The Recovered Life Show

On this episode of the Recovered Life Show, Stephanie lays it all out—the wreckage, the hustle, and the fight to come back from it all. What started with prescription painkillers slid into heroin. From there, things unraveled fast: shoplifting to survive, broken connections, waking up every day in survival mode, chasing the next high.Recovered Life is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.But this isn't just a story about the fall. It's about the moment she got honest with herself and decided to do something different. Stephanie talks about the messy, uncomfortable road to getting clean—including her time in rehab and the complicated hope that came with starting methadone treatment.No sugarcoating. No clichés. Just a real conversation about what it takes to pull yourself out and build something better.If you've ever wondered what recovery actually looks like behind the scenes—or needed proof that change is possible—this one's for you. Ad Disclaimer: You still have to do the work to stay sober, even while using the mug. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.recoveredlife.tvWhat happens when the dust of early recovery settles? When the chaos quiets and you're left with yourself—sober, awake, and wondering: Now what?In this powerful After the Show episode, psychotherapist Hannah Bernstein joins Damon Frank for a heart-opening conversation about what it really means to heal from trauma.

In this episode of The Recovered Life Show, host Damon Frank sits down with psychotherapist Hannah Bernstein to explore the powerful connection between trauma and addiction. They dive into:* How unresolved emotional pain drives addictive behaviors* What it really means to heal without numbing out* Practical tools for facing fear, staying present, and moving forward in recoveryWhether you're just starting out or deep into your recovery journey, this conversation offers real insights and support for healing at the root.Recovered Life is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

In a world that often feels insurmountable, Tim Lineaweaver's story reminds us that hope and redemption are always within reach. His journey through addiction and into sobriety is a testament to the transformative power of recovery.Tim Lineaweaver's life was overshadowed by addiction to alcohol and cocaine from an early age. Growing up in an alcoholic household, he had his first blackout at just 18, which marked the beginning of a relentless cycle. His addiction took him to places he never thought he would go, stripping him of his dignity, family, and sense of self. Yet, in the depths of despair, Tim found a spark of hope one fateful day after his daughter's christening, which propelled him to seek help. With the support of therapy, group sessions, and a commitment to change, he embarked on a grueling but fruitful recovery journey.Recovered Life is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.The initial month of sobriety was starkly challenging for Tim. He described it as a “rock fight,” filled with emotional turmoil yet suffused with a sense of commitment he had never felt before. As he navigated through the shadows of his addiction, he found clarity and purpose; everything began to shift. Sobriety did not just reclaim his relationships; it granted him a life filled with love and fulfillment. Celebrating over thirty years of sobriety, Tim is now the proud father of three and a grandfather of four. His recovery has even led him to become a therapist, guiding others struggling with similar battles, helping them find their way back into the light.“What I can tell you is that everything I have today has been granted to me by being sober,” - Tim LeideweberHis own experience has become a beacon for many lost in the darkness, illustrating that recovery is possible and profoundly rewarding. He urges those teetering on the edge of change, reminding them, “If you work at it and commit yourself, then you too can be sober—even if you've relapsed before. Just learn from it and keep pushing forward.”If you are at a crossroads in your life, contemplating the leap into recovery, Tim's story can guide and inspire you. For a deeper understanding of recovery and to hear more incredible stories like Tim's, subscribe to Recovered Life Plus. Join us as we navigate the path to hope and healing together. Don't wait—take that step towards your best life today by listening in on our conversations and connecting with a community dedicated to recovery.Join Tim and many others as we walk this journey together!Ad Disclaimer: You still have to do the work to stay sober, even while using the mug. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.recoveredlife.tvIn this Recovered Life Plus exclusive, Judy Acheson and I go deeper into the conversation sparked by our main episode on Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT). This isn't just a recap — it's where we really pull back the curtain. We talk openly about the stigma still lingering in recovery circles, how misinformation is harming people, and why emotional sobriety matters just as much as physical abstinence. Judy shares powerful insights from the front lines of treatment, and we dive into uncomfortable but necessary topics — like people using MAT being judged unfairly, the misuse of treatment protocols, and how sugar, shame, and spiritual bypassing still show up in recovery spaces.

Damon Frank and therapist Judy Acheson dive deep into the world of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for addiction recovery. They explore the misconceptions surrounding MAT, discuss its role in harm reduction, and share personal experiences and success stories that highlight the potential for lasting recovery.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Key Discussion Points:* Understanding MAT: Damon and Judy explain how MAT works, its applications for various addictions, and why it's a valuable tool in recovery, especially for those struggling with opioid addiction.* Harm Reduction: The conversation emphasizes the importance of harm reduction strategies in the recovery journey, illustrating how MAT can help manage cravings and ease the transition to sobriety.* Personal Stories: Listeners hear inspiring success stories from individuals who have transformed their lives through MAT, reinforcing the message that recovery is possible and multifaceted.* Community and Support: Judy shares insights on the supportive community around recovery and stresses the importance of ongoing engagement in recovery programs, regardless of whether someone is using MAT.Join us as we bring hope, share knowledge, and empower individuals on their path to recovery.This video is for informational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a licensed professional for any health-related concerns. If you're in crisis, seek help immediately or call 911. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.recoveredlife.tvIn this special “After the Show” conversation, Damon Frank and psychotherapist Darrin Dennis peel back the layers of what emotional sobriety really means — and why it's often the missing piece in long-term recovery. While getting physically sober is a massive step, what happens after that is where the real work begins. This raw and eye-opening dialogue explores why many people stop just short of doing the deeper emotional work and what it takes to move past surface-level healing.

Damon Frank and guest psychotherapist Darrin Dennis delve deeper into the topic of emotional sobriety and its critical role in recovery. They explore how emotional challenges and past traumas can impact sobriety and the journey to a fulfilled life free from addiction.

Damon Frank and guest psychotherapist Darrin Dennis delve deeper into the topic of emotional sobriety and its critical role in recovery. They explore how emotional challenges and past traumas can impact sobriety and the journey to a fulfilled life free from addiction.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Key Highlights:* What is Emotional Sobriety? Darrin defines emotional sobriety as recognizing and coping with feelings that often push individuals towards substance use or addictive behaviors.* The Importance of Therapy: Darrin emphasizes the value of therapy for healing emotional scars and maintaining motivation on the recovery path.* Sustainable Sobriety: The hosts discuss the distinction between physical and emotional sobriety and why achieving emotional balance is crucial for long-term recovery success.* Practical Tips: Listeners are given practical steps for improving emotional hygiene, such as journaling, setting boundaries, and being mindful of their feelings.This episode is a must-watch for anyone on their recovery journey or seeking deeper understanding of emotional impacts within sobriety. Join Damon and Darrin as they shine a light on the challenging but vital journey towards emotional balance and healing. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.recoveredlife.tvAfter recording an episode of The Recovered Life Show with Coach Joe, I've been thinking a lot about the powerful insights he shared. His story of surrender—literally putting his hands out and asking to be arrested—was one of the most impactful moments of our conversation. That moment wasn't about giving up; it was about letting go of resistance and stepping into real recovery.Joe's journey is a reminder that transformation isn't just about stopping a behavior—it's about fully embracing a new way of life. And in our conversation, he broke down what that process really looked like for him.

Join us for this episode of The Recovered Life Show as host Damon Frank speaks with Coach Joe, a dedicated member of the recovery community with seventeen years of continuous sobriety. Hear Joe's incredible journey from the depths of addiction to living a fulfilling life in recovery. This episode dives into the misconceptions around knowledge and recovery, the struggle of recognizing addiction, and the importance of reaching out for help. Joe shares his personal experiences, including the pivotal moment that led him to seek help and how he rebuilt his life after hitting rock bottom. Tune in for insights that can inspire anyone on their path to recovery.Stay tuned for the timestamped chapters below!

Join us for this episode of The Recovered Life Show as host Damon Frank speaks with Coach Joe, a dedicated member of the recovery community with seventeen years of continuous sobriety. Hear Joe's incredible journey from the depths of addiction to living a fulfilling life in recovery. This episode dives into the misconceptions around knowledge and recovery, the struggle of recognizing addiction, and the importance of reaching out for help. Joe shares his personal experiences, including the pivotal moment that led him to seek help and how he rebuilt his life after hitting rock bottom. Tune in for insights that can inspire anyone on their path to recovery. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.recoveredlife.tvLast week, I had an intense and enlightening discussion on BPD & Addiction on the Recovered Life Show. In this After the Show segment, I was joined by Kennedy McGurkin, a therapist and the owner of Returning to Self LLC. This conversation was raw, real, and necessary—diving into the intersection of borderline personality disorder (BPD), addiction, codependency, and recovery.Facing the Fear Around BPDI'll be honest—this was a topic that made me nervous. As a streamer, I've encountered many individuals struggling with BPD and addiction, and at first, I didn't know what I was looking at. It felt like drama, chaos, and unpredictability. But over time, I began to understand that what seemed like manipulation was really a deep fear of abandonment playing out in real time.

In this episode of The Recovered Life Show, host Damon Frank welcomes back therapist Kennedy McGurkin from Returning to Self in Boise, Idaho, for a deep dive into borderline personality disorder (BPD) and its connection to addiction recovery. Kennedy shares valuable insights on how BPD affects emotions, relationships, and self-perception, as well as why it is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. She highlights the fear of abandonment as a driving force behind many behaviors associated with BPD and explains why individuals with BPD may struggle with addiction as a means of self-medication.This conversation also explores the challenges men face in receiving a BPD diagnosis, how symptoms manifest differently between genders, and the role of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in managing symptoms. Kennedy emphasizes that recovery is possible, encouraging those who suspect they may have BPD to seek professional diagnosis and treatment. For individuals in recovery, building a supportive community and addressing both addiction and mental health issues are crucial for long-term healing.

In this episode of The Recovered Life Show, host Damon Frank welcomes back therapist Kennedy McGurkin from Returning to Self in Boise, Idaho, for a deep dive into borderline personality disorder (BPD) and its connection to addiction recovery. Kennedy shares valuable insights on how BPD affects emotions, relationships, and self-perception, as well as why it is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. She highlights the fear of abandonment as a driving force behind many behaviors associated with BPD and explains why individuals with BPD may struggle with addiction as a means of self-medication.Recovered Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.This conversation also explores the challenges men face in receiving a BPD diagnosis, how symptoms manifest differently between genders, and the role of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in managing symptoms. Kennedy emphasizes that recovery is possible, encouraging those who suspect they may have BPD to seek professional diagnosis and treatment. For individuals in recovery, building a supportive community and addressing both addiction and mental health issues are crucial for long-term healing.

I had a real, unfiltered convo with Christie Dames after the latest episode of The Recovered Life Show for the Recovered Life + Plus Subscribers—and we didn't hold back.

In this episode of Recovered Life, host Damon Frank sits down with guest Christie Dames to explore the critical connection between sobriety and nutrition. They discuss how diet impacts recovery, the role of food in emotional balance, and practical strategies for making healthier choices that support long-term sobriety. Christie shares expert insights on avoiding common nutritional pitfalls and how proper nourishment can enhance mental clarity and emotional resilience in recovery.

In this episode of Recovered Life, host Damon Frank sits down with guest Christie Dames to explore the critical connection between sobriety and nutrition. They discuss how diet impacts recovery, the role of food in emotional balance, and practical strategies for making healthier choices that support long-term sobriety. Christie shares expert insights on avoiding common nutritional pitfalls and how proper nourishment can enhance mental clarity and emotional resilience in recovery.Recovered Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.recoveredlife.tvI had a real, unfiltered convo with Ennovy after the latest episode of The Recovered Life Show for the Recovered Life + Plus Subscribers — and we didn't hold back.

On this episode of The Recovered Life Show, Damon sits down with Ennovy, who shares her powerful transformation — from addiction to 10 years of sobriety and helping others.

On this episode of The Recovered Life Show, Damon sits down with Eenevoy, who shares her powerful transformation — from addiction to 10 years of sobriety and helping others.

Damon Frank speaks with Cecil Gailey Jr., a peer support specialist who shares his journey of overcoming co-occurring addiction and schizophrenia. The discussion highlights the challenges of navigating recovery for both conditions simultaneously, the misconceptions surrounding mental health, and the hope that with the right treatment and support, a fulfilling life is possible.Follow Cicil on TikTok here.

Damon Frank speaks with Cecil Gailey Jr., a peer support specialist who shares his journey of overcoming co-occurring addiction and schizophrenia. The discussion highlights the challenges of navigating recovery for both conditions simultaneously, the misconceptions surrounding mental health, and the hope that with the right treatment and support, a fulfilling life is possible. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank speaks with Dr. Rachael Dawkins about how to set boundaries without guilt. 

Damon Frank speaks with Dr. Rachael Dawkins about how to set boundaries without guilt. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Are you sick of never-ending Holiday Family Drama? In this episode, guest Kyle Miller discusses how to break the cycle of holiday drama in recovery.Recovered Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Are you sick of never-ending Holiday Family Drama?  In this episode, guest Kyle Miller discusses how to break the cycle of holiday drama in recovery.

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss managing holiday stress in recovery.Recovered Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss managing holiday stress in recovery.  

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss how they practice gratitude in their recovery and techniques for tapping into gratitude no matter your present situation. Share this post with someone who needs it! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss practicing gratitude in your recovery.  

Join Damon Frank, Kevin O'Malley, Evan Jarschauer, and Hannah Rose Bernstein to discuss staying sober and Happy this Thanksgiving.  If you know of someone who needs this, please share!Recovered Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Join Damon Frank, Kevin O'Malley, Evan, and Hannah to discuss how to stay sober and Happy this Thanksgiving.  Evan Jarschauerhttps://pxl.to/11n47ooHannah Rose Bernsteinhttps://pxl.to/qnvh44qKevin O'Malleyhttps://pxl.to/aovsijl

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss what happens if your Friends & Family do not support your recovery. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss what happens if your Friends & Family do not support your recovery.

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss discuss what to do when you have alcohol cravings.

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss why politics and AA are not a great idea and try to figure out what Jelly Roll said about sobriety.Recovered Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss why politics and AA are not a great idea and try to figure out what Jelly Roll said about sobriety.

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss the intersection of addiction treatment and mental health.

Damon Frank interviews interventionist Eric Reinhart to explore the intricacies of addiction recovery interventions. Reinhart sheds light on how addiction impacts the entire family, often entangling them in codependency, and emphasizes the importance of setting firm boundaries to help loved ones seek treatment. While not all interventions result in immediate success, Reinhart highlights the power of planting seeds for future change and how family members can play a pivotal role in motivating long-term recovery by standing firm in their support. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank interviews interventionist Eric Reinhart to explore the intricacies of addiction recovery interventions. Reinhart sheds light on how addiction impacts the entire family, often entangling them in codependency, and emphasizes the importance of setting firm boundaries to help loved ones seek treatment. While not all interventions result in immediate success, Reinhart highlights the power of planting seeds for future change and how family members can play a pivotal role in motivating long-term recovery by standing firm in their support.

Going through a divorce while in recovery can be incredibly challenging, but how do you stay sober amidst the chaos? Guest Chris Ingram shares how he navigated his difficult divorce and maintained his sobriety throughout. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Going through a divorce while in recovery can be incredibly challenging, but how do you stay sober amidst the chaos? Guest Chris Ingram shares how he navigated his difficult divorce and maintained his sobriety throughout.

Damon Frank interviews Jeff Jay, a veteran in the recovery field, an interventionist, and a man who is nearing 43 years of sobriety. Jeff shares his profound journey of overcoming alcoholism, including a period when he nearly ended his life due to severe health issues and hopelessness. He emphasizes the importance of family intervention, love, and the support of those who care deeply, which played a crucial role in his recovery. Jeff discusses how he shifted from a life of self-destruction to becoming a counselor and author, focusing on helping others through intervention and recovery. He reflects on the evolving landscape of recovery treatments, highlighting both positive changes and concerning trends, such as the over-reliance on pharmaceuticals. The conversation explores the importance of community, humility, and support systems, like 12-step programs, as essential tools for maintaining long-term sobriety. Jeff's story underscores that even when one feels incapable of staying sober, joining a supportive community can provide the strength needed to continue the recovery journey.Recovered Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank interviews Jeff Jay, a veteran in the recovery field, an interventionist, and a man who is nearing 43 years of sobriety. Jeff shares his profound journey of overcoming alcoholism, including a period when he nearly ended his life due to severe health issues and hopelessness. He emphasizes the importance of family intervention, love, and the support of those who care deeply, which played a crucial role in his recovery. Jeff discusses how he shifted from a life of self-destruction to becoming a counselor and author, focusing on helping others through intervention and recovery.

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss National Recovery Month and whether it is helping people get sober. Recovered Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss National Recovery Month and is it helping people get sober? 

Damon Frank talks with interventionist Tim Grealish about how humor and not taking yourself too seriously in recovery are the paths to a better recoverd life. Recovered Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank talks with interventionist Tim Grealish about how humor and not taking yourself too seriously in recovery are the paths to a better recoverd life. 

Damon Frank and Shauna McKenna Vick discuss the experience of the first month of sobriety, including the important things to focus on and potential danger zones. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.recoveredlife.tv/subscribe

Damon Frank and special guest Kevin O'Malley discuss our recovery journey this week and whether 12-step groups and the traditional sobriety journey have had a seismic change.