In this heartfelt conversation, Kelsey shares her profound journey through grief and resilience following the tragic loss of her brother, Jake, who died shortly after her wedding. Kelsey reflects on the impact of addiction, the importance of mental health awareness, and how her experiences have shaped her perspective on life, motherhood, and personal growth. She emphasizes the need for open conversations about grief and addiction, and how she aims to honor her brother's memory by advocating for awareness and support for those struggling with similar issues.

In this conversation, Megan interviews Will Gordon, who shares his powerful journey from alcoholism to recovery. Will discusses the challenges he faced, including a near-fatal liver condition that led to a transplant. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, self-kindness, and the impact of second chances in life. The discussion also touches on the significance of helping others and the ongoing journey of recovery, highlighting that it's never too late to seek help and change one's life.

In this episode of the Reckless Optimist podcast, Megan interviews Ashley, who shares her profound journey through trauma, loss, and resilience. Ashley recounts her childhood experiences with a father struggling with addiction and the impact it had on her family. The conversation delves into the tragic loss of her mother and the subsequent challenges she faced as a young adult. Through therapy and personal growth, Ashley emphasizes the importance of healing, forgiveness, and the strength found in vulnerability. The episode highlights the significance of mental health, family dynamics, and the journey towards self-acceptance and love.

In this episode of the Reckless Optimist podcast, host Megan welcomes Michael, a passionate advocate for sobriety and mental health. Michael shares his journey of overcoming alcohol use disorder, the impact of self-limiting beliefs, and the importance of community support in recovery. He discusses the role of surrendering control, the significance of service in recovery, and how living authentically has transformed his life. The conversation emphasizes the power of sharing stories and the journey towards finding freedom in one's true self.

In this episode, Megan interviews Kenny, who shares his inspiring journey from battling alcoholism to becoming an ultra runner. Kenny discusses the importance of community in recovery, the challenges he faced during his first year of sobriety, and the impact of gastric bypass surgery on his addiction. He emphasizes the significance of self-love and personal growth, as well as the lessons learned through parenting and being a role model for his son. The conversation highlights the power of resilience and the ongoing journey of recovery.

In this episode, Megan interviews Tanya, a holistic wellness practitioner specializing in recovery from substance use and chronic health conditions. Tanya shares her personal journey with alcohol, the challenges of early recovery, and the importance of community support. They discuss the power of neuroplasticity, the blessings of clarity in sobriety, and Tanya's mission to help women in recovery through her holistic wellness business. The conversation emphasizes the significance of peace and personal growth in the recovery journey.

In this episode, Megan interviews Gary, who shares his incredible journey from a life of addiction to one of recovery and purpose. Gary discusses the importance of community, the power of a growth mindset, and the transformative impact of sobriety on his life. He reflects on his early struggles, the consequences of his actions, and the pivotal moments that led him to seek help. Gary also talks about the launch of his clothing brand, RCVR, which aims to support those in recovery and promote a healthy lifestyle. Throughout the conversation, themes of resilience, personal growth, and the importance of connection are highlighted, making for an inspiring and uplifting episode.

In this conversation, Blake shares his inspiring journey from struggling with alcohol addiction to finding sobriety and purpose in life. He discusses the challenges he faced, including family disruptions, feelings of isolation, and the impact of his addiction on relationships. Blake emphasizes the importance of seeking help, the role of service in recovery, and the lessons learned through his experiences. Now a therapist at the same treatment center where he found help, Blake embodies resilience and hope for others facing similar struggles.