Archways' Threads

Hosted by Michelle Lennon

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Are you someone who cares about people? Do you seek information to support people you care about who have families? Do you care about people affected by addiction, substance use disorders, or work in the field of family support or peer recovery support? Spend about twenty minutes each month with the President and CEO of Archways Recovery Community Organization and Family Resource Centers who shares hope, strength and stories from the field and practice of Peer Recovery Support Services and Family Support & Strengthening.

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18 recent

June 1, 2026Episode 1724 min

Identity-Based Goal Setting – Part 2

Part 1 of this discussion:YouTube - https://youtu.be/KJfInQEZy5ETransistor - https://share.transistor.fm/s/70d8538dIn this episode of Archways' Threads, host Michelle Lennon and Wellness Initiative Coordinator Cara LaPlante continue their multi-part exploration of identity-based goal setting. Following up on how belief systems impact recovery, this conversation delves into the mechanics of upgrading your mindset, interpreting failure and feedback, and how peer support serves as an essential framework for long-term behavioral change.Key Takeaways:00:00 – Intro and Shifting Identity Through Daily Habits: Michelle and Cara discuss how we can intentionally change our beliefs and upgrade our identity through daily habits. Referencing James Clear’s Atomic Habits, Michelle explains that repetitive behaviors act as "votes" for a new self-concept, noting how a past lack of structure caused her to slide backward because consequence-based goals fail to stick without a deeper identity shift.03:03 – Growth Mindset and Constructive Feedback: Cara introduces Carol Dweck's Mindset framework, highlighting how a growth mindset transforms setbacks into learning opportunities. The duo discusses how this mindset decouples self-worth from criticism, allowing individuals to view external feedback as a tool for development rather than a personal attack.06:49 – Peer Support and Overcoming Resentment: They examine the role of recovery coaches and Certified Recovery Support Workers (CRSWs) as real-world mentors who model a healthy recovery lifestyle. Michelle notes that by shifting from comparison to inspiration, participants can celebrate others' achievements as evidence of what is possible instead of harboring resentment.09:30 – Auditing Personal Limits and Narratives: Michelle shares personal reflections on performing a "belief audit," challenging her own subconscious excuses around scheduling conflicts, prioritizing gym time, and the self-limiting label of "I am not a morning person".13:10 – Mirroring Strength and Reality: Cara explains how coaches help participants upgrade their self-concept by gently refuting negative self-talk. When a participant claims they aren't strong enough, the coach can mirror back the objective, daily resilience that the participant is already demonstrating to challenge those false, limiting narratives.17:15 – The "Secondary Gains" of Staying Stuck: Cara introduces the psychological concept of secondary gains, illustrating how a participant's subconscious might actually cling to an old, negative identity. She explains that even a painful identity can feel safe and comfortable because it provides an excuse to avoid taking the scary, vulnerable actions required to step into a new way of living.20:45 – Statistical Success of Identity-Based Change: Michelle and Cara conclude the conversation by highlighting that identity-based goals and habits are statistically proven to be the most effective way to drive permanent, long-term change. Because recovery can last for decades, focusing on upgrading who you are ensures that your healthy habits stick for the rest of your life.True behavior modification is ultimately a byproduct of identity alteration. This episode guides listeners on how to perform a "belief audit" to uncover the subconscious blocks holding them back from long-term stability. By proactively seeking out mentors, analyzing how we process criticism, recognizing the hidden "secondary gains" of staying stuck, and consistently placing "votes" for our desired self through daily routine, anyone can break through their glass ceilings and transition from simply surviving into thriving.If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at podcast@archwaysnh.org or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

May 1, 2026Episode 1627 min

Identity-Based Goal Setting – Part 1

Welcome to Archways' Threads, a podcast exploring the tapestry of recovery and family support. In this episode, host Michelle Lennon is joined again by Cara LaPlante, now a Wellness Initiative Coordinator and peer recovery coach. This conversation marks the beginning of a four-part series exploring the shift from consequence-based goals to identity-based goal setting. They discuss the limitations of traditional task management in recovery and how our internal belief systems, both empowering and limiting, shape our ability to maintain long-term growth.Key Takeaways:00:00 – Intro: Michelle introduces Cara, highlighting her work in collegiate recovery and her national speaking engagements on youth peer support.01:56 – Crisis Navigation and Concrete Needs: Cara describes the initial phase of recovery coaching, which often focuses on "task-driven" goals like securing housing, food security, and obtaining vital identification.03:33 – The Intake Process: The duo discusses the use of surveys, such as the BARC-10 (Brief Assessment of Recovery Capital), to establish a baseline while remaining participant-driven.05:05 – The Stability Plateau: Cara explains that while some participants stay connected to pursue "higher level" goals like education or careers, many disengage once their initial crisis needs are met.07:38 – Why Tasks Don't Equal Lasting Change: Michelle notes that once a specific consequence is reached (like losing weight or finishing a program), daily actions often stop because there is no longer a target or requirement in front of the person.11:22 – The Power of Beliefs: Michelle and Cara define "limiting beliefs" as certainties that restrict our potential, while "empowering beliefs" provide the confidence to take action.13:07 – Auditing Your Inner Truth: Cara discusses the importance of looking past labels like "resistant" to understand the inner truths and stigmas—such as "I'm just a junkie"—that prevent participants from seeking help.22:17 – Family Values and Recovery Lifestyles: Michelle shares personal stories about how family values regarding religion, waste, and substance use shaped her own trajectory and identity.This episode highlights the reality that while structure and "checking boxes" can help someone survive a crisis, they aren't always enough to help a person thrive long-term. Recovery is ultimately a "learning curve" about oneself. By identifying the "negative tapes" in our heads and replacing them with an identity-based "Why," we can reprogram our brains to view challenges as opportunities for progress rather than failures.If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at podcast@archwaysnh.org or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

October 1, 2025Episode 1522 min

A Family's Journey from Crisis to Stability – Part 2

Part 1 of this discussion – https://share.transistor.fm/s/fe7c6505 In this episode of Archways' Threads, host Michelle Lennon continues her previous discussion with Marina, a participant in the Archways' Family Threads program. Marina shares her journey from addiction and homelessness to recovery and stability as a new mother. She discusses the importance of setting boundaries, seeking therapy, and having a supportive network to help prevent relapses. Marina and Michelle also talk about the resilience and growth mindset that helped Marina and her partner overcome obstacles and build a new life for their family. Key Takeaways: 00:00 – Intro 01:33 - Speaking Your Truth: Marina emphasizes the importance of using your voice and setting boundaries to stay in recovery, even when faced with resistance, manipulation, or guilt from others. 02:35 - The Power of Therapy: Marina discusses the value of seeking professional support, like therapy, to heal from past trauma and cope with new emotions in recovery. 04:00 - Resilience in Action: Michelle highlights the family's resilience, noting their journey from homelessness and addiction to finding a stable life and a home. 04:47 - Archways' Support: Marina explains how Archways connected her family with essential services that put them up in a hotel until they secured housing, which was a huge relief during her high-risk pregnancy. 07:52 - Breaking Generational Cycles: Marina and Michelle discuss how the family has interrupted generational cycles of poverty and violence. Marina expresses her determination to ensure her son does not experience the same struggles she went through. 09:19 - Healing Past Pain: Marina shares how having her own child helped heal the pain of feeling like she didn't fit in with her adoptive family and contributed to her feeling heard. 10:25 - Recovering as a Team: Marina and her partner's recovery journey together fostered a lot of compassion, love, and growth for each other. 11:40 - Identity-Based Motivation: Michelle explains that recovery is often more successful when tied to identity-based goals, such as wanting to be an amazing parent, rather than just checking boxes or avoiding consequences. 18:58 - Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Marina's advice for others in recovery is to not be afraid to reach out for help and to give yourself a chance. This episode offers a direct and honest look at the realities of long-term recovery. Marina's story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn't just about abstaining from substances: it's about building a new life and healing from past trauma. It's about setting new goals, creating a safe family environment, and having a support system that sees you as a whole person, not just an addiction. Her journey from crisis to stability shows that with genuine support and unwavering effort, a family can change the trajectory of their lives and create a beautiful, sober future for themselves and their child. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at podcast@archwaysnh.org or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

September 1, 2025Episode 1423 min

A Family's Journey from Crisis to Stability – Part 1

A Family's Journey from Crisis to Stability – Part 1In this episode, Archway’s CEO Michelle Lennon, one of the co-authors of the Family Threads Curriculum, speaks with a family who successfully completed the program. Marina and Star share their journey from experiencing homelessness and active addiction to finding stability and hope. They discuss how peer recovery support and family support services helped them build a new life for themselves and their young son. This episode is a testament to the power of human connection, nonjudgmental support, and the unwavering resolve of families to create a better future.Key Takeaways00:00 - Intro01:30 - Seeking Support The family decided to join the Family Threads program out of a desperate need for resources after a period of active addiction, despite initial reluctance to ask for help.02:15 - Post-Treatment Challenges After leaving their treatment program, the family realized they lacked the tools needed to continue their recovery and had to find housing and a vehicle on their own to prepare for their baby's arrival.03:21 - The Leap of Faith The family completed program assessments that felt invasive, but they realized they had to take a "leap of faith" and be vulnerable in order to move forward.06:32 - Perseverance Pays Off They endured the stressful process of submitting over 200 housing applications and receiving 12 rejections before finally securing a place to live, highlighting the importance of perseverance.09:38 - The Power of Peer Support Having a peer recovery support worker was critical in helping them manage stress and stay on track, as their coaches provided emotional validation and treated them with humanity.13:11 - Recovering Together The couple chose to enter recovery as a team, strengthening their relationship by supporting each other through their individual struggles despite receiving pushback from others.17:04 - Breaking Generational Cycles Having grown up in chaotic homes, they made a conscious decision to create a peaceful environment for their son by communicating openly instead of arguing.21:13 - Ongoing Support Recovery support workers provide the vital, long-term help needed to cope with real-life challenges and focus on personal healing and growth.This episode offers a powerful and honest look at the realities of long-term recovery. Marina and Star’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn't just about abstaining from substances — it's about building a new life and healing from past trauma. It's about setting new goals, creating a safe family environment, and having a support system that sees you as a whole person, not just an addiction. Their journey from crisis to stability shows that with genuine support and unwavering effort, a family can change the trajectory of their lives and create a beautiful, sober future for themselves and their child.

August 1, 2025Episode 1327 min

Why Recovery Advocacy Matters – Part 4

A Conversation with Carina Raya – Part 4 In this episode of Archways' Threads, we conclude our four-part conversation with Carina Raya and Archways' CEO, Michelle Lennon. They explore the intricate process of integrating one's past self with their current identity in recovery, emphasizing that recovery is a dynamic and evolving journey rather than a static endpoint. The discussion dives deep into the nuances of sharing personal narratives for advocacy, highlighting the importance of strategic communication and the ongoing effort to combat pervasive societal stigma. This conversation provides invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of recovery, the critical role of peer and family support, and the necessity of fostering environments conducive to long-term well-being. Key Takeaways00:00 - Introduction00:46 - The Long Journey of Integration02:40 - Value Your Whole Self, Past and Present06:40 - Purposeful Story Sharing for Advocacy09:15 - Leveraging Technology for Tailored Narratives11:27 - Mentorship Refines Advocacy Stories 14:48 - Navigating Public Gratitude as an Advocate 20:51 - Recovery-Friendly Work Policies 24:20 - Recovery Education is Essential for Medical Students This episode offers a deeply personal and practical look at the ongoing process of recovery. Michelle and Carina’s candid conversation provides valuable insights into the continuous growth involved in recovery, the vital role of peer and family support, and the strategic approach to advocacy. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at podcast@archwaysnh.org or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

July 1, 2025Episode 1227 min

Why Recovery Advocacy Matters – Part 3

A Conversation with Carina Raya – Part 3 In part 3 of our discussion with Carina Raya, we explore the complexities of recovery and why building supportive communities is so crucial. We discuss how nonjudgmental interactions significantly impact a person's recovery journey. Carina shares her personal experiences, highlighting how genuine connections—even casual conversations—can influence someone's path to recovery, even if results aren't immediately obvious. Our conversation also highlights the often-overlooked challenges individuals in recovery face, especially when it comes to sharing their stories and advocating for themselves. We talk about how storytelling can be both empowering and expose people to the risk of being objectified. We agree it's vital to approach advocacy carefully, recognizing that recovery often intertwines with how society perceives and judges individuals. Key Takeaways:0:00 – Introduction2:22 – The Importance of Connection6:16 – The Role of Advocacy in Recovery7:09 – Cautionary Tales of Sharing Stories9:59 – Experiences in Advocacy17:33 – Breaking Stereotypes in Recovery22:04 – Barriers to Accessing Care23:38 – Uniting the Recovery Community Ultimately, this conversation reinforces that recovery is a shared community experience. Carina passionately argues that unifying diverse approaches—from substance abstinence to harm reduction—can help more people find their way into recovery. She encourages listeners to reflect on their perceptions, urging a collective effort to embrace a broader understanding of recovery, as fostering inclusion and empathy will ultimately benefit everyone. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at podcast@archwaysnh.org or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

June 1, 2025Episode 1127 min

Why Recovery Advocacy Matters – Part 2

A Conversation with Carina Raya – Part 2 In this insightful episode of Archways' Threads, host Michelle Lennon continues her compelling conversation with Carina Raya, delving deeper into the critical issues surrounding addiction, harm reduction, and public health policy. They shed light on the stark realities of the overdose crisis and challenge conventional approaches to substance use, advocating for evidence-based solutions and compassionate care. This discussion highlights the profound impact of policy decisions on individual lives and community well-being, emphasizing the need for understanding and support over judgment and punitive measures. Key Takeaways: 00:00 - Introduction00:44 - The Overdose Crisis as a National Emergency01:56 - Harm Reduction's Role in Saving Lives03:59 - Investing in Public Health Programs is Fiscally Responsible08:32 - Overdose Prevention Centers Offer Measurable Community Benefits10:17 - Why Punishment Doesn't Work19:10 - Addiction is a Compulsion, Not a Moral Failing25:50 - Compassionate Connection Fosters Long-Term Recovery This episode passionately argues for a paradigm shift in how society addresses substance use, advocating for policies rooted in compassion, public health, and evidence. By sharing personal stories and compelling data, Michelle and Carina powerfully illustrate that harm reduction strategies not only save lives but also lead to significant societal and economic benefits. Their conversation serves as a vital call to action, urging listeners to consider the profound positive impact of supporting individuals on their recovery journeys through accessible, non-judgmental services and programs. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at podcast@archwaysnh.org or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

May 1, 2025Episode 1026 min

Why Recovery Advocacy Matters – Part 1

A Conversation with Carina Raya – Part 1 In part one of this four-part interview, host Michelle Lennon, CEO of Archways, engages in a powerful conversation with Carina Raya, a remarkable student at George Washington University heading to med school with a strong focus on public health. This first discussion centers around the critical importance of sharing personal stories to advocate for recovery support services, especially in the face of funding cuts and the ongoing challenges within the peer recovery and public health fields. Carina shares her own compelling journey and insights into how lived experience can drive meaningful change. Key Takeaways: 00:00 - Introduction00:28 - The Urgency of Advocacy Amidst Funding Cuts04:21 - From Chaos to Credentials06:35 - The Lifeline of Public Safety Nets07:54 - Vocational Rehabilitation - A Catalyst for Change10:14 - Navigating the Complexities of Story Sharing 12:47 - Recovery as a Multifaceted Journey, Not a Single Cure16:34 - Evolving Perspectives and the Power of Long-Range Vision 19:01 - Lived Experience as a Tool for Systemic Change 21:20 - The Pervasiveness of Stigma in Healthcare 24:00 - Solution-Focused Advocacy in the Face of Crisis This episode powerfully illustrates the vital role of personal narratives in shaping policy and improving services for individuals in recovery. Carina’s story serves as an inspiring example of resilience and the potential for individuals with lived experience to become powerful advocates for change. The conversation underscores the importance of addressing stigma, promoting holistic approaches to recovery, and ensuring that the voices of those impacted by substance use are heard in the ongoing effort to build a more supportive and effective system. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at podcast@archwaysnh.org or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

April 1, 2025Episode 930 min

Pain Medication and Recovery

In this episode of Archways' Threads, host Michelle Lennon interviews Darryl Lennon about his experiences navigating major surgeries while maintaining his recovery. Darryl shares his journey, starting with his initial addiction after a severe accident, through years of hardship and recovery, and finally, his strategies for managing pain medication post-surgery. This conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of maintaining sobriety while facing necessary medical interventions and offers valuable insights for others in similar situations. Key Takeaways00:00 - Introduction01:53 - The Onset of Addiction03:31 - Transition to Self-Medication06:13 - Balancing Pain Management and Recovery08:26 - Experiences with Healthcare Providers14:44 - Strategies for Managing Pain Medication17:05 - The Importance of Trusted Support24:19 - The Role of Faith in Recovery Darryl's story is a powerful reminder of the complexities involved in maintaining recovery while facing medical challenges. His candid discussion about the difficulties of pain management, the importance of trusted support, and the role of faith offers invaluable guidance for anyone navigating similar circumstances. By sharing his experiences, Darryl underscores the importance of open communication with healthcare providers, the critical role of peer support, and the necessity of self-awareness in maintaining long-term recovery. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at podcast@archwaysnh.org or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.

March 1, 2025Episode 826 min

Cara, College, and Connection: Finding Recovery in Community – Part 2

A Conversation with Cara LaPlante – Part 2Link to Part 1 - https://share.transistor.fm/s/1f166bb7 Welcome to another episode of Archways' Threads! This podcast explores the threads of family and recovery support services that weave together the tapestry of life in recovery. In this episode, we continue our conversation with Cara LaPlante, diving deeper into her journey of collegiate recovery, her role in the recovery community, and the impact of creating recovery-friendly spaces on college campuses. Join host Michelle Lennon, CEO of Archways, as she and Cara discuss how personal experiences and community support can drive change and foster a culture of recovery. Key Takeaways: 00:00 – Introduction 02:38 - Cara’s Introduction to Recovery04:56 - The “Panther Pitch” and Collegiate Recovery Advocacy07:56 - Breaking the Stigma and Finding Community10:06 - The Role of Culture in Recovery Support12:05 - Overcoming Isolation in the College Experience15:12 - Creating Alcohol-Free Social Spaces19:35 - Sustainability and the Future of Recovery Programs Cara’s story is a testament to the power of recovery support and the impact of creating inclusive, stigma-free environments for those in recovery. Through her advocacy, she has helped shine a light on the necessity of collegiate recovery programs and the value of community in sustaining recovery. As this conversation continues, we encourage listeners to think about how they can contribute to fostering recovery-friendly spaces in their own communities. Thank you for tuning in to Archways' Threads! We’ll see you next time for more inspiring stories and discussions on peer and family recovery support. If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at podcast@archwaysnh.org or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers. If your business or organization has been thinking about creating a podcast and you aren’t sure how to start, reach out to our producer at https://smithdouglass.com.