Building a New Life: Gina Schaefer’s Journey from Recovery to Entrepreneurship
I can tell you, like the whole, like The Years in between, but we ended up going out to dinner one night with Larry Years Later and my husband said: you know, I'm not going to judge anyone by the best or worst thing they ever did, and this was in the past.
Gina Schaefer, the dynamic CEO of A Few Cool Hardware Stores, joins David Clemen on this episode of the Recovery Nuggets Podcast to share her inspiring journey from battling addiction to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Imagine turning your life around and then using that transformation to help others do the same. That's exactly what Gina has done, and she’s here to talk about it all. Gina’s story is one of grit, determination, and a deep commitment to community.
After ditching alcohol, she didn't just focus on her personal recovery. She poured her energy into building a business that not only thrives but also gives back. With 13 hardware stores across the DC Metro area, Gina has created job opportunities for many, especially those in early recovery looking for a fresh start. In this heartfelt conversation, Gina discusses how trust and compassion are at the core of her leadership style.
She believes in giving people second chances and doesn’t judge them by their past mistakes. This approach has fostered a supportive work environment where employees can build new skills and find stability. Gina also shares some of the invaluable leadership lessons she’s learned from those in recovery. Her new book, 'Recovery Hardware: Restoring Community While Restoring a Business', captures these insights and more, emphasizing the importance of resilience and life skills in both personal and professional spheres.
If you’re interested in stories of transformation, community building, and practical advice on recovery and entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen. Gina’s journey is a testament to the power of second chances and the incredible impact one person can have on their community.