i am somebody

Change can be exciting, overwhelming, and honestly… a little scary. Through taking unexpected opportunities, learning through uncertainty, and building confidence along the way, this episode explores what it means to try something new even when you don’t feel fully ready.For more information on FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community, visit our websitehttps://focusrwc.org/Directory for all Hancock County Ohio Resourceshttps://www.hancockhelps.org/

In this short update episode, we’re sharing a few important changes and what’s coming next for the i am somebody podcast.We’re taking a brief pause from releasing new episodes as we work behind the scenes on a new season, with plans to return around March. You’ll also hear a quick update about some transitions with the podcast, including a change in hosting and where to find us on social media moving forward.Thank you for being here and for listening. We’ll be back soon.

Many of you have asked the question: what exactly is peer support?In this episode, we break down what peer support is and why lived experience matters so much within the recovery community. We explore how peer support looks in real life, the roles peer supporters play, and how this approach promotes healing in ways traditional support sometimes can’t. Whether you’re new to the concept or have heard the term before, join us as we discuss what it’s like to be a peer supporter and how someone can become one.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!

In this episode, we explore the healing power of being outside and why nature can feel so grounding for our minds and bodies. From fresh air and sunlight to the way being outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood, and help us reconnect with what truly matters, we talk about both the emotional and scientific reasons nature matters. This episode is a gentle reminder to step outside, even if it is for a few minutes. **Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!

Join us for this mini episode about caffeine and the role it plays in our lives. Sometimes we need a cup of coffee to get through the day, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. But other times, caffeine can interfere with sleep, increase anxiety, or leave us feeling more on edge. In this episode, we talk about finding balance and paying attention to how caffeine affects us individually without judging ourselves. **Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!

In this short episode, we talk with Max, Hannah, and Angalina about their approach to New Years resolutions. Join us to hear about how goals can be helpful, but sometimes they make the winter months even harder, and remind ourselves to give ourselves time to make positive and lasting changes.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!

We’re joined by special guest Christina for a long-overdue check-in. Together, we talk about her journey at FOCUS, how the experience has shaped her both personally and professionally, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Christina also opens up about her upcoming transition as she prepares to leave FOCUS to pursue her CDCA and what this next chapter means to her. **Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *

Do you ever recognize that you hold on to anger or fear for far too long? What do you think would happen if you deciding to accept whatever happens, do you think your life would be better? Today, we dive into the world of radical acceptance. We have a discussion about how we can use this tool in our every day lives to find peace and remember that sometimes we don't have control (and that's okay!).**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *References: verywellmind.com

Have you ever hit the winter months and thought, “Why am I exhausted for no reason?” or felt just a little off without being able to explain it? If that sounds familiar, this episode has your name all over it.This week we are talking about Seasonal Affective Disorder. It truly messes with your brain and we need to know why: why it shows up when the days get shorter, and what you can actually do to take back some control. Give us ten minutes, and you’ll walk away understanding yourself a little better.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *References: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - Symptoms & causes - Mayo ClinicEasing Seasonal Depression: 14 Tips

In this episode, we dive into the topic of values, what they are, how they shape who we are, and how understanding them can completely change the way we make decisions and move through life. We often talk about “values,” but rarely stop to define what they truly mean to us. Together, we explore what it means to live in alignment with what matters most, and how one of the most powerful values we can hold is self-respect. Because when we lose sight of our values, we can start to feel resentful. We talk about how to identify your core values and what they really mean to you, why living out of alignment often leads to burnout and people-pleasing, and how reconnecting with your sense of self through self-respect and boundaries can help you find peace again. There’s also a simple reflection exercise to help you realign with what truly matters.When we start living by our values, life doesn’t magically get easier, but it over time, we learn and grow from them. We stop chasing approval and start living with intention, confidence, and calm. So grab a notebook or just listen in, and let’s take some time to come hone into what matters most: ourselves.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *

This episode explains how the body’s stress response often becomes over-activated by everyday situations. Our nervous system can misinterpret modern stressors like notifications or work pressure as real danger, triggering the same “fight, flight, or freeze” reaction once needed to escape predators.For people with anxiety, this alarm system is especially sensitive. Their bodies may react strongly to harmless events, creating “false alarms” where the body believes it’s in danger before the mind can assess what’s really happening. Over time, this cycle can lead to constant exhaustion and a disconnect between body and mind.The episode explores how we can retrain the nervous system to feel safe again. Grounding techniques, intentional rest, slow breathing, and supportive relationships help teach the body that it is no longer under threat. With practice, the nervous system learns to stand down, reducing overreaction and restoring balance.Ultimately, understanding these reactions helps us approach anxiety with compassion rather than frustration. By listening to the body’s signals and responding gently, we can build a greater sense of safety and feel more at ease in daily life.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!Music: Pixabay “music_for_video” easy lifestyle*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *

*Time Stamp* 4:12- 5:45 warningWhy do so many new mothers suffer in silence? In this week’s episode, we have a heartfelt conversation about postpartum depression. What it really is, why it’s often misunderstood, and how societal expectations keep many women from speaking up.From the hormonal rollercoaster after birth to the hidden emotional struggles behind the “perfect mom” image, this episode explores the difference between the baby blues, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis — and the stigma that still surrounds each one.We also discuss powerful insights from a short interview, and real online communities where mothers tell their unfiltered truths: what it feels like to lose yourself after giving birth, to love your baby deeply and still feel detached, or to fear judgment for not being “grateful enough.”This conversation isn’t just for parents, it’s for anyone who wants to better understand, support, and listen. Because no one should have to navigate motherhood, or mental health, in silence.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Warning*This podcast episode addresses sensitive topics, including trauma, postpartum depression, post-partum psychosis. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a professional or a trusted individual. Your well-being is important.*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *Pixabay Music by AlexGrohl References: Postpartum Hormones: Effects and Timing of ImbalancesPostpartum psychiatric disorders: Early diagnosis and management - PMCHow did you know you had postpartum depression? : r/beyondthebumppostpartum is way harder than i was ever warned about : r/newbornsReddit - The heart of the internetStigma and Postpartum Depression • Erie County Anti Stigma Coalition | Join The Conversation

Why does navigating anything these days feel so difficult? In this episode, we talk about what it’s like to move through the healthcare system, especially while in recovery. From calling a doctor to affording care, it can feel like the system was built to keep people out. We name the problems, sit with the frustration, and explore what we can still do about it. Come along with me as we talk about how things could be different.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *References: CDC – FastStats: Health Insurance CoveragePeterson-KFF Health System Tracker – The Burden of Medical Debt in the United StatesNPR – The Cost of Having a Baby in AmericaAmerican College of Surgeons – The U.S. Healthcare System Is in Crisis

It all started with those flashing signs that I couldn't ignore that said K-R-A-T-O-M. From there I went down a rabbit hole into the world of vape shops, Delta-8/9 THC, and the blurry line between what legal and what is actually safe. In this episode, we'll talk about loopholes that let these unregulated products hit the shelves, why people turn to them in times of need, and what "regulation" really means when it comes to protecting our health. Whether you've seen these signs around or never heard of Kratom yourself, this one's worth a listen.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *References: Colorado Cannabis (n.d.). Is Delta THC legal in Colorado? Retrieved from https://coloradocannabis.org/thc/delta-thc NCIA / The Cannabis Industry (2023, November 9). Where Is Delta-8 THC Legal and Where Is It Banned? CBD Oracle’s Map Has the Answers. Retrieved from https://thecannabisindustry.org/member-blog-where-is-delta-8-thc-legal-and-where-is-it-banned-cbd-oracles-map-has-the-answers/ U.S. Food & Drug Administration (n.d.). 5 Things to Know about Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/5-things-know-about-delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol-delta-8-thc  

Building community looks different to everyone, maybe it's your favorite barista who always remembers your order, or a neighbor who waves to you on your way to work. In this episode, we talk about what it actually means to find your people and how to start putting yourself out there (even if it sounds terrifying). We'll also chat about how identity, curiosity, and connection can change our lives. Join me on this path of self-discovery. **Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *

In this episode, Amber gets real about growing up in the Midwest and the quiet expectations that followed her into adulthood. Bravely, she explains her experience with childhood trauma and parental relationship issues. Through sharing her journey of leaving Ohio for California, she reflects on relationships, identity shifts, and the chaos of figuring life out in your twenties. Mostly, she’s just trying to answer one question: Was I running away, or running toward something? Join us in exploring this question."There is so much confidence in self discovery."-Amber*Warning*This podcast episode addresses sensitive topics, including trauma and mental illness. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a professional or a trusted individual. Your well-being is important.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *

Abigail returns to I Am Somebody to share more of her lived experience with schizoaffective disorder. In this episode, she dives into new challenges, personal growth, and the ways her journey has shaped her work in the helping profession. With a background in science, Abigail offers a unique perspective on mental health, blending personal experience with professional insight. Tune in for an honest, eye-opening conversation about resilience, self-acceptance, and breaking down stigma."Your feelings are valid""You don't know how many people in your close network are dealing this."- Abigail*Warning*This podcast episode addresses sensitive topics, including substance use, and mental illness. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a professional or a trusted individual. Your well-being is important.**Information**If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help!*Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *

In this episode, Max and Grace welcomed Nannette to share her story with the recovery community. Through her journey of resilience and courage, Nanette reminds us that healing is possible and that no one has to walk this path alone. Her experiences have shaped her into who she is today, and she hopes to instill hope and inspiration in everyone who listens. She aims to expose the realities of human trafficking and how it impacts individuals just like us. Join us as we discuss her harrowing story of bravery, strength, and heartache. "It took a long time to get out of that environment...a long time to realize that I am loved and to love myself." "This was just...12 years of never giving up on myself." - Nanette *Warning* This podcast episode addresses sensitive topics, including substance use, mental illness, human trafficking, and abuse. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a professional or a trusted individual. Your well-being is important. **Information** If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help! *Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company. *

Welcome back to I Am Somebody, the podcast where we celebrate resilience, recovery, and the power of sharing our stories. In this episode we sit down with Shannon, a passionate advocate for the recovery community and a sports enthusiast with a heart for helping others. Shannon brings a fresh perspective to the conversation, sharing her compelling personal recovery journey and how it has fueled her commitment to inspire and empower others facing similar challenges. Tune in to hear her story, insights, and the uplifting message she has for anyone navigating recovery. "This was just...12 years of never giving up on myself" *Warning* This podcast episode addresses sensitive topics, including substance use and mental illness. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a professional or a trusted individual. Your well-being is important. **Information** If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠⁠focusrwc.org⁠⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help! Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company.

In this episode, we welcomed back a truly inspiring guest, Nicole, who returns to share an update with our community. Since her last appearance, Nicole has navigated a series of highs and lows, and we’re excited to hear how she’s been growing and adapting to life’s challenges. Nicole is not only a resilient and dedicated individual but also a key member of the FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community, where she serves as the supervisor for the Leveraging Peer Support Services grant. Through her work, she helps provide essential support to individuals in Hancock County, Ohio, who are facing mental health struggles, substance use challenges, and trauma. Join us as we catch up with Nicole, hear her powerful story, and learn more about the transformative impact she’s making in her community. "I wanted to continue to grow." - Nicole *Warning* This podcast episode addresses sensitive topics, including substance use and mental illness. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a professional or a trusted individual. Your well-being is important. **Information** If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at ⁠focusrwc.org⁠ to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help! Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company.

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Carrie, a remarkable young woman who shares her inspiring story of recovery from substance use. Carrie opens up about her struggles, the pivotal moments that led her to seek help, and the transformative power of her higher power in guiding her through the darkest times. She emphasizes the importance of community and support, expressing deep gratitude for the friends, family, and mentors who stood by her side on her journey to healing. Join us as Carrie’s candid reflections illuminate the path to recovery, resilience, and the profound connections that help us rise from our challenges. This episode is a testament to the hope and the strength of individuals in recovery. "I needed to rewash my brain so I could live a better life." -Carrie *Warning* This podcast episode addresses sensitive topics, including substance use and mental illness. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a professional or a trusted individual. Your well-being is important. **Information** If you’re looking for resources, you can contact FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community at (419) 423-5071. You can also visit us at 509 Trenton Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840. We’re here to support you in your recovery journey, whatever that looks like. If you would like to support this podcast visit us at focusrwc.org to donate or give us a call to ask how you can help! Marketing support was provided by Amber Kear of the Hysteria Company.

The Peer Advisory Partnership of Hancock County shares their history, mission, and background. Listen in to learn about each member and what led them to join the partnership. "Impactful Choices Need Peer Voices"

Kenny shares his experience, strength, and hope with our listeners! "Be happy right now"

Ty takes us through his personal recovery journey and explains how the gift of sobriety has presented him with some very unique and special opportunities. A few of these opportunities include Ty starting his own podcast about recovery and becoming a published author. Listen to his story here and be sure to check out his recovery Podcast "Long Term Podcast". Also be on the lookout for his book "Surviving Addiction One Day at a Time" which drops this Fall! "Get help! Don't be afraid of it, just do it! If I can do it, anyone can do it!" -Ty

Stacy takes us through her recovery journey and talks about the people and pathways that were most instrumental on her journey. "You deserve recovery and you deserve to love yourself."

Nicole shares her story and how she started her own non-profit Operation Lean on Me. "We all need someone to lean on"

Cass shares their journey from childhood to present day and how they utilize their coping skills today to help improve their mental health "It Gets Better" -Cass

Jenna tells her recovery journey and shares how learning to care for and love herself saved her. "It's a rough day, not a rough life."

Sara shares about her personal recovery journey and the work that has lead up to her starting her own recovery community organization, Project White Butterfly.

Katie shares about her experience working in the harm reduction field in Pennsylvania and what she is seeing in her community. "Harm reduction is love"

Whitney shares the details of her recovery journey and the gratitude she has for her life today. "We do Recover"

Kaliya shares her story and her path to self love

Laura shares how she's learned to heal from trauma and accept who she is

Listen to Christina share her journey of recovery and her path to learning to love herself. "We live outloud and tell our story".

Liv shares their journey and how they have persevered and overcame obstacles.

DJ shares how her personal experiences lead her to her career in social work

FOCUS and NAMI staff share about their resources and what they offer.

Abigale shares about PTSD and CPTSD and how she continues to overcome trauma from her past and lean to heal.

Elizabeth shares about working in a domestic violence shelter, their services, and her own lived experience.

Linda shares her story and talks about the importance of opening up

Participants at Recovery Palooza share what recovery means to them.

John from On the Road of Recovery shares his own experiences and how it helped guide him to his current role.

Carla from Welcome to a New Life talks about what it takes to be a mentor and mentee and what brought her to work for Welcome to a New Life

Halee comes onto the podcast to talk about postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety and childhood trauma

Ed comes onto the podcast to promote his Fostoria Mental Health Awareness Day event Facebook: Fostoria Mental Health Awareness Day

Destinie talks about her struggles with functional neurologic disorder and how it affects her life today

Kate talks about setting boundaries with family and friends

Kaisen talks about what it was like to come out and be themselves in the LGBTQIA+ community

anna joins us to talk about her struggles with bullying and how it helped her to start her own inclusive business

the NAMI Hancock County team introduces themselves and comes together to discuss may being mental health month