Champagne Problems

In Part 2 of this riveting Champagne Problems conversation, host Robbie Shaw continues his deep-dive with legendary coach Cy Alexander. This episode goes beyond the basketball court to explore the harsh realities of systemic racism in college athletics, the nuances of identity and code-switching, and how Coach Cy navigated decades of adversity with discipline, faith, and a drive to lead. From his early encounters with racism at Duke's basketball camp to being excluded in high-profile coaching spaces, Coach Cy shares personal stories of marginalization—and perseverance. He also opens up about profound personal losses, including the deaths of his wife and mother, his own battle with cancer, and his daughter's breast cancer diagnosis. This is more than a conversation about sports. It's a masterclass in leadership, survival, and what it means to leave a legacy that transcends wins and losses.

In this unforgettable episode of Champagne Problems, host Robbie Shaw sits down with legendary HBCU basketball coach Cy Alexander for a powerful conversation on perseverance, purpose, and impact. From his early days growing up in Winston-Salem with educator parents, to coaching historic runs at South Carolina State and Tennessee State, Coach Cy opens up about the mentors who shaped him, the racism he endured, and the hard lessons he learned on and off the court. Coach Cy shares never-before-heard stories—from receiving life-changing support from Rev. Jesse Jackson to playing beach volleyball with Michael Jordan—and offers a behind-the-scenes look at his upcoming documentary. With personal reflections on loss, illness, and triumph, this is more than a sports story—it's a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and faith. Tune in to hear how one man's love for the game became a legacy of impact far beyond the scoreboard.

In part two of this deeply emotional and inspiring Champagne Problems conversation, host Robbie Shaw reunites with author, advocate, and endurance athlete Laura King Edwards to continue exploring her remarkable story. From battling depression in college to losing her sister Taylor to Batten disease, Laura reflects on the moments that shaped her resilience—and the ones that nearly broke her. This episode dives into the convergence of life and loss as Laura gives birth to her son just days before saying goodbye to her sister. She shares the origin of her book Run to the Light, her bold blindfolded half-marathon challenges (including an attempt at a world record), and how Taylor's life—and death—taught her to truly live. With powerful insight on grief, purpose, and choosing joy despite pain, Laura offers listeners a vivid reminder: we can all do hard things—and grow stronger in the process.

In this profoundly moving episode of Champagne Problems, host Robbie Shaw sits down with Laura King Edwards—author, rare disease advocate, and endurance athlete—for a deeply personal conversation about resilience, purpose, and the power of love. Laura shares her extraordinary journey of navigating life after her sister Taylor's diagnosis with Batten disease, a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder. From founding a nonprofit and running blindfolded half-marathons to becoming a mother just days before losing her sister, Laura offers a raw, inspiring look at grief, healing, and the unexpected ways purpose can unfold. Tune in for a heartfelt dialogue about family, identity, legacy, and what it truly means to live a meaningful life—even in the face of unimaginable loss.  

In this intimate conversation, Robbie traveled to Boulder to sit down with acclaimed music journalist Grayson Currin for a profound exploration that moves far beyond album reviews and artist interviews. One of America's most respected voices in music, Currin opens up about his personal journey including putting down the drink—revealing how this shift transformed not only his relationship with music but with himself and his lovely wife. Together, they navigate the delicate intersections of artistic passion and personal growth, discussing how the timeline of our lives often mirror our deepest struggles and greatest triumphs. From the vulnerability of getting sober to finding renewed purpose in both writing and listening, this conversation touches on the universal themes that connect us all: love, loss, growth, and the constant search for purpose and meaning. Whether you're a music enthusiast, sober, not sober, or simply a fellow traveler on life's fascinating road, this episode offers honest reflections on what it means to hear the world with fresh ears and face each day with newfound clarity.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​  Thanks Grayson!!

In this episode of Champagne Problems, Robbie Shaw sits down with WiBi Ashley, a plant-based chef and wellness advocate, to explore the power of food as medicine. Weebie shares her transformative healing journey after a life-altering car accident, her experiences working as Woody Harrelson's personal chef, and her mission to reconnect people with the healing properties of whole, natural foods. From overcoming trauma to building community through nutrition, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone on a path to holistic health. Check out her website: https://www.artandremedies.com/meet-wibi.html

In this episode of Champagne Problems, host Robbie Shaw sits down with Ben Ellsworth at the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston to discuss his journey from the depths of addiction in the hospitality industry to a life of sobriety and founder of tech startup Gigpro. Ben shares raw insights about the culture of excess in restaurants, the wake-up call that changed his path, the positive shifting trends in the food and beverage world, and the technology he created to help fill shifts across the hospitality spectrum.  Thank you for all you do, Ben!

Robbie Shaw sits down with Hunter Lewis, Editor in Chief of Food & Wine Magazine, to explore the publication's growing commitment to the alcohol-free beverage movement. Lewis shares how Food & Wine is evolving to better represent the full spectrum of hospitality experiences, including thoughtful coverage of non-alcoholic options that don't compromise on flavor or sophistication.    The conversation delves into the magazine's initiatives to support hospitality professionals battling addiction and other mental health challenges—a particularly pressing issue in an industry historically known for its demanding environment.    Lewis discusses how Food & Wine is using its platform to reduce stigma, highlight resources, and champion a more balanced approach to wellbeing within restaurant culture. 

Whether navigating life's daily challenges or pursuing creative passions, the journey to sobriety can open unexpected doors to personal growth and authentic living.    In this episode, Robbie visits Nashville to sit down with Kristen Bear, founder of Creative Sobriety, who shares her transformative path from a life intertwined with alcohol to one filled with purpose and clarity. Through candid conversation, Kristen opens up about her personal experiences and the profound insights she gained along her journey. She explores how removing alcohol from her life didn't just lead to better health—it unleashed a wellspring of creativity and self-discovery that transformed her approach to both personal and professional challenges.    As the founder of Creative Sobriety, Kristen has built a community that challenges the traditional narratives around drinking culture and offers a fresh perspective on alcohol-free living. Our discussion delves into practical strategies for those considering sobriety, while examining how this lifestyle choice can enhance rather than limit life's possibilities.   Connect with Kristen and explore more about Creative Sobriety through Instagram @CreativeSobriety or visit her website at www.creativesobriety.co to discover resources, community support, and inspiration for your own journey toward an alcohol-free lifestyle.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​  

Courtney Michelle writes, produces, and performs a style of comedy that is not only unavoidably relatable, it is so impeccably timed and executed that it feels like you're doing a real-life skit with her. Courtney's many characters are so outrageous that you don't know anyone like her, but you're 100% sure they exist somewhere…and you likely hate them. And I mean that in the most positively comedic way possible. Courtney is a delight on and off the camera and was a pleasure to discuss life with. Follow her now because you'll be seeing her in the spotlight more and more.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itscourtneymichelle TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itscourtneymichelle YouTube: https://youtube.com/@itscourtneymichelle

Matt Dawson "Dawson" is a highly successful financial professional turned multi-record-holding endurance and adventure athlete, sought-after public speaker, lifestyle and performance coach, and Founder of Dawson's Peak Foundation.  Beginning project Seven for Soldiers (set 7 world records) in May 2021, Dawson set multiple records by rapidly completing a previously unheard-of number of global expeditions (in a single year), including summiting the Seven Summits (highest peaks on each continent), skiing to the South Pole, traversing the Mojave Desert solo without help, and rowing across the Atlantic.  Although he was on track to additionally ski to the North Pole and fly a single-engine plane around the world during this same year, his plans were delayed due to the global pandemic and Russia/Ukraine events.  Dawson is also an avid traveler (35+ countries), a licensed motorcycle racer, a US Navy qualified "Expert" with pistol and rifle, an outdoor enthusiast, and an IFR licensed fixed wing airplane pilot.  Tune in to listen to Robbie and Dawson discuss the journey to this level of self-challenge, mental health, surrender, and perseverance. Dawson's book, Strength in Surrender: What One Man's Expeditions Through the World's Harshest Environments Can Teach You About Facing Your Fears and Living with Purpose, just released and it is a MUST READ.

Joe Bruno is Charlotte, NC's very own beloved journalist. In this episode, Joe rightfully takes the interviewer seat and flips the script on Robbie. Three years ago, the Champagne Problems host told his very honest and very vulnerable story that included addiction, rock bottom, and redemption. Tune in to hear Joe dig in to Robbie's journey over the three years since... including a separation, a breakthrough, a podcast production startup, and an inevitable amount of maturation.  Thank you Joe Bruno for taking this on!

Molly Fienning is a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader who has successfully launched and scaled multiple consumer brands. She is the CEO and co-founder of Sipland, a company expanding the evolution of alcohol-free spirits and culture. Prior to Sipland, she co-founded Babiators, a multi-million dollar children's sunglasses company that revolutionized the kids' eyewear market. She later served as CEO of Red Clay Hot Sauce, where she helped grow the artisanal hot sauce brand into a nationally recognized name. Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Fienning is known for her expertise in building direct-to-consumer brands and creating compelling brand narratives. She is also an investor and advisor to early-stage companies, particularly those led by women and underrepresented founders.

PJ Nestler is a performance specialist, educator, consultant and speaker in the areas of performance breathing, human performance, combat athlete preparation, mindset, and recovery.  PJ has worked with professional athletes from the UFC, NFL, and NHL, US Military Special Ops, and executives around the world.  Join Robbie and PJ as they discuss the path that led him to become one of the most talented, passionate, and meticulous performance system and framework builders in the industry.  PJ states that his ultimate quest is to figure out “how to get people to do what they know is good for them.”  Thank you for all you do, brother PJ.  www.FitLab.com www.XPTLife.com https://youtube.com/@coachpjnestler https://www.instagram.com/coachpjnestler

Cesalina Gracie (link her name to www.cesalonagracie.com) comes from the largest fighting dynasty in the world. Her grandfather, Grand Master Carlos Gracie Sr. was a pioneer in the art of Brazilian jiu-jitsu and a pivotal force behind the creation of the UFC.  Cesalina has taken the teachings from her family‘s lineage and applied them to modern-day female empowerment becoming a worldrenown self-defense expert. She trains women and girls to confidently use their voices, adopt a posture of strength, and develop a mindset focused on self-worth and resilience.  Cesalina was the official host of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, summited Mount Everest with six weeks to train, and is a loving, caring, and kind friend to many. This was an honor. https://www.gracieuniversity.com Insta: @cesagracie https://www.linkedin.com/in/cesalina-gracie

Laird Hamilton is a legendary waterman who changed the face of surfing years ago by breaking the barriers to riding bigger and faster waves.  He proves time and time again that he is one of the world's greatest adventurers, innovators, and inspirations. In this episode, Laird and Robbie discuss pushing limits, mastering discomfort, inevitable growth, willingness to change, and parenting daughters.   www.lairdhamilton.com www.lairdsuperfood.com www.lairdapparel.com www.xptlife.com

Robbie sits down with Jim Sonefeld, the original member and drummer of the infamous band, Hootie and the Blowfish. Jim shares stories from the band's beginnings in Columbia, South Carolina to their fast rise in fame, to the dark times and back around tot he current tour selling out areas across the country (again). Jim also has a memoir titled, "Swimming With the Blowfish - Hootie, Healing, and One Hell of a Ride" where he goes much deeper on many of the stories, insights, and life lessons he tells here. Jim is an author, a musician, a songwriter, a father, a husband, a storyteller, a rock star, and an absolute legend.  www.jimsonefeld.com 

Carson Clough joins Robbie for a follow up conversation after his silver medal performance in Paris 2024. Carson takes us through his training leading up to the Paralympics, through the PTS4 triathlon, and the party that ensued after his victory.  I cannot say enough about this warrior. He's a true American gentleman and an inspiration to all. He would never say this about himself so allow me to shout it from the rooftops! Much love, Carson Clough. Thank you to our sponsor: https://bonbuz.com/

Matt Doherty is a nationally recognized motivational speaker, best-selling author, and media personality. He guides corporations, C-suite managers, sales executives, and business and sports coaches to develop their leadership skills and team dynamics. Since being part of the 1982 National Championship team with Michael Jordan at UNC, his journey has included Assistant Coach at University of Kansas, Head Coach at Notre Dame, and Head Coach at University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, winning the 2001 ACC Regular Season Championship, AP National Coach of the Year in 2001. In addition, he has also worked with ESPN, the Indiana Pacers, and the Atlantic 10 Conference. Coach Doherty is committed to sharing universal teaching and actionable ideas that will work for anyone. The rest is up to you! Thank you to our sponsor: https://bonbuz.com/

Robbie and Patrick come together for the 99th episode to discuss the journey of Champagne Problems as well as the personal and professional growth that has come with it. We discuss favorite smells, last meals, the inception of Champagne Problems, favorite episodes, good times and hard times, growth, and the future. Thank you, Patrick, for all you have done, currently do, and will continue doing. Thank you to our sponsor: https://bonbuz.com/

Carson Clough grew up a sports guy. He competed in all areas of his life, all the way up to collegiate lacrosse at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Tragedy struck when a boating accident severed one of his legs and mangled the other. A talented surgical team and a bit of luck saved one of his legs but amputated the other below the knee. Almost simultaneously, Carson accepted this extreme change in his life and started moving forward in his new direction. Fast-forward five years and he's the #1 PTS4 (below knee amputee) Para Triathlete in the USA competing in the Paralympics in Paris on September 1st. Join us for a glimpse inside the mind of a young man who had his life turned upside down and in a matter of months turned it rightside back up. Carson Clough is nothing shy of a badass. Website: carsonclough.com Instagram: carsonclough_ Thank you to our sponsor: https://bonbuz.com/

Jamie Brown, renown Charlotte restauranteur, suffered from anxiety and severe panic attacks resulting in depression and often suicidal thoughts. She tried everything. One day, as a last ditch effort, she began to consider that her "mental" symptoms could be some sort of autoimmune response. She took this further and started to test her response to foods. Six years later, she hasn't had a panic attack since. In this episode, Robbie brings in Dr. Carlos Jorge, MD who is triple board certified in family medicine, lipidology, functional medicine and anti-aging and Dr. Nicole Fodel, DC who has an MS in Oriental Medicine and is a Licensed Acupuncturist, to join the conversation with Jamie about her nutritional journey. Three amazingly educated and experienced humans doing a roundtable on nutrition and mental health...what more can you ask for?! Thank you to our sponsor: https://bonbuz.com/

Robbie was welcomed into the home of Kim and Penn Holderness to record an inevitably fun, hilarious, and inspirational conversation. The overnight rise to fame from a digital Christmas card, a co-authored best selling book titled ADHD is Awesome, and a vulnerable share around the not-so-obvious battle of anxiety are just a few of the topics covered in this episode. Kim and Penn are two of the most genuine, energetic, honest, driven, and outright fun people I have had the pleasure of knowing. Damn this one was fun!   Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

BJ Barham got sober 9 years ago. About that time his songwriting got better, his performances got better, and his band began to see more success. In this episode, BJ shares lot of what made him who he is today including growing up seven generations deep in a small tobacco town, a hard-working father, a beautifully loving mother, and a journey to sobriety. Fast-forward to current day and BJ is the lead singer/songwriter of the increasingly successful and popular American/folk/country band, American Aquarium, where he continues to write deep and cerebral lyrics based in growth, maturity, acceptance, compassion, and healing. Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

Brian Strahine is a men's counselor, men's coach, men's retreat leader, a certified teacher/trainer in yoga, mindfulness, breathwork, and sound therapy, and has a masters in school counseling and a doctorate in education. Brian is a force to be reckoned with in many ways, but most importantly in men's work. Through his self-curated retreat, Men's Sacred Liberation, Brian leads men through a journey of self exploration, challenge, growth, and community. In this episode hosted by Robbie and Patrick, you will learn not only what it means to be a real man, but also what it takes. Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

Emily Heintz launched Sèchey in 2021 as a retail concept leveraging her extensive experience in e-commerce and retail technology. Initially founded to drive the awareness and convenience of non-alcoholic beverages, Sèchey has evolved into a destination for alternative celebration with alcohol free spirits, wine & beer, but also low dose THC products and a small selection of traditional wine. A nod to the French word for dry, Sèchey is now a premium vertically integrated retailer fueled by the rapid growth of the no/low alcohol movement.  Now available at Target nationwide, Sèchey's own line of de-alcoholized wine sits amongst her curated selection of best selling alternatives to alcohol. Emily has wealth of industry knowledge and is an inspiration and a delightful soul. Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

Brittany Harris, Executive Director of Cirque Lodge Treatment Center, sits down with Robbie and Patrick to discuss what sparked her passion and led her into this demanding field, and into this esteemed position. Brittany began working at Cirque Lodge in 1999 and by 2008 was working as a member of the management team, overseeing different aspects of the functional operations side of our facilities. Over the next 12 years she continued in this capacity, working side by side with our then Executive Director. In 2020 she began overseeing the revenue side of the organization, being chiefly responsible for admissions and marketing, as well as being intimately involved in the 80,000 square foot expansion of the studio location. She was named Executive Director in March 2022. Brittany currently serves as a board member for the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers and volunteers on multiple committees within the organization including but not limited to "women supporting women in leadership". Brittany shares powerful experiences from her family of origin and how helplessly watching her loved ones suffer from addiction created the need to help others. Brittany represents everything that is good in this world. She is sensitive, loyal, altruistic, and driven and we are honored to have had her on our show for an incredibly inspiring conversation.

Robbie traveled to LA to sit down with actor and comedian, John Ross Bowie. Bowie has over 100 credits in TV and film, including: “The Big Bang Theory,” (11 seasons as Barry Kripke) “Speechless,” (3 seasons as Jimmy Dimeo) “Fresh off the Boat,” “Episodes,” “Brooklyn 99,” “House of Lies,” “Heroes," multiple "CSIs,"  Jumanji: The Next Level, He's Just Not That Into You, and What the Bleep do we Know? He is also an incredibly talented improv comedian, as you will see. In 2022, he published No Job For A Man, his memoir titled after a quote from his father about making money from the arts. He has been performing at Upright Citizens Brigade theater since 1998, and can often be seen in SUPERMARRIED, the two person improv show with his wife, Jamie Denbo. Bowie also quit drinking and that was fun to discuss as well. 

Mike Gminski, a former American professional basketball player, is renowned for his impressive career in the NBA and now, his contributions to advocacy around addiction recovery. Making a name for himself at Duke University, Gminski was a standout center, earning multiple accolades including All-ACC and All-American honors. His college success paved the way for a distinguished NBA career, where he played for teams like the New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Charlotte Hornets. Beyond the basketball court, Gminski has also built a remarkable 30-year career in broadcasting, where his insights and experience have made him a respected voice in sports media. Alongside this successful broadcasting career, he faced and overcame significant struggles with addiction. His journey to recovery has been a source of inspiration and motivation for his advocacy work in the field of addiction recovery. Gminski is passionately involved in helping others who face similar challenges, using his personal experience and public platform to raise awareness about addiction and the possibilities of recovery. He actively participates in various programs and initiatives that support those battling addiction, often sharing his story to encourage and guide others towards a path of sobriety and health. He's currently the Director of Mentorship at Sana House and sits on the Board of Directors at Emerald School of Excellence, NC's first recovery high school.  Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

Initiated by the Joe Martin ALS Foundation, Robbie Shaw traveled to LA to sit down with Aaron Lazar about his experience before, during and after his ALS diagnosis. Aaron is an actor, singer, and entrepreneur known for his work on Broadway, television, film and concerts and has made it his personal mission to educate and inspire people around the world who are battling this awful disease. Aaron will be the keynote for the Joe Martin ALS Foundaiton's April 17th and 18th fundraising events in Greensboro and Charlotte. Tickets here. This episode was co-produced by Studio City Sound and produced by EVRYBDY Studios.

Joining Robbie Shaw and Patrick Balsley on the Champagne Problems Podcast is Michael Stutts, a native Charlottean with a unique and inspiring story. Once a high-flying executive, Michael chose a drastic shift from the corner office to a psych ward, prioritizing mental health over his remarkable career in investment banking and management consulting. In his compelling book, "There's No Room Service at the Psych Ward," Michael candidly shares his journey, offering valuable insights for high achievers facing similar challenges. His experiences as a former Managing Director, Partner at a global consultancy, and C-suite executive in major corporations, combined with his personal battles and victories, make for an engaging and enlightening conversation about mental health, resilience, and starting anew.  Instagram: @mstutts Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz

Robbie and Patrick sit down with Hilary Phelps, recovery advocate, former swimmer, and older sister of Olympic swimmer, Michael Phelps. Hilary discusses her relationship with alcohol and drugs throughout adolescence and early adulthood and shares the experiences that led to her decision to get sober and build a life, and subsequent career, filled with connection and purpose. From her early years, Hilary shone brightly as a beacon of promise, excelling with top grades and outpacing her peers as the nation's fastest swimmer in the country for her age group. Yet, at just 14, her life took a dramatic turn with her first sip of alcohol, marking the beginning of a 15-year struggle with addiction—a time filled with profound emptiness, confusion, and a sense of being lost. At 29, Hilary courageously took a significant step towards healing by checking into rehab for substance use disorder. Her journey into sobriety entailed much more than simply giving up alcohol; it was about fundamentally changing her life, distancing herself from negative influences, and confronting the underlying issues that led her to addiction.  After 15 years of keeping her story of sobriety and recovery to herself (a quiet, personal victory), she realized the power and importance of sharing her story. She began to publicly share her story which led to more opportunities to speak out. Through these experiences, Hilary discovered a deeper purpose: to offer hope and encouragement to others who are healing quietly, helping them to persevere by openly sharing her own journey of recovery and healing. Today, as a speaker, an addiction recovery advocate, writer, and holistic wellness coach, Hilary is dedicated to helping other women find their voices and heal from the challenges holding them back. Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz: https://bonbuz.com/

Robbie Shaw and Shep Rose of Bravo's Southern Charm reality TV show, have an entertaining, energetic and often deep discussion around life in the public eye, fame, expectations, and growth. Shep opens up about some of his struggles and subsequent changes he's looking to make as he focuses more on his general well-being.

Champagne Problems host Patrick Balsey, facilitates a live panel discussion at the Counterculture NA beverage festival. Panelists include Counterculture Club founder Molly Ruggere, Jacob Virgil, Director of Strategic development at Noda Brewing, Miranda Michaels, Events Manager for The Mule and Devils Foot Beverage Company and Corinne Brown, the founder of Be Refreshed Beverage Company. Tune in to hear a wide range discussion on the topic of NA beverage and NA culture.  Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz: https://bonbuz.com/

Liz is an award-winning journalist, international bestselling author and has been the executive producer and host of several critically acclaimed digital series at Vox Media and NBC News. She hosts Synced, a podcast with Monica Padman and Dax Shepard and the Man Enough podcast with Justin Baldoni and Jamey Heath where they interview influential figures about their journey to manhood. Her critically acclaimed book “For The Love of Men: a Vision for Mindful Masculinity” was featured in Vogue, Esquire, Playboy, ELLE Magazine, GQ, NPR, The Washington Post on Morning Joe and on Dax Shepard's Armchair Expert. She is the CEO of Liz Plank Productions and is a columnist for MSNBC and has been listed as one of Forbes' 30 Under 30, Mediaite's Most Influential in News Media, and Marie Claire's Most Powerful Women, and was named one of the World's Most Influential People in Gender Policy by Apolitical. She's built a loyal following across social media platforms, but her proudest accomplishment remains being blocked by the 45th president of the United States. Robbie's co-host today is former guest and friend of the podcast, Sarah Olin.  Sarah Olin is the founder and CEO of Luscious Mother, whose mission is to support women in their pursuit and creation of great lives – however they define them. Robbie and Sarah go deep with Liz and shed light on the many passions that drive Liz to be one of the most powerful forces in the world of journalism today. Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz: https://bonbuz.com/

Ditched the Drink is a wellness company dedicated to helping professionals drink less before it gets worse. Heather provides content, knowledge, coaching, and education to individuals and organizations seeking to be more alcohol free. Heather is passionate about coaching, connecting people with alcohol free resources, and creating a positive sober community. Tune in as Robbie and Heather have an enjoyable conversation around all things alcohol, alcohol-free, and the freedom from alcohol. Thank you to our sponsor: Bonbuz: https://bonbuz.com/  

Miles Adcox is a speaker, thought leader, advocate, advisor, and entrepreneur in the emotional wellness space. He is the Chairman and Owner of Onsite, an internationally-known emotional wellness lifestyle brand that delivers life-changing personal growth workshops, digital mental health master classes, emotionally smart leadership retreats, and residential emotional wellness and trauma treatment. Tune in to hear Patrick and Robbie have an in-depth conversation with Miles around his personal journey that led to this passion, Onsite, and all things emotional wellness.    

“Dr. Valerie Young is to impostor syndrome what Brené Brown is to vulnerability.” Dr. Young is an internationally-known speaker, author, leading expert on impostor syndrome, and co-founder of The Impostor Syndrome Institute. A former manager in a Fortune 200 company herself, she's addressed over 60,000 people at such diverse organizations as Intel, Chrysler, Boeing, IBM, Procter & Gamble, Ernst & Young, McDonald's, American Women in Radio and Television, Society of Women Engineers, Harvard and Stanford. Her book, The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: Why Capable People Suffer from the Impostor Syndrome and How to Thrive in Spite of It is available in 5 languages. Tune in to understand why we often we feel like we are tricking people into believing we are smart, capable, and qualified!

Clifford Stephan is the founder of Booze Vacation, a health and wellness company for high-performing men who want to take their lives and careers to the next level, simply by using the massive benefits that come from taking a break from booze. Clifford founded Booze Vacation after realizing the recreational drinking that helped him build his personal and professional success in his 20s and 30s was holding him back in his 40s. Although not a problem drinker, he decided to see if a year off from drinking would help him upgrade his health and professional potential. It did...exponentially. And Booze Vacation was born. Thanks Clifford!

Jerry Schwab has over twenty years of experience as an executive with non-profit healthcare organizations. Prior to taking the role of CEO at High Watch Recovery, Jerry was the Executive Director of a Connecticut-based emergency medical service provider and served many years as a licensed paramedic. Jerry is also the founder of the Global Exchange Conference, a 4 day event of continuing education, presentations, workshops, and experiences all surrounding mental health, addiction, wellness, and leadership. Get tickets here! Tune in to hear Patrick and Robbie go deep with Jerry on High Watch history, the inception of Global Exchange, today's addiction, and individualized treatment modalities. Jerry is a saint!      

*Trigger Warning: Some discussion around suicide. Patrick sits down with renowned therapist and author, Dr. Brad Reedy from Evoke Therapy Programs to debunk the myths around the therapeutic process and answer the question: Why should I go to therapy? Patrick and Dr. Reedy discuss attachment theory, developmental psychology, trauma, the barriers and benefits of therapy and what to look for in an “adequate” therapist.

Scott Strode, sober for over 25 years, is the Executive Director of The Phoenix, a transformational nonprofit he founded in 2006. The Phoenix is fueling a movement that is changing how society looks at addiction and recovery. They provide free programs both in-person and virtually, across the globe, including yoga, climbing, music, CrossFit, art, and more. The only cost to participate is 48 hours of sobriety. Scott says, “It might be the activity that brings someone in, but it's the community of sober friendships that keeps them coming back.” Thank you Scott!