Recovery Is Possible

Episode - 145 The Power of Becoming a Whole Person

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. 

www.aparnasain.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

Episode - 144 Making a Decision for Recovery

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.

www.aparnasain.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

Episode - 143 The Importance of Relationships

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

Episode - 142 Focusing on Mental Health

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

Episode - 141 The Spiritual Awakening in Recovery

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

Episode - 140 Mindfulness with Aparna Sain

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

Episode -139 The Joys and Happiness in Life

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

Episode - 138 Sharpening Your Ax

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

Episode - 137 People, Places, Things, and Situations

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

Episode - 136 Things Everyone in Recovery Should Know

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

Episode - 135 Acceptance in Recovery

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

Episode - 134 Are Addicts Really Powerless Over Their Substances?

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

Episode - 133 The Importance of Structure in Recovery

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

Episode - 132 Addiction Runs in The Family-Maggie Hunt

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

 

Episode - 131 ”Life is Hard” - Interview with Anne Taydus

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

 

Episode - 130 Progress Rather Than Perfection

In this episode I discuss questions I received from people who are in treatment. There is a lot of work people must do early in recovery, but people need to be patient as well. Progress rather than perfection is this week's concept.

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

 

Episode - 129 Willingness Is The Key

Many people just do not have the willingness to listen to others and learn how they achieved sobriety. Ego, our perceived intellect, and stubbornness get in the way. In this episode we discuss this topic, as well as the importance of getting active and committed to meetings.

This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/

Episode - 128 Medically Assisted Treatment

For a lot of people in recovery Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a controversial subject. But does it need to be? I have seen many people struggle to achieve sobriety, and I have to say that MAT is a tool that may help many who struggle early on. In this episode, I discuss this subject and give you some insight from my experiences that you may not have considered.

This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/

 

Episode - 127 Willingness Is The Key

Many people just do not have the willingness to listen to others and learn how they achieved sobriety. Ego, our perceived intellect, and stubbornness get in the way. In this episode we discuss this topic, as well as the importance of getting active and committed to meetings.

This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/

 

Episode - 126 Interview with Steve Click: Ohio ASSIST Program

I interviewed retired Ohio State Trooper Steve Click about how the Ohio ASSIST Program helps First Responders deal with Critical Incidents. 

This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/

 

 

Episode - 125 FBI National Academy Instructor Suzanna Hasnay Discusses Resiliency

Resiliency is critical to wellness and dealing with all that life throws at us. In this episode I interview Suzanna Hasnay who taught with me at the FBI National Academy. Suzanna discusses how and why resiliency is important for our life, career, and recovery.

This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/

 

 

Episode - 124 Ashley Addiction Treatment Center-Interview with the Co-CEOs

Ashley Addiction Treatment Center is a special place for many people in recovery. The founding influence was Father Joseph Martin who famously produced the "Chalk Talk" series in the 1970's and is still used extensively today. In the present-day, Ashley has evolved into a center that prides itself on utilizing the recent advancements in recovery research to help patients navigate the difficult path towards recovery. In this episode I interview the Co-CEO's, Alex Dentsman and Dr. Gregory Hobelmann about the great work they are doing and what they believe the future of addiction treatment is. 

For more information on Ashley Addiction Treatment Center, check out their website at:

https://www.ashleytreatment.org/

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode - 123 Recovery and Spirituality with Ray Houk

Ray Houk is a recently retired Chaplain from the United States Navy. Ray has extensive experience working with service members who have suffered trauma as well as addiction. In this episode, Ray shares with us some of those experiences as well as the role that spirituality plays in helping those who are suffering navigate these experiences.

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode - 122 Sue Gilroy-Women-Self-Worth, Shame, and Trauma

Today's episode takes a little different direction where Sue Gilroy and I discuss the trauma and conditioning of women regarding their self-worth, shame, and trauma. Sue is from Australia and is a professional Life Coach, Registered Nurse, and has worked with management of Medical Centers in Singleton and Hunter Valley in New South Wales, Australia. This is an important topic that relates to recovery and women struggling in so many ways. 

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Episode 121 - Inspiration or Desperation-Bev Perez, ShieldUs

More First Responders die from their own hand than from conflict from a suspect. This is a real problem, and Bev Perez, CEO and founder of ShieldUs helps First Responders deal with trauma, especially suicide. If you are in the First Responder profession, or have a loved one that is, this episode is a must listen. Bev spent ten years in the Prince George's County, Maryland Police Department and experienced a traumatic incident herself. After healing herself, Bev created ShieldUs which utilizes holistic practices. Bev also conducts training, engages in motivational speaking, and is planning retreats that she hopes will begin in 2023. 

Marian "Bev" Perez

www.shieldus.app

Instagram: @Shieldus.app

_Bevebev

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Episode 120 - Former NFL Player Ken Harvey on Setting Goals

Ken Harvey was an Outside Linebacker for both the Phoenix Cardinals and the Washington Redskins. He was the First Round, Twelfth Overall Pick in the 1988 NFL Draft, four-time Pro Bowler, played 164 NFL games and had 89 sacks. He played professionally from 1988-1998 and he has had an incredible journey. Ken's story is special in that he never thought he would make it to where he did, but through perseverance, determination, and above all setting goals for himself he was able to accomplish things few people ever will. I met Ken at a luncheon for the Loudon Serenity House, which provides affordable sober living opportunities for people who want to achieve long-term sobriety. Ken was the Keynote speaker at this event, and I thought his story was so inspirational I asked him if he would come on to this program. He did! Ken has been very gracious with his time, and I know his story will both touch and inspire you.

 

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode 119 - Tom Farley Interview

Tom Farley is comedian Chris Farley's brother, who tragically died from his addiction in 1997. I met Tom at a fundraising event for a recovery center and was deeply touched by his story of recovery and the work he is doing not only for his own sobriety, but for the community. Tom discusses his own struggles with addiction, and describes what life was like growing up in an environment where people were so focused on Chris' addiction, that they failed to address their own. Tom has a powerful message of hope and strength that will surely help those who are struggling.

tfarley@rosecrance.org

rosecrance.org

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Episode 118 - Radio Broadcast ”Can You Be Too Smart for Recovery?”

Our material is now being broadcast weekly on 96.7 FM WERA here in Arlington, Virginia. This episode is titled "Can You Be Too Smart for Recovery" and explores the reasons why people discount recovery programs to their own detriment. I also discuss why it is important to trust those that have experience, and more importantly have had success with recovery. This is a very important message for people looking to improve their lives through recovery and is also helpful for those who have loved ones that are still suffering.

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode 117 - Never Quit-Recovery Is Possible-Sean MacMillen

Sean MacMillen has a powerful story of resilience and is an example of someone who kept persisting until the miracle of sobriety happened. Sean went through five inpatient treatment facilities, and nine or ten detox stays, but he never gave up. Sean says, "your life is on the line" and you can't give up. Today, Sean spends his time helping others and is an accomplished ultra-runner. Sean lives his life of service because "there are a lot of people out there hiding that could be helping others." This is so true, and Sean has remained sober through tremendous loss, and shows that sobriety is possible no matter what happens in life.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

HerrenProject.Org

Facebook: Sean MacMillen

Instagram: Sober_Sean_MacMillen

 

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Episode 116 - Buddy C.-What are You Putting Your Effort In?

Buddy C. has a powerful story of recovery and loss. Buddy discovered his faith was lacking something, then he began a study of Tao Te Ching that has helped him live a life free from alcohol. Buddy has suffered serious loss in recovery yet has remained sober through it all. He even wrote a book called "Powerless but Not Helpless" which is a meditation book of 81 verses from Tao Te Ching that can help live an alcohol-free life and have freedom from any addictive behavior. You will certainly not want to miss this fascinating conversation!

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Book: Powerless but Not Helpless

e-mail: buddycauthor@gmail.com

Web: http://www.buddyc.org

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Episode 115 - High Bottom, You Don’t Need to Wait-Susanne Navas

It has been said "you don't need to ride the elevator to the bottom, you can get off on any floor." Susanne Navas had this experience, finding sobriety before her drinking created the damage in her life that many people experience. You do not have to wait until it is too late. If you think your drinking is a problem, then it probably is. Susanne shares with us her experience, strength, and hope with her powerful story. 

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Susanne's website: http://www.therebootcoach.net/

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Episode 114 - Pete Sousa-What Do You Want to Be Remembered For?

Pete Sousa describes his battle with addiction and how it took everything, then allowed him to rise to become the Morning Anchor at KWTX in Waco, TX, a CBS affiliate. Pete is also a Play-by-Play Anchor with ESPN, and hosts his own podcast called "The Payoff with Pete." While in active addiction he could have never guessed that life could be this good. Pete shares his experience, strength, and hope with us and says, "all we have is our experiences." This is so true, and this is how we help one another. You will not want to miss Pete's powerful story of recovery.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Podcast: The Payoff with Pete

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Episode 113 - Just Keep Going - Kelly Thrush

Just keep going, get through what is in front of you. This sums up recovery! Recovery is tough, but you get through it one day at a time, one hour at a time, sometimes even one minute at a time...but you never give up, just keep going. In this episode Kelly shares with us his experience, strength, and hope, and discusses how he was able to overcome the shame and guilt of how his drinking caused significant health issues. This is a powerful story, and Kelly demonstrates the amazing things you can do with your life once you commit to recovery.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode 112 - Addiction Rescue with Dana Golden

In this episode we discuss the effects of addiction on the family and the resources that are available. My guest is Dana Golden the author of Addiction Rescue; The NO-BS Guide of Recovery. Dana is also a blogger for Psychology Today, a Recovery Coach, Family Addiction Coach, and an Interventionist. Her focus and passion is working with families struggling with a loved one's Substance Use Disorder. This episode is a wealth of information for family members as well as those that know someone struggling with addiction. 

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at FHE Health

DanaGolden.com

LifeRecoveryCoach.com

DanaGolden.com/quiz

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Episode 111 - ”The Payoff with Pete” Interview

I recently appeared on "The Payoff with Pete" podcast hosted by Pete Sousa. In this episode you learn a little bit about my story and background as well as how the disease of addiction progresses. This is an interview full of all kinds of useful information that will equip you with information you can use to not only help yourself, but others as well.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at FHE Health

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode 110 - Melissa Hinton from Loudon Serenity House

Melissa Hinton started Loudon Serenity House after the death of her sister in 2019. In an effort to help those that are suffering from addiction, Melissa made sure that that Loudoun Serenity House followed the mission of providing supportive and affordable residential services to women and men striving for their best life, a sober life, free from dependency on alcohol, opioids, and other narcotics. Melissa and I discuss the need for follow-on care after treatment, and how facilities like this increase the likelihood of long-term sobriety. There is a lot of great information in this episode that will prove useful for those searching for recovery, or for those looking to help others.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at FHE Health

website: loudonserenity.org

e-mail: info@loudonserenity.org

Phone: 571-207-9000

Also on Facebook and Instagram

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Episode 109 - Hilary Phelps - ”Are You Living or Just Existing?”

Our guest today is Hilary Phelps, and she shares her experience, strength, and hope. Hilary is an amazing woman originally from Baltimore, Maryland, who was the first of the Phelps' children to jump into the water and become a competitive swimmer. Hilary attended the University of Richmond where she studied Criminal Justice and Sociology, while competing on a swimming scholarship. Today, Hilary is involved in numerous endeavors including fashion to food to fitness to geo-cultural issues. She is demonstrating what can be accomplished with a life of sobriety.

In this episode Hilary discusses success, happiness, and how to live life to the fullest. She also discusses how success, fame, and the pursuit of perfection is not an antidote for depression or addiction. Everyone has the potential to suffer from these issues, but the good news is there is a solution, and Hilary explains what that solution is.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at FHE Health

website: http://www.hilaryphelps.com

Twitter: @HilaryPhelps

Instagram: @Hilary_Phelps

Snapchat: @Hilary_Phelps

Facebook: GenuineJoy

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Episode 108 - Charlie Engle - The Penguin - Movement for Recovery

Charlie Engle is a fascinating individual who is celebrating 30 years of continuous sobriety in July. As part of his celebration, Charlie will be running for 30 continuous hours to honor sobriety and to raise funds for scholarships and research in an event called "The Penguin." This event will be taking place at Ashley Addiction Treatment Center in Havre De Grace, Maryland on July 23-24, 2022, and you can participate and contribute to the cause if you wish. Charlie discusses this event as well as how we can help our citizens and First Responders overcome addiction and Mental Health issues as well as things we can do to incorporate treatment into the Criminal Justice system. 

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

website: charlieengle.com

Book: Running Man: A Memoir of Ultra-Endurance

Documentary: Running the Sahara (Narrated by Matt Damon)

Instagram: @charlieengle

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Episode 107 - Irish Angel: Interview with Amanda Coleman

Irish Angel is a support network for Law Enforcement, EMS, Fire Fighters, and military. They provide education, awareness, and resources about addictions, PTSD, PTSI, TBI, depression and anxiety. They offer opportunities to inform, heal and promote a healthy lifestyle for First Responders. In this episode I speak with Amanda Coleman, Executive Director and Founder of "Irish Angel", who provides a wealth of information on what we need to do to care for those that care for us. I caught up with Amanda at "Police Week" this past May 2022, and she graciously agreed to come on to the show to speak with us.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Irishangel.org

amanda.irishangel@gmail.com

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Episode 106 - Turning It Around with Brian Granneman

Turning it around no matter what. Brian and I met as students at the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School for Addiction Studies, and we connected through our shared background as Police Officers. Brian discusses the progression of the disease of addiction, how it controls your life, and how you are ultimately forced to make a decision. Brian's story demonstrates how you can overcome addiction despite enormous pressure to continue using...no matter what. Brian's story is an inspiration for others and his continued service by training to become a counselor is a testament to how we give back in gratitude.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode 105 - Jeff Thompson: Hardcore Resiliency

We are all a work in progress and need to adapt to whatever life throws at us. This is especially true for First Responders, but everyone can benefit from this idea. Jeff Thompson joins me today to talk about how you can be "the hammer, not the nail" as well as the need for self-compassion. Jeff is a New York Police Department Detective serving as the Mental Health and Wellness Coordinator. In today's episode he is speaking as a Research Scientist with Columbia Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Twitter: @JeffTPhd

Website: 5daysofawe.com

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Episode 104 - Advantages and Disadvantages of Online and In-Person Meetings

The era of COVID brought us online video Recovery Meetings. This was something new, and in-person meeting have never been shut down before. Was this a good thing? It was certainly a great departure from how meetings were conducted before. In this episode I discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both, and you can decide.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode 103 - A Year Working at a Treatment Center - Thoughts

I spent the last year working at an Inpatient Treatment Center as part of an internship. What a learning experience! In this episode I share some of my experiences with you and discuss some of the trends I noticed with the patients and the recovery world.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

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Episode 102 - The Battle Against Trauma - Michael Sugrue

Michael Sugrue just released his book "Relentless Courage: Winning the Battle Against Frontline Trauma". In this episode Michael discusses why he wrote the book and how trauma not only affects First Responders, but all of us. More importantly, Michael discusses what we can do to help overcome the scars of trauma and why it is important for all of us to understand this very important issue. Michael wrote the book with Shauna 'Doc' Springer, Ph.D. and the forward was written by Lt. Colonol Dave Grossman.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Mission 22

FirstRespondersFirst

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Episode 101 - Find Your Why

Addie Betancourt discusses the reasons for becoming sober. "Find your why" is her mantra, and she discusses how coming to this realization changed her life. You can find your why, and you will change your life forever. Addie is the co-host of the podcast "Over a Cup of Coffee" with Jamie Church, and you are going to be inspired by her infectious personality and compelling story.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

coffeechatnm.com

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Episode 100 - Our 100th Episode! Reflections on Recovery

This is an amazing milestone for us, our 100th episode discussing recovery. I am joined by Lillie, who was in our very first episode, and she reflects on the first 100 episodes and the key takeaways from all that was covered. There were so many topics discussed and guests that have their unique perspectives on recovery. I also discuss my thoughts as well as what I learned while interning for the last year at a 28 Day In-patient addiction recovery center. This is an exciting time, and I am looking forward to the next 100 episodes!

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode 99 - The Effects of Trauma

In this episode I am being interviewed by Dr. Robb Kelly regarding the effects of trauma in Law Enforcement. The fact is, we all experience trauma, and it has an incredible impact on our well-being on so many levels. This is certainly true for First Responders, but it is also true everyone. I have never met anyone that in recovery, or anyone struggling with getting into recovery that did not experience some form of trauma. Dr. Kelly describes how trauma and addiction are related, and most importantly, what we can do about it.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Website: robbkelly.com

Phone: 214-600-0210

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Episode 98 - Lies People Tell with Frank Runles

Have you ever wondered about all of the lies people tell you? Would you like to know how to detect when people are lying to you? Frank Runles just published a book called Lies People Tell: An FBI Agent's toolkit for catching liars and cheats. It is an excellent book, and I have known Frank for years beginning when we were both instructors at the FBI National Academy. This book is useful in so many ways, but in this episode, we discuss how his tools can be applied to the recovery world as we try to help others, and we also discuss how we sometimes lie to ourselves.

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Here are links you can use for Frank's book:

https://store.bookbaby.com/book/Lies-People-Tell

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09R2BSPQZ/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode 97 - Patrick Fitzgibbons: Dealing with Your Demons

Dealing with the demons you face is the beginning of recovery, and Patrick Fitzgibbons knows this as well as anyone. Patrick tells his story of how he was able to get well with the help of others, and how you can do the same if you are willing and open to suggestions. Patrick was able to get the help he needed, and his story is an inspiration to everyone who thinks that life will not or cannot get better. After years of serving in the military and law enforcement, Patrick serves as a National Outreach Liaison for FHE Health, has his own podcast, is an author, and is a coach and educator.

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This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

Episode 96 - Mindfulness: A Discussion with Richard Goerling

Mindfulness, yoga, and breathe work are tools that can help all of us but is often overlooked. This is especially true for first responders and the military but is also true for everyone. Richard Goerling talks about these practices and how they can be used to help you improve your overall function and vitality. Richard has a long career in law enforcement and as a Health, Humanity, and Performance Coach, he teaches his concepts all over the country to include SWAT Teams, military personnel, and FBI Tactical Teams. There is a lot to learn in this conversation, and you will not want to miss it!

This episode is brought to you by FHE Health. Find out more at fhehealth.com

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richard@mindfulbadge.com

Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger