Today we’d like to introduce you to Marc Shannon
Hi Marc, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a musician, author, former corporate executive, certified peer recovery supporter, supervisor (OhioMHAS CPRS), and a County of Summit ADM board member. I work as a weekly volunteer at regional treatment and detox wards and have an Advisory Board position for Judge Joy Malek Oldfield’s Turning Point Program for Summit County. My Podcast “Recovery Talks” is available wherever you find your online programming. My monthly column, “Feel Better-ER,” addresses tips and topics of wellness and is circulated in newspapers in North East Ohio.
As a veteran studio and touring guitarist and multi-instrumentalist, my over 40-year career has taken me from my hometown of Akron, Ohio, to Los Angeles, Nashville, New York, and back again. I have released four albums and many singles and have enjoyed 25 years as a member of Michael Stanley and the Resonators. Beyond music, I used the time off the stage during the pandemic to turn my recovery journey into a journal of my new life. In November 2022, I released Sober Chronicles™: My Journey of Discovery on the Road to Recovery. The book explores my path to long-term recovery from Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Mental Health Issues (MHI), showcasing the practices, beliefs, and words of strength that have shaped my sobriety and the unique experience of walking this road during a time of uncertainty and grief. In 2024, I released Sober Chronicles™ Revised Edition, which expounds on the original book to include additional commentary, photographs, and questions to prompt discussions.
I am involved in the Northeast Ohio community to serve as living evidence that recovery is possible. Through my “The Sounds of Recovery” presentations, I deliver a message of hope to those in recovery and what it is like to be in recovery to Health Professionals and family members. I offer my experiences to help others along the path using music, humor, readings from my book, and real-life daily living experiences.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s no secret that I am a person in long-term recovery from Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and am a supporter of Active Mental Health Care. So many artists like myself have had trauma and experiences in their past that have been part of the fabric of their work. What hurt me as a kid has been inspiration in the work.
I just thought I was not a good person for a long time. With treatment and good counseling, I found that I was going to be ok. I was not a bad guy; I just needed help with a medical and mental health disorder. Ten sober years later, I have the life I have always wanted. I am married to a great person, and that could not have happened until I learned to love myself.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My musical career began after winning a National Scholastic Writing competition and receiving my first record deal. I was then accepted into what was then called The Guitar Institute (GIT) in L.A. There were only 120 students accepted nationally, and to this day, I swear I was number 119. While out there, I performed with numerous national and local bands and did much studio session work. Music is my passion.
I also am an advocate for substance use and mental health recovery. I have created a business that combines my musical talent with my lived experience in recovery. I present at treatment centers, hospitals, and recovery events. The presentation is called The Sounds of Recovery. I have found that bringing music and a message breaks through to those suffering from disorders.
I wrote my book Sober Chronicles in 2022 and gave it a “facelift ” in 2024. The updated version includes new photographs, additional commentary, and questions to prompt discussion of the book and life.
What sets me apart is I am a singer-songwriter, accomplished musician, author, and advocate for recovery. I have found a way to incorporate all of these parts of my life into a business that is meaningful to me and others.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My friend and mentor, Michael Stanley, believed in me enough to bring me into his musical family. I performed with him for 25 years and played on 23 of his records. He produced my very first album, Any Ordinary Man back in 2007. It was the first and only record he produced for another artist.
The people in the recovery community, who I cannot name, also deserve recognition. They told me straight out that they would love me until I could learn to love myself. I would not be here today without their support, and they keep me standing.
Pricing:
- Please reach for quote for The Sounds of Recovery
- Please reach out for quote for musical performances
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.marcleeshannon.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcleeshannon/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marcleeshannon
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-lee-shannon-4a82536/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@marcleeshannonmusic/videos https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyjCylVbEuv9zYw0vIyE4Ww
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/search/sounds?q=marc%20lee%20shannon
- Other: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/marc-lee-shannon/214444465
