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The Begin Again Podcast

The Begin Again Podcast

Written by: Gary Menkes
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About this listen

The Begin Again Podcast is a space for redemption, resilience, and raw truth. Hosted by Gary Menkes, each episode dives deep into the powerful, unfiltered stories of people who have faced addiction — and chosen to rise. These aren’t just stories of sobriety. They’re stories of spiritual awakenings, shattered stigmas, and second chances that turned into extraordinary lives.

Through heartfelt, often spiritual conversations, we explore what it truly means to begin again — not just once, but every day. Whether you’re in recovery, sober-curious, or walking alongside someone on their journey, this podcast is here to remind you:
You are not alone.
You are not broken.
And your most meaningful chapter might still be ahead.

This is more than a podcast. It’s a movement of hope, healing, and the belief that no matter your past, you can begin again.

© 2025 The Begin Again Podcast
Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Self-Help Social Sciences Success
Episodes
  • 🦋EP 111 - Breaking the Stigma: Ali Yule’s Journey Through Sobriety
    Aug 26 2025

    In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary sits down with Ali Yule, who will be celebrating three years of sobriety in August.

    Ali shares her deeply personal journey from growing up with anxiety and substance abuse in her family to falling in love with sobriety. Despite experimenting with alcohol in high school, it was a traumatic event at 21 that thrust Ali into full-blown addiction, leading to numerous relapses and stints in rehab.

    A turning point came after the birth of her son, where she finally chose sobriety for herself. Ali found a lifesaving sponsor and immersed herself in the AA program, discovering the freedom that comes with surrender and making amends.

    Today, she actively fights stigma by recovering out loud and recently received a scholarship to pursue a bachelor's degree in addiction.

    Ali's story is a testament to resilience, the power of community, and the possibility of a beautiful life on the other side of addiction.

    Follow Ali on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/aliyule/ to connect with her story, join her growing community, and be inspired by her unwavering commitment to hope and recovery.

    ABOUT ALI YULE SINGLEMANN:

    Ali Yule Singlemann is a proud recovery advocate who embodies what it means to live sober out loud. Set to celebrate three years of sobriety in August, Ali has transformed her life and now dedicates her journey to breaking the stigma surrounding addiction and inspiring others to see that recovery is not only possible but something to be celebrated.

    Her path to sobriety wasn’t easy, but it forged in her a deep sense of resilience, compassion, and purpose. Ali openly shares her experience, strength, and hope as a way to reach those who may still be struggling, offering a powerful reminder that no one has to walk this road alone. Her authenticity and willingness to be vulnerable have created a safe space for others to find courage and start their own journey toward healing.

    Ali is passionate about showing that recovery is a life of freedom, pride, and purpose. She believes in “recovering out loud,” not only for herself but for everyone who needs to hear that change is possible.


    SHOWNOTES:

    00:00 Introduction to The Begin Again Podcast

    02:09 Ali's Early Life and Struggles

    05:56 High School and Early Adulthood Challenges

    06:47 The Turn

    ► Visit our website here: TheBeginAgainPodcast.com

    🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
    Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of RCVR Brand, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!


    🔗 Shop Now: https://RCVRbrand.com/

    🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

    Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

    Sign Up Now


    ★ Let's connect:
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/BeginAgainPdcst
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thebeginagainpodcast/
    TikTok - https://cvsteam.io/The-Begin-Again-Podcast-TikTok...

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 6 mins
  • 🔄EP 110 - Facing the Abyss: Josh Datant's Redemption Story
    Aug 19 2025

    In this compelling episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Josh Datant, a talented musician and powerful advocate for recovery.

    Josh shares his harrowing journey through addiction, which began at the tender age of 15 when he first tried heroin. From heavy alcohol use to engaging in identity theft and fraudulent checks, Josh's life spiraled out of control. He recounts how addiction led him to lose his career, relationships, and even custody of his son.

    The emotional turning point came when a compassionate police officer decided to take Josh to a detox facility instead of jail. This act of mercy, combined with Josh's prayers for a second chance, set him on a path to sobriety.

    Today, Josh is over a year clean, actively shares his story to help others, and continues his musical pursuits. His journey is a powerful testament to the possibility of recovery and the strength it takes to start over.

    Don't miss this episode that highlights the transformative power of honesty, support, and determination in overcoming addiction.

    ABOUT JOSH DATANT:

    Josh Datánt is a gifted musician, producer, songwriter, and passionate advocate for recovery whose life reflects the power of resilience and redemption. A California native now based in Texas, Josh’s journey spans the vibrant music scenes of Austin, San Antonio, Nashville, Los Angeles, and the Bay Area. From mastering fifteen instruments and touring with his band Datánt to composing scores for film and collaborating with industry legends, Josh has built a remarkable career defined by creativity and dedication.

    In 2021, Josh embraced sobriety and transformed his life, channeling his recovery journey into advocacy and music that uplifts and inspires. Today, he continues to use his talents to break stigma, mentor others, and create art that speaks to the heart of healing and hope.

    Follow Josh’s journey and music at https://joshdatant.com/home, connect with him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joshdatant/, and subscribe to his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Joshdatant.


    ► Visit our website here: TheBeginAgainPodcast.com

    🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
    Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of RCVR Brand, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!


    🔗 Shop Now: https://RCVRbrand.com/

    🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

    Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

    Sign Up Now


    ★ Let's connect:
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/BeginAgainPdcst
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thebeginagainpodcast/
    TikTok - https://cvsteam.io/The-Begin-Again-Podcast-TikTok...

    Show More Show Less
    49 mins
  • 💡EP 109 - Life Overhaul: Gabe Cohen's Path to Redemption
    Aug 12 2025

    In this heart-wrenching and inspiring episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Gabe Cohen, a man whose journey through addiction and multiple incarcerations has led him to become a passionate advocate for recovery.

    Gabe shares his raw and personal experiences, from getting arrested at 15 for a shooting incident and grappling with cocaine addiction, to facing homelessness and numerous stints in prison.

    He talks about hitting rock bottom when a near-fatal health crisis became a turning point, leading him to a path of recovery and service. Gabe is now the founder of Discovery Cafe and author of 'The Peer Recovery Community Organization,' where he demonstrates how one's past does not have to define their future.

    Tune in to hear Gabe's incredible story of resilience, transformation, and his unwavering commitment to helping others navigate their own recovery journeys.

    ABOUT GABE COHEN:

    Gabe Cohen is a powerful example of what it means to transform pain into purpose. After surviving years of homelessness and multiple incarcerations, Gabe made the decision to rewrite his story — not just for himself, but for others still fighting their way out. Today, he is the founder of Discovery Cafe, a community hub rooted in recovery, empowerment, and connection. Gabe is also the author of The Peer Recovery Community Organization: How to Leverage Your Life Experience and Create a New Legacy, a guide for turning lived experience into lasting impact.

    Follow Gabe’s work at gabecohen.me, connect with him on Instagram @peer_recovery_expert, check out his book on Amazon, and learn more about his mission at discoverycafe.org.


    ► Visit our website here: TheBeginAgainPodcast.com

    🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
    Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of RCVR Brand, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!


    🔗 Shop Now: https://RCVRbrand.com/

    🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others

    Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.

    Sign Up Now


    ★ Let's connect:
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/BeginAgainPdcst
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thebeginagainpodcast/
    TikTok - https://cvsteam.io/The-Begin-Again-Podcast-TikTok...

    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
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