Description:

In this inspiring episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Steve Adami, executive director of The Way Out Recovery initiative with the Salvation Army in San Francisco. Steve opens up about his powerful journey from addiction, crime, and repeated jail time to becoming a leader in recovery and rehabilitation programs. After spending over two decades in and out of prison, Steve experienced a life-changing transformation during his last sentence in 2010. Through faith, twelve-step programs, and sheer determination, he turned his life around, earning a master’s degree and dedicating himself to helping others.

Steve shares how his work at The Way Out focuses on addressing the homelessness and addiction crisis in San Francisco. His programs provide real-time access to recovery services, residential treatment, and long-term housing for those who need it most. Steve also discusses the challenges of balancing government and donor funding while maintaining the values of a faith-based organization.

Tune in to hear Steve’s heartfelt story of resilience, faith, and transformation as he sheds light on the importance of recovery programs in San Francisco and beyond.

About Steve Adami:

Steve Adami is the executive director of The Way Out Recovery initiative at the Salvation Army in San Francisco. After spending years in and out of jail due to addiction and crime, Steve transformed his life through faith and recovery. He now leads comprehensive recovery programs that focus on rehabilitation, reentry services, and homelessness solutions. His work has made a significant impact in San Francisco, where he advocates for effective alternatives to the city's housing-first model.

Follow Steve’s journey and initiatives on his website: https://www.steveadami.com/
Explore The Way Out: https://westernusa.salvationarmy.org/san_francisco/the-way-out/
Connect on Twitter: @TheWayOutSF, @salvationarmysf, @SteveAdami

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Description:

In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes talks with Suki Jones, author of Sea, Swallow Me, about her intense journey through addiction, trauma, and recovery. Suki opens up about her early experiences with substance abuse, including her struggles with alcohol, prescription drug addiction, and eating disorders. She recounts the emotional toll of growing up with an alcoholic father and codependent mother, and how these experiences led her down a path of self-destruction.

Suki candidly shares her battle with prescription medications like codeine and Fioricet, doctor shopping, and the fear of leaving her children motherless. Through her recovery, she found strength in twelve-step programs and a supportive community, which helped her regain control of her life. Now sober, Suki is working on her second book and continues to inspire others with her story of resilience.

Gary and Suki discuss the importance of trust, accountability, and the transformative power of sobriety. This episode offers hope and encouragement to anyone struggling with addiction, showing that recovery is possible with the right support.

About Suki Jones:

Suki Jones is an author, advocate, and recovery warrior who has overcome addiction and trauma to build a life of resilience and healing. Through her personal experiences with alcohol, prescription drugs, and eating disorders, Suki shares her story to inspire others on their path to sobriety. Her journey emphasizes the power of community, twelve-step programs, and personal growth. Suki is also working on her second book while continuing to speak about her recovery and the strength it has brought her.

Follow Suki on Instagram for updates: https://www.instagram.com/suki_jones/
Check out her book Sea, Swallow Me on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Swallow-Me-Suki-Jones-ebook/dp/B0BWQZRRFV

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Description:

In this heartfelt episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Paulette Kengg, author of Spirit Led Sobriety, to explore her incredible journey from the depths of alcohol addiction to spiritual freedom. Paulette opens up about her battle with alcohol, which began as a way to cope with insomnia and personal trauma but quickly spiraled into a destructive dependence. She shares the emotional toll it took on her life, including failed recovery attempts, morning drinks of Jack Daniels, and a near-death experience involving alcohol and Ambien.

Paulette’s story is one of transformation and resilience, finding her path to sobriety through faith, neuroplasticity, and a deep commitment to spiritual growth. In this episode, she discusses the importance of spirituality in her recovery and the role of daily practices like prayer and gratitude journaling. Gary and Paulette reflect on the challenges of addiction and the incredible freedom that sobriety brings. Paulette’s powerful story offers hope to those battling addiction and inspires others to find their own path to recovery.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, faith, and the undeniable strength of the human spirit.

About Paulette Kengg:

Paulette Kengg is the author of Spirit Led Sobriety and a dedicated advocate for addiction recovery through spiritual healing. After overcoming her own battle with alcohol addiction, Paulette now shares her story to inspire others on their journey to sobriety. Through her book and her recovery community, she offers guidance and support for those seeking a faith-based path to freedom from addiction. Her mission is to show that through spirituality, personal growth, and resilience, true recovery is possible.

Follow Paulette on Instagram: @spiritledsobriety22 and join her recovery community on Facebook: Spirit Led Sobriety.

Check out her book Spirit Led Sobriety on Amazon: Spirit Led Sobriety by Paulette Kengg.

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Description:

In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with recovery advocate Laurie Anderson to discuss her deeply personal journey from addiction to sobriety. Laurie bravely shares her experience with alcohol and substance abuse, revealing the emotional struggles she faced, including the pressures of perfectionism, the challenges of her Italian family dynamics, and the heartbreak of her son’s battle with heroin addiction. Through candid storytelling, Laurie discusses how she hit rock bottom, only to rise up with the help of support groups, self-love, and relentless determination.

Together, Gary and Laurie explore the importance of non-traditional recovery paths, shedding light on the 'recover out loud' movement and the powerful community that embraces all recovery journeys. Laurie emphasizes the need for open-mindedness in the recovery process and shares how her dedication to sobriety has led her to help others through events, social media, and advocacy.

Whether you are in recovery, know someone who is, or simply seek inspiring stories of resilience, this episode offers valuable insights into overcoming addiction and finding strength in community. Don’t miss Laurie Anderson’s powerful story of hope, recovery, and the joy of rebuilding life from the ground up.

About:

Laurie Anderson is a passionate recovery advocate dedicated to helping others navigate their journeys to sobriety. After overcoming her own battle with addiction, Laurie found strength in the 'recover out loud' community and now shares her story to inspire others. She is actively involved in organizing events and working with organizations that provide resources for those in recovery. Laurie's mission is to spread hope and create a supportive network for anyone struggling with addiction.

Follow Laurie on Instagram for daily inspiration and insights: @laurs_soberworld

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PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

In this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes brings together inspiring stories of transformation and resilience from individuals who have overcome addiction and embraced sobriety. Through powerful clips from past episodes, listeners will hear firsthand how these incredible guests have rebuilt their lives and found personal growth after hitting rock bottom.

Guests like Derrick Michaud share how addiction threatened to derail their careers, but through hard work and dedication, they’ve emerged stronger, building successful businesses and finding new purpose. Luke Worsfold opens up about how his battle with addiction led him to discover the importance of therapy, self-love, and accountability in his recovery process. Michael Quigley reflects on his first year of sobriety and how the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous helped him recalibrate his life.

Anthony Zorzetto’s journey from homelessness to sobriety serves as a testament that anyone can recover and thrive, while Charlie Levoir explains how his commitment to continuous education has allowed him to better support others facing addiction.

These moving stories of struggle, recovery, and transformation will inspire anyone facing challenges in life to persevere. Tune in and be motivated by the resilience of these individuals who have not only found sobriety but also transformed their lives in the process.

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PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

Immerse yourself in the riveting journey of Kat Lyons, a beacon of hope in the realm of sobriety, in this enlightening podcast episode.

Kat opens up about her battle with alcoholism, her transformative journey towards recovery, and how she channeled her experiences into becoming a Sober Travel Expert.

From her early struggles with alcohol, to adopting children from foster care, to finding acceptance and strength in a 12-step program, Kat's story is a testament to resilience and self-realization. Hear firsthand how she navigates the world of travel sans alcohol, orchestrates onboard meetings on cruises, and provides a supportive community for those maintaining sobriety while traveling.

This episode is not only an exploration of Kat's personal journey, but also a discussion on overcoming addiction, discovering a higher power, and the transformative power of community support. Whether you're on the path to recovery or seeking inspiration, this conversation with Kat Lyons is sure to resonate with you.

Tune in to be part of this inspiring narrative of hope, resilience, and alcohol-free living.

ABOUT KAT LYONS:

Kat Lyons is a beacon of hope and inspiration in the world of sobriety. She battled and overcame alcoholism at a young age, transforming her life through determination and a 12-step program. Today, she is a dedicated mother of two adoptive children from foster care, and an advocate for alcohol-free living. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-realization, and community support.

Kat's mission extends beyond personal recovery. She is a Sober Travel Expert, helping others navigate the world without alcohol. She has been instrumental in orchestrating onboard meetings on cruises, providing a supportive environment for those maintaining sobriety while traveling. Kat's work is a testament to her commitment to helping others on their journey to recovery.

Follow Kat Lyons on her inspiring journey and stay connected with her through her Instagram account (@sobertraveling_) https://www.instagram.com/sobertraveling_ and her official website https://KatLyonsOfficial.com. Join her as she continues to spread hope, inspiration, and practical guidance for those on the path to sobriety.

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PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

In this compelling episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with ESPN sports broadcaster and host of the "Payoff with Pete" podcast, Pete Sousa. Pete opens up about his personal journey through addiction, sharing the highs and lows of his battle with alcoholism. He recounts the pivotal moments that led him to seek help and ultimately embrace sobriety, transforming his life and career in the process.

Pete's story is one of resilience, faith, and the power of self-belief. From his struggles with substance abuse to overcoming the challenges of dyslexia, Pete's journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. He reflects on how his experiences with addiction have shaped his life, leading him to work in public relations for NBA teams, and eventually landing his dream job with ESPN. Along the way, Pete learned the importance of gratitude, perseverance, and the support of a strong community.

This episode is a powerful reminder that no matter how far one may fall, it’s never too late to begin again. Join us as Pete shares his inspirational story, offering hope and motivation to anyone facing their own battles.

Tune in to be inspired by Pete Sousa's incredible journey to sobriety.

ABOUT PETE SOUSA:

Pete Sousa is an accomplished sports broadcaster with ESPN and the host of the "Payoff with Pete" podcast, where he shares his journey of overcoming addiction and finding success in sobriety. With a passion for storytelling and a deep understanding of the struggles many face, Pete uses his platform to inspire others through powerful interviews and personal reflections. His dedication to spreading positivity and hope has made him a respected voice in both the sports and recovery communities.

Follow Pete on his journey and connect with him on social media:

• YouTube: Pete Sousa on YouTube
• Instagram: @pete_sousa
• Spotify: Payoff with Pete

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PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

In this deeply moving episode, Gary Menkes welcomes the inspiring Mary Alice O'Hara, who shares her raw and powerful journey from alcohol addiction to sobriety.

Once gripped by addiction and depression, Mary Alice transformed her life at the age of 61 and is now a beacon of resilience and hope. Listen as she candidly discusses her struggles with mental health, the impact on her family, and her empowering path to recovery.

Discover the crucial role of community support and personalized recovery paths in overcoming addiction. Mary Alice's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of support, and the joy of giving back. Dive into this heartfelt conversation and follow Mary Alice's journey on Instagram.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration or battling their own personal struggles.

ABOUT MARY ALICE O’HARA:

Mary Alice O'Hara is a beacon of resilience and transformation. Her life story is a testament to the power of determination, community support, and personal growth. Once gripped by alcohol addiction and depression, Mary Alice has emerged from her struggles with a newfound strength and purpose. Her journey to sobriety, which began at the age of 61, is a testament to the fact that it's never too late to change your life. Today, she is a passionate advocate for sobriety and mental health, using her experiences to educate and inspire others who may be facing similar challenges.

Follow Mary Alice's journey and connect with her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mary_alice_ohara/. Here, she continues to share her personal experiences, nuggets of wisdom, and uplifting messages of hope and resilience. Her account is a safe and supportive space for anyone seeking inspiration or battling their own personal struggles. Mary Alice's life is a testament to the fact that no matter how dark things may seem, there is always a way out and a path towards a brighter future.

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