Steel City Round Table Podcast

Give me a big truck, a mic and a thousand miles and I am content. It's a long throw from when I was in active addiction. I could not stand to be alone with myself, my thoughts, and my emotions. Every mile was a struggle to keep my sh*t together. Hangovers and poor decisions plagued my days and nights. Getting sober gave me the opportunity to turn my struggles into words. I get to share my thoughts, experience, and story with you. I hope my poor judgement and train wrecks can help you in some way. In this installment I just wanted too give you some more brutal honesty about me and my life. Share - Help - Repeat!!

Ever wonder why your decision-making skills resemble a squirrel on espresso? Do we really have control over our choices when we're in the throes of addiction? And what's the deal with those mental roadblocks?I might not have all the answers, but I've got a PhD in making questionable life choices. My past was a series of drunken decisions and their delightful consequences. Sobriety didn't magically turn me into a decision-making guru; it just gave me the chance to work on my inner chaos, grow a bit, and maybe even think logically once in a while.Fear used to be my co-pilot, but now, almost three years sober, I'm still working on upgrading my decision-making software. There's no expiration date on our blunders, but hey, we can always rewrite the script for a better sequel. The past? It's just a GPS for who we don't want to be. It doesn't define us or put a cap on our happiness.In this episode, I spill the beans on my epic decision fails and how life is slowly turning around. So, grab your popcorn, make the choice to heal, and never stop fighting for your own happy ending.TakeawaysRecovery rewires the brain from addiction patterns.Emotional states heavily influence decisions.Embrace discomfort to break old habits.Recovery is an ongoing journey, not a destination.Community support boosts recovery success.Untreated mental health affects everyday choices.Self-love is key to lasting change.Hashtags#RecoveryJourney#MentalHealthAwareness#SobrietySuccess#AddictionRecovery#MindfulLiving#SelfCompassion#CommunitySupport#GrowthMindset#EmotionalWellbeing#HealthyChoices

Poor decisions and a bad attitude, that's what I lived. Repeatedly I made emotional decisions and destroyed everything I touched. Alcoholism and poor mental health gone unaddressed led me to dark places and bad choices. It all finally came to a head and I was forced too make a choice. Keep living the life I had created, or take a chance that there was a better reason to start living. I chose to start living, I just hadn't realized until I was sober. Was it God thst I can't really tell you ....yet. The desire to live a life absent of pain and suffering was the motivation to start. The miracles that followed fuel me to be better. In this episode I dive into my dumpster fire of a life and share the deep and dirty!Hashtags#AddictionRecovery#SobrietyJourney#EmotionalHealing#LifeLessons#SelfAwareness#MentalHealthMatters#OvercomingAddiction#PersonalGrowth#RedemptionStory#MindfulLiving

Coming up on 3 years sober and it's been a good ride.  I've been working on myself and improving my mental health and life without the booze.  Just when I thought I was ready for anything I got kicked in the teeth by LIFE!  We fight these battles hoping we are preparing ourselves for the next rough day or difficult decision.  Life becomes more "normal" as we do the work, and we start to feel we are on the right path.  Then suddenly a day, incident or situation pops up that makes us question ourselves and our strength and resolve.  It doesn't have to be a death, a medical concern or anything that would be considered "traumatic" or "triggering." The moment comes and trust me it's going to come, and we are floored and have our back up against the wall.  We use our resources and skills but nothing helps.  How can we prepare for these moments and be ready to fight back? I thought I knew and then it happened to me this past week.   I was weak and in a bad place mentally.  The situation had me balancing on the edge. If it would not have worked out I would have been in a very dangerous place, thinking about a drink in a way that leads nowhere good.  In this episode I'm giving some more insight into my life and my battle plan, my "Warrior Plan."  Come join me as I open up about my struggles and things that I find important in continuing down our recovery journey road.  We can never prepare enough or back down, our recovery hinges on our willingness to give up the control and trust in our higher power.Takeaways:When diagnosed with PTSD, it became clear why I drank.Recovery requires preparation for unexpected challenges.Having a warrior plan is essential for maintaining sobriety.Surround yourself with strong, supportive individuals.Practice coping mechanisms on good days, not just bad days.Recovery programs provide guidance, but the work is personal.Friendships formed in rehab may not last outside of it.We are still learning and growing in our recovery journey.Cherish the relationships that endure after treatment.A life in recovery is far more fulfilling than one in addiction.Chapters00:00 The Awakening: Diagnosing the Struggle10:08 The Warrior Plan: Tools for Recovery20:08 Surrounding Yourself with Strength30:15 The Reality of Recovery: Bonds and Lessons39:59 Embracing the Journey: Continuous Growth41:35 OURTO 2025MP4.mp4PTSD, recovery, mental health, sobriety, warrior plan, coping mechanisms, support system, addiction, AA, personal growth

Recent events in Minnesota raise a ton of questions related to ICE/CPB use of force application enforcing the Immigration policies. Use of force is probably the most difficult aspect of law enforcement to exercise. Case law such as Tennessee V Garner and Graham V Connor lay it out fairly clearly. The cases set the basis for reasonable and objective use of force and when deadly force is lawful. In the shooting death of Alex Pretti there are a lot of questionable actions, tactics and decision made by the LEO inolved. Let us say this is a complete shit show and never should have happened. Could things have been handled differently? The answer is yes. As a former LEO I find the events of this incident very disturbing and purely ridiculous. Join me as I raise questions and concerns about the Use of Force employed by ICE/CPB agents and how this mess played out! It is a true tragedy and I think it could have been avoided.TakeawaysUse of force must be justified and reasonable.Tennessee vs. Garner and Graham vs. Connor set important standards.Communication is crucial in high-stress situations.Officers must maintain emotional and mental baselines.The use of force continuum provides a framework for officers.Tactical awareness can prevent unnecessary escalation.Officers should avoid rushing into physical confrontations.Every action taken by law enforcement has consequences.Training and accountability are essential in law enforcement.Preserving life should be the primary goal of law enforcement. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Minnesota's Law Enforcement Issues03:57 Concerns Over Use of Force in Law Enforcement06:15 Key Supreme Court Cases Impacting Use of Force10:19 Analyzing the Alex Pretti Incident15:19 Understanding the Use of Force Continuum17:48 The Role of Communication in High-Stress Situations23:49 The Complexity of Firearm Involvement29:20 Evaluating Tactical Decisions in Law Enforcement32:07 Understanding the 31-Foot Rule in Law Enforcement33:57 The Dangers of Crossfire Situations36:10 Escalation of Force: Analyzing Officer Decisions38:54 The Importance of Tactical Awareness40:50 Understanding Use of Force in Law Enforcement01:00:54 OURTO 2025MP4.mp4Keywordslaw enforcement, use of force, police training, case law, Alex Preddy, Tennessee vs. Garner, Graham vs. Connor, police accountability, tactical awareness, communication in policing

In this episode I sit down with a former LEO Joe Swanson. Joe served as an LEO in California for 8 years before leaving the field. He now dedicates his efforts to helping LEO's deal with stress and the daily struggles of doing the job. Joe created The Tactical Resilience Training system. Joe formulated this system as a way to train officers to handle the day to day stresses and return to their baseline mindset while on and off duty. Everything that occurs in a shift directly affects an officers mental health and effectiveness. Joe teaches agencies and individuals alike how to return to their baseline while dealing with the stresses they face. Joe sat down with me to discuss his program, law enforcement, and the real world realities of doing this job. This a great conversation and I think you are on to something Joe. This is a great episode for those of you currently serving as an LEO. Thanks again Joe Swanson for your time and dedication to helping others!TakeawaysTactical resilience tools are essential for officers.Experience and passion drive effective teaching.Weak leadership is a major issue in policing.Everyday carry (EDC) tools are crucial for officers.Peer check-ins are part of the baseline recovery stack.Sharing stories and experiences helps others.Leadership must be taken seriously and integrated into daily routines.Synchronicities in conversations can lead to valuable insights.Helping others is a continuous process.Sharing experiences is a key part of resilience.

Two young guns making their dreams come true. Wade and Jim of Wolfgang Hauling and Demolition are two young bucks in their early twenties. Through their lives they found that they wanted more than the 9 to 5 punching the clock for some self entitled rich goons. Both have joined the cutthroat world of blue collar business ownership. A twist of fate put them in the same place at the same time. Now they are crushing it together. In this episode we discuss entrepreneurship, life advice, and the importance of having hard conversations. Theis episode features insights on being well-researched and educated, and encourages listeners to act on their ideas. Believe in yourself and you can make anything happen. Love watching these two guys grow and take the world by the balls! Check out Wolfgang Hauling on social media.TakeawaysBe well researched and well educated in the things that matter most to you.Go have those hard conversations.If you have that itch, act on it.Check us out at Wolfgang Hauling on Instagram and Facebook.Be fearless in your pursuits.Start a business with confidence.Engage in meaningful discussions.Stay informed and educated.Follow your passions.Connect with us on social media Wolfgang HaulingKeywordsentrepreneurship, life advice, hard conversations, education, Wolfgang Hauling, struggle, success,, motivation, commitment, drive, share, help, repeat, podcast, pittshurgh

My guest this episode is Jeff Jones who is a man on a mission. The Family Recovery Solution is a new way of attacking addiction focusing on the families rather than the person in recovery. In this conversation, we discuss the complexities of addiction recovery, focusing on the role of family dynamics, nutrition, and the importance of a supportive environment. Jeff shares insights from his experience as a coach working with families affected by addiction, emphasizing the need for a broader perspective beyond traditional recovery methods. They explore the challenges of interventions, the impact of social media, and the necessity of understanding the addicted mind. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the hope and potential for transformation within families dealing with addiction.TakeawaysJeff transitioned from therapy to coaching for more freedom.Family dynamics play a crucial role in addiction recovery.A myopic focus on the addicted individual can hinder recovery.Nutrition is vital for mental health and recovery.Interventions can have both positive and negative outcomes.Families need to understand their influence on recovery.Social media can be a double-edged sword in recovery.There is hope for families with addicted members.Rethinking addiction can lead to better outcomes.Supportive environments are essential for recovery.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Family Recovery Solutions05:01 Transforming Family Dynamics in Addiction09:54 The Role of Nutrition in Recovery15:00 Interventions: Pros and Cons21:59 The Importance of Family Support26:56 Understanding the Addicted Mind31:48 The Role of Social Media in Recovery38:01 Final Thoughts and Hope for FamiliesKeywordsaddiction, recovery, family support, nutrition, interventions, mental health, social media, hope, transformation, coaching

In this conversation, Mark Kneebone and Natalie Snyder discuss the critical issues surrounding mental health in the legal profession and among first responders. They explore the stigma associated with discussing mental health openly, the challenges faced by attorneys in maintaining their credibility while addressing personal struggles, and the importance of support systems. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication, accountability, and teamwork within the justice system, as well as the role of mentorship in guiding new attorneys. They conclude with a call to action for individuals to advocate for mental health awareness and support, regardless of the potential personal or professional ramifications.TakeawaysMental health discussions are crucial in the legal profession.Stigmas around mental health can hinder open communication.Support systems are essential for mental health advocacy.Judges play a significant role in court procedures and outcomes.Effective communication is vital in legal interactions.Mentorship can greatly benefit new attorneys.Accountability is necessary for maintaining integrity in law.Taking someone's freedom away has lasting consequences.Teamwork is essential in law enforcement and legal practices.Advocating for mental health can improve overall well-being.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates01:27 Mental Health in the Legal Profession06:28 The Impact of Mental Health Stigmas10:51 Advocacy for Mental Health Support12:14 The Role of First Responders in Mental Health18:19 Challenges in the Legal System25:20 Communication and Professionalism in Law29:03 Efficiency in Law Enforcement Communication32:53 The Role of Experience in Law Enforcement37:00 Generational Differences in Law Enforcement42:02 The Importance of Accountability in Law Enforcement51:43 Justice and the Constitution: A Collective Responsibility55:22 OURTO 2025MP4.mp4Keywordsmental health, legal profession, attorney support, first responders, communication, justice system, accountability, mentorship, teamwork, freedom, podcast, recovery, bias

My little nugget Kelly has made it 2 years clean and sober. She and I started our sobriety journeys together and also the podcast. She was my cohost in the beginning. We shared a lot of great moments doing this show together. Like all great things there came a time for us to go around and do our own shit. Some time has passed and our lives and journeys have continued on. I am very grateful that Kelly was able to come back and share her story celebrating her two years. I would also like to thank her man Ron for joining in. As always, we talk abut our experiences, struggles and growth. Share Help Repeat......It's what we do!!TakeawaysKelly celebrates two years of sobriety, marking a significant milestone.The conversation highlights the emotional impact of reconnecting with friends after a long time apart.Both speakers share their experiences with addiction, emphasizing the progression from alcohol to drugs.Self-awareness is crucial in recovery, helping individuals understand their behaviors and motivations.The importance of healthy relationships is discussed, particularly in the context of recovery and support.Navigating mental health and medication is a complex journey for both speakers, with varying experiences.Family plays a significant role in recovery, providing support and understanding during difficult times.Coping with stress and triggers is an ongoing challenge for those in recovery, requiring constant vigilance.Building healthy relationships involves open communication and mutual respect, which both speakers emphasize.Mental health awareness is vital, as it helps reduce stigma and encourages individuals to seek help. Keywordssobriety, addiction, recovery, mental health, self-awareness, relationships, coping strategies, family support, medication, personal growth

In this episode, Mark Kneebone discusses the importance of mental health awareness, particularly for first responders, and shares insights on relapse and triggers in recovery. He emphasizes the significance of self-awareness and having a solid plan to combat addiction, while also addressing the complexities of triggers that can lead to relapse. Mark encourages listeners to be proactive in their recovery journey and to share their experiences to help others. So that is the AI generated description. Here is mine....Relapse and triggers, what are they really? Do you relapse when you drink? What is the realistic definition of triggers. I'm not talking what normies think or what Webster's dictionary tells you. I am talking what are they really like when you a person in recovery. How do we handle these ideas on a daily basis? How to we survive and maintain our sobriety and mental health? In this episode I explain my opinions and experiences. Just one guy in recovery voicing his opinions as usual. Leave me a message, like, and subscribe for more content!!Should I go with the auto BS or the real blue collar description?TakeawaysMental health is crucial for first responders.Relapse begins with the thought of using again.Self-awareness helps identify early signs of relapse.Having a warrior plan is essential in recovery.Triggers can be both overt and subtle.It's important to communicate feelings with someone.Cognitive behavioral therapy can help break patterns.Don't let 'maybe' or 'might be' into your thoughts.You can rebound from a relapse without starting over.Daily self-evaluation is key to maintaining recovery.#mentalhealth#relapse#addiction#recovery#triggers#copingstrategies#emotionalhealth#firstresponders#selfawareness

Who struggles with pushing forward in the recovery besides me? Patience and consistency are essential pillars in overcoming our struggles no matter what it is. Ironically, I have learned that consistency can be negative as well as positive. Negative patterns from my past were consistent, consistently bad!! I also lack patience at times when triggering events creep up. Quick to lose my mind and revert to old behaviors and actions. Join me for a quick discussion about my faults and mistakes along the way.....focusing on my completely neurotic approach to money and pissing off my wife. As always this is about me lol so learn from my mistakes.TAKEAWAYSPatience and consistency are crucial for recovery.Financial management can be a major relationship stressor.Past financial hardships shape current behaviors.Self-awareness is key to personal growth.Recovery requires adapting and evolving plans.Open communication helps in managing relationship dynamics.Seeking advice from others can provide new perspectives.Consistency in positive behaviors is challenging but necessary.Triggers like money can lead to negative behaviors.Recovery is a dynamic and ongoing process.#patiernceandconsistency#recoveryjourney#mentalhealthmatters#relationshipdynamics#selfimprovement#personalgrowth

In this conversation, Todd Hollis and I discuss the complexities of law enforcement, civil rights, and the challenges faced by police officers. Todd shares his journey from being a public defender to a civil rights attorney, emphasizing the importance of accountability and proper training in policing. We explore the need for de-escalation techniques, the implications of qualified immunity, and the human element in law enforcement interactions. The discussion highlights the necessity for reform in policing practices to ensure justice and protect the rights of individuals. In this conversation, Todd Hollis and I delve into the complexities of law enforcement, discussing the challenges officers face, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of personal trauma on professional responsibilities. We explore the culture within police departments, the significance of accountability, and the need for self-awareness in both law enforcement and personal growth. The dialogue also touches on the role of social media in shaping public perception and the importance of building trust within communities.  These conversations need to happen in order for our justice system to move improve and move forward.  Everyone deserves to be held accountable no matter who it is.  Todd and I both believe that the majority of LEO are doing an amazing job in the times we live in.  Unfortunately the ones that are bad at best are dragging the profession down to its knees.  Thank you Todd for your openness in willing to have this chat.TakeawaysTodd Hollis believes in making the world a better place.Police officers face significant challenges in their roles.Transitioning from public defense to civil rights was a pivotal moment for Todd.Disenchantment with the legal system led Todd to explore new paths.De-escalation is crucial in law enforcement interactions.Qualified immunity protects officers but can hinder accountability.Personal responsibility in policing is essential for reform.Consequences for police misconduct often fall short of justice.The culture of policing can perpetuate violence and misuse of force.Listening and understanding can prevent escalation in tense situations. Evaluate the situation and read the room effectively.Training and experience are crucial in law enforcement.Find a mentor you trust within the police force.The blue line culture can hinder accountability.Officers must take their responsibilities seriously.Trust is essential in police-community relations.Transitioning from criminal law to civil rights advocacy can be impactful.Mental health is a significant issue for law enforcement professionals.Self-awareness is key to personal and professional growth.Social media has a profound impact on societal issues.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Todd Hollis03:02 Transition from Public Defender to Civil Rights Attorney06:04 The Role of Police and Accountability09:06 Challenges in Law Enforcement Training11:58 The Importance of De-escalation in Policing14:50 Qualified Immunity and Police Accountability18:08 The Need for Personal Responsibility in Law Enforcement20:52 Consequences for Police Misconduct23:57 The Culture of Policing and Use of Force27:02 The Human Element in Law Enforcement29:50 Final Thoughts on Reforming Policing40:10 Navigating Aggression in Law Enforcement41:43 Advice for Aspiring Police Officers42:39 The Importance of Mentorship in Policing44:37 The Blue Line Culture and Accountability46:54 The Weight of Responsibility in Law Enforcement49:39 The Role of Trust in Police and Community Relations50:52 The Shift from Criminal Law to Civil Rights Advocacy01:00:11 Personal Trauma and Professional Responsibility01:02:34 Mental Health and Law Enforcement01:05:39 Self-Awareness and Personal Growth01:10:03 The Impact of Social Media on Society01:14:36 Building Relationships and Community Engageme

In this heartfelt episode of the Steel City Roundtable, Mark Kneebone opens up about the unexpected challenges and profound reflections encountered during his early sobriety journey. As he approaches 28 months sober, Mark shares personal stories of battling old habits, confronting emotional triggers, and the relentless pursuit of self-awareness. Join Mark as he candidly discusses the importance of a "warrior's plan" in recovery and the ongoing struggle to rebuild trust and relationships. This episode is a raw and inspiring look at the complexities of addiction and the resilience required to overcome it.#SobrietyJourney #Recovery #AddictionAwareness #SelfAwareness #SteelCityRoundtable

Another warrior found his way to the Round Table. Chris Cerci is a veteran fireman, addict and alcoholic. Chris and I met through Facebook recently and immediately connected on several levels. Our experience in public service, addiction and mental health struggles just being a couple ways. We also share a history of self destructive behavior leading us to burn bridges everywhere we went. The most important similarity is the rock bottom moment that thrust us into change and seeking sobriety. Chris’s tells his story of struggle, despair and redemption in this episode. Thank you Chris for becoming part of my recovery family. You are helping through the telling of your story. This is a must listen to all you Round Table friends and family.Key Topics:Chris's early life and the impact of losing his father The role of addiction in his life and career The turning point: a life-changing motorcycle accident The power of faith and community in recovery Insights into mental health and addictionHashtags: #AddictionRecovery #Faith #MentalHealth #Podcast #Newbeginnings #Community #Addiction #Mentalhealth #Personalgrowth #growthmindset Call to Action: Listen now to be inspired by Chris's journey and learn how hope and determination can lead to a new beginning. Don't forget to subscribe for more stories of resilience and transformation.

Natalie’s back home at the SCRT! In this episode, I’m a bit riled up about a post I saw recently. It really bugs me when smart people say really stupid things. It’s even worse when they’re criticizing law enforcement as a whole. Making sweeping generalizations is a sign of closed-mindedness and the inability to think through the problem logically. Do you want to be a follower or a leader? Do the work and come to your own decision and form an educated opinion. Natalie and I discuss this in depth and how blanket statements are useless. We also talk about self-isolation, making a 180 in life, and how things can be a bit complicated. Natalie opens up about her experiences parenting two daughters while in mental health recovery. As always, we had a great time making this episode and hope you enjoy it!Social media can create challenges for teenagers and families.Public perception of law enforcement is often generalized and unfair.There are both good and bad officers in law enforcement.Personal growth often requires confronting uncomfortable truths.Sobriety can change relationships and social dynamics.Emotions play a significant role in decision-making processes.Self-awareness is crucial for managing emotions and reactions.Apologizing to loved ones can strengthen relationships.

In this episode, Mark Kneebone and Drew Moore discuss the differences in recovery culture between the East and West Coasts of the United States. They explore the importance of community, the 12 steps of recovery, and the significance of self-awareness and finding a personal higher power in the journey of sobriety. The conversation emphasizes that true recovery comes from within and that the ripple effect of sobriety can positively impact those around us.Takeaways:Recovery culture varies significantly between the East and West Coasts.Community plays a crucial role in the recovery process.The 12 steps are foundational but can be interpreted in various ways.Self-awareness is key to understanding one's addiction and recovery.Finding a personal higher power can aid in the recovery journey.Sobriety can lead to a ripple effect, positively impacting others.It's important to get sober for oneself, not for others.Interventions may not be effective for everyone.Living a sober life requires hard work and dedication.Recovery is a continuous learning process. 

Tom Kaminsky is a successful business man in Hollywood California, but this is not how his story began.  From his East coast roots to his West coast success a lot of shit happened in between.  I met Tom through TikTok, one of the few times the algorithm actually worked.  Tom is a recovering addict with 10,000 days of sobriety under his belt.  This wasn't handed to him it was earned through hard work and a love and dedication to service.  Tom has devoted over 27 years to helping those who suffer and struggle with addiction.  He doesn't do it behind the veil of some hidden agenda.  He isn’t some 20 something who is trying to make money of the suffering of others. Sobriety is his life and he faces every day figuring out how to help others.  Tom sits down with me and tells his story from drug addiction to alcoholism and then to a happy and fulfilling live in sobriety.  I hope someday I can say I have helped those that I can.  It's not the days sober he counts, it's the days sober where he gets to help another human succeed.  You are a warrior my brother and we should all learn from your example.  It’s not all pretty, but either way good can come out of bad.  The struggle isn't in vein if you are striving to help others.  We as addicts learn from each other, what better source of information is there than another addict or alcoholic. Preach my brother Preach!!#addcition #recovery #selfless #helpothers #servicework #wedorecover #Pittsburgh #Pennsylvania #California #hollywood #podcaster #podcast #motivational #trendingvideo #sobriety #sober #courage #strength #hope #faith #steelcityroundtablepodcast #fellowship #community #bestlife #betterdecisions #selfhelp #lifelessons #growthmindset #personalgrowth #sharingiscaring #truth #stories #communication

In this episode Natalie and I go head to head discussing cops and attorneys.  We all choose our path through this world.  Cops and attorneys are no different.  The difference is that not all careers put you in front of the public eye.  When working in the criminal justice system privacy goes out the window.  Everything you do is criticized, second guessed and picked apart piece by piece.  Does this mean that the "higher standard" idea removes the idea of basic humanity, feelings, and personal opinion?  Yes we all choose our path but we are all still part of the human condition.  We all suffer the same struggles, stresses, and challenges.  Why should cops and attorneys be any different? Natalie and I talk about these ideas and we do not always agree.  The difference is that we talked through it and both came to an understanding of one another's view points.  Communication is key and leads to mutual understanding.  Come join us was we get real....again!

Life places people in your lives for a reason. Throughout our lives we meet so many people that have the potential to affect us both positively and negatively. Matt Brooks is one of those people for me. I met Matt in rehab down in Delray Beach Florida in May of 2023. He was the first "client" I met when I got there and we later became roommates. Late night bitch sessions, deep conversations and sharing the experience formed a bond that will never be broken. Matt helped and guided me through my time at rehab and became one of my closest friend. My experience in rehab and my recovery would not be the same without him. Knowing that Matty B. shared his life and experiences with me helped shaped who I am as a sober human. Don't believe me listen to Matty as he tells his journey with alcohol and his ongoing recovery. I'm sure some of you will relate. I love you Matty B. as my brother and always will. Thank you for coming into my life when you did, I will never be the same!!

Welcome back to my partner in crime Natalie Snyder. She is back in the mix after taking some personal time....unapporved by her boss of course!! So glad your back kid!! I expected her to be back sooner......that brings us to the topic for this episode unreasonable expectations. What are they and why do we set ourselves up for failure! Throughout my recovery journey I have had to come to terms with my ability to totally screw myself by setting unreasonable expectations. We sit down and talk about some of the problems we have faced and experiences we have witnessed from the outside. Add a side of narcissism to the mix and you got a show! I have a history of narcissism and I'm not proud of it. Let's just say I am qualified to speak on this subject in depth. And don't worry Natalie never holds back. We decided to put these topics together because they both can have an extremely negative affect on our mental health. Hope you enjoy!!

Bart Heaney is an emergency services dispatcher in the Pittsburgh area. He was previously a EMT and also hosts the Weight We Carry Podcast. I've known Bart for a long time and he is one hell of a human. He has dedicated his life to serving his community and the first responders that work within these communities. Bart also has a a really heart hitting story of recovery. Bart struggles with PTSD like so many of us. Through the support of his family and support network he is arisen from the darkness to live his best life. Bart sat down with me to talk about his journey and his struggles. He is nothing less than amazing if you ask me. Not only is he handling business with his mental health, he is also paying it forward with his podcast and his willingness to share his story. Thanks again Bart love you man! Can't wait to hear wha you do next. #PTSD#mentalhealth#recovery#struggles#truestory#podcast#interview#conversation#sharing#firstresponder#EMT

Tony Moreno is a retired LEO and current Mayoral candidate in Pittsburgh PA.  I met Tony back in 2007 when he taught my LEO academy class.  Throughout the years we formed a working as well as personal relationship.  Between the two of us we have seen some down right horrible officers and supervisors.  In this episode Tony and I rip into the inadequacies and straight up corruption in law enforcement.  Those of you in active status know what we are saying is true, and you would say it too if you weren't employed by one of the LEO agencies and at risk of losing everything.  We're out so don't give a shit!.  We believe that the majority of LEO are good and just, performing this duty with the highest purpose.........to help others.  For those of you who choose to do shady shit, you deserve to get called out.  We are talking about perpetuating personal agendas and policies, cheating the system to make more money, and down and out just being shitty.  We speak of OUR experiences and do not speak for anyone else.  If you don't like it go back to watching reality tv and ignore that this is a problem.  Once again there are a select few that manipulate the system for their ultimate benefit and these people suck!!#LEO #police #badapples #corrupt #justice #injustice #morality #moralcompass #values #dishonest #personalagenda #bethesolution #gooddecisions #thinbluelineisbroken #purpose #professionalism #citizensfirst #serveandprotect #dotherightthing #shadyshit

Scottie G. is a functional aging specialist and the host of Just Be with Scottie G..  What is a functional aging specialist? I had no clue until I met Scottie.  Do you want to live a fuller life and be present for those around you or do you want to be an isolated, crotchety miserable old person?  Most of us dread getting older because we only see the negatives.  Scottie is a visionary who shows us how to experience and enjoy aging process.  We don't have to sit back, isolate and dread the process.  Scottie shows people how to attack the aging process in order to live a fuller and more rounded life.  Why be old why not be a happy mature adult. I know I'm not going out pissing, shitting and crying without a fight. The best part of going over the hill is experiencing the ride down the other side #aging #health #functionalagingspecialist #conversation

When people talk about addiction and recovery it's always negative in nature. I mean I get it and I do it too. It is such a serious disease affecting so many people. I tend to forget that I have gained so much through my recovery journey. Natalie has fought her demons as well finding new life. In this episode we talk about how our lives were, things we have done during recovery, and where our lives are now(a little AA spin). We are not blowing smoke uo your butt, it has not all been pretty flours and celebrations. We have seen our hard times as well. We always have to remember that we are alive and we are here fighting to maintain the wonderful lives we have been given. Don't ever give up and do not let the bad shit win......EVER!! It is a privilege to be sharing what we have experienced with you our SCRT family.

No crazy description here. Two podcaster coming together to spread the word. Addiction, mental health and recovery along with life in general. Nothing is off limits. Drew Moore is awesome and I am lucky to be working with him. Together we accomplish more! Drew Moore and Mark Kneebone coming together to talk our truths and our lives.

Ever get in an argument with a friend because of miscommunication? It's not always easy to communicate with people close to you. Feelings and butts get hurt and not intentionally. Natalie and I just had one of those moments. Statements misunderstood and messages not received.....pitfalls of talking to those close to you. Somehow this episode took a turn and we ended up talking about some poor practices LEO's fall into that could cause issues. Poor report writing directly affects a police officer and their credibility. Hear both sides of the coin from a former LEO and an active criminal defense attorney. Another fun episode for the SCRT family!! Check us out at steelcityroundtablepodcast.com or email us at [email protected]. We want to hear your story

Josh Shimko has been an LEO for over two decades. He has served in metropolitan as well as smaller departments throughout his distinguished career. He has seen it all and has the scars and the tee shirt. Josh was diagnosed with PTSD and depression as a result of his experiences on the job. You know how his two decades of service were rewarded? Not a "thank you" or a "job well done" that's for sure. Instead his current department is trying to shove him out the door rather than help him recover and heal. This is absolutely disgusting in every way. These police departments truly do not care about the mental well being of their officers. It's more about saving money and checking the DEI boxes. If you are an LEO this is definitely a do not miss no brainer. The verdict is in, you don't matter to the powers that be. You are merely a tool to be used and thrown away when you are no longer useful to them and their misguided agendas. Tune in as we tell you how it really is!!

Holidays bring with them a lot of joy and togetherness...they also bring headaches, stress, arguments, misunderstanding, binge drinking (my old favorite) and a lot of not so fun things. How do we navigate these waters and get through these times without someone going to the hospital or jail? Do you drink and hide from everyone or do you face the problems and make the best of the situation? My old M.O. was drink myself stupid so that nothing bothers me except for a lack of hard alcohol. Unlike the average person who either deals with the situation the best they can or ignores the problem and faces an incredibly annoying and irritating experience. We all face holidays and general family dynamics in different ways. What is your strategy for dealing with the holidays? In this episode Natalie and I talk about or experiences and opinions....as always we tell it how we see it.

In this episode we talk about a lost idea in the criminal justice system, and life in general. Empathy and more to the point the lack of empathy. Why do some LEO's have preconceived opinions of people and situations prior to actually getting there? Shouldn't they treat every situation separately on a case by case basis? These are just some of the things we talk about. We are not saying all LEO are like this, more that it has become a negative pattern in the criminal justice system to judge people on personal bias and not on the actions and behaviors observed. Another concern is why many LEO approach people with the "I'm better than you" attitude instead of remembering we are all human. Who better to talk about this than a former LEO and a criminal defense attorney. As always it's our opinions so please voice yours.

An alcoholic and an attorney talk about the holidays and the ups and downs

One of my closest friends passed away tragically 6/1/2024. Kenny "Finn" Finnegan was one hell of a human. Like everyone he had his flaws. I was lucky enough to do an episode with him shortly before he passed. Having this video recording brings some comfort when I start thinking about him and begin falling into that dark place. Being sober makes this so much harder. When I was a drunk I didn't feel anything. Now I am forced to feel and deal. Who I am would not be possible without Finn. He was my biggest supporter while I was struggling to get sober and stay sober. This episode will forever be the most meaningful to me. It's taken a while to let it go but it's time to share the beautiful person Finn was. I am so lucky to have had him in my life........til we ride again my brother.

We want to hear your thoughts.As a police officer there were parts of the job that got under my skin. Long hours, piss poor supervisors, crappy cars, mediocre training and of course attorneys. It didn't matter what side of the law they were on they drove me nuts. Whether it was a public defender with little experience or a criminal defense attorney with an attitude. I learned to just take them as a hazard of the job. So I recently started thinking.....maybe I sho...

We want to hear your thoughts.Mental health awareness has become a very popular theme, and for good reason. Many of us are physically healthy but not mentally. We fool ourselves on a daily basis that we are healthy and that our lives are great. I'm gonna call bull shit on that one. We don't spend enough time understanding who we are mentally and what is going on between our ears. I speak from experience when I say ignoring your mental health can lead to some very...

We want to hear your thoughts.Jon Atkinson is a 23 year veteran working as a paramedic in Pittsburgh PA. He is currently the president of their union, rescue paramedic, volunteer fireman and a tactical medic with the police SWAT unit. We met while I was a police officer in Pittsburgh. He and I met answering 911 calls and a friendship grew from there. Becoming a paramedic is not the easiest of tasks. Paramedics see a lot of bad shit and suffer from the same issues...

We want to hear your thoughts.Plain and simple, we are simple. We speak from our experiences including all our mistakes. Our way isn't the right way, the only way or even the best way but it is working for us. Kells and I struggled working through the steps, and Kells is still pushing through. Believing in a power we cannot see, touch, feel, hear or smell is a difficult proposition. It's taken me a long time to work through my past Andy issues. Kells and I always talk ...

We want to hear your thoughts.Dr. Casey Phillips is a chiropractor in Pittsburgh Pa. Dr. Phillips has been a very big influence in my life. Outside of seeking his medical advice he has also listened to a ton of my nonsense over the years. Casey has not always had an easy go of it. His path to becoming a successful chiropractor took a surprising route. He has had some amazing and unbelievable experiences along the way. In this episode Dr. Phillips talks abou...

We want to hear your thoughts.Just like every other profession not every cop is the same, spoiler alert. People join the force for different reasons and motivations, some good and some bad. Just because they wear the badge does not make them equal. When you enter law enforcement with good intentions the chances of becoming a "good" cop are much higher. "Bad" cops usually come from selfish motivations and ideas of fame and success. Being a cop is a very difficult ...

We want to hear your thoughts.I got sober May 5, 2023. What an amazing year It has been. I honestly never thought I would stay sober after I came home from treatment. I still had the alcoholic mindset that I could always go back to drinking sometime, just do it smarter and better. The last 12 months of ups ad downs have taught me so much about who I truly am. I AM an alcoholic, I am a mess, I am struggling.......but I will never be broken again!! With the ...

We want to hear your thoughts.There is always an argument about whether or not women should be in law enforcement. Spending 12 years as an officer and detective I have had the opportunity to work with officers from all backgrounds. I have my personal opinions on this topic. What are your thoughts? Let's get Ito it!!We love you and there is always a seat for you at the Steel City Round Table!

We want to hear your thoughts.In this episode my guest is my friend and an awesome guy, Keith Fetsko. Keith is a soft spoken guy with one hell of a story. He is a family man and spiritual man. A cancer diagnosis could have ended him but he fought through and kept going. Cancer showed its ugly mug again and he kicked its ass again. I'm amazed and the will and the courage that cancer patients show when they fight to get cancer out of their bodies......what's mote a...

We want to hear your thoughts.In this episode I am joined by my friend Keith Fetsko and co-host Kelly Gibson. Kelly was the victim of an abusive relationship. Her strength has helped her forge a new path in sobriety and her mental health. Kells took the time to talk about how domestic violence has affected and changed her life. Bottom line domestic violence is an act of power and violence. It is disgusting on all levels. Listen in while Kelly holds nothing back i...

We want to hear your thoughts.Have you ever attended an AA/NA meeting? Ever want to know what they are like? A lot of us feel that these programs won't help or are just a bunch of BS. Going to AA saved me from relapse more times than I can count. The fellowship you form, the friends you make and the honesty of the program. Many people have a bad idea or negative opinion of these programs. In the end NA/AA are tools at your disposal in the fight to recover from addictio...

We want to hear your thoughts.Jake Miclot is the owner and head coach at True Believer Jiu Jitsu in Pittsburgh PA. He is an accomplished competitor and and talented instructor. His methodology for instruction is a winning formula. Education through inclusion and equality. Everyone earns their place while everyone is accepted. His gym is highly competitive and fosters a highly competitive atmosphere. Jake sat down with me to talk about his journey from...

We want to hear your thoughts.Brandon is a dear friend of mine and a true warrior. He is a former marine, professional MMA fighter, MMA coach and an addict in recovery. We met while we were taking our vacation in treatment. Brandon has battled addiction and mental health like most of us. His unique experiences and personality made my treatment journey a lot of fun....no BS. Brandon sits down with me in a two parter to tell his story all the good the bad and the s...

We want to hear your thoughts.Joining me in this episode is my sobriety buddy Kelly "Kells" Gibson. Living in addiction we forget how important our relationships truly are. Finding sobriety we have to relearn what it is like to have relationships whether good or bad. We have to own up to our part in these relationships. We have to decide which ones we can start to heal and which ones we have destroyed beyond repair. It doesn't get easier in sobriety because now we feel...

We want to hear your thoughts.Brandon dives into his addiction in part two. His life has led him down some dirty roads and he fights everyday to stay the path. His honesty and openness about his experiences still blows me away. From fighting professionally, to the military and to his traumas. Brandon holds nothing back when discussing what he has gone through and continues to go through. Like I said before....a true warrior. Hope you enjoy or discussion.We ...

We want to hear your thoughts.Getting sober is only the first step in a very long and rewarding journey. Just because we get sober does not mean that we will stay sober. The deck is stacked against us. We have to face a lot of adversity in the early days of recovery. The key is remember that help is all around us if we are willing to look for it.We love you and there is always a seat for you at the Steel City Round Table!

We want to hear your thoughts.The first episode of the Steel City Round Table Podcast is finally here!! We've gone through some trials getting this thing off the ground, but we are very proud of what we have accomplished. John, Kells and I figured the way to start this thing off is to give everyone a little background on us and the SCRT. Bottom line is we are all a little screwed up, but we are making our lives better on a daily basis by dedicating ourselves to our own recov...