The 12th Step Podcast

Recovery isn't just about stopping a behavior—it's about building a new way of life. In this episode of 12th Step Podcast, we explore the essential tools for lasting recovery, how to stay out of your inner circle of destructive habits, and the deeper truths addiction may be hiding. Join us as we unpack these powerful topics and offer real strategies for breaking free and staying free.

Are you just visiting recovery, or are you truly in it for the long haul? In this episode of 12th Step Podcast, we explore why being a tourist in recovery never works, how fear holds us back from real healing, and whether working the steps actually makes a difference. Join us as we break down these crucial recovery topics and share insights on what it takes to move beyond the surface and into lasting change.

Join us on 12th Step Podcast as we break down the first three of nine key recovery topics we've encountered while mentoring. We'll discuss the challenge of surrendering ego to God's will, explore whether the 9th Step Promise truly comes to life, and share practical insights on maintaining long-term recovery. Tune in for an honest, experience-driven conversation about what it takes to stay on the path of healing and growth.

In this episode of the 12th Step Podcast, we explore the key differences between rules and principles and how they shape your recovery journey. Are you just following a set of rules, or are you embracing the deeper principles behind them? Join us as we discuss how understanding this distinction can strengthen your commitment, foster personal growth, and lead to lasting change.

In this episode of the 12th Step Podcast, we tackle a powerful listener question: Can someone struggling with sexual addiction truly love their partner? Is love and addiction at odds, or can they coexist? Join us as we explore the complexities of addiction, its impact on relationships, and what true love looks like in the context of recovery.

In this episode of the 12th Step Podcast, we explore what happens when you get out of the practice of recovery. How does stepping away from daily routines, meetings, and principles impact your journey? Can slipping out of practice lead to bigger challenges? Join us as we discuss the importance of consistency, recognizing warning signs, and finding your way back to a strong recovery foundation.

In this episode of the 12th Step Podcast, Daniel shares a powerful experience where he revisited his first step while mentoring others. Reflecting on this moment, Daniel opens up about how it reignited his sense of gratitude for the recovery journey. Join us as we dive deep into the importance of gratitude in healing, growth, and maintaining sobriety. Together, we'll explore how embracing gratitude can transform our perspectives and strengthen our commitment to recovery. Take a moment to reflect on your own journey—this episode is a reminder of the gifts that come with recovery.

In this episode of the 12th Step Podcast, we address a heartfelt email from one of our listeners who is courageously sharing their struggle with addiction to pornography. Together, we explore how life's crises and challenges can fuel our addictions, making the journey to recovery even more daunting. But hope is never out of reach. We'll discuss practical steps, insights from the 12-step journey, and ways to find strength and healing—even in the most difficult times. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your addiction or life's pressures, this episode is for you. You're not alone—and recovery is possible. Tune in and join the conversation.

In this episode of the 12th Step Podcast, we unpack a listener's email about discovering joy in the process of recovery. How can we embrace the journey, even when it feels challenging? Join us as we explore the power of gratitude, personal growth, and finding moments of joy along the way. This uplifting conversation is sure to inspire and encourage anyone on the path to healing.

In this episode of the 12th Step Podcast, we dive into a thought-provoking listener email about implementing first-order changes in recovery. What are they, how do they work, and why are they often the first steps toward meaningful growth? Join us as we explore practical insights, personal experiences, and strategies for making small changes that lead to big transformations on the road to recovery. Don't miss this heartfelt and informative conversation!

Join us on the 12th Step Podcast as we explore the hidden payoffs of continuing addictive behaviors. In this thought-provoking episode, we discuss the reasons why we might cling to unhealthy habits, even when we know they're harmful. Tune in to gain insights into the psychological rewards of addiction and discover how understanding these payoffs can be the first step toward meaningful change and recovery

Join the 12th Step Podcast for an impactful episode where we share a heartfelt email from one of our listeners who, though in recovery, is grappling with the decision to disclose their past addiction. As they reach out for guidance, we delve into the nuances of transparency, trust, and the personal journey of recovery. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion filled with empathy, insight, and advice for anyone facing similar crossroads on their path to healing and growth.

Join the 12th Step Podcast for an inspiring episode as we share a heartfelt listener email filled with gratitude for the advice they received in a previous episode. Tune in to hear about the incredible transformation in this listener's life, and how their journey took a powerful turn for the better. It's a story of hope, resilience, and recovery you won't want to miss!

This week on the 12th Step Podcast, as the holiday season approaches, we explore essential strategies to help you stay grounded in your recovery. Tune in for practical tips to make your holidays safe, stress-free, and centered on your well-being. Don't let the festivities derail your progress—join us and prepare for a balanced and peaceful holiday season!

In this enlightening episode of the 12th Step Podcast, we tackle the concept of "False Pleasures Do Not Equal Well-Being." Join us as we explore how temporary thrills and superficial indulgences can mask deeper issues, and why true well-being comes from addressing underlying needs and cultivating lasting fulfillment. Tune in for insightful discussions and practical advice on finding genuine happiness beyond fleeting pleasures.

In this episode, we continue our discussion from last time about the powerful concept of 90 seconds. We introduce the tool "Stop, Drop, and Breathe," a simple yet effective exercise that you can use during that critical 90-second window to help with your recovery. Learn how pausing, grounding yourself, and taking a mindful breath can make a significant difference in managing overwhelming emotions and stress. Tune in for practical tips on using this technique to support your journey to well-being.

In this episode of the 12th Step Podcast, discover how a 90-second brain hack can break the chains of addiction. Inspired by Jill Bolte Taylor's My Stroke of Insight, we reveal the secret to taking control of your emotions and reclaiming your life. Don't miss this game-changing insight!

Have you ever been asked if you're in a good or bad place? In this episode, we explore a fresh recovery concept: "I'm in a new space." Join us as we dive into the nuances of this idea, examining how it shifts our perspective on personal growth and recovery. Tune in for insightful discussions and practical tips on embracing your new space and making it a catalyst for positive change. Don't miss out on this transformative conversation!

In this episode, we dive into Step 11 and discuss ways to improve conscious contact with your higher power. We explore practical tips and spiritual practices to enhance your connection. Plus, we tackle a common question: How can you tell if the guidance you're receiving is truly from your higher power or just your own thoughts? Tune in for insights and advice on deepening your spiritual journey.

Join us as we discuss the concept of The King vs. The Fool and how it applies to our personal growth and recovery. Explore how often we shame ourselves for our actions instead of viewing them as valuable learning experiences. We'll delve into the importance of encouraging our inner king to rise to the occasion, rather than letting the fool take the lead. Tune in for insights on turning mistakes into stepping stones on your journey to recovery.

In this episode, we respond to a listener's email about the dangers of staggered disclosures. We discuss the difficulties a spouse faces in recovering from trauma caused by delayed honesty and the risks to your own healing process when the truth is withheld. Tune in to learn why complete transparency is crucial for building trust and fostering recovery in relationships.

In this episode, we address a heartfelt email from a listener who is navigating the difficult waters of addiction recovery while facing a partner's refusal to seek help. We discuss strategies for coping with this challenging situation, offer support and advice, and explore ways to stay strong and focused on your own recovery journey when a loved one is not ready to take that step. Join us for an honest conversation about love, struggle, and the path to healing.

Do annual cycles exist? Do you have annual cycles? Join us as we explore this topic with one of our listeners who shares their personal experiences and insights. Discover how seasons and yearly patterns might be shaping your life. Don't miss this fascinating conversation!

We were deeply moved by an email we received this week from one of our listeners, expressing gratitude for our podcast's impact on the recovery community. Tune in as we share this heartfelt message and respond on our latest episode. Your support means everything to us!

This episode, we continue on our journey with Isaac, as he courageously shares his experiences and triumphs on the road to recovery. In this first installment of his story, we'll hear about the struggles he faced, the pivotal moments of realization, and the initial steps he took towards a brighter future. Join us as we dive into Isaac's inspiring narrative, filled with resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of a life free from addiction. Stay tuned for an uplifting tale of redemption and transformation that will leave you feeling empowered and hopeful.

This episode, we embark on a compelling journey with Isaac, as he courageously shares his experiences and triumphs on the road to recovery. In this first installment of his story, we'll hear about the struggles he faced, the pivotal moments of realization, and the initial steps he took towards a brighter future. Join us as we dive into Isaac's inspiring narrative, filled with resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of a life free from addiction. Stay tuned for an uplifting tale of redemption and transformation that will leave you feeling empowered and hopeful.

In this week's episode, we delve into the challenging intersection of separation and recovery. Our listener shares their struggle with navigating a recent separation while staying committed to their journey of healing. Tune in as we explore coping strategies, offer insights, and provide support for those facing similar challenges. Together, let's shed light on this often-overlooked aspect of recovery and find strength in community. Join us as we embark on this journey of growth and resilience.

In this week's episode, we're tackling the tough topic of breaking cycles. Whether it's negative thinking, self-doubt, or unhealthy habits, we've all been there. Join us as we explore actionable strategies and personal insights to help you break free from those repetitive patterns. It's time to take charge and pave a new path forward.

In this episode, we delve into the critical significance of taking that crucial first step on the road to recovery. We'll explore why this initial action is pivotal, drawing on insights from listener experiences and expert perspectives. Join us as we uncover the transformative power of embracing that first step towards healing and growth.

In this episode, we delve into the perilous realm of negative self-talk, exploring its profound impact on mental health and personal growth. Through dissecting a listeners email, we unravel the dangers and damages wrought by this internal dialogue. Join us as we navigate strategies to combat and conquer the insidious influence of negative self-talk, fostering a healthier and more empowered mindset.

This episode is inspired by a heartfelt email from one of our listeners about the challenges of surrendering one's will to their higher power. It's a topic that resonates deeply with many on the journey to recovery and spiritual growth. Join us as we explore the complexities of this process, sharing personal insights, struggles, and moments of grace. Whether you're wrestling with surrender or seeking guidance, this episode offers a safe space for reflection and connection. Tune in as we navigate the beautiful, sometimes bumpy road to surrendering to our higher power.

This week, we're tackling a listener's email about addiction and the havoc it wreaks in our lives. Addiction's grip can lead us down turbulent paths, affecting not just us but those around us too. Join us as we dive into personal stories, insights, and the journey to recovery. Tune in for a candid discussion on finding hope, community support, and the transformative power of healing from addiction.

In this episode, we tackle a listener's question: "How do I overcome my shame?" Join us for a quick, insightful exploration into overcoming shame in recovery. We'll share stories, practical strategies, and the transformative power of self-compassion. Discover a path to healing and a shame-free future. Tune in now and let's take this step together!

Hey listeners!

In this episode, we share a poignant email from a concerned mom addressing her son's struggle with sexual addiction, exploring the harsh realities her family faces within their community. Tune in for a compassionate exploration of addiction, fostering empathy, and breaking down barriers. 

Technology's purpose is to improve the quality of life for humanity. But unfortunately, in many ways it has provided unintended consequences, for example, serving as stimuli for sex addiction. Dr. Patrick Carnes says that as technologies evolve, we must remain vigilant about this issue, especially when it comes to adolescents. But can vigilance and treatment practices evolve just as rapidly as technology?

Do you find yourself in a situation where family events are uncomfortable due to yoru addiction? Or do you find yourself in  situation that because of yoru addiction and choices that you're not allowed to attend. Tune in to this episode where our very own Daniel opens up about his experiences with this topic, how he handle things, and what our advice to you is. 

Tune in as we go over an email from one of our listeners. In this episode we address the listerners questions, thoughts, and concerns regarding how they struggle with their addiction.

Tune in as we go over an email from one of our listeners. In this episode we address the listerners questions, thoughts, and concerns regarding if they are an addict.

A sponsor is a mentor or a guide that is there to help you and they themselves have been in recovery and have worked through the steps. However, what happens when you are struggling to work with your sponsor? We dive into that very subject thanks to a listener email. Tune in to this episode to find what we have to say regarding this topic.

What does sobriety look like for a sex addict? Though sobriety can take on many forms depending on yoru circumstances, the input from your partner, therapist, and more. Tune in as we cover this great question sent in by one of our listeners. 

Many individuals grapple with overwhelming emotions and memories in the face of addiction recovery. Embracing the present moment through practicing mindfulness offers a beacon of hope. Mindfulness allows individuals to anchor themselves, providing clarity and calm amidst the recovery storm. Tune as we discuss why being present is an important part of yoru recovery.

Tune in as we talk about multiple addictions that is referred to as “co-occurring addictions” or “cross addictions”. And it's crucial they be addressed for anyone who is wanting long-term health and recovery. Many people who experience addiction struggle with other addictive processes. This process known as “switching addictions” - attempts to stop one addiction results in an increase in addictive use of another substance or behaviour such as disordered eating or excessive internet use increasing when substance use ends. 

As we fight through layers of judgment and trauma, our "recovery" is regaining our true selves. The purpose of recovery is to no longer be a copy of someone else's vision. And how do we accomplish this? By intentionally creating expert systems to help you along the way. Tune in to this epeisode as we cover the last six expert systems, Intuition, Spirituality, Perspective, Consciousness, Compassion, and Mindfulness.

As we fight through layers of judgment and trauma, our "recovery" is regaining our true selves. The purpose of recovery is to no longer be a copy of someone else's vision. And how do we accomplish this? By intentionally creating expert systems to help you along the way. Tune in to this epeisode as we cover the first six expert systems, Intention, Self-care, Accountability, Study, Reflection, & Recovery Support.

There are times when we find ourselves facing a new oppertunity, but we fear that our addiction will return. Because the new oppertunity runs close to how we once acted when we were deep in our addiction. In this episode we will discuss the topic of facing our fears in recovery as these opptunities arise. 

In this episode we break down the concerns of one of our listeners in regard to their worries about recovery burn out. Is it real or is it a sign that you have reached a pivotal point in your recovery.

In this episode we will be discussing a topic sent in by one of our listeners regarding what books and resources to read and use in recovery. Tune in as we break down the elements of this topic and provides answers and resources that will add in your recovery.

If you think you might be struggling with sex or pornography addiction, seeking out a therapist is a wonderful way to care for yourself. Many sex addicts and their partners say they have been to therapy, but it has not been helpful. Tune in to this episode to find out what we have to say on the topic.

In most cases, ritualized behaviors are unconscious—that is, an addict may have no idea why they do things a certain way, or that these patterns even exist. When you change your rituals, you change your life. We all have unhealthy habits and behaviors that we indulge in from time to time. They seem harmless. However, awareness of these rituals are critical. Tune in to find out what we have to say about this topic. 

Join us as we talk about how your internal focus and gratitude can affect your recovery. This key concept can help you daily daily as you shift your external focus on things and those around you toward an inner focus that heps you to find peace and acceptance.