In honor of Native American Heritage Month, we’re revisiting Episode 39 of King County Recovery Conversations.
Host Carolyn Presnell sits down with Scott and Loni Long to explore their inspiring journeys through addiction, recovery, and healing through cultural connection.
Scott shares the challenges of creating a safe, sober home environment while supporting family members still facing addiction. Carolyn relates to the intergenerational struggle of breaking familial cycles of substance use and working to provide a healthier upbringing for the next generation.
Loni’s story begins with a profound spiritual awakening with her baby—an experience that became the catalyst for her recovery. Through regular meetings, Native cultural practices, and spiritual healing, she found strength and purpose. Her journey underscores the importance of reclaiming cultural identity and the powerful ripple effect of sobriety within families.
This episode highlights how traditional Native practices—such as powwows, drumming circles, and spiritual ceremonies—create community, belonging, and a foundation for recovery. Scott and Loni share how they teach their children empathy and spirituality, helping nurture a new generation grounded in love, identity, and connection.
Learn more about King County Recovery Coalition and the work we do at www.kcrecovery.org.
The King County Recovery Coalition is a regional coalition of the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA) — www.washingtonrecoveryalliance.org.
If you or someone you know is experiencing substance use disorder, problem gambling, or a mental health challenge, please visit the Washington Recovery Helpline for resources and 24-hour support.
🎧 King County Recovery Conversations celebrates recovery and challenges stigma by sharing real stories of hope, resilience, and community. Hosted by Carolyn Presnell, each episode explores diverse pathways to recovery through candid conversations with people in recovery, service providers, and policy leaders.
Connect with King County Recovery Coalition online, on Facebook, or on YouTube.
Got feedback or show ideas? Email Carolyn at carolyn@kcrecovery.org or send a voice message on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/king-county-recovery/message.