Running and Recovery: Rj Stiltenpole's Journey on AllBetter
I rebelled against that... There was a failure in me in my twenties and Thirties. I don't know what the rebellion was, but I rebelled against that.
What do you get when you mix a passion for running with a commitment to overcoming addiction? You get the inspiring story of Rj Stiltenpole. In this episode of AllBetter, hosted by Joe Van Wie, Rj opens up about his unique path to recovery, shaped by his love for running and his academic background in kinesiology and wellness. Rj's journey is anything but ordinary.
He was a qualifier for the Boston Marathon and has participated in countless races, from 5Ks to marathons. But it wasn't just about the medals and the miles; running became a crucial part of his healing process. With years of coaching experience, including being the captain of his university's track and field team, Rj founded the 'Barrier Breaker' running and walking group, which has inspired many to lace up their shoes and hit the pavement.
In this heartfelt conversation, Rj delves into the challenges of growing up around 12-step parents and the cynicism that can come with it. He discusses how he overcame these hurdles and embraced the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), emphasizing the importance of surrendering to the recovery process. Rj also highlights the significance of making amends, positive changes, and the power of having a great sponsor.
Whether you're a runner, someone on a recovery journey, or simply looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode offers valuable insights and a reminder that recovery is possible with determination and support. Tune in to hear Rj's story on AllBetter and discover how running helped him stand still in his battle against addiction.