Join hosts Drew Hassan and Daniel Anderson on episode 70 of the Recovery Lab podcast as they welcome guest, Kirby Wilson. A survivor and an influential figure in the recovery community, Kirby takes us through the turning points of his recovery journey - a journey that began in 2008. Sharing insightful and powerful stories of his recovery, Kirby reflects on the choices, challenges, and self-discoveries that have shaped his path.

Drawing an analogy to an onion's layers, Kirby explores the ongoing work of recovery, highlighting the courage needed to confront and digest buried childhood trauma and unexpected emotional hurdles. Kirby's story stands as a testament to human resilience and the significance of community and connection in aiding recovery. Moreover, this episode brings to light the shifting landscape of drug abuse, with the increasing presence of dangerous substances and how it impacts choice-making during active addiction stages.

In this deeply personal and transformative conversation, both Kirby and Daniel reiterate the idea of embracing the recovery journey for its growth and self-discovery opportunities, rather than fixating solely on the end-goal of sobriety. Kirby articulates how important it was to realize that peace and serenity were not instant rewards of sobriety but required consistent commitment to the practices that led to recovery. Experiencing joy on this healthy path and learning to find peace amid adversities becomes a highlight of this conversation.

The discussion moves forward accentuating the value of accountability and community within recovery programs and the sense of belonging they provide. Daniel shares an impactful experience from his past that spurred his commitment to sobriety, reminding listeners of the importance of addressing all aspects of life during recovery. The episode leaves listeners with the strong message that despite its challenges, the recovery journey, aided by effort, resilience, and support, is undoubtedly a beacon of hope and a path worth taking.

This episode is not just a deep dive into the realm of addiction recovery; it's also a profound exploration of internal struggles, the power of personal choices, and the ongoing journey of rediscovery. All while highlighting powerful resources like Alcoholics Anonymous and the importance of supportive connections. Ultimately, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in or contemplating addiction recovery, offering hope, strength, and insights for those on this challenging, yet rewarding journey.