Recovery Is Possible

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

Mark Pfetzer from Guardian Initiatives was previously on this show and discussed plans to cross the Atlantic Ocean in order to raise awareness about suicide. Mark and his team completed the trip and shares what this experience was like. www.row3000.com Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

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

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

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

We spend a lot of time discussing what it takes to get into recovery, however, today's guest discusses what employers can do to assist the employees returning to work after treatment. This is a discussion few people have in the recovery world, and I know you will gain insight into the "other side" of recovery and learn tools you can use to help those who are beginning the recovery process. Eric Kreitz Leadership Coach Renovium Leadership 919-802-2681 Eric@renoviumleadership.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  

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

We can stay sober in the midst of tragedy; and in this episode, I discuss how it is important that we help those that are also suffering the tragedy we are experiencing. Using only makes the problem worse, and then you become part of the problem. We want to be part of the solution, and through remaining focused on a few basic principles and service, we can. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/ Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger

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

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

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

John Monaghan is a retired Chief of Police who now works in mental health, resilience, and Post Traumatic Growth. In this episode we discuss how to help people turn their struggle into strength, especially when it comes to addiction. John brings home the point, "Don't be afraid to ask for help, it is the most courageous thing you can do". You can also reach out to John on Facebook and Instagram at JohnMonaghanIII as well as his website: DeepBlueCompass 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

Hilary Phelps discusses the benefits of coaching in regard to wellness and recovery. Hilary has an enormous amount of experience with recovery and discusses the unique challenges, expectations, and responsibilities they face on a daily basis. Hilary also discusses her new coaching platform she launched this year. hilaryphelps.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

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

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

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

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

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

People, Places, Things, and Situations can sap our energy and put us on the path to a relapse if we are not careful. We must remain balanced in our energy levels, but life throws us "curve balls" and this is sometimes easier said than done. In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss tools you can use to manage your energy and help prevent a host of problems. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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  

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  

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  

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/

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/  

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/  

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/    

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/    

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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