Meet Vanessa Phillips

Recovery Date: January 31, 2021.

Q: What is your favorite recovery activity?
A: Helping coordinate the Knox County Recovery Out Loud event each year. This event is especially meaningful because it takes place in my home community, where my own recovery journey began. Being able to help create a space that celebrates recovery, reduces stigma, and brings people together is my way of giving back. Seeing individuals and families come together, celebrate milestones, and realize they are not alone reminds me why recovery matters.

Q: Who is your strongest advocate?
A: Myself. Throughout my life, I have learned the importance of advocating for myself, believing in my abilities, and refusing to let obstacles define me. Those experiences have also inspired me to help others find their own voice and recognize that change is possible.

Q: What is your dream vacation?
A: An African safari. My husband and I love traveling, and one of my biggest dreams is to visit all seven continents. Traveling has allowed me to experience new cultures, landscapes, and perspectives, and I want to share those experiences with my children as well.

Q: If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
A: My Grandma Prpich. She played a major role in raising me and shaping who I am today. She encouraged me to do hard things, step outside my comfort zone, and believe in myself. I would love the chance to share my life experiences with her, tell her about my family, my travels, and the work I’ve been privileged to do helping others.

Q: What is your favorite movie, TV show, or book?
A: One Tree Hill. I have watched all nine seasons more times than I can count. I love the characters, relationships, and the nostalgia it brings.

Q: What’s your favorite way to spend a rainy afternoon?
A: Curled up on the couch with my three boys, watching TV and eating snacks. I appreciate those simple moments of slowing down and spending quality time together.

Q: What song is always on your playlist?
A: “Jamie All Over” by Mayday Parade. It brings back memories from different seasons of my life and always makes me want to turn up the volume and sing along.

Q: If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
A: Teleportation. I spend a lot of time driving between meetings, communities, and events, and it would mean more time with my family and the people I serve.

Q: What’s something most people don’t know about you?
A: I am not originally from Indiana. I grew up in a small rural community in Michigan and later lived in Omaha, Nebraska, while earning my degree. I also played competitive softball for 13 years, which taught me teamwork, perseverance, and resilience.

Q: What’s your go-to karaoke song?
A: “Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus.

Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list?
A: Visiting all seven continents and taking my children around the world to experience different cultures and perspectives.

Q: What’s your go-to coffee or drink order?
A: A large, iced sugar-free vanilla latte with almond milk.

Q: What always makes you smile?
A: My children. Watching them experience new things and seeing their excitement and joy reminds me to appreciate the moments that matter most.

Q: What’s your favorite color?
A: Black or blue.

Q: What is something you are currently working on or learning?
A: Becoming a better version of myself. I am learning that personal growth is a lifelong journey and that investing in myself allows me to better show up for my family, my work, and the people I serve.

Q: What’s your favorite season?
A: Fall. I love football season, bonfires with family and friends, crisp air, and the feeling of slowing down and making memories.