Episode Summary
James S. couldn’t finish a single lap around the track when he first got sober. Today, he’s run the Portland Marathon twice. James opens up about years of using alcohol to get out of his own head and fit in, the downward spiral that followed his divorce, and the recovery journey that began at Fora Health. Through Go the Distance (GTD), he found not just a running community but a reason to keep showing up — especially on the hard days. He talks honestly about being an introvert in recovery, rebuilding relationships with his kids, and a dream he’s quietly building to bring sobriety support to the construction industry.
Key Discussion Points
- 00:03:20 How James connected with GTD through Fora Health and why movement became central to his recovery
- 00:06:23 His story: functioning alcoholic, divorce, downward spiral, reaching out for help
- 00:08:43 The mental health roots of his drinking — wanting to fit in and get out of his own head
- 00:11:48 “I have to wake up every day and put my recovery before anything else — before my job, before anyone.”
- 00:26:07 What sobriety really looks like on the hard days — honest talk about not throwing in the towel
- 00:32:02 Being an introvert in recovery: overthinking, communication challenges, showing up anyway
- 00:41:10 From one lap on the track to completing the Portland Marathon twice
- 00:43:29 Why GTD gave James more than motivation — belonging, accountability, and purpose
- 00:55:01 His dream: a life skills program for people in construction where addiction goes unspoken
- 01:00:45 Parting words: “Just keep showing up.”
Guest Quote
“I have to wake up every day and put my recovery before anything else. Before my job, before anyone.” — James S.
Websites Discussed
- Fora Health Treatment & Recovery
- Go the Distance (GTD)
- 4D Recovery
- True Colors Recovery
- Another Chance Recovery
- Real Recovery Podcast
Hashtags & Mentions
The perspectives shared in this episode are for informational purposes only and may not reflect the views of the Real Recovery Podcast or its partners. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are in crisis, call the Recovery Crisis Line: 503-223-8569 (24/7).
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