Rebuilding My Life: Tori Randall’s Story of Overcoming Addiction, Loss, and Finding Purpose
We are deeply grateful to Tori Randall for sharing her journey with Level Up IOP, which is an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit.
At Level Up IOP, we witness incredible transformations—stories of resilience, redemption, and the power of second chances.
Her story is one of hardship, struggle, and, ultimately, triumph—a reminder that no matter how dark the road may seem, there is always a way forward.
Tori’s dedication to giving back and guiding others toward recovery is truly remarkable.
Tori Randall starts out with, “For the past nine years, I have been a part of The Other Side Academy, first as a student and now as a staff member helping to run the organization.
My journey has been one of immense transformation, filled with hardship, loss, and, ultimately, redemption.
Our latest project, a video designed to reach women struggling with addiction and hopelessness, was created with a deep understanding of their pain.”
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A Message of Hope for Women in Recovery
She continues, “Too often, women put everything and everyone before themselves, neglecting their own needs.
This video challenges them to step out of the darkness and reclaim their integrity, self-worth, and security.
It’s a powerful reminder that we are not defined by our past but by our ability to rise above it.
Watching it, especially the parts about motherhood, stirs deep emotions in me because I relate to it so personally.
But before I found myself at The Other Side Academy, my life was far from the stability and purpose I now cherish.”
Tori Randall’s message is clear—every woman deserves to step out of the darkness to reclaim her integrity, self-worth, and security.
Watching the video, especially the parts that touch on motherhood, brought up deep emotions for Tori.
Her vulnerability in sharing her struggles makes her message even more impactful, offering hope to those who feel lost and alone.
Overcoming a Difficult Childhood
Tori’s early years were marked by instability and hardship.
Growing up in the Salem-Spanish Fork area of Utah County, she was born to parents who struggled with addiction.
Her father made the difficult but courageous decision to get sober and raise her.
At the same time, her mother continued down a different path.
Despite her father’s best efforts, Tori felt different from her peers.
She resented the challenges they faced—living on state assistance, lacking the presence of both parents at school events, and feeling like an outsider.
In hindsight, she now recognizes her father’s love and sacrifice, always providing and always showing up, even when she didn’t fully appreciate it.
Descent Into Addiction
Like so many who struggle with substance use, Tori’s descent into addiction began at an early age.
By 12, she was experimenting with alcohol, and by 16, she had fallen into the grip of heroin.
Seeking acceptance, she was willing to do anything to fit in, unaware of how deeply it would impact her future.
Her addiction led to crime—petty thefts to sustain her habit, living on the streets, and pushing away those who cared about her.
At 19, she was homeless in Salt Lake City, choosing drugs over stability, unable to see a way out.
Losing Everything–and Finding a New Path
Like many who reach rock bottom, Tori hoped that becoming a mother would change everything.
She wanted to be the parent she never had, but addiction robbed her of that opportunity.
Eventually, she lost custody of her children, and they were adopted by their father’s sister.
The pain of losing them was overwhelming, but even then, she struggled to find the strength to break free from addiction.
Then 2016, a turning point came—The Other Side Academy.
The program had only been open for six months when Tori arrived.
There, she met Lola, a woman who saw past her defenses and recognized the person she could become.
With unwavering honesty, Lola challenged her to take accountability for her actions and start the hard work of healing.
Sitting on “the bench” for the first time, Tori began her transformation journey.
For the first time in her life, she indeed faced herself—the pain she had caused, the relationships she had lost, and the future she still had a chance to reclaim.
Second Chance at Life & Leading Others
Tori stepped into a leadership role at The Other Side Academy three years later.
Today, she helps run the program and oversees the women’s division, ensuring that graduates remain connected and continue their healing journey.
Her story is not just one of personal redemption but a welcomed message of hope for others walking the same path.
Tori is also working to rebuild her relationship with her children.
While the road to reconciliation takes time, she is committed to proving through her actions that she is a different person than she was before.
Recovery is not just about sobriety—it’s about integrity, trust, and the daily work of becoming the best version of oneself.
A Message from Level Up IOP
Tori’s story is a powerful reminder that change is possible for anyone willing to do the work.
At Level Up IOP, we are honored to know her, to learn from her, and to share her journey with those who need inspiration the most.
Her resilience, honesty, and dedication to helping others testify to the power of transformation.
To those who are struggling and wondering if a better life is possible—Tori’s journey is proof that it is.
No matter where you are today, hope is not lost.
Change is within reach.
We’re here to join you in your recovery journey if you’re ready to take the first step?
Thank you, Tori, for your courage, honesty, and commitment to making a difference.
Your story is changing lives.
