Recoverycast: Mental Health & Addiction Recovery Stories
Explore powerful, real-life mental health and addiction recovery stories in authentic, engaging conversations. Each episode spotlights relatable journeys shared by influential voices—from struggles and setbacks to moments of resilience, hope, and healing. This podcast is a safe, supportive space where vulnerability is celebrated, connections flourish, and listeners find reassurance that lasting recovery and mental wellness are truly possible. Tune in for inspiring narratives, practical guidance, and a compassionate sober community to accompany you on your personal path to healing.
Recoverycast: Mental Health & Addiction Recovery Stories
Hilary Phelps | From Alcohol Addiction & Depression to Outpatient Care & Holistic Recovery
Hilary Phelps shares her addiction recovery story after a 15-year battle with alcohol, depression, and perfectionism. From high-achieving athlete to struggling with secret drinking and shame, she opens up about her long-term sobriety, healing through 12-step recovery, and building a new life as a recovery advocate and mother. This mental health & addiction recovery story is powerful, honest, and deeply inspiring.
Explore addiction and mental health treatment options: https://recovery.com
Connect with Hilary: https://www.hilaryphelps.com/, https://www.instagram.com/hilaryphelps_
Key topics:
- Hilary’s early experiences with alcohol, marijuana, and depression at age 14.
- Hiding her addiction behind academic and athletic success as a competitive swimmer.
- How perfectionism and people-pleasing contributed to her emotional decline.
- Escalation of blackout drinking and destructive behavior during college.
- The impact of addiction on her romantic relationships and personal identity.
- Navigating recovery while being part of a high-profile and famous family.
- Her decision to seek help through outpatient treatment after multiple failed attempts.
- The recovery tools that have supported her 18 years of sobriety.
- Parenting with emotional openness and discussing addiction with her young son.
- Launching The Right Room to help women in recovery and life transitions.
00:00 A Smoking Dilemma at a Funeral
00:37 Introduction to Recovery Cast
01:33 Meet Hilary Phelps
01:40 Swimming Beginnings
04:12 First Encounters with Alcohol
04:54 High School Struggles
11:27 College Challenges
17:01 Blackout Drinking Explained
17:53 The Shame of Addiction
25:07 Relationships and Ultimatums
26:37 First Steps Towards Recovery
30:24 Recovery.com: Your Path to Mental Health and Addiction Treatment
30:50 The Power of Shared Experiences in Recovery
31:12 The Journey of Self-Reflection and Acceptance
33:03 The Turning Point in Treatment
34:18 Navigating Emotions and Feelings in Recovery
35:08 The Importance of Support Systems
37:52 The Challenges and Triumphs of Long-Term Sobriety
43:51 Open Conversations About Addiction with Children
48:01 The Role of Community and Support in Recovery
50:17 Finding Identity and Purpose Beyond Addiction
53:49 Non-Negotiables and Boundaries in Recovery
58:17 Empowering Women Through Shared Experiences
01:02:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts