Clean and Sober Radio

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund discussed the unique challenges that summertime can present for people in recovery. Reflecting on memories of days spent at the beach, barbecues, backyard parties, and other social gatherings where drinking and drug use were once a central part of the experience, they explored how seasonal activities can trigger old thoughts and emotions. The conversation focused on whether those in recovery still felt a sense of longing when watching others drink and use substances, or whether they had reached a place of gratitude for no longer having to live that way. Gary and Mark encouraged listeners to remember how their own stories ended when addiction was in control and to appreciate the freedom, health, and peace that recovery had brought into their lives.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler was joined by special guest cohost Randell Jefferson while vacationing cohost Mark Sigmund was away. The discussion explored how addiction is viewed, experienced, and addressed across different American cultures, backgrounds, and communities. Drawing on his experience as a nationally recognized talk show host and respected voice within the Black community, Randell shared insights into how cultural traditions, religious beliefs, family dynamics, and social attitudes can influence both addiction and recovery. Together, Gary and Randell examined the importance of understanding these differences in order to create more effective, compassionate, and inclusive approaches to prevention, treatment, and long-term recovery.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Democratic U.S. Representative Mary Gay Scanlon for a thoughtful discussion about her political career and her ongoing efforts to address addiction and recovery issues. Representative Scanlon shared her views, updates, and ideas on creating a more compassionate, effective, and supportive approach in the battle against addiction, while highlighting the importance of public policy, education, treatment access, and community support in helping individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund explored the thought-provoking question: “Are you in recovery, or are you recovered?” The discussion examined whether there ever comes a point when someone can truly say they are fully recovered from addiction, or if recovery remains a lifelong journey—even after decades of sobriety. Gary and Mark reflected on the role of meetings, personal growth, identity, and self-awareness, while encouraging listeners to consider whether they still viewed themselves as addicts after many years clean and sober. The episode invited honest conversation and personal reflection about the evolving meaning of recovery over time.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Steve Forzato to the studio for a compelling conversation about his years in law enforcement, his efforts combating the opioid epidemic, and his current role as Director for Addiction and Recovery Education at Saint Joseph's University. The episode also featured Gary reflecting on a deeply personal and humbling experience after spending an evening at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility to celebrate 44 years in recovery. Gary shared how he looked back on his own life of addiction and the powerful realization that, instead of becoming an inmate there, he had ultimately gone on to serve as Vice President of the institution—a journey that underscored the transformative power of recovery and redemption.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Charles Bussey for a powerful and nostalgic conversation reflecting on their shared past. Gary and Charles revisited the “old days,” when they spent years immersed in the music scene alongside Philadelphia recording stars like The Delfonics and Blue Magic, living an exciting yet ultimately destructive life in active addiction. They shared stories from that time, the turning point when they realized change was necessary, and their individual journeys into sobriety. The episode also captured the emotion of their reunion, having not seen each other for nearly 50 years, making for a heartfelt and memorable discussion about recovery, redemption, and lasting friendship.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed longtime listener and recovery advocate Mike Burke as their guest. Celebrating 41 years of sobriety, Mike shared his inspiring journey as proof that lasting recovery is possible. He discussed how consistent attendance at AA meetings and a strong commitment to working his program had allowed him to build a productive, meaningful life, while dedicating himself to helping others achieve their own recovery goals.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund explored the question, “Who is better equipped to support those suffering from addiction and those in recovery?” The discussion focused on the unique value that individuals in recovery can bring through lived experience, credibility, and deep compassion, having personally faced the realities and challenges of addiction. At the same time, the conversation acknowledged the important role of the medical community, while emphasizing the need for greater integration of real-life recovery experience alongside clinical training. The episode encouraged thoughtful reflection on how both perspectives can work together to better serve individuals and families navigating addiction and recovery.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler was joined by special cohost Louis DeSanto, who filled in while regular cohost Mark Sigmund was on vacation. The show featured an engaging and wide-ranging conversation about addiction, recovery, and real-life experiences, including discussion of recovery news, the challenges of substance use across all walks of life, and the evolving landscape of treatment and support. Louis shared his personal journey into recovery, offering insight into the impact of addiction on family, career, and identity, as well as the turning points that led him to seek help. The episode also explored topics such as stigma, workplace recovery support, emerging treatments, and the importance of community, while encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experiences and reminding them that help and hope are always available.

In this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund explored the powerful connection between trauma and addiction in a discussion titled “Coping with Trauma in Recovery.” They examined expert perspectives suggesting that trauma is one of the leading causes of substance use, and reflected on how many individuals in recovery have experienced some form of trauma—whether recognized or not. The conversation encouraged listeners to look back on their own lives and consider how difficult or painful experiences at home or elsewhere may have influenced their path toward drugs or alcohol, while also emphasizing the importance of awareness and healing as part of the recovery journey.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund turned the spotlight on their audience after more than 13 years on the air. They invited listeners to share honest feedback about the show, including how the content could improve, what topics should be explored more deeply, and whether the balance between serious discussion and lighter moments felt right. Gary and Mark also welcomed thoughts on their on-air dynamic and whether the audience wanted to learn more about them personally. It was an open and engaging conversation aimed at making the show an even more valuable resource for the recovery community.