Addiction Prevention Coalition
Addiction Prevention Coalition
Serving Up Support: A Conversation with Katelyn Whitmore
Serving Up Support: A Conversation with Katelyn Whitmore
Serving Up Support: A Conversation with Katelyn Whitmore
Thursday 24th July 2025
Katelyn Whitmore shares her journey from education to hospitality, overcoming substance use disorder with support from family and community.
47 minutes
hopeful
informative
challenging
inspiring
supportive
About this podcast
Author:
Addiction Prevention Coalition
Overview:
Categories:
Family Recovery from Addiction
Recovery Reimagined
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Creative Recovery Journeys
Links:
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Episodes:
64 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Finding Purpose in Hospitality: Katelyn's Journey
Episode Overview
- Katelyn Whitmore transitioned from education to hospitality.
- She faced challenges with substance use disorder.
- Strong support systems helped her recover.
- Community connections are vital for recovery.
- Bottega offers a recovery-friendly workplace.
Have you heard the saying, the opposite of addiction is connection?
In this episode of The Shield, Nichole engages in a heartfelt conversation with Katelyn Whitmore, Front of House Manager at Birmingham’s renowned Bottega. Katelyn shares her compelling journey from pursuing a career in education to finding her true passion in the hospitality industry. Despite the allure of a fast-paced environment where food and service create unique experiences, Katelyn candidly discusses the darker side of her journey, including her struggle with substance use disorder.
Katelyn recounts a pivotal moment when her husband intervened, leading her to confront the reality of her situation. His decision to reach out to her family marked the beginning of her path to recovery. She emphasizes the importance of connection in overcoming addiction, echoing the adage that 'the opposite of addiction is connection.' Through her involvement with the Addiction Prevention Coalition, Katelyn highlights the power of face-to-face conversations in fostering a supportive community.
Throughout the discussion, Katelyn reflects on the hospitality industry's unique challenges, likening it to a dumping ground for emotional stress. She underscores the significance of creating recovery-friendly workplaces, where psychological safety is prioritized. Her experience at Bottega, supported by influential figures like Frank and Part of Stitt, exemplifies a work environment that champions recovery and connection. Katelyn also introduces Preshift BHAM, a community initiative aimed at connecting individuals with shared experiences in the restaurant industry.
Held every Monday at Saturn, Preshift BHAM offers a welcoming space for individuals to gather, share, and support one another. Ultimately, Katelyn's story is one of resilience and transformation, demonstrating how the intersection of community, support, and personal determination can lead to recovery and fulfillment in one's career. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, reinforcing the importance of supportive networks in overcoming life's challenges.