From Gangster Rap to Recovery Rhymes: Manny Lopez's Journey
Episode Overview
Manny Lopez's journey from gang involvement to recovery. The transformative power of 'recovery rap'. Challenges faced in foster care and prison. Importance of accountability and self-belief in recovery. Introduction to Level Up IOP, a virtual outpatient program.
I believe in myself, I believe in myself - that's a message I want to help spread.
Ever wondered how someone can turn their life around from gang violence and addiction to becoming an inspiring figure in the recovery community? In this episode of Odyssey House Journals, TV news legend Randall Carlisle sits down with Manny Lopez, a man who has done just that. Manny, once a rapper entrenched in the dark themes of drugs and crime, now uses his lyrical talent to promote recovery and self-belief.
His journey is nothing short of remarkable - from bouncing around foster care to ending up in adult prison at 17, Manny's story is filled with trials and triumphs. But it was his transition to 'recovery rap' that truly set him on a new path. Now, instead of glorifying negative behaviours, he raps about accountability, love, and the positive changes in his life.
Manny shares candidly about his struggles with addiction and the toxic relationships that kept him in a vicious cycle. His turning point came with the birth of his daughter, Serenity True, which sparked his desire to change. Despite setbacks, including multiple incarcerations, Manny's determination to be a better father and person led him to seek help at Odyssey House.
Here, he embraced recovery wholeheartedly, even when it meant facing the difficult task of holding others accountable and challenging his own ego. Now, Manny is not only a role model in the recovery community but also a co-founder of Level Up IOP, a virtual intensive outpatient program designed to make treatment accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of connection in overcoming addiction.
This episode is packed with raw honesty and inspiring moments that will leave you rooting for Manny and reflecting on your own journey. Tune in to hear more about how he's helping others find their way to recovery and why his message of self-belief is so powerful. Curious about how recovery rap works or how Manny turned his life around? This episode is a must-listen!