BrainStorm with Sony Perlman Healing Without A Price Tag | With Eric Levitz
8 snips
Oct 18, 2025 Eric Levitz, the Executive Director and founder of AZ House Jerusalem, leads a transformative, no-cost recovery program for men. He shares his inspiring journey from addiction to creating a community-focused environment that prioritizes authenticity and peer support. Key topics include the importance of connection in healing, the unique structure of AZ House, and how providing free care fosters gratitude and accountability. Eric's insights on rebuilding lives and redefining success in recovery highlight the power of genuine community in overcoming addiction.
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Single Conversation That Changed Everything
- Eric describes meeting a resident, Terry Hewitt, who sat with him and said "it's gonna be alright, kid."
- That one conversation convinced Eric to trust the program and begin recovery at AZ House.
Prioritize Early Retention
- When a newcomer arrives, prioritize retention by showing love and making them feel safe enough to stay.
- Invest in convincing and retaining people early rather than assuming they must 'want' recovery first.
Addiction As A Substitute For Missing Needs
- Drugs substitute for missing organic human needs: connection, purpose, sleep, and routine.
- Restoring basic life structures often removes the need for substances by giving people a livable, meaningful life.
