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Mike has witnessed the devastating impact of addiction in his life, work, and community. He began his career as a Navy helicopter pilot and went on to serve as a Corrections Officer, DC Police Officer, and FBI Agent. In 2010, while teaching at the FBI Academy, he developed a course to help police executives better understand alcoholism, prescription drug abuse, PTSD, suicide, and domestic violence. After retiring from the FBI in 2019, he earned a Master’s in Addiction Counseling and now works full-time as a Behavioral Health Therapist at a major nonprofit hospital. Together with his wife, Lillie, he draws on personal and professional experience to have honest and compassionate conversations about addiction, recovery, and mental health, focusing on breaking stigma, offering support, and sharing resources that remind people they are not alone and that recovery is possible. To connect with Mike and Lillie, subscribe to their weekly newsletter, or simply learn more about them, visit vanmeterwellnessolutions.com.
Episodes

3 hours ago
Episode 180 - Name It to Tame It
3 hours ago
3 hours ago
In this episode Mike Van Meter discusses the topic "Name It to Tame It". The discussion centers around emotional labeling-a neuroscience-backed tool to calm overwhelming feelings. Drawing from his experience, Mike shares stories, strategies, steps for sobriety and resilience. This episode is ideal for addicts, their families, and everyone who is seeking clarity.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Make sure you sign up for our weekly newsletter on the website
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

7 days ago
7 days ago
In this episode, we sit down with Laura Lindsey from Heroes on the Water to explore how time on the water is helping veterans, first responders, and their families heal from stress and trauma through kayak fishing and the outdoors. Laura shares how Heroes on the Water builds community, lowers barriers to getting help, and creates a calm, judgment-free space where participants can reconnect with themselves and each other. Mike and Laura talk about the impact they see in real lives, the power of peer support, and how listeners can get involved, volunteer, or refer someone who could benefit from these free programs.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Make sure you sign up for our weekly newsletter on the website
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Saturday Nov 22, 2025
Episode 178 - Recovery is Hard but not Impossible
Saturday Nov 22, 2025
Saturday Nov 22, 2025
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Make sure you sign up for our weekly newsletter on the website
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Wednesday Nov 05, 2025
Episode 177 - Journey of Recovery-From Rock Bottom to Redemption with Taylor Cavanaugh
Wednesday Nov 05, 2025
Wednesday Nov 05, 2025
From Navy SEAL to jail to the French Foreign Legion and to recovery-Taylor Cavanaugh's story is one of ultimate resilience. Join Mike Van Meter and Taylor as they share their truths on this episode of Recovery is Possible.
YouTube: TCAV TV
Instagram: tcavofficial
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Make sure you sign up for our weekly newsletter on the website
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Episode 176 - Tony Crescenzo-Intelligent Waves and Recovery
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
In this compelling episode, host Mike Van Meter sits down with Tony Crescenzo, President and CEO of Intelligent Waves and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, to explore the powerful intersection of recovery, resilience, and leadership. Tony shares his personal journey navigating the complex emotional landscape many veterans face after service, including his own experiences with PTSD and the struggle to reclaim purpose and identity in civilian life.
As a leader who champions innovation in veteran care, Tony discusses the significant mental health challenges confronting veterans and first responders, emphasizing the urgent need for transformative, mission-driven recovery solutions. Through his work at Intelligent Waves and Peak Neuro, an AI-powered neuroscience company dedicated to human performance and recovery, Tomy sheds light on cutting-edge advancement that support brain health, cognitive performance, and sustained recovery.
Tony.Crescenzo@intelligentwaves.com
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Make sure you sign up for our weekly newsletter on the website
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Oct 20, 2025
Episode 175 - Put The Shovel Down-Amber Hollingsworth
Monday Oct 20, 2025
Monday Oct 20, 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Amber Hollingsworth, the creator and host of the YouTube channel Put the Shovel Down. As an Addiction Recovery Specialist, Amber shares valuable insights on focusing on what's going right in recovery and the importance of building healthy relationships along the way. She highlights how supporting others in making the decision to pursue recovery-and guiding them through that challenging journey-can make all the difference.
YouTube: Put the Shovel Down
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Make sure you sign up for our weekly newsletter on the website
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Oct 12, 2025
Episode 174 - The Deception of Denial
Sunday Oct 12, 2025
Sunday Oct 12, 2025
In this episode, we explore how the disease of addiction can convince you that you don't have it. We take a closer look at the defense mechanisms and cognitive distortions that fuel denial-such as rationalization, minimization, self-deception, blame-shifting, and justification. We also share practical strategies to help you break through denial and move toward lasting recovery and long-term sobriety.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Make sure you sign up for our weekly newsletter on the website
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Oct 06, 2025
Episode 173 - Saying No: Real Talk on Social Drinking Pressures
Monday Oct 06, 2025
Monday Oct 06, 2025
Peer pressure is not just for teens; adults in early and even long-term recovery can experience strong pressures in social or work settings. There is no shame in protecting sobriety, and in this episode, we discuss how you can handle the peer pressure that often arises in social situations.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Sep 29, 2025
Monday Sep 29, 2025
Where does addiction really come from, and how can we get ahead of it? In this episode, I interview James Piacentino, Co-Founder and CEO of Thrive Genetics to explore how genetics may hold the key to predicting addiction risk. We dive into the groundbreaking role of genetic insights in guiding treatment; more importantly, supporting lasting recovery. James explains how genetic testing can help identify those at higher risk, especially before surgery or other high-stress, high-risk situations where addiction often begins.
contact@thrivegenetics.ai
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Tuesday Sep 23, 2025
Episode 171 - The Living Amends
Tuesday Sep 23, 2025
Tuesday Sep 23, 2025
A living amends is more than apologizing; it's about radically changing one's behavior and lifestyle to support ongoing sobriety and healing relationships. In this episode, we dispel myths about the living amends, encourage practical change, and provide hope for long-term growth.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Thursday Sep 11, 2025
Episode 170 - There Is No Secret to Recovery
Thursday Sep 11, 2025
Thursday Sep 11, 2025
In this episode we discuss how people in long-term recovery have been able to achieve this incredible goal. We discuss the realities of early recovery from addiction and how families can support their loved ones during this phase. In recovery there is no simple secret or quick fix, and we focus on practical insights and encouragement for both individuals in recovery and their families.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
Episode 169 - Stigma and Misconceptions about Medically Assisted Treatment
Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
In this episode Lillie and I discuss the stigma surrounding Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT). MAT integrates FDA approved medication and counseling to support people in recovery from addiction, primarily opioid or alcohol use disorders. Medications help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings, which improves retention in treatment and overall recovery outcomes. In this episode, we discuss why this can be controversial in recovery communities and how you can improve your chances of long-term recovery.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Aug 24, 2025
Sunday Aug 24, 2025
In this episode, Mike and Lillie dive into Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change by Joseph Grenny and his colleagues. The book explores the interconnected roles of motivation and ability, and we reflect on how these ideas can be applied to the recovery journey. By embracing these principles, individuals can greatly increase their chances of building and sustaining long-term sobriety.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Aug 17, 2025
Episode 167 - Recovery Meetings and Addressing Family Needs
Sunday Aug 17, 2025
Sunday Aug 17, 2025
In this episode we discuss the importance of recovery meetings, address family needs as well as how to build boundaries together. Early recovery is tough, but it is even harder if the person in recovery and the family members are not working together. We discuss strategies to make early recovery easier for everyone involved.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Tuesday Aug 12, 2025
Episode 166 - Another Year of Sobriety!
Tuesday Aug 12, 2025
Tuesday Aug 12, 2025
On this Sober Anniversary Mike and Lillie discuss what the journey has been like, and what it took to get here. Also, they discuss how life has changed, and how the recovery journey ebbs and flows.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Aug 04, 2025
Episode 165 - Mike and Lillie Discuss Early Recovery
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Monday Aug 04, 2025
In this episode, we announce the changing of the name of this podcast. Mike and Lillie discuss early recovery and how families can support their loved one.
Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Jun 09, 2025
Episode 164 - Tom Anderson "Begin to Live Again"
Monday Jun 09, 2025
Monday Jun 09, 2025
In this episode retired Fire Fighter Tom Anderson discusses the dangers of self-diagnosis and not being honest with yourself. After suffering deep depression, Tom learned he was not alone in his suffering and that other people share our story. Join us as Tom discusses his tale of recovery and how he learned to live again.
Trauma Tuesday Meetings
e-mail: firehat2@yahoo.com
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday May 05, 2025
Monday May 05, 2025
Mark Pfetzer from Guardian Initiatives was previously on this show and discussed plans to cross the Atlantic Ocean in order to raise awareness about suicide. Mark and his team completed the trip and shares what this experience was like.
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Friday Apr 18, 2025
Episode 162 - Listening to Others
Friday Apr 18, 2025
Friday Apr 18, 2025
In order to attain long-term sobriety a couple of things must happen. First, you must WANT recovery more than ANYTHING ELSE. The second thing is you must listen to others that have achieved long-term sobriety. Sounds simple...it really is, but we make it difficult.
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Feb 24, 2025
Episode 161 - Follow The Plan
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
When we come into recovery, we may think we are doing everything right. However, upon closer inspection, we may not be doing all we think we are. I this episode I discuss following the plan and tracking what you are actually doing.
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Episode 160 - Realizing Recovery is Possible
Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Sunday Jan 12, 2025
After taking a break for about half a year the podcast is back. In this episode I discuss why I took some time off and how recovery was an integral part of me being able to pursue the journey I was on this year. Recovery certainly is possible!
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Jun 30, 2024
Sunday Jun 30, 2024
We spend a lot of time discussing what it takes to get into recovery, however, today's guest discusses what employers can do to assist the employees returning to work after treatment. This is a discussion few people have in the recovery world, and I know you will gain insight into the "other side" of recovery and learn tools you can use to help those who are beginning the recovery process.
Eric Kreitz
Leadership Coach
Renovium Leadership
919-802-2681
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Friday Jun 21, 2024
Episode 158 - Rob Carson - Mind, Body, and Spirit
Friday Jun 21, 2024
Friday Jun 21, 2024
Today I interviewed nationally syndicated radio host Rob Carson. Rob came to recovery seemingly "overnight", but as he explains there was a long road traveled before the "miracle" occurred. Rob's story demonstrates that each of us has a different path, but we all come to the same conclusion. We eventually have to get well or die, and Rob explains that we need to work on our mind, body, and spirit. Life gets better, in fact, it gets a lot better when we stop drinking or using. This is a fascinating discussion, and you will undoubtably get a lot out of it.
The Rob Carson Show on wjfnradio.com
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday May 19, 2024
Episode 157 - Be the Solution, Not the Problem
Sunday May 19, 2024
Sunday May 19, 2024
We can stay sober in the midst of tragedy; and in this episode, I discuss how it is important that we help those that are also suffering the tragedy we are experiencing. Using only makes the problem worse, and then you become part of the problem. We want to be part of the solution, and through remaining focused on a few basic principles and service, we can.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Apr 29, 2024
Episode 156 - We Are Responsible for Our Recovery
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Monday Apr 29, 2024
No one else is responsible for your recovery, and no one else is the cause for your using. We alone are responsible for our recovery, and in this episode, I discuss this concept and how we can take responsibility for our use and what we need to do to begin the process of getting well. We can and do recover...but it is up to us.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Apr 15, 2024
Episode 155 - Not Relapsing After a Tragedy
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Monday Apr 15, 2024
My younger brother passed away a couple of weeks ago. When you look at the list of reasons why people relapse, this would be near the top. I am grateful that this did not happen to me, and I wanted to take this opportunity to discuss what the process of getting through this kind of event is like. Relapse does not have to happen, but we need to make our recovery the priority.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Episode 154 - What It Takes To Be Sober
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
In this episode we discuss what it takes to be sober. People in long-term sobriety tend to do similar things, and people who continue to relapse also tend to do similar things. I discuss where our focus needs to be and how you can change your mind set for success.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Feb 12, 2024
Episode 153 - The "I Get To List in Life" with John Monaghan
Monday Feb 12, 2024
Monday Feb 12, 2024
John Monaghan is a retired Chief of Police who now works in mental health, resilience, and Post Traumatic Growth. In this episode we discuss how to help people turn their struggle into strength, especially when it comes to addiction. John brings home the point, "Don't be afraid to ask for help, it is the most courageous thing you can do".
You can also reach out to John on Facebook and Instagram at JohnMonaghanIII as well as his website:
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Episode 152 - Hilary Phelps on Coaching and Wellness
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Hilary Phelps discusses the benefits of coaching in regard to wellness and recovery. Hilary has an enormous amount of experience with recovery and discusses the unique challenges, expectations, and responsibilities they face on a daily basis. Hilary also discusses her new coaching platform she launched this year.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Jan 08, 2024
Episode 151 - Fantasizing About What Our Future Can Be
Monday Jan 08, 2024
Monday Jan 08, 2024
Everyone that is attempting to get into recovery from drugs or alcohol has a vision of what they want their future to be. This does not have to be just a fantasy; it can be a reality. In this episode I discuss how we can make this vision a reality.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Dec 31, 2023
Episode 150 - Looking at What Recovery Does for Us
Sunday Dec 31, 2023
Sunday Dec 31, 2023
Many people will tell you what drinking and drugging does for them, but rarely do they discuss what it does to them. In this episode, I challenge the notion that drinking and drugging helps you in any way. Instead, I discuss what sobriety does for you and challenge you to be willing to recommit yourself in this new year to a life that is happy, joyous, and free.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Dec 04, 2023
Episode 149 - Getting Through the Holidays Sober
Monday Dec 04, 2023
Monday Dec 04, 2023
The Holiday Season is difficult for many people, but especially for those in recovery. How do you get through the season without a relapse? In this episode I discuss ways tools you can use to get through the holidays with your recovery intact.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Tuesday Nov 21, 2023
Episode 148 - We Can Do Hard Things in Recovery
Tuesday Nov 21, 2023
Tuesday Nov 21, 2023
Being in recovery is certainly a bonus when we set out to do really hard things in life. In fact, we find that those around us who are not in recovery struggle more than we do. We have a program, they don't! In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss how a program of recovery keeps us centered when the going gets really tough.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Friday Oct 27, 2023
Episode 147 - Recovery is Work
Friday Oct 27, 2023
Friday Oct 27, 2023
Recovery is work, and those that get into long-term recovery do the work. In this episode I discuss how we can change our view of recovery and how to focus on what is important. Recovery is about changing your thinking and surrounding yourself with those that are share the same journey and struggles. Remember, keep the main thing the main thing!
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Saturday Sep 30, 2023
Episode 146 - Tapping into Your Energy in Recovery
Saturday Sep 30, 2023
Saturday Sep 30, 2023
People, Places, Things, and Situations can sap our energy and put us on the path to a relapse if we are not careful. We must remain balanced in our energy levels, but life throws us "curve balls" and this is sometimes easier said than done. In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss tools you can use to manage your energy and help prevent a host of problems.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Sep 24, 2023
Episode 145 - The Power of Becoming a Whole Person
Sunday Sep 24, 2023
Sunday Sep 24, 2023
One of the most important parts of recovery is returning yourself to wholeness. In this episode, Aparna Sain and I discuss "The Power of Becoming a Whole Person" and the tools we need to achieve this goal.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Sep 04, 2023
Episode 144 - Making a Decision for Recovery
Monday Sep 04, 2023
Monday Sep 04, 2023
How do we decide to do something we know we need to do? How do we decide to get sober? Sobriety is not about knowledge, it is about action, and until we make that commitment we are going to struggle. In this episode Aparna Sain and I explore this topic and discuss the difference between making a decision and making a commitment. These concepts may seem simple, but they are the keys that unlock the mysteries of recovery.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Aug 27, 2023
Episode 143 - The Importance of Relationships
Sunday Aug 27, 2023
Sunday Aug 27, 2023
Addiction is isolation, and recovery is community. In this episode, Aparna Sain, host of the Mindful Nation radio show on WERA 96.7 and I discuss why relationships are vital for both a spiritual journey and recovery. This is a message we all need to hear whether we need to be in recovery or would like to just be our best selves.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Aug 20, 2023
Episode 142 - Focusing on Mental Health
Sunday Aug 20, 2023
Sunday Aug 20, 2023
Our government needs to do more to help with Mental Health and Addiction issues. In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss what can and should be done to help the public with this serious issue. Addiction is on the rise and there does not seem to be any let up in sight. We are going to have to deal with this situation, or eventually this situation is going to deal with us.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Jul 30, 2023
Episode 141 - The Spiritual Awakening in Recovery
Sunday Jul 30, 2023
Sunday Jul 30, 2023
Developing your spiritual life in recovery is essential, but how do we do that? What does that mean? In this episode, Aparna Sain and I discuss the importance of developing a spiritual foundation in your life and how this can be integrated into recovery. Aparna is the host of Mindful Nation which can be heard weekly on WERA 96.7 in Arlington, Virginia.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Jul 10, 2023
Episode 140 - Mindfulness with Aparna Sain
Monday Jul 10, 2023
Monday Jul 10, 2023
I recorded this episode live at the WERA 96.7 studio in Arlington, Virginia. Aparna Said joins me as we discuss mindfulness and meditation and how it can be used as a tool in recovery. Aparna discusses how she came into the practice of mindfulness and how it has helped her in her life journey. You will be inspired by this episode and learn concepts that will help you in your own journey towards recovery.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Thursday Jun 15, 2023
Episode 139 - The Joys and Happiness in Life
Thursday Jun 15, 2023
Thursday Jun 15, 2023
In this episode I am being interviewed by Lori L. who asks me about The Joy and Happiness in Life. This was a project she was doing for school, and I thought the information was relevant for those that are suffering from addiction, or for those that are looking for happiness in their life.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Saturday Jun 10, 2023
Episode 138 - Sharpening Your Ax
Saturday Jun 10, 2023
Saturday Jun 10, 2023
It is believed that Abraham Lincoln once said, "If I had an hour to chop down a tree, then I would spend the first 45 minutes sharpening my ax." Recovery is the same way; we spend a lot of time getting ready for the day when our sobriety is tested. It is the preparation leading into that day that is going to count. We need to "sharpen our ax" and today's discussion reminds us of the importance of preparing ourselves.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Wednesday May 31, 2023
Episode 137 - People, Places, Things, and Situations
Wednesday May 31, 2023
Wednesday May 31, 2023
Early sobriety can be negatively affected by people, places, things, and situations. A listener asked what was meant by this because they hear this phrase quite a bit at recovery meetings. In this episode I explain what this phrase means and give practical ideas to help one stay sober.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday May 29, 2023
Episode 136 - Things Everyone in Recovery Should Know
Monday May 29, 2023
Monday May 29, 2023
There are certain things that all people in recovery need to know. In this episode I cover twelve points I think are important in recovery, especially in the early stages. Recovery is difficult, but this list will help you begin the journey that will be the most rewarding thing you ever do.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday May 21, 2023
Episode 135 - Acceptance in Recovery
Sunday May 21, 2023
Sunday May 21, 2023
Recovery from addiction or any other mental health issue can be a long and challenging journey. One of the most critical elements of recovery is learning to accept the things we cannot change. In this episode I discuss some points we need to consider when it comes to acceptance.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Sunday Apr 30, 2023
Episode 134 - Are Addicts Really Powerless Over Their Substances?
Sunday Apr 30, 2023
Sunday Apr 30, 2023
The idea that addicts are powerless over their substances is one of the great questions and mysteries. Powerlessness is a concept commonly referred to in the 12-step community and can be hotly debated. This concept suggests that addicts have lost the ability to control their drug or alcohol use, and that their addiction has taken over their lives. In this episode, I expand on this concept and discuss how and why addiction is discussed in these terms.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Saturday Apr 29, 2023
Episode 133 - The Importance of Structure in Recovery
Saturday Apr 29, 2023
Saturday Apr 29, 2023
Structure is extremely important in recovery from addiction, mental health issues, or other behavioral health problems. Establishing a structured routine can provide a sense of stability, control, and purpose, which can help individuals in recovery maintain their progress and avoid relapse. In this episode I describe how and why structure is an important element of a successful program of recovery.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Monday Apr 17, 2023
Episode 132 - Addiction Runs in The Family-Maggie Hunt
Monday Apr 17, 2023
Monday Apr 17, 2023
Today's guest is Maggie Hunt, Director of Communications and Marketing at Retreat Behavioral Health. Maggie discusses her recovery from Opiate Addiction and how addiction runs in families. The good news is that people can and do recover from addiction, and Maggie explains how she did just that. Today, her life is better than ever, and she is fulfilling the dreams she always had. Through recovery, you too can fulfill your potential through helping others.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Friday Mar 31, 2023
Episode 131 - ”Life is Hard” - Interview with Anne Taydus
Friday Mar 31, 2023
Friday Mar 31, 2023
Life is hard, but Anne Taydus is an example of someone who persevered through difficult times and drug court and achieved long-term sobriety. Drug court helped save her life, and Anne describes her road to recovery. Today, through sobriety Anne is able to accomplish incredible things that benefit the community and improve the lives of children. Anne is also a person that works hard to remove the stigma associated with addiction so others feel safe and can pursue their own path to recovery.
This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/
Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger
