A conversation with Mary Fuller on transforming recovery journeys into empowerment, community, and practical support—one handcrafted product at a time.
The Power of Purposeful Work in Recovery
On a recent episode of the Sober Curator Podcast, host Alysse Bryson and co-host Tamar Routley welcomed Mary Fuller, public relations and community awareness supervisor at Her 2nd Chance, for an inspiring dialogue about new beginnings, creative empowerment, and the tangible ways we can support women in recovery. Her 2nd Chance, based in sunny Boca Raton, Florida, isn’t just another nonprofit: it’s a vital launchpad for women rebuilding their lives after substance use disorders, and they do it one personalized mug, tumbler, and intention bracelet at a time.
From the moment Mary began sharing her experiences, it was evident that Her 2nd Chance isn’t about charity—it’s about creating opportunities that foster purpose, confidence, and long-lasting change. “We’ve had graduates recently who have just made my heart explode,” Mary said, recalling women who arrived unable to make eye contact, only to blossom into confident, employable individuals in a matter of months.
Creating with Intention: The Social Enterprise Model
So, how does Her 2nd Chance work? Mary explained that it’s a nonprofit social enterprise offering transitional employment and support programs for women in recovery. Their main social enterprise is a multi-faceted business: they run an e-commerce shop, maintain an active Etsy presence, and even take on business-to-business (B2B) orders for corporate gifts and event swag.
Here’s the twist—all their products are handcrafted by the women in their program. Gifts like mugs and candles aren’t just merchandise; they’re milestones in someone’s return to the workforce. As Mary put it perfectly, “We like to always say it’s purchase with a purpose.” When you buy from Her 2nd Chance, you directly support recovery journeys—the bold stat on their site reads: every purchase equals 22 minutes of paid employment for a woman in recovery.
The organization also recently partnered with the State of Gratitude, providing fulfillment services and making their signature beaded “gratitude intention wrap” bracelets. This is a true testament to recovery-friendly business, creativity, community, and commerce intertwined.
Beyond a Job: Whole-Person Support
Employment and skill-building are at the heart of Her 2nd Chance, but the program goes much deeper. Women participate in wellness workshops that range from art therapy to equine-assisted recovery sessions, designed to nurture well-being and sustainable self-care. This holistic approach underscores a critical truth: recovery isn’t just about abstinence; it’s about rebuilding a healthy, balanced life, and work can be part of that healing.
Career mentorship is another vital pillar. Participants meet with recruiting specialists who walk them through resume building and interview skills, preparing them for success in the traditional job market after their program ends. Mary recounted, with warmth and pride, the remarkable transformation she witnessed: traumatized, guilt-ridden individuals rekindling their self-worth and going on to careers in human resources and beyond.
Community, Creativity, and Pop Culture
Her 2nd Chance’s workshop floor is constantly buzzing with creativity. While a professional designer crafts most of the graphics for the merchandise, the women on the team play an active role in spotting trends and generating fresh product ideas through their plugged-in social media presence. “They’re a major creative part of what we do,” Mary shared.
This connection to pop culture not only informs their products but keeps the enterprise—and its beneficiaries—relevant and proud contributors in today’s world. As Alysse and Mary brainstormed collaborations and event involvement, it was clear: the intersection of advocacy, artistry, and sobriety is growing more vibrant by the day.
Paying It Forward: Impact That Lasts
Her 2nd Chance’s alumni don’t just exit the program and disappear—they stop by to update current participants, share their stories, and reinforce the possibilities that come with sobriety and solid support. Mary personally helps document these transformation journeys, capturing the emotional progress that can sometimes elude day-to-day awareness. As she noted, seeing one’s story in writing “makes it real”—a powerful reminder of how far these women have come.
With partnerships expanding, events like Boca Festival Days on the horizon, and a constant push to spread awareness, Her 2nd Chance invites everyone to get involved—whether by shopping their products, volunteering, or sharing their message.
Final Thoughts
Mary Fuller’s insights and the Her 2nd Chance mission illuminate the immense impact of meaningful work and community in recovery. It’s not just about second chances. It’s about new beginnings, restored confidence, and a bright and creative future for the women they support.
Interested in lending a hand or snapping up a purpose-driven gift? Visit her2ndchance.org—because every minute, every purchase, and every story matters. You can also follow them on IG @her2ndchance.
Getting sober is one thing—but staying sober? That’s where the real adventure begins.
This show is for you if you’ve ever wondered:
– Where can I find inspiring sober podcasts, apps, and creators?
– How do I give back or stay plugged into the sober community
– What are the best sober-friendly drinks and travel tips?
– Where do I find the good NA drinks that don’t taste like regret?
The Sober Curator is your go-to for sober pop culture, booze-free travel, apps, creators, and community.
We’re not here to help you get sober.
We’re here to help you live sober—and love it.
In this gripping episode, Alysse sits down with filmmaker Benjamin Flaherty for a powerful conversation about the business behind addiction recovery — and why too many families are left carrying shame, confusion, and financial devastation while trying to save their loved ones. Benjamin’s documentary exposes the economics, ethics, and emotional fallout inside the modern treatment industry, while also honoring the parents, advocates, and survivors who continue fighting for change.
From medically assisted treatment debates to the insurance inequalities that shape who gets quality care, this episode goes deeper than most sober conversations dare to go. It’s raw, urgent, and grounded in truth — the kind of discussion that can only happen in a space built for honesty.
Takeaways:
Families aren’t alone. Many parents attend screenings thinking their child’s exploitation or treatment experience was “their fault” — Benjamin’s film shows the systemic patterns behind the pain.
Recovery has an economic engine. Benjamin describes the shocking moment he realized how profitability shapes care, access, and outcomes in the treatment world.
Insurance determines who gets humane care. Both Benjamin and Alysse reflect on how “good insurance” gave them safe recovery environments — an advantage many don’t have.
Pop culture shapes our understanding. Films like Dopesick, Painkiller, Pain Hustlers, Body Brokers help raise awareness but flatten nuance; documentaries add back the complexity.
Conversations spark courage. When parents meet each other at screenings, shame lifts and the real healing begins.
Key Timestamps:
00:06:40 — Benjamin’s turning point: quitting alcohol & cocaine in high-pressure advertising
00:07:45 — The myth of “the next milestone” that will magically fix everything
00:08:20 — Why treatment is the only major health process most people don’t understand
00:26:26 — Parents finding relief and validation through the film
00:27:00 — The economics of recovery: what families aren’t told
00:28:00 — Alysse shares her own insurance-based experience and privilege in treatment access
00:28:20 — Pop culture portrayals of recovery & exploitation (Body Brokers, Painkiller, Dopesick)
00:41:56 — The media Benjamin loves — and what representations resonate most
Resources & Links:
Website / Film https://www.stoptheshuffle.com/
Instagram: @benjaminflaherty
YouTube Trailer: OFFICIAL TRAILER | SHUFFLE
–Alcohol + Substance Use Disorder Guide
–Recovery Nonprofit Resource Guide
–LBGTQ+ Recovery Resource Guide
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About:
Sobriety isn’t the end of the party—it’s just the start of a better one. Hosted by Alysse Bryson, media powerhouse and sobriety’s ultimate hype woman, and joined by Sober Curator contributors, The Sober Curator Podcast* delivers bold convos, pop culture deep dives, and zero-proof living that doesn’t suck. Whether you're sober, sober-curious, or just looking for good vibes without the hangover, we’ve got you covered. Subscribe now—because getting sober matters, staying sober matters more.
*The Sober Curator Podcast is a space for open and honest conversations about sobriety, recovery, and alcohol-free living. While we celebrate all paths to a sober lifestyle, some topics discussed may be sensitive or triggering for certain listeners. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If you’re in recovery or exploring sobriety, please take care while listening and seek support from trusted professionals as needed.
#ADDTOCART: A Gift from the Heart: Celebrate Mother’s Day with Purpose from Her 2nd Chance
God, grant us the serenity to #ADDTOCART! Sober retail therapy is our favorite kind of workout—mindful, fun, and community-focused. In this section, you’ll discover unique sobriety gifts, premium recovery swag, and must-have merch we can’t stop raving about. We love featuring small businesses founded by people in recovery, sober creators, and brands that champion mental health and the sober lifestyle. From #QUITLIT reads to stylish glassware and meaningful recovery keepsakes, our curated picks make every purchase a celebration of sober living.
Shop our classic Sober Curator merch on SHOPTHESOBERCURATOR.COM for and explore our TSC Amazon Storefront featuring curated lists packed with gifts, books, and sober essentials.
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
NONPROFIT RECOVERY GUIDE at The Sober Curator, we believe in the transformative power of giving—whether it’s volunteering your time, sharing your unique talents, or donating money. Giving back not only strengthens our communities, but research shows it also increases happiness, promotes longevity, and deepens our sense of connection.
Created in partnership with the Break Free Foundation, our Nonprofit Recovery Resource Guide is a curated directory of reputable, recovery-related organizations. These groups not only welcome donations and volunteers but also provide vital assistance to individuals seeking help for addiction, mental health challenges, and recovery support.
We’re always on the lookout for new ways to give back. If you know of a nonprofit focused on recovery or mental health that should be featured, email us at thesobercurator@gmail.com.
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A Disco Ball is Hundreds of Pieces of Broken Glass, Put Together to Make a Magical Ball of Light. You are NOT Broken, Friend. You are a DISCO BALL!
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
