Talking Addiction & Recovery

Paul Schulte, EMDR specialist and former finance executive, explores the growing role of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in treating trauma, PTSD, addiction, and other mental health concerns. Drawing from his experience working with clients across multiple countries and languages, Paul explains how EMDR seeks to help individuals process traumatic memories that may remain emotionally unresolved. He discusses why he believes EMDR offers advantages over traditional talk therapy for many trauma-related conditions and predicts that its use will continue to expand significantly in the coming years.The conversation explores the neuroscience behind trauma, including the relationship between emotional and cognitive processing, and how EMDR aims to help individuals integrate difficult experiences into a coherent personal narrative. Paul describes recurring themes he has observed among clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, noting similarities in emotional healing processes across languages and countries. The discussion also examines the role of grief, self-forgiveness, acceptance, and recovery from shame in trauma treatment.Paul shares his work supporting mental health professionals in Ukraine following the Russian invasion, including training psychologists to address the anticipated wave of trauma-related disorders among soldiers and civilians. These experiences contributed to the development of the iMover app, a digital platform designed to increase access to EMDR-based interventions. Available in multiple languages, the app includes programs addressing PTSD, addiction, burnout, sexual trauma, and recovery from narcissistic relationships.  The episode concludes with a broader conversation about hope, resilience, and the belief that healing remains possible even after profound trauma.About the GuestPaul Schulte is a certified EMDR therapist and addiction counselor based in Barcelona, Spain. He spent 22 years as an international banker across Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore before retraining through UCLA's School of Family Medicine. Over the past two decades he has helped hundreds of people recover from trauma, PTSD, addiction, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and burnout. He has written five books on mental health, taught at eleven universities across four continents, and last year spent two months in Kyiv training fifty Ukrainian Army psychologists in EMDR while working directly with soldiers and refugees. He recently developed imover, an app offering self-guided EMDR audio sessions for people who cannot easily access a therapist. He has been sober for 21 years.Links:Website: https://emdrbypaul.comimover app: https://apps.apple.com/app/imover-emdr/id6763722061Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paul_schulte_emdrPsychreg article: https://www.psychreg.org/wall-street-war-zones-therapist-bringing-emdr-your-smartphone/Contact: [email protected] the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What happens when we finally ask the questions we've been carrying for decades?  Jason Prokowiew joins us to discuss his powerful memoir, War Boys: A Father and Son Memoir. The book explores Jason's journey of interviewing his father about surviving childhood under Nazi occupation during World War II and the lasting impact those experiences had on generations that followed.Jason shares how a series of recorded conversations with his father evolved into a unique "braided memoir" that intertwines wartime survival with present-day reflections on family, identity, and healing. Together, we explore the complexities of generational trauma, the difference between surviving and thriving, and why understanding our family histories can help us better understand ourselves.The conversation also examines the challenges of having difficult conversations with loved ones, the importance of patience and support when exploring family stories, and how narratives continue to evolve long after they are first told.Whether you work in behavioral health, are interested in trauma and resilience, or have ever wondered about the untold stories within your own family, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of listening and connection.About the GuestJason Prokowiew received the PEN America/Jean Stein Grant for Literary Oral History and a Fulbright Scholar Award for  War Boys. His writing has appeared in The North American Review, The Guardian, Salon, Roxane Gay's "The Audacity," and on WORLD Channel's Stories from the Stage, where his piece "Sing" is the most watched in the show's history. He's received support from Bread Loaf, Tin House, Ragdale, and the Mass Cultural Council. He lives on a lake in Massachusetts with his husband Dave and their greyhound Champ.Links:https://www.jasonwprokowiew.com/www.warboysbook.comhttps://www.instagram.com/jasonprokowiew/https://bsky.app/profile/jasonprokowiew.bsky.socialhttps://www.amazon.com/War-Boys-Father-Son-Memoir/dp/1949487709Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What does courage really mean? Many people think courage means being fearless, but Ann White offers a different perspective: courage is taking a necessary risk and trusting God with the outcome.In this episode of the Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Ann White, founder and CEO of Courage for Life, to discuss her personal journey from fear-based decision-making to a life grounded in faith, confidence, and hope. Ann shares how her own healing process led to the development of the Seven Steps to Courage and the creation of a ministry that now serves individuals in prisons, addiction treatment settings, churches, and communities around the world.The conversation explores the relationship between courage, vulnerability, and healing. We discuss how courage is required not only to face our own struggles but also to show up for others with compassion, acceptance, and understanding. Ann also shares her Four Foundations of Health framework, highlighting the interconnected roles of emotional, spiritual, relational, and physical well-being.Whether you're navigating recovery, supporting a loved one, working in a helping profession, or seeking greater confidence in your own life, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement for taking the next step forward.  Join us for an inspiring conversation about hope, healing, and the courage to move forward one step at a time.About the GuestAnn White is an internationally known author, speaker, and passionate Bible teacher. She founded her global ministry, Courage For Life, out of a calling to share with others how God and His Word brought restoration to her life and marriage. Having personally experienced God’s grace, salvation, and the life-changing power of the Bible, Ann’s desire is to extend this same love, mercy, and encouragement to others, so they too may be reconciled to God. Ann is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She and her family reside in Belleair Shores, FL.Links:Email: [email protected] Website: https://courageforlife.org/ann-white/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GodGivesCourage/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annwhitecfl/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CourageForLifeSupport the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What does recovery look like beyond simply stopping a behavior?  Sal Guarino, recovery coach, community engagement specialist with eVive, and longtime advocate for gambling recovery explores that question with us. Sal shares his personal journey from cocaine and gambling addiction to a career dedicated to helping others find hope, purpose, and lasting recovery.The conversation explores the often-overlooked connection between stimulant use and gambling addiction, Sal's evolution from a traditional 12-step approach to a more forward-looking recovery coaching model, and the importance of helping people reconnect with their strengths, goals, and dreams.We also discuss how technology can play a positive role in recovery through platforms like eVive, which provides daily support, peer connection, accountability, and encouragement for individuals looking to stop or manage their gambling.Whether you're a clinician, person in recovery, family member, or someone interested in behavioral health, this episode offers practical insights into how recovery approaches can work together to help people not only survive—but thrive.About the GuestSal Guarino is the Co-founder of The Recovery Partners and a Community Engagement Specialist with the Evive Community, where he helps individuals and families affected by gambling addiction through recovery coaching, family support, and long-term recovery planning. After overcoming his own struggles with gambling addiction, Sal turned his lived experience into a mission to help others build meaningful, connected, gambling-free lives rooted in honesty, accountability, and personal growth. Known for his direct yet compassionate approach, he speaks openly about the hidden emotional and financial toll of gambling addiction and the possibility of lasting recovery.Links:Website:https://www.therecoverypartners.com/https://www.salguarino.com/Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salguarino/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@therecoverypartnersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/[email protected] the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this episode of the Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Kim Freudenberg, founder of Parents Standing Together, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families affected by youth gambling addiction.Kim shares her family's personal journey after discovering her son's gambling addiction, which began at just 11 years old through video game skins and online gambling opportunities hidden within gaming environments. What started as a seemingly harmless gaming activity eventually evolved into a serious gambling problem, highlighting how accessible gambling has become for today's youth.Together, we explore how gambling is increasingly woven into video games, sports culture, online platforms, and social media, often exposing young people to gambling-related behaviors years before they encounter alcohol or other substances. Kim discusses the warning signs parents should watch for, the stigma families experience, and the critical need for earlier conversations about gambling risks.The conversation also examines the impact gambling addiction has on parents, siblings, and entire families, while highlighting the importance of support groups, education, and compassionate intervention. Kim explains how Parents Standing Together is working to provide resources, advocacy, and community support for families navigating these challenges.Whether you're a parent, educator, coach, clinician, or someone interested in youth behavioral health, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the fastest-growing and least-discussed public health concerns affecting young people today.About the GuestBio: Kim Freudenberg is President of Parents Standing Together. After discovering that her 19 year-old son was struggling with gambling, Kim committed to learning about gambling disorder and its impact on families. In early 2025, she organized a peer support group for parents, which grew into Parents Standing Together, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about youth gambling and supporting families affected by gambling harm. Kim holds the International Gambling Recovery Specialist certification and is deeply committed to education, connection, and prevention to protect young people and support parents.Links:parentsstandingtogether.orghello@parentsstandingtogether.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-freudenberg-igrs-a7a43326b/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What happens when the questions never get answered?In this powerful episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery, author, mental health advocate, and suicide loss survivor Lisa Sugarman sits down to discuss her book, Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss.Lisa shares the deeply personal story behind the book, including the unique and meaningful role her mother played in helping bring the project to life. Together, they explore the complexities of grief after suicide, the search for answers that may never come, and the reality that healing is not about "moving on" but learning how to move forward while carrying loss with us.The conversation examines the unique challenges faced by those grieving a suicide, including guilt, shame, unanswered questions, and the ongoing struggle to find meaning after tragedy. Lisa discusses why she intentionally integrated practical tools, resources, and coping strategies throughout her book, providing readers with support alongside her personal story.Lisa challenges the common notion that time alone heals grief. Instead, she explores the value of community, connection, support groups, therapy, mindfulness, journaling, and other tools that can help individuals navigate loss and build resilience.The episode concludes with a discussion of Lisa's Help Hub, a free online resource directory designed to connect individuals, families, clinicians, and communities with trusted mental health, crisis, and grief-support resources.Whether you have experienced suicide loss personally, support someone who has, or work in the helping professions, this conversation offers compassion, practical guidance, and a reminder that hope can exist alongside grief.  Healing from suicide loss is not about finding all the answers. It is about learning to live alongside grief, building support, accessing helpful tools, and discovering that hope can remain present even in the midst of profound loss. About the GuestLisa Sugarman is a three-time suicide loss survivor, author, and leading mental health advocate. She’s a crisis counselor with The Trevor Project and a storyteller with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), using her lived experience to help others heal through connection and community.She’s also the Founder of The HelpHUB™, a free online platform offering inclusive mental health resources, crisis support, and treatment options for every community. Lisa cohosts The Survivors Podcast and is the author of Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (2026) and three previous books on parenting and embracing our perfect imperfectness.A Safe Place facilitator and board member with Samaritans Southcoast, Lisa’s work has been featured on the Mental Health Television Network and on platforms like Calmerry, Recovery.com, Healthline Parenthood, Grown & Flown, TODAY Parents, The Washington Post, and Psychology Today. She lives and writes just north of Boston. Links:Facebook: facebook.com/thelisasugarmanYoutube: youtube.com/@thehelphubonyoutubeTikTok: tiktok.com/@thehelphubontiktokInstagram: instagram.com/thehelphub.coLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/lisa-sugarman-she-her-hers-16925b69/My book Surviving: https://a.co/d/0298h9gy Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this episode of the Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Eli Singer, author of Offline Now: A Practical Guide to Healthy Digital Balance, to explore how our relationships with screens, social media, and technology impact mental health, recovery, and everyday life.Drawing from decades of experience in digital culture and coaching individuals with ADHD, Eli shares a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to digital balance that moves beyond willpower, shame, or rigid screen-time rules. The conversation dives into Eli’s four-quadrant matrix framework—Ready, Overwhelmed, Stuck, and Unconcerned—and how this model can help clinicians, families, and individuals better understand digital habits without labeling or blaming.We also discuss how conversations about screen use can be integrated into clinical assessments, why setbacks should be viewed as learning opportunities, and what emerging technologies like AI may mean for future relationships with devices and digital companionship.This episode offers practical insight for clinicians, people in recovery, educators, parents, and anyone trying to build a healthier relationship with technology.About the GuestEli Singer is a Toronto-based founder, writer, and speaker focused on helping families build healthier relationships with technology. He is the author of Offline.now: A Practical Guide to Healthy Digital Balance and the founder of Offline.now, a new wellness platform dedicated to helping families achieve healthy digital balance in a realistic, non-judgmental way.Eli’s approach is grounded in the belief that lasting change comes from confidence, not willpower. Rather than promoting abstinence, alarmism, or “all-or-nothing” digital detoxes, Offline.now offers practical micro-steps and simple frameworks families can use immediately - especially during common friction points like mornings, homework transitions, bedtime, and screen-time boundaries. The platform also includes a growing Digital Wellness Directory, connecting families with vetted professionals - therapists, coaches, and specialists - who can support issues ranging from screen-time conflict and digital dependency to sleep, focus, and family dynamics.Before launching Offline.now, Eli built a career at the intersection of behavior, media, and modern culture. He founded one of Canada’s early social media agencies and worked with leading brands and institutions, giving him a front-row seat to how technology and design influence the “attention economy”, habit formation, and everyday well-being. His work has been featured in Harvard Business Review.Links:Take the quiz - https://offline.now/quiz/Homepage - https://offline.nowADHD & Anxiety resource page - https://offline.now/adhd/adhd-anxiety-the-brain-how-screens-harm-your-focus/Directory homepage - https://offline.now/experts/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

This episode features Davina Mena, tribal liaison for the Arizona Division of Problem Gambling, discussing the importance of relationship-building, cultural humility, and authentic communication when working alongside tribal communities.The conversation explores what tribal liaisons actually do, why many professionals are still unfamiliar with the role, and how tribal liaisons help bridge communication and collaboration between tribal communities and state agencies. Davina shares why listening first matters more than arriving with predetermined solutions and explains how trust is built through genuine human connection.The discussion also challenges traditional Western approaches to treatment and prevention, particularly in problem gambling services. Storytelling, community, and relationship-centered conversations are highlighted as meaningful ways to engage tribal communities more effectively than statistics or symptom-focused models alone.This episode is a thoughtful conversation about trust, culture, connection, and the future of problem gambling prevention and recovery support.About the GuestDavina Mena, the first tribal liaison for the Arizona Division of Problem Gambling, serves as a bridge between tribal communities and the division. She focuses on addressing problem gambling by promoting the prevention and treatment through culture revitalization and community empowerment. Davina has several years of experience ranging from trauma-informed direct practice to community outreach and prevention. Davina is a 4th generation Tucsonan, proud Chicana and holds a Masters degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. Links:DPG Website: problemgambling.az.govImmediate problem gambling supports:Text NEXTSTEP to 53342 Call 1-800-NEXT-STEPChat With us on our website, ProblemGambling.az.gov Follow us on Facebook at Arizona Division of Problem Gambling X at ArizonaDPG Email: [email protected] Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Medical anthropologist and author Elizabeth F.S. Roberts joins the Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast to discuss her thought-provoking book, In Praise of Addiction: How We Can Learn to Love Dependency in a Damaged World.Drawing on years of research in Mexico City, Roberts explores a radically different way of understanding addiction—not as the opposite of connection, but as a form of connection itself. She examines how cultural beliefs about independence, self-control, and dependency shape the way we think about substance use, recovery, and human relationships.In this conversation, we discuss:How the meaning of "addiction" has changed throughout historyThe difference between addiction and vice in Mexican cultural perspectivesWhy shame and isolation often worsen addiction-related harmsHow American individualism influences treatment and recovery approachesWhat soda consumption in Mexico can teach us about addictionWhy dependency may be a universal human experienceThe role of community, belonging, and connection in recoveryThis episode challenges many commonly held assumptions about addiction and offers a fresh lens for clinicians, people in recovery, family members, and anyone interested in understanding human behavior more deeply.About the GuestElizabeth F. S. Roberts is professor of anthropology at the University of Michigan and the author of In Praise of Addiction: How We Can Learn To Love Dependency in a Damaged World and God’s Laboratory: Assisted Reproduction in the Andes.  Since 2013, she has participated in collaborative environmental health research in Mexico City.  She, along with many family members, has struggled with addiction. Links:E-mail: [email protected]://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691245805/in-praise-of-addiction?srsltid=AfmBOoospzenUCk2UttASSl3jm03ctqyyjDDj04eEl4MZGhJLTMsDN2Hhttps://sites.lsa.umich.edu/elizabethroberts/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Austin Taylor never expected a gambling sponsorship to change the course of his life. A software engineer, military veteran, and Twitch streamer, Austin accepted a crypto casino sponsorship in 2021 that quickly evolved from a side opportunity into a devastating gambling addiction. Within two years, he had lost millions of dollars, damaged important relationships, and entered inpatient treatment in search of recovery.In this powerful episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery, Austin shares his personal journey through gambling addiction, the challenges he encountered while trying to find specialized treatment, and the lessons he learned throughout recovery. He discusses the unique nature of gambling disorder, the growing accessibility of sports betting and online gambling, and why recovery can be especially difficult when money itself becomes a trigger.Austin also introduces Cope Compass, a free platform designed to help individuals affected by gambling addiction find specialized providers, access recovery tools, connect with peer support, and manage gambling urges between counseling sessions. The conversation explores how technology can be leveraged to improve access to care and support individuals during the critical moments when they need help most.Whether you are a clinician, person in recovery, family member, or someone interested in understanding the evolving gambling landscape, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the fastest-growing behavioral health challenges today.Recovery doesn't happen only during the hours spent in counseling.   It also happens between sessions that don't always match office hours. This conversation explores what meaningful support can look like during those moments.About the GuestAustin Taylor is the founder of Cope Compass, a real-time recovery-support app for people struggling with gambling and other behavioral addictions. A U.S. Air Force veteran, he built Cope Compass to reach people in the moment that matters most: 2am, mid-urge, in the gap between a trigger and a bet. It pairs a real-time intervention engine with peer support, meetings, and progress tracking. Links:Download the app (iPhone & Android): copecompass.com/downloadTikTok: tiktok.com/@copecompassContact: [email protected] Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this episode of the Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast, Dr. Rosenna Bakari, author of 7 Exits: Leave Behind What No Longer Serves You, shares a powerful conversation about empowerment, recovery, shame, healing, and personal transformation.The discussion explores how empowerment differs from traditional psychology’s focus on pathology and mental illness. Rosenna shares why people often struggle more with leaving familiar situations than with knowing where they want to go, and how understanding the function of behaviors can create deeper and more meaningful change.Topics covered in this podcast episode include:Empowerment in addiction recoveryShame and self-forgivenessComfort culture vs true restRisk-taking and personal growthTrauma and adverse childhood experiencesWorldview exploration in counselingHealing beyond addictive behaviorsThis conversation highlights the importance of addressing the underlying experiences beneath addiction while encouraging listeners to recognize their own capacity for growth, healing, and change.What keeps people stuck in unhealthy patterns — even when they know they need change?About the Guest:Dr. Rosenna Bakari is a leadership consultant, empowerment expert, and author of the upcoming book Seven Exits: Leaving Behind What No Longer Serves You. With a background in psychology and educational leadership, she has spent decades helping individuals and organizations create meaningful change through empowerment and self-awareness. Earlier in her career, Dr. Bakari worked in the field of addiction and recovery for several years, supporting individuals and families through the challenges of healing, transformation, and rebuilding their lives. Today, her work bridges personal growth, leadership, and emotional wellness with a practical, empowering approach.Links:Website: transformation.sevenexits.com E-mail: [email protected] Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosenna-bakari-ph-d-b3120194/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sevenexits_rosennabakari/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What if the biggest challenges in behavioral health aren’t due to lack of effort—but how systems are designed?In this episode, we sit down with Isamu Pant, author of The Behavioral Health Fix, to explore a practical and refreshingly honest approach to improving care, staff satisfaction, and operations—without waiting for more resources.Drawing from experience in community behavioral health and scaling systems in high-performance environments, Isamu introduces the Find-Fix-Serve framework—a simple but powerful method to help organizations move from reactive problem-solving to intentional, sustainable change.This conversation challenges a typical reaction of “checking boxes” and instead invites leaders, clinicians, and teams to ask a more powerful question: Where do we actually want to be—and what’s the smallest step to get there?We also explore:Why behavioral health systems stay stuck in the same problemsHow to identify high-impact “levers” for changeThe role of human connection in an AI-driven futureAnd how reframing challenges can restore agency across all levels of careWhether you’re on the frontlines or in leadership, this episode offers a clear path forward—grounded in reality and built for action.About the Guest:Isamu Pant is the founder of Behavioral Health Fix and author of The Behavioral Health Fix: A Leader’s Guide to Better Care, Happier Staff, and Smoother Operations. He works directly with behavioral health and IDD executives to fix long‑standing operational problems and grow without burning out staff or putting care at risk, often in focused 30‑day sprints.Before launching Behavioral Health Fix, Isamu built the first analytics department and led organization-wide strategic initiatives in a 500‑person community behavioral health center, and later helped Amazon Web Services stand up and scale a new cybersecurity and early AI services organization. He now brings that combination back to the field to help leaders build the operational foundations, governance, and workflows that support better care and staff well‑being – and to layer AI on top of those foundations in ways that actually help, rather than chase tools for their own sake.Recent appearances include the opening keynote at the Behavioral Health AI Summit and the Behavioral Health Business “Perspectives” podcast on the field’s first AI‑related labor action. Links:Contact: [email protected] link: https://a.co/d/0gtbUpmiWebsite: https://www.behavioralhealthfix.com/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What role can movies play in addiction recovery?In this episode, Ted Perkins—author of Addicted in Film: Movies We Love About Habits We Hate and creator of Recovery Movie Meetups—joins the podcast to discuss how film can become a meaningful tool for healing, reflection, and recovery engagement.Drawing from a background in Hollywood as both a studio executive and screenwriter, Ted shares how his own recovery journey inspired him to watch 100 films focused on addiction and recovery over 100 days. That experience eventually evolved into a book, discussion guides, and a growing program now being used in treatment settings around the world.This conversation explores:How movies help people process addiction and recoveryThe balance between realism and glorification in filmRecovery as a heroic transformation storyWhy storytelling creates emotional connection and insightHow Recovery Movie Meetups became a structured clinical interventionThe future of AI-generated storytelling in treatment and recovery spacesFrom classic films to emerging technology, this episode examines how storytelling continues to shape the way people understand addiction, mental health, and recovery.About the GuestTed Perkins is the CEO and founder of Recovery Movie Meetups, an innovative program that transforms Hollywood films into structured, clinically meaningful mutual support experiences for addiction and mental health treatment. A longtime Hollywood screenwriter and media executive, his work bridges storytelling and behavioral health, using film to spark insight, emotional engagement, and lasting change.Perkins created Recovery Movie Meetups out of his own lived experience with alcohol use disorder, depression, and the psychological toll of constant “what-if” thinking—both personally and professionally as a writer. Drawing on the principles of cinematherapy, he developed a model that uses carefully curated films to help individuals explore addiction, mental health challenges, and recovery in a more accessible and less confrontational way.His program is now used in hundreds of treatment centers, recovery community organizations, sober homes, schools, and correctional settings across the United States and Canada. By combining film with guided discussion and structured workbooks, Perkins has created a scalable approach that helps participants identify with characters, examine their own behaviors, and engage more deeply in the recovery process.He is also the author of Addicted in Film: Movies We Love About the Habits We Hate, and continues to advance the use of narrative and visual storytelling as powerful tools for self-reflection, connection, and transformation in behavioral health. Links:www.recoverymoviemeetups.com Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this powerful episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery, we sit down with comedian, filmmaker, and author Lahna Turner to discuss her deeply personal documentary, Come What May, which chronicles the life, struggles, and legacy of legendary comedian Ralphie May.While audiences knew Ralphie May for his larger-than-life personality and comedic brilliance, the documentary reveals the private battles he faced with substance use, food addiction, health challenges, and the impact these struggles had on those closest to him.Lahna shares the emotional journey of creating a film built from raw, real-life footage that Ralphie himself wanted preserved and shared. We explore the similarities between substance use disorders and food addiction, the role of dopamine in addictive behaviors, and why food addiction often remains misunderstood despite affecting so many lives.The conversation also examines the challenges families face when supporting loved ones with addiction, the harmful stigma surrounding terms like "enabling," and the importance of compassion for those navigating impossible situations.This episode is a moving discussion about recovery, grief, family, resilience, and the power of storytelling to create understanding and hope.  Whether you work in addiction treatment, have been affected by addiction personally, or simply appreciate stories of resilience and humanity, this episode offers powerful insights and meaningful takeaways.About the GuestLahna Turner is a comedian, filmmaker, writer, producer, co-director, and published comic book author whose work spans stand-up, television, film, music, publishing, and documentary storytelling. For more than two decades, Lahna has built a loyal following with fearless comedy, sharp observations, and an unfiltered perspective on relationships, motherhood, grief, family, and the messy realities of life. Her credits include NBC, Comedy Central, Netflix, Hulu, VH1, Animal Planet, CMT, truTV, and SiriusXM. Known for blending stand-up with original music, Lahna’s one-hour special A Song About It and albums including If These Lips Could Talk, D!@k Jokes and Other Assorted Love Songs, and Limeade showcase her ability to find humor in life’s most uncomfortable truths. She is also the creator and published author of the four-book Pounds of Power comic series, and the producer and co-director of Come What May, the documentary chronicling the life, legacy, struggles, and impact of comedian Ralphie May. Whether on stage, on screen, or on the page, Lahna Turner tells stories that make people laugh, think, feel, and connect.Links:Documentary:Documentary website where you can find the trailer: ComeWhatMayFilm.comThe documentary is playing at the Marcus Majestic Theatre in Brookfield, Wisconsin where Lahna and Andrew will be present: Come What May with Lahna Turner In-Person Q&A | Now Showing at Marcus TheatresSocial Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lahnaturnerr/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LahnaTurnerVideosFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LahnaTurner/X: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FlahnaturnerComic book Pounds Of Power. There are 4 books.  The first came out in April. The other 3 are coming over the next few months:Foil collectors edition: PoundsOfPower.comRegular floppy: http://comixzone.com/pounds-of-power-1.htmlRalphie's orange Jacket that I've been taking it on the road with me:https://www.tiktok.com/@lahnaturneroffical/video/7622289865626963214https://www.tiktok.com/@lahnaturneroffical/video/7616453029239229709Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Prediction markets are changing the way people engage with risk, information, and even real-world events—and they may be the next major challenge in gambling and public health.In this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery, Abdullah Mahmood, a counselor at Maryhaven in Columbus, Ohio, joins to unpack the rapid rise of prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi. Unlike traditional sports betting, these platforms allow users to bet against one another on outcomes ranging from elections to global crises.Abdullah shares his journey into problem gambling treatment and highlights how these emerging platforms are already impacting clients—especially those transitioning from sports betting after exclusion. We explore the parallels between the gambling boom and the opioid epidemic, the ethical concerns of betting on real-world tragedies, and the growing integration of prediction markets into mainstream media.This conversation is a must-listen for clinicians, policymakers, and anyone concerned about the evolving landscape of gambling and its impact on individuals and communities.About the Guest:Abdullah Mahmood, LSW, LICDC-GAMB, ICGC-I, OCPS, ICPS, started working with clients at Maryhaven several years ago, before becoming the Administrative Coordinator of the Gambling Intervention Program. He has worked extensively in prevention, treatment, administration, as well as having direct services with clients with mental health concerns, clients with substance use disorder, and clients with disordered gambling.Abdullah attended Columbus State Community College for his associate’s degree, attended The Ohio State University, for his bachelor’s degree in social work, and lastly Cleveland State University for his master’s in social work. You can learn more about Abdullah and find ways to connect in the podcast notes.Links:https://maryhaven.com/gambling/https://www.gamfin.org Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rachel Docekal, CEO of the Hanley Foundation, to explore how one of the nation’s largest addiction-focused organizations is reshaping prevention, treatment, and recovery. Dr. Docekal shares insights into Hanley’s comprehensive model, serving communities across 34 counties in Florida through prevention programs, professional education, and treatment services. The conversation dives into emerging trends, including the rise of process addictions alongside a shift in substance use patterns where fewer people are drinking, but those who do are experiencing more severe consequences. Looking ahead, Dr. Docekal shares exciting developments, including a recovery-focused bookstore and coffee shop designed as a job training program for individuals transitioning out of treatment. This episode highlights the importance of evolving with the changing landscape of addiction—and the power of community, innovation, and family in long-term recovery.About the Guest:For more than two decades, Dr. Rachel Docekal has built a career focused on shifting from what is present to what is possible. Dr. Docekal comes to Hanley Foundation with the unique perspective of having previously served as the organization’s CEO from 2010 to 2015. Drawing on this experience, she now oversees board and donor relations, advancing strategies that support Hanley’s lifesaving programs and expansion initiatives. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Chatham College, a Master of Business Administration from the Katz Graduate School of Business at the University of Pittsburgh, and a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.Links:https://www.hanleycenter.org/https://hanleyfoundation.org/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What if we view someone’s journey through the “mosaic” approach to therapy, where individuals are seen as complex, evolving works of art rather than defined by a single mistake or diagnosis. Scott Stolarick, a Master’s-level psychotherapist licensed in Wisconsin and Illinois with over 30 years of experience in trauma and addiction work, discusses stigma, storytelling, and how writing—from poetry to clinical documentation—can become a powerful therapeutic tool.Scott shares the evolution of trauma-informed care—from a time when trauma was overlooked or minimized, especially in correctional settings, to today’s growing awareness of its impact on behavior, identity, and healing. Drawing from decades of work with court-ordered and clinically marginalized populations, Scott highlights how environments like jails and prisons can both reflect and reinforce trauma—for individuals and staff alike.We examine the future of trauma treatment, including the opportunities and risks of AI in mental health care, and why human connection remains essential in the healing process.About the Guest:Scott Stolarick is a licensed, trauma informed psychotherapist who has been practicing in the state of Illinois for 33 years. He is an experienced administrator and clinical supervisor as well as a seasoned clinician. Scott has Management and Leadership Certifications from the University of Notre Dame and Cornell University. Scott is currently the owner of Mosaic Pathway Counseling in Gurnee, Illinois.Links:Website: www.mosaicpathwaycounseling.org Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-stolarick-lcpc-cctp-298734252/YouTube: https://youtu.be/m8p0u5DPy6U Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

How much Is enough? Is money the ultimate goal and what happens if we get there?  How do we balance the survival of scarcity and the abundance of wealth?  In this episode, we sit down with John Coleman, author of Good Money: 6 Steps to Building a Financial Life with Purpose, to explore the powerful — and often overlooked — connection between money and well-being.Together, we unpack how financial mindsets formed in childhood shape our adult lives, relationships, and decision-making. John shares why money should be viewed as a tool rather than a destination, and how the pursuit of wealth can sometimes pull people further away from fulfillment.  This episode challenges the way we think about success, encouraging a shift from chasing wealth to building a life grounded in purpose, values, and connection.About the Guest:John Coleman is an investor, author, and speaker whose work explores the intersection of faith, purpose and finance. He serves as co-CEO of Sovereign’s Capital, a values-driven investment firm active in public equities, private equity and venture capital, and is a co-founder of the Faith Driven Investor movement. A frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review, his writing has also appeared in Forbes, The Washington Post, The New York Times, Financial Times and Los Angeles Times. His books include Passion & Purpose, The HBR Guide to Crafting Your Purpose and even a novel, Miracles. A graduate of Harvard Business School and the Harvard Kennedy School, Coleman and his wife live in Atlanta with their four children, pursuing the good life he teaches—one marked by purpose, generosity and faithful stewardship.Links:https://www.johnwilliamcoleman.com/meet-john/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwilliamcoleman/details/experience/ https://onpurpose.substack.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Good-Money-Building-Financial-Purpose/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What if love isn’t just something we feel—but something we are?  In this episode of the Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast, we sit down with David Cunningham, author of Your Love Does Matter, to explore transformation, grace, and the lasting impact of our daily interactions.  Drawing from decades of leadership—including 35 years with the Landmark Forum and now leading The Awakening—David shares the difference between change and transformation. While change often feels forced and fear-based, transformation creates new possibilities and empowers us from within.David wrote Your Love Does Matter as a conversational love letter, intentionally designed so readers experience love while reading—not just learn about it.  If you work in recovery, mental health, or simply want to live with greater intention, this conversation offers a powerful invitation: expand your love footprint.About the Guest:David Cunningham is a renowned transformational teacher, spiritual practitioner, and lifelong advocate for humanity. From humble beginnings in rural Pennsylvania to leading arguably the #1 transformational program on six continents. David's impact spans over 30 years as a senior program leader with Landmark Worldwide, where he helped more than 500,000 people unlock new levels of freedom, authenticity, and love. His leadership has supported communities in healing, executive leaders in evolving, and people from all walks of life in rediscovering what truly matters in their lives. His book, Your Love Does Matter: A Journey to New Consciousness and Expanding Your Love Footprint, is the distilled summary of all his life work. This book offers a profound path to healing, forgiveness, loving freely and fully, and spiritual growth, helping each of us reclaim the truth that we are here to love. Today, we'll explore David's incredible journey, his transformational teachings, and how each of us can expand our own love footprint in the world.Links:Website: Your Love Does Matter Website: https://www.yourlovedoes matter.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-w-cunningham/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidcunningham.official/# Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/David CunninghamAuthor YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidcunningham.official Book: Your Love Does Matter: A Journey to New Consciousness and Expanding Your Love Footprint - https://a.co/d/01CPtycgSupport the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Brian Hyman, author of Recovery with Yoga: Supportive Practices for Transcending Addiction, explores how yoga became a transformative part of his recovery journey.  Brian shares his path from alcohol addiction to sobriety and how yoga offered far more than physical movement. Through breath, mindfulness, and spiritual exploration, yoga became a powerful tool for emotional regulation, self-awareness, and resilience. He discusses the challenges of introducing yoga into treatment settings, the importance of integrating practice into daily life beyond the mat, and how stillness can become a strength rather than something to avoid. This conversation explores how yoga can help individuals in recovery manage cravings, sit with difficult emotions, and cultivate presence. Brian reminds us that recovery is not about perfection — it’s about perseverance, curiosity, and connection.About the Guest:Brian Hyman, RYT, is a dedicated yoga and meditation teacher, speaker, artist, and advocate in the field of addiction recovery, blending mindfulness, movement, and spiritual practice to support lasting transformation. He has been working at Cliffside Malibu since 2012, where he has helped thousands of individuals reconnect with themselves and build meaningful, sustainable lives in recovery.  His work extends to Insight Timer, where he shares guided practices that have supported more than one million people on their journey toward clarity and inner peace. Brian has been sober since 2009, and he brings authenticity, compassion, and lived experience to all his creative endeavors, including his Insight Timer recovery-themed audio courses. His accessible approach to recovery is universal and rooted in the belief that lasting recovery involves awakening the mind, caring for the body, and nurturing the spirit—creating a path not just to sobriety, but to a deeply fulfilling and meaningful life.Links to Books: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1611809908?tag=randohouseinc7986-20Shambhala: https://www.shambhala.com/recovery-with-yoga.htmlBarnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/recovery-with-yoga-brian-hyman/1143564142;jsessionid=AE1938B1DAAB488F5634DE0A24A000C1.prodny_store02-atgap03?ean=9781611809909Websites:Official site: www.brianhymanyoga.comCourses and content on Insight Timer: https://insighttimer.com/brianhymanyogaSocial Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianhymanyoga/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianhymanyoga/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brian.hyman.3Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery, we sit down with Caroline Beidler, author of When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide to Understanding Addiction.Caroline shares her deeply personal recovery journey, beginning in her teenage years, and how her lived experience shaped her work supporting families impacted by substance use disorder. Together, we explore what recovery really looks like beyond sobriety, and why families often feel lost in outdated narratives about addiction.This conversation challenges long-held ideas like “enabling” and reframes how we understand support, boundaries, and connection. Caroline emphasizes that recovery is not an individual process—it is relational, communal, and ongoing.We also dive into:Why families need education and accurate recovery informationThe emotional impact of grief and loss in addictionHow neuroscience and lived experience reshape recovery understandingPractical ways families can show up without shame or judgmentWhy hope is not passive—it’s an active recovery strategyThis episode is for anyone supporting a loved one, working in behavioral health, or seeking a more compassionate and informed understanding of addiction and recovery.About the Guest: Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and managing editor of Recovery.com, where she combines research and expert insight on addiction and mental health.  Drawing from her own recovery journey, she is the founder of the Women’s Recovery Leadership Foundation and helps others find healing through her newsletter and podcast, Circle of Chairs, which reaches thousands weekly.  Carline’s next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery, is a compassionate and practical guide to understanding addiction and supporting loved ones through recovery.  Links:https://www.carolinebeidler.com/ https://www.amazon.com/When-Love-Someone-Recovery-Understanding/dp/1400253977 Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this episode of the Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast, we sit down with Ranae Van Roekel — a former federal inmate turned advocate for criminal justice reform and trauma-informed care.Ranae shares her powerful journey from committing a federal crime to finding healing and purpose during incarceration. She speaks candidly about how trauma, addiction, and unaddressed pain shaped her decisions — and how prison became the unexpected space where she began confronting her past and rebuilding her future.Now the founder of Connecting to COPE, Ranae works to raise awareness about the deeper factors that lead to incarceration and the critical need for trauma-informed education both inside and outside correctional settings.This conversation explores:Why understanding the “why” matters more than focusing only on the “what”The role of education in reducing recidivismGaps in reentry coordination and supportTrauma treatment in incarceration settingsWhy compassion and second chances are essentialThis episode is a reminder that people are more than their worst decision — and that meaningful reform begins with understanding.About Ranae Van RoekelA mother, grandmother, wife, and advocate, Ranae served 36 months in federal prison – an experience that became her turning point. In confronting decades of buried trauma, she found clarity and purpose. Through Connecting to Cope, she now shares healing tools and education to help others break cycles of pain, rediscover their worth, and lead with compassion.Ranae’s message resonates deeply with audiences seeking growth, wellness, second chances, and authentic leadership. Her story reminds us that true influence starts with empathy – and that healing isn’t linear, but always possible.Links:Website: https://connectingtocope.com/#about Social Media:https://www.linkedin.com/company/connecting-to-cope/posts/?feedView=all Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What does it mean to grow up loving a parent whose mind is at war with reality?In this powerful episode, Pamela Waggoner shares the deeply personal story behind her book, He Never Let Go: Overcoming the Trauma of Mental Illness with God's Love. Pamela opens up about her childhood with a mother living with paranoid schizophrenia and a father overwhelmed by exhaustion and responsibility.She reflects on the survival strategies she developed — perfectionism, achievement, relentless activity — and how those coping mechanisms eventually led to emotional collapse. What looked like strength on the outside was masking unaddressed trauma and deep self-blame.This conversation explores:The hidden impact of parental mental illness on childrenWhat happens when treatment separates familiesPerfectionism and productivity as trauma responsesThe unexpected people who become lifelinesWriting as a path toward sibling healingReleasing blame and embracing compassionFaith, surrender, and discovering that you were never alonePamela’s message is clear: you do not have to carry burdens that were never yours. Freedom is possible. Healing is possible. And love — even in the darkest seasons — never lets go.About the Guest:In this gripping and heartfelt memoir, "He Never Let Go", Pamela, always trying to survive and had no time to dream takes you on an emotional journey through the depths of childhood trauma and the healing power of faith. From a young age, Pamela faced unimaginable challenges, enduring a childhood marked by neglect, rejection and emotional pain.  Yet, amidst the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged - a relationship with Jesus Christ. As Pamela shares her story of resilience and redemption, she vividly recounts the harrowing moments that shaped her early years, painting a raw and honest portrait of the impact of emotional trauma.Links:Website: https://www.pamelawaggonergood.com/ Book:https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=Bs2zQkmAhxcHn7xi9o7pnOninhM7VjSRYc2y7Zl9rV7 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQ9N19Z8?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_ZCWFXJWMHGCHPPJHKGNM&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_ZCWFXJWMHGCHPPJHKGNM&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_ZCWFXJWMHGCHPPJHKGNM&bestFormat=true Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Leah Shepherd, Executive Director of Victoria's Voice Foundation, to explore how one family’s tragedy became a national movement for drug prevention education and naloxone awareness. Founded by David and Jackie Siegel after the loss of their daughter Victoria Siegel in 2015, Victoria’s Voice works to equip youth, parents, and communities with tools to prevent substance use and overdose from happening. We also discuss the evolution of drug prevention in today’s world — including the influence of social media, changing perceptions, and the importance of creating safe spaces for honest conversations between parents and teens.  This episode is about prevention, compassion, and action.  Because awareness saves lives.About the Guest:Leah Shepherd serves as Executive Director of Victoria’s Voice Foundation, the national nonprofit dedicated to drug-prevention education, overdose awareness, and substance-use disorder prevention for families, youth, and communities. In this role, Leah leads the Foundation’s strategic efforts to expand and deepen its impact across programs including youth education (Save Our Kids), parent/caregiver/educator support (VITAL SIGNS), naloxone- access and awareness initiatives (Get. Give. Save.), and outreach to parents, schools, correctional institutions, and community networks. Under her leadership, Victoria’s Voice has helped positively impact the lives of more than one million students, parents, educators and community members nationwide through its evidence-based prevention and education efforts. Leah spearheaded the creation of National Naloxone Awareness Day, along with public-policy and advocacy efforts that support expanded access to lifesaving overdose-reversal medication. As a key public representative of Victoria’s Voice, she frequently engages in media interviews, public-speaking events, and high-visibility partnerships that amplify the Foundation’s mission. In her leadership capacity, Leah implements impactful events that drive the mission across partner channels and oversees all operational and financial controls in collaboration with the Foundation’s Board of Directors. Her leadership fosters passionate teamwork, strategic growth, and a steadfast commitment to protecting youth, empowering families, and strengthening communities nationwide.Links: Website: https://victoriasvoice.foundation/ Social Handles:Instagram--@VictoriasVoiceFoundationFacebook--@VictoriasVoice FoundationSupport the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What does responsible gambling actually mean—and who is responsible for it?Suzanne Trainor, Communications Manager and Public Information Officer for the Arizona Department of Gaming, joins this episode to explore the intersection of regulation, responsibility, and real-world impact. Suzanne shares her journey from working at DraftKings to now overseeing communications and public information for a state agency responsible for regulating casino gaming, sports betting, fantasy sports, and more. Together, we unpack the complexity of gambling regulation—from public concerns before legalization to the ongoing challenge of balancing access, consumer protection, and prevention.This conversation goes beyond surface-level definitions. Suzanne challenges the idea that responsible gambling and problem gambling are separate conversations—highlighting instead how deeply connected they are.   Whether you work in behavioral health, policy, gaming, or simply want to better understand the systems shaping gambling in the U.S., this episode offers a grounded and thoughtful look behind the curtain.About the Guest:Suzanne Trainor is the Communications Manager and Public Information Officer for the Arizona Department of Gaming, where she leads communications for the agency and its Division of Problem Gambling. Her work focuses on raising awareness around responsible gambling and connecting individuals and families with prevention and treatment resources.In her role, Suzanne helps communicate important information about Arizona’s gaming landscape, which includes tribal casinos, event wagering, fantasy sports, unarmed combat sports, and horse racing. Before joining the Department, she worked in corporate communications at DraftKings, giving her a unique perspective on both the industry and responsible gaming.Originally from Massachusetts, Suzanne now lives in Phoenix with her husband, Scott. She holds a Master of Public Administration from Suffolk University.Links:Email: [email protected] Free, online, and self-paced responsible gaming training offered by the Arizona Department of Gaming: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/arizona-responsible-gaming-training-webinar-tickets-1985855803165?aff=oddtdtcreatorVisit gaming.az.gov/responsiblegaming to learn about RG. Follow Arizona Division of Problem Gambling's new social media accounts including on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arizona-division-of-problem-gambling/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

With the expansion of sports betting and prediction markets - the question we often get asked is, “What about young men?”  Christina Cook, founder of the Broke Girl Society podcast, talks about the critical gaps in how gambling harm is recognized, treated, and represented—especially for women.Christina shares her lived experience of problem gambling and the barriers she faced in finding recovery spaces that reflected her reality. The conversation explores why women are often missing from gambling harm narratives, how caregiving roles and stigma create unique access barriers, and why traditional treatment and mutual aid spaces often fail to meet women where they are.Together, we unpack systemic issues in prevention messaging, the lack of gender-responsive treatment options, and the urgent need for lived experience leadership in shaping recovery systems. Christina also highlights the rapid expansion of gambling in Oklahoma, the disconnect between revenue and treatment funding, and the rise of her peer-driven recovery community supporting thousands of women globally.This episode challenges how we think about gambling harm—and who we imagine when we talk about recovery.About the Guest:Christina Cook, IGRS, is a lived-experience advocate dedicated to supporting individuals affected by gambling harm. Drawing from her own recovery journey, she uses her story to help reduce shame, build connection, and remind others that healing is possible. Through her podcast and the safe, empowering spaces she creates for women, Christina offers a platform for storytelling, community, and honest conversations about recovery and resilience. She currently serves on the board of the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Board (IPGGC) as Executive Secretary.Links:Links to the BGS: https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/E-mail: [email protected] the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What happens when healing steps outside the clinic and into ceremony? Paije and Fletcher from ETEREO join to discuss their psychedelic retreat work, which focuses on ceremonial healing using traditional medicines like Iboga and combining clinical approaches. They explained their philosophy of meeting individuals where they are in their healing journey, serving people dealing with addiction, mental health issues, and trauma through comprehensive screening and integration processes. The conversation covered the evolution of psychedelic medicine from indigenous practices to modern applications, their upcoming Baja California retreat center, and how they acquire new clients primarily through word-of-mouth referrals.This episode does not advocate for or against psychedelic use, but instead opens a conversation about emerging pathways in healing and recovery — and the questions professionals should be asking.  As psychedelic-assisted approaches continue to gain attention, how do we responsibly discuss risk, readiness, culture, and integration?About the Guests:Paije West brings a unique blend of personal transformation and professional leadership to ETÉREO Baja. After her own iboga journey catalyzed a profound healing process, she became an advocate for safety, “spiritual safety,” and professional standards in psychedelic practice.  At ETÉREO Baja, she oversees guest preparation, integration protocols, ceremonial offerings, and safety governance, ensuring every experience is trauma-informed, clinically supported, and spiritually attuned. Her leadership centers on transparency, integrity, and compassionate rigor, hallmarks of ETÉREO Baja’s reputation.Fletcher Burdick brings grounded, hands-on leadership to ETÉREO Baja, informed by years of collaboration with ibogaine clinics and deep ceremonial study in Peru. Drawing on his background founding and operating a construction company, he integrates practical execution with a deep respect for structure, process, and integrity in the development of ETÉREO’s regenerative healing center.  With over a decade of experience in the psychedelic space, he applies ceremonial depth and cultural alignment to clinical and business contexts, guiding operations and strategy through thoughtful, values-driven collaboration. Fletcher’s approach to psychedelics remains rooted in humility, never claiming origination, always honoring the lineages and traditions that came before.Links:https://www.etereobaja.mx/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What happens when outreach stops being passive and starts becoming relational?  In this episode, we sit down with Megan Poliquin, Gambling Treatment and Prevention Program Manager at the ZEPF Center, to explore how her team transformed their community engagement strategy in Ohio. Megan shares how what began as a grant-funded obligation evolved into a passionate mission—one that has reached more than 2,300 individuals through brief gambling screens. Instead of simply “sitting at a table,” her team created interactive, engaging, data-driven outreach events that build relationships and demonstrate measurable impact.We discuss: the difference between marketing and true outreach, why human connection matters more than information alone, how to approach community partnerships with clarity and confidence, creative strategies for engaging college students, and how small, consistent steps can build large-scale impact. About the Guest:Megan Poliquin (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor with her Gambling Endorsement. Megan has specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of gambling disorder since 2018. She is well-versed in the areas of substance use, anxiety, depression, and relationship and financial stressors. Her counseling style is supportive, interactive, and empathetic. She encourages sessions to be client-led, with her role being to help guide you to your own path of gambling recovery. Megan’s clients would describe her as authentic, humorous, relatable, and encouraging. Megan believes a trusting therapeutic relationship is the most powerful tool to create lasting change. Gambling addiction carries burdens of shame and guilt that lead to isolation, but we all need human connections to thrive. Megan’s own personal experience in therapy has shown her that it can be life-changing. Megan believes that no matter what is going on in your life, you are worthy and deserving of healing, happiness, and recovery. Links:E-mail: [email protected] https://www.zepfcenter.org/gambling-treatment-program/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-poliquin-567a2185?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BVjelCD72S86%2BMr4ITY%2FlHA%3D%3D Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Psychoeducation is often treated as secondary to “real” clinical work—but what if it’s actually foundational?  In this episode of the Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast, we are joined by Tom Karl, Founder and CEO of R1 Learning, to explore the critical (and frequently undervalued) role psychoeducation plays in addiction treatment and recovery. Drawing from Tom’s background in corporate learning and development—and his personal recovery journey—the conversation challenges how treatment programs think about education, engagement, and fundamentals.Together, we unpack the gap between counseling and teaching skills, the importance of shared language and basic vocabulary in early recovery, and why engagement between sessions matters just as much as what happens in the therapy room. We also explore gamification, learning styles, stages of change, and how tools like micro-content and feedback loops can support both clients and clinicians.  This episode is a reminder that effective treatment doesn’t always mean more complexity—it often means returning to the basics and doing them well.About the Guest:Tom Karl founded R1 as the result of his own personal experiences in addiction, and recovery. The idea and vision for the R1 Learning System, the Discovery Cards, and R1 Discover App was inspired following Tom’s last substance use and hospitalization when he noted a lack of practical tools in addiction treatment settings. He has used the creation of the tools to help better understand himself, make a living amends to those he impacted, and build a positive path for others on a similar journey. Through R1, Tom’s goal is to put impactful self-discovery tools into the hands of individuals in recovery and empower them to reach their full potential. In addition, R1’s mission is to address the workforce shortage in the Behavioral Healthcare industry by equipping practitioners at all levels of knowledge, skill, and experience with evidence-based interactive support resources in both hands-on and online formats and in multi-languages. Tom has 25+ years of experience in workforce and leadership development, learning and development, employee engagement, and talent retention, working with global companies, government agencies, and education institutions.Links: Website: https://r1learning.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/r1learning/posts/?feedView=all Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Sports betting is everywhere. But what has the rapid expansion of legalized gambling actually cost us?In this episode, journalist Danny Funt joins to discuss his book Everybody Loses: The Tumultuous Rise of American Sports Gambling. Together, we explore how America’s sports betting boom has reshaped sports culture, media coverage, public health, and consumer protections.  Danny shares insights from interviews with people who struggle with gambling, industry executives, researchers, and regulators. The conversation goes beyond financial losses and examines:The erosion of sports integrityVIP betting programs and emotional entanglement strategiesMisleading “risk-free” advertisingWeak consumer protectionsConflicts of interest between leagues and betting monitorsThe normalization of gambling in sports mediaWhy meaningful regulation may require crisis-level consequencesWe discuss how gambling problems affect high-functioning, disciplined individuals — challenging common stereotypes and humanizing the issue.  This episode asks a hard question: If sports betting continues to expand without stronger safeguards… who really wins?About the Guest:Danny Funt is the author of Everybody Loses: The Tumultuous Rise of American Sports Gambling. His reporting has appeared in The Washington Post, The New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal, and the Columbia Journalism Review. He previously worked as an editor at The Week magazine. A graduate of Georgetown University and the Columbia Journalism School, he lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his wife, Sally, their son, Louis, and their tuxedo cat, Wynnie.Links: Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Everybody-Loses/Danny-Funt/9781668062029 E-mail: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-funt-2695b4a3/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Dr. Nicki Monti, therapist, speaker, and author of the memoir The Divine Traumedy of Nicky Joy: A True Grime Tale is an artist when it comes to how she speaks and writes about her story. Dr. Nicki shares her powerful and unconventional journey from addiction to sobriety and how humor became a lifeline in her recovery. From pursuing acting in California to running a phone sex business, and ultimately becoming a licensed therapist, Dr. Nicki’s story challenges stereotypes about what recovery “should” look like. The conversation explores addiction, pain, and personal responsibility, as well as the often-overlooked emotional toll of caregiving. This episode balances honesty, hope, and humor—reminding listeners that healing doesn’t require perfection, just willingness.About the Guest:Dr. Nicki J. Monti is not your typical therapist. Dr. Nicki instantly gets to the core of presented issues, and immediately provides a clear path for genuine change. Her no-nonsense approach combines with extraordinary compassion and good humor to offer a clear, authoritative voice free of judgment and full of possibility. She quickly brings forward what others have somehow missed and then offers practical tools for truly productive resolution. She is not only a great listener but she makes you feel safe, comfortable and open to what she has to say—she uses wit and her own experiences to reveal what’s undermining you, and to get you beyond being ‘stuck in your own story.’ Joining Dr. Nicki in a seminar, session or event, you will see first-hand her genuine care, humor and intelligence. Through her insightful advice and encouragement, she assists your most positive emotional and life changes.  Dr. Nicki’s successful book series about being Stuck In The Story No More, her Television appearances, her articles, and podcasts have made her into a household name. Dr. Nicki has been seen on Keeping Up with the Kardashians, Millionaire Matchmaker, Love Handles and many other Reality Television shows where her compassion, honesty and genuine expertise shine an instant light on circumstances and offer actual change.Links:Website: https://stucknomore.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dr-Nicki-J-Monti/179364015418429 X: https://twitter.com/DrNicki YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NickiMonti Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnickimonti/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What is it like to be in the shoes of a wife and mother who is drunk?  Emily Redondo, Texas-based author with Minnesota roots and writer of the memoir Wife, Mother, Drunk shares her vulnerability about her experiences. Emily shares her personal journey through alcoholism, recovery, and the challenges she faced as a mother navigating stigma and expectations.  Explore the impact of addiction on families, the barriers mothers face in seeking help, and the importance of compassion in treatment and recovery spaces. Emily speaks openly about return to alcohol use, shame, self-acceptance, and why recovery is never a straight line. Learn about the value of empathy, meeting people where they are, and creating safe, judgment-free spaces for those struggling with substance use.  A powerful conversation for anyone interested in addiction, motherhood, recovery, and the courage it takes to tell your story.About the Guest:Emily Redondo is a writer, bookworm, and proud mother of four whose articles on recovery and motherhood have been featured in Love What Matters, Genius Recovery, and Legacy Launchpad. Her interests include gardening, camping, collecting antique curiosities, and tinkering with her latest diy project in her workshop. She lives with her husband, Pete, and their lively household in McKinney, Texas.Links:https://www.emilyredondoauthor.com/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Explore how faith-based principles and professional counseling can work hand-in-hand to support individuals facing life’s most complex challenges. Haley Scully joins this episode to take a deep dive into Hope for the Heart’s Biblical Counseling Methodology, the Care and Counsel Handbook, and the organization’s mission to equip ministry leaders, helpers, and everyday believers.  This conversation covers: the challenges and opportunities of integrating spirituality into counseling, meeting clients where they are spiritually—without assumptions or pressure, balancing ethical standards with faith-driven approaches, and how the “Keys for Living” library addresses over 100 topics including substance use, gambling, anger, anxiety, forgiveness, and leadership.  Listen for the talk about the difference between discipleship and counseling, and where the two overlap.  The episode highlights how Hope for the Heart serves as a bridge, not a replacement, between professional counseling and spiritual guidance, providing tools that speak to the whole person.About the Guest:Haley Scully, MA, is an experienced and relatable conference speaker, author and trainer who has been with Hope for the Heart since 2011. Currently serving as the Senior Vice President of Ministry Operations, she began her journey within the organization by working in onsite counseling programs before transitioning to international ministry, where she has provided training in over 35 countries. In her role, Haley oversees various initiatives, fosters partnerships, coordinates resources, and delivers fundamental counseling, coaching and care ministry training for church leaders and parachurch organizations globally. Additionally, she co-hosts the acclaimed podcast, Hope Talks, where she shares practical insights on discovering hope amidst everyday challenges. Haley holds a degree in Communications from Oklahoma State University and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. She is deeply passionate about connecting those in distress with hope in Christ and applying God’s Word to their daily lives.Links:Website: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HopeForTheHeart LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-scully-bb858947/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Do you think you matter?  Dean Sykes does and brings to the discussion his decades-long mission of helping teenagers understand their worth. Dean shares his personal journey—from experiencing trauma and emotional abandonment to finding healing through forgiveness and authenticity. Together we explore the themes behind his book You Matter, including the importance of self-worth, listening, and being present for those who are hurting. Learn about communication in families, the growing impact of technology on teens, and why active listening is essential for genuine connection.About the Guest:Since January of 1993, Dean Sikes has been on the road, communicating words of hope in high schools, Teen Challenge Centers, churches and prisons across America and in nations of the world. To date, he’s spoken at over four thousand three hundred events, sharing the YOU MATTER message with millions of people.  In addition to an active road outreach, the You Matter team is engaged everyday of the year on social media, sharing messages of hope for everyone, everywhere. Over the last two years, the team has had over 165 million views of Dean’s videos online.  A published author, to date, Dean has written thirty-three (33) books, all of which serve as follow up resources for teens and their families. Together with his wife, Lori, the Sikes family make their home in Chattanooga, Tennessee.Links:Website: https://deansikes.net/ E-mail: [email protected] Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

“What happens when you have a nurse and robot dispensing medication?”  Sam Wilson of Opio Connect discusses how technology is transforming opioid treatment programs and methadone access. Sam shares her work with Opio’s Zing and Zing Satellite systems—innovations designed to expand access to methadone, reduce clinic bottlenecks, and free up nurses to focus more on patient care. Listen to the challenges of adopting new solutions in the industry, the impact on patient experience, and why empowering frontline staff is key to better outcomes in addiction treatment.About the Guest:Sam Wilson (COO) Health tech strategy and ops expert. Co-founded Confidant Health, multi-state behavioral health practice and built ATLAS, the nation's first quality measurement system for addiction treatment facilities.Links:https://opioconnect.com/about/ https://vimeo.com/1135178951?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Joining alongside one another in recovery is challenging - especially without giving a guide map for how this looks or works.  Lisa Katona Smith, author of Parallel Recovery and TEDx speaker, discusses the essential—but often overlooked—role families play in the recovery process.  Lisa shares insights from her work and writing, challenging the traditional labels of “enabling” or “codependent” and instead offering a compassionate, empowerment-focused approach. She explains how families can stay engaged in healthier ways, use tools like genograms to understand their patterns, and embrace harm-reduction strategies that support both their loved ones and themselves.About the Guest:Lisa Katona Smith, M.Ed., is the founder of Parallel Recovery® and a nationally recognized voice in the evolving landscape of family recovery. A certified Peer Recovery Specialist, TEDx speaker, and author of the forthcoming book Parallel Recovery: A Guide for Those Who Love Someone Struggling with Substance Use Disorder, Lisa brings over 20 years of experience as a master-level educator, combined with personal lived experience navigating a loved one’s addiction.Motivated by the limitations of traditional support models, Lisa developed the Parallel Recovery® framework—a structured, compassionate process that helps families step into healing, reclaim influence, and rebuild connection in the face of substance use and mental health challenges. Her work is grounded in the belief that recovery is not a solo act, and families don’t need to wait on the sidelines. Through education, coaching, curriculum development, and professional training, she empowers families and clinical teams alike to move beyond survival toward sustainable change.Lisa collaborates nationally with treatment centers, care teams, and professional partners to deliver evidence-informed care, family systems consulting, and high-acuity case support. Known for her clarity, emotional depth, and strategic insight, she speaks regularly on transforming the family’s role in recovery—bringing voice to the untold side of the story.Links:https://lisakatonasmith.com/bio/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAguAjVzE7o Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

How are sports changing?  Neil Schwartz, President of SBRNET, provides a deep dive into how sports fandom has evolved—especially since the pandemic. We explore major shifts in fan behavior, including the rapid growth of streaming, the rising cost of live events, changes in athlete-fan interactions, and how sports continue to serve as a vital source of community and entertainment.  Neil also discusses the expanding world of sports betting, sharing insights from national data on how gambling influences fan engagement, spending, and team loyalty. Together, we examine the growing risks for youth, the impact of mobile betting, and why the industry needs stronger guardrails to protect young fans and maintain the integrity of sports.About the Guest:Neil Schwartz, President of SBRnet, Inc., has over twenty-five years of marketing and consumer research experience focused entirely on sports, fitness, and active lifestyle categories. Neil is regarded as an expert in the trends affecting sports fans across both team and individual sports. He leverages his extensive knowledge and experience in data analytics to generate insights and craft stories that industry leaders need to make informed decisions. SBRnet and the Sports Market Analytics Platform provide a comprehensive online platform covering nationwide sports business, sports marketing, and sports marketing analytics, utilizing syndicated, custom, and proprietary research for professional, minor league, and college sports. Previously, Neil worked for SportScanInfo from SportsOneSource and led the research team at the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). He has been a featured speaker at numerous industry conferences and events and is well respected for his collaborations with leading financial and investment firms, top brands, and retailers in the sports footwear and apparel sectors. Neil is also the host of the My First Job in Sports Podcast and co-founder of the annual Get in the Game Sports Business Career Conference. As President of SBRnet, Neil is dedicated to expanding the use of data within academic and related commercial fields such as sports management, sports business, sports marketing, and sports analytics. Links:Website: https://sportsmarketanalytics.com/About.aspx E-mail: [email protected] the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Sandy Zeldes is a trauma-informed health coach who helps women heal their relationship with food and their bodies through a holistic and compassionate approach.  Sandy shares how she integrates ancestral nutrition, emotional freedom techniques (EFT), and trauma release methods to address the deep emotional roots behind disordered eating, addiction, and self-criticism. She explains how trauma manifests in the body and how safe, somatic practices can help clients reconnect with themselves, release stored pain, and build sustainable self-care habits.  We explore the powerful intersection of trauma, addiction, and nutrition, emphasizing the importance of healing the body and mind together. The conversation also highlights how professionals in the behavioral health and addiction fields can begin incorporating trauma-informed nutrition discussions into their work to support lasting recovery and emotional balance.About the Guest:Sandy Zeldes is a spiritual cowgirl, former celebrity chef, and subconscious transformation expert with over 20 years of experience helping high-achieving women break free from emotional eating, addictive yo-yo dieting, and weight shame. Her signature blend of EFT tapping, trauma healing, and functional nutrition gets to the root—so change actually sticks.  She is the creator of the #1 bestselling DailyOM course Healing Subconscious Blocks to Weight Loss and known for powerful, emotionally resonant interviews that cut through diet noise. Links: Website: https://sandyzeldes.com/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Enter the vision of a leader who is redefining recovery by treating it not just as cessation of substance use, but as “recovery from life.” In this conversation we dig into how Jeanne Foot, founder of The Recovery Concierge, brings a personalized “concierge” model to treatment and wellness, blending mental-health, trauma-informed care, and whole-person support so that people don’t just survive, they thrive. We’ll explore how this approach meets people exactly where they are and guides them through the many dimensions of recovery: mind, body and spirit. If you’re ready to rethink what recovery can look like, you won’t want to miss this.About the Guest:Jeanne Foot is the founder and CEO of The Recovery Concierge, a premier service for mental health, addiction recovery, trauma healing, and peak performance. Between her own lived experience, credentials as an International Certified Alcohol & Drug Counsellor, and trainings in Hypnotherapy, Neurolinguistic Programming, and Somatic work, Jeanne is often called the “best kept secret” in the world of recovery. She brings a unique, holistic, 360-degree approach to treatment, guiding individuals and their families through the complex journey of addiction and healing.Jeanne and her team offer a comprehensive range of services, including interventions and assessments, alcohol management, sober companionship, case management, and long-term relapse prevention. Their work is grounded in an integrated, trauma-informed model that meets clients wherever they are with compassion, strategy, and unwavering support.Links:Website: https://therecoveryconcierge.com/Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therecovery_concierge/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-foot-the-recovery-concierge/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therecoveryconcierge/ Naturally High Podcast:On Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/naturally-high/id1585263254On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LWUXpejsTxwYvzXOPHshASupport the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Mark Hrymoc, an addiction psychiatrist with six years of experience in ketamine therapy. In this episode, Dr. Hrymoc challenges common misconceptions about addiction and psychiatric treatment, explaining how addiction affects willpower rather than representing a failure of it. We explore the fascinating evolution of ketamine from anesthetic and club drug to a breakthrough treatment for treatment-resistant depression, and why it works faster than conventional antidepressants while uniquely reducing suicidal thinking. Dr. Hrymoc emphasizes the importance of comprehensive psychiatric evaluation over "gas-and-go" ketamine administration and advocates for treating substance use and underlying mental health issues simultaneously rather than sequentially.  This conversation dives deep into the intersection of addiction medicine and innovative psychiatric treatments, while highlighting the critical need to reduce shame and stigma to encourage people to seek professional help. Whether you're struggling with addiction, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in cutting-edge mental health treatments, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of addiction recovery.About the Guest:Dr. Hrymoc has extensive expertise in the psychopharmacology of addiction and other mental health disorders. He is double Board-certified in General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry and was previously board-certified in Addiction Medicine. Dr. Hrymoc previously held the position of Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA, where he supervised training psychiatrists at their Addiction Psychiatry Clinic. He completed his subspecialist training in Addiction Psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and currently serves as a consulting physician to several prestigious drug and alcohol treatment centers in the area.  In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Hrymoc continues to be active in the local addiction treatment community. Dr. Hrymoc has served as the representative of the states of California, Alaska, and Hawaii to the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry and was a member of the education committee of the California Society of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Hrymoc co-authored a chapter in Principles of Addiction Medicine, the main textbook of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and has been published in several academic journals.Links:https://www.mentalhealthctr.com/mark-hrymoc-md/ https://www.mentalhealthctr.comSupport the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

This episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery features a timely and impactful conversation with Amanda Quintana from the Colorado Lottery, recorded as part of the Gift Responsibly holiday campaign. Together, we dive into the evolving world of responsible gambling, youth gambling awareness, and the collaborative efforts needed across sectors to reduce harm.  Amanda shares her background in responsible gambling and problem gambling services—including her work with the Colorado Lottery —and offers an inside look at how the lottery is engaging in harm reduction, player health, and public education.  Whether you work in prevention, public health, gambling services, or simply want to better understand the risks and responsibilities surrounding modern gambling, this episode offers a thoughtful and refreshing perspective.  Listen, learn, and join the movement to Gift Responsibly.About the Guest:Amanda Quintana is the Player Health Manager for the Colorado Lottery, where she leads the Responsible Gambling program and serves as subject matter expert on gambling harm prevention. She previously worked in the nonprofit sector managing a helpline and treatment provider network, as well as serving as Program Manager at the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). Amanda currently sits on the NCPG Board of Directors. With a background in community-based addiction services and a Master’s in Population Health Management from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Amanda integrates her frontline experience with a public health approach to advance safer gambling practices.Links:Toolkit: https://www.ncpgambling.org/responsible-gambling/gift-responsibly-campaign/CO Lott "Know your limits" page: https://www.coloradolottery.com/en/about/know-your-limits/GR Pledge: https://www.coloradolottery.com/en/contests/91:RHBSv-H8kVg9VRo0Ece0cB_czIh-FpWj-u6a-EO5Ofs/Social Media:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-quintana/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

At this year’s National Conference on Gambling Addiction & Responsible Gambling, I was fortunate enough to meet Adam Lyons, host of The Modern Meeting Podcast.  We sit down for a casual conversation around gambling-related topics that include changing the narrative that help is not out there, reducing the stigma related to having a problem with gambling and what can be turning points for those being more comfortable sharing their story, and what led to creating his podcast and how it’s changed over the years.  With lived experience and a mission to help those impacted by gambling, Adam’s story and purpose allows for exploration and discovery of how we can continue to thrive in this profession.About the Guest:Adam Lyons is a compulsive gambler in recovery and creator and host of The Modern Meeting podcast. For 20 years Adam's addiction controlled every part of his life -- leading to job loss, relocation, financial collapse, and even illegal acts to fuel his gambling. Over those two decades, he cycled through more than 25 jobs and 15 addresses in six different cities, always looking for the fresh start that never came to fruition. On February 8, 2022, he finally sought help through Gamblers Anonymous and he hasn't placed a bet since. After two years in recovery, Adam wanted to share everything that he had learned in these rooms, so he created The Modern Meeting Podcast out of a belief that as gambling continues to evolve and expand, the recovery conversation should evolve with it. The Modern Meeting is about consistently reaching for community, honesty, and support -- especially in recovery, where disconnection fuels addiction. The podcast exist to bridge that gap and offer a space where people can share their stories and know they're not alone and what they've lived.Links:Join us for The Modern Meeting Meeting every Monday night at 8pm EST on Zoom. It's a safe space to share, connect, and grow together. For more details email at: [email protected]: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jMSSKkadnvzbvZl33dzZcApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-modern-meeting/id1779060982You can also watch full episodes, interviews, and bonus content on The Modern Meeting YouTube Channel : https://www.youtube.com/@ModernMeetingSupport the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

It’s marked on almost every calendar.  The decorations are waiting to be brought down from the attic or out of the basement.  Most of us would say we are aware of Christmas; but have we actually lost it?  Donna VanLiere, author of The Lost Christmas, talks about the importance of the nativity scene.  She brings it back to discovering that Jesus was born as an outcast, and only a trusted outcast can touch the lives of other outcasts.  Listen as she talks about how this book was different from her previous writings, searching for joy and hope, and knowing that while the holidays aren’t the same for everyone there is a way for us to join someone in their journey.About the Guest:New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Donna VanLiere’s 18 books include The Christmas Shoes and The Christmas Blessing, which were adapted into movies starring Rob Lowe and Neil Patrick Harris. Both movies garnered stellar ratings for CBS, including the highest rated made-for-TV movie of the year. Four other novels have been adapted into television movies for Lifetime and Hallmark. Donna's non-seasonal novels The Good Dream, Angels of Morgan Hill, and non-fiction works like Finding Grace, The Time of Jacob’s Trouble, and High Calling—the biography of Space Shuttle Columbia Commander Rick Husband—capture the same warmth as her Christmas books. Donna has won a Retailer's Choice Award for Fiction, a Dove Award, a Silver Angel Award, two Audie Awards (seven nominations) for best inspirational fiction, and a Gold Medallion Book of the Year nomination, and she is an inductee in the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges Hall of Excellence. One of Donna’s great loves is teaching and speaking. She has spoken at the prestigious Patricia Adams Lecture Series at Heidelberg University, Among Friends conferences, Women of Faith events, and Extraordinary Women conferences. Donna’s newest book, Looking for Christmas, is available now for pre-order, and she is currently finishing Looking for God, which will release in the spring of 2026.Links:Email: [email protected] Website: www.donnavanliere.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donnavanliereSupport the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Communication in relationships is vital; and yet, so many parents and families struggle with having important conversations that can have a significant impact on someone’s future.  In what was inspired by writing letters to his daughters, Kepler Knott, author of “Raising Tomorrow” talks about how to have conversation, healthy dialogue, and the importance of listening when it comes to his message of “connecting parents and kids to inspire the next generation.”About the Guest:Kepler has been a writer, teacher, soldier, entrepreneur and, most importantly, a husband and father to his two daughters. He has lived his life as a “traveler” across places, jobs, classes and cultures. He is always learning that some ways of living are better than others to make life full. Though there are often as many questions as answers, his book aims to impart some of what he’s discovered, and to invite other parents and their kids to do the same. Grab your copy of Raising Tomorrow and join the conversation.Links:https://www.amazon.com/Raising-Tomorrow-Talks-Prepare-Ahead/dp/B0F7S1L5ZQ https://www.raisingtomorrow.org/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery, we are joined by Julia Brunson, Communications Manager at the National Council on Problem Gambling, about the Gift Responsibly Campaign — an annual initiative educating communities on the risks of giving lottery tickets to children.  Julia shares how the campaign has evolved over the years, expanding from a lottery-focused effort to a broader movement that now includes community organizations and the new Too Young to Bet. Together, we explore why gifting lottery tickets to minors isn’t as harmless as it seems, how early exposure increases the risk of future gambling problems, and how the campaign uses positive, accessible messaging to drive awareness and cultural change.  We also discuss this year’s updates, key deadlines, and how organizations can get involved before the November 26th registration cutoff for inclusion in the official press release.About the Guest:Julia Brunson joined the National Council on Problem Gambling in May 2022.  In this position, she assists in the development of multi-channel content, manages social media accounts, and helps execute communications strategy across all NCPG digital channels.  Julia is an experienced communicator with several years of marketing and development experience in a non-profit setting.  She has a BA in history from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and has received several leadership certificates and fellowships.  She has a passion for all things digital and Gen Z.  In her spare time, Julia enjoys writing, hiking, and browsing Tik Tok.Links:https://www.ncpgambling.org/ https://www.ncpgambling.org/responsible-gambling/gift-responsibly-campaign/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Life at times can feel like a knot.  Whether that’s the physical tension in our bodies, the emotional turmoil, the mental confusion, or the spiritual exhaustion; many of us can relate to the connection of feeling twisted and the impact it has on several areas of our lives.  Elena Huggins, author of “Untwist Me”, guides readers through common, but often unspoken, challenges like trauma, anxiety, addiction, shame, and spiritual battles.  Listen as she offers raw, biblical grounded strategies to reframe mind, body, and soul to help us untwist and break free from feeling stuck.  About the Guest:Elena Huggins is a passionate communicator who desires to inspire, challenge, and empower her audience to make the changes they need to live better lives. She is a lover of Jesus, a musician, and an entrepreneur.  Over the last eighteen years, Elena has spoken across a variety of stages to different audiences using a straightforward approach, unapologetic challenges, and biblical truths. She is devoted to the Gospel and seeing God's people strengthened, free and more in love with Jesus.  She has had much experience in the area of mental and emotional health, with her journey to overcoming trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Her experience includes: working with trafficked victims, working at the rape crisis center, endless one-on-one coaching sessions, and pastoral care.She resides in the mountains with her two beautiful daughters. Links:Get a copy of Untwist Me: https://www.amazon.com/Untwist-Uncomplicated-Life-Hacks-Emotional-Liberation/dp/B0CPCQ2VP1 Learn more about Elena here: https://www.elenahuggins.com/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Unlock true freedom from addiction, trauma, and mental health struggle with Jason Shiers who is founder of The Infinite Recovery Project. Drawing from his own journey through early loss, addiction, and the limits of traditional recovery, Jason reframes the path to healing. He argues that recovery isn’t about perfect fixes or rigid treatments.  It’s about remembering who you already are and reconnecting to the wholeness beneath the pain as part of our intuition of home.In this episode, you’ll hear about how addiction can be a meaningful, though misaligned, response to life’s challenges; what recovery looks like when it grows from insight instead of force; and how spiritual awareness, somatic healing, and compassionate truth lead not away from your story, but deeper into your freedom.About the Guest:Jason Shiers is the founder of The Infinite Recovery Project, a movement born from his decades-long journey through loss, addiction, and healing. After witnessing his father’s tragic death at age five, Jason turned to food, isolation, and eventually substances as coping tools. By his early teens, that path led him into crime, homelessness, psychiatric wards, and rehab.Though he committed for many years to traditional recovery—12-step work, therapy, endless credentials—he came to realize that peace and healing can’t be found only in external solutions. The breakthrough came when he turned inward: embracing presence, somatic healing, spiritual awakening, psychological awareness, and acknowledging that addiction is often a survival mechanism.Today, Jason helps others rediscover their own inner wholeness, not through rigid formulas, but through deeper truth, embodied knowing, and real transformation from the inside out.Links: Website:https://infiniterecoveryproject.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Infinite-Recovery-Project-Intelligence-Addiction-ebook/dp/B0FD8QSYFP/ Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Join us in a profoundly inspiring episode with Dr. Samantha Harte, author of Breaking the Circuit: How to Rewire Your Mind for Hope, Resilience, and Joy in the Face of Trauma. A doctor of physical therapy, yoga-certified practitioner, and fourteen-year sober survivor, Dr. Harte weaves together her harrowing personal story marked by addiction, betrayal, loss, miscarriages, a mother’s mental illness, and a life-altering near-death experience.  She invites listeners into a modern, trauma-informed reimagining of the Twelve Steps; and not just for those in recovery, but for anyone striving to heal emotional wounds and reclaim joy. This episode explores how we can interrupt self-destructive patterns, cultivate hope, and rewire our minds toward resilience without judgment.About the Guest:Samantha Harte has had her share of heartbreak. Now sixteen years sober, she has suffered through her mother’s mental illness; betrayal by partners; the loss of her sister, friends, and father; multiple miscarriages; and her addiction to drugs and alcohol. Desperate for a path through the pain, she was forced to confront the hardwiring toward perfectionism that kept her sick and embrace the rewiring required to truly recover and heal. Through her medical practice, Samantha came to realize that, whether we’re addicted or not, we all suffer from some degree of soul sickness. We navigate love and loss throughout our lives with little or no guidance, often fumbling our way through with self-sabotaging behaviors. Despite her initial resistance to the well-known Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, Samantha eventually reimagined them so that they worked in her own life. In the process, she discovered that the spiritual concepts in each step have universal application and can help people learn new ways of navigating adversity—not just addiction. In this book, she shows you how you, too, can change your life with the power of these steps.Links:https://drsamanthaharte.comhttps://drsamanthaharte.com/bookhttps://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Circuit-Rewire-Resilience-Trauma/dp/B0CVC31DZShttps://www.facebook.com/samantha.harte.5/https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsamanthaharte/https://www.instagram.com/drsamanthaharte/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

September was both Recovery Month and Suicide Prevention Month, two observances that highlight hope, resilience, and the life-saving importance of support. In this special episode, we explore the often-overlooked connection between gambling and suicide—a link that remains hidden to many but is devastatingly real for those struggling. We’ll discuss how gambling helplines not only connect people with treatment resources, but often act as suicide prevention lifelines for those in crisis.We’ll also address the current state of the National Problem Gambling Helpline, including the recent court decision impacting access to 1-800-GAMBLER and the transition to 1-800-522-4700 as the active national number. This episode emphasizes why helplines matter, what resources are available, and how we can continue to break stigma while ensuring people have a place to turn when they need it most.Links:https://www.ncpgambling.org/helpline-stakeholder-faq/ https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/about-the-national-problem-gambling-helpline/Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

“Every life worth living is a story worth telling.”  Born into chaos, Mike Smith, author of “The Gutter Gospel" shares his personal memoir that speaks about addiction, mental health, desperation, and redemption.  His mission has led to providing services and bringing awareness to military veterans.  Based on his own memoir, “I had a supportive wife, a new job, and a baby at home, yet the ache in my soul wouldn’t go away.”  Mike joins this episode to share about his story, talk about some of the work he is doing, and how we can build better connections.  About the Guest:Mike Smith is the gritty, no-frills voice behind The Gutter Gospel, a raw and powerful memoir that dives headfirst into the trenches of addiction, redemption, and self-discovery. With unflinching honesty and a poet’s soul, Mike captures the reality of life on the edge, offering readers both a cautionary tale and a story of hope. Mike Smith's story is one that truly resonates. As a former homeless veteran, he has faced unimaginable struggles, battling both mental illness and addiction. His memoir, The Gutter Gospel, is not just a recount of his life; it is a testament to resilience and the power of hope. Mike shares the raw truth of his experiences, giving voice to those who often go unheard. Links:Website: https://theguttergospel.com Book: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-gutter-gospel-mike-smith/1138119074 Support the showThank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast.To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected] podcast is also a platform for FREE continuing education.  Licensed and certified professionals are able to listen to select episodes at no cost.  Listen to an episode.  Take a quiz.  Complete an eval.  Earn a certificate.  Learn more at www.andrewjschreier.com/continuing-educationTalking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.