This episode takes us somewhere a little different! Eric gives us an inside look at 1516 Heritage Lighthouse, taking us on a tour of the property and sharing his vision for what could become an exciting new recovery house.Eric talks about the plans for the space, what recovery housing can provide for people rebuilding their lives, and the possibilities for creating a safe, supportive environment where people can find stability, community, and a fresh start.Come along for the tour and hear more about the future of recovery housing and what we're working toward at Samaritan Way.Hosts: Joe HekkemaProducer and Editor: Lucas VisscherErics Info: / https://www.facebook.com/Eric231bakerhttps://www.youtube.com/@UCcdujk6QEB2zs-VECK0e0Jw Want to be a guest on the podcast? Fill out this form to apply: https://forms.gle/tBsC5rcZNSLPB722A👉 Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery

This week, Joe and Eric are joined by DEA Agent Derek Ress for a fascinating and honest conversation about drug trafficking, law enforcement, and recovery.Derek shares stories and experiences from his time as a DEA agent, giving us a look into the realities of working in drug enforcement. We also talk about the growing role of technology in drug trafficking, how the landscape of addiction and drugs continues to change, and what he's seen throughout his career.But this conversation isn't just about law enforcement. Derek also shares an important message of encouragement and hope for people who are currently struggling with substance use. No matter where you are in your journey, there is always an opportunity to make a change and move toward something better.It's an eye-opening conversation about the realities of drug trafficking, the challenges facing our communities, and the importance of never giving up on people.www.dea.gov/fentanylfreewww.dea.gov/onepillwww.justthinktwice.govhttps://operationprevention.discoveryeducation.comHosts: Joe Hekkema and Eric BakerGuest: Derek RessProducer and Editor: Lucas VisscherJoe's Info: / https://www.facebook.com/joe.hekkema.31Erics Info: / https://www.facebook.com/Eric231bakerWant to be a guest on the podcast? Fill out this form to apply: https://forms.gle/tBsC5rcZNSLPB722A👉 Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery

This week, Joe and Eric are replaced by Angela and Michelle as they chat with guests Erin and Amanda from Every Woman’s Place. They discuss supporting women through recovery and the resources available to women in our community.Erin and Amanda share more about Every Woman’s Place, the work they do, and how their own personal and professional experiences have equipped them to walk alongside women facing difficult seasons in their lives. We talk about the unique challenges women can experience in recovery, the importance of having safe and supportive spaces, and how lived experience can help us better understand and serve others.Hosts: Angela Bezotte and Michelle WhiteGuest: Erin and AmandaProducer and Editor: Lucas VisscherWant to be a guest on the podcast? Fill out this form to apply: https://forms.gle/tBsC5rcZNSLPB722A👉 Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery

In this episode, Joe and Eric sit down with Jason Carlson, a Parole Supervisor, for an honest and insightful conversation about parole, recovery, and life after incarceration.Jason opens up about his own recovery journey and shares what he's learned through both personal experience and his work in the parole system. We talk about the challenges people face while navigating parole, the importance of accountability and support, and what it takes to build a different life in recovery.And because recovery is about discovering new passions and finding healthy ways to enjoy life, Jason also shares his love of bird photography and how that hobby has become part of his journey.It's a conversation about second chances, purpose, recovery, and the people who help make change possible.Hosts: Joe Hekkema and Eric BakerGuest: Jason CarlsonProducer and Editor: Lucas VisscherJoe's Info: / https://www.facebook.com/joe.hekkema.31Erics Info: / https://www.facebook.com/Eric231bakerWant to be a guest on the podcast? Fill out this form to apply: https://forms.gle/tBsC5rcZNSLPB722A👉 Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery

What does it really mean to be sober?In this episode, Joe and Eric dive into one of the most common—and sometimes most misunderstood—questions in recovery: What is sobriety? They discuss the different perspectives on being sober, the difference between abstinence and recovery, and why everyone's journey can look a little different.Whether you're new to recovery, supporting someone you love, or have been sober for years, this conversation offers honest insights into what it means to build a life free from addiction.Hosts: Joe Hekkema and Eric BakerProducer and Editor: Lucas VisscherWant to be a guest on the podcast? Fill out this form to apply: https://forms.gle/tBsC5rcZNSLPB722AJoe's Info: / https://www.facebook.com/joe.hekkema.31Erics Info: / https://www.facebook.com/Eric231baker👉 Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery

Welcome back to the Recovery After Party Podcast!In this episode, Joe and Eric sit down with John DueBer for a conversation that's equal parts inspiring, insightful, and entertaining.John shares his recovery journey, the impact of Celebrate Recovery, what inspired him to write a book, and some unforgettable stories from his time working as a bouncer. Together, they discuss faith, second chances, personal growth, and how every experience—good and bad—can be used to help others.Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone you love, or simply enjoy hearing stories of transformation, this episode is full of hope, honesty, and a few laughs along the way.Hosts: Joe Hekkema and Eric BakerGuest: John DueBerProducer and Editor: Lucas VisscherFind a Celebrate Recovery meeting: https://crlocator.com/Joe's Info: / https://www.facebook.com/joe.hekkema.31Erics Info: / https://www.facebook.com/Eric231baker👉 Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery

In this episode, Joe and Eric sit down with Norman Young for a powerful conversation about recovery, faith, and fatherhood.Norman shares his personal journey and discusses how recovery is about more than overcoming addiction—it's about rebuilding your life, restoring relationships, and discovering purpose. Together, they explore the role faith can play in recovery, the importance of being present as a father, and how healing can create a lasting impact for future generations.Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone you love, or looking for encouragement on your own journey, this episode offers honest conversation, hope, and practical insight.Hosts: Joe Hekkema and Eric BakerGuest: Norman YoungProducer and Editor: Lucas VisscherJoe's Info: https://www.facebook.com/joe.hekkema.31Erics Info: https://www.facebook.com/Eric231bakerNormans Info: https://www.facebook.com/norm.r.youngMore info about Man Cave: https://mi-mancave.kit.com/3605768b16Songs Mentioned in Episode:More Like Jesus https://youtu.be/hNGQ2AQWZ6Q?si=YLVcPuYAoqDn0xvlMost Beautifulhttps://youtu.be/uo9EGiWXBec?si=PFjct2taMLaW0zmj👉 Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery

In this episode of the Recovery After Party Podcast, Joe and Eric sit down with Andy O'Riley—a longtime radio personality, founder of Positively Muskegon, and someone with his own recovery journey.Andy shares his story, talks about the power of community, and discusses how using media to highlight positive stories can make a real difference. Together, they explore recovery, second chances, breaking stigma, and why sharing stories of hope matters.Whether you're in recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for some encouragement, this conversation is full of insight, laughter, and inspiration.Hosts: Joe Hekkema and Eric BakerGuest: Andy O'RileyProducer and Editor: Lucas Visscher👉 Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery

In this episode, Joe and Eric sit down with Matt Kolkema, a former detective and current enforcement officer with Swift and Sure. Matt shares his unique perspective from years of law enforcement experience and discusses how the court system, probation programs, and recovery efforts work together to help individuals rebuild their lives.

The conversation explores the challenges people face when navigating the justice system, the importance of personal responsibility, and the role recovery plays in creating lasting change.

👉 Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery

In this episode of The Recovery After Party Podcast, Joe and Eric sit down with Parole Officer Greg Balcom to discuss the intersection of recovery, parole, and probation.Greg shares his perspective on the challenges individuals face while rebuilding their lives after incarceration, the role accountability plays in long-term success, and how recovery can help break the cycle of addiction and criminal justice involvement. This honest conversation helps shed light on the realities of supervision while highlighting the importance of support, community, and second chances.If you've ever wondered how parole and recovery work together, this episode is for you.Hosts: Joe Hekkema and Eric BakerGuest: Greg BalcomProducer and Editor: Lucas Visscher👉Want to learn more about our programs or get connected?Visit our website and follow us on social media for updates, events, and more stories of hope.🔗 Website: samaritanrco.com

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SamaritanWay📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samaritanwayrecovery