
Hosted by Julie and Peter · EN

🎙️ RRP Episode 65 – Tristan S.: Strength in the Scars—Seven Overdoses and the Road to RecoveryPresenter: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 8 minutesQuote:"I have a chance to make a choice to make a change." – Tristan S.Key Points with Time Stamps:[00:01:34] Introduction to Tristan and his sobriety milestone of 281 days[00:05:03] Early meth addiction at age 13 and instability in childhood[00:10:58] Trauma surrounding his best friend’s incarceration for attempted manslaughter[00:14:21] Surviving seven overdoses and the impact of fentanyl[00:20:21] Hospitalization in New Hampshire due to MRSA and scarring from self-harm[00:23:52] Near-death experience from heart infection[00:24:46] Defining surrender, personal change, and the turning point in his recovery[00:36:55] Homelessness in Portland and connecting with Another Chance[00:37:48] Transitioning to housing, work, and full-time service through sponsorship[00:40:24] Rebuilding trust, being a stepfather, and restoring family relationships[01:06:42] Final thoughts from Tristan: "You can make it. You can have a life again."Links:🎧 Listen: https://mdcr1.com/65📝 Blog: https://mdcr1.com/65b🔗 Another Chance Recovery🔗 Real Recovery PodcastSummary:In this raw and unfiltered episode, Tristan S. shares his extraordinary journey through trauma, addiction, and redemption. From first using meth at 13 to surviving seven overdoses and severe medical crises, Tristan’s story is a gripping reminder of both the brutality of addiction and the transformative power of recovery. Now over nine months sober, employed, engaged, and sponsoring others, Tristan leads with vulnerability and honesty—proof that recovery is possible even after immense darkness.Conclusion:Tristan’s story is not just about survival—it's about purpose, healing, and stepping into service. His life is a testament to the power of second chances and the strength found in scars. If you or someone you know is struggling, this episode is a must-listen.Hashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #SevenOverdoses #StrengthInScars #AnotherChance #RecoveryJourney #TraumaSurvivor #FentanylCrisis #HomelessToHopeful @AnotherChanceRecovery

Title: RRP Episode 64: Alcohol, Anxiety, and Advocacy – Grant’s Path to SobrietyPresenters: Julie and PeterLength: 1 hour, 10 minutesListening Link: https://mdcr1.com/64Blog Link: https://mdcr1.com/64bKey Points with Time Stamps:[00:02:03] Grant shares his sobriety date (June 15, 2019) and early life growing up on a ranch in rural Oregon.[00:06:03] First experiences with alcohol and observing generational drinking culture.[00:10:02] College drinking intensifies; the "church night" bar deals and impact on academics and health.[00:15:51] Grant describes high-functioning alcohol use and how it masked deeper depression and anxiety.[00:21:02] The escalation of his drinking in 2017–2018, daily use, and loss of control.[00:23:57] Rock bottom moment at a political fundraiser and realization he needed help.[00:26:54] A therapist at Legacy Good Sam explains alcoholism’s neurological effects—a turning point for Grant.[00:34:13] Introduction to AA, early meetings, and relapse leading to recommitment and securing a sponsor.[00:40:54] The importance of Zoom meetings during COVID and the role of community connection in recovery.[00:47:35] Balancing work travel and recovery, including meetings in other cities and public advocacy.[00:50:48] The impact of alcoholism and the underreported nature of alcohol-related deaths.[00:55:10] Reflections on the AA program, relapse, and embracing recovery long-term.Summary:In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Grant S. reflects on his journey from rural Oregon to a career in political advocacy—all while navigating the hidden burden of high-functioning alcoholism. Grant discusses how alcohol subtly took over his life, the cultural and familial influences that shaped his drinking habits, and the turning point that led him to seek recovery. From a transformative conversation with a therapist to his commitment to AA and showing up for recovery events across Oregon, Grant’s story is one of awareness, service, and resilience. Now over five years sober, his insights on anxiety, depression, relapse, and healing offer hope for anyone questioning their relationship with alcohol.Links to Websites Discussed:Portland Alano ClubLunch Bunch / Extended Family AAGresham AA – Oregon District 11Oregon RecoversReal Recovery PodcastQuote:“It takes a year for your brain to heal—and sometimes five years to pull your head out of your ass.” —Grant S.Hashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast #AlcoholRecovery #AAWorks #MentalHealthAwareness #HighBottomRecovery #RelapseAndRecovery #SobrietyJourney #HopeInSobriety #OregonRecovers@OregonRecovers @portlandalanoclub

Title:RRP Episode 51 - Running Toward Hope: Valerie Martinez’s Story of Overcoming Addiction and Building a New LifePresenter:Peter and JulieLength:1 hour, 13 minutesKey Points: [00:02:45] Introduction to Valerie Martinez and her journey from addiction to advocacy. [00:07:20] Valerie’s early struggles with addiction, growing up in a challenging environment. [00:13:30] Transitioning from family trauma to drug use at a young age and facing the consequences. [00:19:05] Recovery’s impact on Valerie’s life, including personal growth and healing. [00:23:40] Valerie’s experience at Fora Health and the role it played in her recovery. [00:35:00] Insights into the community-driven aspects of recovery, particularly GTD – Go The Distance. [00:46:12] The importance of boundaries, growth, and finding strength in the face of loss. [00:56:00] Valerie’s role as an outreach worker and her passion for supporting others in recovery. [01:07:30] The significance of a support system and being able to lean on others for help. [01:09:30] Closing thoughts on recovery, community, and the power of personal transformation.Links to Websites Discussed: GTD – Go the Distance 4D Recovery Fora Health Treatment & Recovery Real Recovery PodcastQuote:"Recovery is about growing every day." – Valerie MartinezHashtags and Mentions:#RealRecoveryPodcast, #AddictionRecovery, #ForaHealth, #GTD, #PeerDrivenRecovery, #RecoveryJourney, #HopeAndHealing, #CommunitySupport, @GTDgothedistance, @ForaHealth