The Hope Shot - Recovery Podcast

In this episode Justin, Christina, Nathan, and guest Ito get real about the different seasons we all walk through. Seasons of loss, change, complacency, and growth. From the weight of grief to the struggle of self discipline, from wrestling with faith to finding courage in action, each story shared reminds us that life’s toughest moments often carry the greatest lessons. Together they talk about what it means to show up even when it is hard, to trust in something bigger when the future feels uncertain, and to hold onto hope when the voice of doubt tries to keep us stuck. This conversation is raw, honest, and deeply relatable, offering encouragement for anyone who feels like they are in the middle of their own season of struggle. Join us as we explore what it looks like to keep moving forward one day at a time. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://qr1.be/XZFA Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

Trish shares her powerful journey through loss, grief, and addiction to finding the gift of desperation that opened the door to hope. Her story shows how even in our darkest moments, we can discover purpose, healing, and connection. Join Justin, Christina, and the crew for an inspiring conversation about turning pain into growth and finding intimacy through true connection. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://qr1.be/XZFA Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

Deeply Connected takes you inside the real, unfiltered conversations about intimacy, connection, and the courage it takes to truly be seen. In this episode, the hosts share personal stories, laughter, and hard truths about what intimacy really means—beyond the common misconceptions. From the vulnerability of sharing a quiet moment with a partner, to the bonds formed in friendship and recovery, they explore how connection shows up in everyday life, the walls we build, and the work it takes to break them down. Through humor, honesty, and lived experience, Deeply Connected invites you to reflect on your own relationships—with others, and with yourself—and discover the beauty in growing together. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://qr1.be/XZFA Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

In this episode, Justin, Nathan, Cesar, and Christina explore the truth that real joy doesn’t come from material things—it comes from within. They share raw, personal reflections on chasing happiness through stuff, only to find that what truly fills us is connection, service, and growth. Join us on this powerful journey as we unpack what it means to live a life full of purpose and inner peace. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://qr1.be/XZFA

Justin and Melissa from Sober Now break down what it really means to win, even when life throws losses our way. In this soul-stirring episode, they explore how shifting our perspective turns every L into a lesson, and every lesson into a W. They also dive into how unchecked ego can flip the script, taking us from rising to falling fast. Join us for a raw and real journey through humility, growth, and the mindset that keeps us winning, no matter what. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://qr1.be/XZFA

Join us in this powerful episode as Danielle shares her inspiring journey through adversity, addiction, and ultimately, triumph. She opens up authentically about the struggles that once defined her life, the turning points that led to healing, and the passion she discovered in helping others reclaim their lives. Danielle's story is a testament to courage, hope, and the power of recovery. Listen in and discover how her experiences might illuminate your path or empower someone you love.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Kenzie, who shares her incredible journey from addiction and despair to hope and recovery. Almost 6 years clean, Kenzie reflects on her tumultuous past—growing up in a household of addiction, starting her own battle with substances at just nine years old, and enduring cycles of abuse, incarceration, and homelessness. Kenzie doesn’t just focus on the struggles but shares how hitting rock bottom became the catalyst for transformation. From finding herself behind a dumpster to discovering hope in a rehab program, Kenzie talks about the miracle of connection through recovery meetings, the importance of service work, and the role of her higher power in reshaping her life. This episode is a raw and honest look at the strength of the human spirit, the importance of community, and the miracles that happen when we choose recovery. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or seeking inspiration, Kenzie’s story is a testament to the fact that change is possible for anyone willing to put in the work. Tune in and hear how Kenzie proves that recovery works if you work it. 🎙️ Download this interactive ebook based off Kenzie story for a small donation to support our non profit here- https://thehopeshot.org/the-hope-shop/ols/products/out-of-the-shadows---kenzies-story-workbook

In this episode, hosts Justin, Nathan, and Cesar dive into the powerful journey of finding faith in recovery, discussing what it truly means to 'come to believe.' They share personal experiences and insights on how belief in something greater—whether spiritual, communal, or personal—plays a vital role in overcoming addiction and maintaining sobriety. Together, they explore how trust, hope, and belief shape the recovery process and offer listeners encouragement on their path to healing. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

In this episode, hosts Justin, Nathan, Cesar, and Kellie talk about the recent Recovery Walk and how it showed the power of coming together as a community. They share how people from all different backgrounds joined forces to support one another, proving that we're stronger when we work together for a common goal. Tune in as they share stories, experiences, and simple ways we can all help build a stronger, more connected community—whether in recovery or just in life. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

Join hosts Justin, Nathan, and Cesar, along with special guest Melissa from Sober Now, as they explore the powerful notion that "pride comes before the fall." In this episode, the group delves into the dangers of letting ego and overconfidence take the reins in recovery. They share personal stories, professional insights, and practical strategies for recognizing and managing pride before it leads to setbacks. Whether you're navigating your own recovery or supporting someone on their journey, this conversation offers valuable lessons on staying humble, grounded, and focused on lasting growth and healing. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

In this episode, hosts Justin and Nathan sit down with special guest Matt to dive deep into the topic of avoidance and its impact on the recovery journey. They discuss the ways avoidance can hinder progress, the fears and insecurities that fuel it, and practical strategies for confronting and overcoming this common challenge. Whether you're in recovery yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers valuable insights and real talk on breaking the cycle of avoidance and moving forward with confidence. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

In this episode of The Hope Shot, join hosts Justin McPadden, Nathan, and Cesar as they jump into the topic of recovery through the lens of life's ever-changing seasons. Our special guest, Big Steve, shares his take on of perseverance and growth, offering unique insights into navigating the highs and lows of recovery. From the challenges of the darkest days to the rejuvenation found in success in recovery, we'll explore how each season brings its own lessons and opportunities for personal growth. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with hope, wisdom, and practical advice for embracing the seasons of life in recovery. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

Join us in this episode as Justin, Nathan, and Cesar go deep into the topic about finding the spark in recovery. Discover how to reignite your passion and purpose while navigating the path to sobriety. We share personal stories, practical tips, and inspirational insights that will help you rekindle your inner fire and stay motivated in your recovery journey. Whether you're in early recovery or have been for years, this episode offers valuable wisdom and encouragement to keep your spark alive. Tune in and light up your path to a brighter, healthier future. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

Join us in this episode as Justin, Nathan, Cesar, and our special guest Matt explore the significant "firsts" in their recovery journeys. From the first sober holiday to the first time sharing their stories publicly, each milestone represents a powerful step towards a new life. Listen in as they share personal challenges, and triumphs, offering hope and inspiration to those navigating their own paths to recovery. Whether you're in recovery yourself, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the transformative power of these experiences, this episode is a must-listen. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

In this episode, join Justin, Nathan, and Cesar as they share about the profound topic of forgiveness and its impact on personal recovery. Often misunderstood as an act meant for others, forgiveness is revealed as a crucial step towards self-healing and inner peace. The trio shares personal stories, insights, and practical advice on how to embrace forgiveness as a powerful tool in the journey to recovery. Learn how letting go of past resentments can free you from the chains of addiction and pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Tune in to discover why forgiveness is truly a gift you give yourself. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

In this episode, Justin, Nathan, and Cesar dive deep into the theme of "Identity Crisis." Together, they explore the challenging process of finding one's true identity in recovery. The trio shares personal insights and experiences, revealing how addiction created a false sense of self and shaped their beliefs about who they were. Join them as they discuss the painful yet liberating journey of giving up the only thing that once made them feel alive, only to discover the person they always wished to be. Through heartfelt conversations, they highlight the struggles and triumphs of reclaiming their true selves and how shedding the facade of addiction has allowed them to embrace their authentic identities. Tune in for an episode filled with raw honesty, powerful stories, and valuable lessons on navigating the complexities of identity in recovery. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

On this episode, hosts Justin, Cesar, and Nathan jump into a critical topic that many in recovery face: how the very blessings we gain in recovery can become burdens if we're not careful. As we rebuild our lives and start acquiring new things, we often find ourselves distracted from the one thing that brought us those blessings in the first place – our recovery. Join us as we discuss the challenges of maintaining focus on recovery while managing the newfound responsibilities and opportunities that come our way. We explore how these blessings can sometimes lead us astray, causing us to see them as problems and potentially sliding backward in our recovery journey. This episode emphasizes the importance of prioritizing recovery to sustain the blessings it brings. Tune in for heartfelt discussions, personal stories, and practical advice to help you stay grounded and committed to your recovery path. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

In this episode hosts Justin, Nathan, and Cesar share their personal journeys of navigating recovery while overcoming the lingering defenses from their past lives. They explore how, during their using days, they developed survival skills to adapt to dangerous and hostile environments. These defenses, initially necessary for survival, often followed them into early recovery, making everything seem like a threat to their well-being. Through their stories, they reflect on the emotional and spiritual growth that helped them find their footing and embrace the art of equanimity—maintaining steadiness amidst life's waves. Listeners will learn how the hosts transitioned from being reactive and drama-prone to viewing challenges with a calm, balanced perspective. They discuss how early recovery's emotional turbulence subsides over time, replaced by a deep-seated belief in their ability to overcome difficulties. Highlighting the importance of flexibility, service, and meditation, they illustrate how they have become more comfortable with themselves, making thoughtful choices and responding differently to life's challenges. This episode offers a powerful message of hope and resilience, showing how embracing equanimity has allowed them to relax into a new relationship with life, be fully present, and stand strong amidst whatever comes their way. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

In this episode, we explore how the lies we tell ourselves—rooted in limiting and destructive belief systems—can be the biggest obstacles to recovery and personal growth. We'll discuss how recovery provides the unique opportunity to identify these lies and begin rewriting the narrative we live by. From confronting deep-seated myths about our worth and capabilities to embracing new, empowering truths, this episode is a guide to reshaping your inner dialogue. Ito shares personal stories and professional insights on how altering our belief systems can lead to profound transformations, with the help of a loving GOD. Together, we'll uncover practical strategies to dismantle harmful beliefs and replace them with narratives that support and uplift us in our recovery journey. Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or looking to transform your own belief system, this episode is filled with valuable insights and actionable advice. Join us for a candid and empowering conversation, and let's start changing the stories we tell ourselves for a healthier, more authentic life. To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot

In this week's episode, hosts Justin, Cesar, and Nathan are joined by special guest Rachael for a no-holds-barred discussion on "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of Recovery." Together, they share their personal experiences, offering an unfiltered glimpse into the realness of the recovery journey. From the triumphs of sobriety to the tough realities of relapse and societal stigmas, this episode doesn't shy away from the truth. Each host opens up about their falls and failures, the times they didn’t get it right, and how they continue to overcome – even with years of recovery under their belts. We believe in sharing it all, no matter what people think, because that’s how we grow and avoid going back to the places we once were. Tune in for a candid conversation that will resonate with anyone on the recovery path or supporting someone who is To find out more about our organization or be a guest go to https://linktr.ee/thehopeshot Buy us a coffee to show support https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Thehopeshot