Lifting the Weight of Addiction: Greg Maloney on Meditation, Muscle, and the Spirit of Recovery

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Pathways with Chris Anne Coviello, I sit down with Greg Maloney—personal trainer, longtime friend, and person in recovery—to explore the deeply human journey of healing from addiction and reclaiming inner strength.Greg shares with raw honesty how early experiences of trauma, disconnection, and the need for belonging shaped his path toward addiction. From the influence of a drinking parent to moments of childhood sexual abuse and early social anxiety, Greg offers a rare glimpse into the internal struggles that so often go unseen.But what makes his story remarkable is not just what he survived—it’s how he transformed. Greg opens up about his many attempts to get sober, the relapses along the way, and the spiritual shift that finally anchored his recovery. We talk about how the phrase “you don’t have to do that anymore” changed his mindset, and how service, self-honesty, and spiritual connection became cornerstones of his daily life.A turning point in Greg’s healing was the commitment to meditation. As of this recording, he has completed 1,000 consecutive days of meditation, a milestone that reflects more than discipline—it reflects devotion. Meditation, for Greg, is both a spiritual lifeline and a way of staying emotionally regulated, connected, and present.We also dive into the world of fitness and physical strength. For Greg, lifting weights began as a way to push back against bullying—but it evolved into a practice of empowerment. Today, he trains others in mind-body strength, using fitness as a pathway to self-respect and stability. He shares how working out, like meditation, is a non-negotiable part of his well-being.This episode challenges the idea that relapse is part of recovery and sheds light on the multi-layered nature of addiction. It offers hope to anyone struggling with self-doubt, shame, or the question of whether real change is possible.Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply on a path of healing and self-awareness—this conversation is an invitation to deepen your practices, reflect on your resilience, and move forward one breath, one rep, one day at a time.You can find Greg:Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/american.gainz/His Website: https://americangainz.biz/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gmaloney1Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Pathways!If today’s conversation resonated with you, I invite you to explore more at www.cantontherapy.com, where you’ll find resources, upcoming events, and ways to connect.You can also follow my journey and stay inspired on Instagram @ChrisAnneCoviello and join our growing community on Facebook at  Chris Anne Coviello-The Healing Space-Canton TherapyUntil next time, May your path be grounded, heart-led, and full of light.Peace,Chris AnneP.S. If you want to support my Podcast you can "Buy me a coffee" at https://buymeacoffee.com/chrisanne