Scott Strode, 51, started drinking at 11 and using cocaine by 15. Addiction consumed his early 20s, leaving him paranoid and fearing an overdose. Once he got sober, fitness—climbing, boxing, triathlons—became his refuge. Determined to use his experience to help others, in 2006 he founded The Phoenix, a sober active community that has helped over half a million people overcome addiction. His forthcoming memoir, Rise. Recover. Thrive., aims to inspire even more people on their journey to recovery. In his own words, here’s how he did it.
“I don’t really believe in the idea that you have to hit rock bottom to change,” Strode, 51, tells PEOPLE. “I think you need a moment of perspective where you're clear-headed enough to see a change that seems obtainable.”
On July 24th, The Phoenix celebrated a significant milestone with the 500,000th member joining its community. This achievement highlights the impact of The Phoenix’s mission, which began 18 years ago with the goal of providing a supportive space for addiction recovery. The milestone reflects the dedication of its staff, volunteers, and supporters, and marks a pivotal moment in redefining recovery. Despite this success, the organization acknowledges the ongoing challenge of addressing substance use issues, with nearly 48 million Americans still affected. The celebration is both a recognition of past achievements and a renewed call to action, urging continued involvement to drive forward a movement that offers hope and support to all in need.
Mark your calendars: Sign-ups for our annual Moab Retreat open on Friday, March 1st at 8am PST/11am EST! We love this event, and we want YOU to be a part of it.
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Changes to Spaces in The Phoenix App
Starting January 21, we’ll be making some updates to Phoenix Spaces. First, we’re making them easier to discover by renaming some of our most popular Spaces. These changes will help new members—or those exploring new interests—find supportive communities and take the next step on their journey.
Jan 19, 2025
Update on Los Angeles Programs (1/9/25)
Jan 8, 2025
Climbing the Himalayas Helped Me Stay Sober - Scott Strode feared an overdose would end his life—until an ice climbing brochure put him on a new path.
Scott Strode, 51, started drinking at 11 and using cocaine by 15. Addiction consumed his early 20s, leaving him paranoid and fearing an overdose. Once he got sober, fitness—climbing, boxing, triathlons—became his refuge. Determined to use his experience to help others, in 2006 he founded The Phoenix, a sober active community that has helped over half a million people overcome addiction. His forthcoming memoir, Rise. Recover. Thrive., aims to inspire even more people on their journey to recovery. In his own words, here’s how he did it.
Jan 8, 2025
15 Reasons It’s Awesome to Be Sober(ish) Right Now
Finding fun stuff to do when you’re sober, and with other cool sober people, has never been easier. The post-pandemic world boasts a new landscape for sober socializing. Here are 15 examples of sober at its most fun or fun at its most sober.
Jan 6, 2025
He Fell into Addiction as a Teen, and Then Found a Novel Way to Help Thousands of Other People Recover (Exclusive)
“I don’t really believe in the idea that you have to hit rock bottom to change,” Strode, 51, tells PEOPLE. “I think you need a moment of perspective where you're clear-headed enough to see a change that seems obtainable.”
Nov 4, 2024
How to make your space more sober supportive: Music Festivals
Music connects people through shared experiences and has the power to change culture. We're committed to making music events and the music community as a whole more sober supportive and inclusive. Want to make your space more sober supportive? Check out this resource guide for music festivals!
Nov 1, 2024
How to make your space more sober supportive: Music Venues
Music connects people through shared experiences and has the power to change culture. We're committed to making music events and the music community as a whole more sober supportive and inclusive. Want to make your space more sober supportive? Check out this resource guide for music venues!
Nov 1, 2024