S6 E1 Coach Mike Ferullo and Meaghan Langlois on Running Towards Recovery

Beyond Theory

In the season six premiere of Beyond Theory, host Dominic Lawson explores the power of running and community support for individuals in addiction recovery. The episode features interviews with Coach Mike Ferullo, founder of the Boston Bulldogs Running Club, and Meghan Langlois, the club's Director of Programs and Outreach, who share insights on their integrative approach to wellness.

Coach Mike discusses how he started volunteering to promote fitness in recovery settings 17 years ago, recognizing exercise as a missing link in clinical addiction treatment programs. He eventually founded the Boston Bulldogs Running Club, which has grown to over 400 members across 3 chapters. The club focuses on fostering self-leadership, transparency, and giving back, while providing structured programs like the 6-week "Full Circle" to help people build confidence and expand their potential.

Meaghan shares her personal journey of struggling with addiction from a young age and the turning point that led her to the Boston Bulldogs. Despite not being a runner, she took the leap and found a welcoming community that supported her wellness beyond just sobriety. She emphasizes how the club is inclusive of all individuals impacted by or supportive of addiction recovery.

The Boston Bulldogs demonstrates the power of integrative wellness, combining physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual development. Through running and social-emotional support, the club helps members tap into their true potential and find lasting recovery. Coach Mike underscores that while change is challenging, it's possible for everyone, no matter how hopeless they may feel.

Key Takeaways:

1. Exercise is a powerful tool in addiction recovery: The Boston Bulldogs Running Club demonstrates how incorporating physical fitness, specifically running, can be a transformative component of a comprehensive addiction treatment plan.

2. Community support is crucial for lasting recovery: Surrounding oneself with a supportive, inclusive community like the Boston Bulldogs can provide the social-emotional encouragement and accountability needed for long-term addiction recovery success.

3. Recovery goes beyond sobriety: True wellness in addiction recovery involves integrative development of the mind, body, and spirit. The Boston Bulldogs emphasize this holistic approach to help members thrive in all aspects of their lives.

4. Structured programs can help build confidence and potential: Offerings like the Boston Bulldogs' 6-week "Full Circle" program provide a framework for individuals to gradually build their running abilities and self-assurance, expanding their sense of what's possible in recovery.

5. Personal transformation is possible for everyone: No matter how hopeless someone may feel in their addiction, change is achievable. The Boston Bulldogs' inspiring member stories showcase the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of supportive recovery communities.

6. Simple actions can spark significant change: As Megan's story illustrates, small steps like simply showing up for a running club can be the catalyst for profound positive shifts in one's recovery journey.

7. Giving back enhances recovery: Coach Mike and the Boston Bulldogs emphasize the importance of giving back to the community as part of the recovery process, fostering a sense of purpose and connection.

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This episode offers hope and practical insights for anyone seeking holistic addiction recovery support. The Boston Bulldogs Running Club serves as an inspiring model for combining exercise, community, and personal development to help individuals not only achieve sobriety but thrive in their wellness journey.