They Bet She’d Leave Rehab. She Stayed and Became a Leader. | Kitty Marie Ep45

Kitty Marie walked into rehab convinced she had nothing to show for her life. Today, people call her a leader. Sometimes, she still wonders if they’re talking about the right person. Kitty joins Ryan Penley on The Next Fix to share her journey through opioid and meth addiction, abusive relationships, an 84-month federal prison sentence, and the difficult work of starting over. Getting out of prison didn’t end the cycle. What began to change things was telling the truth in a room full of strangers and discovering that people who barely knew her were willing to help. Through rehab, 12-step recovery, and Oxford House sober living, Kitty began building a life she once thought was out of reach. But belonging came with its own question: What would these people think if they knew her past? In this episode, we talk about: • Why familiar relationships can pull you back toward addiction • Asking for help when you’re used to keeping everything inside • Finding community, accountability, and purpose in recovery • Rebuilding your confidence and career with a criminal record • Learning to believe you belong in the life you’re building Today, Kitty works in accounts payable, a position she secured after being honest about her background during the hiring process. She also serves in Oxford House leadership as a Housing Service Committee chairperson, helping recovery homes resolve challenges and support their residents. Through Hospitals and Institutions service, she brings her experience and encouragement to people in detox and early recovery. Her purpose is personal: show love to people who may have none, and help them see a future beyond addiction. “There is a way back and it’s not easy, but it’s absolutely worth it.” CONNECT WITH KITTY Follow Kitty, let her know what her story meant to you, and share this conversation with someone who needs hope. Instagram: @kittymarie1022   / kittymarie1022   Facebook: Kitty Marie   / 1dhdsbx5wu   Follow The Next Fix for honest conversations about addiction, sobriety, and making the second half of life count. Explore more with Ryan: https://ryanpenley.org (https://ryanpenley.org/)