Max Popma is a Junior Staff member with the FullCircle Program in Chandler, Arizona, where he joined the team in late 2025. Drawing from his own recovery journey, Max brings lived experience, genuine empathy, and a deep commitment to helping teens and young adults build sober, fulfilling lives.
Max got sober in late 2022 at the age of 16 through a 12-step treatment program. In 2023, he entered the FullCircle Program as a participant in Boulder, Colorado—a pivotal experience that allowed him to reclaim and truly experience his teenage years by rediscovering fun, authentic friendships, adventure, and purpose without substances. This transformative time ignited his passion for guiding others toward the same hope, connection, and joy in recovery.
Before joining FullCircle, Max served as a peer mentor at a youth treatment center, providing one-on-one mentoring, and worked in administrative roles within IOP and PHP programs supporting both teens and adults. Today, as part of the Chandler team, he helps facilitate peer-led 12-step meetings, organizes engaging sober social activities, and offers individualized encouragement to young people and their families—always emphasizing that sobriety can be exciting, meaningful, and full of life.
Known for his relatable energy, strong dedication to the 12 steps, and ability to make recovery feel approachable and fun, Max is passionate about showing others that a sober life isn’t just possible—it’s better. He lives in the Phoenix area and enjoys the outdoors, spending time with friends, and going on new adventures.
