Voir Dire (to speak the truth): A Conversation with Retired Federal Judge Mary Beth O’Connor

Voir Dire (to speak the truth): A Conversation with Retired Federal Judge Mary Beth O’Connor

Mary Beth O'Connor, a retired federal judge, shares her inspiring journey from addiction to recovery in this episode of Scope of Practice. With a history of substance abuse starting at age 12, Mary Beth battled various addictions until she found methamphetamine at 16. Her struggle continued until she turned 32, when she decided to take control of her life and build a secular recovery plan that worked for her.

By integrating multiple strategies, Mary Beth has been sober since 1994 and now advocates for various paths to recovery. As a board member for Life Ring Secular Recovery and SheRecovers Foundation, she speaks about the importance of choice in recovery programs and the necessity of addressing underlying traumas. Her memoir, From Junkie to Judge, One Woman's Triumph Over Trauma and Addiction, offers a detailed account of her journey and is available at major bookstores.

Mary Beth also discusses the privilege she experienced as a white woman during her addiction and how it impacted her chances of recovery. She emphasises the need for professionals to understand and offer multiple recovery options to their clients. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in addiction recovery, trauma healing, and the power of personal choice in overcoming life's challenges.