PODCAST · health
Recovery is Possible Podcast
by Mike Van Meter
Mike has seen the devastating impact of addiction in his life, work, and community. His career began as a Navy helicopter pilot and later as a Corrections Officer, DC Police Officer, and FBI Agent. While an instructor at the FBI Academy, he developed a course on addiction, PTSD, suicide, and domestic violence. After retiring in 2019, he earned a Master’s in Addiction Counseling and now works as a Behavioral Health Therapist at a major nonprofit hospital.With almost 14 years of long-term sobriety, Mike, together with his wife Lillie, leads candid, compassionate conversations on addiction, recovery, and mental health—breaking stigma, offering support, and sharing resources. He also interviews guests who bring unique perspectives and lived experiences, reminding everyone that recovery is possible and no one has to face these struggles alone.To connect with Mike and Lillie, visit vanmeterwellnessolutions.com.
Episodes
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Episode 189 - What Do You Do When Someone Relapses?
Relapse is not a part of recovery, unlike what a lot of people may tell you; however, it does happen often. What do we do? In this episode Lillie and I break this question down and provide our thoughts which may help you if and when you run into this situation. Please visit our web site at:...
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Episode 188 - "Riding the Wave"-Beating Your Urges To Use
In this episode, Mike and Lillie explore how to handle intense cravings and protect long-term sobriety by leaning into a supportive recovery community. Drawing from personal experience—including a pivotal work trip to Poland—they discuss how isolation feeds addiction while connection provides the...
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Episode 187 - Relentlessly Obsessed-The Tactical Approach with Aaron Love, USAF (Ret.)
Recovery is a marathon, but it requires a tactical mindset. Mike Van Meter and Aaron Love join forces to treat the path to sobriety like the mission it is. By blending the "Recovery is Possible" philosophy with the "Ones Ready" commitment to excellence, this podcast provides listeners with a...
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Episode 186 - From Addiction to Recovery: Better Off for Having Had It
In this episode, Mike and Lillie explore a radical perspective on recovery: the idea that you are actually better off having walked through the fire of addiction than if you had never struggled at all. Moving beyond standard "sobriety" talk, they dive into the psychological and spiritual...
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Episode 185 - Problem Drinker or Alcoholic: How Couples Can Recover Together
In this episode, Mike and Lillie tackle one of the most confusing questions in recovery: “Am I just a problem drinker, or am I an alcoholic?” Through Mike's personal story and their honest conversation as a couple, they explore the early warning signs he minimized, how his drinking impacted their...
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Episode 184 - Letting Go of Resentments: The Road to Real Freedom
In this episode, Mike takes a deep dive into one of the most powerful forces that can hold us back in recovery and in life - resentments. Drawing from his own experiences in addition recovery and years in counseling, Mike explores what resentments really are, how they quietly shape our emotions…
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Episode 183 - Finding Purpose to Achieve Long Term Recovery
In this episode, join Mike and Lillie as they unpack the vital role of purpose in sustaining recovery. Drawing from Mike’s relapses, multiple treatment stints, and eventual sobriety breakthrough, this episode reveals how discovering a “higher purpose” transformed his journey from despair to…
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Episode 182 - Twelve Step Meeting Fatigue
In their kickoff video podcast of 2026, Mike and Lillie take an honest look at “12-step meeting fatigue” – that worn-out feeling people can get when recovery seems to revolve around nothing but meetings. Drawing on Mike's own experience and years of working with addicts, families, and veterans,...
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Episode 181 - William Person: The Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen
In this episode, Mike speaks with William Person who is a former nine-year Team USA Bobsled athlete whose career left him battling the devastating effects of CTE. At his lowest point, he could barely get up off the floor, lost in confusion, depression, intense headaches, and a deteriorating…
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Episode 180 - Name It to Tame It
In this episode Mike Van Meter discusses the topic "Name It to Tame It". The discussion centers around emotional labeling-a neuroscience-backed tool to calm overwhelming feelings. Drawing from his experience, Mike shares stories, strategies, steps for sobriety and resilience. This episode is…
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Episode 179 - Laura Lindsey: Heroes on the Water
In this episode, we sit down with Laura Lindsey from Heroes on the Water to explore how time on the water is helping veterans, first responders, and their families heal from stress and trauma through kayak fishing and the outdoors. Laura shares how Heroes on the Water builds community, lowers...
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Episode 178 - Recovery is Hard but not Impossible
In this episode, Mike and Lillie discuss the core idea that recovery from addiction is difficult but not impossible, using the rigorous training of Navy Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) Training as a compelling analogy. The key strategy for tackling overwhelming challenges, whether SEAL...
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Episode 177 - Taylor Cavanaugh: Journey of Recovery from Rock Bottom to Redemption
From Navy SEAL to jail to the French Foreign Legion and to recovery-Taylor Cavanaugh's story is one of ultimate resilience. Join Mike Van Meter and Taylor as they share their truths on this episode of Recovery is Possible. taylorcavanaugh.com YouTube: TCAV TV Instagram: tcavofficial Please visit...
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Episode 176 - Tony Crescenzo: Intelligent Waves and Recovery
In this compelling episode, host Mike Van Meter sits down with Tony Crescenzo, President and CEO of Intelligent Waves and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, to explore the powerful intersection of recovery, resilience, and leadership. Tony shares his personal journey navigating the complex emotional...
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Episode 175 - Amber Hollingsworth: Put the Shovel Down
In this episode, I sit down with Amber Hollingsworth, the creator and host of the YouTube channel Put the Shovel Down. As an Addiction Recovery Specialist, Amber shares valuable insights on focusing on what's going right in recovery and the importance of building healthy relationships along the...
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Episode 174 - The Deception of Denial
In this episode, we explore how the disease of addiction can convince you that you don't have it. We take a closer look at the defense mechanisms and cognitive distortions that fuel denial-such as rationalization, minimization, self-deception, blame-shifting, and justification. We also share...
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Episode 173 - Saying No: Real Talk on Social Drinking Pressures
Peer pressure is not just for teens; adults in early and even long-term recovery can experience strong pressures in social or work settings. There is no shame in protecting sobriety, and in this episode, we discuss how you can handle the peer pressure that often arises in social situations.…
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Episode 172 - Using Genetics to Predict Addiction: James Piacentino and Thrive Genetics
Where does addiction really come from, and how can we get ahead of it? In this episode, I interview James Piacentino, Co-Founder and CEO of Thrive Genetics to explore how genetics may hold the key to predicting addiction risk. We dive into the groundbreaking role of genetic insights in guiding...
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Episode 171 - The Living Amends
A living amends is more than apologizing; it's about radically changing one's behavior and lifestyle to support ongoing sobriety and healing relationships. In this episode, we dispel myths about the living amends, encourage practical change, and provide hope for long-term growth. Please visit our...
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Episode 170 - There Is No Secret to Recovery
In this episode we discuss how people in long-term recovery have been able to achieve this incredible goal. We discuss the realities of early recovery from addiction and how families can support their loved ones during this phase. In recovery there is no simple secret or quick fix, and we focus…
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Episode 169 - Stigma and Misconceptions about Medically Assisted Treatment
In this episode Lillie and I discuss the stigma surrounding Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT). MAT integrates FDA approved medication and counseling to support people in recovery from addiction, primarily opioid or alcohol use disorders. Medications help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings,...
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Episode 168 - Influence Your Recovery: Motivation, Ability, and Lasting Sobriety
In this episode, Mike and Lillie dive into Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change by Joseph Grenny and his colleagues. The book explores the interconnected roles of motivation and ability, and we reflect on how these ideas can be applied to the recovery journey. By embracing these...
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Episode 167 - Recovery Meetings and Addressing Family Needs
In this episode we discuss the importance of recovery meetings, address family needs as well as how to build boundaries together. Early recovery is tough, but it is even harder if the person in recovery and the family members are not working together. We discuss strategies to make early recovery...
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Episode 166 - Another Year of Sobriety!
On this Sober Anniversary Mike and Lillie discuss what the journey has been like, and what it took to get here. Also, they discuss how life has changed, and how the recovery journey ebbs and flows. Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com Music-John Williams and the Vienna...
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Episode 165 - Mike and Lillie Discuss Early Recovery
In this episode, we announce the changing of the name of this podcast. Mike and Lillie discuss early recovery and how families can support their loved one. Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III,...
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Episode 164 - Tom Anderson: "Begin to Live Again"
In this episode retired Fire Fighter Tom Anderson discusses the dangers of self-diagnosis and not being honest with yourself. After suffering deep depression, Tom learned he was not alone in his suffering and that other people share our story. Join us as Tom discusses his tale of recovery and how...
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Episode 163 - Rowing Across the Atlantic: Mark Pfetzer from Guardian Initiatives
Mark Pfetzer from Guardian Initiatives was previously on this show and discussed plans to cross the Atlantic Ocean in order to raise awareness about suicide. Mark and his team completed the trip and shares what this experience was like. www.row3000.com Music-John Williams and the Vienna...
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Episode 162 - Listening to Others
In order to attain long-term sobriety a couple of things must happen. First, you must WANT recovery more than ANYTHING ELSE. The second thing is you must listen to others that have achieved long-term sobriety. Sounds simple...it really is, but we make it difficult. Music-John Williams and the...
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Episode 161 - Follow The Plan
When we come into recovery, we may think we are doing everything right. However, upon closer inspection, we may not be doing all we think we are. I this episode I discuss following the plan and tracking what you are actually doing. Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The...
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Episode 160 - Realizing Recovery is Possible
After taking a break for about half a year the podcast is back. In this episode I discuss why I took some time off and how recovery was an integral part of me being able to pursue the journey I was on this year. Recovery certainly is possible! Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic...
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Episode 159 - Eric Kreitz on Helping Organizations Reintegrate Those in Recovery
We spend a lot of time discussing what it takes to get into recovery, however, today's guest discusses what employers can do to assist the employees returning to work after treatment. This is a discussion few people have in the recovery world, and I know you will gain insight into the "other…
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Episode 158 - Rob Carson - Mind, Body, and Spirit
Today I interviewed nationally syndicated radio host Rob Carson. Rob came to recovery seemingly "overnight", but as he explains there was a long road traveled before the "miracle" occurred. Rob's story demonstrates that each of us has a different path, but we all come to the same conclusion. We...
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Episode 157 - Be the Solution, Not the Problem
We can stay sober in the midst of tragedy; and in this episode, I discuss how it is important that we help those that are also suffering the tragedy we are experiencing. Using only makes the problem worse, and then you become part of the problem. We want to be part of the solution, and through...
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Episode 156 - We Are Responsible for Our Recovery
No one else is responsible for your recovery, and no one else is the cause for your using. We alone are responsible for our recovery, and in this episode, I discuss this concept and how we can take responsibility for our use and what we need to do to begin the process of getting well. We can and…
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Episode 155 - Not Relapsing After a Tragedy
My younger brother passed away a couple of weeks ago. When you look at the list of reasons why people relapse, this would be near the top. I am grateful that this did not happen to me, and I wanted to take this opportunity to discuss what the process of getting through this kind of event is like....
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Episode 154 - What It Takes To Be Sober
In this episode we discuss what it takes to be sober. People in long-term sobriety tend to do similar things, and people who continue to relapse also tend to do similar things. I discuss where our focus needs to be and how you can change your mind set for success. This episode is sponsored by...
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Episode 153 - The "I Get To List in Life" with John Monaghan
John Monaghan is a retired Chief of Police who now works in mental health, resilience, and Post Traumatic Growth. In this episode we discuss how to help people turn their struggle into strength, especially when it comes to addiction. John brings home the point, "Don't be afraid to ask for help…
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Episode 152 - Hilary Phelps on Coaching and Wellness
Hilary Phelps discusses the benefits of coaching in regard to wellness and recovery. Hilary has an enormous amount of experience with recovery and discusses the unique challenges, expectations, and responsibilities they face on a daily basis. Hilary also discusses her new coaching platform she...
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Episode 151 - Fantasizing About What Our Future Can Be
Everyone that is attempting to get into recovery from drugs or alcohol has a vision of what they want their future to be. This does not have to be just a fantasy; it can be a reality. In this episode I discuss how we can make this vision a reality. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral...
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Episode 150 - Looking at What Recovery Does for Us
Many people will tell you what drinking and drugging does for them, but rarely do they discuss what it does to them. In this episode, I challenge the notion that drinking and drugging helps you in any way. Instead, I discuss what sobriety does for you and challenge you to be willing to recommit...
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Episode 149 - Getting Through the Holidays Sober
The Holiday Season is difficult for many people, but especially for those in recovery. How do you get through the season without a relapse? In this episode I discuss ways tools you can use to get through the holidays with your recovery intact. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral…
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Episode 148 - We Can Do Hard Things in Recovery
Being in recovery is certainly a bonus when we set out to do really hard things in life. In fact, we find that those around us who are not in recovery struggle more than we do. We have a program, they don't! In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss how a program of recovery keeps us centered…
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Episode 147 - Recovery is Work
Recovery is work, and those that get into long-term recovery do the work. In this episode I discuss how we can change our view of recovery and how to focus on what is important. Recovery is about changing your thinking and surrounding yourself with those that are share the same journey and...
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Episode 146 - Tapping into Your Energy in Recovery
People, Places, Things, and Situations can sap our energy and put us on the path to a relapse if we are not careful. We must remain balanced in our energy levels, but life throws us "curve balls" and this is sometimes easier said than done. In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss tools you can...
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Episode 145 - The Power of Becoming a Whole Person
One of the most important parts of recovery is returning yourself to wholeness. In this episode, Aparna Sain and I discuss "The Power of Becoming a Whole Person" and the tools we need to achieve this goal. www.aparnasain.com This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out...
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Episode 144 - Making a Decision for Recovery
How do we decide to do something we know we need to do? How do we decide to get sober? Sobriety is not about knowledge, it is about action, and until we make that commitment we are going to struggle. In this episode Aparna Sain and I explore this topic and discuss the difference between making a...
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Episode 143 - The Importance of Relationships
Addiction is isolation, and recovery is community. In this episode, Aparna Sain, host of the Mindful Nation radio show on WERA 96.7 and I discuss why relationships are vital for both a spiritual journey and recovery. This is a message we all need to hear whether we need to be in recovery or would...
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Episode 142 - Focusing on Mental Health
Our government needs to do more to help with Mental Health and Addiction issues. In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss what can and should be done to help the public with this serious issue. Addiction is on the rise and there does not seem to be any let up in sight. We are going to have to…
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Episode 141 - The Spiritual Awakening in Recovery
Developing your spiritual life in recovery is essential, but how do we do that? What does that mean? In this episode, Aparna Sain and I discuss the importance of developing a spiritual foundation in your life and how this can be integrated into recovery. Aparna is the host of Mindful Nation which...
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Episode 140 - Mindfulness with Aparna Sain
I recorded this episode live at the WERA 96.7 studio in Arlington, Virginia. Aparna Said joins me as we discuss mindfulness and meditation and how it can be used as a tool in recovery. Aparna discusses how she came into the practice of mindfulness and how it has helped her in her life journey.…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Mike has seen the devastating impact of addiction in his life, work, and community. His career began as a Navy helicopter pilot and later as a Corrections Officer, DC Police Officer, and FBI Agent. While an instructor at the FBI Academy, he developed a course on addiction, PTSD, suicide, and domestic violence. After retiring in 2019, he earned a Master’s in Addiction Counseling and now works as a Behavioral Health Therapist at a major nonprofit hospital.With almost 14 years of long-term sobriety, Mike, together with his wife Lillie, leads candid, compassionate conversations on addiction, recovery, and mental health—breaking stigma, offering support, and sharing resources. He also interviews guests who bring unique perspectives and lived experiences, reminding everyone that recovery is possible and no one has to face these struggles alone.To connect with Mike and Lillie, visit vanmeterwellnessolutions.com.
HOSTED BY
Mike Van Meter
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Recovery is Possible Podcast have?
Recovery is Possible Podcast currently has 189 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Recovery is Possible Podcast about?
Mike has seen the devastating impact of addiction in his life, work, and community. His career began as a Navy helicopter pilot and later as a Corrections Officer, DC Police Officer, and FBI Agent. While an instructor at the FBI Academy, he developed a course on addiction, PTSD, suicide, and...
How often does Recovery is Possible Podcast release new episodes?
Recovery is Possible Podcast publishes regularly with 189 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Recovery is Possible Podcast?
You can listen to Recovery is Possible Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Recovery is Possible Podcast?
Recovery is Possible Podcast is created and hosted by Mike Van Meter.
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