In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes welcomes back Aaron Mead for an unfiltered conversation on the reality of addiction, relapse, and the relentless pursuit of recovery. Aaron shares his deeply personal story of isolation, addiction, and the pivotal moment that led him to a Zoom meeting that changed everything. From drinking alone in his basement to finding hope through community and breathwork, Aaron opens up about what it means to surrender, seek help, and rebuild a life with purpose.
Aaron reflects on the importance of daily rituals like inventory and meditation, the mental clarity that came with doing the work, and the ongoing challenge of staying grounded through highs and lows—especially when the deceptive “pink cloud” fades. He and Gary explore the impact of returning to old neighborhoods, the growth that comes from making amends, and how discomfort became the gateway to transformation.
Now co-founder of 3 Degrees STL and a leading voice in wellness and recovery, Aaron offers real tools and raw truth to inspire those navigating their own path. If you or someone you love is struggling, this conversation is a reminder: recovery is not only possible—it can be your greatest comeback story.
About Aaron Mead:
Aaron Mead is a dedicated wellness advocate, recovery speaker, and co-founder of 3 Degrees STL, a wellness studio in St. Louis offering transformative healing through breathwork, cold plunges, and sauna therapy. Having battled years of addiction, Aaron found sobriety through community, self-inventory, and embracing discomfort as a path to personal growth. His journey from the depths of relapse to building a life of purpose has inspired countless others navigating recovery. Today, he uses his platform to promote holistic wellness and encourage others to rediscover their strength.
Follow Aaron’s journey and connect with him:
📲 https://www.instagram.com/aaronjennermead/
📲 https://www.instagram.com/plunge_3d/
🌐 https://3degreesstl.com/
► 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.
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/BeginAgainPdcst
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thebeginagainpodcast/
TikTok - https://cvsteam.io/The-Begin-Again-Podcast-TikTok...
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.