Facing Addiction

In the very first episode of The Modality Podcast, presented by Pinnacle Peak Recovery, we explore the fascinating world of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy with Kari Hall from Revive Counseling & Consulting. Kari discusses the numerous benefits of EMDR, the science behind how it works, and shares her personal journey of overcoming a traumatic childhood. This episode provides a comprehensive introduction to EMDR and offers valuable insights for both therapists and individuals seeking healing from trauma. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the transformative potential of EMDR therapy.

In this compelling episode of Facing Addiction Podcast, we delve into the life of Marci Cagen, a woman whose journey through addiction and recovery offers profound insights into the power of vulnerability, empathy, and transformation. With more years in recovery than the age at which she began her sober journey, Marci's story is one of profound change and deep self-reflection. Marci speaks candidly about the depths of her addiction, including the incredibly difficult experiences of using drugs during her pregnancy and the dark places her addiction took her. Unlike many recovery stories where the turning point is an external event, Marci's moment of realization was deeply internal. As an empath, the profound loneliness and disconnection she felt from those around her was her own version of hell on earth. Despite numerous attempts to find her path to recovery in her early 20s, Marci's resilience and determination finally led her to a turning point where recovery "stuck." Now, with an incredible perspective on the process of healing, Marci dedicates her life to helping other women navigate the tumultuous journey of recovery. Her story is not just about overcoming addiction, but about addressing the emotional and psychological challenges that underpin it. Listeners will be moved by Marci's vulnerability as she shares her experiences and the lessons learned along the way. Her insights into empathy, the importance of connection, and the transformative power of understanding one's own emotions in recovery are particularly impactful. Marci's journey is a testament to the fact that recovery is not just about abstaining from substances but about finding a deeper connection to oneself and others. Tune in to this episode of Facing Addiction Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Marci Cagen, whose story illuminates the complexities of addiction and the beautiful possibilities of recovery.

In this deeply moving episode of Facing Addiction Podcast, we explore the harrowing and ultimately inspiring journey of Patt Ochoa. Born into an environment devoid of boundaries, with a father absent and a mother battling her own addiction, Patt's early life was marked by vulnerability and a lack of guidance. His descent into drug use was swift, leading him to the unforgiving streets of Skid Row. Here, Patt faced unimaginable hardships, from homelessness to engaging in survival sex work, culminating in a devastating experience of sexual assault that brought him to his lowest point. However, Patt's story is one of remarkable transformation. With the help of his mother and a community of individuals in recovery, Patt began the arduous process of rebuilding his life from the ground up. This episode not only follows Patt's journey out of addiction and homelessness but also delves into the ongoing challenges and victories of recovery. Patt's path to emotional sobriety, aided by therapy and a commitment to personal growth, highlights the importance of addressing the underlying emotional and psychological wounds of addiction. Listeners will be taken on an emotional rollercoaster, from the depths of despair to the heights of hope, as Patt shares his experiences with raw honesty and vulnerability. His story sheds light on the often overlooked aspects of recovery, such as the necessity of emotional healing and the power of human resilience. Join us for an unforgettable episode of Facing Addiction Podcast, where Patt Ochoa's journey reminds us that even in our darkest moments, transformation is possible, and a new beginning is always within reach.

In this gripping episode of Facing Addiction Podcast, we delve deep into the life of Anthony Tatum, a man whose journey from the challenging streets of Atlanta to over a decade of sobriety is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up with a burning desire to fit in, Anthony found himself caught in a cycle of risky behaviors from a young age. From petty theft to selling weed and eventually descending into the dangerous world of harder drugs, his life spiraled out of control, leading him through the dark corridors of addiction. But Anthony's story doesn't end there. After several attempts at rehabilitation, he finally entered long-term recovery in his 20s, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Now, with over ten years of sobriety under his belt, Anthony dedicates his life to helping others navigate the treacherous path of addiction and find hope on the other side. Join us as Anthony shares his raw and honest experiences, the battles he faced with addiction, and the powerful lessons learned along the way. His story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of recovery. Whether you're struggling with addiction, know someone who is, or simply seek to understand this complex issue better, Anthony's journey offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in to this episode of Facing Addiction Podcast and be part of a conversation that not only sheds light on the realities of addiction but also celebrates the possibility of recovery and the promise of a new beginning.

  In this profoundly inspiring episode of the Facing Addiction Podcast, we delve into the remarkable story of Kyle Sommers, a man who transformed his life from the depths of addiction and incarceration to become a beacon of hope and guidance as a drug and alcohol counselor in long-term recovery. Kyle's journey is one of immense challenges, introspection, and ultimately, redemption. Kyle shares candidly about his tumultuous past, marked by a vicious cycle of drug abuse and repeated stints in prison, a life once devoid of hope and marred by the shackles of addiction. He opens up about the pivotal moments that led to his awakening, the realization that he was on a path to self-destruction, and the decision to embark on a journey towards recovery and healing. Listeners will be taken on an emotional rollercoaster as Kyle recounts the obstacles he faced in breaking free from his past, the support systems that played a crucial role in his recovery, and the profound sense of purpose he found in helping others struggling with addiction. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, the possibility of change, and the importance of seeking help. Now, as a drug and alcohol counselor, Kyle dedicates his life to guiding others through their own battles with addiction, using his experiences to connect, inspire, and foster hope in those who feel lost. This episode not only highlights Kyle's transformation but also shines a light on the broader issues surrounding addiction, the criminal justice system, and the journey to recovery.

In Episode 29 of "Facing Addiction," we delve into the compelling story of Felix, a man who once found himself entangled in the web of addiction but has since turned his life into a beacon of hope for others. Born into the hardships that come with living below the poverty line, Felix's childhood was one of survival, not security. Raised by a single mother, he encountered the allure of drugs at a tender age, looking up to figures that would lead him down a treacherous path. These early choices cast long shadows over his future, as Felix found himself losing grip on the very things that meant the world to him – including his children. Addiction is often a story of repeated falls and the tough climb back up. Felix knows this cycle all too well. After several stints in recovery that didn't stick, something profound changed. Now in long-term recovery, Felix's life is a stark contrast to his past – a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the transformative power of hope and hard work. Today, Felix doesn't just live a beautiful life; he's on a mission to help others do the same. His experiences, once sources of pain, are now his tools to mentor, support, and inspire those who are walking the tightrope between relapse and recovery. Join us as we listen to Felix recount his harrowing yet uplifting journey, and how facing addiction head-on has led him to a place of leadership and service. His story is not just one of overcoming, but of giving back, showing us all that from the ashes of our greatest battles, we can rise and help others do the same. Tune in to "Facing Addiction" and bear witness to the raw, real, and ultimately redemptive narrative of Felix's life. This is an episode that promises not just to move you but offers a profound reminder of the enduring power of human transformation.

Welcome back to another episode of the Facing Addiction Podcast. Today, we are honored to have Jay Dow share his raw and riveting story. As a celebrated musician, Jay now travels the country, playing for those in the early stages of recovery, shedding light on the hope that lies ahead. However, Jay's past tells a story of immense struggle and pain. At the peak of his addiction, he found himself homeless and in such desperation that he resorted to drinking mouthwash and hairspray. From those dark depths to the stages where he now stands as an emblem of hope and recovery, Jay's journey is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the life-changing power of recovery. If you or someone you know is battling addiction, Jay's story serves as a powerful reminder that change is possible, even from the direst circumstances. Please "LIKE" and "SUBSCRIBE" to our channel for more compelling stories and resources to support you on your path to recovery.

Welcome back to another transformative episode of the Facing Addiction Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have Patrick Roland, better known as The Sparkle King, as our guest. His story is one of overcoming incredible odds, transitioning from a life marred by addiction and adversity to one filled with hope, wellness, and even a new career as a therapist. About Patrick Roland: Patrick Roland is an award-winning journalist, author, and editor with a rich background in mainstream media, specialty publications, and public relations. He resides in Phoenix, Arizona, and embraces his identity as a bi-polar, ex-drug addict, and former alcoholic widow. Patrick is sober today, a state of being he celebrates with gratitude, aiming to inspire others through sharing his experiences. His autobiography, Unpacked Sparkle, has been acclaimed for its depth and raw honesty, and he has even been featured on Oprah. In This Episode: Patrick shares about his difficult childhood rife with bullying and abuse. The harrowing experience of meth addiction and the turning points that led him to recovery. Patrick's journey toward becoming a therapist, focusing on helping others with similar challenges. Patrick hopes that by openly discussing his life's highs and lows, others will find the strength to navigate their own struggles. This is a conversation brimming with hope, courage, and firsthand insights into overcoming addiction. As always, thank you for tuning into the Facing Addiction Podcast. If you find this episode valuable, please subscribe, revuew, and share. We aim to build a community where people find the inspiration to transform their lives. Additional Resources: For more help and information on tackling addiction and mental health challenges, visit www.pinnaclepeakrecovery.com Don't forget to click that subscribe button for more life-changing stories of resilience and recovery.

Christin's story is one of despair, but also one of hope and transformation. Once a meth addict who resorted to men and selling drugs, Christin has faced the direst of circumstances including the loss of her home and being separated from her children. These challenges led her in and out of jail and treatment. However, Christin didn't let her past define her future. She is now in long-term recovery and is dedicating her life to helping others who are walking the same difficult path she once did. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with addiction, or for those who are looking to understand the complexities and challenges of overcoming it. Christin's resilience and strength serve as a beacon of hope for those who are still in the throes of their battle with addiction. Thank you for tuning into this enlightening episode of the Facing Addiction Podcast. If you find this episode valuable, please consider subscribing to our channel, and don't forget to share it with those who might benefit from hearing Christin's incredible story. For resources on addiction and recovery, check out the links below. www.pinnaclepeakrecovery.com 

Welcome to the newest episode of the Facing Addiction Podcast, where we uncover the real stories behind addiction, recovery, and transformation. In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, I sit down with the incredible Alejandra G, whose journey takes us from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the darkest corners of despair. Once a renowned shoe designer to the stars, Alejandra's life was spiraling out of control due to alcoholism. Her compelling story is one of a fall from grace that brought her to rock bottom but eventually led to a life filled with God, recovery, and a profound sense of freedom. Join us as we explore how she walked away from a glamorous lifestyle that was tearing her apart and found a path to healing in the field of behavioral health. Alejandra's story is an inspiring testament to the power of faith, the importance of self-discovery, and the unbreakable strength of the human spirit. Don't miss this powerful conversation that will leave you reflecting on the paths we choose and the incredible possibilities that lie within us all. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, this episode could be a beacon of hope.

Gene Braxton was not an ordinary soccer talent; he was a prodigy. As the first athlete to be drafted out of high school in Ohio - a feat later echoed by basketball giant LeBron James - he was destined for greatness. His soccer career, however, was a turbulent journey marked by flashes of brilliance and shadows of addiction. While his incredible skills on the pitch were undeniable, Braxton's off-field struggles began to overshadow his game. Traded often throughout his career due to issues stemming from addiction, he was never able to find a stable footing within any team. But it was in retirement that his life took a dramatic turn. As the structure of professional sports fell away, his addiction spiraled out of control. This ultimately led him down a path of criminality, culminating in numerous arrests and a prison sentence for identity theft. However, Gene Braxton's story does not end behind bars. After hitting rock bottom, he found the strength and resolve to turn his life around. Now in long-term recovery, Gene has been actively working to rebuild his life and create a positive impact in his community. In this episode, we take a closer look at Gene Braxton's life, the opportunities, the pitfalls, and the lessons that can be drawn from his story. Through interviews with former teammates, coaches, family members, and Gene himself, as well as a look at the broader issue of addiction within sports, 'The Gene Braxton Story' aims to shed light on the human side of the athletes we often place on pedestals. Join us for an emotional and eye-opening journey through the life of a man who had the world at his feet, but whose inner demons threatened to take it all away, and witness his inspiring path to recovery and redemption.  

Michael Marino, an alumnus of Arizona State University, shares his compelling story of transformation from a collegiate athlete engaged in the party lifestyle to a licensed therapist helping others in their journey toward recovery. During his time at ASU, Michael played both football and rugby. However, as he indulged in the party lifestyle, he faced a growing battle with addiction. Despite multiple attempts at sobriety, his life took a turn when he finally landed in a treatment center that provided him the tools and insights needed for long-term recovery.  In this episode, Michael talks candidly about his experiences and the struggles he faced. As a licensed therapist, he also provides an educated perspective on addiction and recovery, sharing the invaluable lessons he learned. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Michael Marino and his background as a collegiate athlete at ASU Exploration into the party lifestyle and its impact on his life and athletic performance Michael's personal battle with addiction and his multiple attempts at sobriety The turning point: The treatment center that changed his life The tools and strategies that Michael learned for long-term recovery Michael's transition to becoming a licensed therapist  The role of therapy and mental health support in recovery Insights and advice for those who may be facing similar challenges About Michael Marino: Michael Marino is a former football and rugby player at Arizona State University. After a personal battle with addiction, he found recovery and rebuilt his life. Today, as a licensed therapist, he dedicates his life to helping others on their path to recovery and wellness. Don't forget to subscribe to Facing Addiction Podcast for more in-depth interviews and insights. Join us as we explore the stories that inspire and educate. 

Welcome back to Facing Addiction Podcast! In today's episode, we are honored to have a conversation with Tom Fay, the heart and soul behind Gambit Recovery, a premier sober living organization that has touched and transformed countless lives.

Today, we sit down with Jessica DeSalvo, a fearless woman on a journey of long-term recovery from addiction, alcoholism, and codependency. But recovery is not the end of the road, and sometimes, it's just the beginning of a new set of challenges. Jessica's story is one of those.  They say life gets easier in recovery - but was it so for Jessica? Far from it. Despite embarking on the path to sobriety, she faced an enormous amount of trauma and tragedy. But rather than let it defeat her, Jessica chose to lean into these challenges and walk through them with determination, resilience, and, above all, grace. This episode is a deep dive into Jessica's inspiring story. It's about her ups and downs, the hurdles she's faced, and how she's managed to maintain her recovery through it all. Jessica's journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience in the face of adversity and offers hope for all those battling addiction and seeking a path towards recovery. Whether you're in recovery, know someone who is, or just want to understand the realities of this journey better, this episode will leave you with newfound insights and perspectives. Join us as we explore the many layers of addiction recovery through Jessica's extraordinary journey.  Remember to Like, Share, and Subscribe to our channel for more inspiring stories and expert insights into the journey of recovery from addiction.

We delve deep into Wade's turbulent journey through addiction, failed sobriety attempts, and unconventional paths to recovery. Wade's story is a stark reminder that the struggle against addiction is not a straight line; it's a winding road filled with pitfalls, relapses, and resilience. In our hour-long candid discussion, Wade sheds light on how he fell victim to drug abuse, the allure of the highs, and the crushing lows that eventually robbed him of his dreams. He then takes us through his numerous attempts at sobriety, embracing unorthodox methods, and how, in spite of numerous failed attempts, he never gave up hope. Finally, he opens up about his triumph over addiction, finding long-term recovery, and how our program played a vital role in his path towards sobriety. Wade's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of persistence, and the belief that it is never too late to change one's path. Join us as we venture into this compelling tale of struggle and redemption, hoping that Wade's story can inspire those battling similar demons. The path to recovery is never easy, but as Wade's story shows, it's absolutely possible. Tune in and witness how one person rose from the ashes of addiction, reclaiming not only his life but his dreams, and how you, too, can find hope in the darkest corners. Remember, you're not alone in this struggle. There's always help, there's always hope, and as Wade's story proves, there's always a way back.

Welcome back to another episode of the Facing Addiction podcast. Today, we're welcoming a special guest, Louis Coppelli, who is here to share his personal journey with addiction. In this episode, Louis speaks candidly about how his addiction took a hold of his life, slowly replacing his dreams and ambitions. It's a stark reminder of the power of addiction, but also a testament to Louis's resilience as he fought back. Through numerous attempts at recovery, Louis experienced the ups and downs that come with the process. It wasn't an overnight success, but with persistence, he finally found his footing on the path to sobriety. Just as he began to rebuild his life, Louis was faced with the unexpected passing of his mother. This heartbreaking event tested his resolve, but Louis remained committed to his sobriety and was able to be there for his mom to the end. Throughout our conversation, Louis shares the struggles and victories he's encountered along his journey, providing insight into the reality of recovery. His story is a lesson in resilience and serves as a reminder that recovery, while challenging, is always possible. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more personal stories about overcoming addiction. Together, we can shed light on this issue and support those on their own journey to recovery.

In this deeply moving episode, we welcome Johnny Martinez to share his incredible story of addiction, recovery, and transformation. Once entangled in gang activity and struggling with the weight of addiction, Johnny's life took a dramatic turn when he hit rock bottom and nearly ended his life. Now, he's an inspiring figure who travels the world to be of service in a 12-step program. He gives back to his community and is an advocate for harm reduction. As the founder of his own non-profit organization, Johnny is passionate about helping others find their path to healing and recovery. Join us as we delve into his powerful journey and learn valuable insights that may help others overcome their own struggles. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with a man who turned his life around and now dedicates his time to empowering others.

Welcome to Facing Addiction, where we dive deep into the stories of those who have battled addiction and emerged victorious. In today's episode, we sit down with Booker Boyton, a Detroit native whose journey took him from being a college athlete to multiple prison stints and homelessness. Now with 9 years of sobriety under his belt, Booker has transformed his life and is dedicated to helping others do the same. Booker shares his incredible story, shedding light on the challenges he faced and the turning point that led him to prioritize emotional sobriety. We discuss the importance of addressing the underlying emotional struggles that often contribute to addiction, and how doing so has been crucial to Booker's recovery and growth. Join us for an inspiring conversation that offers hope, practical advice, and valuable insights into the power of emotional sobriety in overcoming addiction.

In this powerful episode of Facing Addiction, we welcome Tawny Gamboa, a resilient individual who has triumphed over addiction through a unique blend of holistic and Native American healing practices. Tawny shares her emotional journey from overcoming childhood trauma to rediscovering her roots and embracing her Native American heritage. Through a variety of holistic modalities and indigenous wisdom, Tawny has found a path to healing and a deeper connection to herself and the world around her. Join us as we explore Tawny's inspiring story and delve into the powerful tools that have transformed her life, offering hope and guidance to others on their journey towards recovery.

In this eye-opening episode of Facing Addiction Podcast, we are honored to welcome Danny Habetyes, a man who has conquered the seemingly insurmountable challenges of addiction and has now been sober for 10 years. Danny shares his raw and powerful story of how addiction dragged him into the pits of hell, bringing him to the brink of suicide. As Danny opens up about his darkest moments and the turning points that saved him, you'll be inspired by his journey from the depths of despair to his incredible transformation into a successful corporate professional. We'll delve into the lessons he's learned along the way, the strategies that have helped him maintain his sobriety, and how he's managed to rebuild his life from the ground up. This emotional and uplifting episode serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of resilience. It's a must-listen for anyone impacted by addiction, seeking hope and motivation in their own journey towards recovery. Don't miss Danny's incredible story - tune in now and find the inspiration you need to face your own challenges head-on.

In this podcast episode, we hear the inspiring story of Mike Kibler, who saved my life. Mike Kibler, a recovering addict and alcoholic, shares his experience, strength, and hope. He talks about his own struggles with addiction and how he found his way to recovery. Mike also shares his insights on how addiction affects people and how the 12-step program can help them overcome it. As the conversation unfolds, we look at how our paths intersected and how Mike made a drastic impact on my life. Through this podcast episode, we learn about the transformative power of the 12-step program and how it can help people overcome addiction and find a new way of life. We also hear a powerful story of kindness and compassion, as Mike Kibler helps someone in need and inspires them to keep going on their journey of recovery.

Greg Zaroslinksi sits down with us to discuss his journey with alcoholism and recovery. Addiction does not discriminate and can impact people of all walks of life. Greg is a successful entrepreneur and his alcoholism did not impact him until later on in life. He attributes his problem to ego and has a great perspective on ego as a whole.

On this episode I sit down with a good friend of mine, Marcus Clark. Marcus and I have been in recovery together for the last decade. Marcus has a unique perspective on recovery and delivers so many good nuggets to take with you through out this episode. 

We sit down with the lone survivor of the Granite Mountain Hotshots, Brendan Mcdonough. Brendan has an incredible story of loss and triumph. Brendan struggling with addiction and alcoholism on and off throughout his life and now uses his experience to help others.

On the Season 2 premiere, I sit down with Garrett Deetz, who once upon a time was a high ranking gang member in the state of Arizona. He was in the grips of drug addiction and spent over 20 years in prison. Garrett now dedicates his life to helping others have the same opportunities that he did. 

Apologies for the technical difficulty, the rough draft was uploaded yesterday. Season 1 finale does not disappoint! We sit down with Dr. Adam McLean with guest house to discuss a variety of topics. Sticking to the theme of season 1 we touch on harm reduction, boundaries and where they coexist. Adam also opens up and talks about his experience in addiction, recovery, and relapse. Dr. McLean went from high school drop out to getting his doctorate in psychology!

Season 1 finale does not disappoint! We sit down with Dr. Adam McLean with guest house to discuss a variety of topics. Sticking to the theme of season 1 we touch on harm reduction, boundaries and where they coexist. Adam also opens up and talks about his experience in addiction, recovery, and relapse. Dr. McLean went from high school drop out to getting his doctorate in psychology!

Our CEO, Tyler Tisdale and Clinical Director, Steve Weiss talk about Steve's career in behavioral health, harm reduction, boundaries, and where those two might co-exist.

I sit down with Psychologist Dr. Bob Connolly Founder of Vecktr Group. Vecktr Group does interventions and helps families coordinate care. Dr. Bob has a unique approach on interventions with creative solutions. 

I sit down with one of our Primary Therapist, Kim Boardman. Kim is a co-founder of Shot in the Dark. Shot in the Dark is a harm reduction organization located in Arizona.

On this episode we sit down with Haley Coles, Founder of Sonoran Prevention Works. Since 2011, Sonoran Prevention Works has been working to improve the lives of people who use drugs through street-based outreach, organizational capacity building, and state-wide advocacy work. 

I sit down with Alexa Morgenroth from Not My Kid to discuss the work they are doing teaching both parents and children healthy boundaries. 

I sit down with 5 time Emmy award winning journalist, Brandon Lee. Brandon shares his personal battle with addiction for an insight of the lows it can take us. We dive into what he is doing now in recovery and where boundaries and harm reduction can meet. 

Tyler Tisdale sits down with Kim Humphreys, CEO of Parents of Addicted Loved Ones to discuss healthy boundaries when dealing with an addiction in the family. 

Facing Addiction season premiere we will be exploring boundaries and harm reduction. Some episodes will be on or the other, but I want to find a common ground where both can live. Being passoniate about both topics, I am having a hard time finding where they both meet. I seek out experts on the topic and interview them on Season 1 of Facing Addiction.