Solstice Recovery Podcast Page Series: Ep 1

Welcome to the Solstice Podcast Pages - Insights and Highlights

Hosted by Eric Bornstein, leader in the Los Angeles Alcoholics Anonymous community, and founder of Solstice Recovery: A Sober Living Home for Men. 

Drawing from Eric’s and co-host Brian Meyerhofer’s personal recovery journeys, they discuss the trials and tribulations of recovery, and their unique professional experience of serving the sober community. Guests with unique perspectives are brought on to add valuable context and new perspectives.

This inaugural episode explores the significance of sober living homes within early sobriety. We’ve produced key insights below for your ease of access, but we strongly suggest taking the time to listen to the entire podcast to get a complete understanding.

Follow Along with Some Key Insights & Highlights

1. The Symbolism Behind “Solstice” Recovery (00:31–01:43)

“The solstice symbolizes the highest and lowest points of the sun—mirroring the lowest points of addiction and the highest points of recovery. It’s all about transformation, growth, and renewal.” 

Eric powerfully explains the symbolic meaning behind the name “Solstice,” emphasizing its profound representation of the overall sobriety recovery journey—highlighting the transitions from the darkest moments of addiction to the brightest points of healing and growth.

2. The Role of Sober Living Homes in Early Sobriety (02:22–05:17)

“Recovery isn’t just about abstinence—it’s about reconnecting. The community here protects individuals from themselves, offering a sense of belonging that’s essential to healing.”

Eric clearly outlines the critical role sober living homes play as transitional spaces for recovery. He shares insight into the structured, supportive environment Solstice offers, emphasizing the necessity of sustained recovery through community, accountability, and structured living.

3. Why Short-Term Recovery Isn’t Enough (05:18–07:06)

“We serve as a bridge—providing a structured, substance-free environment where individuals build the foundation necessary to sustain lasting recovery.”

With firsthand experience, Eric discusses why early sobriety (30–60 days) is rarely sufficient for lasting recovery. He advocates for a 6-month to 1-year stay at Solstice, underscoring the importance of long-term structure and ongoing community support.

4. The Power of Community in Recovery

“Recovery is about reconnecting—to self, to others, and to life itself. It’s stepping out of isolation and back into community.”

Eric emphasizes the necessity of community support, referencing Carl Jung’s insight about recovery through “the loving hands of human community.” He describes vividly how community-based recovery programs, like Solstice, provide crucial emotional and psychological support.

5. The Severity and Reality of Modern Substance Abuse (07:07–07:40)

“We must face the reality of this disease today—not tomorrow. Lives are lost every day, and awareness coupled with immediate action can make the difference.”

Eric shares critical insights on current challenges, particularly the devastating impact of fentanyl. His perspective underscores the urgency and importance of getting sober now, given the severe and often deadly consequences of addiction.

6. Eric’s Personal Experience & Credibility (07:41–08:42)

“There was so much power in the autonomy of knowing it was my choice to get sober. I’m on the path to better my life—trudging the road of happy destiny.”

Eric’s personal journey—eight years sober and over four years successfully operating sober living homes—positions him as an authority. His story emphasizes credibility, sincerity, and a genuine desire to help others achieve recovery.

7. Building Leadership through Recovery (08:43–12:33)

“True leadership in recovery means guiding newcomers—holding the door open for the next person. That’s how recovery sustains and grows.”

Eric passionately discusses leadership’s role in recovery, highlighting the responsibility recovered individuals have to mentor newcomers. He emphasizes the spiritual growth inherent in helping others.

8. Physical Wellness as a Cornerstone of Recovery

“Physical fitness reconnects us with our bodies, grounding us in the present and providing a critical component for sustained sobriety.”

Eric stresses the importance of physical fitness and healthy living in sobriety, emphasizing how reconnecting with one’s body through physical activity aids emotional healing and spiritual growth.

9. Psychic Change & the Spiritual Path (12:34–16:39)

“Sobriety is the tip of the iceberg. True recovery involves deep psychological and spiritual change—completely transforming the way we engage with the world.”

Eric delves into the concept of “psychic change,” highlighting the necessity of deep, internal transformation for lasting recovery. He acknowledges the incremental yet powerful shifts in perspective that sobriety demands.

10. Fun & Fellowship in Sobriety (23:49–26:42)

“Sobriety isn’t about deprivation; it’s about discovering how to enjoy life fully—without substances. That’s why our community prioritizes fellowship and fun.”

Finally, Eric emphasizes the importance of fun and community-building activities in early recovery, reinforcing the idea that sober life can be deeply fulfilling and enjoyable.

Conclusion & Goals for the Podcast (36:29–38:39)

 “We’re looking to raise consciousness around addiction, to translate beautiful experiences we’ve had in recovery, making them accessible to everyone.”

Eric summarizes the podcast’s mission: to educate, inspire, and foster deeper understanding of addiction and recovery.