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Bertarelli Cutlery

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Illinois Recovery Center

In this episode, hosts Chris, Jakob, and Jeff welcome Nathaniel Carpenter, who shares his journey of recovery from addiction. The conversation explores Nathaniel's early life in Washington, Missouri, the impact of his environment on his choices, and his transition from casual drug use to addiction. The episode highlights the importance of community, support, and the challenges faced in recovery.

Nathaniel opens up about his introduction to opiates after a severe injury, his experiences with childhood trauma, rebellion, and the influence of sports on his life. As he navigates the struggles of addiction—including the consequences of his actions and the difficulties of early recovery—he emphasizes the power of vulnerability and storytelling as tools for healing and hope.

Reflecting on his journey through addiction, fatherhood, and recovery, Nathaniel shares the spiritual awakening he experienced as he confronted his past and the role of divine intervention in his life. He discusses the fear of withdrawal, the importance of community support and 12-step programs, and the pivotal role Vivitrol played in helping him regain control of his life. His story is one of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of faith and support.

Nathaniel also speaks candidly about the challenges of parenting a child with a serious health condition and the strength he found in his recovery journey. He recounts the painful experience of losing custody of his son, the fight to regain it, and the joy of recent milestones in his son's health. He underscores the importance of showing up, the role of faith and hard work in rebuilding his life, and the hope that comes from sharing his story. His journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of transformation after addiction.

-In this episode of Pondoff’s Anonymous, Chris Pondoff, Jeff Allen, and new co-host Jakob Miller discuss their return after a long hiatus, reflecting on personal growth and the establishment of the Illinois Recovery Center.

-They delve into the importance of community support, family dynamics in recovery, and the realities of functioning addicts. The conversation highlights the dangers of modern substance use, particularly the prevalence of fentanyl, and emphasizes the need for comprehensive treatment options.

-The hosts share personal experiences and insights into the recovery process, aiming to spread hope and understanding.

-In this conversation, Chris discusses the multifaceted journey of recovery from addiction, emphasizing the importance of willingness, structured programs, humility, and community support. He shares personal experiences and insights on how recovery is not just about abstaining from substances but also about finding joy, healing from grief, and the significance of honesty in the process.

-The conversation culminates in a heartfelt dedication to a lost friend, highlighting the emotional connections formed in recovery.

*RIP Cliff Gilmer. Fly high, brother. And Godspeed. Let us Pray.

_____________________

Illinois Recovery Center: https://illinoisrecoverycenter.com/

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For Episode 38’s show notes, I’ll leave it to the words from a girl I know…

“We gathered to remember Randy Hoff, a life that ended way too early. I never knew Randy but I know those that love him dearly. It is inspiring to see their commitment to talk about something that has been stigmatized for so long - suicide and mental health. The only way to save lives is to talk about this. Pain is what people are trying to end, unbearable pain, not their lives. We have to keep this conversation going - to bring into the light what has hid in the darkness for way too long. And, if you are one who is suffering unbearable pain right now - reach out. We need you in this world. Let us help you find a way out of the pain.” -Ashley Pondoff

Please tune in to hear from Randy’s mother and daughter as they honor him and continue the conversation on suicide prevention, grief recovery, and how to shatter the stigma surrounding mental health and those that die by suicide.

Stigma…

Man.

F*** stigma.

Let us pray.

-Chris

*I would like to personally dedicate this episode to Weston Randy Hoff, Randy’s nearly two-year-old nephew, who, by no coincidence, is identically equipped with Randy’s bright blue eyes.

Pondoff's Anonymous (Podcast and ZeroProof Journal) cpondoff@pondoffsanonymous.com www.pondoffsanonymous.com IG: @pondoffsanonymous FB: Pondoff's Anonymous YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtnYAJ-jbjcn5Uct4I5Ifrw Podcast Access: https://linktr.ee/pondoff