Journey Enterprises

Brant Dadaleares, the owner of Gross Confection Bar in Portland’s Old Port, has a deep history in the restaurant industry, shaped by both talent and struggles with addiction. Raised by alcoholics in South Portland and Brunswick, he turned to alcohol at a young age and was eventually expelled from the New England Culinary Institute due to his drinking. Despite his challenges, he built a successful career in Portland’s thriving food scene, working at top restaurants like Fore Street. However, the pressures of the industry, combined with easy access to alcohol and drugs, led to two DUI convictions and personal struggles. His turning point came in 2014, when a severe fall left him with facial injuries. The next day, his ex-boyfriend and current boyfriend gave him an ultimatum: quit drinking or lose them both. Around the same time, court-mandated counseling forced him to reevaluate his life. A key moment came when his counselor, Steve Danzig, pointed out that while Brant was criticizing others, at least they were "doing it." Inspired, Brant wrote a business plan for a dessert bar. He started pop-up events, gained a reputation, and eventually secured funding. With the support of a local bank and a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $35,000, he launched Gross Confection Bar, Portland’s only dessert bar. The business celebrated its first anniversary in January 2020. Now sober, Brant reflects on the damage alcohol caused in his life but embraces his love for coffee with humor. His journey highlights resilience, entrepreneurship, and recovery in an industry where addiction is common.

"Whirlpools of Risk" is the second video in our course (thanks to Addiction Policy Forum)—breaking down why some people develop substance use disorders while others don’t. This video helps frame the conversation by explaining: 1?? Risk factors matter – Genetics, environment, and age of first use all influence a person’s likelihood of developing a substance use disorder. 2?? Substance use follows a pathway – From initiation to regular use, risky use, and, for some, addiction. 3?? Think of it like a whirlpool – Some substances pull people in faster than others. For example, over 70% of heroin users develop a substance use disorder, compared to 9% of alcohol users. 4?? Using multiple substances increases risk – The more substances involved, the greater the chance of addiction. 5?? Understanding these risks can help prevent addiction – Awareness is key to breaking the cycle and getting support early. It’s just a few minutes long - if you've often asked yourself why do some people have trouble and others don't ... this might help explain it.

From addiction to building a life of purpose, Matthew W. Senecal is proof that recovery can lead to incredible transformation. A successful business owner, Matt spent years hiding behind the illusion of success while battling addiction. After a near-tragic moment, he found recovery—and everything changed. Now, with 11 years of sobriety, he leads Senecal Construction, surrounds himself with a strong team, and is living the life he never thought possible. "I couldn’t have accomplished any of this without sobriety. I wouldn’t be here." thanks Amy Paradysz for capturing his story so beautifully

"The Hijacker" is the very first video in our Recovery Basics course -- thanks to Addiction Policy Forum! We start most webinars and presentations with this video - it helps to frame the conversation with a basic understanding that: 1?? Addiction rewires the brain, making substances feel as necessary as food and water 2?? It weakens self-control, tricking the brain into craving more 3?? Recovery is possible—with treatment and support, the brain can heal It's about 3 minutes and if you are curious about what was discovered in the 1950s that is still not well known or understood today, check out the video.

From Recovery to Reinvention: How One Entrepreneur Turned Sobriety into Innovation By 2016, Tom Filippini's addiction had reached a breaking point. Living in Denver with his wife and kids, he made the life-changing decision to get sober. But for Tom, sobriety wasn’t just about quitting alcohol—it was about reclaiming his ability to dream, create, and truly live. That new beginning led him to Pepper Pong, a game that blends the best of ping pong and pickleball into a portable, fun experience anyone can play anywhere. More than just a business, Pepper Pong became a way for Tom to give back. He donates game sets to recovery centers, hoping to provide others with the same sense of connection and purpose that helped him in early recovery. In late 2024, Tom’s journey and innovation landed him on Shark Tank, making one of the biggest launches in the show’s history. Within four days, over 10,000 Pepper Pong sets were sold. But for Tom, the biggest success isn’t the sales—it’s the people who have reached out, inspired by his story and the possibilities of life in recovery. His journey is proof that recovery isn’t just about leaving something behind—it’s about building something new. Let’s celebrate stories like Tom’s—stories of resilience, reinvention, and the power of community.

Recovery Basics: Education That Creates Change Addiction affects nearly half of the U.S. population, and 75% of those who struggle are employed. Yet, stigma and misinformation often prevent individuals from seeking help. We believe education is the key to understanding, empathy, and action. When people have the right knowledge, they can challenge misconceptions and support recovery in meaningful ways. Recovery Basics is a free, private digital course that provides essential information about addiction, recovery pathways, and available resources. Thanks to The Harold Alfond Center for the Advancement of Maine's Workforce and others, we are able to offer this course at no cost. What You'll Learn: > Addiction & Recovery: Addiction is a brain disorder, not a moral failing. > Recovery improves health, wellness, and quality of life. > Breaking Stigma: Shame and misinformation prevent people from seeking help. Workplaces can foster open, supportive conversations. > Pathways to Recovery: There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Clinical treatment, peer support, and self-managed recovery all play a role. > Workplace Support: Employees can challenge misconceptions, use compassionate language, and create an inclusive environment. This 60-minute, self-paced course equips employees with the knowledge to build awareness and support recovery in the workplace. Join us in making recovery education a priority. #amplifyhope #recoverybasics

From Recovery to Reinvention: How One Entrepreneur Turned Sobriety into Innovation By 2016, Tom Filippini's addiction had reached a breaking point. Living in Denver with his wife and kids, he made the life-changing decision to get sober. But for Tom, sobriety wasn’t just about quitting alcohol—it was about reclaiming his ability to dream, create, and truly live. That new beginning led him to Pepper Pong, a game that blends the best of ping pong and pickleball into a portable, fun experience anyone can play anywhere. More than just a business, Pepper Pong became a way for Tom to give back. He donates game sets to recovery centers, hoping to provide others with the same sense of connection and purpose that helped him in early recovery. In late 2024, Tom’s journey and innovation landed him on Shark Tank, making one of the biggest launches in the show’s history. Within four days, over 10,000 Pepper Pong sets were sold. But for Tom, the biggest success isn’t the sales—it’s the people who have reached out, inspired by his story and the possibilities of life in recovery. His journey is proof that recovery isn’t just about leaving something behind—it’s about building something new. Let’s celebrate stories like Tom’s—stories of resilience, reinvention, and the power of community.

we amplify hope through content, education and community engagement bringing what we know to be true out to communities special thanks to the Rotary for providing us with bags to share valuable resources with communities!

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures Meet Dan Belyea, a leader shaping Maine’s workforce with a personal mission. As the Chief Workforce Development Officer for the Maine Community College System, Dan is not only driving economic opportunities—he’s proving that recovery fuels success. With over 17 years of sobriety, he openly shares his journey to help others see that recovery is not a limitation but a strength. Dan’s story is one of resilience, authenticity, and transformation. He’s proof that when we invest in people, we all win.

On Fire for Recovery: Joshua Colwell, CRSW’s Story We share stories that make recovery visible—offering proof that recovery is possible, not just for those struggling, but also for the people who love them. Josh, a husband, father, harm reductionist, and recovery advocate, has dedicated his life to making recovery accessible. But before he was on fire for recovery, he was drowning in addiction. Growing up in Rochester, NH, Josh struggled with self-worth and found escape in the personas of powerful movie gangsters. By 15, alcohol became his equalizer, and soon after, substance use took control of his life. His world came crashing down in 2018 when federal agents knocked on his door. Facing 20 years in prison, Josh saw no future beyond addiction. Then, something changed. He walked into a 12-Step meeting—not seeking a solution, just needing to get out of the house—and heard his story reflected in another person’s words. It sparked a shift. He connected with a recovery community center, found a coach, and began setting goals. Through honesty, selflessness, and accountability, he built a new life. > Eight months into recovery, his probation officer didn’t even recognize him. > He became a peer recovery support worker—helping others navigate the same system that once held him back. > His actions spoke louder than words: instead of 20 years, the judge sentenced him to time served—just 12 hours in jail. Since October 2018, Josh has been a relentless advocate for recovery, ensuring no one feels alone, ashamed, or without resources. “Recovery is not only possible, but it’s attainable. With the right resources, anybody can do it.” Let’s amplify voices like Josh’s—because every story matters.