Renegade Recovery: Embracing Diverse Paths to Healing

In this podcast episode, Sandy and Phil interview Kathie, who shares her journey of recovery and how she helps others on their recovery paths. Kathy's story is a unique blend of personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Kathie's life took a significant turn when she became involved with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in 2010, which she credits with saving her life and changing her lifestyle. She emphasizes the transformative impact of AA's 12-step program on her life. However, Kathie also introduces her approach as a "Renegade AA person," recognizing that people in recovery need more than just the traditional 12-step approach. Kathie's work extends beyond AA meetings. She discusses her involvement with an IOP (Intensive Outpatient) treatment program at a hospital, where she provides support to individuals dealing with a variety of challenges, including alcohol and drug issues, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Kathie adapts the 12-step approach to cater to these diverse needs, integrating additional elements like yoga, meditation, and nature excursions into her methods. Kathie's past is marked by personal struggles, including dealing with her parents' divorce at a young age, which significantly impacted her sense of self and desire to please others. She describes her journey through marriages, losses, and various coping mechanisms, including alcohol and drug use. Through her own experiences, Kathie offers wisdom and advice to those seeking recovery. She encourages individuals to reach out for help before they succumb to desperate situations, emphasizing the importance of seeking support and finding healthy outlets. Kathie's dedication to helping others find their unique paths to recovery and well-being is evident in her commitment to hosting meetings, offering guidance, and fostering a sense of community. Overall, Kathie's story is one of resilience, growth, and compassion. Her approach to recovery serves as a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and individuals should explore different pathways to find what works best for them.