Podcast
Real Recovery Podcast
Hosted by Julie and Peter · EN
Real Recovery Podcast Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN: 99-1347297) that empowers, enlightens, and inspires those on their recovery journey by sharing authentic stories, practical advice, and community insights. We create a safe and engaging platform for individuals to find solace, strength, and solidarity. Our podcast demystifies the recovery process, celebrates progress, and fosters belonging among listeners. By amplifying diverse voices within the recovery community, Real Recovery aims to be a beacon of hope.
43episodes
Episodes
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RRP Episode 96 – Community, Commitment, and Carrying Recovery Into the New Year
Jan 901:27:04Tap to summarizeRRP Episode 96 – Community, Commitment, and Carrying Recovery Into the New YearPresenters: Julie and PeterRelease Date: 1/9/26Length: 1 hour, 27 minutesEpisode OverviewThis New Year’s special episode features a reflective conversation with Julie, Peter, and Collette, followed by inspirational short interview clips recorded live at the GTD – Go the Distance fundraiser at City Liquidators. The episode centers on gratitude, community, and the shared responsibility of supporting recovery as a new year begins. Through candid reflection and live voices from the event, listeners hear how connection, service, and showing up for one another continue to shape recovery journeys.Key Points (with Time Codes)[00:01:21 – 00:02:25] Julie, Peter, and Collette introduce the New Year’s episode and explain the decision to include live audio from the GTD fundraiser.[00:02:25 – 00:03:10] Reflection on gratitude, community, and starting the year grounded in recovery values.[00:39:53 – 00:42:17] Discussion about stories heard at the GTD event and the impact of community support, including reflections on individuals connected to GTD and City Liquidators.[00:42:23 – 00:44:01] Julie, Peter, and Collette share intentions and hopes for the year ahead, both personally and for the podcast.[00:53:11 – 00:54:01] Transition to live coverage at City Liquidators during the GTD fundraiser.[00:54:01 – 00:56:30] Izzy Alvarado shares what he is grateful for, including GTD’s growth, community sponsors, and recovery.[00:58:01 – 00:59:02] Reflections on gratitude for GTD leadership, supporters, and the ongoing recovery community.[00:59:08 – 01:01:00] Conversation with Pam, owner of City Liquidators, on why recovery is important to her and why she supports the recovery community.[01:15:35 – 01:17:33] Additional live moments from the fundraiser highlighting community partnerships, sponsorship, and continued support for GTD.Featured OrganizationGTD – Go the Distancehttps://gtdgothedistance.orgLinksListen to the Episode: https://mdcr1.com/96Blog Post: https://mdcr1.com/96bReal Recovery Podcast: https://www.realrecoverypodcast.comHashtags & Mentions#RealRecoveryPodcast, #GTDGoTheDistance, #RecoveryCommunity, #NewYearRecovery, #CommunitySupport, #RecoveryJourney@GTDGoTheDistance
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RRP Episode 95 – Holiday Message: Rest, Reflection, and Recovery During the Holidays
Dec 2600:10:07Tap to summarizeTitle:RRP Episode 95 – Holiday Message: Rest, Reflection, and Recovery During the HolidaysPresenters:Peter and JulieLength:10 minutesSummary:In this heartfelt holiday message, Peter and Julie share an important update with listeners as the Real Recovery Podcast takes a short break for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. They talk openly about the challenges and emotions that often come with the holidays, while reminding everyone that connection, community, and support are always within reach.This episode highlights the top five most-streamed Real Recovery Podcast episodes of the year and encourages listeners to revisit these powerful stories during the break. It also offers practical resources for 24-hour recovery support, both in-person and online, ensuring that no one faces the holidays alone.Key Points with Time Stamps:[00:00:14] Peter and Julie open the show with holiday greetings and share that Real Recovery Podcast will be dark through Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.[00:00:36] Discussion on how the holidays can be both joyful and challenging, particularly for people in recovery.[00:01:03] Julie reminds listeners that many local recovery clubs, including the Alano Club of Portland, offer 24-hour meetings during the holidays.[00:01:23] Julie and Peter talk about the convenience of online recovery meetings and how easy it is to connect with others anywhere in the world.[00:02:00] Peter lists several organizations that remain open through the holidays, including Another Chance Recovery, Fora Health Treatment & Recovery, and 4D Recovery.[00:02:41] Announcement of the top five most-streamed Real Recovery Podcast episodes.[00:03:04] Review of the top five episodes: Colette, Julie, Izzy, Ben, and Roger.[00:03:47] Peter and Julie share their personal favorites — Elton Frice, Jonah W., and Skyler Ray.[00:06:00] Peter and Julie thank listeners for their continued support and donations that keep the podcast going.[00:07:33] A special shout-out to supporter Leanne for her encouragement and contributions.[00:08:30] Closing reflections — reminding listeners that recovery is a journey, not a destination.Top 5 Most-Streamed Episodes Mentioned:RRP Show 004: Embracing the Journey – Colette’s Powerful Story of Overcoming Addiction and Rediscovering HopeRRP Show 003: Julie’s Journey – From Darkness to 30 Years of Light on the Real Recovery PodcastRRP Episode 005: From Shadows to Summit – Izzy’s Journey of Recovery and the Founding of “Go the Distance”RRP Show 007: Triumph Over Trials – Ben’s Path from Addiction to the CourtroomRRP Episode 006: Roger’s Story – Finding Strength and Stability in RecoveryQuote:“We just want to remind you — you’re not alone.” — Peter and JulieLinks to Resources Discussed:Alano Club of PortlandLunch Bunch / Extended FamilyAnother Chance Recovery4D RecoveryFora Health Treatment & RecoveryReal Recovery PodcastListening Link: https://mdcr1.com/listenBlog Link: https://mdcr1.com/blogConclusion:Peter and Julie close this short but powerful holiday message with gratitude and encouragement, thanking listeners for their support and reminding everyone that connection is the heart of recovery. The episode ends with a warm holiday wish:“Take care of yourselves, reach out to others, and remember — you’re not alone.”Hashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast, #AddictionRecovery, #RecoveryJourney, #HopeAndHealing, #CommunitySupport, #KeepComingBack, #ResilienceAndHope, @4DRecovery, @GTDGoTheDistance, @PortlandAlanoClub
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RRP 72-Real Recovery Podcast: Founding Voices EP 06-Tony Z
Jul 25, 202501:05:53Tap to summarizeRRP 72 – Tony Z’s Story: Founding Voices Series, Episode 6Presenters: Peter and JulieLength: 1 hour, 4 minutesSummaryEpisode seventy-two of the Real Recovery Podcast features Tony Z sharing his journey from an idyllic childhood in Oregon through addiction, hitting bottom, and finding recovery through the 12 steps. Tony discusses his struggles with heroin, music, community, and service, and his ongoing commitment to sobriety and helping others[1].Key Points with Timecodes[00:00:00] Emily welcomes Tony Z and previews his extraordinary journey through addiction and recovery.[00:05:21] Tony describes his early life on the Willamette River in Salem, Oregon.[00:10:32] Tony reflects on his unique sense of style, being bullied in school, and finding support among creative peers.[00:17:06] Tony details his progression into addiction, struggling to afford drugs and using to avoid getting sick.[00:21:30] Tony shares how his friend Mike introduced him to AA and the challenge of getting clean from heroin.[00:30:13] Tony is introduced to the 12 steps, commits to 90 meetings in 90 days, and finds structure in recovery.[00:50:01] Tony discusses his involvement in music, playing bass and singing, and how hitting bottom coincided with his creative pursuits.[00:56:11] Tony talks about his outreach work, bringing resources to unhoused individuals and the importance of service.[01:00:04] Tony celebrates three years free from all substances, including cigarettes, and the impact of this milestone.[01:03:12] Tony shares a message from his sponsor: “You are not a piece of shit. You don’t have to be alone,” underscoring the importance of self-worth and community support[1].LinksListen to this episodeRead the blog postReal Recovery Podcast websiteQuoteYou are not a piece of shit. You don't have to be alone. That's the best I can do on any given day.– Tony ZHashtags and Mentions#FoundingVoices #RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #ServiceInRecovery #RecoveryIsPossible@RealRecoveryPodcast
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RRP 71-Real Recovery Podcast: Founding Voices EP 05-Don M
Jul 18, 202500:50:20Tap to summarizeRRP 71 – Don M’s Story: Founding Voices Series, Episode 5Presenters: Peter and JulieLength: 1 hour, 49 minutesSummaryEpisode 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]LinksListen to this episodeRead the blog postLunch Bunch & Extended Family AA OnlineReal Recovery Podcast websiteQuote“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
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RRP 70-Founding Voices: EP 04-Ben's Story
Jul 11, 202501:16:58Tap to summarizeRRP 70 – Ben M’s Story: Founding Voices Series, Episode 4Presenters: Peter and JulieLength: 1 hour, 34 minutesSummaryEpisode seventy of the Real Recovery Podcast features Ben M, the fourth voice in our Founding Voices series. Ben’s journey from chaotic adolescence in Texas to long-term recovery in Portland is a story of resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering honesty. As one of our most listened-to guests, Ben continues to inspire the recovery community with his vulnerability, humor, and steadfast commitment to service. This episode explores the power of connection, the challenges of relapse, and the hope found in embracing a new way of life.Key Points with Timecodes[00:00:00] Introduction and welcome by hosts Julie and Peter [00:02:00] Ben shares his background growing up in El Paso and Dallas, Texas, in a large Hispanic family [00:10:00] Early experiences with drugs, alcohol, and meeting men online at age 13 [00:20:00] Chaotic teenage years, struggles with identity, and early addiction [00:30:00] College years, moving to New York, and the impact of 9/11 [00:40:00] Continued struggles with addiction, nightlife, and early adulthood challenges [00:50:00] Law school, worsening addiction, and first DUI [01:00:00] Family intervention, first AA meeting, and initial attempts at sobriety [01:10:00] Relapses, mental health crises, and time in a psych ward [01:20:00] Reflections on recovery, spirituality, and the importance of AA and community [01:30:00] Ben’s life today, his sobriety, and a message of hope for othersLinksListen to this episodeRead the blog postReal Recovery Podcast websiteLunch Bunch & Extended Family AA OnlineGo the Distance nonprofitQuote"The only reason I'm living and breathing and have all the things I have in my life is because AA has shown me the way to do things differently."— Ben M.Hashtags and Mentions#FoundingVoices #RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #BenM #ServiceInRecovery@RealRecoveryPodcast
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RRP 69 – Founding Voices EP 03- Izzy’s Journey
Jul 4, 202501:25:50Tap to summarizeRRP 69 – Izzy’s Journey: From Addiction to Advocacy – Founding Voices SeriesPresenters: Peter and JulieLength: 1 hour, 29 minutesSummaryEpisode sixty-nine of the Real Recovery Podcast features Izzy, founder and executive director of Go the Distance (GTD), as the third voice in our Founding Voices series. Izzy shares his candid journey from growing up in New Mexico, through the depths of addiction and homelessness, to recovery and community leadership. His story highlights the power of service, the importance of second chances, and the impact of building a nonprofit that inspires hope and connection through running and recovery.Key Points with Timecodes[00:00:00] Introduction to Izzy and the Go the Distance story [00:05:10] Childhood in New Mexico and early feelings of being different [00:12:30] High school achievements, first experiences with substance use [00:19:45] College years, drinking culture, and first brushes with the law [00:27:00] Moving to Portland: struggles with employment, addiction, and identity [00:35:20] Discovering AA, finding a sponsor, and the importance of community [00:46:15] Relapse, homelessness, and the turning point in recovery [00:58:40] Rebuilding life: from busboy to fine dining, and back again [01:05:00] The founding of Go the Distance: running as recovery, building a nonprofit [01:17:30] The impact of service, mentorship, and supporting others in recovery [01:24:00] Reflections on resilience, loss, and the ongoing journey of hopeLinksListen to this episodeRead the blog postGo the Distance nonprofitReal Recovery Podcast websiteQuote“If you’re listening, remember that the guy who was homeless walking up and down 82nd street might be the next executive director of Go the Distance. That was me. And here I am, changing lives day to day.”— IzzyHashtags and Mentions#FoundingVoices #RealRecoveryPodcast #GoTheDistance #AddictionRecovery #ServiceInRecovery@RealRecoveryPodcast
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RRP 68- Founding Voices: EP 02-Roger’s Story
Jun 26, 202501:29:25Tap to summarizeRRP 68 – Roger’s Journey of Survival, Service, and Hope: Founding Voices SeriesPresenters: Peter and JulieLength: 1 hour, 29 minutesSummaryEpisode sixty-eight of the Real Recovery Podcast brings you the second chapter in our Founding Voices series: Roger’s remarkable journey. From a near-fatal gunshot in San Francisco to decades of substance use, Roger’s story is one of survival, transformation, and unwavering service. Today, he’s a pillar in the recovery community—volunteering weekly, sponsoring newcomers, and embodying hope for all who cross his path.Key Points with Timecodes[00:00:00] Introduction: Roger’s harrowing brush with death and the pivotal role it played in his recovery journey[1].[00:04:15] Roger reflects on 22 years of sobriety and the importance of staying “close to the center” in recovery[1].[00:05:45] The value of sponsorship and service work—Roger’s experience guiding others through the steps[1].[00:08:13] Daily affirmations and the power of reaching out to others in recovery[1].[00:10:37] Early life: Growing up near San Francisco, Catholic school, and first encounters with drugs and alcohol[1].[00:18:17] The progression of addiction—moving from experimentation to dependency, and the music scene’s influence[1].[00:21:55] Roger’s experience as a young parent, adoption, and the challenges of balancing family and addiction[1].[00:27:02] Life in San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community, relationships, and surviving a violent attack[1].[00:34:11] The aftermath of trauma: Out-of-body experience, family support, and the struggle to break free from addiction[1].[00:45:14] Arrest, court-ordered AA, and the cycle of relapse and return to substance use[1].[00:56:17] The turning point: Facing job loss, cancer diagnosis, and the decision to try recovery “with nothing left to lose”[1].[01:08:55] Roger’s defining moment—flushing his last pill and claiming his sobriety date[1].[01:13:28] The daily commitment: Making meetings a top priority and the simple formula for early recovery[1].[01:20:00] Service work, fellowship, and the joy of giving back—Roger’s life after recovery[1].[01:26:18] Closing reflections: Hope, worthiness, and a message to those still struggling[1].LinksListen to this episode: https://mdcr1.com/68Read the blog post: https://mdcr1.com/68bExplore more episodes: https://www.realrecoverypodcast.comQuote“There’s no other reason why I’ve been given this gift, if it isn’t to try and help somebody else… My recovery is my number one priority. Always.”— RogerHashtags and Mentions#FoundingVoices #RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #ServiceInRecovery #RecoveryIsPossible@RealRecoveryPodcast
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RRP 67-Real Recovery Podcast Founding Voices EP 01-Colettes Story
Jun 20, 202501:07:56Tap to summarizeRRP Founding Voices EP 01 – 20240322: Colette’s StoryPresenters: Julie and Peter Length: 1 hour, 36 minutesKey Points:Colette’s childhood marked by extreme trauma, including abuse and neglectHer early exposure to substances, beginning with alcohol at age sixRepeated attempts at recovery and chronic relapse cyclesA pivotal turning point in a psychiatric detox unitLife-saving treatment at Another Chance RecoveryFinding community at Lunch Bunch and Extended FamilyHer deeply personal “Goodbye Letter” to crack and vodkaRebuilding her life and eventually becoming a board member of Real Recovery Podcast Inc.Quote:“Dear Vodka and Crack, you are not worth my sobriety. You are not worth my relationship with my family. You are not worth my self-respect... You are not worth my life. Not dying, but living.” — Colette MorrisonLinks:🎧 Listen to the episode: https://mdcr1.com/4📖 Read the blog post: https://mdcr1.com/4b🌐 Another Chance Recovery🌐 Lunch Bunch and Extended Family🌐 Real Recovery PodcastHashtags and Mentions: #RealRecoveryPodcast #FoundingVoices #ColetteMorrison #AddictionRecovery #AnotherChance #TraumaSurvivor #RecoveryJourney #ResilienceAndHope @RealRecoveryPodcast
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RRP Episode 66.2 – Dontae Mathis-Part 2: From Trauma to Triumph—A Father's Fight for Recovery
Jun 13, 202501:10:32Tap to summarize🎧 RRP Episode 66 – Dontae Mathis: From Trauma to Triumph—A Father's Fight for RecoveryPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: Part One – 1:35:49 | Part Two – 50:49💬 SummaryIn this powerful two-part episode, Dontae Mathis joins Julie and Peter to share his remarkable journey of resilience, redemption, and service. In Part One, Dontae recounts being shot at sixteen—a traumatic turning point that led to years of addiction, incarceration, and personal struggle. He reflects on his time in a correctional boot camp and how hitting bottom ultimately brought clarity.In Part Two, we pick up after Dontae’s release from boot camp. He shares the moment he chose to live, the impact of fatherhood on his recovery, and how peer support work at 4D Recovery gave him a voice and a purpose. Dontae’s story is one of real pain, real growth, and real recovery.🕒 Key Points with Time StampsPart One[00:08:05] Shot at sixteen—Dontae shares the traumatic event that altered his life.[00:23:40] Twelve years of incarceration “in and out” while battling addiction.[00:29:15] Surrender moment in front of the mirror: “I don’t want to die like this.”[01:31:50] Reflecting on his time in a correctional boot camp program.Part Two[01:35:49] Life after boot camp—transitioning out and choosing recovery.[01:38:00] The power of fatherhood in motivating change.[01:44:10] “I share my story not for me… but for the guy sitting in the back.”[01:52:38] Peer work and public speaking at 4D Youth Center.[02:25:14] Final reflections on service, gratitude, and hope.💬 Quote“I share my story not for me anymore… but for the guy sitting in the back who thinks he’s alone.”—Dontae Mathis🔗 Links to Websites Discussed4D Recovery – Peer Services & Support4D Youth Center – 1206 SE 11th Ave, Portland, OROregon Recovers – Advocacy for RecoveryMHAAO – Mental Health & Addiction Association of OregonReal Recovery Podcast📲 Links to Listen and ReadListen to Part One: https://mdcr1.com/66Read the Blog (Part One): https://mdcr1.com/66bListen to Part Two: https://mdcr1.com/66pt2Read the Blog (Part Two): https://mdcr1.com/66pt2b📣 Hashtags and Mentions#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #TraumaToTriumph #FathersInRecovery #RedemptionStory #PeerSupport #ResilienceAndHope@4DRecovery @OregonRecovers @mhaoforegon
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RRP Episode 66.1 – Dontae Mathis-Part 1: From Trauma to Triumph—A Father's Fight for Recovery
Jun 6, 202500:59:34Tap to summarize🎧 RRP Episode 66 – Dontae Mathis: From Trauma to Triumph—A Father's Fight for RecoveryPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: Part One – 1:35:49 | Part Two – 50:49💬 SummaryIn this powerful two-part episode, Dontae Mathis joins Julie and Peter to share his remarkable journey of resilience, redemption, and service. In Part One, Dontae recounts being shot at sixteen—a traumatic turning point that led to years of addiction, incarceration, and personal struggle. He reflects on his time in a correctional boot camp and how hitting bottom ultimately brought clarity.In Part Two, we pick up after Dontae’s release from boot camp. He shares the moment he chose to live, the impact of fatherhood on his recovery, and how peer support work at 4D Recovery gave him a voice and a purpose. Dontae’s story is one of real pain, real growth, and real recovery.🕒 Key Points with Time StampsPart One[00:08:05] Shot at sixteen—Dontae shares the traumatic event that altered his life.[00:23:40] Twelve years of incarceration “in and out” while battling addiction.[00:29:15] Surrender moment in front of the mirror: “I don’t want to die like this.”[01:31:50] Reflecting on his time in a correctional boot camp program.Part Two[01:35:49] Life after boot camp—transitioning out and choosing recovery.[01:38:00] The power of fatherhood in motivating change.[01:44:10] “I share my story not for me… but for the guy sitting in the back.”[01:52:38] Peer work and public speaking at 4D Youth Center.[02:25:14] Final reflections on service, gratitude, and hope.💬 Quote“I share my story not for me anymore… but for the guy sitting in the back who thinks he’s alone.”—Dontae Mathis🔗 Links to Websites Discussed4D Recovery – Peer Services & Support4D Youth Center – 1206 SE 11th Ave, Portland, OROregon Recovers – Advocacy for RecoveryMHAAO – Mental Health & Addiction Association of OregonReal Recovery Podcast📲 Links to Listen and ReadListen to Part One: https://mdcr1.com/66Read the Blog (Part One): https://mdcr1.com/66bListen to Part Two: https://mdcr1.com/66pt2Read the Blog (Part Two): https://mdcr1.com/66pt2b📣 Hashtags and Mentions#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #TraumaToTriumph #FathersInRecovery #RedemptionStory #PeerSupport #ResilienceAndHope@4DRecovery @OregonRecovers @mhaoforegon
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