Sam Perez: Shattering Addiction Stigma with Stories of Resilience
The opposite of addiction is connection in many, many ways, and to have a place for folks to be themselves, to be authentic, to work hard, to be accountable, but also to be supported without being judged, without being rejected, and that's a place of work.
Meet Sam Perez, an author and television news reporter with a unique passion for both storytelling and food. In this episode of Recovery Plus Podcast, host Dr. Mei-Li Hennen chats with Sam about her book, 'Deviate from Denial: Erasing the Stigma of Addiction and Recovery Through Inspirational Stories'. Sam's parents own DV8 Kitchen in Lexington, KY, a restaurant and bakery that employs individuals in recovery from substance use disorders.
This establishment isn't just a place to eat; it's a beacon of hope and second chances. Sam dives into the lives of these resilient workers, sharing their stories of strength, grit, and unwavering hope. She highlights the importance of honesty and transparency in building a supportive community that helps people stay sober. By focusing on real-life experiences, Sam aims to break down the stigma surrounding addiction and recovery.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of addiction and the transformative power of connection and community.