When I first visited Stable Recovery, I knew something meaningful was happening there: not just treatment, but transformation. In this episode, founder Christian Countzler shares his journey from addiction to building a place designed to remove the barriers he faced when trying to get well. Alongside him are Sandy and Dave Schimizzi, my aunt and uncle, who speak openly about losing their son Alex and the heartbreaking gaps they encountered while trying to help him.

Together, we talk about the individuality of addiction, the pressures families aren’t prepared for, and the moments that make long-term recovery so difficult without real support. This is an emotional episode, but it’s also hopeful, a reminder that change is possible when communities, not just individuals, show up.

What You’ll Discover:

• Christian’s story and the origins of Stable Recovery (06:25)
• Alex’s journey and early emotional struggles (11:57)
• The fear and uncertainty families live with daily (23:01)
• The critical need for purpose and follow-up care (27:44)
• The depth of despair people can experience (57:09)
• The limitations of sentencing and current treatment options (72:19)
• Why it’s important to not give up on loved ones (80:05)

This conversation doesn’t offer easy answers. But it does offer truth, the kind that helps people feel less alone.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PKllImyOOlo

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/stable-recovery-28

Check out more from Stable Recovery:

See their website.

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Donate today.

Learn more about Lindsay’s visits to Stable Recovery from these videos:

Horses Hold the Power on Path to Lasting Sobriety

The Healing Power of Horses ‘Putting People Back Together’

Mike Lowery’s Passion for Horses and Gratitude for a New Lease on Life

Read more from Christian Countzler about navigating sobriety during the holidays with his article: “If you’re navigating sobriety during the holidays, know you’re not alone”

If you are in the US and need immediate help, connect with treatment and mental health referrals near you by: Calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357) Texting your zip code to HELP4U (435748)