Burn the Stigma’s Recovery Rebellion: Challenging the dogma. Dismantling the stigma. Exposing the BS

Recovery Storytelling Workshop: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/recovery-storytelling-workshop-take-back-your-story-rewrite-your-future-tickets-1981853013714?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurlThis conversation explores the limitations of traditional recovery narratives, the power of storytelling, and how to reframe our self-perceptions beyond the disease model. Megan Perry shares her journey from skepticism to embracing nuanced, strength-based stories that foster wholeness and healing.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Recovery Journeys01:52 First Encounters with 12-Step Programs07:25 The Struggles and Realizations in Recovery13:28 Evolving Beyond 12-Step Narratives19:20 Redefining Identity and Recovery25:06 The Power of Storytelling in Healing30:07 Redefining Identity Beyond Addiction33:12 The Power of Storytelling in Recovery37:42 Reclaiming Abandoned Selves42:07 Challenging Traditional Recovery Narratives47:05 The Importance of Nuanced Storytelling53:38 Moving Beyond Clichés in Recovery StoriesMegan Perry's Website - https://www.meghannperry.com/

Most of us feel trapped in patterns we can’t seem to break. But what if our brain’s own wiring is the key to change? I am on a journey to uncover the truth about neuroplasticity and how understanding the brain's ability to rewire can shatter the self-defeating habits holding me back. So far in this journey I have discovered how everything we do in traditional treatment is counterproductive to how brains change.

In this episode I talk about how the dominant disease model often misdiagnoses what recovery can truly look like and why labeling people as "permanently broken" robs them of hope and healing.Join me as I break down:-Why the idea that substance use disorder is a chronic, relapsing brain disease is incomplete and sometimes harmful-The danger of reinforcing identity labels that keep people stuck in a cycle of fear and shame-How societal and treatment systems profit from a narrative of perpetual damage and what needs to change

I really don't feel like writing a description right now but thank you so much for watching!Link to share your story to RFK JR:https://forms.gle/ckDHL8dQ9AAojzW9A

We need to talk about the lie that is keeping the recovery industrial complex in business. In this episode, I’m tearing down the narrative that addiction is a "progressive, fatal disease." We’re looking at who actually benefits when we tell people they are sick and powerless. Spoiler alert: it’s not the people trying to heal.A note for my Spotify Video watchers: In this video version, I am smoking cannabis and hit my bong during the episode. If you’re just listening to the audio, you won’t miss the info, but if you’re watching on Spotify, you’re hanging out with me in my element.Let’s burn the stigma and follow the money.

Jordan shares her journey through the challenges of substance use disorder and recovery, starting from her first 12 step meeting as a teenager. Jordan's story is one of perseverance, as she navigated through various treatment programs and eventually found healing by embracing alternative recovery paths. Her insights into the importance of unlearning ingrained beliefs and advocating for diverse recovery approaches were truly inspiring.

Key takeaways from this episode: Calling substance use a disease has shifted perceptions.Access to treatment doesn't guarantee positive outcomes.Many people recover without formal treatment.The disease model can create a self-fulfilling prophecy.Recovery identity can hinder personal growth.Critical thinking is essential in recovery discussions.Harm reduction offers a more sensible approach.Healthcare is often driven by profit motives.Mainstream recovery narratives can be limiting.Broader conversations are needed to challenge existing treatment paradigms.Deprogramming check in prompts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZbQaRJ_dIs3pv8pclthnxfa7LFuRXhL0P7qkfzGhsIE/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, Mark shares candid insights about his experiences, the challenges he faced and the pivotal moments that led to his transformation.In this episode we also talk about Overdose Prevention Centers and Vivitrol.

In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Laura, who has bravely navigated the complex journey of recovery. We explored the importance of self-awareness and personal growth, challenging the traditional black-and-white views of addiction. Our conversation highlighted the evolving nature of recovery, emphasizing that each person's journey is unique and deserves respect. Through embracing the gray areas, we discovered the power of harm reduction and the continuous process of personal development. This episode is a testament to Laura's resilience and individuality on her path to healing.

In this heartfelt conversation, I chat with my friend Sarah Jumper, a powerful voice in the recovery community. We explore her journey from childhood experiences in AA meetings to overcoming addiction and finding her place as a leader and advocate. Sarah opens up about the challenges of stigma, the importance of harm reduction, and the transformative power of empathy and support. Her story is a testament to resilience and the belief that no one is ever too far gone.

n this episode of "Recovery Rebellion," I had the privilege of interviewing Aza, a courageous advocate for transparency in recovery spaces. Aza shared her journey into recovery, driven by her struggles with borderline personality disorder and high-functioning depression. She candidly discussed the challenges she faced, including the unsettling presence of predators within recovery circles. Aza's mission is to expose these issues and advocate for accountability, emphasizing the need for safe and supportive environments for those seeking help. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity in recovery communities.Visit her website: https://authenticityofrecovery.com

Reflecting on cannabis and tabling at the Harvest Cup.

Catching up and talking about parts of my past without disease model colored glasses. Burnthestigma.com

Nadine shares her initial resistance to the program's principles and how she gradually participated despite internal misgivings. She underscores the toxic and limiting effects of the disease model of addiction that AA and NA propagate. Emphasizing self-trust, Nadine highlights the importance of trying alternative recovery methods, including harm reduction and psychedelic therapy. Throughout this episode Tara and Nadine advocate for a personalized, authentic road to recovery rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

In this episode I talk about my experience tabling at the Boston Freedom Rally and my thoughts on turning 40 Monday!

In this episode I sit down with Chad. Chad shares his transformative experiences in his recovery highlighting the importance of finding a path that truly resonates. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that challenges conventional recovery narratives and celebrates diverse paths to healing.Chad on Instagram @spacecathaircowww.instagram.com/spacecathaircoMy links www.burnthestigma.net/links

In this episode I sit down with Gil Gibbs and we discuss his relationship with 12 step. Like most people I have talked to, Gil had a positive experience with 12 step. Find out what changed and made him leave. @gil_gibbs on Tiktok Chapters00:00 Introduction to Recovery Perspectives02:40 Personal Experiences with AA and Recovery05:23 Questioning the 12-Step Paradigm08:01 The Role of Mental Health in Recovery11:00 The Impact of Treatment Approaches14:04 Social Media and Recovery Narratives16:33 The Need for Harm Reduction19:21 Anonymity and Its Importance in Recovery22:15 Concluding Thoughts on Recovery Options32:54 The Evolving Nature of Anonymity and Privacy36:59 The Impact of Misinformation on Public Perception42:47 Challenging the Stigma of Substance Use48:31 Accountability in Recovery: A Complex Discussion54:02 The Journey Beyond Traditional Recovery Models

Today I discuss my journey in content creation, reflecting on my slow growth on YouTube and the challenges of editing and consistency. I also delve into the controversy surrounding the OV nasal spray, emphasizing the importance of naloxone in harm reduction. burnthestigma.net/podcastburnthestigma.net/links

In this episode I sit down with Dee-Dee Stout, counselor, educator, and author. Her book Coming to Harm Reduction Kicking & Screaming is now out in a powerful second edition released in March 2025. This updated edition brings fresh stories and expands on themes of radical love, family-focused support, and non‑judgmental care strategies that challenge traditional abstinence‑only models. Order Dee-Dee's books!Coming To Harm Reduction Kicking and Screaming 1st Edition https://amzn.to/4p5H8zyComing To Harm Reduction Kicking and Screaming 2nd Edition https://amzn.to/3HU1L0KDee-Dee on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deedeestoutconsultingDee-Dee on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/deedeestout/#Dee-Dee on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dee-dee-stout-328b017/Dee-Dee's Website:https://www.deedeestoutconsulting.com/My Links: https://burnthestigma.net/links

In this conversation, I explore the misconceptions around recovery and substance use while emphasizing how vital self-trust and personal growth are in the process. I talk about my own journey of deprogramming from traditional recovery narratives, the struggles I face with podcasting, and why harm reduction is so necessary in this industry. I also share some of my future plans and highlight why transparency matters so much when addressing the real complexities of addiction.Chad Sabora https://www.gofundme.com/f/defending-my-legacy-help-me-fight-for-justice

In this episode of Recovery Rebellion, I chat with Dr. Stanton Peele, one of the most well-known voices challenging the disease model and the dominance of 12-step thinking in treatment. We talk about building new habits, questioning old beliefs and why it’s so important to look beyond abstinence-only approaches. This is just the start of the conversation, and I’ll definitely be bringing Stanton back on the podcast to go even deeper.To learn more about Dr. Stanton Peele's Life Process Program visit: www.lifeprocessprogram.com

Just a quick ramble. I have so much more coming your way, thank you for being patient, I promise I am going to get it together!

On this episode we discuss Emma's journey through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), her eventual departure from the program and the impact it had on her life. We explore themes of deprogramming from AA, the societal stigma surrounding substance use and the importance of individual recovery stories. Emma shares her experiences with questioning the AA model, the challenges of leaving, and the positive changes she has experienced since stepping away from the program. The discussion also touches on the need for harm reduction strategies and the importance of finding supportive communities outside of traditional recovery frameworks.Recovery reform, Recovery, AA, Deprogramming, Substance Use Disorder, Podcast, Mental Health, Harm Reduction, Personal Stories, Alcoholism, Addiction, Community

In this episode of Recovery Rebellion, I share my initial, unfiltered thoughts on 7-OH (7-hydroxy-mitragynine) what it is, why some call it “gas station heroin,” and the debate between regulation and prohibition. We talk how rushed scheduling could harm both people who use drugs and chronic pain patients. Includes a TikTok clip from Chauncey explaining the petition to keep 7-OH legal and regulated.Stop The Ban: https://www.change.org/p/urgent-stop-a-national-7-oh-ban-protect-chronic-pain-patients?utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=mobileNativeShare&utm_campaign=share_petition&recruited_by_id=56258300-75fd-11f0-a0cc-57e18186c74a

In this episode we sit down with Kirsten from Sobriety Bestie. We explore the indoctrination of AA, the challenges of leaving the program and the journey of deprogramming from its ideology. Kirsten shares her insights on finding stability and emotional health outside of AA, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and trusting oneself in the recovery process. The discussion highlights the need for diverse recovery paths and the significance of understanding one's own mental health needs.Burn The Stigma's Youtube: https://youtube.com/@burnthestigma420?si=mQJkAKwqAfCGLysLSobriety Bestie's Youtube:https://youtube.com/@sobrietybestie?si=L2JGO5l8NWHD0khl

I apologize for falling off the past few week but I am back!Today we are talking about how Abstinence only models often miss the mark by not addressing the real mental health stuff going on. It's not just about staying sober. Forcing people into treatment can actually make things worse. People need to be ready for it, or it just backfires and it actually greatly increseses the risk of death. Safe Supply Issues: Without a regulated supply, folks are stuck with dangerous street options. It's a mess that could be avoided.

This conversation delves into the complexities of harm reduction, the historical context of substance use and the impact of criminalization on drug users. It highlights the current overdose crisis and the chemical arms race in drug production. The discussion emphasizes the importance of harm reduction strategies and the need for a real evidence based approach to substance use and substance use disorder. burnthestigma.com

In this conversation we talk about the complexities of harm reduction and recovery, challenging common misconceptions and advocating for a more nuaced understanding of substance use disorder. The discussion also highlights the detrimental effects of early labeling on youth and the need for more diverse recovery narratives beyond traditional 12-step programs.

In this episode of Recovery Rebellion, I’m talking about my why.Why I speak out. Why I’m done being quiet.And why I want to help burn down the treatment industry and build something rooted in evidence, compassion and actual freedom.We’re unpacking the phrase that’s constantly thrown at me on TikTok: “Maybe you just weren’t a real addict.”But instead of getting defensive, I’m flipping the script and asking what that label even means and how it’s been weaponized by the recovery industry to keep people stuck, scared and paying for care that doesn’t work.We talk about the truth about maturing out and natural recovery with stats the industry won’t tell you!

In this episode we read the federal indictment against Eric Spofford. This discussion highlights the need for accountability and reform in the recovery industry, emphasizing the importance of supporting survivors and addressing systemic issues.The original article from NH Public Radio that made him lose his shit: https://www.nhpr.org/2022-03-22/eric-spofford-granite-recovery-center-nh-sexual-misconduct Eric Spofford, NHPR, addiction treatment, misconduct, recovery culture, media coverage, victim blaming, financial exploitation, 12 step programs, emotional distress

Eric Spofford, once a celebrated recovery “success story” and founder of Granite Recovery Centers, was recently indicted on federal charges for stalking journalists who reported on allegations of sexual misconduct against him. In this episode, I reflect on my personal experience at the Plymouth House where Spofford was idolized. I share what it was like to watch him rise in that world and speak to the deeper issue: how recovery culture and 12 step dogma protect predators and silence survivors. My thoughts are with everyone he harmed, not just through the allegations, but through every layer of manipulation used to protect his image. It’s time we start talking about who gets believed in recovery spaces and who gets erased.

In this episode, I talk about how I am working on a comprehensive FAQ and research backed resource to push back on 12 step dogma, misinformation and recycled talking points that dominate recovery spaces.I share why I’m done repeating myself, how this document will serve as both a public education tool and a place to center stories that have been silenced for too long. We dive into a classic 12-step apologist comment (spoiler: it hits every cliché), break it down line by and talk about why "saved millions" isn't the mic-drop they think it is.I also talk about how you can get involved and share your 12-step horror story, anonymously or publicly.This isn’t about hating AA it’s about telling the truth.

I'm not here to argue about whether AA works for some.I’m here to expose how its dogma has become the foundation for a system that harms many.From court mandates to sober living rules, recovery has become a machine and I refuse to stay quiet while people are KILLED by it.

In this episode, I was talk about how messy and misunderstood drug use really is and how the stigma around it keeps killing people. I touched on how laws and policies are actually getting in the way of real harm reduction and why we need overdose prevention centers yesterday. But until we deal with the stigma, none of the real solutions are going to get the support they need.

New series: Recovery Rebellion Night Cap. The goal is to upload these episodes at night right after I record them, but I don't how long it will take me to get there. But Night Cap is where we break down the headlines, challenge the bullshit, call out the gatekeeping and shine a light on what’s actually helping people stay alive and heal.Some nights I’ll cover news. Some nights I’ll talk about what’s going on in recovery spaces or social media. I will have a guest here and there but mostly, this is me showing up for the people like me: the ones who didn’t fit the mold and needed something different.Harm reduction and evidence practices are under attack, we can't stay silent.

In this episode of the Recovery Rebellion podcast, I talk about the disease model of substance use order where it came from, and how it’s shaped recovery culture. I challenge the idea that addiction is a lifelong disease, because I believe that perspective fuels stigma and limits how we understand substance use and recovery. I also explore alternative ways of looking at addiction, focusing on individual experiences instead of one-size-fits-all labels. I encourage listeners to rethink the identities they’ve been given, and to remember that healing and growth are possible and they don't have to stay trapped inside outdated narratives.TakeawaysThe disease model of addiction is a model, not a fact.Labeling addiction as a disease has both helped and harmed individuals.The disease model can create a lifetime identity of being in recovery.Substance use disorder is influenced by trauma, environment, and social conditions.Alternative models of understanding addiction exist, such as the trauma and psychosocial models.Healing is not a one-size-fits-all process; individual experiences matter.People are often taught to fear themselves due to the disease narrative.Recovery should focus on personal growth rather than rigid frameworks.Individuals have the power to define their identities beyond addiction labels.It's important to explore different perspectives on substance use and recovery.

In this episode of Recovery Rebellion, we’re diving into a topic that a lot of people don’t see as a problem: the dominance of 12-step programs in recovery culture.AA and NA help people, sure. But what happens when one belief system controls nearly every aspect of addiction treatment, recovery messaging and even court-mandated programs? The problem isn’t that 12-step exists, it’s that it has been woven so deeply into the fabric of recovery culture that many people don’t even realize there are other options.We’ll break down:How 12-step became the default recovery model (whether you choose it or not).Why the idea of “powerlessness” can be harmful, especially for trauma survivors.How 12-step dogma fuels shame, black-and-white thinking, and the abstinence violation effect.Why evidence-based treatment and harm reduction need to be just as valid as total abstinence.If recovery is really about saving lives, shouldn’t we be open to whatever works—even if it’s not the 12 steps?Let’s break the monopoly and make space for all recovery paths.

For years, I believed my “disease” was something I had to battle every single day for the rest of my life. The idea that I was in a constant fight against myself, against cravings, against an identity I was told I’d never escape, kept me stuck in fear and shame. But when I stopped seeing myself as powerless and started questioning that entire narrative, everything changed.

Welcome to the very first episode of Recovery Rebellion! This podcast is a space to break free from recovery dogma, challenge outdated narratives and have unfiltered conversations about harm reduction, drug policy and the corruption in the treatment industry.In this episode, I talk about why I started this podcast, what to expect. I also share how this space will be different from my other social media; more real, more raw and without the pressure of algorithms and aesthetics.If you’ve ever felt like traditional recovery spaces weren’t made for you, if you’ve stepped away from the 12 step world, or if you’re just tired of the misinformation in recovery content this podcast is for you.Welcome to the rebellion. 🔥4o