RCVR Stories
RCVR Stories — Real People. Real Recovery. Real Hope.
RCVR Stories is the evolution of what began as The Begin Again Podcast.
Same mission. Same heart. Bigger purpose.
Hosted by Gary Menkes — sober since 2006, founder of the recovery lifestyle brand RCVR, and believer that every comeback story deserves to be heard — this podcast shares unfiltered conversations with people who have rebuilt their lives through recovery.
Each week, we explore stories of addiction, transformation, resilience, mental health, and the powerful truth that you are not alone.
From athletes and artists to entrepreneurs, creators, and everyday heroes, RCVR Stories shines a light on the voices that prove recovery is not just possible — it’s extraordinary.
This is more than a podcast.
This is a movement.
A tribe of a million comebacks.
Welcome to RCVR Stories.
RCVR Stories
🌟EP 101 - From Trauma to Triumph: Jay Barnard’s Story
In this compelling episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Mankey invites motivational speaker and CEO Jay Barnard to share his transformative journey from addiction and trauma to recovery and empowerment.
Jay details his struggle with addiction, stemming from deep-seated trauma, and his multiple battles with suicidal thoughts—even years into his recovery. He discusses finding solace and purpose in being a chef, where he created the brand 'Chef Recovery.'
Jay's turning point came through a profound personal investment in a relationship coach, which led him to understand that healing required addressing his trauma directly.
Now, as the founder of Empower to Recover Foundation, Jay travels Canada hosting events that unite recovery communities by demonstrating that everyone heals differently but that hope and transformation are universally accessible. His honest recounting of his setbacks, including nearly taking his life even after years of sobriety, underscores the importance of self-love, continuous personal development, and the courage to seek and offer help.
This episode is a poignant reminder that healing is a lifelong journey where small steps can lead to monumental change.
Follow Jay’s journey and join the movement:
IG: @chefrecoveryjaybarnard
🌐 empower2recover.com
IG: @empower2recover
► Visit our website here: WeAreRCVR.com
🔥 Check Out RCVR Brand! 🔥
Beyond the podcast, Gary is also the founder of We Are RCVR, a movement dedicated to celebrating recovery and resilience through empowering apparel. RCVR is all about breaking the stigma, building community, and wearing your sobriety with pride. Explore the collection and join the movement!
🔗 Shop Now: https://WeAreRCVR.com
🌟 Become a Voice for Recovery – Earn While Inspiring Others
Join the RCVR Affiliate Program and share the message of hope, healing, and living your best life.
★ Let's connect:
Twitter - https://x.com/wearercvr
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearercvr/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wearercvr
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wearercvr/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rcvrtribe