene. He said that while it is faith based it was not judgemental in any way.  

Becoming a Recovery Coach

Today, Caleb is a recovery coach and life coach, dedicating his efforts to helping black men navigate their journeys to sobriety and mental well-being. He discusses the significance of community, vulnerability, and self-care in the recovery process, drawing attention to faith-based programs like Celibate Recovery and other resources that provide safe spaces for open and honest conversations.

Tools for Managing Mental Health

Caleb shares the tools he uses in his own life, including prayer, meditation, physical exercise, and positive self-talk, as effective means of managing depression, anxiety, and stress. He encourages black men to break the cycle of silence and seek help when needed.

The Larger Message

Caleb's story illuminates the challenges faced by black men in addressing addiction and mental health issues within the context of their communities and faith. He provides hope and encouragement to those struggling, reminding them that they are not alone and that there is a path to recovery and healing.

Caleb’s details

Instagram: @amannamedcaleb

Website: https://linktr.ee/charr8 

Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Caleb-Harris/author/B079J3PTT3?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

Connect with the show

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

Apply to be a guest:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/rsvp-1⁠⁠⁠ 

Instagram and Tiktok: @stackndays 

YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-IqvFJ2SlufC6KuyiztjQ⁠⁠⁠

Resources

⁠⁠⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinreframeapp.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.theluckiestclub.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.aa.org/⁠⁠⁠ 

Add Stack’n’days to your calendar: 

⁠https://id.podcal.app/1668847465.ics⁠

Instructions:

Apple Calendar (iOS): Click “Calendars” > “Add Calendar” > “Add Subscription Calendar,” then provide the URL above Apple Calendar (macOS): File > “New Calendar Subscription,” then provide the URL above. 

Google Calendar: Go to ⁠calendar.google.com⁠ > “Other calendars” > “+” > “From URL,” then provide the URL above

In this episode of Stack'n'Days, host Ray Donovan sits down with Chris Marshall, a remarkable individual on a transformative journey of sobriety and recovery. Recorded, once again, in Kenya, this conversation delves into Chris's experiences with alcohol, his desire for connections, the challenges he faced as a black man in the recovery community, and the inspiring creation of Sans Bar.

Chris’s First Experience with Alcohol 

Chris opens up about his introduction to alcohol at the age of 16, driven by a desire to fit in with his white friends. Despite initial disgust at the taste, he found a sense of connection through drinking. The conversation explores the rapid escalation of Chris's drinking habits, leading to a DUI and strained relationships.

The First Attempt at Treatment

At 23, Chris sought treatment for the first time but left prematurely, lacking full commitment to sobriety. Recognizing the need for change, he re-entered treatment a few months later, determined to stay sober. This marked the beginning of a journey towards belonging and connection within the recovery community.

Trust and Belonging in Recovery

Chris emphasizes the importance of trust, both in himself and in others, as a crucial element of his recovery journey. He shares insights into the challenges faced as a black man in the recovery community, particularly in Texas. Despite feeling like an outsider, Chris found support from other black individuals in recovery who understood his unique experiences.

The Birth of Sans Bar

In the latter part of the episode, Chris delves into the creation of Sans Bar in 2017, an alcohol-free space that stemmed from his desire to establish a fully accepting environment. Sans Bar was conceived as a space where individuals could be their authentic selves without leaving any part of their identity behind. Chris attributes the inspiration for Sans Bar to the support and love he received from others during his own recovery journey.

Chris’s details:

San’s Bar website: https://www.thesansbar.com/ 

Instagram: @San_bar

Connect with the show

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

Apply to be a guest:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/rsvp-1⁠⁠⁠ 

Instagram and Tiktok: @stackndays 

YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-IqvFJ2SlufC6KuyiztjQ⁠⁠⁠

Resources

⁠⁠⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinreframeapp.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.theluckiestclub.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.aa.org/⁠⁠⁠ 

Add Stack’n’days to your calendar: 

⁠https://id.podcal.app/1668847465.ics⁠

Instructions:

Apple Calendar (iOS): Click “Calendars” > “Add Calendar” > “Add Subscription Calendar,” then provide the URL above Apple Calendar (macOS): File > “New Calendar Subscription,” then provide the URL above. 

Google Calendar: Go to ⁠calendar.google.com⁠ > “Other calendars” > “+” > “From URL,” then provide the URL above

Welcome back to the second part of Joanne's extraordinary journey. In this episode of the Stack’n’Days podcast Joanne continues her chat with Ray. Joanne share’s about getting out of one last harmful relationship, her suicide support organisation and starting a non-alcoholic wine business. 

In part 1, Joanne shared about her childhood, her early experiences with alcohol, her son's death and her eventual sobriety as well as her experiences with several unhealthy relationships. We finished up as she was telling us about opening a BBQ restaurant with her partner at the time.

Navigating Toxic Relationships

Joanne, our resilient guest, takes us through a tumultuous period in her life, entangled in a toxic relationship. Dealing with narcissism, she reflects on the toll it took on her mental health. After two challenging years, she found the strength to walk away from both the relationship and her restaurant.

Choosing Sobriety Amid Turmoil

In the face of the narcissistic storm, Joanne emphasizes her unwavering commitment to sobriety. She reflects on how the memory of past struggles fueled her determination to never let alcohol regain control.

From Loss to Resilience

The aftermath of leaving both the toxic relationship and her restaurant unfolds, leading to a period of negotiation and financial settlements. Joanne finds herself devastated, losing her dream restaurant and moving back to Austin. Yet, from this loss, unexpected opportunities arise, showcasing her resilience.

A Culinary Comeback

Joanne, undeterred by setbacks, finds herself drawn back into the world of barbecue. A chance encounter with a passionate individual eager to pursue a career in barbecue, sparks a collaboration that evolves into a successful partnership named Barb's BQ.

Mental Health Advocacy

Joanne sheds light on the mental health community page she runs called "A Safe Place Inside Your Head," raising awareness about mental health issues, inspired by personal struggles inspired by the tragic loss of her son.

Serial Entrepreneurship

Joanne's journey extends into various realms, showcasing her as a serial entrepreneur. From somatic breathwork coaching and real estate to NLP-certified coaching, she exemplifies a commitment to personal growth and continuous learning.

Zero Proof Champion

A chance encounter with a zero-proof wine sparks Joanne's entry into the alcohol-free beverage business. Leveraging her entrepreneurial spirit, she becomes a champion for zero-proof options, organizing events and introducing others to the world of non-alcoholic alternatives.

Sobriety as the Cornerstone

Joanne attributes her myriad successes to her sobriety. The blessings that continue to unfold serve as a testament to her unwavering commitment to a sober lifestyle. Her openness about mental health struggles becomes a powerful tool for self-expression and connection.

Joanne’s details:

Instagram

Personal: @therealjoirizarry

NA wines: @zeroproofpopupbottleshop 

Mental health page: @asafeplaceinsideyourhead 

Connect with the show

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

Apply to be a guest:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/rsvp-1⁠⁠⁠ 

Instagram and Tiktok: @stackndays 

YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-IqvFJ2SlufC6KuyiztjQ⁠⁠⁠

Resources

⁠⁠⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinreframeapp.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.theluckiestclub.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.aa.org/⁠⁠⁠ 

Add Stack’n’days to your calendar: 

⁠https://id.podcal.app/1668847465.ics⁠

Instructions:

Apple Calendar (iOS): Click “Calendars” > “Add Calendar” > “Add Subscription Calendar,” then provide the URL above Apple Calendar (macOS): File > “New Calendar Subscription,” then provide the URL above. 

Google Calendar: Go to ⁠calendar.google.com⁠ > “Other calendars” > “+” > “From URL,” then provide the URL above

Welcome to Stack'n'Days, the podcast that illuminates experiences of sobriety within the BIPOC community. In this special episode, the host, Ray Donovan, is recording in Lamu, Kenya, joined by guest Joanne. 

This is part 1 of a 2 part series with Joanne. This episode provides an in-depth exploration of Joanne's journey with alcohol—navigating trauma, abusive relationships, and the profound impact on personal and professional aspects of her life. 

Joanne's Journey Unveiled

Joanne opens up about her relationship with alcohol, tracing it back to her first drink at a church event during her teenage years. She candidly shares the challenges she faced after her family moved from New York to Texas for religious reasons, expressing feelings of unsafety and trauma. Joanne also delves into the instability brought about by her parents' divorce and her mother leaving the family.

Culinary Pursuits and Escalating Issues

Relocating to Austin, Texas, for culinary school did not mark the end of Joanne's struggles. Working as a personal chef for football players, her drinking persisted, and she felt increasingly powerless. Her son faced similar challenges with drugs and alcohol.

Desperate Measures and Turning Points

Desperation led Joanne to attend AA meetings, but she found it challenging to connect with the community. The fear of intervention, triggered by watching the show "Intervention," added to her apprehension. Months later, Joanne faced the consequences of her actions when she received her first DWI (Driving While Intoxicated).

Descent into Chaos

Joanne finds herself entangled in the legal consequences of her drinking. Facing not one but two DWIs, Joanne is forced to spend three days in jail, grappling with fear and uncertainty. The impact of her actions starts to unfold as she navigates the legal system, confronting the reality of probation and the challenges that lie ahead.

Tragedy Strikes

Amidst the chaos, a tragic turn of events shakes Joanne to her core. The podcast delves into the heartbreaking moment when Joanne receives news of her son's death while she's in jail. The emotional turmoil and shock of losing her son add a new layer to Joanne's struggle, reshaping her perspective and further intensifying her commitment to sobriety.

Navigating Grief and Sobriety

Joanne speaks about coping with grief. As she confronts the complexities of loss, Joanne grapples with the temptation to numb her pain with alcohol, a familiar coping mechanism that had once dominated her life.

From Rock Bottom to Resilience

Joanne discusses her rock-bottom moments, including the challenges of probation and having an ankle monitor. Joanne's resilience shines through as she shares the profound realization that she needed to stop drinking to rebuild her life. Joanne went through detox, rehab, and a transformative experience that alters her perspective on spirituality and recovery.

Building a New Chapter

Against all odds, Joanne and her partner embark on the ambitious journey of opening a barbecue restaurant. The challenges of venturing into an unfamiliar field, coupled with their commitment to sobriety, make for a captivating tale of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of a brighter future.

Part 2 of Joanne’s story will be out next Wednesday 27th December at 5am. Subscribe to the Stack’n’Days podcast so you don’t miss it.  

Joanne’s details:

Instagram

Personal: @therealjoirizarry

NA wines: @zeroproofpopupbottleshop 

Mental health page: @asafeplaceinsideyourhead 

Connect with the show

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

Apply to be a guest:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/rsvp-1⁠⁠⁠ 

Instagram and Tiktok: @stackndays 

YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-IqvFJ2SlufC6KuyiztjQ⁠⁠⁠

Resources

⁠⁠⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinreframeapp.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.theluckiestclub.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.aa.org/⁠⁠⁠ 

In this episode of Stack'n'Days, host Ray Donovan engages in a profound conversation with Stephanie, co-host of the So What Are You Reading? podcast. The focus is on Stephanie's journey through sobriety, motherhood and the culture around alcohol. Join us as Stephanie candidly shares her experiences, offering insights into her transformation and the positive impact sobriety has had on her life.

Stephanie's journey illuminates the transformative power of sobriety within BIPOC communities. Her narrative serves as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging others to seek support, adopt healthy coping mechanisms, and pursue activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Join us in this empowering episode of Stack'n'Days, where real stories pave the way for positive change.

Mommy Wine Culture 

Stephanie begins by narrating her relationship with alcohol, which burgeoned later in life, especially after becoming a parent. She delves into the influence of the pervasive "mommy wine culture" and how she initially used alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress and self-reward. The discussion unfolds around the realization that her drinking was impinging on her ability to be the mother she aspired to be.

Pivotal Moments in Becoming Sober 

Stephanie shares two pivotal moments that propelled her towards change. The first, a post-graduation night of heavy drinking, left her with a hazy memory and a profound sense of regret. The second, a debilitating hangover on New Year's Day, served as a wake-up call, prompting her to acknowledge the unsustainable nature of her lifestyle.

Tools and Strategies for Sobriety

The conversation shifts to the tools and strategies Stephanie employed on her sobriety journey. She found solace in online communities, like the Sober Cafe Facebook group, fostering connections with others on similar paths. Social media, particularly Instagram, became a source of inspiration and motivation. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of engaging in joyous non-alcoholic activities, from puzzles to ballet, that contribute to a fulfilling, alcohol-free life.

Navigating Social Challenges

Addressing the challenges of sobriety in social situations, especially in the alcohol-centric restaurant industry where she works, Stephanie recounts her experiences. Supportive colleagues and friends have played a pivotal role, respecting her sobriety without applying pressure. She says she safeguards herself from situations or individuals that could jeopardize her commitment to sobriety.

Sobriety as a Parent

As a mother, Stephanie reflects on how sobriety has transformed her parenting journey. Being present and reliable for her son, she now creates lasting memories and experiences, showcasing the profound impact sobriety has had on her family life.

So What Are You Reading? Podcast

The episode concludes with an exploration of Stephanie's own podcast, So What Are You Reading? that she hosts with her best friend. Here, she dives into her passion for reading and how the podcast serves as a platform for connecting with fellow book enthusiasts. She invites any listeners who enjoy reading to listen and apply to be a guest if they would like to.

Stephanie’s details

Podcast: So What Are You Reading Podcast

Instagram: @Sowhatareyoureadingpodcast 

Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1020206025264629 

Apply to be a guest: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1YY_pdHk3xXSdmro6CfXGMvsxcsMkmsp8iKi5z9QGtsM/viewform?edit_requested=true 

Connect with the show

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

Apply to be a guest:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/rsvp-1⁠⁠⁠ 

Instagram and Tiktok: @stackndays 

YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-IqvFJ2SlufC6KuyiztjQ⁠⁠⁠

Resources

⁠⁠⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinreframeapp.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.theluckiestclub.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.aa.org/⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Stack'n'Days, host Ray Donovan sits down with Brandon Jackson to explore his transformative journey from early exposure to alcohol to the creation of the Recovery Road online community and Santana's Foundation. Brandon opens up about the challenges he faced, detailing the downward spiral into addiction and the profound impact it had on his life. The conversation delves into the pivotal moments that led Brandon to rock bottom and how he found a path to recovery.

Brandon particularly highlights the systemic inequality that shaped his journey with alcohol, which is exemplary of a lot of people’s experience in the US.  

Early Exposure to Alcohol

Brandon reflects on his early encounters with alcohol and how they shaped his relationship with it as he grew older. The discussion emphasizes the lasting impact of such exposures on one's relationship with substances in adulthood.

The narrative unfolds as Brandon shares insights into his life in Southwest Atlanta, providing context for the challenges and influences that shaped his experiences with addiction.

Brandon talks about living in different disadvantaged areas of the US and the impact living in these areas had on his alcohol use. He mentions the difficulty trying to buy vegetables when he lived in DC, which involved 3 buses and 3 trains, as opposed to the availability of alcohol as he had two liquor stores a short walk away from his home.  

Reaching Rock Bottom

A turning point in Brandon's journey, reaching rock bottom becomes a powerful moment that prompts him to seek help and make positive changes in his life.

Brandon discusses the importance of transparency in the recovery process, highlighting the role of openness and self-reflection in personal growth and healing.

Creating the Recovery Road Space

Brandon and Ray discuss the inception of the Recovery Road online Reddit community, a space Brandon created to provide support and resources for individuals navigating the challenges of recovery.

Transition to Santana's Foundation

The conversation shifts to Santana's Foundation, an organization founded by Brandon to extend support and resources to those in need. The episode explores the foundation's mission and impact.

Collaboration with the Universe

Brandon shares insights into his philosophy of collaboration with the universe, discussing how recognizing this collaboration can shape one's journey towards recovery and personal growth.

The discussion delves into the profound meaning of happiness for Brandon, emphasizing the importance of gratitude, patience, and connections with the community.

Taking the First Step in the Healing Process

Brandon identifies the crucial first step in the healing process for him – awareness. Brandon shares his insights into recognizing the need for change and embarking on the journey towards recovery.

Acknowledging that mental health is a deeply personal journey, the episode emphasizes the significance of respecting and understanding each individual's unique experience.

Brandon’s details

@bandonbehappy

@Santanasfund

https://www.santanasfoundation.org/ 

Connect with the show

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

Apply to be a guest:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/rsvp-1⁠⁠⁠ 

Instagram and Tiktok: @stackndays 

YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-IqvFJ2SlufC6KuyiztjQ⁠⁠⁠

Resources

⁠⁠⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinreframeapp.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.theluckiestclub.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.aa.org/⁠⁠⁠ 

Add Stack’n’days to your calendar: 

⁠https://id.podcal.app/1668847465.ics⁠

Instructions:

Apple Calendar (iOS): Click “Calendars” > “Add Calendar” > “Add Subscription Calendar,” then provide the URL above Apple Calendar (macOS): File > “New Calendar Subscription,” then provide the URL above. 

Google Calendar: Go to ⁠calendar.google.com⁠ > “Other calendars” > “+” > “From URL,” then provide the URL above

Host Ray Donovan engages in a profound conversation with Daryl Palmer, a 43-year-old from Arlington, Virginia, who bravely shares his tumultuous journey through addiction and the path to sobriety.

The Normalization of Alcohol

Daryl unveils the roots of his struggles, recounting how alcohol was normalized in his family and community from a young age. The episode delves into his teenage years, where he found solace, freedom, and false confidence in alcohol. This initial experimentation evolved into a coping mechanism for anxieties and insecurities, coupled with brief encounters with marijuana and other drugs.

Escalation: From Alcohol to Opioids

The narrative takes a darker turn as Daryl recounts the escalation of his addiction when introduced to opioids, specifically Percocet and Vicodin. He vividly describes the intense highs and the transient escape these substances provided, propelling him into a devastating spiral of addiction, legal troubles, and multiple cycles of detox and rehabilitation.

Rock Bottom and Redemption

In a pivotal moment in 2015, Daryl found himself at rock bottom—found unconscious in his car and subsequently arrested. Behind bars, a counselor introduced him to Drug Court, a program offering intensive therapy and life skills classes. Daryl seized this as an opportunity for redemption, committing wholeheartedly to turning his life around.

The Role of Therapy and Self-Honesty

Daryl emphasizes the pivotal role of therapy in his recovery journey, unraveling the layers of trauma and neglect that fueled his addiction. He underscores the importance of self-honesty as a foundation for sustainable progress, shedding light on the transformative power of confronting one's own demons.

Rebuilding Relationships and Trust

Navigating the challenges of rebuilding relationships, particularly with his children, Daryl shares insights into the significance of consistency and vulnerability. He acknowledges the time and patience required to rebuild trust, recognizing the impact of his past actions on his family.

Daryl's wife has been a pillar of support throughout his recovery, engaging in therapy and personal growth alongside him. Together, they strengthened their bond as they worked on their individual personal growth.

Connect with Daryl

IG and Tiktok: progession_365 

Facebook: Daryl Palmer - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079289862640 

Connect with the show

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

Apply to be a guest:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/rsvp-1⁠⁠⁠ 

Instagram and Tiktok: @stackndays 

YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-IqvFJ2SlufC6KuyiztjQ⁠⁠⁠

Resources

⁠⁠⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinreframeapp.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.theluckiestclub.com/⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠https://www.aa.org/⁠⁠⁠ 

Add Stack’n’days to your calendar: 

⁠https://id.podcal.app/1668847465.ics⁠

Instructions:

Apple Calendar (iOS): Click “Calendars” > “Add Calendar” > “Add Subscription Calendar,” then provide the URL above Apple Calendar (macOS): File > “New Calendar Subscription,” then provide the URL above. 

Google Calendar: Go to ⁠calendar.google.com⁠ > “Other calendars” > “+” > “From URL,” then provide the URL above

Welcome to another empowering episode of Stack'n'Days, the podcast that delves deep into the sobriety experience within BIPOC communities. In today's installment, your host, Ray Donovan, engages in a candid conversation with Eddie Randle, a journalist and news anchor. Eddie unveils his journey through sobriety and the profound impact it has had on his life.

Childhood issues leading to addiction 

Eddie takes us back to his teenage years in rural Texas, sharing the early signs of his battle with alcohol and drug addiction. He recounts how food was his original addiction and he was overweight as a child. He used substances as an escape mechanism, attempting to blend in with his peers. The podcast sheds light on the challenges Eddie faced in reconciling his sexuality with the conservative Christian values prevalent in his household.

A wake-up call on live TV

One of Eddie’s rock bottoms was a dramatic incident – a car crash while intoxicated on live television. This event triggered a suspension from his job and a stark realization that his drinking is not only harming himself but also those around him. Eddie reflects on the fear and anger that gripped him during this tumultuous period, emphasizing the pivotal role played by his therapist and supportive friends.

Embracing sobriety

Eddie's path to sobriety commenced with 12-step meetings and therapy sessions. He highlights the necessity of addressing underlying issues, such as childhood trauma and feelings of inadequacy, as fundamental to his recovery. The podcast underscores the significance of acceptance and forgiveness in Eddie's journey, both towards himself and his family.

Impact on relationships and career

Throughout the episode, Eddie shares insights into how sobriety has transformed his relationships and career. By openly discussing his recovery, he has created connections with others and provided a platform for individuals to share their own sobriety stories. Eddie reflects on the ongoing challenges of maintaining sobriety and the crucial role of routine and self-care in his daily life.

Resilience, growth, and acceptance

Eddie Randle's story epitomizes resilience, growth, and finding acceptance through sobriety. His experiences serve as an inspiration, particularly within the BIPOC community, highlighting the significance of support, self-reflection, and embracing one's authentic self on the path to recovery.

Eddie’s details:

Facebook: Eddie Randle

Instagram: @myzeroprooflife

X: @eddierandle 

Email: [email protected]

Connect with the show

Website: ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/⁠⁠ 

Apply to be a guest: ⁠⁠https://www.stackndays.com/rsvp-1⁠⁠ 

Instagram and Tiktok: @stackndays 

YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-IqvFJ2SlufC6KuyiztjQ⁠⁠

Resources

⁠⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠https://www.joinreframeapp.com/⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠https://www.theluckiestclub.com/⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠https://www.aa.org/⁠⁠ 

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