RRP 71 – Don M’s Story: Founding Voices Series, Episode 5

Presenters: Peter and Julie
Length: 1 hour, 49 minutes

Summary

Episode seventy-one of the Real Recovery Podcast features Don M, a cherished friend, mentor, and father figure in the recovery community. With over 45 years of sobriety, Don’s journey spans a turbulent childhood, coming out in a challenging era, a career as a flight attendant, and decades of service in addiction treatment. Don’s story is filled with heartfelt moments—overcoming family struggles, enduring loss, finding chosen family, and offering unwavering support to others. He was instrumental in Peter’s recovery, introducing him to the Lunch Bunch, a group that remains a cornerstone for many. This episode is a testament to resilience, acceptance, and the power of community in recovery[1].

Key Points with Timecodes

[00:00:00] Introduction to Don M and his 45 years of sobriety
[00:03:40] Don’s turbulent childhood and family struggles
[00:10:45] Coming out as gay and early struggles with alcohol
[00:14:00] Career as a flight attendant and challenges with addiction
[00:20:00] Turning point: out-of-body experience and commitment to sobriety
[00:26:00] Volunteering and work in treatment centers
[00:30:00] Loss of partner Doug and coping with grief
[00:35:00] Meeting Peter and the importance of the Lunch Bunch meeting
[00:40:00] Reflections on recovery, relationships, and service
[00:46:00] Advice for newcomers and the importance of community support[1]

Links

Quote

“Recovery is about touching lives and being there for others. It's been a journey I wouldn't trade.”
— Don M.

Hashtags and Mentions

#FoundingVoices #RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #ServiceInRecovery #RecoveryIsPossible
@RealRecoveryPodcast