The Begin Again Podcast, hosted by Gary Menkes, presents Part 2 of the 2024 Recovery Compilation—featuring extraordinary moments from a year of inspiring conversations. Dive into the transformative journeys of our guests as they share candid experiences of overcoming addiction, trauma, and life’s challenges.

This episode includes highlights from Arlina Allen’s profound insights on spirituality and the 12-Step program, Ruben Palomares’ raw reflections on finding purpose after addiction, and Jenny Leone’s inspiring resilience. Matt Gardiner, Mary Tilson, and TJ Woodward discuss personal transformations, emphasizing mindset shifts, self-love, and the power of connection.

Other guests, like Paul Summers Jr., Kat Lyons, and Mike Diamond, reveal their journeys toward sobriety and inner peace, while Laurie Anderson and Jeanine Coulter share how their unique recovery approaches inspire others. From heartfelt stories of hitting rock bottom to triumphant moments of clarity, these clips showcase the strength of the human spirit.

Join us as we celebrate the victories, challenges, and hope that define recovery. Let these stories inspire and uplift you or someone you love. 🌟

🎧 Listen now and experience the power of transformation!

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In this special episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes revisits some of the most powerful and inspiring moments from this year’s episodes. Part 1 of our annual compilation brings together stories of resilience, recovery, and transformation from a diverse lineup of guests who’ve faced addiction, trauma, and adversity head-on.

This episode features heartfelt clips from incredible individuals, including Michael Conklin, who turned his life around after battling adversity, and Ruben Palomares, whose journey from struggle to strength is nothing short of inspiring. Samantha Lander shares how fitness became a cornerstone of her recovery, while Zac Spowart takes us on his path to self-discovery and sobriety. Janice Johnson and Jenny Leone reveal how they found purpose and healing, and Tony Hoffman’s advocacy shines a light on the power of redemption.

From overcoming personal challenges to embracing new beginnings, each story in this compilation offers a unique perspective on the road to recovery. Whether you’re seeking motivation, hope, or simply a reminder of the strength of the human spirit, this episode has something for everyone.

Tune in for Part 1 of this two-part celebration of resilience, and join us as we honor the remarkable journeys shared throughout the year. Don’t miss Part 2 in Episode 78!

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Description:

In this thought-provoking episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes welcomes recovery coach, author, and founder of Sober Life School, Arlina Allen. With 28 years of sobriety, Arlina shares her incredible journey from addiction to living a life filled with purpose and connection. She opens up about her struggles with alcoholism and how personal experimentation with the 12-step program, combined with self-reflection and spirituality, became the foundation for her recovery.

Arlina discusses her book, "12 Step Guide for Skeptics," and the transformative impact it’s had on readers navigating their own sobriety journeys. She and Gary explore critical barriers like stigma, resistance, and limiting beliefs that often hinder recovery, offering actionable insights for breaking through these obstacles. Arlina highlights the role of empathy, journaling, and therapeutic techniques in healing and building self-esteem, sharing a free resource from her Inner Compass Program to help listeners take the next step toward personal growth.

Whether you're in recovery or seeking tools for self-improvement, this episode provides valuable perspectives on overcoming fear, embracing vulnerability, and rediscovering a meaningful, sober life. Join Gary and Arlina for an inspiring conversation about courage, connection, and the possibility of transformation. 

About Arlina Allen:

Arlina Allen is a certified recovery coach, author, and the founder of Sober Life School. With over 28 years of sobriety, Arlina has dedicated her life to helping others break free from addiction and create lives filled with purpose and joy. Her groundbreaking book, "12 Step Guide for Skeptics", addresses common misconceptions about sobriety programs and offers a compassionate, practical approach to recovery. Through her coaching, podcast, and online resources, Arlina empowers individuals to transform their lives through self-reflection, spirituality, and connection.

Follow Arlina for inspiration and tools for recovery:
Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/ArlinaAllen/
Website: https://www.SoberLifeSchool.com/

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In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Mary Tilson, a certified professional recovery coach, yoga instructor, and founder of Sun and Moon Sober Living. 

Mary shares her deeply personal journey through addiction, the struggles she faced while working in a high-pressure corporate environment, and how alcohol and substance abuse became her way of coping with social anxiety and life’s challenges.

Mary recounts her pivotal moment of transformation—a life-altering backpacking trip through Southeast Asia, where she discovered the healing power of yoga, mindfulness, and connecting with nature. This journey inspired her to leave behind her unfulfilling corporate job and embrace a new path of recovery and wellness. 

Mary also shares the valuable lessons she learned from her mentor, Nikki, who encouraged her to open up about her struggles and build a supportive community for others navigating sobriety.

Throughout the conversation, Gary and Mary reflect on the stigma surrounding addiction, the importance of holistic healing practices, and the power of community in recovery. Whether you’re on your own path to sobriety or supporting a loved one, this episode offers heartfelt insights and practical tools for living a healthier, more fulfilling life.

About Mary Tilson:

Mary Tilson is a certified professional recovery coach, yoga instructor, and the founder of Sun and Moon Sober Living. Drawing from her personal journey through addiction and sobriety, Mary has dedicated her life to helping others find holistic paths to recovery. Her unique approach integrates yoga, mindfulness, and the transformative power of nature, inspiring individuals to embrace a fulfilling and sober lifestyle. Through her retreats, workshops, and coaching, Mary creates a supportive space for healing and growth. She also hosts the Sun and Moon Sober Living Podcast, where she shares stories and tools for sustainable recovery.

Follow Mary’s journey and access her inspiring content:
Instagram: Sun and Moon Sober Living
Website: Sun and Moon Sober Living
Podcast: Sun and Moon Sober Living Podcast

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In this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Matt Gardiner, a former musician turned recovery coach, to discuss Matt’s powerful journey from addiction to a life of purpose and transformation. 

Matt opens up about his early experiences with alcohol, influenced by a culture that glamorized drinking within his family and the music industry. His struggles led to a devastating hospitalization at 27 and years of attempting to moderate his drinking. Matt shares how hitting rock bottom, losing his father to similar struggles, and making a commitment to break the cycle of addiction in his family ultimately drove him toward recovery.

During the conversation, Matt and Gary explore the vital role of mindset shifts and creating new habits in maintaining sobriety. Matt also discusses how he turned the Covid-19 lockdown into a period of self-reflection, which led him to leave his long-term job and pursue his calling as a sobriety coach. 

With heartfelt reflections on his journey and insights on the importance of community, faith, and personal commitment, Matt’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of transformation. Tune in to discover how Matt is helping others find their own path to recovery.

About Matt Gardiner:

Matt Gardiner is a dedicated recovery coach and former musician whose personal journey through addiction has shaped his mission to support others on the path to sobriety. After years of struggling with alcohol, Matt experienced pivotal moments that led him to turn his life around. Now, as the founder of Recovery Roadmap, he empowers individuals to overcome their struggles and embrace new, fulfilling lives. Matt combines personal insights with practical tools, offering guidance through social media and coaching sessions. 

Connect with him on his social platforms to follow his inspiring journey and access valuable resources:

Instagram: Instagram.com/RecoveryRoadmap.Me
Website: Sites.Google.com/View/RecoveryRoadmap-Me/Home
TikTok: TikTok.com/@Matt.AlcoholFree.Coach
Facebook: Facebook.com/MattGardinerLIVE
YouTube: YouTube.com/@MattGardinerLIVE

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In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with TJ Woodward, the visionary behind the Conscious Recovery method, to discuss TJ’s remarkable journey from addiction to becoming a spiritual advisor and recovery expert. TJ shares his deeply personal story of battling addiction, fueled by long-held beliefs of unworthiness and struggles with substance abuse, which ultimately led him to create a transformative approach for others facing similar challenges. Through Conscious Recovery, TJ addresses addiction's root causes, including unresolved trauma, spiritual disconnection, and toxic shame, to help individuals rediscover their inner wholeness and self-worth.

Together, Gary and TJ explore profound topics, such as the link between childhood trauma and addiction, the importance of inner child work, and the power of self-love and spirituality in the healing process. TJ introduces a four-step method to help listeners confront core false beliefs, release negative emotions, and embrace an authentic life aligned with their true selves. This episode is a must-listen for anyone on a journey of recovery, offering invaluable insights and hope for a path to healing and transformation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on personal growth, healing, and the freedom of embracing your true worth.

About TJ Woodward:

TJ Woodward is a renowned spiritual advisor, recovery expert, and creator of the Conscious Recovery method, a groundbreaking approach that addresses the root causes of addiction by healing unresolved trauma, spiritual disconnection, and toxic shame. 

With decades of experience, TJ has empowered countless individuals to reclaim their lives, fostering a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and inner transformation. His compassionate approach to recovery emphasizes the importance of self-love, authenticity, and inner alignment. 

Follow TJ for insights on spirituality and recovery at https://www.TJWoodward.com/ and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TJWoodward_

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Description:

In this deeply moving episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Candice Black to explore her transformative journey from addiction to sobriety. Candice opens up about her early encounters with alcohol and painkillers, rooted in self-esteem struggles and an abusive high school relationship that led to suicide attempts. As she navigated adulthood, Candice found herself trapped in a cycle of substance abuse, which intensified during the isolation of the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite several setbacks, including a DUI that nearly cost her everything, Candice made a life-changing decision to quit drinking in February 2023. Throughout the episode, she shares the profound impact of her recovery, including her journey of self-discovery and the role her daughter played as her "saving grace."

Together, Candice and Gary discuss the importance of spirituality, community, and personal growth in sustaining sobriety, and explore the power of virtual AA meetings, the growing sober-curious movement, and the peace that comes from a healthier lifestyle. Candice’s story offers hope to those struggling with addiction and sheds light on the strength it takes to rebuild a life. Join Gary and Candice as they inspire listeners to embrace change, resilience, and self-compassion. 

About Candice Black:

Candice Black is an inspiring figure in the sobriety and wellness community, known for her powerful journey of overcoming addiction, depression, and self-doubt. Starting from a young age, she faced early struggles with alcohol and painkillers, enduring difficult relationships and personal challenges that intensified during the Covid-19 pandemic. After a life-changing DUI in late 2021, Candice committed to sobriety in early 2023, transforming her life and embracing a healthier path. She credits her journey to spirituality, her supportive community, and her daughter, whom she calls her "saving grace." 

Follow Candice on IG for ongoing inspiration and updates on her journey at @sober_strength88.

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Description:

In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Frank Parisi, a heart transplant survivor, motivational speaker, fitness and mindset coach, and best-selling author, to explore Frank’s remarkable journey from addiction to transformation. Growing up in Little Italy, New York, Frank faced unique challenges that led him into substance abuse at a young age, entangled in a world of organized crime and a turbulent family life. Frank shares the gripping reality of his addiction, its impact on his personal relationships, and the profound struggles he endured in his pursuit of sobriety.

As Gary and Frank discuss their shared experiences with addiction, Frank opens up about the pivotal moments that led him to recovery, including a transformative encounter he attributes to divine intervention. From facing life-threatening health issues—including a rare post-Covid pneumonia and an eventual heart transplant—to building resilience and strength for his family and clients, Frank’s story is one of survival, faith, and hope.

Join this episode for a raw, uplifting conversation as Frank discusses his renewed purpose through Emotion Wellness, the importance of community, and his mission to inspire others toward healing and self-improvement.

About Frank Parisi:

Frank Parisi is a heart transplant survivor, motivational speaker, and best-selling author whose journey through addiction, severe health challenges, and ultimate recovery has inspired countless people. Growing up in Little Italy, New York, Frank faced adversity from a young age, navigating the tough streets and family dynamics, leading him to early struggles with substance abuse. His path to sobriety, personal transformation, and resilience are a testament to his enduring commitment to self-improvement and helping others.

Now a mindset and fitness coach, Frank works passionately to empower others to overcome their own struggles, drawing on his life experiences to offer valuable insights and practical support. His current focus is his wellness venture, Emotion Wellness, where he advocates for innovative approaches to health, including movement-based healing and breathwork.

Frank’s story is a powerful example of endurance, growth, and service. Follow Frank on Instagram and explore his journey further at frank-parisi.com and emotionwellness.com.

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Description:

In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with John “J. Buck” Buckley, who shares his deeply personal journey through addiction, resilience, and self-discovery. Born in Ireland and raised in New York, John opens up about his early life in a middle-class family, the impact of his father’s struggle with alcoholism, and how he unknowingly followed a similar path. From his first encounter with alcohol at 12, through years of substance abuse that affected his health, career, and family, John’s story resonates with anyone who has experienced the grip of addiction.

As John reflects on his turning points, including a critical moment when he made the courageous decision to embrace sobriety, he sheds light on the power of support, spirituality, and the ability to rebuild. Together, Gary and John discuss the journey to recovery, the importance of community, and the lessons learned from their own battles. Tune in for an authentic, heartening conversation that not only explores the depths of addiction but also celebrates the hope and strength needed to begin again.

About John Buckley:

John “J. Buck” Buckley is an entrepreneur and recovery advocate who openly shares his journey through addiction, inspiring others to find their path to sobriety. Originally from Ireland and raised in New York, John’s battle with alcoholism deeply impacted his life, family, and career. Today, he uses his experience to encourage and support others in their struggles, sharing candid insights from his own journey and offering a hand to those reaching out for help.

To connect with John, follow him on Instagram: @jbuckofficial

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Description:

In this inspiring episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with transformation coach Fiona Rooney, who shares her powerful journey from addiction to a fulfilling life in wellness and coaching. Fiona opens up about the challenges of her fast-paced life in her 20s, managing multiple businesses and struggling with mental health. Her addiction and battle with self-worth eventually led her to a dark place, but hitting rock bottom became a turning point. Fiona discusses how she overcame addiction with the support of loved ones, therapy, and community, eventually dedicating herself to helping others transform their lives.

Fiona and Gary explore themes of resilience, the importance of setting boundaries, and the power of inner healing. Fiona shares insights from her wellness journey, emphasizing daily progress, self-compassion, and the commitment to helping others embrace their own paths to recovery. Now a coach and wellness advocate, Fiona combines personal experience and professional expertise to empower clients on their journey to health and self-discovery.

Join this heartfelt conversation filled with lessons on resilience, growth, and the power of community support.

About Fiona Rooney:

Fiona Rooney embodies transformation and resilience. With years of experience as a restaurateur and event planner, Fiona has shifted her focus to wellness, inspired by her personal journey of recovery. Her own path to healing has given her profound insight into both the physical and emotional aspects of wellness, grounding her work in gratitude, faith, and a deep intention to support others.

Fiona’s passion for health and wellness is more than just a career; it’s her life’s calling. She offers a range of wellness services and products, including Regenerative & Functional Medicine in partnership with Health N Wellness RX. Her carefully selected offerings provide essential tools for a healthier lifestyle, designed to support healing and overall well-being.

Her holistic approach encourages others to prioritize wellness and explore their best selves. Fiona’s story is a testament to resilience and renewal, inspiring individuals to embrace their journey to healing and authenticity.

Connect with Fiona on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fiona.rooneyhealth/
Learn more about her work: https://FionaRooneyHealth.com/

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