Join host Heather Venegas for a raw and inspiring episode as she sits down with Juju Pearce and Johnny Ohta to share their powerful journeys through addiction, homelessness, and ultimately, recovery. Juju bravely recounts her experience growing up in foster care, facing early exposure to substance use, and the challenges of navigating relapse and recovery as an Indigenous young person in King County. She discusses the pivotal moment that sparked her road back to hope—and the crucial support from family, school, and recovery advocates that helped her find her way.

Johnny Ohta, a dedicated youth recovery specialist, joins the conversation to reflect on the realities and heartbreak facing today’s youth amid the fentanyl crisis. Together, Juju and Johnny highlight the importance of open communication, community support, and specialized resources like recovery high schools and parent peer groups. Listeners will come away with valuable insights into breaking stigma, the role of family in healing, and the boundless possibility of recovery—no matter the odds.

Resources from the episode:

• Learn more about Bridges Alternative Peer Group and Parent Support: https://www.bridgescolaternalternativepeergroup.com/

• Ryther Mental Health and Youth Programs: https://www.ryther.org/

• InterAgency Recovery Academy, King County’s Recovery High School: https://www.seattlerecoveryhs.org/

• University District Youth Center: https://www.dailyuw.com/article/university-district-youth-center-transitions-to-new-leadership-continues-serving-unhoused-youth-2025072

• Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

• The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

• If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠heather@kcrecovery.org⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

Join host Christopher Archiopoli on King County Recovery Conversations as we sit down with Michelle McClendon, a powerful advocate for justice-involved individuals and reentry support. Michelle’s story takes listeners from her early struggles with incarceration and homelessness to her determination to overcome systemic barriers in employment, education, and housing. Through her leadership at Civil Survival and Purpose Dignity Action, she sheds light on the transformative impact of mentorship, policy change, and community-driven initiatives.

In this episode, Michelle reveals how advocacy, changing the narrative around criminal records, and grassroots programs like the WISH housing initiative helped pave her journey from despair to homeownership and stability. She speaks candidly about the reality of food insecurity, the necessity of social services, and the strength found in collaboration and civic engagement. Tune in for a raw, inspiring conversation that uncovers hope in the face of adversity and offers practical takeaways on breaking cycles of stigma and injustice.

Resources from the episode:

• Learn more about Michelle’s work at Civil Survival: https://civilsurvival.org/

• Learn about Purpose Dignity Action and the LEAD program: https://wearepda.org/

• Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

• The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

• If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠heather@kcrecovery.org⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

Join hosts Christopher Archiopoli and Elizabeth Dahl for a heartfelt episode of King County Recovery Conversations, where community, compassion, and intentionality take center stage. Elizabeth Dahl, outgoing executive director of Aurora Commons, reflects on 11 years of transforming North Seattle through radical hospitality and a deep dedication to belonging. Dive into her journey from coffee shops to cultivating a resource hub and safe haven for neighbors facing homelessness, housing instability, and addiction.

This episode explores how Aurora Commons became a “neighborhood living room,” offering not just food and advocacy, but a vital sense of welcome. Listeners will hear how strategic partnerships, trust-building, and removing barriers have fueled real healing—and why belonging truly lasts longer than a roof. Elizabeth Dahl also shares insights on engaging the broader community and sustaining empathy, even amid funding cuts and public misconceptions.

Discover how you can support Aurora Commons and help continue the cycle of hope and healing. Tune in for stories, lessons, and inspiration from one of the region’s most impactful community leaders.

Resources from the episode:

• Learn more about Aurora Commons: https://auroracommons.org/

• Donate, volunteer, or buy items for Aurora Commons' holiday gift bags: https://auroracommons.org/

• Email Elizabeth Dahl: elizabeth@auroracommons.org

• Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

• The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

• If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠heather@kcrecovery.org⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

Join hosts Christopher Archiopoli, Heather Venegas and Carolyn Presnell for a heartfelt King County Recovery Conversations episode exploring gratitude as a powerful tool in recovery. This discussion highlights personal stories from each host, sharing how gratitude transformed their lives, allowing them to find joy, serve others, and cultivate meaningful relationships in recovery.

Listeners will hear moving examples of gratitude in action—whether through daily reflection, simple acts of kindness, or creating supportive community campaigns like “Gratitude for the Front Lines.” The hosts reflect on how thankfulness has shifted their perspectives, helped them navigate hard times, and empowered them to make a difference for themselves and those around them.

Packed with relatable and actionable takeaways, this episode invites everyone, regardless of where they are in their recovery journey, to discover gratitude as a path to healing, connection, and service in King County’s vibrant recovery community.

Resources from the episode:

• Learn about Behavioral Health Apprenticeship programs: https://behavioralhealthapprenticeship.org/

• Nominate a behavioral health frontline worker or organization for Gratitude for the Front Lines: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

• Washington Recovery Helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

• Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

• The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

• If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠heather@kcrecovery.org⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, we’re revisiting Episode 39 of King County Recovery Conversations.
Host Carolyn Presnell sits down with Scott and Loni Long to explore their inspiring journeys through addiction, recovery, and healing through cultural connection.

Scott shares the challenges of creating a safe, sober home environment while supporting family members still facing addiction. Carolyn relates to the intergenerational struggle of breaking familial cycles of substance use and working to provide a healthier upbringing for the next generation.

Loni’s story begins with a profound spiritual awakening with her baby—an experience that became the catalyst for her recovery. Through regular meetings, Native cultural practices, and spiritual healing, she found strength and purpose. Her journey underscores the importance of reclaiming cultural identity and the powerful ripple effect of sobriety within families.

This episode highlights how traditional Native practices—such as powwows, drumming circles, and spiritual ceremonies—create community, belonging, and a foundation for recovery. Scott and Loni share how they teach their children empathy and spirituality, helping nurture a new generation grounded in love, identity, and connection.

Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work we do at www.kcrecovery.org.
The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA) — www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org.

If you or someone you know is experiencing substance use disorder, problem gambling, or a mental health challenge, please visit the Washington Recovery Helpline for resources and 24-hour support.

🎧 King County Recovery Conversations celebrates recovery and challenges stigma by sharing real stories of hope, resilience, and community. Hosted by Carolyn Presnell, each episode explores diverse pathways to recovery through candid conversations with people in recovery, service providers, and policy leaders.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition online, on Facebook, or on YouTube.
Got feedback or show ideas? Email Carolyn at carolyn@kcrecovery.org or send a voice message on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message.

Join host Heather Venegas on King County Recovery Conversations as she sits down with Ty Reed, founder of Recovery Career Services and Washington State’s reentry manager with the Employment Security Department. Ty opens up about his journey from addiction, homelessness, and incarceration to becoming a passionate advocate for second chance hiring and recovery career services. His story sheds light on the struggles faced by people re-entering society, the vital role employment plays in recovery, and how employers can help break stigma and support thriving careers.

In this episode, Ty dispels myths around hiring people with lived experience and explores the power of purpose, peer support, and workplace mentorship in sustainable recovery. Heather and Ty discuss real success stories—and the practical tools and resources available for organizations and individuals. Listen to discover what gives Ty hope for the future of recovery and reentry work in King County, and how each of us can be part of a more inclusive, resilient workforce.

Resources from the episode:

• Visit Ty Reed’s website: https://recoveryandwork.org/

• Find Ty Reed’s book “Second Chance Hiring” on Amazon: https://a.co/d/awtrLQW

• Connect with Ty Reed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyreedmba/

• Learn more about Behavioral Health Apprenticeships: https://behavioralhealthapprenticeship.org/

• Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

• The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

• If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠heather@kcrecovery.org⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

In this episode of King County Recovery Conversations, host Christopher Archiopoli sits down with Vitor Oliveira, a University of Washington research professor and exercise scientist originally from Brazil. Vitor shares his personal experience of living with HIV since 2008 and the impact of stigma and discrimination, both in Brazil and the U.S. Through vulnerability and insight, he discusses how education and community have helped him navigate trauma and find recovery—not just medically, but emotionally and socially.

Listeners will hear Vitor’s journey from grappling with diagnosis in a culture filled with fear and misinformation, to empowering himself and others through research on exercise and comorbidities for people living with HIV. The conversation unpacks misconceptions about HIV, the importance of U=U, and how recovery is a lifelong, nonlinear process supported by acceptance and advocacy. Vitor’s work reminds us that HIV affects diverse communities and that healing happens in community, through both education and honest dialogue.

Resources from the episode:

• Learn more about Vitor Oliveira’s research and advocacy work at the University of Washington Positive Research Community Advisory Board.

• Find out more about Behavioral Health Apprenticeship programs at behavioralhealthapprenticeship.org.

• Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

• The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

• If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠heather@kcrecovery.org⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message

Join host Christopher Archiopoli for an inspiring conversation with Marc Shelffo, Program Director at Peer Seattle, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS), and Recovery Coach Professional (RCPS) with CCAR.

Marc’s transformative recovery journey – from 11 years of meth use to thriving as a respected leader – showcases the power of non-traditional healing and deep community connection.

He shares his personal experience with ibogaine, the role of harm reduction in making recovery possible, and how championing peer support has allowed him to help hundreds of others redefine their own path.

His story of the hummingbird, a spiritual encounter that marked his turning point, brings depth and hope to this episode. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or seeking insight into peer-based approaches, you’ll come away inspired by Marc’s wisdom and authenticity.

Resources from the episode:

• Learn more about Peer Seattle and their free peer recovery programs: https://www.peerseattle.org/

• Learn more about Peer Washington and their free peer recovery programs: https://www.peerwa.org/

• Learn more about the Behavioral Health Apprenticeship program: https://behavioralhealthapprenticeship.org/

• Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.kcrecovery.org/

• The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA). Learn more about the WRA and the work they do ⁠here⁠: https://www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org/

• If you are experiencing substance, use disorder, problem gambling, and/or a mental health challenge, please visit the ⁠Washington Recovery Helpline⁠ for resources and a 24-hour helpline: https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/

King County Recovery Conversations is a podcast on a mission to celebrate recovery and help break the stigma of addiction and mental health. In each episode, policy experts, program professionals, and those with lived experience join host Heather Venegas to share stories of hope, resilience, and healing in our community. Together, we’ll learn about the various pathways to recovery – and the services and support systems available to anyone impacted by addiction and mental health. Whether you're someone seeking recovery, someone in recovery, a family member or friend, or a healthcare professional, this podcast is for you.

Connect with King County Recovery Coalition ⁠online⁠, on Facebook (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠), or on YouTube (⁠@KingCountyRecoveryCoalition⁠).

If you have feedback or show ideas, contact host Heather Venegas at ⁠heather@kcrecovery.org⁠.

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message