Back Alley Chats
by Allie Severino
Welcome to the Back Allie Chats Podcast! I am so excited to start this journey with you all. For those of you who don't know me...my story is- I am a person with lived experience with homelessness, addiction, mental illness, incarceration, and foster care. My goal for this season of Back Allie Chats is to dive deep into these systems which oversee our most vulnerable populations. I have over a decade of professional experience in these fields as well and as a peer, I truly believe that none of these systems should be creating solutions about us without us. I look forward to bringing advanced insider knowledge to the public because the only way to make change is through knowledge. I want this to be a space where opposing ideas and beliefs can be honored- this doesn’t mean we agree but we agree that each person has the right to free thought and free expression. So come along for the ride, we'll raise some questions, find some answers, have some laughs, maybe shed a tear, and come togethe
Episodes
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Ep 34 - Merry Mayhem | Allie Severino
In this week's solo episode, join your host Allie Severino on a festive journey through the ages as Back Alley Chat dives into the captivating history of Christmas. From ancient civilizations to the Middle Ages, explore the rich tapestry of traditions that have woven together to create the...
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Ep. 33 - Stories from the Grave | Seth Graves
In this compelling episode of Back Alley Chat, host Allie Severino engages in a poignant interview with Seth Graves, whose journey of recovery is nothing short of inspiring. Seth's tumultuous path began with early substance use, navigating a challenging road toward sustained recovery. His story...
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Ep. 32 - People Over Profits | Drew Breznitsky
Episode 33 of Back Alley Chat Podcast, Host Allie Severino, sits down with Drew Breznitsky, a Registered Mental Health Counselor and Human Services Board Certified Practitioner. Drew shares his journey from personal adversity to clinical advocacy. Drew's life unfolds from battling mental health...
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Ep. 31 - Lessons From Prison | Doug L
In the upcoming episode of "Back Alley Chat," we bring you a compelling story that unfolds in two parts. First, we sit down with Doug L., a Dojo and former Coast Guard member who found himself in the midst of the infamous Cocaine Cowboy era in Key West, tasked with stopping drug boats when he was…
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Ep. 30 - Beating Dopamine Addiction | Neuro Will
In the 31st episode of the "Back Alley Chat" podcast, we invite a remarkable guest, Will Robinson AKA Neuro Will. Will's story is a testament to the incredible potential of the human mind to transform lives. Join us as we delve deep into the world of dopamine dynamics, addiction recovery, and the...
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Ep. 29 - Double Dose Of Recovery | Ally Ruge
In this heartfelt episode of "Back Alley Chat," host Allie Severino sits down with the incredible Ally Ruge to explore her remarkable path to recovery. Ally's story is a testament to the transformative power of 12-step programs. Ally shares her experiences, from the depths of addiction to the...
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Ep. 28 - Addiction, Aliens and AI, Oh my | Kristina Pinelli
Welcome back to "Back Alley Chat" with your host, Allie Severino. In Episode 29, Allie is joined by her dear friend and recurring guest, Kristina Pinelli, for an episode that's as diverse as life itself. In this episode, Allie and Kristina dive deep into a vast array of topics, offering a...
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Ep. 27 - Love and Crypto | Allie and Philip Russell
Host, Allie Severino, introduces a very special guest, her boyfriend, Phil Russell. Phil's life is a tapestry of intriguing roles—he's not just an accomplished entrepreneur but also a dedicated dog dad, a purple belt in BJJ, a charismatic keynote speaker, a crypto investor, and a star contestant…
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Ep. 26 - Painful Profits | Allie Severino
Welcome to the 26th episode of 'Back Alley Chat,' where your host Allie Severino takes the stage solo to delve into a captivating array of stories. In this episode, Allie opens with an eye-opening exploration of multiple class-action lawsuits targeting pharmaceutical giants behind Suboxone and...
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Ep. 25 - Pain Into Purpose | Feat. Latoya Perry
In this heartfelt 25th episode of Back Alley Chat, Allie Severino sits down with the remarkable Latoya Perry, a woman whose life journey has been defined by both tragedy and incredible triumph. Latoya's story is one of turning pain into purpose as she shares her experiences of overcoming...
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Ep. 24 - Sex, Love and Alcohol Addiction w/ Jason LaChance
Join us for an eye-opening and inspirational episode as we sit down with Jason LaChance, a seasoned radio broadcaster with two decades of experience in the media industry. Jason's life took a profound turn when he faced divorce and became a single father, leading him to confront a long-standing...
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Ep. 23 - Expereincing Childhood Homelessness Feat. Victor Diaz
In Episode 23 of The Back Alley Chat Podcast, your host Allie Severino takes you on an emotional and compelling journey alongside Victor Diaz. Victor's life story is one of extraordinary resilience, born in the midst of chronic childhood homelessness that began during his middle school years and...
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Ep. 22 - Gutter Social Work | Darian Newbeck LCSW
In an eye-opening episode of Back Alley Chat, we're joined by Darian Newbeck, a licensed clinical social worker at the VA specializing in Veteran homeless outreach. Darian's journey into social work was fueled by a desire to break away from traditional teachings and connect with people on a…
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Ep. 21 - Allie on The Opioid Crisis –with a dash of Stoic Wisdom
Join your host Allie Severino for a solo journey in Episode 21 as we shine a light on the dark corners of the opioid crisis. We'll uncover the unsettling role of the Sackler family and Purdue Pharma, and examine the intricate web of collaboration involving the government. We will discuss the…
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Ep. 20 - Advocates Collide | Flindt Andersen and Allie Severino
On this episode of Back Alley Chat, we sit down with Flindt Andersen, a passionate advocate who has turned his journey from addiction into a mission for change. After battling a 23-year opioid addiction, Flindt entered recovery in 2001. In 2009 he founded the non-profit PAIN (Parents & Addicts In...
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Ep. 19 - Rise Above | Allie and Victoria Schmitt talk Resilience
In this episode of Back Alley Chat, host Allie Severino sits down with the remarkable Victoria Schmitt, a 20-year-old who has faced more challenges than many in a lifetime. Having lost both her parents to drug overdose, Victoria's journey is one of extraordinary resilience. Despite the odds, she...
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Ep. 18 - Beyond the Basics | A Journey into Sexology with Dr. Robinson
In this captivating and candid 18th episode of Back Alley Chat, your host Allie Severino is joined by the esteemed Dr. Samantha Robinson. Dr. Robinson is a highly accomplished sexologist with a passion for promoting sex-positive conversations and empowering individuals to embrace their sexuality...
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Ep. 17 - Allie Explores | Music Fest Safety, Bath Salt Revival, Sex Work, LISK and more
In today's Episode of Back Alley Chat your host Allie Severino delves into some pressing and thought-provoking topics. Join us as we discuss the alarming return of flakka and other bath salts to Florida, a state responsible for over 50% of bath salt-related deaths. Learn about the importance of...
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Ep. 16 - Allie Investigates | New Addiction Treatments - Cocaine Vaccines, Brain Implants, Ozempic and More
On today's episode of Back Alley Chat Podcast, Host Allie Severino takes us on an exploration of the cutting-edge scientific advancements in addiction treatments. Strap in for an enlightening and thought-provoking journey through the world of addiction recovery. Allie starts by shedding light on...
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Ep. 15 - Ramon Barber| Empowering Communities and Running for State Representative
In this captivating episode of Back Alley Chat, we have the privilege of sitting down with Ramon Barber, a true force of inspiration and change. Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Ramon, a dedicated advocate for his community, an accomplished entreprenuer, and Candidate for State...
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Ep. 14 - King Lazy Eye | Jail's Institutions and Punk Rock
In this week's episode of Back Alley Chat, join us as we dive into the remarkable journey of Dylan Wilson, better known as King Lazy Eye. Hailing from Perry County, Tennessee, Dylan has captivated audiences worldwide with his unique musical talents and infectious personality on TikTok. Born on a...
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Ep. 13 - Reclaiming the Groove: Jess Gero's Story of Loss, Resurgence, and Worldwide Jamming
In this action-packed and soulful episode of Back Alley Chat, join host Allie Severino as she sits down with the dynamic and resilient Jess Gero. A passionate lover of jam band music and an active participant in the Phish Phellowship, Jess has been immersing herself in the world of Phish and…
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Ep. 12 - Unveiling a New Format, Dry Dating, PC Culture, and an Exclusive Interview with Pop Artist, Xavier Alston
Join us for an exciting new episode of Back Alley Chat, sponsored by Quick Intel, as we shake things up with a fresh format and a thrilling giveaway! In this week's episode, we delve into intriguing topics like the challenges of dry/sober dating, the complexities of political correctness and its...
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Ep. 11 - The Unexpected Influencer: Maranda Maus's TikTok Fame, Non 12-Step Recovery, and Authenticity
Join us in Episode 11 of 'Back Alley Chat' as Allie Severino sits down with Maranda Maus, a courageous mother, widow, TikTok influencer, and advocate for non 12-step recovery. In this deeply personal interview, Maranda opens up about her journey of healing, challenging traditional approaches to...
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Ep. 10 - Savouring Second Chances| Chef Marco's Resilient Story of Overcoming ICE and Rebuilding Family Bonds BAMN!
On this compelling episode of Back Alley Chat, Host Allie Severino dives deep into the inspiring story of Chef Marco Morillo. Discover how Chef Marco, a culinary master, loving father, and devoted husband, triumphed over his battle with ICE addiction to find culinary excellence, reunite with his...
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Ep. 9 - Jaime Bridges: A Narcotic Officers Story of Addiction and Transformation
Jaime Bridges grew up in Central Florida. Knowing addiction ran in her family she was always vigilent to stay on the right track. Being a start sports player, Jaime reciveved a scholarship and eventually became a police officer. After multiple injuries on the job, Jaime would became addicted to...
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Ep. 8 - Allie Severino | In the Hot Seat: Addiction Journey and Audience Questions
Get ready for a special episode of Back Alley Chat as Host Allie Severino takes the hot seat. Warning: brace yourself for an unfiltered conversation as Allie dives into her past and fearlessly recounts her wild ride, recounting the unconventional twists and turns that led her on her path to...
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Ep. 7 - Jeff Bowman: The man behind the Kava movement in the USA
On this episode of Back Alley Chat, we're joined by Jeff Bowman, a trailblazer in the world of natural wellness and a leading expert on kava. Jeff's journey is nothing short of remarkable, from opening the first kava bar in the mainland US to wandering the jungles of Vanuatu and becoming one of…
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Ep. 6 - Stomping Out the Stigma: Tim Roberto's Journey from Addiction to First Responder Advocate
In this episode, host Allie Severino sits down with Tim Roberto, a former Marine who struggled with addiction and homelessness before finding sobriety in Florida. Today, Tim is 16 years sober and a passionate advocate for first responders who face mental health and addiction challenges. Tim's...
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Ep. 5 - "Maximizing Your Potential: Lessons from Lauren Hunnewell's Personal Development Journey"
Get ready to be inspired by the incredible story of Lauren Hunnewell! From growing up with two parents in and sometimes out of recovery to taking a leap of faith and moving to New York City with nothing but a dream at 25, Lauren's journey is one of courage, determination, and resilience. Despite...
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Ep. 4 - "The Comback Queen: Kristina's Journey of Overcoming Adversity and Building a Life She Loves"
In this episode of Back Alley Chat, host Allie Severino sits down with her friend Kristina to discuss her journey from broken and broke to thriving. Kristina shares her story of resilience and recovery, starting with her decision to seek drug treatment after a traumatic assault. Along the way…
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Ep. 3 - "The Heart of a Marine: A Story of Service, Sacrifice, and Social Justice"
Get ready for an inspirational ride as host Allie Severino sits down with Anthony, a retired Marine who went on to become an NYPD officer and social worker who recently attained his Ph.D. in psychology. In this podcast, Anthony shares his incredible story of transformation, from his early days in...
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Ep. 2 - From Home Invasions to Homeless Outreach: Joey Nieves' Story of Redemption"
Join Allie Severino as she talks to Joey Nieves, a man who has overcome tremendous adversity to become a shining example of how redemption is possible for anyone. After serving 7 years in prison and 14 failed treatment attempts, Joey found the strength to get and stay sober. Today, he Directs the...
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Ep. 1 - "From Blackouts to Brighter Days: Victoria's Story of Overcoming Addiction and helping others with humor and grace.
Victoria is a forensic psychology major who blacked out for many years before she found recovery. From Wall Street to Rikers Island, working for the D.A.'s office and helping the loved ones of addicts... Victoria has made her mark in the lives of many. We touch on the dangers of Trank and…
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Welcome to Back Alley Chats!
A sneak peak of what's ahead...
About this show
Welcome to the Back Allie Chats Podcast! I am so excited to start this journey with you all. For those of you who don't know me...my story is- I am a person with lived experience with homelessness, addiction, mental illness, incarceration, and foster care. My goal for this season of Back Allie Chats is to dive deep into these systems which oversee our most vulnerable populations. I have over a decade of professional experience in these fields as well and as a peer, I truly believe that none of these systems should be creating solutions about us without us. I look forward to bringing advanced insider knowledge to the public because the only way to make change is through knowledge. I want this to be a space where opposing ideas and beliefs can be honored- this doesn’t mean we agree but we agree that each person has the right to free thought and free expression. So come along for the ride, we'll raise some questions, find some answers, have some laughs, maybe shed a tear, and come togethe
Hosted by
Allie Severino