Rise Up: A Recovery Outreach Podcast

David Baker hosts Karl Carter on the Rise Up Recovery podcast to discuss his path from hardship to newfound hope through recovery. Karl reflects on the transformation in his life, including purchasing a home and starting the E2 Project with his wife. This project helps bridge the gap for those seeking addiction and mental health recovery services. Karl highlights their upcoming motorcycle ride event, set to raise funds for Recovery Fest, an initiative designed to support those in recovery by offering resources and fostering community connection. The podcast highlights the critical role of community involvement in driving recovery success.

In this episode of the Rise Up Recovery Podcast, host David Baker sits down with Tonyna Riddle, a Regional Overdose Prevention Specialist, to talk about her important work in Hardin County. Tonyna shares how she organizes educational trainings that help the community better understand the science of addiction and how it affects the brain. She also emphasizes the need to break down stigma through compassion and awareness, discusses providing lifesaving resources such as fentanyl testing strips, and highlights the annual Day of Hope event, an opportunity for the community to come together through faith, access helpful resources, and support recovery.

In this episode of the Rise Up Recovery podcast, host David Baker talks to Chasity Carter about the upcoming fundraiser, February 21 at Hardin County Middle School, for the Recovery Fest in August. Recovery Fest provides resources for individuals seeking mental health, drug, and alcohol treatment and is a gathering for both those in recovery and their supporters. Chasity shares her personal journey through recovery, emphasizing the role of community and faith in her sobriety. The event will feature music, food, and fellowship, aiming to show that recovery can be rewarding and fun. The associated fundraiser helps finance the event and supports the E2 Project’s ongoing initiatives.

In this episode of the Rise Up Recovery podcast, host David Baker sits down with Mary Ann Lanham, a recovery advocate who shares her journey of overcoming addiction. Mary Ann opens up about her turbulent past, growing up with addicted parents, and the chaos she created as a result. She discusses the pivotal role spirituality played in her recovery and how a second chance at life has blessed her with a loving marriage and an 18-month-old child. With honesty and vulnerability, Mary Ann offers insights and encouragement to others struggling with addiction.

In the latest episode of the Rise Up Recovery podcast, Stanley Hudson shares his profound journey from struggling with substance abuse in his early twenties to becoming a leader in the recovery community at Aspell Recovery Center. Growing up in a small town, Stanley felt out of place and turned to alcohol to fit in. A pivotal moment during his treatment led him to surrender and seek God's help, which changed his life's trajectory. Today, Hudson leverages his experiences to guide others, advocating for embracing change and seeking help when needed, as he now contributes significantly to the recovery community in Hardin County.

In this episode of the Rise Up Recovery Podcast, David Baker interviews Ronald Stricklin, a certified peer recovery specialist active in Hardin County's recovery scene. Ronald shares insights into his extensive involvement with initiatives like Horizons, a state-funded peer support center, and Adult Teen Challenge. His multi-faceted approach encompasses peer support, personal medicine coach, and mental health coaching, offering individuals varied pathways to recovery. Ronald emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making and the abundant recovery opportunities in the community. He calls for greater dialogue among recovery organizations to enhance mental health support in the region.

In this episode, David Baker hosts Hannah Hollingsworth, who shares her deeply personal journey through addiction, recovery, and redemption. Beginning drug use at 17, Hannah's life spiraled into a series of challenges including homelessness and jail time. Her pivotal moment came through the opportunity to join a drug court program, which helped her confront her past and embrace recovery. She became the first Carroll County female graduate of the program and now mentors others on their path to sobriety. This story offers a powerful insight into the transformative power of community support and personal determination.

This episode of the Rise Up Recovery podcast features Scott Smotherman, a key figure in the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) community of Hardin County. Scott recounts the significant role AA has played in his life, helping him navigate through a challenging period and build a foundation for recovery. The conversation delves into the structure and philosophy of AA meetings, emphasizing a welcoming and supportive environment that offers hope to anyone struggling with addiction. Listeners gain insight into the collective strength found within AA, showcasing the powerful impact of shared experiences and mutual support in the journey to sobriety.

This episode of Rise Up Recovery podcast features Chasity Carter, who shares her inspiring journey from addiction to recovery leadership in Hardin County. Her story encompasses early struggles with substance abuse, motherhood at a young age, and ultimately a path to transformation through faith and community support. Chasity and her husband Karl, both in recovery, are now actively engaged in supporting others facing similar challenges. The episode emphasizes the powerful role of community in recovery and details the exciting lineup for the upcoming Recovery Fest, an event designed to connect and uplift those in the recovery community.

Through a heartfelt conversation with Mike Emanuel, this podcast explores the intricate layers of addiction and recovery. Mike emphasizes that addiction is not a moral failing, but a complex biopsychosocial issue requiring a holistic approach to treatment. He advocates for addressing the spiritual aspects of recovery, which involve finding purpose, self-worth, and community belonging. By highlighting both the personal and societal dimensions of substance abuse, Mike urges listeners to consider the broader context in which addiction exists and the collective responsibility to create supportive environments for recovery.

The podcast episode follows Mike Emanuel's inspiring journey from addiction to becoming a recovery community leader. After rehab, Mike took on the unexpected role of caretaker for a large property in Alabama, where he cultivated a recovery program centered around work, reflection, and nightly campfire discussions on life and faith. Over nine years, his leadership transformed the program from a few individuals to a community of 80, despite dealing with heartbreaking losses. Mike's candid story illustrates the profound impact of community and resilience, alongside the personal sacrifices and emotional complexities involved in addiction recovery support.

In this powerful Rise Up Recovery podcast episode, Mike Emanuel shares his harrowing tale of addiction and redemption. After battling alcoholism for nearly two decades, Mike found himself homeless and lost. An encounter with a friend led him to a faith-based rehabilitation program, where he began to rediscover himself and his spirituality. Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of his mother, Mike persevered, completed the program, and embraced a life of sobriety. His story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith and community support.

In this podcast, David Baker speaks with Tommy Morris, highlighting Tommy’s remarkable recovery journey. Tommy shares insights from his struggle with addiction despite coming from a supportive family background. He credits the Aspell recovery program and drug court for his sobriety, reflecting on how these experiences transformed his life. Tommy is now contributing back to the community as a weekend tech at Aspell, where he helps others in recovery. His story underscores the essential role community and structured programs play in achieving and maintaining sobriety, shining a light on Hardin County's supportive environment for recovery.

In this episode of the Rise Up Recovery podcast, host David Baker sits down with Candis Jackson, the intake coordinator at Jack Gean Shelter in Hardin County. Candis shares her personal journey from struggling with addiction to becoming a leader in the recovery community. She emphasizes the importance of asking for help and getting involved in community support systems. Candis discusses the shelter's role in transforming the lives of women by providing stability and a sense of hope. With her own experiences as a guiding light, she now helps others navigate the difficult path of recovery with compassion and dedication.

In this episode of the Rise Up Recovery podcast, host David Baker welcomes Michelle Williams, Director of Nursing at Lifespan, to discuss the crucial role Lifespan plays in supporting recovery efforts within the Savannah community and surrounding areas. Michelle elaborates on Lifespan's comprehensive healthcare services, emphasizing their integration of medication-assisted treatment and behavioral health into their primary care practices. With support from the Rural Community Opioid Response Program grant, Lifespan has also introduced transportation services, breaking down barriers to care. The conversation highlights Lifespan's mission to empower everyone, particularly the underserved, to lead healthy lives.

In this podcast episode, David Baker interviews long-time jail minister David Burgess. David shares his 20 years of experience in the Hardin County Jail, helping inmates with Bible lessons and aiding their spiritual journey. Despite changing groups due to transfers and releases, he consistently shows up each week offering an authentic, compassionate, respectful presence, which he believes is just as important as the teachings themselves.

Sandy Bidman, a social worker from Aspell Recovery Center, discusses her lifelong battle with alcohol addiction in this episode of Rise Up Recovery Podcast. She opens up about her tumultuous past, right from her early years witnessing her father’s alcoholism to her own struggle. She also talks about her work in helping others cope with their addiction.

Cody Williams shares his powerful story, starting from a troubled childhood living with parents battling addiction, to his transformation into a beacon of hope as a case manager at Aspell Recovery Center. Williams experienced his first spiritual awakening holding his newborn son, a moment that propelled him towards a desire for change. He explains how establishing a relationship with God and the power of desperation helped him turn his life around, transforming him into an advocate for recovery.

Karl Carter's journey from addiction to recovery is featured in this episode of the Rise Up Recovery podcast. After battling a 20-year addiction and losing everything, Karl found solace and support in Savannah's recovery community. His commitment to change, daily prayer, and involvement in recovery activities have transformed his life. Karl now works to help others by teaching relapse prevention classes, being an active sponsor, and providing support to those in need. His story highlights the impact of community and faith in overcoming addiction and finding a new purpose in life.

In this episode of the Rise Up Recovery podcast, David Baker speaks with Cherish Woodis, a cherished member of the recovery community. Cherish shares her journey from battling addiction and mental health issues in high school to achieving sobriety in her mid-twenties. She discusses her extensive work in recovery programs and her new role as a Peer Recovery Specialist at Hardin County High School. Cherish emphasizes the importance of having someone who has been through similar struggles to talk to, offering hope and guidance to those in need.

Join David Baker on the Rise Up podcast as he interviews Suzanne Thomas, co-director of Open Door Outreach in Savannah, TN. Suzanne discusses the inception and vision of Open Door, which focuses on supporting women in recovery, many of whom are repeat offenders due to lack of support. Utilizing an old clinic and community resources, Open Door offers free meals, parenting classes, and holistic support for families impacted by addiction. Suzanne emphasizes the importance of addressing addiction as a family issue, fostering healthy relationships, and building a supportive community network.

The podcast episode features DeShana Rogers, a counselor trainee at the Jack Gean Shelter for Women. She shares her journey from a dysfunctional family background to recovery and becoming a counselor. The shelter offers a transformative 90-day program, providing women with education, employment opportunities, and crucial life skills. DeShana emphasizes the importance of coping with downtime, practicing gratitude, and addressing resentments through the AA Big Book studies and prayers. The shelter’s supportive environment helps women regain their dignity and rebuild their lives, ultimately leading to long-term recovery.

Linda White shares her powerful story of growth and healing through her involvement in Al-Anon. With a history of alcoholism in her family, Linda found herself on a journey of self-discovery and self-love. Through Al-Anon meetings, she learned to unpack her past, work through resentments, and focus on her own well-being. Join Linda as she discusses the transformative power of Al-Anon in her life and the importance of finding healing and self-acceptance.

Aspell Recovery Center in Hardin County is at the forefront of changing lives impacted by addiction. With a dedicated team led by coordinator Jesse Johnson, Aspell offers a comprehensive 90-day program for men and women seeking recovery. From structured routines to employment opportunities within the community, Aspell focuses on empowering individuals to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society. The program's success is evident through the recent expansion of its women's program. Aspell's collaborative efforts with community partners in Hardin County highlight the importance of teamwork in supporting individuals on their journey to recovery.

The Carl Perkins Center in Hardin County plays a vital role in child abuse prevention and family support. Through empowering parents with resources, training, and nurturing parenting classes, the center aims to transform lives and provide hope for a brighter future. Teresa Nelson, the executive director, is dedicated to spreading awareness and building a community that supports and uplifts every child and family the center serves. With a focus on empathy, empowerment, and learning from mistakes, the center facilitates a journey towards better parenting and stronger families.

In this podcast episode, David Baker interviews Gus Baugus, a leader in the recovery community. Gus shares his personal story of addiction, starting from an early age, and how it led him down a destructive path. He discusses his experience with Aspell Recovery Center and the role it played in his journey to recovery. Gus highlights the importance of having a support system and the impact it had on his own healing. He also emphasizes the significance of community and how it can provide hope and transformation for those struggling with addiction.

Adult and Teen Challenge continues to make a significant impact in the community by offering long-term residential programs and outpatient services for individuals struggling with addiction. Through a Christ-centered approach and the power of spiritual transformation, lives are being transformed and hope is being restored. The program's success is attributed to the study of the Bible and the emphasis on surrendering one's life to Jesus Christ, leading individuals on a path to lasting change and redemption.

Joseph Simon shares his incredible story of recovery from a 15-year addiction journey. Despite hitting rock bottom, Joseph was able to rebuild his life and a sense of purpose through his recovery journey. Joseph now serves in the recovery community as a yoga instructor and leads a Bible study, helping others on their own path to recovery. He emphasizes the importance of transforming one's identity, developing healthy habits, and finding support in times of struggle. Joseph's classes, Constant Transformation Yoga, are offered weekly at Bodies in Motion gym, focusing on physical and spiritual well-being.

In this podcast episode, Ron Wallace shares his powerful personal journey from darkness to light. From a life filled with drugs, crime, and anger, Ron found redemption and purpose through recovery. He discusses when he met David Baker, the realization that he was an addict, and his path to recovery through the NA program. Ron recounts the challenges he faced, the support he received, and the transformative power of faith and self-discovery. Today, Ron is not only sober but also a case manager at the Aspell Recovery Center, helping others who share similar struggles. His story is a testament to the possibility of change and the hope that recovery offers.

Aimee Cotton, the executive assistant at Brenda's House of Hope, shares her incredible journey from addiction to recovery ministry in Hardin County. She opens up about her court-ordered treatment, finding support at the Jack Gean shelter, and the transformative power of surrendering to recovery. Aimee emphasizes the difference between recovery programs and the Hardin County recovery community, where she feels loved, accepted, and supported by those who want her to become the best version of herself. She reflects on how being part of this community has helped her move forward in life and shed the shame and stigma associated with addiction. Aimee's story is a testament to the power of community and the possibility of recovery, even for those who never thought it was attainable.

In this episode of Rise Up Recovery Outreach Podcast, David Baker interviews Jessica Johnson. Jessica is the founder and Director of Brenda's House of Hope, a recovery housing resource for women in Hardin County. They discuss the challenges faced by women in addiction recovery and how Brenda's House of Hope provides a safe and supportive environment for them to overcome these challenges. Tune in to this inspiring conversation on the Rise Up Recovery Outreach Podcast.

Welcome to Rise Up: A Recovery Outreach Podcast. Join your host, David Baker, and guest Josh Atkinson. Together, they highlight the Drug Court in Hardin County and the impact it has on individuals dealing with substance abuse. Josh shares his personal recovery journey and how he came to work in the Drug Court. 

Welcome to Rise Up Recovery Outreach Podcast. David Baker and Josh Atkinson talk about Hardin County's growing recovery community and talk about local recovery opportunities in Hardin County.