On this episode of Recovering Out Loud, Anthony sits down with Joe, a passionate voice in recovery, to talk about the messy, beautiful journey of getting sober. Joe opens up about childhood trauma, battling addiction, and the pivotal role of spirituality in his recovery. Together, they dive deep into nervous system regulation, people-pleasing, the importance of authentic support systems, and why real change comes from within—not from others. Whether you’re new to recovery or have years of sobriety, Joe’s honest story will resonate and inspire.

Topics include:

• Growing up with trauma and rejection

• Early recovery struggles and breakthroughs

• Faith, spirituality vs. religion

• Family dynamics & support (or lack thereof)

• Daily routines for sobriety

• Why peace and self-love matter most

• Advice for those still struggling

Subscribe, share, and join us in honest recovery—out loud.

00:00:00 - Intro & Setting the Stage

00:01:01 - Why This Podcast Started: Sobriety First

00:02:05 - Chasing Followers vs. Chasing Recovery

00:03:04 - Addiction Doesn’t Discriminate: Stories from the Rooms

00:05:01 - Joe’s Childhood & Trauma

00:07:41 - The Roots of Rejection & People Pleasing

00:10:01 - Spirituality vs. Religion: Finding a Higher Power

00:13:11 - Faith in Recovery & The “Chosen Ones”

00:17:09 - Early Recovery: Breaking Old Patterns

00:20:20 - Hitting Bottom & Finding Real Change

00:24:21 - Why Spirituality is Key to Sobriety

00:30:33 - Daily Routines & Gratitude Practices

00:34:21 - Staying Honest, Staying Sober

00:36:26 - Family, Boundaries & Support Systems

00:42:46 - Carrying the Message & Living Authentically

00:46:38 - What Joe’s Most Proud Of in Sobriety

00:50:53 - The Marathon of Recovery: Staying Patient

00:53:28 - Why We Don’t Feel Better After Lashing Out

00:56:47 - Advice for Struggling Addicts & Alcoholics

00:57:21 - Outro & Final Thoughts