Recovery on Rucker: Recovery from Substance use Disorder

How can a baseball game save lives? In this episode, Jack sits down with Eric Velez and April Provost—co-chairs of the Snohomish County Recovery Coalition—to discuss the heart behind the upcoming Spring Into Recovery event. In this episode, we dive into: The "Why": The history and mission of the yearly community resource fair. Vital Services: What's available on-site, from walk-in dental care and mobile health clinics to veterinary services and housing resources. Past Success & Future Vision: Celebrating the "magical" impact of previous years and what’s next for the coalition. Event Details: Date: Friday, June 5th, 2026. Resource Fair: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Free to the community). Pro-Recovery Game: Everett AquaSox vs. Eugene Emeralds at 6:30 PM. Location: Funko Field, Everett, WA.  For more info, visit: www.snocorecovers.org/sir2026

Jack interviews Andrea Mankey and Sydnee Vacura of Community Medical Services about their experience working to provide MAT (medication assisted treatment) for Opioid Use Disorder. They discuss the stigma surrounding MAT as well as misconceptions about it. They talk about the soft opening of their new location in Everett, non-scheduled intakes, and transportation solutions they offer including first appointment uber rides. For more info, visit: https://communitymedicalservices.org/locations/addiction-treatment-everett-washington/ www.everettrecoverycafe.org  www.snocorecovers.org

Jack interviews Andrea Mankey and Sydnee Vacura of Community Medical Services. They talk about their experience working to provide MAT (medication assisted treatment) for Opioid Use Disorder. They discuss the medication, counseling and peer support they are offering at their new location. They also discuss the history of MAT and the stigma and misunderstanding behind it. They provide free training on both MAT and proper Narcan use in the community.   For more info, visit: https://communitymedicalservices.org/locations/addiction-treatment-everett-washington/ www.everettrecoverycafe.org  www.snocorecovers.org

April interviews Kalei Kaneaiakala of the Recovery Café, and board member of the Snohomish County Recovery Coalition. She talks about her new role with the Recovery Café and some of the work that she has been doing. Together they discuss what the Everett Recovery Café is all about. Please join us March on 17 at The New Mexicans Restaurant for a “Dine With Us” Event from 5pm to 9pm where 15% of the proceeds come back to the Everett Recovery Café.  1416 Hewitt Ave, Everett, WA 98201 For more info, visit: www.everettrecoverycafe.org  www.snocorecovers.org

April interviews Kalei Kaneaiakala of the Recovery Café, and board member of the Snohomish County Recovery Coalition. She talks about her role with the coalition and some of the work that they do. Together they discuss the upcoming Spring Into Recovery Event on June 5th from 10am to 4pm at the Everett Aquasox Stadium. For more info, visit: www.everettrecoverycafe.org  www.snocorecovers.org

April interviews Daniel Seat of the Recovery Café on Mental Health how it relates to recovery. They talk about stigmas, medication, therapy, and resources. Daniel talks about how exercise has been a helpful addition to his recovery. For more info, visit: www.everettrecoverycafe.org  www.snocorecovers.org

April interviews Daniel Seat of the Recovery Café about his multiple roles including Recovery Coach. As DEI coordinator, he strives to ensure people feel included at the Recovery Café. Daniel talks about how they celebrate cultural holidays such as Chinese New Year and Ramadan. He speaks about trauma informed care and lists the core commitments of the Recovery Café Network.  For more info, visit: www.everettrecoverycafe.org  www.snocorecovers.org

In this part 2, Jack interviews Lynn Zielasko: Founder of Kennedy’s Place. Lynn tells a little of her story, what led up to the forming of her non-profit, and the process to get into her houses. She goes over the importance of breaking things down into smaller steps. She explains how  housing managers she employs are trained at the Recovery Café to become Recovery Coaches. She now has 20 houses including 2 women’s houses. She gives a peek into the future including her recently started a handyman service with the workforce that she has within her houses. Kennedy's Place: Empower, Evolve, Elevate. https://kennedysplace.org Snohomish County Recovery Coalition www.snocorecovers.org Everett Recovery Cafe www.everettrecoverycafe.org 

In this part 1, Jack interviews Lynn Zielasko: Founder of Kennedy’s Place. Lynn tells a little of her story, what led up to the forming of her non-profit, and the process to get into her houses. She goes over the blackout period and meetings required per week. She explains how they will help newcomers by pointing them to local resources that can help with securing funding, support and training. She now has 20 houses including 2 women’s houses. https://kennedysplace.org For more information, visit www.snocorecovers.org or www.everettrecoverycafe.org 

In this part 2, April interviews Lucinda Rowley, LMFT and SUDP about her upcoming group in partnership with the Snohomish County Recovery Coalition: Invitation To Change - a skills and support group for family members or friends of individuals struggling with substance use.  Invitation To Change is a framework based in science and kindness that provides skills that will help you stay connected with your loved one while creating an environment supportive of change. To learn more or register for the free 12-session training, please visit:  https://www.snocorecovers.org/itc  To find Lucinda Rowley, you can also visit her website: www.lucindarcounseling.com   

In this part 1, April interviews Lucinda Rowley, LMFT and SUDP about her upcoming group in partnership with the Snohomish County Recovery Coalition: Invitation To Change - a skills and support group for family members or friends of individuals struggling with substance use.  Invitation To Change is a framework based in science and kindness that provides skills that will help you stay connected with your loved one while creating an environment supportive of change. To learn more or register for the free 12-session training, please visit:  https://www.snocorecovers.org/itc  To find Lucinda Rowley, you can also visit her website: www.lucindarcounseling.com   

Jack interviews EV, founder of the Snohomish County Recovery Coalition about his most recent project: Invitation To Change - a skills and support group for family members or friends of individuals struggling with substance use.  Invitation To Change is a framework based in science and kindness that provides skills that will help you stay connected with your loved one while creating an environment supportive of change. To learn more or register for the free 12-session training, please visit:  https://www.snocorecovers.org/itc  

On this special episode, Jack interviews Eric Velez: Founder of the Snohomish County Recovery Coalition. Eric tells a little of his own story, how he progressed into a career of supporting others, and what he does now for the therapeutic courts. Together they discuss upcoming events, how the coalition started, and how you can get involved!    For more information, visit www.snocorecovers.org or www.everettrecoverycafe.org 

Jack and April interview Dr. Devin who is a pediatric and family chiropractor who specialized in neural processing disorders including Autism, ADHD, and OCD. He shares his story and insights from his own life, as well as the information he has gained from his professional career. In part two, he digs more into neuroplasticity and shares about how he made an extraordinary life change that helped to heal himself and thought it might be of some help his own brother as well.

Jack and April interview Dr. Devin who is a pediatric and family chiropractor who specialized in neural processing disorders including Autism, ADHD, and OCD. He shares his story and insights from his own life, as well as the information he has gained from his professional career. In this first half of the interview, he shares some of the benefits that come from chiropractic work including neuroplasticity. 

From Recovery Coaches to Peer Support Specialists, there are different names that these helpers in similar types of roles are called. Jack and Chance deliver more context into what "Peer" means in different contexts, along with different roles that "Peer Support Specialists" can fill. They discuss burnout and secondary trauma, along with other considerations and shed light on the magical rewards that come with the job.

Jack interviews JR who currently at time of interview has 71 days clean. He provides some fresh insights from his early recovery and details the camaraderie and support he has found in the recovery community.

Jack interviews Mike Devore: a Veteran, Comedian, and Peer Support Specialist. Mike shares part of his recovery journey and how it has led to him working to support others.

Jack interviews Nicole Davis, founder of the Long Road Project.

April Interviews Annie from Remedy Recovery & Fitness For Good. Annie and April talk about health & fitness in recovery. Remedy Recovery in Marysville has free classes for those in recovery!

April and Sophie Haynes share more about their personal recovery journeys along with some of the challenges of recovering during the holidays. 

April Interviews Sophie Haynes from Holman Recovery Centers. They explore the curriculum, activities, rules, and things to come at Holman including their upcoming addition, “Freedom Bridge”.

April and Jack talk about handling social situations in recovery. They discuss anxiety, social awkwardness, and other challenges that can present in early recovery. They give insights from their own lived experience to shine light on how normal these challenges are, along with ways to get involved with the recovery community.

In this episode of Recovery on Rucker, April and Jack discuss unpacking trauma and how to create a safe space for those they serve. We explore comfortable settings for coaching or peer work, along with best practices for being present and intentional. Strategies for starting conversations, asking open-ended questions, and adaptability are discussed.   Snohomish County Recovery Coalition Everett Recovery Cafe

In this episode of Recovery on Rucker, April and Jack unpack the reality of compassion fatigue—when the deep desire to care, coach, and support others begins to drain your own well-being. They share personal insights on how trainers, recovery staff, parents, first responders, and caregivers can recognize the early warning signs, set healthy boundaries, and keep service from slipping into resentment. This candid conversation offers practical strategies to sustain your energy, protect your mental health, and continue showing up for the people who need you most.  Snohomish County Recovery Coalition Everett Recovery Cafe

In this episode of Recovery on Rucker, April and Jack dive into the power of identifying healthy coping mechanisms in recovery. From music, journaling, art, and gardening to the community support of programs like IOP and Genesis, they share how discovering joy and creativity can replace old habits and sustain sobriety. They also get real about unhealthy substitutes—like food and cigarettes—and how experimenting with new outlets helps people in recovery find balance, structure, and resilience.  Snohomish County Recovery Coalition Everett Recovery Cafe  

In this deeply personal episode of Recovery on Rucker, Jack and April open up about navigating death, grief, and the painful triggers that can lead to relapse. They share how loss impacts recovery, the struggle of maintaining sobriety through heartbreak, and the importance of honoring both yourself and the loved one you’ve lost. With honesty and hope, they talk about practical ways to grieve while staying grounded in recovery, finding support, and continuing forward on the path of healing. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition Everett Recovery Cafe ----more----  

April and Chance dive into the realities of recovery housing—the good, the challenging, and everything in between. With Chance sharing his firsthand experience of living in a recovery home and April offering an outside perspective, they explore what makes housing supportive versus harmful. From the importance of certifications to spotting questionable models, this honest conversation sheds light on why safe, structured housing can be such a vital piece of long-term recovery. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

In this inspiring conversation, April sits down with Neema Khram to hear his powerful recovery story. Neema opens up about stigma, culture and how the Recovery Café became a turning point in his life, offering the support, staff, and resources he needed to find his footing. He shares how giving back through volunteering not only reshaped his future but also helped him find forgiveness for himself. Now stepping into a new role as a peer counselor, Neema reflects on his journey with deep gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead. Snohomish Recovery Coalition

In this episode of Recovery on Rucker, Jack and Chance open up about the joy and fulfillment that comes with giving back in recovery work. They share how much they love helping others, while also being honest about the risks of burnout, overcommitment, and the “all recovery, all the time” mindset. Together, they explore the importance of balance, self-care, and setting healthy boundaries to prevent compassion fatigue and keep their passion for service alive. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

In this inspiring episode of Recovery on Rucker, Jack sits down with yoga instructor Sally to explore how yoga became a powerful tool in her recovery journey. From breathwork to mindfulness to movement, Sally shares how yoga helped her reconnect with her body, manage emotions, and find lasting healing. Along the way, we also learn more about Jack’s personal connection to recovery and the role reiki plays in his own story. It’s an honest, uplifting conversation about healing, connection, and the mind-body path to recovery. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

In this powerful episode of Recovery on Rucker, Jack sits down with fellow Peer Support Specialist Chance to explore how lived experience bridges the gap between medical professionals and patients battling addiction. They discuss the unique role peer support plays in hospital settings—offering compassion, clarity, and connection when it's needed most. From translating medical advice into relatable language to helping patients feel seen and understood, peer supporters bring hope and healing to the front lines of addiction recovery. Tune in to hear real stories from inside the hospital walls and discover why peer support is becoming an essential part of the recovery journey. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Jack and April dive into one of the most crucial—and often uncomfortable—topics for parents: when and how to talk to your kids about drugs. Drawing from their own journeys in recovery and parenting, they share personal stories, practical advice, and candid reflections on what they wish they’d known sooner. They emphasizes the power of honesty: “Kids can handle the truth better than we think. What they can’t handle is silence.” Adding, “It’s not about scaring them—it’s about preparing them. The earlier we start, the stronger they stand.” Whether you're a parent, guardian, or someone who cares about the next generation, this episode offers real talk, real tools, and a reminder that prevention begins with conversation. Snohomish County Recover Coalition

On this episode of Recovery on Rucker, Jack and April spotlight Peer Support Specialists—trained professionals with lived experience—who bring empathy, hope, and practical insight into hospital settings. Despite lingering biases about their professional status, peer specialists are transforming patient care and clinician collaboration. Key Benefits of Peer Support in Healthcare Emotional & Social Support: Peers reduce isolation and boost resilience through shared experience and belonging Health Navigation & Self‑Care: They guide patients through complex systems, reinforce treatment plans, and teach coping and self‑help skills Improved Outcomes & Cost Savings: Evidence shows decreased rehospitalizations and crises, increased outpatient engagement, and overall quality‑of‑life gains Strengthening Clinical Teams: Peer Specialists ease doctor workloads by enhancing patient engagement, offering non‑clinical support, and acting as credible recovery role models Episode Highlights Role Clarification: Learn how peers complement—not replace—medical staff, and how certification, training, and supervision uphold professional standards. Success Stories: Tune in for real-world examples of peer specialists in emergency departments, inpatient care, crisis teams, and primary clinics. Breaking the Stigma: Jack and April discuss overcoming stereotypes around professionalism and show why peer specialists are vital members of patient-centered teams. By the end, you will see why Peer Support Specialists deserve recognition as essential healthcare professionals who humanize care, drive better outcomes, and support clinicians. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

In this heartfelt episode of Recovery on Rucker, Jack and April sit down with Will B. — a Recovery Café member, clinician, and steadfast voice of encouragement in the recovery community. Will opens up about his coast-to-coast journey, sharing the deep struggles he faced from the moment he began using, through his most difficult challenges, and into the meaningful work he does today. With honesty, humor, and hope, Will reflects on the people and places that shaped his recovery, what continues to inspire him, and why the journey inward is just as important as the miles he's traveled. This is an episode about resilience, connection, and believing in what’s still possible. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

Snohomish Recovery Coalition In this powerful episode Recovery on Rucker we confront a harsh reality: too often, people with substance use disorders walking into an emergency room are dismissed—as “drug seekers”—and treated as burdens instead of human beings in crisis. Many are genuinely ill, in pain, or even overdosing, yet find themselves ignored, devalued, or spoken over. Others may be seeking drugs—but every person deserves to be heard, assessed, and treated with dignity. We explore how this stigma—fueled by outdated beliefs and a lack of addiction education in medicine—leads to real harms: delayed care, untreated pain, and tragic outcomes. Studies confirm that healthcare providers often carry negative stereotypes about addiction, which directly lowers the quality of care these patients receive. Understanding that emergency staff face immense pressure and uncertainty, we discuss how small shifts—person-first language, empathy, and basic respect—can close the gap between crisis and compassionate care. Our episode wraps with a moving story from April, who shares her deeply held gratitude for a Primary Care Physician who, even during her darkest moments of active addiction, always treated her with respect and humanity. It’s a testament to what’s possible—and a call to action. Snohomish Recovery Coalition

Snohomish County Recovery Coalition  In this powerful episode, Jack and April sit down with Kyle, the dynamic Executive Director of the Recovery Café. Kyle shares his deeply personal journey from active addiction to recovery and leadership, offering a raw and inspiring look at what it means to heal and give back. Together, they discuss the mission of the Recovery Café, Kyle’s bold vision for expanding its reach, and the importance of recognizing that recovery isn’t just about substance use — it’s about healing from trauma, grief, mental health struggles, and more. This conversation is a reminder that recovery is possible, community matters, and everyone is recovering from something. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition 

Snohomish County Recovery Coalition Jack and April P talk about dating in recovery. It isn’t one-size-fits-all—and in this episode, we dive into the messy, beautiful, and often complicated reality of romantic relationships on the road to healing. They explore the perils and pitfalls of dating while in early recovery, what it’s like to walk the recovery path as a couple, and how to navigate love, boundaries, codependency, and personal growth without losing yourself—or your sobriety. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition [email protected]

Snohomish County Recovery Coalition April P and Jack talk about one of the most challenging yet critical parts of recovery—asking for help. When the initial “pink cloud” of early sobriety fades, real life sets in, and things can feel heavy—especially the phone. Making that call, reaching out, admitting you're struggling—it’s not easy. But this is exactly what your recovery community is for. You don’t have to do this alone. We explore why asking for help feels so hard, how to recognize the signs that you need support, and what happens when you finally make that call. Whether you're new in recovery or years in, this conversation is a reminder that connection, vulnerability, and community are key to lasting sobriety. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition [email protected]

Snohomish County Recovery Coalition April E and April P unpack the expanding meaning of recovery—a word once reserved for addiction, now applied to nearly every corner of modern life. From drugs and alcohol to food, shopping, gambling, sex, technology, and our ever-present phones, we explore how the concept of recovery has grown alongside our increasingly overstimulated, over-consumed world. What does it mean to be “in recovery” today? And if we’re all healing from something, could recovery be a shared human experience? Join us for a conversation about the personal and collective journeys we take to reclaim balance, connection, and ourselves. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition [email protected]

Snohomish County Recovery Coalition April E and April P explore how lived experiences can drive meaningful change in recovery and policy. You'll hear powerful stories from individuals who have stepped up to use their voices, not just to heal, but to advocate for better systems. We dive into the idea that there are many pathways to recovery, and how recognizing this diversity is essential in shaping inclusive, effective policy. From peer support to grassroots organizing, this conversation highlights the critical role that people with real-life experience play in transforming communities and influencing decision-makers. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition [email protected]

Snohomish County Recovery Coalition In this deeply personal episode, we explore the complexities faced by parents in recovery when their children begin experimenting with drugs. Drawing from lived experiences and expert insights, we delve into the emotional turmoil of confronting the familiar patterns of addiction in your child, especially when a family history of substance abuse looms large. We discuss the challenges of resisting the urge to accuse or lecture, recognizing that such approaches often backfire. Instead, we emphasize the importance of open dialogue, understanding, and setting healthy boundaries. The episode also highlights the critical need for support systems, both for parents and children, to navigate this difficult terrain. Tune in for a candid conversation about the intersection of recovery, parenting, and the hope for breaking generational cycles of substance abuse. Snohomish County Recovery Coalition [email protected]

Snohomish County Recovery Coalition A candid and compassionate episode dedicated to those in recovery facing the dual challenges of managing medical issues—whether long-neglected due to addiction or newly diagnosed, like cancer—while staying sober. Hosted by individuals who've walked this path, each episode delves into the complexities of healing the body and mind simultaneously. You will find: Personal Stories: Real-life experiences of navigating medical treatments and sobriety. Expert Insights: Conversations with healthcare professionals on managing health during recovery. Practical Tips: Strategies for staying accountable, building resilience, and maintaining sobriety amidst health challenges. Community Support: Encouragement and shared wisdom from a community that understands the journey. Whether you're newly sober or have years of recovery, Recovery on Rucker support, understanding, and hope for those facing the intersection of health and sobriety. [email protected] Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

 Snohomish Recovery Coalition Join April E and E. V. in this compassionate  conversation as they tackle the critical issue of connecting with people in active addiction and exploring how to offer meaningful support, empathy, and care while honoring readiness for change. This episode dives deep into: The importance of meeting individuals where they are, breaking through stigma, and fostering compassionate connection Practical strategies for staying present, building trust, and offering effective support to those still struggling with addiction Guidance on how to intervene with love and respect, preparing to help others transition when they’re ready to seek recovery Inspiring stories that spotlight the journey from active addiction to sobriety, emphasizing the power of human connection Learn how to cultivate hope, humility, and healing—transforming judgment into empathy, and preparing the way for healthier, lasting recovery.  Snohomish Recovery Coalition

Snohomish County Recovery Coalition Jack and April explore the often overlooked but deeply impactful role of codependency in addiction and healing. They share how codependent behaviors—like people-pleasing, enabling, and lack of boundaries—can keep us stuck in the cycle of addiction or derail our recovery journey. This episode dives into how friends and family, often with the best intentions, may unknowingly hinder recovery by becoming entangled in codependent patterns. With honesty and insight, Jack and April highlight the importance of self-awareness, emotional boundaries, and detachment with love. Understanding codependency is a powerful step toward personal freedom, emotional sobriety, and long-term recovery. [email protected] Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

Snohomish County Recovery Coalition  Jack and April open up about their very different experiences with family during recovery. For some, family support is a lifeline — a source of love, accountability, and connection. For others, stepping back and creating distance is essential for healing and self-discovery. In this honest conversation, Jack and April explore the complex dynamics between recovery and family, the importance of boundaries, and why there’s no one-size-fits-all [email protected] Snohomish County Recovery Coalition  

Snohomish County Recovery  Coalition Jack and April dive into one of the most debated topics in the recovery community. Drawing from their own experiences and observations, they explore the differences between recovery journeys that include harm reduction strategies—like medication-assisted treatment, safe use practices, and non-abstinence-based support—and those rooted in total abstinence. With honesty and respect, they discuss t.orge stigma, the support, and the truth that recovery is not one-size-fits-all. This episode is a reminder that there are many valid pathways to healing, and works for one person may not work for another. podcast@snocorecovers Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

snocorecovers.org Jack and April share raw, honest stories from their personal journeys through addiction and into recovery. This episode dives deep into the powerful, life-altering moments that led them to seek help — their rock bottoms, wake-up calls, and spiritual awakenings. With courage, vulnerability, and hope, they explore what it truly means to surrender, find willingness, and take the first steps toward healing. Whether you're in active addiction, long-term recovery, or love someone who struggles, this conversation shines a light on the transformative power of hitting a turning point — and choosing a new path. [email protected] Snohomish County Recovery Coalition

Snocorecovers.org We do recover and we are talking about it. Here are some upcoming episode  titles. The Turning Point The Moment That Changed Everything Harm Reduction: Help or Hindrance Recovery Rx: Navigating Health in Sobriety Recovery & Resilience: Navigating Teen Substance Use as a Parent in Sobriety From Recovery to Reform: How Lived Experience Shapes Policy When the Pink Cloud Fades and the Phone Feels Heavy Just to name a few, we look forward to walking this recovery journey with you!! Jack and April are your hosts and you will meet some other Coalition members along the way as well as expert guests.