Amanda’s Journey: The Story of Founder Amanda Marino
Next Level Recovery Associates Founder Amanda Marino's story is one of transformation—a journey from the glamor of the entertainment world to the sobering reality of addiction, and ultimately, to a life of dedicated service.
At 26, Amanda Marino found herself in the throes of recovery, a stark contrast to her earlier life as a child runway model, a dancer in hip-hop music videos, and a performer with the likes of Britney Spears, Ricky Martin, and Kid Rock. Her youth was a whirlwind of partying with celebrities and appearing in commercials - a dream for many, but a path that led Amanda into darkness.
The turning point came when the industry that had afforded her opportunities began to sexualize her. Soon, the entertainment work she had enjoyed so much suddenly felt empty. Marino's presence at castings and PR events became marked by substance abuse, derailing her career and throwing off her plans to establish her own modeling agency.
The birth of her son brought a new perspective. When he was just 18 months old, Marino embarked on the journey to sobriety. It took a year for her to think clearly again, a period during which she confronted unexpected challenges: severe acne and a significant weight gain. These physical changes were a startling wake-up call. Soon, the death of her father, a fitness enthusiast, propelled her into the world of fitness competitions which unearthed issues of body dysmorphia, a common struggle in recovery.
Marino's dream was to return to the entertainment industry—not as a performer, but as a figure of substance and inspiration. She envisioned appearing on shows like "Intervention" on A&E as a recovery expert, a beacon of hope and strength for other young women. But she knew she had to put in the work. She worked diligently to continue her sobriety journey, get healthy, and develop better coping skills. She found that being of service to other women was the key that unlocked new levels of recovery.
Soon, things started to change and her dream became a reality. Marino was recently featured on "Intervention" and "Digital Addiction" as a mature, experienced figure who could empathize with the women who were suffering. The experience was unbelievably rewarding. Her ability to connect with participants by drawing from her own experiences marked a significant shift from her earlier career. This time, she was valued for her ability to uplift and help others.
Despite her remarkable turnaround, Marino acknowledges that she still faces tough moments. However, her approach to dealing with life's challenges has dramatically changed. Now, she finds solace in walks, retreats, and confronting her emotions head-on. Lifting others through her experiences brings her the ultimate joy and fulfillment. Through Next Level Recovery Associates, she helps people find their way through the darkness of addiction to a life beyond their wildest dreams.
Amanda's journey exemplifies the transformative power of recovery. It's a reminder that when one focuses on healing from within, external successes often follow. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but a testament to the profound impact of giving back.