Our Team
Chris Pondoff
On March 25th, 2014, Chris entered rehab with a major in alcoholism and a minor in cocaine after nearly drinking and snorting himself to death following his father’s tragic passing in May of 2012. It was in rehab where Chris experienced God’s real-life love and grace in what he describes as the, “ultimate, profanity-laced screaming match with Jesus” that he obviously lost. He goes on to add that when you, “lose a screaming match with Jesus, or lose in anything to Jesus, you actually end up winning. And that’s what’s f***ing righteous about this whole faith thing.”
After completing his inpatient stay, Chris has dedicated his life to keeping a close relationship with Jesus and being a better per… let’s just say being less of an a**hole and a little kinder to people. In that pursuit, he has found a real calling to reach a hand out and help those who are at or near rock bottom from painful, suffocating, paralyzing grief and addiction. Chris is the first person to tell you that he’s not some “bible-belting hypocrite” but instead is a real-life sinner that has come to terms with Jesus in such a way that, for him, has been “life f***ing saving”.
Thanks to his newfound relationship with Jesus, one that still often times is profanity-laced, Chris has risen from rock bottom and has turned out to be quite the f***ing family man to a wife that is “way out-of-his league” and an amazing son in which he is “undeserving”. His life is now dedicated to showing people that there is indeed joy to be had in a life of recovery, and that for those that are residing in the dark, lonely world of grief and addiction to always remember that God’s light of hope and abundant life will always, always overcome the darkness.
Let us pray.
Jeff Allen
Jeff, a creative force based in Belleville, IL, near St. Louis, MO, is a musician, videographer, and mental health advocate. After years of searching for answers to the emotional highs and lows that dominated his life, he was diagnosed with cyclothymia—a mood disorder characterized by less severe but still challenging emotional fluctuations. Armed with this understanding, Jeff found an approach that worked, bringing clarity and healing to his life. Through his creativity and insights, Jeff offers listeners a thoughtful perspective on overcoming mental health challenges.
Jakob Miller
Jakob is the Executive Director at Illinois Recovery Center, and a passionate advocate for substance abuse recovery. His personal journey in long-term recovery drives his belief that no one is beyond help. With experience as a technician and substance abuse counselor, Jakob co-founded Illinois Recovery Center to provide compassionate care and comprehensive resources. He is committed to guiding others toward lasting recovery and empowering them to build a brighter future.