REAL Talk with REAL LIFE Ryan Riggs

Kevin is a student at Howard University School of Law(HUSL). He is a person in long term recovery who is chasing greatness and has been a bright light to those who find themselves in a hopeless place. Kevin writes:
”Drawing my inspiration from the writing and actions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In my bleakest moments, I found strength in his sermons and speeches that inaugurated the civil rights movement of the 1960s. They demonstrated how a black man growing up in the South with more adversity than anyone should have to bear could decide to see the world in a different light. Dr. King showed me that, in order to effect the positive changes in my own life that I desperately needed, placing others ahead of my own desires would be the key to escaping the life that had imprisoned me for so long.
In the last 9 years, I have realized and embraced my autodidactic nature that lends itself well to community work and the fight against social injustice. My own experiences have proved unquestionably beneficial. They have allowed me a degree of empathy and understanding through which I can be of maximum use. And this is simply because I have chosen to bring light to others in the way Dr. King advocated.
Dr. King, upon receiving the 1964 Nobel Peace Prize, noted that he refused to accept despair. He said that life’s events—no matter how challenging or debilitating—can be of value to others who can benefit from being shown a way out.
Given my own experiences with inequality and marginalization, my professional goal is to become a just and fair prosecutor, specifically for those mistreated (neglected) by the legal process. Ensuring fairness to those with or without resources, expanding my skills for use in additional legal contexts along the way.
By the grace of God there go I. The marathon continues...”
 

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AJ is a strong advocate for recovery. Upon release from Riverside Regional Jail he joined the REAL LIFE program and has not looked back. Along with volunteering for different events that the program has, AJ also works a full time job landscaping and attends NA meetings weekly. AJ has refocussed his time and energy into positive actions that will affect his life for the better.
He plans on one day to own his own home and acquire his CDL license. With the support of family, friends, and the REAL LIFE program AJ is determined to become a productive member of society. He knows that the journey in front of him won't be easy but as long as he puts God and his recovery first he knows he's going to succeed.

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This episode we are joined by Joel Elston to discuss the power of positive thought and developing a growth mindset. We also discuss the potential for misuse of the principle of powerlessness and how that may sometimes inhibit growth and foster a victim mentality. Joel Elston is a Master Life Coach, Motivational Speaker, Author and Consultant. He is the Father of 3 sons, TJ, Chris and Justin. Joel is an advocate for children in foster care, helping to find homes for special needs and older children. www.joelelston.com
Find "The Bench" by Joel Elston here: https://www.amazon.com/Bench-Joel-Elston/dp/1504342399

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Abbey O’Toole is a woman in long term recovery. After spending her teen years in and out of institutions and 12 step programs she finally found lasting recovery after a serious suicide attempt. From the depths of despair and hopelessness she has climbed up and reclaimed her role as a daughter, sister, faithful fiancé and now new mother. Join us on this episode as we talk to Abbey about her journey, the gifts and struggles of being a new mom, and how she manages her recovery with such a full life.

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Johnny Harrell was recently released from the Virginia Department of Corrections after serving a 3 years sentence. After coming in and out the criminal justice system for many years as a result of battling a substance use disorder, Johnny made the decision to transition to REAL LIFE.  His goal is to stay motivated, work hard, and push forward to help achieve a brighter future for himself.  Johnny wants to take care of himself in order to one day be in a position to help other who battle the same demons that have held him hostage for so long.  On this episode we have a candid discussion about Johnny's life and what is helping him change his ways today.


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Daniel Brockington is person in long-term recovery. He is a father,a partner, and an aspiring leader. Daniel has been recently released from his last period of incarceration due to his substance use disorder.  Mr. Brockington sits down with us to discuss what led him to this point in his life and what he is doing today to avoid falling in the same traps that have snared him in the past.  This raw and uncut discussion will be one that you don't want to miss.  

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