The Phoenix Founder and Executive Director Scott Strode recently appeared on the TODAY show and on The Kelly Clarkson Show to discuss his personal journey of overcoming addiction and building a nationwide movement of hope. Since its founding in 2005, The Phoenix has empowered more than 700,000 people to thrive in sobriety.
On TODAY, Strode explained his mission is to help every member of The Phoenix find their own “intrinsic strength.” One of the many ways Strode’s organization helps members to reveal that strength is by fostering connection with peers through group activities.
There’s “something about crossing the finish line or standing on top of a mountain,” Strode told TODAY hosts. “You can see something in yourself that you can't see in the everyday, and then that starts to push out those [doubts] about your self-worth.”
Strode’s new “memoir with a mission” called RISE. RECOVER. THRIVE. How I Got Strong, Got Sober, and Built a Movement of Hope, chronicles his journey and the creation of The Phoenix.
“We see the dignity, strength, and ability to transform in every single person that comes to The Phoenix,” Strode told Kelly Clarkson. “We don’t see people as a problem to be managed—we see them as part of the solution.”
Ashley, a volunteer at The Phoenix, joined the Kelly Clarkson interview to share her inspiring testimony: “I didn’t realize what my life was missing until I found this authentic connection and community. I wouldn’t have experienced it so deeply without The Phoenix.”
Clarkson concluded the segment by praising Scott and Ashley, “Thank you for paying it forward. You’re not only helping yourself but you're helping others. It’s such a beautiful thing.”
