This week we skipped the script for a real fireside chat.

Greg, Rich, and Liam talk about what it actually takes to get by when money is tight — and why needing help is nothing to be ashamed of.

With costs climbing and grocery budgets shrinking, more of us are leaning on food pantries, benefits, and community help than ever.

Liam shares how treatment for alcohol quietly changed his life and connected him to a disability attorney, SNAP, and food pantries.

Rich brings years of food-pantry volunteering — and a story about being treated like a checklist instead of a person.

Together they land on peer support specialists, then drift into soccer, coaching kids, drums, and why a healthy hobby can quietly save a life.

What we get into:Why asking for help is not a stigma — you're not alone in itHow recovery and treatment can open unexpected doors to resourcesWhere to actually start looking: mental health agencies, rehabs, churchesOhio's PIPP for utility bills, and Dress for Success for interview clothingPeer support specialists: lived experience as a strengthHealthy hobbies as a protective factor — sports and music

Chapters:(00:00) Welcome & who's here today(02:00) Getting help is not a stigma(03:00) The cost-of-living squeeze(03:47) Liam's recovery story & finding resources(06:25) PIPP & help with utility bills(08:00) Food pantries & where to start looking(11:37) Peer support specialists(13:27) Seen as a person, not a checklist(17:05) Grassroots sports, music & healthy hobbies(31:42) Warm lines, 988 & closing

This episode featured Greg, Rich, and Liam.

Not in crisis but need to talk? Call or text 988, or search NAMI's warmline directory.

💜 Free weekly peer support groups:

Brain Injury (Mon 1PM ET)

Chronic Pain (Tue 12PM ET)

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