From Mobster to Rabbi: The Story from Addiction and Crime to Recovery
May 8, 2017
Hosted by Ray Lynch
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Guest Information
Episode Description
As the CEO and Senior Rabbi of Beit T’Shuvah, a nonprofit, non-sectarian, Jewish addiction treatment center and synagogue community in Los Angeles, Rabbi Mark’s leadership is unparalleled. Community members, addicts, educators, dignitaries, and executives all seek his wisdom; a blend of street savvy, and wise rabbinic teachings. When working with people, he is living proof that change is possible; when speaking to the congregant, he stands for the hope that every man has a higher purpose. After being released from prison in 1988 he began his work at Beit T’Shuvah. Over the past twenty-eight years, he has helped co-create one of the most exceptional approaches to addiction treatment and criminal rehabilitation and reintegration in the world.
Miracles in Recovery
Archives Available on VoiceAmerica Health and Wellness Channel
On Miracles in Recovery we discuss all aspects of addiction and recovery and how they affect our families, communities, and the relationships within them. Join us for answers on how twelve step recovery programs can work in the lives of addicts and their families. We are also open to discuss any alternative options that have been working in your life as well. It starts by looking in the mirror. Hope is in your corner.
Ray Lynch
I was born and raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts, where my parents divorced when I was nine years old. When my mother remarried, two step-brothers and a step-sister joined my older sister and two younger brothers. If you are thinking “Brady Bunch,” you kind of have the picture (but not G-rated like the TV version).
As a teenager I became a commercial fisherman, and that is where my life took a destructive turn. The waterfront was rampant with heroin and cocaine use and I endured many years of active addiction that finally rendered me homeless, helpless and loveless. I joined the Marine Corps in 1982 to try to get away from my surroundings but found myself back in the same boat after my time in the service ended.
My life changed for the better on February 28, 1989 when I fortunately became a MIRACLE IN RECOVERY. Since then, I have made it my quest to give back what was given to me, one day at a time without the obsessive restrictions of active addiction.
My life is second to none today and I encourage you to become a MIRACLE IN RECOVERY as well. Listen in as I share my experience, strength, and hope that an addict, any addict, can stop using drugs, lose the desire to use, and find a new way to live.
My message is hope and the promise of freedom.
