In this episode of the Addiction Recovery Podcast, hosts Ronnie LeDuff and Michael Oakley welcome LaShona Mosby, founder of Families with a Broken Heart Due to Senseless Violence, for one of the most emotional conversations we've had on the show.

After losing her son, Corinthian, to gun violence in 2014—a tragedy that also left her two other sons wounded—LaShona made the courageous decision to turn unimaginable pain into a mission of hope. Instead of allowing tragedy to define her family, she chose to become an advocate for healing, supporting families affected by violence, addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges.

Through her organization and community initiatives like "Tragedy to Triumph," LaShona has created a space where survivors can share their stories, encourage one another, and remind families that they are never alone. Her message is simple but powerful: your greatest pain does not have to be the end of your story—it can become the beginning of someone else's hope.

Ronnie, Michael, and LaShona discuss grief, forgiveness, faith, and the connection between trauma and addiction. They explore how communities can come together to break cycles of violence, support mental wellness, and create lasting change through compassion and service.

This episode is a powerful reminder that even after life's darkest moments, healing is possible—and purpose can be found in places we never expected.

🎧 Tune in to Episode 104 to hear LaShona Mosby's incredible story of resilience, faith, and turning tragedy into triumph.

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In this episode of the Addiction Recovery Podcast, hosts Ronnie LeDuff and Michael Oakley welcome Donna Burks, a mental health and substance abuse professional whose career has been dedicated to helping individuals find healing, stability, and long-term recovery.

Donna holds a Master's degree and serves as a PLPC (Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor) and SAP (Substance Abuse Professional), bringing both clinical knowledge and real-world experience to the conversation. She currently works as a Substance Abuse Professional in the Baton Rouge area, helping individuals navigate recovery, treatment, and the challenges that come with rebuilding life after addiction.

Throughout this episode, Donna shares her perspective on the connection between mental health and addiction, the importance of addressing underlying issues that fuel substance use, and why recovery requires more than simply abstaining from drugs or alcohol. She discusses the value of accountability, professional support, and creating healthy systems that allow people to thrive long after treatment ends.

Ronnie, Michael, and Donna dive into the realities many families face when addiction enters the picture, the role counselors play in helping individuals find hope, and why no one should have to walk the recovery journey alone.

This conversation is full of wisdom, encouragement, and practical insight for anyone seeking recovery, supporting a loved one, or working in the behavioral health field.

🎧 Tune in to Episode 103 to hear Donna Burks' perspective on healing, mental health, and building a strong foundation for lasting recovery.

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In this episode of the Addiction Recovery Podcast, hosts Ronnie LeDuff and Michael Oakley welcome Katie True for an honest conversation about recovery, healing, and the power of finding your true identity after addiction.

Katie shares her personal journey through addiction, the challenges she faced along the way, and the moments that ultimately led her toward recovery. She opens up about rebuilding her life, learning to trust the process, and discovering that freedom is about much more than simply putting down a substance—it's about becoming the person you were always meant to be.

Throughout the episode, Katie discusses the importance of community, accountability, and surrounding yourself with people who genuinely want to see you succeed. Her story is one of resilience, growth, and hope for anyone who feels trapped by their past.

Ronnie, Michael, and Katie dive into the realities of recovery, the lessons learned through adversity, and how sharing our stories can help others realize they are not alone in their struggles.

This conversation is filled with honesty, encouragement, and proof that recovery is possible no matter where your journey begins.

🎧 Tune in to Episode 102 to hear Katie True’s story and learn how healing, purpose, and perseverance can transform a life.

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