In this deeply personal episode 9 of "Roads to Recovery," host Jim Russell introduces the courageous journey of Kat, a woman who has struggled with substance use disorder, but ultimately found hope and renewal on her path to sobriety.

Kat recounts her early years, growing up in a loving home yet struggling with ADHD, learning disabilities, and persistent bullying that eroded her self-esteem. Seeking escape and validation, she spiraled into substance use in her teens—first marijuana, then prescription drugs, alcohol, and eventually cocaine. Kat reveals the painful realities of substance use disorder: abusive relationships, the loss of control, legal troubles, and the heartbreak of stealing from loved ones to feed her habit.

A turning point for Kat was discovering she was pregnant. Determined to change for her child, she experienced her longest period of sobriety, only to then relapse and realize she'd never be able to be a "functioning alcoholic." Kat's story is one of repeated struggle, denial, and ultimately, acceptance—realizing that she was not in control of her substance use and that true recovery required honesty and commitment.

As Kat shares her triumphs and setbacks, she highlights the importance of structure, mental health support, and the unwavering love of family. She speaks candidly about the daily challenges of recovery, her hopes for the future, and the relief of finally feeling happy in her own skin—free from substances and self-doubt.

Join us for this inspiring episode of "Roads to Recovery" as we explore resilience, vulnerability, and the enduring possibility of healing.

In this 8th episode of the "Roads to Recovery" podcast, host Jim Russell shares the compelling story of Chris, whose life was profoundly affected by substance use disorder and brushes with the law. Chris opens up about his difficult upbringing, early exposure to drugs and alcohol, and the absence of a father figure, all factors that contributed to his struggles. He describes his descent into substance use disorder, the chaotic years that followed, and the pivotal moment when court intervention and distance from his family motivated him to seek help.

Listeners will follow Chris’s journey from skepticism and reluctance at mandated support groups to genuine engagement with Celebrate Recovery, where the support of others and a renewed sense of purpose helped him reclaim his life. The episode features honest reflections on relapse, tough love from those closest to him, and the ongoing challenges of building a stable, sober life as a welder, partner, and father. Insights from group leaders and friends highlight the importance of community, personal motivation, and the reality that every recovery journey is unique.

Chris’s story is a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and that recovery is possible for anyone. This episode is a must-watch for anyone seeking inspiration, understanding, or encouragement on the path to healing.

In this eye-opening episode 7 of "Roads to Recovery," host Jim Russell sits down with Vaya, a clinical director from New Directions, to share her story of substance use disorder, loss, and hard-won transformation. For the first time publicly, Vaya recounts a lifelong battle with substance use, beginning in childhood amidst a family history of substance use disorder and instability. Listeners are taken on a raw journey through the depths of alcoholism, brushes with the law, and the profound impact substance use disorder had not only on her own life but also on her relationships with family and friends.

She reveals her cycles of pain and desperation, including struggles with mental health and a suicide attempt, and the pivotal moments that sparked her commitment to change, including the birth of her daughter and the realization that her actions affect far more than just herself. The episode explores the difficult process of rebuilding trust, seeking treatment, and finding stability through community, faith, and a dedication to helping others in recovery.

If you or a loved one needs support, reach out to a local mental health provider and know that a different life is within reach. Tune in for an episode that is as inspiring as it is real, offering empathy, encouragement, and the assurance that it’s never too late to choose a new direction for yourself and your loved ones.