Podcast
RCVR Stories
Hosted by Gary Menkes · EN
RCVR Stories — Real People. Real Recovery. Real Hope.
RCVR Stories is the evolution of what began as The Begin Again Podcast.
Same mission. Same heart. Bigger purpose.
Hosted by Gary Menkes — sober since 2006, founder of the recovery lifestyle brand RCVR, and believer that every comeback story deserves to be heard — this podcast shares unfiltered conversations with people who have rebuilt their lives through recovery.
Each week, we explore stories of addiction, transformation, resilience, mental health, and the powerful truth that you are not alone.
From athletes and artists to entrepreneurs, creators, and everyday heroes, RCVR Stories shines a light on the voices that prove recovery is not just possible — it’s extraordinary.
This is more than a podcast.
This is a movement.
A tribe of a million comebacks.
Welcome to RCVR Stories.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
🦋EP 111 - Breaking the Stigma: Ali Yule’s Journey Through Sobriety
Aug 2601:05:40Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode of RCVR Stories host Gary sits down with Ali Yule, who will be celebrating three years of sobriety in August. Ali shares her deeply personal journey from growing up with anxiety and substance abuse in her family to falling in love with sobriety. Despite experimenting with alcohol in high school, it was a traumatic event at 21 that thrust Ali into full-blown addiction, leading to numerous relapses and stints in rehab. A turning point came after the birth of her son, where she finally chose sobriety for herself. Ali found a lifesaving sponsor and immersed herself in the AA program, discovering the freedom that comes with surrender and making amends. Today, she actively fights stigma by recovering out loud and recently received a scholarship to pursue a bachelor's degree in addiction. Ali's story is a testament to resilience, the power of community, and the possibility of a beautiful life on the other side of addiction.Follow Ali on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/aliyule/ to connect with her story, join her growing community, and be inspired by her unwavering commitment to hope and recovery.ABOUT ALI YULE SINGLEMANN:Ali Yule Singlemann is a proud recovery advocate who embodies what it means to live sober out loud. Set to celebrate three years of sobriety in August, Ali has transformed her life and now dedicates her journey to breaking the stigma surrounding addiction and inspiring others to see that recovery is not only possible but something to be celebrated.Her path to sobriety wasn’t easy, but it forged in her a deep sense of resilience, compassion, and purpose. Ali openly shares her experience, strength, and hope as a way to reach those who may still be struggling, offering a powerful reminder that no one has to walk this road alone. Her authenticity and willingness to be vulnerable have created a safe space for others to find courage and start their own journey toward healing.Ali is passionate about showing that recovery is a life of freedom, pride, and purpose. She believes in “recovering out loud,” not only for herself but for everyone who needs to hear that change is possible.SHOWNOTES:00:00 Introduction to The Begin Again Podcast02:09 Ali's Early Life and Struggles05:56 High School and Early Adulthood Challenges06:47 The Turning Point and Rehab Experiences12:03 Relapse and Continued Struggles17:26 Finding Sobriety and AA21:20 Embracing Sobriety and Helping Others36:23 Opening Up About Childhood Struggles37:58 High School Experimentation and Consequences38:52 The Turning Point at 2140:38 The Cycle of Relapse and Recovery44:28 A Life-Changing Decision49:50 Embracing Sobriety and Helping Others56:33 The Power of the 12 Steps01:02:26 Future Aspirations and Giving Back► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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🔄EP 110 - Facing the Abyss: Josh Datant's Redemption Story
Aug 1900:49:25Tap to summarizeIn this compelling episode of RCVR Stories, host Gary Menkes sits down with Josh Datant, a talented musician and powerful advocate for recovery. Josh shares his harrowing journey through addiction, which began at the tender age of 15 when he first tried heroin. From heavy alcohol use to engaging in identity theft and fraudulent checks, Josh's life spiraled out of control. He recounts how addiction led him to lose his career, relationships, and even custody of his son. The emotional turning point came when a compassionate police officer decided to take Josh to a detox facility instead of jail. This act of mercy, combined with Josh's prayers for a second chance, set him on a path to sobriety. Today, Josh is over a year clean, actively shares his story to help others, and continues his musical pursuits. His journey is a powerful testament to the possibility of recovery and the strength it takes to start over. Don't miss this episode that highlights the transformative power of honesty, support, and determination in overcoming addiction.ABOUT JOSH DATANT:Josh Datánt is a gifted musician, producer, songwriter, and passionate advocate for recovery whose life reflects the power of resilience and redemption. A California native now based in Texas, Josh’s journey spans the vibrant music scenes of Austin, San Antonio, Nashville, Los Angeles, and the Bay Area. From mastering fifteen instruments and touring with his band Datánt to composing scores for film and collaborating with industry legends, Josh has built a remarkable career defined by creativity and dedication.In 2021, Josh embraced sobriety and transformed his life, channeling his recovery journey into advocacy and music that uplifts and inspires. Today, he continues to use his talents to break stigma, mentor others, and create art that speaks to the heart of healing and hope.Follow Josh’s journey and music at https://joshdatant.com/home, connect with him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joshdatant/, and subscribe to his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Joshdatant.► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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💡EP 109 - Life Overhaul: Gabe Cohen's Path to Redemption
Aug 1200:50:42Tap to summarizeIn this heart-wrenching and inspiring episode of RCVR Stories, host Gary Menkes sits down with Gabe Cohen, a man whose journey through addiction and multiple incarcerations has led him to become a passionate advocate for recovery. Gabe shares his raw and personal experiences, from getting arrested at 15 for a shooting incident and grappling with cocaine addiction, to facing homelessness and numerous stints in prison. He talks about hitting rock bottom when a near-fatal health crisis became a turning point, leading him to a path of recovery and service. Gabe is now the founder of Discovery Cafe and author of 'The Peer Recovery Community Organization,' where he demonstrates how one's past does not have to define their future. Tune in to hear Gabe's incredible story of resilience, transformation, and his unwavering commitment to helping others navigate their own recovery journeys.ABOUT GABE COHEN:Gabe Cohen is a powerful example of what it means to transform pain into purpose. After surviving years of homelessness and multiple incarcerations, Gabe made the decision to rewrite his story — not just for himself, but for others still fighting their way out. Today, he is the founder of Discovery Cafe, a community hub rooted in recovery, empowerment, and connection. Gabe is also the author of The Peer Recovery Community Organization: How to Leverage Your Life Experience and Create a New Legacy, a guide for turning lived experience into lasting impact.Follow Gabe’s work at gabecohen.me, connect with him on Instagram @peer_recovery_expert, check out his book on Amazon, and learn more about his mission at discoverycafe.org.► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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🪖EP 108 - Thomas LaGrave: From Navy Seal to Youth Mentor
Aug 500:47:20Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode of RCVR Stories, Gary Menkes interviews Thomas LaGrave, a former Navy Seal whose career ended tragically due to drug use. Thomas shares his compelling story of addiction, starting his drug use at age 14, and how it ultimately led to his discharge from the military. Despite this dark period, Thomas found recovery and has been sober for over 35 years. He dedicates his life to mentoring young people through recovery and personal growth, and is the founder of Honor Bound Academy. Thomas discusses the emotional turmoil he faced, including struggling with family responsibilities and dealing with a deeply personal secret that once tormented him. Today, Thomas is an accomplished author with his latest book 'Special Welfare Social Warfare,' providing insights into the generational challenges of adolescence. This episode dives into themes of resilience, trust, and seizing the day as Thomas encourages listeners to live authentically and fully.ABOUT THOMAS LAGRAVE:Thomas LaGrave is a former Navy SEAL whose military career was cut short by addiction — but his story didn’t end there. With over 35 years of sobriety, Thomas has devoted his life to mentoring young men through recovery, accountability, and personal growth. He is the founder of Honor Bound Academy, an innovative and educational mentorship initiative focused on building integrity and purpose in the lives of those seeking a new path. Thomas is also the author of Special Welfare Social Warfare, a powerful reflection on his journey, his faith, and the battles many face on the road to transformation.Learn more about his work at https://thehonorboundacademy.org/Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thomasjlagravejr/Connect with him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thomasjlagravejr/Explore his books and author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0DHLPM2GN/aboutGet his latest book here: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Welfare-Social-Warfare-ebook/dp/B0DHHLVKPJ► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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❤️🔥EP 107 - Rebirth: The Journey of Alexandra Talbot
Jul 2900:54:23Tap to summarizePODCAST DESCRIPTION:In this powerful episode of RCVR Stories, host Gary Menkes welcomes Alexandra Talbot, a health and lifestyle coach and founder of Sober Active Canada. Alexandra shares her harrowing journey of battling addiction starting from the tender age of 10 to her triumphant path to recovery and transformation. She delves into the emotional lows of losing her job and nearly facing homelessness, and the pivotal moment on April 22, 2017, that led to her 'rebirth.' Alexandra discusses the importance of self-love, spirituality, and her trifecta program attacking the mental, physical, and spiritual facets of addiction. Her story is one of resilience and the radical transformations that can follow when one chooses to live life unaddicted. Join us to hear about her inspiring journey, the importance of a holistic approach to recovery, and her new mission to establish Canada's first multipurpose recovery center.ABOUT ALEXANDRA TALBOT:Alexandra Talbot is a passionate health and lifestyle coach dedicated to helping others thrive in sobriety through movement, mindset, and meaningful connection. As the force behind Sober Active Canada, Alexandra blends her own recovery journey with her coaching expertise to build a supportive space where sober individuals can reclaim their health, energy, and joy. Her work empowers others to stay active, stay connected, and stay inspired — one day at a time.Follow Alexandra on Instagram @alexytalbot_healthyxxl and connect with her community at @soberactivecanada.► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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☄️EP 106 - Sobriety and Swagger: Chris Rosburg's Story of Redemption
Jul 2200:36:20Tap to summarizeIn this riveting episode of RCVR Stories, host Gary Menkes sits down with Chris Rosburg to discuss his harrowing journey through addiction and his inspiring path to sobriety. Chris opens up about his early experiences with alcohol and drugs, the dangers he faced, and how his life spiraled out of control. He shares poignant moments from his life, including an unforgettable stint on a reality dating show and the critical turning points that led him to seek help. Chris recounts his prayers for deliverance, his life-changing experience in rehab, and the overwhelming support he received from his family. The episode also delves into the emotional relief of overcoming addiction, the transformational power of prayer, and celebrating the successes of a sober life. Chris talks about his innovative Sober City app, designed to support people in recovery with daily reflections, prompts, and a touch of humor. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to the power of recovery, filled with courage, hope, and the message that it's never too late to rebuild your life. Join Gary and Chris for an episode that illustrates the beauty that blooms beyond addiction.Follow Chris on Instagram @rosburgchris and learn more about his work at SoberCityUSA.com.► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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🏥EP 105 - From Party Girl to Sober Coach: Kate Vitela's Incredible Journey
Jul 1500:39:29Tap to summarizeIn this heartfelt narrative, Kate Vitela shares her raw and unfiltered experience with addiction and her initial struggles with sobriety. She describes a poignant moment of clarity at a support meeting, where she felt a deep sense of belonging for the first time. Acknowledging the importance of personal responsibility in recovery, this story encapsulates a critical point in Vitela's journey that led her to find the strength and self-worth needed to overcome her addiction. This insightful reflection offers a glimpse into the emotional and transformative experiences that define the path to sobriety.🎧 Listen to her podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HnmL34YoaJq2kUpMNmigD 📲 Follow Kate on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewiredsober/ 🔗 Learn more: https://linktr.ee/KateVitela► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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🔥 EP 104 - The Crime That Changed Everything: Joshua Bennett-Johnson's Last Rock Bottom
Jul 801:04:07Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes interviews Joshua Bennett-Johnson, a licensed alcohol and drug counselor from Waltham, Boston, MA. Joshuaua shares his harrowing experiences with addiction, including a traumatic childhood marked by fear and anxiety. He also recounts his descent into substance abuse, starting with smoking his first joint at 12 to robbing a bank at 29 to feed his addiction. Joshuaua speaks candidly about his turning point in jail, his recovery journey, and the profound impact his counselor Larry had on his life. Now a counselor himself, Joshuaua helps others navigate their paths to sobriety, emphasizing the importance of love and relatability in treatment. This episode is a powerful testament to the transformative potential of recovery and the unwavering human spirit.👉 Follow Joshua and learn more about his work: 🌐 jbj-counseling.com 📱 @jbj_counseling_ on Instagram► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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🌟EP 103 - Discovering Joy: Elan Hardy's Path to Sobriety and Self-Discovery
Jul 100:53:40Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes, dives deep into the raw and transformative story of Elan Hardy, a trauma-informed somatic coach and sobriety specialist. With 12 years of sobriety under her belt, Elan shares her tumultuous journey through addiction starting from a young age in a wild and boundary-free childhood. She recounts her various attempts at rehabilitation, the tragic loss of a loved one, and the moment that catalyzed her commitment to sobriety. Elan’s candid narrative reveals how she transitioned from using substances to numb emotional pain to embracing a life dedicated to healing and transformation. Her innovative methods for overcoming trauma and regulating emotions offer hope and practical tools for anyone seeking recovery. Tune in to hear Elan's inspiring comeback story and learn about her new 12-week digital course designed to guide others on their path to sobriety.Follow Elan on Instagram at @joyfully.sober to learn more about her work and connect with her community.► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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🚀EP 102 - If I Fail, I Fail: Melissa McGovern on Embracing Fear and Recovery
Jun 2400:47:13Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes speaks with Melissa McGovern, a certified sobriety coach and the host of the Sober New Yorker podcast. Melissa opens up about her lifelong battle with alcohol, beginning with her early drinking experiences in Wisconsin, through her struggles during the pandemic, and the series of personal losses that heightened her dependence on alcohol. She describes hitting rock bottom, receiving alarming health statistics during a doctor's visit, and making the life-changing decision to remove alcohol from her life. Through a combination of walking, embracing support systems in New York City, and leveraging online sobriety resources, Melissa successfully turned her life around. Her story is one of resilience and transformation, proving that it’s never too late to reclaim one’s life and purpose. Today, she channels her journey into helping others as a sobriety coach, emphasizing the importance of facing fear, getting out of one's comfort zone, and pursuing authenticity and fulfillment in sobriety.Follow Melissa’s journey and connect with her work at TheSobernNewYorker.com, on Instagram @thesobernewyorker, and on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sober-new-yorker/id1751183180.► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com 🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring OthersJoin the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.Sign Up Now ★ Let's connect: Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe
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