Meet Karie McMullen | Associate Executive Director – FREE Recovery Community

We had the good fortune of connecting with Karie McMullen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karie, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
When it comes to habits that have contributed to my success, three fundamental beliefs stand out:
Firstly, embracing an ‘Easy and Obvious’ mentality. Success is about surrendering and trusting my intuition. I don’t mean to imply that hard work isn’t required, but I believe that what’s meant for me will come without force and self-will getting in the way. I spent many years fighting against life, but once I’ve learned to lean in and accept that obstacles are often blessings in disguise, the journey has been more enjoyable. If it’s not ‘Easy and Obvious,’ I know it’s not meant for me.
Secondly, stepping out of my comfort zone has been crucial. Growth often happens when we challenge ourselves and push beyond what feels safe or familiar. By taking risks and exploring new opportunities, I’ve learned and evolved in ways I never imagined. I’m grateful to be surrounded by supportive leaders who often see and trust my gifts long before I do.
Lastly, being willing to start, even when the path ahead is unclear. Sometimes, the hardest part is getting started, but it’s important not to let uncertainty hold you back. By taking that first step, you open yourself up to new possibilities and opportunities that may lead to unexpected success. You will never achieve success if you don’t take that first step, so take it. Don’t just talk about it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The road hasn’t always been easy. Like any journey, there have been challenges along the way. I had to first learn to love and accept myself before I could turn that love outward and help others. Fortunately, there were others before me who could love me before I could learn to love myself. I could not heal in isolation. Community was the only solution. Today, I am grateful to welcome people into FREE.
FREE is the largest recovery community in Colorado. We are passionate about supporting individuals where they’re at in their recovery process. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to community; we don’t see ourselves in competition with anyone because we believe it takes us all to succeed.
My proudest moments are witnessing the transformation in individuals who once felt trapped by their past, only to emerge with newfound strength and resilience. Every success story reaffirms the power of community and the possibility of new life.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of compassion and acceptance. Although every individual’s journey is unique, we all have a common bond. If we look for our similarities instead of our differences, we can meet each other where we’re at without judgment and shame. Together, we can create the belonging and community we all crave.
What I want the world to know is that recovery is possible. It’s possible to rewrite your story, leaving behind shame and discovering purpose and connection. And while FREE may have started in Denver, our vision extends far beyond; we want to see communities everywhere embrace the principles of No Shame, Authenticity, Recovery, and New Life. If you’re looking to start your own FREE community, we’re here to help you get started. Together, we can “Break the Silence of Addiction!”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you’re looking for some of Denver’s best spots, my obvious answer must be FREE Recovery Community, FREE Café, and Wagon Coffee Roasters, all located at 2122 S. Lafayette Street. For a community-focused experience, don’t miss FREE Cafe, a volunteer-led coffee shop with a strong emphasis on recovery. The Café serves Wagon Coffee, some of the freshest coffee in town since it’s roasted on-site. Its sustainable practices support women in recovery. Join us at our Saturday services at either 5pm or 7pm and experience our welcoming atmosphere and a chance to connect with others in the recovery community. I may be biased, but it truly is my favorite place in Denver.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without Ryan and Tami Canaday. Being a stay-at-home mom for the last 15 years, I never imagined I’d find myself embarking on a second career. Yet, what Tami and Ryan have created at FREE was too extraordinary to ignore. From starting FREE in their backyard back in 2018 to what they’ve become today in just six short years, their journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Their vision, their passion, it all compelled me to get involved. It’s an absolute privilege to work alongside them both, fueled by their unwavering dedication and boundless inspiration. Their incredible trust in me is an honor. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to contribute to expanding FREE into other communities, hand in hand with these remarkable individuals!

Website: https://www.freerecoverycommunity.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freerecoverycommunity/?igsh=dDVmYjNmbGN4ODNq

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karie-mcmullen-32087213a/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreeRecoveryCommunity?mibextid=JRoKGi

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@freerecoverycommunity

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