Recovery Road

This week, Merrit is joined by Steve Filson. As an ex-cop, Steve is combatting the drug crisis using his previous investigative knowledge and will continue to help educate communities on how to get involved.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined again by Diane Urban, founder of APALD, who is sharing what is happening soon with the organization. As they continue to inform others of the Fentanyl crisis, Diane and Merrit team up to talk about the future of rallies.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit is mad, and he is joining in the fight against Snapchat. As drugs are spreading like wildfire through this social media site, Merrit is bringing insight to people on how dealers are utilizing this platform.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is bringing some inspiration with guest Matt Scoletti. Matt went from addiction to 5 years of sobriety and in the meantime, became a champion athlete, Ironman, and American Ninja Warrior. His story will motivate you to spend your time wisely through recovery.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is going back to his roots as he welcomes Amy Smith as they chat about how AA saved her life. Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined by a Gary Truce as they chat about their relationship with Gary as his mentor and how important it is to have the support of others. Gary also talks about his new best-selling book "Voices on Visions" which is available on Amazon.com.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit is having a "MUST LISTEN" conversation with Ed Bisch. After losing his son to Oxycontin, Ed has become a lead activist in combatting Purdue Pharma. The fight is still going and he is spreading the word to help save communities. Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined by best-selling author and writing coach Cori Wamsley to chat about the process of telling your story and putting it into a book. From organizing the details to marketing, Cori is here to help show you how important a personal experience is.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined by Anthony Rizzuto to take an honest look at why communities and families are in denial regarding the drug crisis.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined by Ed Kobilis. After losing his son to Fentanyl, Ed has made it his purpose to educate the public on the dangers of Fentanyl. As one of the Founders of the Fentanyl Awareness Coalition, he stresses that education is the key to advocacy and saving lives.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit brings back April Babcock to discuss what's coming up in 2022 for advocacy. After losing her son Austin to Fentanyl, she has been a major player in the fight against the fentanyl crisis and she isn't done yet!Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

2021 is coming to a close and we are ready to welcome 2022! Tune in as Merrit reviews the highlights, stories, and information that he has brought to you during the 1st year of Recovery Road!Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined by Julie LeFrance who previously made the decision to get sober, yet years later, lost her daughter to fentanyl.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined by Sharon Marshal to discuss the importance of mental health and seeking help before it's too late.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is solo and reflecting not only on the stories he has shared, but also how to support your kids in a way that allows them to grow, open up and hopefully avoid harmful decisions.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit speaks with Tammy Plaksis about the loss of her son Dylan from fentanyl. With the dealer, who is still on the run, Tammy explains how she handles life while still searching for answers and justice.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined by podcast producer and BE the Voice Network founder Jess Branas to encourage you to tell your stories. As they chat, it becomes apparent that nothing can be more powerful than using your voice to help others.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

More and more kids are struggling with mental health issues and later losing their lives. This week, Merrit is joined by Lynette Roach as they chat about the loss of her son Dallas and what needs to change before states such as anxiety or stress lead to a drug.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined by Deborah Houghton and her husband George, as they chat about the loss of their son Chris. Showing no signs of substance abuse, Chris was another tragic case of Fentanyl murders that are plaguing the US.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit is flying solo and bringing attention to what matters. Reflecting on his past few months covering those who lost a child to Fentanyl, it's time that people start speaking the hard truth.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, personal trainer, chiropractor and now, bestselling author, Cynthia Hey joins Merrit to talk about her newly released book "Soft Health". She is bringing exercise and nutrition in an easy read to everyone, and they discuss how important these new healthy habits are for those in recovery.To get your copy of Soft Health please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Soft-Health-handbook-motivated-workouts/dp/B09GS4Z1GTPurchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit is joined by Geralyn Vasquez who, after the loss of her son Jacob, is urging school districts to become more informed regarding fentanyl. Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

Before committing to sobriety, Dr. KJ Foster has no idea how much she would accomplish in the following years. Now a Family Recovery & Relapse Prevention Expert, Best-selling Author, and much more, she joins Merrit for an eye opening conversation. Not only is Dr. Foster an example of how one decision initiates infinite opportunities, but also the importance of letting go of shame during the road to recovery.For Dr. Foster's books go to: amazon.comFor more information on Dr. Foster visit: drkjfoster.orgPurchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is going solo and wants to chat with all of you regarding what he has learned over the past few months while doing his special fentanyl murders episodes. He is about to get candid and real.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit speaks with Fiona Firine, who lost Cameron after a relapse. What makes this story special is that after Cameron's parents passed, Fiona embrace him, and cared for him like he was her son. But as this episode shows you, people care and if you've lost someone to a substance, you too need to practice self-care in order to heal.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit is joined by not one, but two guests. Roberta Rodriguez and her ex-husband Derek Reyes lost their son to Fentanyl laced cocaine. What is special about this episode is that it shows how important it is for people to come together, no matter their previous situation, to heal after the loss of a loved one.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit welcomes Cammi Velci who lost her son Emilio, after 1 pill. It started with wisdom tooth pain that led to a Percocet which was actually Fentanyl. So in this episode, they delve deep into the role insurance companies should play regarding coverage.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week, Merrit is joined by Pam Popper, an internationally recognized expert on nutrition, medicine and health; and the founder and Executive Director of Wellness Forum Health. Pam has been featured in many widely distributed documentaries, including Processed People and Making a Killing, and appeared in the acclaimed documentary Forks Over Knives. Tune in as they chat about how little we know about good nutrition, its benefits, and why the medical field lacks in their attention to this topic. Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit is joined by April Babcock as they chat about the loss of her son Austin, and how she could see his downfall from start to finish. They also delve deep into the ways in which school districts and the court system set people up for failure instead of helping them.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit is joined by Michelle Cameron who lost her two brothers this year. They are bringing to light the ever-growing Fentanyl problem and how no matter how strong a family is, experiences of an individual make a huge impact on emotional wellness and how one tends to deal with them.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit is joined by Andrea Sommerfeld Lee, who is sharing the story of her daughter Paige who, back and forth with addiction and rehab, lost her life to fentanyl. Plus, they discuss the role that treatment centers play in utilizing dangerous replacement drugs instead of non-narcotic therapies.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branashttp://www.branasenterprises.com

This week Merrit is joined by Lisa Cude, who is sharing the story of her son Jordan, as she discusses how prescription drugs led him down the path to street drug use before he lost his life to fentanyl.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week Merrit is joined by Annie Hernandez as she shares the story of her son, and how his addiction started after receiving pain therapy after an accident. Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week Merrit is joined by Angela James and Tanja Jacobs. As mothers who lost their kids, they show the importance of connection and support with others that have had similar experiences. Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week Merrit is joined by Laura Didier for an important conversation that every parent should hear. Her son Zach had no substance abuse background, however, when he decided to experiment with Percocet for the first time, he was given Fentanyl and sadly lost his life. Tune in as they discuss her story and the problem that social media plays in connecting kids with drugs.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week, Merrit is joined by Velvet Aguirre who is sharing her gripping story. This mother's tale about the death of her son Ivan leads to the question, when it comes to Universities, who is responsible for what occurs on campus?Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week, Merrit is joined by Penny Stringfield for an eye-opening conversation. From Community Activist to serving on Senator Fred Akshar's Heroin Stakeholders Committee, Penny shares her experience in working with youth and the ongoing stigma of addiction.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week, Merrit is joined by Amanda Faith for one of the most important messages for parents to hear. After losing her son Luca, the youngest fentanyl poisoning victim in the country, she has been sharing his story along with stories from other mothers who have lost theirs. Creating the Faces of Fentanyl, Amanda is hoping to end the stigma surrounding drug use.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

It's time to join the community and raise awareness. This week, Merrit is joined by Diane Urban and Cathy Lawley, Co-Founders and Presidents of the Association of People Against Lethal Drugs. They are sharing their stories of their sons' passings when they were unknowingly given a lethal synthetic drug that killed them instantly - Carfentanil and Fentanyl. Now they are bringing awareness to many with APALD- Association of People Against Lethal Drugs.For more information, please visit: apald.netPurchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week Merrit is on a health and nutrition kick! Tune in as he is joined by Sanjeev Javia, CEO/Founder of Javia Wellness Group which developed PRoZE Performance Nutrition, a performance nutrition company that focuses on nature based products for Sleep, Pain, Immunity, Focus, and Emotional Balance. From top athletes to the average person looking to live a healthier life, Sanjeev and Merrit have an in-depth conversation on the benefits of natural remedies that you can use as you continue on your recovery journey. Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week Merrit is joined by Mental Health Counselor Fred Doulton for an important conversation. Fred believes that a key to addressing addictions, relationships, mental well-being and broader life issues, is to find one's purpose and meaning in life, as well as to develop one's emotional literacy and to identify and address personal grief and trauma issues.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week Merrit is joined by Jill Lloyd, a CASAC and Professor to talk about how trauma and substance abuse are intertwined, how schools can educate the youth on substance abuse, and the numbing of society.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week, Merrit is joined by Gigi Langer, Ph.D. and author of "Worry Less Now" for an amazing conversation on how to find peace and clarity, and most importantly, stop worrying. She opens up about how she was a prisoner of her worries who used alcohol and romance to soothe herself. Now after 30 years sober, she is giving you her tools on how to overcome your stress and anxiety. Find “50 Ways to Worry Less Now: Reject Negative Thinking To Find Peace, Clarity, And Connection" at: www.gigilanger.com or www.amazon.comPurchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

Addiction and mental health issues go hand in hand and this week, Merrit is diving deep into the mind with Addiction Expert Dr. Robb Kelly. From his personal story to helping the addict step out of their disease and into a solution, Dr. Robb talks with Merrit about how to reach sobriety and live in sustained recovery through evidence-based modalities and a genuine therapeutic alliance.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

Having faith and purpose disrupts all fear. Join Merrit as he welcomes Michael Hoffner, co-founder and director of the Community Growth Center and author of the book "God's Presence in the Present: Contemplative Prayer and the Healing Process." Tune in as they discuss how purpose and calling is the bridge to mental health, personal development and spiritual growth.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

Even social or casual drinkers can spiral out of control. No matter who you are, it's important to know your triggers. This week Jess Branas, host of the Drinks with Jess podcast and 2x bestselling author joins Merrit to explain how she has learned hers and the importance of starting your day with purpose, even amid cravings.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comListen to the Drinks with Jess Podcast on all of your favorite platforms.Find Jess' books "Seeking Her, Knowing You" and "Zero to Ninety" on: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

This week, Merrit is joined by P. Casey Arrillaga, LCSW and host of the "Addiction and the Family" podcast, as they discuss how addiction is not just about one person, it affects everyone. But with challenges, comes opportunity with the help of open and honest communication. To connect with Casey via Twitter: @addictionfamilyFind the "Addiction and the Family Podcasts on all your favorite platformsPurchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

There is help out there and this week, Merrit is joined by Bobby Hartmann. Operating 7 recovery houses for men and 4 for women, he has taken his own experience of the recovery journey and recovery houses to serve others. Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comTo connect with Bobby please visit: mainstreamhouse.orgHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

Really getting to know yourself takes time. This week, Merrit is joined by therapist Briana Manning for an honest and eye opening chat on self-disclosure and how it will guide you on your journey to wellness and recovery.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comTo connect with Briana, please visit: psychologytoday.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

Mental Health Counselor, Rehabilitiation Counselor and School Counselor, Danielle Aris, joins Merrit for an important conversation. This week they tackle the topic of wellness, mental health, and the barriers that families face in getting help across all ages and cultures.Purchase a copy of Merrit's book "Lost Innocence" by visiting: amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas

Mental and Physical wellness are essential parts of our lives. This week, Merrit teams up with Mitch Schuckman, otherwise known as Mediocre Mitch, who has tried and will try almost any wellness activity! From triathlons to Sudoku puzzles and host of the Meet Mediocrity podcast, his journey is one that will inspire you.To listen to Meet Mediocrity go to: meetmediocrity.comFind Merrit's book, "Lost Innocence" on Amazon.comHosted by: Merrit HartblayExecutive Producer: Jess Branas"Recovery Road" is a Branas Enterprises production.Distributed by: Be the Voice Podcast NetworkVisit us at: branasenterprises.comFollow us on Facebook/Instagram/Twitter/TikTok: branasent