Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 160 | John shares his personal story of growing up in an upper-middle-class family with a high-functioning alcoholic father. Despite a good upbringing, John's young adulthood spiraled into addiction, particularly with alcohol and later cocaine. He recounts his first experiences with these substances and the pivotal moments that led to his criminal activities. John was eventually sentenced to 12 years in prison, an event that he views as life-saving. During his incarceration, John experienced a spiritual awakening and committed to changing his life. He became heavily involved in addiction services and recovery programming. Upon his release, he found support at CCAR, where he now gives back as a recovery coach and volunteer. John emphasizes the importance of suggestions over advice and advocates for multiple pathways to recovery.

00:00 Introduction and Host Backgrounds

00:35 Early Life and Family Dynamics

03:04 First Encounters with Substance Use

04:37 Descent into Addiction

07:00 Criminal Activities and Consequences

07:36 Turning Point and Recovery Journey

11:36 Life After Recovery

19:46 Advice and Reflections

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In this bonus episode of the Recovery Matters Podcast, we get to know Stacy Charpentier, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR). Stacy shares her personal background, from her childhood in New Britain to her career journey that led her to CCAR. She discusses her family's struggle with addiction and recovery, highlighting the impact of her father's experience. Stacy outlines her previous roles at CCAR, including her work as the Director of Training, and emphasizes the importance of connection, communication, and compassion in recovery coaching. Stacy offers insights into the organizational culture at CCAR and shares candid advice on being genuine and the value of self-care within the community.

00:00 Introduction to the New Executive Director

00:29 Getting to Know Stacy Charpentier

01:09 Stacy's Journey to CCAR

04:01 Stacy's Personal Connection to Recovery

05:39 Family and Personal Life

09:18 Professional Growth and Achievements

13:20 The Impact of Recovery Coaching

16:52 Global Reach and Philosophy of CCAR

18:49 Sharing the Message of Recovery

19:59 The Magic of CCAR Community Centers

22:09 Supporting Each Other in Recovery

25:27 Accessing Recovery Resources

27:44 Advocacy and Awareness

28:42 Personal Reflections on Recovery

33:28 Rapid Fire Questions

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙RecoveryMatters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?

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🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery

Antonio shares his story of growing up in challenging conditions in Puerto Rico, dealing with family addiction, and facing abuse and bullying. His life spiraled into substance use, gang involvement, and repeated incarcerations. Despite experiencing severe lows, including near-death experiences and encounters with meth addiction, Antonio finds hope through his wife’s support and a recovery community. With a determination to change, he transforms his life, dedicating himself to recovery and helping others in similar situations. His journey exemplifies resilience and the possibility of redemption.

00:00 Introduction and Host's Background

00:31 Antonio’s Early Life and Challenges

02:14 Struggles with Addiction and Crime

09:38 Turning Point and Recovery Journey

12:17 Finding Peace and Giving Back

20:47 Discovering the Truth About My Past

21:16 Overcoming Emotional Challenges

22:06 Finding Motivation and Building Relationships

23:16 Navigating Recovery Pathways

24:50 The Dangers of Relapse

26:26 The Impact of Fentanyl

28:14 The Importance of Positive Influences

35:16 Reflecting on True Friendship

36:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

----Across the Web----

🌎 CCAR Website https://www.ccar.us

✉️ Donate: https://ccar.us/donate/

🎙Recovery Matters Podcast (Apple Music): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

🎙RecoveryMatters Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1wGUMMO...

🗣Recovery Matters TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@recoverymatterspodcast?

🗣Recovery Matters Instagram https://www.instagram.com/recoverymatterspodcast/

🗣CCAR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCAR4Recovery

📸CCAR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ccar4recovery

🐦CCAR Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccar4recovery