Peer Perspective

In this episode of Peer Perspective Podcast, we sit down with McKenzie Secor, Peer Specialist with us at ASCEND in our Dual Recovery & Peer Support Services, to explore a moment that often feels both pivotal and intimidating in recovery: the very first meeting. McKenzie shares her lived experience of what it was like walking into that first space for support, bringing uncertainty, hesitation,...

On this episode of Peer Perspective Podcast, “Let’s Talk About It,” we take time during Mental Health Awareness Month to have an open and honest conversation about the connection between mental health, substance use, addiction recovery, and peer support. We discuss how these experiences often overlap, impacting individuals, families, workplaces, and entire communities, sometimes in ways that are u...

Burnout is often associated with the workplace—but what about the toll it takes before someone is even employed? In this episode, we explore how burnout can show up in less visible ways, particularly in the emotional and mental strain of searching for work. From ongoing rejection and uncertainty to the pressure of staying motivated, the journey toward employment can carry a weight that often goes...

Curiosity is often seen as something light, positive, even playful, but what happens when it feels uncomfortable? In this episode, we take a deeper look at what it really means to experience curiosity. From the excitement of discovery to the unease of stepping into the unknown, curiosity can hold a wide range of emotions. It can open doors to growth, connection, and new perspectives, while also br...

We are going to take a closer look at instant gratification, the pull toward immediate relief or pleasure and how it can quietly shape our behaviors, especially within mental health and substance use recovery. What often begins as something harmless, even human, can gradually influence the choices we make without us fully realizing it. Instant gratification can show up in the small, everyday momen...

We’re excited to kick off our new series, Moments That Matter, on the Peer Perspective Podcast. This series shines a light on the experiences and pivotal moments in our lives that leave a lasting impact. Moments shaped by the words or actions of someone who inspired, guided, or supported us. It could be a friend, family member, neighbor, coworker, mentor, or even a sponsor, anyone whose presence m...

In this episode of the Peer Perspective Podcast, we sit down with Mary Morris, Drama Therapist and Program Manager with Dialogue for Justice at the Restorative Justice Initiative in New York City, to explore the role of drama therapy in mental health, substance use, and addiction recovery. Together, we dive into how creative expression through role-play, storytelling, and performance can help indi...

In this episode of Peer Perspective, we play devil’s advocate and dive deep into hope. We will explore it from every angle. Examining the bright side, the inspiration, and motivation hope can bring, but we also confront the challenges, disappointments, and risks when hope falters. Join us as we unpack what hope really means, how it impacts our mental health and recovery journeys, and why understan...

In this episode, we take a closer look at anger; breaking it down at its core to better understand what it is, how it shows up, and why it’s often misunderstood. While anger is frequently labeled as negative or unhealthy, the truth is more nuanced. Anger can surface suddenly or build quietly over time, especially for individuals navigating mental health challenges or recovery. It may feel unfamili...

In this special 2nd Anniversary Celebration and official launch of Season 3, we’re shining a spotlight on the power and progress of peer support. This milestone episode brings together voices from across the continuum of lived experience in a dynamic roundtable conversation. Joining us are Sierra Tarantino, Youth Peer Advocate from WAIT House; Robin Richards-Szabo, Family Peer from WAIT House; Sil...

In honor of Suicide Prevention Month and the back to school season we’ll explore the challenges young people face in online spaces, such as social media, messaging apps, streaming platforms, and gaming communities, where connection and community can quickly turn into harassment, exclusion, or bullying. Together with special guest co-host Missy Stolfi, Area Director for American Foundation for Suic...

Join us as we introduce our new mini series: "Devil's Advocate: Owning Your Feelings." For this series kick-off we are exploring jealousy at it's core. How it affects, us the good, the bad, and the ugly. We dive in how to navigate it and how experiencing jealousy doesn't have to be a bad thing. Sit down with us and learn how to help navigate those feelings as you're on your recovery journey, wheth...

In this episode of the Peer Perspective Podcast, we sit down with Katy Margison — Nutrition and Mindset Coach with Athena Nutrition and the voice behind @thesoberweightlifter. Katy shares her powerful journey through addiction, sobriety, and rediscovering strength in both mind and body. She reminds us that recovery doesn’t look the same for everyone, some find healing through community, others by...

What does it really mean to walk in someone else’s shoes? In this episode, we explore the often complicated terrain of support—whether you’re navigating your own recovery or walking beside someone on theirs. We talk about what it means to find the “middle of the road” in compassion: how to meet people where they are without judgment, hold space for their ups and downs, and bridge the gap between l...

In this episode, we explore one of the most complex and transformative ideas in the recovery journey—the paradox of powerlessness and empowerment. What does it mean to admit powerlessness over addiction or mental illness while still reclaiming your power to live, to heal, and to grow? Join us as we unpack how both concepts can coexist—and why understanding the difference can be a game-changer for...

In this powerful episode of the Peer Perspective Podcast, we sit down with Jeremy Duers from the Adirondack Peer-to-Peer program to explore the unique challenges and triumphs Veterans face in recovery. From military service to civilian life, the transition can be complex—especially when layered with mental health struggles, substance use, or addiction. Jeremy shares insights from his own journey a...

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the role expectations play in the recovery process—how they shape our mindset, challenge our progress, and sometimes sabotage our healing. We explore the difference between realistic and unrealistic expectations, what it means to set intentions without setting ourselves up for disappointment, and how to work with expectations rather than let them work agains...

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the realities of relapse and recurrence in mental health, substance use, and addiction recovery. We explore why recurrences happen—not as failures, but as part of the healing journey. You'll learn how to recognize early warning signs, understand common triggers, and discover tools and strategies that support confidence, resilience, and stability after a setb...

We will explore into the world of youth and recovery—exploring thevunique struggles and triumphs of young people navigating their way throughvaddiction, trauma, and mental health challenges. We’ll talk about the critical role of support systems, recovery methods, and ways to help inspire that change. Joining us for this conversation is special guest Elizabeth Belair, Youth & Young Adult Outrea...

In this episode of the Peer Perspective Podcast, we explore the complex issue of problem gambling and its far-reaching effects on individuals, families, and communities. As we recognize Problem Gambling Awareness Month, we are joined by Kelly Delaney, Program Manager, and Erinn Eschler, Team Lead for Prevention at the Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center with the New York Council on Problem...

Recovery isn’t just about breaking free from substances—it’s about rebuilding your life, and that includes the relationships that sustain you. In this episode, we’re exploring the essential role social skills play in recovery. How do you rebuild trust after strained relationships? How can you overcome social anxiety and self-doubt? What does a strong, healthy support system look like? And how do y...

Join Ginger and Michele on the latest Peer Perspective Podcast episode as they welcome special guest Micayla Echevarria. rMicayla shares her journey as a young adult peer navigating her mental health and addiction recovery. Gain insights from lived experiences that empower you to seek support at any stage of your recovery journey—whether for mental health, substance use, or addiction.

Join us as we sit down with David Woods Bartley to explore how resilience shapes mental health, substance use, and addiction recovery.

Join Ginger and Michele as they sit down with Ryan Carpenter long-term recovery, recovery and mental health advocate and owner of Simple Strength and Conditioning in Greenwich, NY. Ryan opens up about the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and how recovery helped him rebuild his life and business.

In this insightful episode, we explore the transformative role gratitude plays in recovery and its profound impact on overall well-being. Learn how cultivating gratitude can be a powerful tool for personal growth and emotional resilience.