Podcasts about Alcoholism

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​Topics covered : Alcoholism, toxic family systems, boundaries, living grief, compassion, healing.This week I speak to author Josh Connolly about family dysfunction.Josh is a father of six and his book​ ​'It's Them, Not You: How to Break Free from Toxic Parents and Reclaim Your Story' is a bestseller.With a powerful online following and years of lived experience behind his work, he speaks openly about growing up with an alcoholic and abusive parent​.And in the wake of recent public conversations around family estrangement, due to Brooklyn Beckham's revelations, I wanted to explore what dysfunction in a family system actually looks like. The roles people can fall into​, the patterns that follow on into adulthood​, and why boundaries can feel so difficult and yet are so necessary.​Josh on Instagram​His Dublin workshop on Sunday April 26th 2026​Tics here​If you're struggling right now, there is help available...Ireland helplines and hotlines Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A dynamic conversation with Donna Marston, who helps family members find their own recovery in the face of a loved one's addiction, drawing on years of experience and her own journey as a mother of someone with an addiction.Special Guest: Donna Marston.

When Change Feels Hard: Understanding “Belief Echoes”In this episode of Think Thursday, Molly revisits a powerful concept at the heart of behavior change—belief echoes. If you've ever told yourself, “Change is just hard for me” or “I'm not someone who sticks with things,” this episode will help you understand what's actually happening in your brain—and why you're not broken.Grounded in neuroscience and mindset work, Molly explains why lasting change isn't about willpower. It's about the thoughts you've practiced for years without realizing it.What You'll Learn1. What a “Belief Echo” IsA belief echo is a thought you've repeated so often that it no longer feels like a thought—it feels like truth.Statements like:“This is just who I am.”“I never follow through.”“I'm not consistent.”These aren't facts. They're rehearsed mental patterns.2. Why Your Brain Protects Limiting BeliefsYour brain is a pattern-recognition machine. It craves familiarity—even when that familiarity is painful. Through confirmation bias, it selectively gathers evidence that supports your existing identity.If you believe you “never stick with things,” your brain will:Highlight every time you quitDownplay or ignore times you followed throughStore that “evidence” to reinforce the beliefIt's not sabotage. It's efficiency.3. The Real Reason Change Feels HardChange feels hard because you're asking your brain to:Let go of a familiar identityBelieve something new before you have proofYou must interrupt an old belief before you have evidence of the new one.That gap is where discomfort lives.4. Change Takes Thinking TimeWe often say “change takes time,” but what it really takes is intentional thinking time.New belief → practiced repeatedly → new feelings → new actions → new results.You don't build evidence first. You build belief first.5. A Practical ExampleOld belief: “I never stick with things.” New thought to practice: “I am learning how to follow through.”That subtle shift:Reduces shameCreates possibilityOpens the door to consistent actionSmall, believable thoughts are how identity shifts begin.The Science Behind ItThis episode reinforces foundational Alcohol Minimalist principles found in Breaking the Bottle Legacy , including:The Behavior Map-Results CycleCognitive behavioral principlesConfirmation bias researchThe Think-Feel-Act frameworkAt its core: Your drinking behavior is never random. It is driven by thought.Key TakeawaysYou are not failing at change.You are experiencing the momentum of well-practiced thoughts.Beliefs are not identity—they are rehearsed sentences.Sustainable change starts with choosing a new sentence on purpose.Your brain can learn a new identity—but only through repetition.Reflection QuestionsWhat sentences about yourself are you reinforcing daily?What belief echo might be quietly driving your drinking?What is one small, believable thought you could begin practicing today?Change begins with noticing the story you're telling about who you are.What belief echo do you suspect might be operating in the background of your drinking right now? ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Sober.coffee Podcast, hosts Mike R. and Glenn H. are joined by guest Frank for a vulnerable conversation about the transformative "gift of desperation" and the necessity of planning for "tomorrows" in recovery.The trio explores how hitting rock bottom serves as a powerful catalyst, opening the mind to solutions that once seemed impossible. They emphasize that while sobriety begins with the decision to stop, long-term success requires "plugging in" to a community like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and following the guidance of those who have already navigated the path.Key Discussion PointsThe Gift of Desperation: All three speakers reached a point where the consequences of their drinking became so severe that they were finally willing to admit powerlessness and take any suggested action for recovery.Unresolved Trauma: Mike, Glenn, and Frank share their histories with trauma, agreeing that healthy resolution is mandatory because "wounds will not heal with sobriety alone".Accountability & Connection: The group highlights the power of staying connected through "constant contact" and leaning on sponsors. They describe the recovery community as the "wounded healing the wounded".Frank's Journey: Once a "weekend warrior" plagued by multiple DUIs and cycles of anger and regret, Frank discusses his shift toward a life of honesty and stress management.Quality Begets Quality: Glenn introduces the idea that a commitment to a high-quality recovery leads to a higher quality of life, noting movements like "dry months" as potential starting points for the "sober curious".The "Next Suggested Thing": Instead of trying to calculate a complex formula for success, the three concur that the most effective strategy is simply listening to guidance and doing the next right thing.Takeaways for the ListenerSet Success Expectations: Be open and intentional about your sobriety goals from the start.Embrace Guidance: Listen to those with more experience and be willing to follow directions without overthinking the process.Be There for the Next Guy: Recovery is a reciprocal process; being of service to others is vital for maintaining one's own sobriety.Choose Truth: Honesty is the foundation of managing stress and breaking the "vicious cycle" of regret.

THE FOUR AGREEMENTS. On This episode of the Came to Believe Recovery Podcast Monty and Alicea explore the four agreements from Don Miguel Ruiz's book, connecting them to recovery principles and personal growth. It emphasizes the importance of integrity, self-awareness, and continuous improvement in living a healthy, authentic life. Closing Song: Friend Who Can by Thomas Mac.#recovery #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #addiction 

(Repeat episode) - SEASON 11 Coming FEB 27th! My website My Instagram

Alcohol consumption in the United States is declining. Gallup reports that only 54% of Americans now drink — the lowest level recorded in decades — and nearly half of Americans say they are actively trying to drink less.On the surface, this sounds like clear progress.But in this episode, Molly explores an important question raised by Dr. Adi Jaffe in a recent article: Are we truly becoming more emotionally resilient… or are we simply swapping one escape route for another?As cannabis use rises alongside declining alcohol consumption, it's worth examining whether substitution equals transformation — or whether real change requires something deeper.This episode unpacks the cultural shift away from alcohol, the rise in cannabis use, and the critical distinction between behavioral change and emotional growth.In This Episode, You'll Learn:The latest statistics on declining alcohol consumption in the U.S.Why cannabis use is increasing as alcohol use declinesWhat research says about cannabis use and alcohol reductionThe difference between substitution and emotional resilienceWhy simply replacing alcohol doesn't necessarily change your relationship with discomfortHow psychological dependence operates beneath surface-level behavior changeThe core beliefs that often drive alcohol useA simple self-reflection exercise to assess your own coping patternsKey Statistics Discussed54% of Americans report drinking alcohol (Gallup 2025)Nearly half of Americans are trying to drink less65% of Gen Z plans to cut down or abstain from alcoholApproximately 178,000 alcohol-related deaths occur annually in the U.S.41% of young adults report cannabis use in the past year29% report past-month cannabis use10.8% report daily cannabis useAbout 3 in 10 cannabis users are at risk of Cannabis Use DisorderThe Core QuestionReducing alcohol is meaningful.But emotional resilience is something deeper.This episode challenges you to consider:If alcohol disappeared tomorrow, what would you reach for?Are you choosing relaxation — or needing escape?Have your behaviors changed… or have your beliefs changed?True transformation happens when you dismantle the belief that you need something outside of yourself to manage your internal state.Resources MentionedDr. Adi JaffeThe Abstinence Myth by Dr. Adi JaffeUnhooked by Dr. Adi JaffeSunnyside mindful drinking app (15-day free trial available)Monitoring the Future (University of Michigan)CDC Cannabis Use DataHarvard Health on cannabis vs. alcohol risksBrown University study on cannabis and alcohol consumptionLow risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

STEP FIVE (A Snap-Shot) This episode explores the profound importance of Step 5 in recovery, emphasizing honesty, confession, and the transformative power of sharing one's true self. Hosted by The Montyman with cohost Roger McDiarmid this episode offers practical guidance on working through this crucial step. Closing Song: Lighten Up by Mike O'Bryan#recovery #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #addiction 

Vermont Army National Guard Chaplain (Major) Eric Stuepfert currently serves as a Federal Technician as the state Chaplain for the Vermont National Guard and the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain) Chaplain.  10:00 to 10:30 Seth Soloway Spruce Peak Arts Director on upcoming shows  10:30 to 11:00Anne Lamott & Neal AllenSpruce Peak Arts  March 28, 2026 7:00 PM  Anne Lamott writes and speaks about subjects that begin with capital letters: Alcoholism, Motherhood, Jesus. But armed with self-effacing humor –she is laugh-out-loud funny – and ruthless honesty, Lamott converts her subjects into enchantment.

(Repeat episode) - SEASON 11 Coming FEB 27th! My website My Instagram

In this week's Think Thursday, Molly builds on last week's conversation about overwhelm and takes it one level deeper—into uncertainty and the brain's fundamental need for coherence.Many people say, “I'm overwhelmed by everything.” But often, what they're describing isn't simply busyness. It's destabilization. The pace of technological change, the relentless news cycle, economic uncertainty, global conflict, and cultural instability create a steady stream of input that the human brain was not designed to process.Our brains evolved for village-level information flow—not constant global exposure in real time.The Brain as a Prediction MachineModern neuroscience describes the brain as a prediction engine. Researchers such as Karl Friston (predictive processing theory) suggest that the brain's primary job is not just to react to reality, but to anticipate it.Your brain is constantly generating internal forecasts about what is likely to happen next. It builds models of what is safe, familiar, and probable. When those models align with experience, the brain operates efficiently. Monitoring decreases. Stress drops. Calm increases.But when prediction fails—when the future feels unstable or unclear—the brain increases vigilance. Cortisol rises. The amygdala becomes more reactive. Monitoring intensifies.Uncertainty is not just emotionally uncomfortable. It is neurologically expensive.Research comparing predictable and unpredictable stressors shows that unpredictable stress can create stronger physiological responses than predictable stress—even when the predictable stressor is objectively worse. The brain often prefers a known negative outcome to an unknown one because predictability allows preparation, and preparation reduces perceived threat.Coherence vs. AmbiguityResearchers such as Travis Proulx and Steven Heine have explored how disruptions in meaning and narrative coherence increase anxiety and motivate the brain to restore order. Coherence stabilizes the nervous system. Ambiguity destabilizes it.When someone says, “I'm overwhelmed by everything,” that word everything represents a collapse of hierarchy and narrative. The brain cannot model everything at once. It cannot prioritize everything simultaneously. So it defaults to alarm.Language plays a powerful role here. Molly revisits her recent quote:“Every time you replace ‘I'm overwhelmed' with ‘I need to decide what matters most and go slow,' your brain stops firing alarm signals and starts organizing information again.”While this shift does not immediately shut down the amygdala, research on cognitive reappraisal by psychologist James Gross shows that reframing increases prefrontal cortex activity and decreases amygdala activation over time. Changing language changes the predictive model the brain uses.Molly also revisits a core Alcohol Minimalist concept: thoughts are both descriptive and prescriptive. Repeating “I'm overwhelmed” reinforces a future expectation. The brain uses repeated thoughts as data. Language influences prediction.Why This Feels Amplified NowThe modern nervous system is metabolizing more information than at any point in human history. Our brains evolved to monitor a small social circle, not global crises, economic forecasts, political unrest, and technological revolutions delivered instantly.When input exceeds the brain's capacity to construct stable models:Uncertainty risesScanning increasesStress increasesCognitive flexibility decreasesThis is not fragility. It is neurobiology.And it has direct implications for behavior change.The brain invests effort when it believes the future is navigable. When the future feels chaotic, it shifts toward short-term safety behaviors—scrolling, avoidance, comfort-seeking, and returning to familiar habits—not because discipline has disappeared, but because predictability feels safer than uncertainty. Coherence builds confidence. Confidence supports effort. Effort sustains behavior change.When coherence drops, consistency often drops with it.Five Ways to Restore CoherenceWhile you cannot eliminate global uncertainty, you can restore local coherence. The brain does not require certainty everywhere. It requires stability somewhere.Here are five actionable steps:Narrow the time horizon.Focus on today or tomorrow rather than the entire month or year. Short predictive loops are easier for the brain to manage.Identify what is controllable.Research shows perceived control reduces amygdala activation. Even one controllable action restores agency.Establish one predictable ritual.A consistent morning routine, defined work block, or nightly wind-down creates stability the brain can model.Limit interpretive overload.Too many possible explanations increase cognitive load. Choose the most useful interpretation instead of entertaining every hypothetical scenario.Build one daily evidence loop.Follow through on one manageable commitment each day. Predictable behavior strengthens the brain's trust in its own forecasting.Each of these steps restores hierarchy. Each reduces prediction error. Each sends a stabilizing signal to the nervous system.You are telling your brain: “The world may be uncertain, but my behavior has structure.”The Bottom LineYour brain does not require absolute certainty in order to function well. It requires enough pattern to feel oriented. Enough structure to reduce constant monitoring. Enough stability to believe its predictions will not be continuously disrupted.You cannot calm the entire world. But you can restore order in your immediate sphere.When coherence returns, clarity follows. ★ Support this podcast ★

Angela has 19 yrs of Sobriety.Her topic " family "Speaks of this line in doctors opinion "see the tragedies, the despairing wives, the little children"How the family disease of alcoholism looks like with her two daughters in the programme.  Talking about her total reliance on God.Reco12 Afro-Euro Timezone is a Reco12 Resource in and for the Afro-Euro time zone hosted by Lisa.S.  We hope that you will join us and draw strength and hope from these podcasts that we will host about every Friday at 10:00 am Israel time and 8:00 am GMT.Reco12 appreciates your help in keeping us working our 12th Step with these great resources and services for the addict and loved ones.  We gratefully accept contributions to help cover the costs of the Zoom platform, podcast platform, web hosting, and administrative costs.  To become a Reco12 Spearhead you can quickly and easily become a monthly donor here: https://www.reco12.com/support  or you can do one-time donations through PayPal (https://www.paypal.me/reco12)  or Venmo:  @Reco-Twelve .  Thanks for your support!If you would like to get in contact with either Lisa S or Angela J please send an email to reco12pod@gmail.com and we will get you connected with them.Information on Noodle It Out with Nikki M Big Book Roundtable InformationalSupport the showPrivate Facebook GroupInstagram PageBecome a Reco12 Spearhead (Monthly Supporter)PatreonPayPalVenmo: @Reco-TwelveYouTube ChannelReco12 WebsiteEmail: reco12pod@gmail.com to join WhatsApp GroupReco12 Shares PodcastReco12 Shares Record a Share LinkReco12 Noodle It Out with Nikki M PodcastReco12 Big Book Roundtable Podcast

This week on the Oakley Podcast, host Jeremy Kellett talks with Oakley Owner-Operator Craig Taylor about his journey from a long, successful career in wealth management to trucking and becoming a first-time owner-operator. Craig shares his past as a high-functioning alcoholic, a devastating 2019 single-vehicle accident that nearly killed him, the long recovery that followed, and the wake-up call of alcoholic pancreatitis that led him to quit drinking cold turkey. He explains how faith, second chances, and personal responsibility shaped his return to trucking, his move to Oakley, and his approach to running his truck like a business, covering fuel strategy, costs, and what it really takes to succeed as an owner-operator. Trust us, you won't want to miss this episode! Key topics in today's conversation include:Welcome to Today's Episode (0:51)Safety Reminder About DOT Physicals and MVR (2:45)Meeting Craig Taylor and His Oakley Connection (5:57)Craig's Background, Family, Growing Up In Missouri (7:59)Why Craig Left a Successful Financial Career (11:21)Discovering Trucking and Getting His CDL (17:55)2019 Car Wreck and Life-Threatening Injuries (18:35)Alcoholism, Denial, and Pancreatitis Diagnosis (22:09)Quitting Alcohol Cold Turkey and Liver “Miracle” (24:16)Wrestling With God, Second Chances, and Purpose (29:20)Returning to Trucking and Path to Oakley (31:15)Business Side of Being a First-Time Owner-Operator (37:32)Fuel Strategy, Margins, and Truck Profitability (42:32)Advice For Future Owner Operators and Final Thoughts (44:43)Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Podcast Summary: Don't Be a RichardThis week on Sober.Coffee, Tim D joins Mike and Glenn to discuss the nuances of living a life in recovery beyond simple abstinence. The episode, titled “Don't be a Richard,” explores the shift from just "not drinking" to actively "living better" through consistent, responsible action.Key Talking PointsThe "Next Right Thing": Sobriety is more than just avoiding alcohol; it is a way of life focused on doing the next right thing rather than the next wrong thing.Living Better: Once the initial hurdle of drinking is cleared, the focus shifts to creating a new, healthier path.Redemptive Qualities: Identifying with our "core selves"—the third grader inside—stirs qualities like trust and accountability that develop over time.Hard Work After the Drink: Real recovery starts after stopping the substance; it involves persistent effort to maintain accountability and consistent action.Perspective and Pause: When old, distorted thoughts surface, a simple pause provides the perspective needed to avoid old patterns and rejoin the right path.From Chaos to Calm: The journey leads from a life of chaos to one of confidence, comfort, and internal peace.The Role of Community: Ultimate answers and support are found within the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous and the fellowship of others who have walked the path.Recovery qualifies us for a "more better" life, where we no longer regret the past but allow it to shape our future for the good.

After the sudden death of his father leaves him drowning in guilt, a man unknowingly spirals into a manic break that strips him of his freedom, his relationships, and his grip on reality, forcing him to confront bipolar disorder and rebuild his life from the ground up. Today's storyteller wishes to remain Anonymous. However, you can reach out to him at anytom2020.t@gmail.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings: Suicide and suicide by cop, Parental death, Alcoholism, Bipolar disorder, Manic episode and psychosis, Self-harm, Arrest and incarceration, Homelessness, Police confrontation involving firearms, Mental health crisis, explicit language Social Media:Instagram: @actuallyhappeningTwitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.comWebsite for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott VelasquezMusic Bed: Pure_Ambience_APM ServicesIf you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of The Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly reflects on what would have been her mother's 95th birthday and the years lost not only at the end of her life, but throughout decades spent in active addiction. With compassion and clarity, she explores the difference between alcohol dependence and alcohol reliance, and why that distinction matters more than most people realize.Drawing from her recent conversation with Dr. Charles Knowles , Molly breaks down the difference between the small percentage of adults who are physically dependent on alcohol and the much larger group who fall into gray area drinking or alcohol reliance. She explains how neuroadaptation occurs over time, how reinforced thought patterns shape behavior, and why learned helplessness can quietly keep people stuck.This episode is not about blame. It is about progression, influence, and the hopeful reality that most people questioning their drinking are not powerless. Through science, reflection, and practical questions, Molly invites listeners to examine the beliefs that may be giving alcohol more authority than it actually has.In This Episode:Reflecting on the years lost to active addictionThe difference between alcohol dependence and alcohol relianceThe 2 to 3 percent statistic on physical dependenceThe 20 percent gray area drinking categoryHow neuroadaptation and tolerance develop over timeDopamine as a learning signal, not just a pleasure chemicalCue conditioning and incentive salienceThe psychology of learned helplessnessWhy belief shapes behavior and behavior reinforces beliefAlcohol's health risks, including cancer and sleep disruptionWhy low risk drinking guidelines reduce harm, not riskThe importance of examining your belief system around alcoholKey Takeaways:Physical dependence develops gradually through repeated reinforcement and neuroadaptation.Most people questioning their drinking are not physically dependent but are operating in reinforced patterns.Alcohol influences the brain but does not automatically remove agency unless long term dependence has shifted the baseline.Beliefs such as “Once I start, I can't stop” can strengthen neural expectation and reduce effort.Small cognitive shifts precede behavioral shifts, and repeated behavior reshapes the brain.Questions to Reflect On This Week:What belief about alcohol might you be carrying that deserves closer examination?Is there a sentence you repeat internally such as “I need it to relax” or “It helps me connect” that feels solid and unquestioned?What might happen if you approached that belief with curiosity rather than judgment?What is one small step you can take this week to observe rather than act automatically?Resources Mentioned:Molly's interview with Dr. Charles Knowles Alcohol Truths: How Much Is Too Much?If you are questioning your relationship with alcohol, remember that awareness is the first step. Change does not require a dramatic declaration. It begins with curiosity, clarity, and small shifts practiced steadily over time.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Your Brain Is Being HIJACKED: The Trap That Keeps You DrinkingMeet The Stop Drinking Expert: Craig BeckCraig Beck, ABNLP, ABHYP, DhP, is a leading alcohol-addiction therapist, coach, and bestselling author whose work has helped more than 250,000 people create lives they no longer need to escape.Why Craig's Method WorksCraig spent twenty years caught in the same drinking loop you may know all too well, rationalising “just one,” waking up regretful, repeating the cycle. Traditional routes felt wrong: twelve-step meetings didn't resonate, rehab was impractical, and quick-fix gimmicks failed.Eventually, he had a 'penny drop' moment where he realized that alcohol isn't a reward at all but just attractively packaged poison. First, he fixed his own problem and has spent the last fifteen years helping others with a clear, science-backed framework that anyone can follow.No labels, no judgment, no willpower battles.www.CraigBeck.comwww.StopDrinkingExpert.com#soberlife #sobrietycoach #quitdrinking #stopdrinkingSupport the show

The Atlantic Group Tuesday Night Speaker Meeting February 10, 2023 Main Speaker: Molly J-F  Welcome to the Atlantic Group Podcast. Our 7th  tradition states, “Every A.A. group ought to be fully self-supporting declining outside contributions.” Your contribution covers the expenses of our group, this podcast, and also that of our AA service structure. If you are an AA member who finds this podcast helpful, you can contribute using Venmo @AGTradition7 or Zelle at AGNYCINFO@gmail.com. Under what's it for, please write AG Podcast. Thank you for your support. For any questions, please e-mail: TuesdayAGNYC@gmail.com

Many people are saying the same thing lately: “I'm overwhelmed by everything.”In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores what overwhelm actually is from a neuroscience perspective. Is it just busyness? Or is something deeper happening in the brain?Drawing from research on the amygdala, stress hormones, working memory, and executive function, Molly explains how overwhelm is not about volume alone. It is about perceived overload and a loss of prioritization. When the brain detects too many competing demands and not enough resources, it shifts from organizing to alarming.This episode also revisits a recent WisdomWednesday quote about replacing “I'm overwhelmed” with “I need to decide what matters most and go slow.” Molly clarifies why that statement is directionally true but not neurologically instant. She explains how language influences prediction, prediction shapes physiology, and physiology drives behavior.What You'll LearnWhy overwhelm is a perception of overload, not simply busynessHow the amygdala flags cognitive threatWhat happens to the prefrontal cortex under stressWhy everything feels urgent when executive function is compromisedThe difference between descriptive and prescriptive thoughtsHow repeating “I'm overwhelmed” reinforces neural prediction loopsWhy prioritization restores cognitive flexibilityHow cognitive reappraisal shifts neural activity over timeKey Concepts ExplainedPerceived Overload Overwhelm occurs when the brain interprets demands as exceeding available resources.Amygdala Activation When ambiguity, uncertainty, and competing priorities rise, the amygdala signals threat, increasing stress hormones like cortisol and norepinephrine.Executive Function The prefrontal cortex is responsible for planning, sequencing, prioritizing, and organizing. Under stress, its efficiency decreases.Descriptive vs Prescriptive Thinking Some thoughts label experience. Others shape future experience. Repeating “I'm overwhelmed” reinforces prediction patterns that sustain the feeling.Cognitive Reappraisal Research shows that reinterpreting a situation increases prefrontal cortex activity and decreases amygdala activation over time.Why Language MattersWhen you repeatedly say “I'm overwhelmed,” your brain begins scanning for confirming evidence. Increased vigilance raises stress. Stress reduces clarity. Reduced clarity reinforces overwhelm.Replacing that statement with a prioritizing phrase does not instantly shut down the alarm system. However, it recruits executive function and begins shifting neural activity toward organization and task-based thinking.Language guides prediction. Prediction guides physiology. Physiology guides behavior.Practical ReframeInstead of:“I'm overwhelmed.”Try:What matters most today?What is the next smallest step?What can wait?This is not positive thinking. It is restoring organizing capacity.Overwhelm signals that prioritization has collapsed. Prioritization is a skill that can be strengthened.Behavior Change ConnectionPeople often abandon habits when they feel overwhelmed, not because they lack discipline, but because executive function is compromised.You cannot build new neural pathways from a chronically alarmed state.Restoring order supports follow-through. ★ Support this podcast ★

The Atlantic Group Tuesday Night Speaker Meeting February 3, 2026 First 10-minute Speaker: Sung C. Tradition 2 2nd 10-minute Speaker: Shua A. Main Speaker: Rory McS.  Welcome to the Atlantic Group Podcast. Our 7th  tradition states, “Every A.A. group ought to be fully self-supporting declining outside contributions.” Your contribution covers the expenses of our group, this podcast, and also that of our AA service structure. If you are an AA member who finds this podcast helpful, you can contribute using Venmo @AGTradition7 or Zelle at AGNYCINFO@gmail.com. Under what's it for, please write AG Podcast. Thank you for your support. For any questions, please e-mail: TuesdayAGNYC@gmail.com

My guest tried to beat his alcohol addiction numerous times, but failed repeatedly. In this powerful episode, Matthew "Matt" McManus pulls back the curtains and transparently talks about his journey to sobriety, why he became an alcoholic, and what motivated him to change once and for all. If you are struggling with some sort of addiction, it is my hope that this episode gives you the motivation to keep fighting and striving to live the life you want to live. You and your loved ones deserve it.  The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has a page dedicated to finding resources to assist you on your journey to sobriety. SHOW NOTES: Links to Matthew McManus' LinkedIn profile and Facebook profile Link to Matt's "Pension Protectors" podcast Subscribe to my FREE weekly newsletter. It is called the "City Manager News & Job Board" newsletter and can be found here: https://cmnews.beehiiv.com/ AAME MEMBERSHIP: To join the American Association of Municipal Executives (AAME), sign up at this link: https://community.aame.org/ AAME JOB BOARD: The AAME has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST: If you would like to support the podcast by making a donation, please use the "Buy Me A Coffee" link. Please rate and review the podcast on Apple or your preferred platform if you enjoy the show. It helps tremendously. But more importantly, refer your friends and peers to podcast through personal conversations and posts on your social media platforms. Joe Turner's LinkedIn Page Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

You're disciplined. You're committed. You show up every day and put in the work. But what happens when effort and motivation aren't delivering the results you know you're capable of? Santiago Brand is an international educator and consultant in brain mapping and neurofeedback who uses real brain data to reveal what's actually happening when people perform, stall, or burn out. Trained as both a sport and clinical psychologist, Santiago has spent over 17 years across more than 26 countries helping leaders and high performers improve focus, recover faster from stress, and perform with greater consistency—not by grinding harder, but by understanding the brain that's running the show. In this conversation, Santiago reveals why even the most driven individuals hit invisible walls. You'll discover how trauma markers and emotional dysregulation show up in brain maps, why high performers resist the truth about their own humanity, and how quantitative EEG technology turns invisible obstacles into something you can finally work with. Because once you see what your brain is doing, you can't unsee it—and that's when real transformation begins. If you've ever felt like you're doing all the right things but the breakthrough still hasn't happened, this episode shows you exactly where to look next.

In this episode of the Sober.Coffee Podcast, hosts Mike and Glenn welcome guest Tim D to the coffee shop for a raw exploration of recovery titled "No Longer Paralyzed—healing through ‘help.'" The trio dives into the defining habits of alcoholism and the realization that while habits drive us, we have the power to shift from cycles of negativity to victories. They reflect on the "box" of addiction that once kept them paralyzed and why the simple, repeated action of attending meetings remains a vital lifeline. Key Discussion Points:The Power of Help: Challenging the stigma of reaching out, the group discusses why asking for help is a "superpower" and the essential act of "ripping off the mask" to find clarity.Action Over Impulse: A deep look at why we often don't "feel" like doing the right thing, but choose to do it anyway to maintain the gift of sobriety.New Beginnings: How new members energize the program by reminding veterans of where they came from, reinforcing that most don't have "another relapse" in them.Responsibility in a Troubling World: Navigating a society filled with conflicting opinions by focusing on personal responsibility and being "aware" enough to choose life over a drink. “I walk the sober path of recovery intensely and reap rewards beyond imagination... If I can help one individual toward sober success, my purpose has been fulfilled.”ABOUT US - Sober Coffee

Mike and Julie Signorelli join us to share how God can break generational curses, heal trauma, restore what's been lost, and empower believers to receive true deliverance in Christ from his book Inherit Your Freedom. (J2760)

Send a textMatt and Steve dive deep into Dr. Silkworth's groundbreaking work on alcoholism and why understanding the medical nature of addiction changes everything. They explore a fascinating discovery: Silkworth published his "allergy theory" in a 1937 medical journal—two years before the Big Book—challenging the common AA legend about why he initially hesitated to put his name in print.The hosts discuss why the Doctor's Opinion matters less for its 1939 medical accuracy and more for what it tells newly sober people: you have a condition, not a character flaw. Matt and Steve get real about the difference between the physical reality of addiction (not your fault) and the actions taken while drinking (your responsibility to address).Steve shares his own parallel journey with weight management and GLP-1 drugs, drawing powerful connections between different types of medical conditions that were once viewed as moral failings. The conversation unpacks why self-knowledge alone isn't enough to stay sober, the role of dopamine in addiction, and why removing shame is the first barrier that needs to fall.Whether you're brand new to sobriety or years into recovery, this episode offers a compassionate, science-informed perspective on what's really happening in your brain and body—and why that understanding is the foundation for everything that follows.Links to the two articles Silkworth wrote in 1937:Alcoholism as a Manifestation of AllergyReclamation of the AlcoholicSupport the show

The Poison Industry: How Alcohol Companies Profit From Your DeathMeet The Stop Drinking Expert: Craig BeckCraig Beck, ABNLP, ABHYP, DhP, is a leading alcohol-addiction therapist, coach, and bestselling author whose work has helped more than 250,000 people create lives they no longer need to escape.Why Craig's Method WorksCraig spent twenty years caught in the same drinking loop you may know all too well, rationalising “just one,” waking up regretful, repeating the cycle. Traditional routes felt wrong: twelve-step meetings didn't resonate, rehab was impractical, and quick-fix gimmicks failed.Eventually, he had a 'penny drop' moment where he realized that alcohol isn't a reward at all but just attractively packaged poison. First, he fixed his own problem and has spent the last fifteen years helping others with a clear, science-backed framework that anyone can follow.No labels, no judgment, no willpower battles.www.CraigBeck.comwww.StopDrinkingExpert.com#soberlife #sobrietycoach #quitdrinking #stopdrinkingSupport the show

Last week marked World Cancer Day, and in this episode, Molly revisits an important—and often misunderstood—topic: the relationship between alcohol and cancer.This is not a new conversation, and it's not a reaction to headlines. Instead, it's part of an ongoing commitment to helping you understand the science well enough to make informed, intentional choices about alcohol—without fear, shame, or all-or-nothing thinking.One reason this topic continues to matter is a striking gap in awareness: while nearly 90% of adults recognize smoking as a cancer risk, fewer than half realize that alcohol is also classified as a carcinogen Project 1 (50). That lack of awareness makes informed choice difficult—and that's what this episode aims to address.In this episode, you'll learn:Why alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, and what that designation actually meansThe seven types of cancer that are clearly linked to alcohol use, including breast cancerHow alcohol increases cancer risk at a biological level (acetaldehyde, inflammation, hormones, and nutrient disruption)Why alcohol research in humans is mostly observational, and what that means for how we interpret the dataThe critical difference between relative risk and absolute risk—and why this distinction mattersWhat experts mean when they say there is “no safe level” of alcohol for cancer riskHow to think about cancer risk through an Alcohol Minimalist, harm-reduction lensKey takeaways:Alcohol does increase cancer risk, but risk is dose-dependent and cumulative, not absolute or immediateRelative risk headlines often sound scarier than the actual, absolute numbersYou do not need perfection—or abstinence—to meaningfully reduce riskReducing frequency, quantity, and duration of drinking patterns mattersAlcohol Minimalism is about reducing unnecessary exposure, not eliminating all riskThis episode is about clarity, not commands. Science isn't here to scare you—it's here to inform you.If you've ever felt overwhelmed by alcohol and health messaging, this episode offers a calmer, more grounded way to understand the risks and decide what feels right for you.As always, choose peace.Resources mentioned:TIME Magazine article on alcohol and cancer riskCDC information on alcohol-related cancersAlcohol Minimalist framework for informed, harm-reduction decision makingIf this episode was helpful, consider sharing it with someone who would appreciate a thoughtful, non-alarmist conversation about alcohol and health.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

This week I'm joined by Vaughn NeVille. Vaughn shares his tumultuous journey from living in the chaos of a divorce, battling alcoholism, and navigating the weight of past mistakes, to discovering the power of vulnerability and accountability. He opens up about accidental animal tragedies, sleepwalking into danger, and the profound lessons from buried childhood trauma — all while building a life of purpose in the wilderness. We break down how social media pushed him to hide his struggles, the importance of honest self-reflection, and why facing your demons head-on is the only way out.Follow Vaughn's Journey: @themanspot Interested in my private coaching & FREE workouts? Link below.http://www.nockperformance.com/BrainTree Nutrition: Use code "NOCK" for 15% off at https://www.braintreenutrition.com/?ref=NOCKUse code "NockP" for 10% off at https://ollin.co/

Send us a textOfc. Pedraza wanted to share with our listeners the impact of alcoholism in law enforcement. It had a major impact on his marriage and relationships He shares personal experiences, lessons learned, and the transformative power of faith in overcoming addiction. The discussion highlights the stigma surrounding alcoholism in the law enforcement community and emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health and coping mechanisms. #1 Book for First Responders + Free Resilient Responder Manual. Breaking the Blue Wall Not All Bodies Burn Fat the Same. Find Out What Your Body Needs Before You Cut Calories or Add Cardio- Take the Free Metabolic Quiz Now Your First Win. 28 Day Fat Loss Kickstart. Just $37. 28 Day Kickstart Free Stress Guide:Stress Survival Social:Youtube: Gilbert Rios III Gilbert's Instagram- @gilbert_fitnesscoachDisclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The hosts are not licensed mental health professionals and do not provide therapy or counseling services. If you are in need of mental health support, please seek out a licensed mental health professional or contact a crisis helpline in vour area. Some of the links and codes I share means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through it. This comes at no extra cost to yo...

Debi's 1st meeting was in 1981. Her 1st sober date was in 1987. Her current and (TY God) permanent sober date is 1/31/94. Debi had a long history of trouble at home, school, and the law, from a very young age, including rehab, detox, jail, DUI, psych ward, diagnoses, medication, etc. None of those things made her willing to do anything. She tried many other methods in and out of the rooms of AA. She was dry 3.5 years for the 2nd time and ready to suicide when she reached out for help with more humility and desperation than she'd ever before been able to muster and allowed a recovered member and experienced sponsor take her through the Big Book & the Steps. Debi finally had the vital spiritual experience the book talks about. She made ALL of her 9th step amends in a meaningful way and now lives in Steps 10-12, falling more and more deeply in love with Alcoholics Anonymous. The consciousness of the relationship with her Creator it has produced is the center of her life.  Today, Debi kicks us off on the first week of the 12 week series on the 12 steps of recovery.Reco12 is an open-to-all addictions and afflictions organization, dedicated to exploring the common threads of the differing manifestations of alcoholism; sharing tools, and offering hope from those walking a similar path. We gather from diverse backgrounds, faiths, and locations to learn and support one another. Our speakers come from various fellowships and experiences, demonstrating the universal principles of recovery.  Reco12 is not allied or affiliated with any specific 12 Step fellowship.Support Reco12's 12th Step Mission! Help provide powerful audio resources for addicts and their loved ones. Your contributions cover Zoom, podcasts, web hosting, and admin costs.Monthly Donations: Reco12 SupportOne-Time Donations: PayPal | Venmo: @Reco-Twelve | Patreon | WISEYour support makes a difference—thank you!Resources from this meeting:Dr. Bob's 3rd Step PrayerNew Light on Alcoholism by Dick B12 and 12To connect with Debi or any of the other speakers, please send an email to reco12pod@gmail.com .Outro music is "Truth and Reconciliation" written and performed by James Carrington and used with full permission of James Carrington.  To learn more about this music and performer, please visit https://www.jamescarrington.net/ and https://m.facebook.com/jamescarringtonmusic Support the showPrivate Facebook GroupInstagram PageBecome a Reco12 Spearhead (Monthly Supporter)PatreonPayPalVenmo: @Reco-TwelveYouTube ChannelReco12 WebsiteEmail: reco12pod@gmail.com to join WhatsApp GroupReco12 Shares PodcastReco12 Shares Record a Share LinkReco12 Noodle It Out with Nikki M PodcastReco12 Big Book Roundtable Podcast

In this Think Thursday episode, we explore how the human brain evolved to use discomfort as information—and what happens when modern life removes nearly all friction, effort, and delay.Our brains weren't designed for constant comfort. Discomfort once served as critical feedback, helping guide behavior, attention, rest, and problem-solving. But in today's world of instant gratification and instant relief, discomfort is often treated as a problem to eliminate rather than a signal to interpret.This episode unpacks why that shift matters for brain health, motivation, resilience, and long-term satisfaction—and how intentional discomfort can support a hedonic reset.In this episode, we discuss:Why discomfort evolved as a key feedback mechanism in the human brainHow instant relief interrupts the brain's ability to learn from discomfortThe difference between regulation and comfort from a neuroscience perspectiveHow highly concentrated, low-effort rewards shape motivation and satisfactionThe concept of hedonic adaptation and why “enough” keeps movingWhat a hedonic reset actually is (and what it isn't)How intentional discomfort supports nervous system regulationThe role of dopamine, effort, and delay in sustaining motivationWhy distress tolerance is a foundational skill for behavior changeHow identity shifts through repeated, slightly uncomfortable choicesExpert perspectives referenced:Dr. Anna Lembke, author of Dopamine Nation, on pleasure–pain balance and modern reward concentrationDr. Andrew Huberman on dopamine signaling, effort, and motivationJames Clear on identity following behaviorInspiration from a conversation on the Mel Robbins Podcast with Dr. LembkeOne gentle experiment to try this week:Choose one moment per day when you notice mild discomfort—boredom, restlessness, or the urge to distract—and pause instead of fixing it.Examples:Standing in line without reaching for your phoneSitting with boredom for 60–90 secondsLetting an urge rise and fall without reactingNotice:Where you feel the sensation in your bodyWhat thoughts show upWhether the feeling changes on its ownThis isn't about forcing discomfort or pushing through distress. It's about teaching your nervous system that discomfort is tolerable and temporary—and that awareness alone can create change.Key takeaway:Discomfort isn't a problem to solve. It's information to work with.In a culture built around instant relief and effortless reward, intentional discomfort can be a powerful way to restore balance, protect motivation, and support long-term brain health. ★ Support this podcast ★

Keith Petty believes he would likely be dead from alcohol consumption if cannabis had not entered his life, as he consumed alcohol daily for years and engaged in destructive occasional drinking.Childhood trauma began early for Keith with his mother's incarceration and substance abuse problems, his grandparents' divorce when he was six or seven, and eventual placement in foster care at age 13 due to medical neglect.Foster care placement initially created culture shock as Keith moved from a chaotic household where his uncle sold marijuana to a strict religious family with no television and church three times weekly.Violence occurred in Keith's second foster home over sexuality issues and an AOL gay chat room incident, leading to his placement with a neighbor who became his permanent foster mother until age 19.Alcoholism escalated after Keith's first relationship ended, leading to ten years of reckless destruction including credit card fraud using his company's credit card for partying purposes.Legal consequences resulted in Keith facing jail time for credit card fraud and forgery at age 26, but he qualified for Virginia's first-time offenders program requiring two years of drug court and outpatient rehabilitation.Recovery through court-ordered sobriety was challenging as Keith had no family financial support system, forcing him to give up his leased home and handle legal consequences independently.A severe accident occurred in 2020 when Keith fell while day drinking during COVID quarantine, breaking his tibia, fibula, talus, and calcaneus bones, requiring surgery with rods and screws and causing permanent nerve damage.Blood alcohol content measured 0.34 the morning after Keith's accident, more than four times the legal limit of 0.08, highlighting the severity of his alcohol consumption.Pain management options were rejected by Keith due to family history with opiates, and high-dose ibuprofen consumption threatened organ damage, leading his doctor to suggest cannabis as an alternative.Cannabis treatment began with edibles and vaping cartridges, successfully managing Keith's pain while allowing his doctor to discontinue his Xanax prescription and break a generational cycle of benzodiazepine dependence.Mental health improvements from cannabis included reduced stress, better ADHD management alongside his Vyvanse prescription, and clearer thinking without sedation or brain fog.Business opportunity emerged when Keith was overcharged at a vape shop, inspiring him to convert his old party bus into a mobile cannabis dispensary serving farmer's markets, biker events, and local fairs.Sobriety from alcohol has been maintained for two years without AA meetings, as cannabis helped Keith view alcohol differently and removed its appeal entirely.  Visit our website: CannabisHealthRadio.comFind high-quality cannabis and CBD + get free consultations at MyFitLife.net/cannabishealthDiscover products and get expert advice from Swan ApothecaryFollow us on Facebook.Follow us on Instagram.Find us on Rumble.Keep your privacy! Buy NixT420 Odor Remover Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Joe Pappalardo traces the post-service lives of Company F leaders: Scott builds railroads in Mexico while Brooksbecomes a South Texas judge battling alcoholism, establishing the stoic, disciplined template defining the modern Texas Ranger identity and legacy.1904 TEXAS RANGERS