Podcasts about Narcotics Anonymous

*Trigger Warning* This episode discusses suicidal thoughts and alcoholismThis week, Antoinette and Shanti start with some light-hearted pleasantries and respond to some comedic listener voicemails. We are then joined by Antoinette's father, Jay Henry. Mr. Henry's full humanity is on display as he shares his experience as both an intentionally present father and recovering alcoholic. Antoinette and her father navigate this conversation with nuance and grace, while offering listeners the opportunity to bear witness to this healing conversation between father and daughter. Join us.Contact Us:Hotline: (215) 948-2780Email: aroundthewaycurls@gmail.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/aroundthewaycurls for exclusive videos & bonus episodesIf you or anyone you know is experiencing addiction, please see the resources below that may prove helpful: Alcoholics Anonymous: https://www.aa.org/Narcotics Anonymous: https://na.org/Al-Anon members are people, just like you, who are worried about someone with a drinking problem. https://al-anon.org/Contact Us:Hotline: (215) 948-2780Email: aroundthewaycurls@gmail.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/aroundthewaycurls for exclusive videos & bonus episodesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

We talk with Robyn Scott about how she draws on her career in comedy to help people recover from addiction using improv techniques, and how people can not only heal, but soar after trauma as they recognize their strength and creativity. Special Guest: Robyn Scott.

IT'S BUDDHA TIME. The Montyman invites you to our brand new podcast with the positive vibes of Tommy Buddha, his guests and topics of positivity, growth and change. Subscribe today and don't miss an episode. The show debuets Friday, July 4th. With all the negitivity in the world, we could all use some Buddha Time.

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

CELEBRATE WINS & MILESTONES. The importance of celebrating sober time, clean time, and accomplishments within our recovery is the topic for this week's Came to Believe Recovery Podcast. Closing Song: Today by Mike Zito. #recovery #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #addiction 

SURGERY, PAIN MEDS & RECOVERY. Let's have a chat about these controversial issues. Closing Song: The Presidents by Selfish Steam.

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

Do you ever feel like the universe is trying to tell you something? For a lot of us, we couldn't see it until we got a little bit of time in sobriety under our belts. But once you start seeing the signs, it becomes difficult to ignore the divine suggestion. For us, ignoring those signs has often had “poor results.”   This week's warstory comes to us from Angie. Angie spent a lot of time trying to convince herself her drinking wasn't the problem. Her journey in sobriety led her to trust in a power she struggled to understand. Her what happened when she finally let go, surrendered her will, and opened her eyes to signs all around her.    Thanks Angie, for sharing your story! Check out our sponsors. By supporting them, you help support the show and keep us bringing new stories with more and more hope and inspiration.  ===========================================================  ☕Brainwashed Coffee https://www.brainwashedcoffeeco.com/ Discount code: otherside

Well, it's been another big year since our last Radiothon, and this time Zakia and Michael could also join us to amp up the volume another notch for this year's show. Thanks to your generous support, by the end of the show, we had managed to raise $3,400, $900 over our target of $2,500. If you would also like to support 3CR then go to https://www.3cr.org.au/donate to see your options.Thanks also to our guests on the show over the last 12 months from:Al-Anon Family Groups https://al-anon.org.au/Gamblers Anonymous https://gaaustralia.org.au/get-in-touch/Narcotics Anonymous https://www.na.org.au/multi/Alcoholics Anonymous https://aa.org.au/Overeaters Anonymous https://www.oa.org.au/SMART Recovery https://smartrecoveryaustralia.com.au/Justice Connect https://justiceconnect.org.au/our-services/homeless-law/Our weekly podcasts are also available online or for shows up to 5th June 2025 : https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XQoKEcNW8Pa6eFRwGOET5eJxjO6244SW/view?usp=sharingAlthough we are not able to include the music in our podcast, here are the links to the music we played on the show and available on Australian Music Radio Airplay Project (amrap.org.au):Mark Howard: The Light Behind Us [https://amrap.org.au/track/mark-howard-the-light-behind-us]Andy Fillmore   Passing notes [https://amrap.org.au/track/andy-fillmore-passing-notes]boi&eSKae: SAID IN ANGER [https://amrap.org.au/track/boieskae-sia-said-in-anger-radio-edit-sia-said-in-anger-radio-edit]

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Chris and Max sit down with their friend Dan, who shares a raw and unflinching account of his journey through addiction and recovery.Dan reflects on a difficult childhood marked by emotional discomfort, parental separation, and a persistent feeling of being on the outside looking in. Even from a young age, he felt fear, rejection, and a lack of belonging.Introduced to ecstasy at just 12 years old while in care, Dan describes the initial relief it brought him — the silence of fear and anxiety — and how this instant escape became his "medication" of choice.He candidly recounts being bounced through children's homes, a secure unit, and juvenile prisons, gradually adopting a hardened persona that masked his internal pain. The story paints a sobering picture of how institutional settings shaped his identity.Dan talks openly about committing robberies, bullying, manipulating loved ones, and living with overwhelming guilt and shame. One particularly harrowing moment includes self-inflicted injuries to deceive his family for drug money — a stark illustration of addiction's depths.A moment of clarity comes during a stint in solitary confinement, where Dan breaks down emotionally and begins to accept that he needs help. This turning point, sparked by the echo of a support group's moment of silence, sets him on the path to recovery.Dan's journey through rehab, Narcotics Anonymous, and therapy helped him begin rebuilding his life. He shares what it's like to come out of prison and into recovery, experiencing community, kindness, and eventually giving back through service.Despite periods of clean time — even working in addiction services — Dan experienced multiple relapses, underscoring how fragile recovery can be without consistent effort. He reflects honestly on the mistakes that led him back to using and the lessons those experiences taught him.Now five months clean at the time of recording, Dan emphasises the importance of staying connected, attending meetings, and practising the principles of recovery daily. His story is one of perseverance, self-awareness, and hope.

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

SANTIAGO'S Experience, Strength, Hope, & Serenity. Monty Man, along with co-hosts Roger and Jack, engage in a heartfelt conversation with Santiago, who shares his transformative journey from a successful but unfulfilled life to a path of recovery and spirituality. Santiago recounts his DUI arrest, which served as a catalyst for his commitment to sobriety and personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of 12-step programs, spirituality, and living in the present moment as key components of his recovery. Santiago also introduces his four guideposts for a fulfilling life, encouraging listeners to make a conscious decision to be happy and to seek help when needed. The episode concludes with reflections on the power of community in recovery and the importance of gratitude. Closing Song: Serenity Prayer Song by The Serenity Prayer Project. Visit Santiago's Website www.santiagospeaks.com #higherpower #aa #na #alcoholicsanonymous #recovery #recovered #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #narcoticsanonymous #addiction #bigbook

This episode looks at the role of negative emotions in our lives, how to recognize and ride through them, how to learn from them, and how these things show up in recovery from addiction (and other mental health disorders) for both the person with the disease and those who love them. This episode is based on the "Biology of Mental Health" series that I teach at Windmill Wellness Ranch. Our podcast has been going since February of 2020, and we started producing both video and audio versions of each episode starting April 2025. Moving forward, each episode will be released as both video on YouTube and audio on Fireside. YouTube channel: @addictionandthefamily

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

12 STEPS – STRAIGHT OUT OF THE BIBLE. In this episode of the Came to Believe Recovery Podcast, the hosts discuss the importance of community and fellowship in recovery, the biblical foundations of the 12 steps, and the significance of accountability and personal stories in the recovery journey. They explore the role of church attendance and the misconceptions surrounding the 12 steps, emphasizing the need for a personal relationship with God and the importance of understanding the original principles behind the program. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by individuals in recovery and the necessity of support from both the church and the recovery community. Closing Song: Everybody Talks to God by Aaron Lewis. #higherpower #aa #na #alcoholicsanonymous #recovery #recovered #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #narcoticsanonymous #addiction #bigbook

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

This is a study and commentary of the Basic Text book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

Whats on Patreon:Adam's chaotic childhood, bullying, and getting high at 12Smoking weed with an abusive friend's stepdadGetting beat with wrenches, sent to institutions, and almost stabbedDropping acid at school, zeroing hits, playing in bandsCoke binges in L.A. writing sessions — snorting lines off Beyoncé plaquesSpiritual bottom after playing South by Southwest and weeping during ElfRecovery Unplugged, NA, and finding purpose through musicA live performance of his song SaviorThe Elsewhere program and recovery on the roadHis thoughts on music, God, and staying clean through service

HE CAME TO BELIEVE (12 Stepper Ricky Wade from Castro Valley, CA). The Montyman welcomes Ricky Wade, who shares his powerful journey of recovery from addiction. The conversation explores the importance of personal testimony, moments of clarity, and spiritual awakening in the recovery process. They discuss concerns about modern recovery practices, particularly the normalization of relapse, and emphasize the significance of community support and the original principles of Alcoholics Anonymous. Ricky's insights highlight the transformative power of identifying as 'recovered' and the role of faith in maintaining sobriety. Closing Song: We're Glad You're Here by Conley Ray White.#higherpower #aa #na #alcoholicsanonymous #recovery #recovered #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #narcoticsanonymous #addiction #bigbook

When Jessica's young adult son JB overdosed on fentanyl, he had a massive brain injury, and Jessica was told to abandon all hope. Instead, she fought for him and found the care he needed. In this moving interview, we hear her story of heartbreak and hope. We also hear from Dr. Ivanhoe of TIRR Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, who has been working with the family for years. Video edition of this episode available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/g4ptPLDZ0zo

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

It's been said that “life is a journey.” Oftentimes, we don't get much more context than that and it can be hard to know what to do with that statement. Where are we trying to go? What are we after? Is that a good thing or a bad thing?   Well, the journey is what we make it. For that one, you can quote Kenneth Watson. He delivers this week's warstory and it is a powerful one. You'll hear how it is we settled on this topic when you listen to where his life led him and how drugs and alcohol played an important role for a long time. With failed relationships, jobs that weren't what they were supposed to be, the military, and the death of his mother, all making up a part of his journey.    Today Kenneth is sober and able to recognize how each one of these things has placed him in a position to better serve those around him and just how much service plays a role in his recovery.    Thanks Kenneth for telling your story!   For more from Kenneth click the link! https://linktr.ee/12facesofsober Check out our sponsors. By supporting them, you help support the show and keep us bringing new stories with more and more hope and inspiration.  ===========================================================  ☕Brainwashed Coffee https://www.brainwashedcoffeeco.com/ Discount code: otherside

In this episode, we talk to Jami Carlacio, a recovery coach and podcaster who grew up around addiction all her life, fell into the disease herself, and was the first in her family to find recovery. She talks about how she not only transformed her life, but also started changing the family lineage of addiction through her own parenting and work as a recovery professional. We discuss how important it is to change relationship patterns and some ideas on how this might be done. Special Guest: Jami Carlacio.

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

WHAT THE HECK ARE OUTSIDE ISSUES? A Special Broadcast of the Take 12 Recovery Radio Show from our vault of the ‘Best of Shows'. #higherpower #aa #na #alcoholicsanonymous #recovery #recovered #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #narcoticsanonymous #addiction #bigbook

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

Most of us found ourselves in the firm grip of addiction because we were seeking. Seeking comfort. Seeking relief. Something to take us away from the negative thoughts or feelings we have inside.    In sobriety, we have an opportunity to seek in a new way. We seek a power greater than ourselves or a new relationship to the person we thought we were. Whatever it is, its in the seeking that we find the power. By remaining in a seeking state, we maintain an open mind to the positive influences around us and our relationships become more vibrant and strong.    This week, were talking about seeking, a topic we got from the amazing warstory from Chad. Chad grew up with addiction all around him and it wasn't long before he found himself neck deep in waters of turmoil and despair. Tune in to hear what it took for him to finally realize there is a better way and how seeking has kept him in touch with God in a new and exciting way.    Thanks Chad for telling your story! Check out our sponsors. By supporting them, you help support the show and keep us bringing new stories with more and more hope and inspiration.  ============================================ ☕Brainwashed Coffee https://www.brainwashedcoffeeco.com/ Discount code: otherside

Jesse grew up in a good home with good morals. He was a small kid and often felt scared and lonely. He was bullied at school and eventually turned to alcohol and then drugs in his early teens as they made him feel like he fitted in and more relaxed.His drinking and drug use progressed, adversely affecting his work and ruining his close relationships. His mum was a significant influence in him seeking help when all seemed lost when he was in his mid-20's. Jesse was fortunate to get into a 12th step drug rehab during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown. There he found Narcotics Anonymous, and he's now been 4 and a half years clean and intends for it to stay that way.You can also listen to Jesse's earlier interview from December 2020: https://www.3cr.org.au/livingfree/episode-202012311300/narcotics-anonymous-jesseIf you would like to find out more about Narcotics Anonymous or need to talk to somebody, then please call 1300 652 820 at any time or go online at www.navic.net.au.Show your support to the Living Free show and keep us on air by:subscribing to 3CR https://www.3cr.org.au/subscribeand/or donating to 3CR https://www.3cr.org.au/donateMusic played in this episode was provided by the artists, via Australian Music Radio Airplay Project (https://amrap.org.au/):Erica Avenue - JUST IN CASE [https://amrap.org.au/track/erica-avenue-just-in-case] @16:55Erica Avenue - FEEL IT [https://amrap.org.au/track/erica-avenue-feel-it] @38:55

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

Ever wonder what it's like to be a police officer AND an alcoholic? Well, wonder no more. Today we have a very special guest, Bob A., who found his way to sobriety after getting a DUI from a co-worker. Tune in to hear him talk about what life was like in the LAPD and how he worked to bring more awareness to the disease of alcoholism to his department and the law enforcement community.    Thanks for joining us and sharing your amazing story Bob!  Check out our sponsors. By supporting them, you help support the show and keep us bringing new stories with more and more hope and inspiration.  ===========================================================  ☕Brainwashed Coffee https://www.brainwashedcoffeeco.com/ Discount code: otherside

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

We look at different aspects of the illusion of control. We talk about what it is, how it affects family dynamics, how it affects recovery, how to recognize it in your life, and how to start diminishing its impact in your life and relationships.

Scott Burwell, PhD, is the founder and CEO of Neurotype Inc. Scott shares his journey from a background in experimental psychology to establishing Neurotype, a company developing brain therapeutics to address cravings in substance use disorders. He discusses the innovative use of EEG technology to measure brain responses to stimuli, providing an objective biological assessment and treatment of cravings. Scott emphasizes the importance of integrating science-led approaches in creating medical devices and reflects on the challenges and rewards of leading a MedTech startup.   Guest links: https://www.neurotype.io | https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottjburwell/ | https://www.linkedin.com/company/neurotype Charity supported: Equal Justice Initiative Interested in being a guest on the show or have feedback to share? Email us at theleadingdifference@velentium.com.  PRODUCTION CREDITS Host: Lindsey Dinneen Editing: Marketing Wise Producer: Velentium   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT Episode 049 - Scott Burwell, PhD [00:00:00] Lindsey Dinneen: Hi, I'm Lindsey and I'm talking with MedTech industry leaders on how they change lives for a better world. [00:00:09] Diane Bouis: The inventions and technologies are fascinating and so are the people who work with them. [00:00:15] Frank Jaskulke: There was a period of time where I realized, fundamentally, my job was to go hang out with really smart people that are saving lives and then do work that would help them save more lives. [00:00:28] Diane Bouis: I got into the business to save lives and it is incredibly motivating to work with people who are in that same business, saving or improving lives. [00:00:38] Duane Mancini: What better industry than where I get to wake up every day and just save people's lives. [00:00:42] Lindsey Dinneen: These are extraordinary people doing extraordinary work, and this is The Leading Difference. Hello, and welcome back to another episode of The Leading Difference podcast. I'm your host, Lindsey, and I'm so excited to introduce you to my guest today, Scott Burwell. Scott is the founder and CEO of Neurotype Inc, developer of new brain therapeutics to make environmental triggers less problematic for people in recovery for substance use disorders and other addictions. Well, hello, Scott. Thank you so much for joining us today. I'm so excited to speak with you. [00:01:17] Scott Burwell: Great. Thanks so much for having me, Lindsey. Thanks. [00:01:19] Lindsey Dinneen: Of course. Well, would you mind by starting off and tell us a little bit about yourself, your background, and maybe what led you to MedTech? [00:01:28] Scott Burwell: Sure. Yeah. So, I have a background in experimental psychology, a PhD in psychology from the University of Minnesota. And kind of what led me to that was experience: my family had a liquor store growing up and I worked there for many years. And so I saw firsthand from behind the counter people with substance use disorders occasionally, and just knowing from extended family, substance use disorders, and it was an interesting observation to me to see different people, how they get to a substance use disorder. Some through genetic propensity and some through experiences in their life. And that led me to get a PhD in psychology where I really focused on the genetics and physiology underlying substance use disorders. And during this time of getting my PhD, I was always trying to think of, where does my skill set and my interest align in the future? What kind of job am I going to have after this? So I looked around. I had some experience, thought, "Could I go the academic route? Could I apply for grants, be a professor at a university?" That approach, which is a very good approach for some people, where your main outcome are publications and grants and dissemination of science. And then I also looked at industry, but a lot of the companies in industry weren't doing exactly what I wanted to do, which was take these biomarkers that we were studying in psychology and transforming that into medical device or medical innovations. And then the third path that I didn't quite see at the time was this sort of like rabbit hole, this unknown path of medical device innovations or startup innovations. And it was an eye-opener to me through some programs at the National Institute of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse, that led us to this opportunity that actually, I could start my own startup in this space. And and I'm happy to talk a little bit more about that, that later. But really, this opportunity to make something new, based on the science that we know today, and based on the opportunity and the gap in terms of what people are being treated for with these substance use disorders. So that's kind of what led me down the path, and happy to talk about it today. [00:03:41] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah, excellent. Well, thank you for that. And yeah, I'm so excited to delve into so many aspects of your story. So going back just a little bit, you had this childhood where you were observing and you were seeing what was happening to some folks and you thought, "Okay, maybe there's a better way, or at least I'd like to understand more about this." But now, were you always sort of science minded and kind of interested in going into psychology, or did that come about as a result? How did that interest develop? [00:04:10] Scott Burwell: Yeah, really, I never saw myself getting a PhD, never saw myself going to an academia setting. People with graduate degrees, people with doctoral degrees-- all those people seem to be other people and not something that what we did. But my parents really instilled an appreciation of higher education in myself and my two older sisters. But again, it was never this plan for me to go out and get an higher education, PhD degree. I think that what really led me to the path was just try to understand myself. I think that's what led me to psychology. It was a psychology class in behavior genetics that I took in undergraduate that, you know, behavior genetics is the field of understanding how your genes and your rearing environment lead to who you are and influence who you are. And it was one of these, this realization that actually it's not just your experiences, it's not all just the soft, mental processing and soft psychological experience. There's really a physical, biophysical basis, to a lot of who you are and who you turn out to be. And I think that was really eye-opening to me and helpful for me understanding who I was and how I am in the world. And I think, you know, just that little bit of information of understanding, there's this objective information that is programmed in your genes or programmed in your physiology that influences who you are in everyday life, that I found super interesting and eventually led me to work at the Twin Study at the University of Minnesota. And then and then while I was there, I realized there's a lot of people getting PhDs that I'm not that much different from and we're all just curious people. And it's an opportunity for me to, you know, if I apply myself, it was an opportunity for me to pursue a field. [00:06:06] Lindsey Dinneen: That's very cool. Yeah. Okay. So, so you're pursuing this field and you've already had this background and interest in helping folks who have these substance abuse disorders, and I'm wondering, what were you observing as you have now developed this company? And I'm so excited to dive into that as well, but a little bit before that, what were your observations when you started realizing, "Okay there's a gap in the way that we're treating this or handling this or responding to this." And then what was the outcome for you that you thought, "Okay, let's try something different." [00:06:42] Scott Burwell: Yeah. So a couple of things. I think the first thing is that, the treatment of substance use disorders and all behavioral addictions and to some degree mental health is been sort of a parallel development. It's been a, it's been a parallel field that's been outside of the rest of the way that medicine is traditionally done. And so, even though we have for some substance use disorders medications for management of the substance use disorder. Or there are social support groups, AA, Narcotics Anonymous also, that help provide social support to people with substance use disorders. These are sort of groups and services that have been built outside of traditional medicine. And with the exception of these services, there haven't been too many medical innovations, FDA regulated innovations that doctors can prescribe for people with substance use disorders. And this is despite decades of research that are showing there are biological underpinnings of substance use disorders. There are biological interventions that, that can potentially help people with these afflictions. And so, that was one of the pieces that during my training, I was just constantly looking for companies that were doing this kind of work to treat disorders from a biological or psychobiological perspective. And I just wasn't finding anyone. And also at that same time, the DSM Five, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for substance use disorders, the criteria that sort of outline what it takes to get a diagnosis had just included the symptom of craving. It might be surprising to people, but it's only been since about 2013 or so, that craving has been an official symptom of a substance use disorder. And I mean, that's despite again, decades, many years of people reporting cravings being an issue that they deal with day in and day out. And so I was aware of this addition of a new symptom, but also I'm aware of the fact that the way that substance use disorders are diagnosed, they're assessed, they're monitored, is entirely subjective, meaning that people are reporting these symptoms in an interview in a one on one kind of subjective interview that people can report what they believe, report what they experience, which is valid information. But sometimes what you're aware of, what the clinician is aware of, might not be what's going on an objective biophysical level. And so I was aware of a certain biomarker that you can measure with brain waves using electroencephalogram or EEG and this biomarker is what leading science says is the biomarker underpinning of craving. And so I felt, well, you know, if there was a way that clinicians had this in their hands as either a diagnostic assistant or as a way to treat people with craving, this could be a valuable medical device that people can use. And so, I can talk more about the specific biomarker, but these were two realizations that I saw that there's a lacking and a need for innovation in this field. [00:10:03] Lindsey Dinneen: Great. Yeah. Okay. So yeah, could you share a little bit more about the biomarker and then how you have found, how you have discovered to affect this and what this device is and how it works? [00:10:14] Scott Burwell: Yeah, so Neurotype Inc., we were founded in 2019. We were founded after we were participating in this workshop at Yale University called Innovation to Impact. It's funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. And we really pitched this idea to them as kind of a off the cuff, last day of the workshop pitch event and won first prize in that thing. And that's really what gave us the steam to go ahead and apply for these federal grants to support further development of this biomarker. What the biomarker is, basically we put a headset on you and that headset is kind of like a fitness tracker except other than being like a fitness tracker that's tracking your steps from, you know, a watch or, you know, being a glucose monitor that's on your arm, that senses how much blood sugar you have, this fitness tracker is on your head. It measures the electro physiology that's generated by your brain. And it's entirely passive in that regard. We're not putting any like, you know, electrical stimulations in, but it's just measuring how your brain is acting at all moments. And what we do is that's different from other companies is we're actually recording how your brain responds on a millisecond scale in response to pictures. So we hand somebody an iPad while they're wearing one of these headsets, and we show them a flip book of pictures. Some of those pictures are like chocolate cake, puppy dogs, you know, cute, emotional pictures. Some of those things are boring things like kitchen supplies, office supplies, whatever they might be. And then some of those things are like opioid pill bottle, right? And so, for opioid use disorder, if you are liable for craving, and if you're likely to start reusing after being discharged from treatment, your response to that opioid pill bottle, the brain response, the objective brain response, is going to be very similar to how it responds to, for instance, chocolate cake, than a person that's not at risk for returning to opioid use or other kinds of craving. And so this biomarker is really a biomarker of what's called 'motivated attention.' How interesting you find that stimulus on the screen and how much it grabs your attention. And what we know from psychology is that if something grabs your attention, you're likely to behave in a way that is going to correspond with that. So if it grabs your attention, you're going to act a certain way around that stimulus. And so for people with opioid use disorder, it might be that it stimulates some thought process or some behavioral process in your body that leads you to seek that substance, affiliate yourself with people that have that substance, you know, all sorts of indirect ways that eventually lead you to start using that substance again. And so, we have done a few different research projects funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, and these are different projects over time that have really established the core assessment capabilities of the device. And now we're working towards clinical trial validation through a small business innovation research project from National Institute on Drug Abuse that will be a pivotal clinical trial for us. [00:13:30] Lindsey Dinneen: That's really exciting. When does that happen? [00:13:32] Scott Burwell: So, that is part of what's called a fast track project, and we are finishing up our phase one portion of that. And the phase two portion will probably start sometime this coming summer. Yeah. [00:13:45] Lindsey Dinneen: Great. Okay. That's great. And so what is your dream or ultimate ideal goal for the company and for this device? What are you hoping to affect or where are you hoping this device will be used? [00:13:58] Scott Burwell: Yeah. So, our main goal or our first sort of beachhead market, if you will, is the intensive outpatient treatment clinics for substance use disorders or other mental health. It's a certain kind of clinic where people are seen on a pretty regular basis during early recovery when they're still in a kind of high risk period. And in this group of patients, they tend to be in a scenario where they are living at home or living in the wild, so to speak, it's no longer a residential treatment setting. But they are living and being challenged day to day with the triggers in their environment that, that can lead to risk for problems. And the interesting thing about this space though, and this market is that in that space, there really are not many regulated, or any regulated devices, that are being used to manage specifically certain symptoms. And especially none that are applying to brain physiology like ours. And so, it's a pretty big step to bring our device to these spaces because they might be familiar with a blood pressure cuff or people might get blood work done from time to measure other health related risks. But for us, we are bringing an EEG system, and it's a portable EEG with a software device, into a clinic where they've never been before. And so my grand vision for this is really to be, you know, we're not a fix all. We're not a cure-all solution, but we are solution to help one specific slice of somebody's condition, and be a fix for craving in these settings. But if we can get the device in these clinics settings, it opens the door for a whole lot of other biomarker solutions to take place. And so right now, we're just focused on craving, monitoring the craving, but also treating the craving through what's called closed loop biofeedback. But the but the long term vision for this is to do-- we can additionally build out with the same brain kind of assessment, we can build out other kinds of biomarkers. So, those that are related to genetic risk. So we don't have to do like a full genetic test, but we could use that same brain data to to study what are called endo phenotypes, but basically a genetic marker of risk for a certain disease type or a certain disease progression. We could also measure other aspects of distress or you know, other depressive symptomatology or things like this with our measures. So, I think if I were to, at minimum, if we were to be able to make a dent or just get our device into these intensive outpatient clinics, that would be a huge success for me and the company. But, I think much grander speaking, it would open the doors for a lot of more transformative addiction treatment care. [00:16:56] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Yes. Okay. Well, that's incredible and thank you for sharing your vision, 'cause I always love hearing, all right, what's the longterm heart for this company in this project. So that's great. Yeah. Are there any moments that stand out to you, maybe as you're developing this device or maybe even before as you're studying the biomarker and you're thinking through, you know, how can I make a difference in this particular indication? So are there any moments that stand out to you as really affirming to you, "Yes, I am in the right place at the right time. Doing what I'm supposed to be doing." [00:17:32] Scott Burwell: Yeah, I think one piece was when we won first place at that at the Yale workshop that we did. I would say another was just getting each of these grants. We've applied for grants over and over again. And you don't get every one of those grants. But when you get certain projects, and when you're awarded these monies, it is incredibly validating because, you know it's gone through scientific review at the NIH. You know that also at the specific institute, so National Institute on Drug Abuse or Alcoholism or Mental Health-- they're different -- that this is an intense area that they see value. And so when you get these projects, and we've gotten over a million dollars now in these projects, that there's some validation behind it from federal and also a scientific level. So that's one area, but then I would also say that, when talking to clinicians, we talked to clinicians and we talked to some patients about the device, and we demo the device and demo the technology with some clinicians and patients. And, people will come back and be like, "Wow, why is this not out there already? Why don't we have this kind of data?" And to me that is incredibly rewarding to just see people and their immediate responses to the technology, because I don't think anyone really knows that this science or this technology is readily available. It just needs to be packaged in the correct way. And it also has to go through the correct regulatory and reimbursement pass. I mean, to just say "just," I think that's probably an understatement for sure. But, the science has decades of work behind it. And really it's up to us now to move that, to make it to that next milestone, that next goalpost. And that work isn't really science. It's just hard work. [00:19:14] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Yeah, indeed. Well, speaking of hard work, you know, forming a company on its own, working in the medtech field on its own, all of those things are difficult challenges to choose. And I'm curious, how has your personal path been in terms of growing into this leadership role where you are directing this company and directing people. How's that journey been for you too? [00:19:43] Scott Burwell: You know, I think it's been a journey. And when people say that you can't do it on your own, that is 100 percent true. And even if you hear it and you believe it, sometimes I think it takes a lot for me to come to the realization to put that into practice. I tried to do a lot on my own. In the team, I am the CTO, the CEO, the COO, all these different roles that I've assigned myself. We participated and were awarded into the-- NIH has this program called Innovation Core, iCore. And we did this program and one of our mentors there was really harping on the idea of leaning into your what are called core competencies. So what are you actually really good at as a team and as a company? And what are you less good at? And and I think that the more that I've learned to lean into my core competencies, which are really around the science, the translation of the neuroscience, the translation into a clinical tool that can be used, thinking about the vision of our technology. And tried to offload some of the other things, whether it be regulatory or whether it be some aspects of business strategy or other otherwise to, to other people that can help in a fractional sense or whatever to help us out. That's helped me both maintain my role as a leader and keep on doing the work that I think that I can actually contribute to and be useful contributing to, as well as keeping the company afloat in terms of funding and just hitting our milestones on all the different projects that we've been awarded and need to produce for. So, so I would say that, you know, I'm no, I'm not a perfect leader. I'm not a perfect CEO by any means. But I, but as I go on, I kind of learned that you can't do it all yourself, and you can't accomplish everything to the same degree as another person possibly could. And so trying to build good teams, trying to lean on team members that can do certain things, finding the strengths in certain team members and asking them to do the right kind of work given their skill set. But I think that's been a crash course for me. [00:22:00] Lindsey Dinneen: Yes, indeed. Well, that makes complete sense because, you know, like you said at the very beginning, it is a journey, and it is a constant learning and growing process. So yeah, that's, that's fantastic. Well, pivoting the conversation just for fun, imagine that you were to be offered a million dollars to teach a masterclass on anything you want. It can be within your field. It doesn't have to be. What would you choose to teach and why? [00:22:29] Scott Burwell: Oh my gosh. Well, You know, I think that-- I'm not sure anyone would offer me a million dollars for this. But if I had the time, I think If I had the time, I would actually really love to teach a masterclass on how to do this sort of neuroscience innovations. There's a lot. This is a really hot area for startups and innovations, the idea of using neuroscience tools as products. There are companies out there like the Muse headband or there's Nurable, which makes these smart sort of headphones that also measure brainwaves. Neurocity is another company that's doing things for productivity. And I know people at these companies. They're all great companies. And these are some very successful examples. But there's other companies out there too that, that are doing things that I feel are led by engineering first. So, just because you can do something, it doesn't mean that you should do something. And it doesn't mean that there's any validity to what it is that you're doing. So, you know, there's a lot of interest in that. Around developing brain computer interfaces or other kinds of neurological or brain diagnostic or treatment devices. They're doing brain stimulation or brain sensing or biofeedback or all these sorts of buzzwords. I think we're kind of part of that group, honestly, but the difference between us and the others is that we are science led and a lot of these other companies are engineering or technology led. And when you lead through something, when you start by innovating by technology and innovating by engineering, that's great from a perspective of showing others that you have a tool. But without a use for that tool, and without evidence from science that tool actually does something useful, then it's kind of useless. And so a lot of those companies go broke because they don't have a user for that tool or the tool that they built doesn't actually do what they intended it to do. So one thing that I think I would do in this course, if I were to do this course, is to really emphasize like, here's how you can approach certain kinds of biomarkers. Here's the types of biomarkers that people actually think is correlate with a disease, major depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, whatever it is, and actually have a scientific grounding versus building a headset that does XYZ first and not really having a scientific basis. One, one tip I would just offer people is just get a PhD that has the background in that content space first on your team, because they will tell you what the field thinks of it. And a lot of times, the field thinks that a lot of the products that are being developed out there are just snake oil. And so, so really, you know, do your diligence on the science before diving into something. [00:25:27] Lindsey Dinneen: Cool. Yes. I'm sure that would be a fantastic masterclass and very needed. So, all right. Sounds good. All right. And how do you wish to be remembered after you leave this world? [00:25:40] Scott Burwell: Great question. You know, I would love, like I mentioned earlier, for Neurotype to play its part in establishing these kinds of brain biomarkers in the treatment for behavioral and mental health disorders. I would love for us to be a building block for what the future looks like. I think we're using the most current science available to build our innovation. And if we can be sort of that first step into the future, I think that would be so great. And the science will change in the future, but I think that if we can be that stepping stone, that would be ideal. I think on a more personal level, I think I would love for anyone I know, anyone that I come into contact though with, I really want to be remembered as a person that's just been kind to you. If you can remember one moment that that you felt like, "Oh, Scott made me feel good in that scenario" or "Scott was helpful in that scenario." I think that would be a more realistic grab or a closer term grab. So, so, you know, both those things I think would be great. But in the day to day, I really work to at least hope that people remember me and felt that I was kind to them. [00:26:48] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah, absolutely. Kindness makes all the difference. Yeah! Okay, and then, final question. What is one thing that makes you smile every time you see or think about it? [00:27:00] Scott Burwell: Oh, geez. I think, you know, Is it is it okay to say cute animal memes from Twitter or something? But so... [00:27:08] Lindsey Dinneen: Sure! [00:27:09] Scott Burwell: I love cute animals. I love any cute animal or cute baby thing on Instagram or wherever. But I will also just say, back to the impact aspect of our company, we do research with people. We do early demo testing with people with substance use disorders. And some people struggle, they're in and out of treatment programs five, six times before something really starts to click. And they put in so much hard work and so much effort to keep on their pathway, unique pathway to recovery. And so, you know, I think that I'm really encouraged and really puts gas in my tank when I see people that are doing well and that they're happy. And because there's some degree of pride that person carries around and some, and and maybe that pride was not necessarily there beforehand. And so, you know, I think that I will, regardless if they are achieving their goals and living a happier life because of what Neurotype is doing, or something else, really doesn't matter to me. When I see people that are doing better, it is warming to my heart to see somebody that has made some sort of sustained change in their life that is impacting them in a positive way, because it really does show that people can change. People can do what they want to do and live the life that they want to live in many cases when they. are given the opportunity. And so that's heartwarming to me. [00:28:38] Lindsey Dinneen: Absolutely, yeah, absolutely. Ah, that's wonderful. Well, yes, and also, awesome little cute memes are the best, especially with animals, oh my gosh. [00:28:48] Scott Burwell: I know. Yeah. [00:28:49] Lindsey Dinneen: I spend way too much time looking at baby animals, but I always smile, so, you know, win. [00:28:54] Scott Burwell: Yes, it is. It's the main, it's the main way I get my little like boosts of dopamine throughout the day for sure. [00:29:00] Lindsey Dinneen: Yes, absolutely. Well, Scott, this has been a fantastic conversation. I so appreciate you joining me and sharing more about the work that your company is doing and all the innovation. I'm so excited to watch it continue to succeed. So thank you for spending some time with me today. I appreciate it. [00:29:18] Scott Burwell: Absolutely. Thank you, Lindsey. Thank you. [00:29:20] Lindsey Dinneen: Of course, and we're so honored to be making a donation on your behalf as a thank you for your time today to the Equal Justice Initiative, which provides legal representation to prisoners who may have been wrongfully convicted of crimes, poor prisoners without effective representation, and others who may have been denied a fair trial. So thank you so much for choosing that charity to support. We just wish you continued success as you work to change lives for a better world. And thank you also to our listeners for tuning in. And if you're feeling as inspired as I am at the moment, I would love if you would share this episode with a colleague or two, and we will catch you next time. [00:30:02] Ben Trombold: The Leading Difference is brought to you by Velentium. Velentium is a full-service CDMO with 100% in-house capability to design, develop, and manufacture medical devices from class two wearables to class three active implantable medical devices. Velentium specializes in active implantables, leads, programmers, and accessories across a wide range of indications, such as neuromodulation, deep brain stimulation, cardiac management, and diabetes management. Velentium's core competencies include electrical, firmware, and mechanical design, mobile apps, embedded cybersecurity, human factors and usability, automated test systems, systems engineering, and contract manufacturing. Velentium works with clients worldwide, from startups seeking funding to established Fortune 100 companies. Visit velentium.com to explore your next step in medical device development. ​

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

A wise man once said, “if you meet three assholes in a row, odds are, you're the asshole.” What did it take for you to realize that YOU were the problem? Tune in this week to hear us rant about what it took for us to see clearly, that it wasn't anybody or anything but our own making that was our undoing.    This week's topic was inspired by an amazing story from Marco. What did it take for Marco to start buying in that his response to using and drinking wasn't normal? Tune in to find out and hear how, even in sobriety, he found God's path in his actions while paying for the things he'd done while actively using.    Thank you, Marco, for sharing your story!   Learn more about Journey to Solutions and find out how they may be able to help you or someone you love begin the road to recovery. https://journeytosolutions.com/ Check out our sponsors. By supporting them, you help support the show and keep us bringing new stories with more and more hope and inspiration.  ===========================================================  ☕Brainwashed Coffee https://www.brainwashedcoffeeco.com/ Discount code: otherside

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

HE'S STAYING STRONG, HE'S STAYING SOBER. Interview with Robert Carver. The Montyman engages in a heartfelt conversation with Robert Carver, a recovering alcoholic and drug addict. Robert shares his journey from early substance use at a young age to hitting rock bottom and ultimately choosing sobriety for the sake of his family. The discussion delves into the challenges of addiction, the impact of grief after losing his father, and the importance of support systems in recovery. Robert also introduces his initiative, 'Stay Strong, Stay Sober,' which aims to inspire others through his story and racing endeavors. The episode emphasizes the ongoing struggles of recovery, the significance of community, and the hope that comes from sharing one's experiences. Closing Song: Broken Is a Place by Ricky Bird. #higherpower #aa #na #alcoholicsanonymous #recovery #recovered #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #narcoticsanonymous #addiction #bigbook

In this episode, we talk with one of my colleagues at Windmill Wellness Ranch, Sara, who has several years of recovery under her belt, and Lera, her teen daughter who grew up mostly apart from Sara until a few years ago. They talk about the impact of addiction in their lives, their ongoing struggles, how they have come together more as each finds her own growth, and what they feel has worked best to help the healing.

What does it take to get us to finally realize we have a problem? That we can't just casually drink or use? A lot.    Why is that? Oftentimes, we are holding on to the fantasy of what the substance CAN give us. We have reservations that keep us from fully admitting to our innermost selves that we are alcoholics or addicts and that we must find a way to abstain completely.    Our topic this week, reservations in sobriety, comes to us from Mike. Mike shares his story about what it was like to grow up and use with his addict parent and how easy it became to justify using after a freak accident left him near death.    Later, even after suffering severe consequences, Mike, like many of us, was determined to find a way to use and drink successfully. Today, he has finally let go of the idea of drinking/using like a gentleman and instead embraced the idea that a life in recovery brings him closer to being the man his family has always wanted and needed.    Thank you, Mike, for sharing your story! Check out our sponsors. By supporting them, you help support the show and keep us bringing new stories with more and more hope and inspiration.  ===========================================================  ☕Brainwashed Coffee https://www.brainwashedcoffeeco.com/ Discount code: otherside

This is a study and commentary of the Step Working Guides book within Narcotics Anonymous. We invite you to come along this journey with us. Please get your book, a highlighter, and a pen/pencil.

A new year is a great opportunity to look back and reflect on moments and events to take stock. It's not always easy to see growth when we're constantly in a state of action but when we do, it's important to really soak it in. Gratitude is the fuel that can rocket us into the fourth dimension.    This week, instead of a warstory, we're doing something a little different.  Thanks to you, the fans, we have our first in-studio guest in our new space. We couldn't think of a better person for this christening of our new equipment than The Other Side of Hell's own Jordan Y. Listen in as the three of us share what the last year has been like and the opportunities that are always around us.    Thanks to everyone who supported our GoFundMe. This allowed us to get everything we needed to make it possible to have guests in-studio again! Check out our sponsors. By supporting them, you help support the show and keep us bringing new stories with more and more hope and inspiration.  =======================================================☕Brainwashed Coffee https://www.brainwashedcoffeeco.com/ Discount code: otherside

On this episode of The Zac Clark Show, Zac sits down with comedy legend Rich Vos for a raw, wild, and insightful conversation. With 38 years of sobriety under his belt, Rich opens up about his battle with substances, the pivotal moment that drove him to recovery, and the incredible life he's built since then. Known as the first white comic on Def Comedy Jam, Rich recounts breaking barriers in the comedy world and the lessons he's learned from decades in the industry. The conversation touches on Rich's groundbreaking Amazon comedy special, Rich Vos Anonymous, which made history as the first filmed comedy show inside a Narcotics Anonymous convention. Rich and Zac also delve into the challenges of staying sober in the comedy world, the misconceptions about addiction and creativity, and the importance of giving yourself a chance to live differently. From recovery principles to the realities of mental health, marathon running, family life, and even the changing comedy landscape with social media influencers, Rich delivers wisdom wrapped in his signature sardonic wit. Please tune in to this episode for a powerful blend of inspiration, laughter, and an unfiltered exploration of the journey to recovery. Connect with Zac https://www.instagram.com/zwclark/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/zac-c-746b96254/ https://www.tiktok.com/@zacwclark https://www.strava.com/athletes/55697553 https://twitter.com/zacwclark If you or anyone you know is struggling, please do not hesitate to contact Release: (914) 588-6564 releaserecovery.com @releaserecovery

This week on Dopey! We have Simon Mason, an author, recovery coach and a shadowy figure of the Britpop scene of the 1990s. whose life story is a whirlwind of rock 'n' roll excess, devastating addiction, and eventual redemption. Known as the "Cat in the Hat," Simon was a dealer to Oasis and other legendary bands, a firsthand witness to the cultural explosion of the era—and a victim of his own spiraling heroin addiction. PLUS! A butt related voicemail, emails and much much more on a brand spanking new episode of the good old Dopey Show!   Join Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Dopey West Tix: https://buytickets.at/thedopeyfoundation/1484803 FROM AI:

Send us a textCan the holiday season be truly joyous without the shadow of substance temptation? Join me, Steve Bisson, as we explore the compelling differences between sobriety and recovery—two paths often confused but profoundly distinct. I'll guide you through the layered complexities of maintaining a sober lifestyle during the holidays. With gatherings aplenty, learn why the 12-step programs of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous might just be the lifeline you—or someone you love—needs. Through community and shared experiences, find out how recovery transforms lives, offering not just abstinence but a supportive structure to thrive amidst holiday challenges.Your journey to lasting recovery is not one you must undertake alone. In this episode, I emphasize the vital role of allies, those who stand by you as you navigate the tumultuous waters of addiction recovery. Learn how establishing clear personal boundaries and leveraging resources like therapy and support groups can reinforce your resolve. With insights from our upcoming guest, Daniel Gospardek, prepare to empower yourself and others on this transformative path. Whether you're in recovery or a supportive ally, this conversation offers the insights and encouragement needed to navigate the season with resilience and hope.Support the showYouTube Channel For The Podcast