Our latest podcast episode features Eric Conley, a young man from Fairview Heights, Illinois, who went from a life of struggle and addiction to becoming the founding CEO of the Illinois Recovery Center. Eric's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, humility, and a strong support system.
Growing up in a small house with his two sisters and parents, Eric's life began to unravel at an early age. His battle with depression and addiction began in his teenage years, leading to serious medical complications and ultimately, a desperate need for recovery.
Eric's journey to sobriety was not an easy one. He first got in trouble with the law at the age of 13 and used substances to manage his anxiety. His mother's battle with breast cancer added another layer of complexity to his struggles. But it was these challenges that Eric believes gave him strength and purpose.
A turning point in Eric's life was his decision to seek help. Making that call for recovery was a significant step in his journey. He expresses immense gratitude for the Illinois Recovery Center, which served as a beacon of hope and strength for him to find his purpose in his new life.
Throughout the episode, Eric emphasizes the importance of humility in recovery. He draws parallels between recovery and sports, stating that just like in sports, progress in recovery requires a firm foundation and a focus on progress rather than perfection. His love for sports also helped him practice patience, a key principle in recovery.
The episode also explores the role of support systems in recovery. Eric believes that humility is crucial in building strong relationships and support systems. He reflects on his upbringing in Fairview Heights, Illinois, where his family instilled this value in him.
Eric also details his struggles with substance abuse, sharing his experiences of how he used substances such as opiates to manage his anxiety. Despite his intentions of never becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol, he fell into the trap of addiction, leading to serious medical complications and the need to seek treatment.
From these struggles, the Illinois Recovery Center was born. Born out of a temper tantrum (his words), the Center has become an institution of hope for those seeking recovery. Eric shares how his humble beginnings, along with his faith and a newfound appreciation for life, ultimately led to his recovery.
In conclusion, Eric's story is a powerful testament to the power of humility, resilience, and support in recovery. His journey serves as an inspiration for others who may be struggling with similar issues.
