Archways' Threads

Welcome to Archways' Threads, a podcast exploring the tapestry of recovery and family support. In this episode, host Michelle Lennon is joined again by Cara LaPlante, now a Wellness Initiative Coordinator and peer recovery coach. This conversation marks the beginning of a four-part series exploring the shift from consequence-based goals to identity-based goal setting. They discuss the limitations of traditional task management in recovery and how our internal belief systems, both empowering and limiting, shape our ability to maintain long-term growth.Key Takeaways:00:00 – Intro: Michelle introduces Cara, highlighting her work in collegiate recovery and her national speaking engagements on youth peer support.01:56 – Crisis Navigation and Concrete Needs: Cara describes the initial phase of recovery coaching, which often focuses on "task-driven" goals like securing housing, food security, and obtaining vital identification.03:33 – The Intake Process: The duo discusses the use of surveys, such as the BARC-10 (Brief Assessment of Recovery Capital), to establish a baseline while remaining participant-driven.05:05 – The Stability Plateau: Cara explains that while some participants stay connected to pursue "higher level" goals like education or careers, many disengage once their initial crisis needs are met.07:38 – Why Tasks Don't Equal Lasting Change: Michelle notes that once a specific consequence is reached (like losing weight or finishing a program), daily actions often stop because there is no longer a target or requirement in front of the person.11:22 – The Power of Beliefs: Michelle and Cara define "limiting beliefs" as certainties that restrict our potential, while "empowering beliefs" provide the confidence to take action.13:07 – Auditing Your Inner Truth: Cara discusses the importance of looking past labels like "resistant" to understand the inner truths and stigmas—such as "I'm just a junkie"—that prevent participants from seeking help.22:17 – Family Values and Recovery Lifestyles: Michelle shares personal stories about how family values regarding religion, waste, and substance use shaped her own trajectory and identity.This episode highlights the reality that while structure and "checking boxes" can help someone survive a crisis, they aren't always enough to help a person thrive long-term. Recovery is ultimately a "learning curve" about oneself. By identifying the "negative tapes" in our heads and replacing them with an identity-based "Why," we can reprogram our brains to view challenges as opportunities for progress rather than failures.If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

Part 1 of this discussion – https://share.transistor.fm/s/fe7c6505 In this episode of Archways' Threads, host Michelle Lennon continues her previous discussion with Marina, a participant in the Archways' Family Threads program. Marina shares her journey from addiction and homelessness to recovery and stability as a new mother. She discusses the importance of setting boundaries, seeking therapy, and having a supportive network to help prevent relapses. Marina and Michelle also talk about the resilience and growth mindset that helped Marina and her partner overcome obstacles and build a new life for their family. Key Takeaways: 00:00 – Intro 01:33 - Speaking Your Truth: Marina emphasizes the importance of using your voice and setting boundaries to stay in recovery, even when faced with resistance, manipulation, or guilt from others. 02:35 - The Power of Therapy: Marina discusses the value of seeking professional support, like therapy, to heal from past trauma and cope with new emotions in recovery. 04:00 - Resilience in Action: Michelle highlights the family's resilience, noting their journey from homelessness and addiction to finding a stable life and a home. 04:47 - Archways' Support: Marina explains how Archways connected her family with essential services that put them up in a hotel until they secured housing, which was a huge relief during her high-risk pregnancy. 07:52 - Breaking Generational Cycles: Marina and Michelle discuss how the family has interrupted generational cycles of poverty and violence. Marina expresses her determination to ensure her son does not experience the same struggles she went through. 09:19 - Healing Past Pain: Marina shares how having her own child helped heal the pain of feeling like she didn't fit in with her adoptive family and contributed to her feeling heard. 10:25 - Recovering as a Team: Marina and her partner's recovery journey together fostered a lot of compassion, love, and growth for each other. 11:40 - Identity-Based Motivation: Michelle explains that recovery is often more successful when tied to identity-based goals, such as wanting to be an amazing parent, rather than just checking boxes or avoiding consequences. 18:58 - Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Marina's advice for others in recovery is to not be afraid to reach out for help and to give yourself a chance. This episode offers a direct and honest look at the realities of long-term recovery. Marina's story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn't just about abstaining from substances: it's about building a new life and healing from past trauma. It's about setting new goals, creating a safe family environment, and having a support system that sees you as a whole person, not just an addiction. Her journey from crisis to stability shows that with genuine support and unwavering effort, a family can change the trajectory of their lives and create a beautiful, sober future for themselves and their child. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

A Family's Journey from Crisis to Stability – Part 1In this episode, Archway’s CEO Michelle Lennon, one of the co-authors of the Family Threads Curriculum, speaks with a family who successfully completed the program. Marina and Star share their journey from experiencing homelessness and active addiction to finding stability and hope. They discuss how peer recovery support and family support services helped them build a new life for themselves and their young son. This episode is a testament to the power of human connection, nonjudgmental support, and the unwavering resolve of families to create a better future.Key Takeaways00:00 - Intro01:30 - Seeking Support The family decided to join the Family Threads program out of a desperate need for resources after a period of active addiction, despite initial reluctance to ask for help.02:15 - Post-Treatment Challenges After leaving their treatment program, the family realized they lacked the tools needed to continue their recovery and had to find housing and a vehicle on their own to prepare for their baby's arrival.03:21 - The Leap of Faith The family completed program assessments that felt invasive, but they realized they had to take a "leap of faith" and be vulnerable in order to move forward.06:32 - Perseverance Pays Off They endured the stressful process of submitting over 200 housing applications and receiving 12 rejections before finally securing a place to live, highlighting the importance of perseverance.09:38 - The Power of Peer Support Having a peer recovery support worker was critical in helping them manage stress and stay on track, as their coaches provided emotional validation and treated them with humanity.13:11 - Recovering Together The couple chose to enter recovery as a team, strengthening their relationship by supporting each other through their individual struggles despite receiving pushback from others.17:04 - Breaking Generational Cycles Having grown up in chaotic homes, they made a conscious decision to create a peaceful environment for their son by communicating openly instead of arguing.21:13 - Ongoing Support Recovery support workers provide the vital, long-term help needed to cope with real-life challenges and focus on personal healing and growth.This episode offers a powerful and honest look at the realities of long-term recovery. Marina and Star’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn't just about abstaining from substances — it's about building a new life and healing from past trauma. It's about setting new goals, creating a safe family environment, and having a support system that sees you as a whole person, not just an addiction. Their journey from crisis to stability shows that with genuine support and unwavering effort, a family can change the trajectory of their lives and create a beautiful, sober future for themselves and their child.

A Conversation with Carina Raya – Part 4 In this episode of Archways' Threads, we conclude our four-part conversation with Carina Raya and Archways' CEO, Michelle Lennon. They explore the intricate process of integrating one's past self with their current identity in recovery, emphasizing that recovery is a dynamic and evolving journey rather than a static endpoint. The discussion dives deep into the nuances of sharing personal narratives for advocacy, highlighting the importance of strategic communication and the ongoing effort to combat pervasive societal stigma. This conversation provides invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of recovery, the critical role of peer and family support, and the necessity of fostering environments conducive to long-term well-being. Key Takeaways00:00 - Introduction00:46 - The Long Journey of Integration02:40 - Value Your Whole Self, Past and Present06:40 - Purposeful Story Sharing for Advocacy09:15 - Leveraging Technology for Tailored Narratives11:27 - Mentorship Refines Advocacy Stories 14:48 - Navigating Public Gratitude as an Advocate 20:51 - Recovery-Friendly Work Policies 24:20 - Recovery Education is Essential for Medical Students  This episode offers a deeply personal and practical look at the ongoing process of recovery. Michelle and Carina’s candid conversation provides valuable insights into the continuous growth involved in recovery, the vital role of peer and family support, and the strategic approach to advocacy.  If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

A Conversation with Carina Raya – Part 3 In part 3 of our discussion with Carina Raya, we explore the complexities of recovery and why building supportive communities is so crucial. We discuss how nonjudgmental interactions significantly impact a person's recovery journey. Carina shares her personal experiences, highlighting how genuine connections—even casual conversations—can influence someone's path to recovery, even if results aren't immediately obvious. Our conversation also highlights the often-overlooked challenges individuals in recovery face, especially when it comes to sharing their stories and advocating for themselves. We talk about how storytelling can be both empowering and expose people to the risk of being objectified. We agree it's vital to approach advocacy carefully, recognizing that recovery often intertwines with how society perceives and judges individuals. Key Takeaways:0:00 – Introduction2:22 – The Importance of Connection6:16 – The Role of Advocacy in Recovery7:09 – Cautionary Tales of Sharing Stories9:59 – Experiences in Advocacy17:33 – Breaking Stereotypes in Recovery22:04 – Barriers to Accessing Care23:38 – Uniting the Recovery Community Ultimately, this conversation reinforces that recovery is a shared community experience. Carina passionately argues that unifying diverse approaches—from substance abstinence to harm reduction—can help more people find their way into recovery. She encourages listeners to reflect on their perceptions, urging a collective effort to embrace a broader understanding of recovery, as fostering inclusion and empathy will ultimately benefit everyone. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

A Conversation with Carina Raya – Part 2 In this insightful episode of Archways' Threads, host Michelle Lennon continues her compelling conversation with Carina Raya, delving deeper into the critical issues surrounding addiction, harm reduction, and public health policy. They shed light on the stark realities of the overdose crisis and challenge conventional approaches to substance use, advocating for evidence-based solutions and compassionate care. This discussion highlights the profound impact of policy decisions on individual lives and community well-being, emphasizing the need for understanding and support over judgment and punitive measures. Key Takeaways: 00:00 - Introduction00:44 - The Overdose Crisis as a National Emergency01:56 - Harm Reduction's Role in Saving Lives03:59 - Investing in Public Health Programs is Fiscally Responsible08:32 - Overdose Prevention Centers Offer Measurable Community Benefits10:17 - Why Punishment Doesn't Work19:10 - Addiction is a Compulsion, Not a Moral Failing25:50 - Compassionate Connection Fosters Long-Term Recovery This episode passionately argues for a paradigm shift in how society addresses substance use, advocating for policies rooted in compassion, public health, and evidence. By sharing personal stories and compelling data, Michelle and Carina powerfully illustrate that harm reduction strategies not only save lives but also lead to significant societal and economic benefits. Their conversation serves as a vital call to action, urging listeners to consider the profound positive impact of supporting individuals on their recovery journeys through accessible, non-judgmental services and programs. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

A Conversation with Carina Raya – Part 1 In part one of this four-part interview, host Michelle Lennon, CEO of Archways, engages in a powerful conversation with Carina Raya, a remarkable student at George Washington University heading to med school with a strong focus on public health. This first discussion centers around the critical importance of sharing personal stories to advocate for recovery support services, especially in the face of funding cuts and the ongoing challenges within the peer recovery and public health fields. Carina shares her own compelling journey and insights into how lived experience can drive meaningful change. Key Takeaways: 00:00 - Introduction00:28 - The Urgency of Advocacy Amidst Funding Cuts04:21 - From Chaos to Credentials06:35 - The Lifeline of Public Safety Nets07:54 - Vocational Rehabilitation - A Catalyst for Change10:14 - Navigating the Complexities of Story Sharing 12:47 - Recovery as a Multifaceted Journey, Not a Single Cure16:34 - Evolving Perspectives and the Power of Long-Range Vision 19:01 - Lived Experience as a Tool for Systemic Change 21:20 - The Pervasiveness of Stigma in Healthcare 24:00 - Solution-Focused Advocacy in the Face of Crisis This episode powerfully illustrates the vital role of personal narratives in shaping policy and improving services for individuals in recovery. Carina’s story serves as an inspiring example of resilience and the potential for individuals with lived experience to become powerful advocates for change. The conversation underscores the importance of addressing stigma, promoting holistic approaches to recovery, and ensuring that the voices of those impacted by substance use are heard in the ongoing effort to build a more supportive and effective system. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

In this episode of Archways' Threads, host Michelle Lennon interviews Darryl Lennon about his experiences navigating major surgeries while maintaining his recovery. Darryl shares his journey, starting with his initial addiction after a severe accident, through years of hardship and recovery, and finally, his strategies for managing pain medication post-surgery. This conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of maintaining sobriety while facing necessary medical interventions and offers valuable insights for others in similar situations. Key Takeaways00:00 - Introduction01:53 - The Onset of Addiction03:31 - Transition to Self-Medication06:13 - Balancing Pain Management and Recovery08:26 - Experiences with Healthcare Providers14:44 - Strategies for Managing Pain Medication17:05 - The Importance of Trusted Support24:19 - The Role of Faith in Recovery Darryl's story is a powerful reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining recovery while facing medical challenges. His candid discussion about the difficulties of pain management, the importance of trusted support, and the role of faith offers invaluable guidance for anyone navigating similar circumstances. By sharing his experiences, Darryl underscores the importance of open communication with healthcare providers, the critical role of peer support, and the necessity of self-awareness in maintaining long-term recovery. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com. 

A Conversation with Cara LaPlante – Part 2Link to Part 1 - https://share.transistor.fm/s/1f166bb7  Welcome to another episode of Archways' Threads! This podcast explores the threads of family and recovery support services that weave together the tapestry of life in recovery. In this episode, we continue our conversation with Cara LaPlante, diving deeper into her journey of collegiate recovery, her role in the recovery community, and the impact of creating recovery-friendly spaces on college campuses. Join host Michelle Lennon, CEO of Archways, as she and Cara discuss how personal experiences and community support can drive change and foster a culture of recovery. Key Takeaways: 00:00 – Introduction 02:38 - Cara’s Introduction to Recovery04:56 - The “Panther Pitch” and Collegiate Recovery Advocacy07:56 - Breaking the Stigma and Finding Community10:06 - The Role of Culture in Recovery Support12:05 - Overcoming Isolation in the College Experience15:12 - Creating Alcohol-Free Social Spaces19:35 - Sustainability and the Future of Recovery Programs Cara’s story is a testament to the power of recovery support and the impact of creating inclusive, stigma-free environments for those in recovery. Through her advocacy, she has helped shine a light on the necessity of collegiate recovery programs and the value of community in sustaining recovery. As this conversation continues, we encourage listeners to think about how they can contribute to fostering recovery-friendly spaces in their own communities. Thank you for tuning in to Archways' Threads! We’ll see you next time for more inspiring stories and discussions on peer and family recovery support. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

A Conversation with Cara LaPlante – Part 1 Welcome to Archways' Threads, a podcast exploring the tapestry of recovery and family support. This episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for anyone interested in enhancing their well-being and supporting others in their recovery journey. Our host, Michelle Lennon, CEO of Archways, introduces Cara LaPlante, a college student and recent addition to the Archways team. We'll explore the power of peer support, the importance of finding what works for you, and how reconnecting with loved ones can unlock unexpected paths to wellness. Get ready to be inspired as we unravel the threads of recovery and weave a stronger sense of well-being. Key Takeaways·         00:00 – Introduction·         00:28 - Importance of Peer Support and Building Resilience·         02:08 - Making Wellness Accessible and Engaging·         06:12 - Mindfulness and Breathwork for Stress Reduction·         08:48 - The Impact of Stress on the Body and the Benefits of Mindfulness Techniques·         09:38 - Self-Care and the Importance of Individualized Approaches·         14:51 - Tying Goals to Identity for Long-Term Success·         23:52 - Focusing on Wellness in Recovery Opens New Possibilities  This episode of Archways' Threads explores how focusing on wellness can be a powerful tool in recovery. From simple breathing exercises to redefining self-care and prioritizing relationships, you’ll learn that finding joy and fulfillment can come from unexpected places. Remember, there are multiple pathways to wellness, and the key is to find what resonates with you. Embrace the journey, experiment with different approaches, and celebrate the small victories along the way.  If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and is unsure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

A Conversation with Karen Welford – Part 3 Listen to part one of this conversation here - https://share.transistor.fm/s/19935724Listen to part two of this conversation here - https://share.transistor.fm/s/f2130591 In this final installment of our three-part series, Michelle Lennon concludes her insightful conversation with Karen Welford about the transformative power of the strengthening families framework. Together, they delve into the five protective factors and discuss their application in family support practices across the U.S. Learn how these principles empower families, foster resilience, and strengthen communities.  Key Takeaways00:00 - Intro 00:28 - Introduction to the Five Protective Factors01:20 - The Evolution of Protective Factors in Family Resource Centers03:01 - Parental Resilience and Growth04:17 - Building Resilience Through Problem Solving08:38 - The Importance of Healthy Social Connections14:15 - Concrete Supports in Times of Need19:31 - Realistic Expectations for Child Development20:15 - Parenting Education and Substance Recovery The strengthening families framework equips family support professionals with tools to address challenges holistically. Karen highlights the role of relationship-building and nonjudgmental attitudes as foundational qualities in family support workers. These principles help families navigate crises, find stability, and build a brighter future. Families often seek support during times of acute stress, such as food insecurity or financial emergencies. Karen and Michelle share inspiring examples of how timely assistance can be a lifeline, preventing cascading challenges. By fostering trusting relationships, family support workers enable families to identify and address underlying issues beyond immediate crises. Parent education emerges as a recurring theme throughout the conversation. Michelle’s personal story of transforming her parenting approach illustrates the profound impact of knowledge and empathy. By emphasizing the importance of emotional competence and realistic expectations, family support programs empower parents to nurture their children’s development while fostering healthier relationships. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

A Conversation with Karen Welford – Part 2 Listen to part one of this conversation here - https://share.transistor.fm/s/19935724 In this episode of Archways' Threads, Michelle Lennon is joined by Karen Welford for the second installment of their conversation about family support and strengthening. They delve into the vital role of family resource centers in fostering cultural and community inclusivity, empowering families, and adapting to emerging needs. Through thought-provoking anecdotes and professional insights, they explore how these centers provide judgment-free support, advocate for equity, and contribute to community resilience. 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Background 00:46 - Affirming Families in Diversity01:37 - Understanding Diversity Beyond Race02:40 - Inclusive Community Spaces04:15 - Building Non-Judgmental Communities06:45 - Advocacy and Collaboration14:55 - Ethical Decision-Making in Family Support17:29 - Adapting to Emerging Needs21:45 - Creative Solutions for Local Needs Family resource centers are rooted in principles of inclusivity and adaptability, making them indispensable to their communities. As Karen highlights, these organizations not only provide immediate resources but also foster long-term resilience by helping families navigate complex systems with dignity and support. Michelle and Karen reflect on the importance of leveraging data for continuous improvement. When centers actively use feedback to refine their programs, they ensure that services remain participant-driven and impactful. This approach empowers families to co-create solutions, leading to more effective and meaningful outcomes. Finally, the discussion underscores the evolving nature of family support work. From tackling the opioid crisis to addressing housing inequities, the field consistently rises to meet new challenges. Michelle and Karen encourage listeners to celebrate the collaborative spirit and commitment that drive these programs, inspiring a shared vision for thriving communities. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

A Conversation with Karen Welford – Part 1  Welcome to this episode of Archways’ Threads, where host Michelle Lennon speaks with Karen Welford, a pioneer in family support and strengthening practices. With over 40 years in the field, Karen has seen family support evolve from intuitive acts of kindness to a well-defined practice rooted in evidence and the science of human development. Join us as we explore the principles that have shaped family support, the importance of community resources, and the ongoing impact of respect, equality, and collaboration in working with families. 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Background 01:56 - The Start of Family Support 04:31 - Impact of Early Intervention Programs07:32 - Family Support as a Formal Practice13:01 - Supporting Families Holistically17:45 - Building Family Connections and Community20:45 - Empowering Families Through Community Involvement23:57 - Adapting to Challenges: COVID Play Group Initiative This episode highlights that family support doesn’t just serve individuals in isolation but sees the family as a whole. By addressing broader needs—such as housing, job placement, and mental health support—the field acknowledges the interconnectedness of family members and their environments. This holistic view goes beyond the boundaries of clinical work, allowing family support providers to facilitate impactful changes that resonate throughout every family member’s life. Michelle and Karen explore how family support encourages community participation and leadership, empowering families to take on roles beyond their households. By giving families tools for involvement, such as joining parent advisory boards or advocating for community resources, family support practices help individuals connect and contribute to the systems that shape their daily lives, from schools to local governments. In empowering families this way, family support fosters a community of resilient families that build strength from each other’s successes and shared experiences. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

Conversations with Cheryle Pacapelli - Part 3 Link to Part 1 of the conversation - https://share.transistor.fm/s/df5940a4Link to Part 2 of the conversation - https://share.transistor.fm/s/eba97cd7 Welcome to the latest episode of Archways Threads! Today, we conclude our powerful 3-part conversation with Cheryle Pacapelli, Project Director for New Hampshire’s recovery centers. In this episode, we dive deep into the intersection of abstinence-based recovery, harm reduction, and the continuous journey of healing from addiction. 00:00 - Introduction and Recap00:55 – Abstinence and Harm Reduction02:52 – Navigating Addiction in the Family04:18 – The Brain's Resilience in Recovery08:01 – The Need for Long-Term Recovery Support13:33 – Coping with Loss in the Recovery Community Michelle and Cheryle discuss the balance between abstinence-only recovery and harm reduction models. Cheryle shares her concerns, based on personal experience, about the potential challenges of transitioning between these approaches.  Michelle also shares her husband’s experience with opiates and how his recovery journey has influenced difficult decisions about pain management, reflecting the impact addiction has on families. Cheryle then reflects on the brain’s remarkable ability to heal and the ongoing cravings she faced after using opiates for a short time despite 21 years of sobriety. This highlights the vulnerability in long-term recovery. Michelle and Cheryle emphasize the importance of sustained recovery support beyond the initial crisis phase, discussing how critical it is for individuals to stay engaged with resources even after stabilization. Both Michelle and Cheryle reflect on the emotional toll of losing friends in recovery and share their personal strategies for coping while continuing to advocate for those still battling addiction. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

Conversations with Cheryle Pacapelli - Part 2 Link to Part 1 of the conversation - https://share.transistor.fm/s/df5940a4 Welcome to the latest episode of Archways Threads! In part 2 of this 3-part interview, Michelle Lennon continues her insightful conversation with Cheryle Pacapelli, Project Director of the Recovery Centers in New Hampshire. They dive deep into the complexities and successes of the peer recovery support movement, sharing personal stories, discussing the challenges of supervision, and exploring the vital role of harm reduction in recovery. 00:00 - Introduction and Recap01:20 - The Role of Education in Peer Recovery06:03 - Challenges of Licensing and Supervision13:12 - Harm Reduction and Peer Recovery16:47 - Supporting Multiple Pathways to Recovery Michelle and Cheryle discuss the importance of education for peer recovery support workers, debunking the myth that peers lack educational qualifications and sharing inspiring stories of peers advancing their education and careers. The conversation then shifts to the complexities of licensing requirements for peer support workers, exploring the tension between medical models and peer support practices, and the need for better training for supervisors. Michelle and Cheryle also delve into the controversial topic of harm reduction, discussing its importance in keeping people safe and alive, and the different approaches taken by recovery centers across New Hampshire. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of recognizing and supporting multiple pathways to recovery, from harm reduction to abstinence, and the ongoing need for education and conversation within the recovery community. Part 3 of this conversation will be posted on October 1, 2024. Please subscribe so you’ll be notified when it’s posted. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

Conversations with Cheryle Pacapelli - Part 1 Archways' Threads is a show designed for people interested in the practices of supporting families and individuals affected by problematic substance use. Each episode, Michelle Lennon (President and CEO of Archways Recovery Community Organization and Family Resource Centers) and guests speak about topics of hope, strength, frustrations, and successes. Sometimes intuitive and insightful, and other times a bit fresh and cheeky, join us our as we share stories from peers and participants in the field and practice of Peer Recovery Support and Family Support & Strengthening. 0:00 - Introduction to Archways' Threads7:09 - Role Clarity in Peer Support11:11 - The Gradual Process of Recovery14:44 - Building Trust through Peer Support16:44 - Inserting Peers into the Recovery System19:25 - Impact of Recovery Community Generosity In part 1 of this 3-part interview, Michelle is joined by Cheryle Pacapelli, a prominent figure in New Hampshire's recovery community. They delve into the vital role of peer recovery support specialists in the recovery process, highlighting their unique contribution to helping individuals rebuild their lives beyond traditional treatment settings.  Cheryle, with her extensive experience and long-term recovery, discusses how peer supporters provide practical assistance and community resources that extend far beyond what is offered by 12-step sponsorship or clinical treatment. The conversation explores the evolution of recovery support services, the importance of integrating peer support within recovery community centers, and the impact of a recovery-oriented system of care.  Michelle and Cheryle also reflect on the historical context of recovery advocacy and the significant strides made in reducing stigma and enhancing support. The episode underscores the value of continuous support in recovery, the generosity and kindness of individuals in recovery, and the critical role of community resources in sustaining long-term recovery. Through Michelle and Cheryle's insights and experiences, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the essential functions of peer support and its transformative effect on individuals and communities. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.  Thank you again to our sponsor, Health Market Connect, providing unbiased health insurance assistance for New Hampshire residents. Find more information at https://www.hmcnh.com If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

Welcome to Archways’ Threads, a show focusing on the threads of family and recovery support services that help make up the tapestry of life in recovery. Join us as we share stories from peers and participants in the field and practice of peer recovery support and family support and strengthening. This podcast is sponsored by Health Market Connect, providing unbiased health insurance assistance for New Hampshire residents.  My name is Michelle Lennon. I'm the President and CEO of Archways family of family resource centers and recovery community centers. And I'm happy to be with you today to share a little bit about our upcoming launch of our podcast: Archways’ Threads. We believe that there are many threads that make up the tapestry of life and for individuals in recovery, and those receiving family support services. That is just so true. Life is complicated. Addiction is complicated. Recovery is complicated. And for the workers that support people, life can be hard. It can be joyful. It can be so purpose filled at times, but there's so much to learn. And we know that basic training just doesn't cover the gamut of what we go through in this job. In a conversation with staff, they had shared they would like to have something that was just for them. What we really wanted to address is having a place to go to ask questions, to get questions answered, to have special guests about different aspects of peer recovery support services, and family support services, that may not be covered in the training. We find the boots on the ground sometimes come up with the most innovative solutions to issues that we face. And sometimes that information isn't shared it out widely. And we want to change that. I know for me, I've been to so many self care trainings, but some of the things that have really made a difference in my life, I didn't hear from trainings. I've heard from a mom that had seven kids and ran a business and figured out a way to kind of take care of herself on the fly. Things like that. And the peer support networks, werre just so innovative, and we would like to have a venue to share out information. So our hope is that this podcast will be hosted by us, but that nationally, we have so many friends in the peer support world, in the family support world, that we share and support each other. Our hope is that for every podcast we provide, there is some actionable item that's going to make life easier or better for those of you doing this work. Thank you so much for joining us in this effort. Take care. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. And thank you again to our sponsor, Health Market Connect, providing unbiased health insurance assistance for New Hampshire residents. Find more information at hmcnh.com. Theme music: Back Roads, by Taylor Hughes - https://open.spotify.com/track/5LuKxn1d04u7kCHqVFbGIN?si=cd9baa6688174a3cUsed with permission Produced by Smith Douglass Associates – smithdouglass.com