Talking Addiction & Recovery

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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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&sSupport 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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] Talking 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.

Family members and loved ones who have been impacted by someone’s substance use have often tried several different approaches, solutions, and efforts to “fix the problem.”  The efforts and attempts were not short in supply; and yet often family members and loved ones identify feeling frustrated when things haven’t changed.  Sometimes we have to look at what’s in our hands and reflecting on what we thought may have been a solution is only digging us further down into the problem.  Amber Hollingsworth joins this episode to talk about how she has spent 20 years helping families navigate the paths of addiction and highlights the platform she uses to help educate and provide resources.  Her YouTube channel, “Put the Shovel Down” offers a catalogue of videos for family members and loved ones to help do just that, and navigate some of the messy parts of addiction.  About the Guest:Amber has spent the past 20 years helping families navigate the messiest parts of addiction, and through her Hope For Families Recovery Center and her YouTube channel Put The Shovel Down, she’s become a steady guide for over 700,000 followers dealing with this struggle every day.Amber believes families don’t have to sit on the sidelines and wait for someone to “hit bottom.” Her approach is practical and compassionate, centered on early, strategic intervention. She provides families with real tools to communicate, set boundaries without ultimatums, and move from conflict and enabling to genuine support. Whether it’s about reaching someone in denial, handling functional alcoholism, or knowing when to step back for your own well-being, Amber’s insights are drawn straight from decades on the front lines.She also knows how addiction fractures family dynamics, and teaches families how to rally together as a team instead of being pitted against each other. Her "Invisible Intervention" approach offers an alternative for those burned out by confrontational models, showing how subtle shifts and empathy can prompt lasting change.https://www.familyrecoveryacademy.online/Amber Put The Shovel Down - YouTube 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] Talking 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.

Would riding hundreds of miles on a bicycle lead to sobriety from alcohol use?  In Sherry Hoppen’s “Sober Cycle: Pedaling Through Recovery One Day at a Time” she describes her journey through alcoholism and recovery.  As she pedalled her way through, she dealt with vulnerability, shame, and isolation of hiding her secret of alcohol use.  Listen as she talks about the family perspective, what her journey on the bike taught her, whether or not she still rides today, and the passion she shares in helping others.About the Guest:Sherry Hoppen has lived in West Michigan her entire life, and has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Internationally, she has never lived more than five miles from her childhood home. She worked in various areas of a pregnancy care ministry for over ten years, first as a volunteer then as an employee. She and her husband have three adult children and four grandchildren and love being active in whatever they do. As empty nesters, they enjoy cycling and finding new trails to explore together. Sherry is an avid reader who loves writing, decorating, and time spent on Michigan’s beautiful beaches.Sherry launched She Surrenders in 2016, a ministry designed to encourage freedom from addiction with Biblical truths, a deepening relationship with the Lord, and the fellowship found in a healing community.Website: www.SheSurrenders.com https://www.selahhouserecovery.org/ Sober Cycle: Amazon.com: Sober Cycle (Second Edition): Pedaling Through Recovery One Day at a Time: 9781951310899: Sherry Hoppen: BooksSupport 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] Talking 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.

The overdose crisis has left few untouched. Many of us know someone (whether a client, colleague, friend, or family member) who has died from an overdose. For helping professionals, repeated exposure to loss can quietly build a kind of emotional armor.  What happens when that armor turns into desensitization? In this episode, we talk about the hidden grief that comes with working in the midst of the overdose epidemic, how professionals can become numb to repeated losses, and the toll it takes on our well-being. We’ll explore coping strategies, ways to process grief in a profession that often pushes it aside, and why acknowledging these emotions is critical for sustaining ourselves and the work we do.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] Talking 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.

Description: What is happening with sports betting?  Jonathan D. Cohen, author of the illuminating Losing Big: America’s Reckless Bet on Sports Gambling. Cohen traces the astonishing evolution of sports wagering from underground parlors to online sportsbooks lobbying for legalization. We dive into what happened with legislation in 2018 and before, the consequences for certain populations, and what this monumental shift means for the future of betting culture. Whether you're a casual fan or a policy advocate, this conversation sheds light on the high stakes of America’s gambling dive and what we About the Guest:Jonathan D. Cohen is the author of Losing Big: America's Reckless Bet on Sports Gambling and For a Dollar and a Dream: State Lotteries in Modern America.https://www.jonathandcohen.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] Talking 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 a candid conversation with David Alford (producer, director, writer, and founder) and Joseph Stam (award winner actor, co-director, and co-writer) of Searching for the Elephant. Set against the rugged beauty of a Southern ranch, this powerful drama follows Jason Bowden (Stam) as he reconnects—with his estranged Vietnam‑veteran grandfather, Griff (Rick McVey), and ultimately with himself. We’ll dig into themes of addiction, healing through family bonds, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and the transformative power of location‑driven storytelling.About the Guests:David Alford is a producer, director, writer, and founder of Cross Purposes Productions. David has spent decades in the world of storytelling—first in Christian radio, then as a theater actor and director, and now as a filmmaker. After graduating from the University of Texas with a degree in Radio-Television-Film, he worked in Christian music and talk radio before transitioning to teaching and theater. David brings a wealth of knowledge on faith based filmmaking, from writing and directing to production and distribution, making him an invaluable guest for conversations on storytelling, faith, and media. Joseph Stam is an award-winning actor, co director, and co-writer, Joseph has been integral to Cross Purposes Productions since his teenage years. He brings a fresh perspective on acting, writing, and directing in faith-driven projects. He grew up immersed in storytelling, first on stage and later behind the camera. He landed his first film role at 16 and quickly expanded his expertise, becoming a co-writer, co-director, and associate producer on multiple films. With a deep passion for faith-driven storytelling, Joseph has earned recognition as both a youth and adult actor, appearing at major Christian film festivals and securing global distribution deals. 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] Talking 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 enlightening episode join us for a profound conversation with sociologist and psychotherapist Ross Ellenhorn, author of Purple Crayons: The Art of Drawing a Life. Ellenhorn delves into the concept of "sacred originality," exploring how embracing one's unique inner life and creativity can be a transformative force in recovery. Drawing inspiration from the classic children's book Harold and the Purple Crayon, he discusses the importance of playfulness, imagination, and self-determination in overcoming life’s challenges. Listeners will gain insights into how reclaiming their inherent creativity can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life journeyAbout the Guest:Dr. Ellenhorn is a pioneer and leader in the development and promotion of community integration services, types of care that serve and empower individuals diagnosed with psychiatric and/or addiction issues while they remain in their own communities and outside institutional settings.Trained as a sociologist, psychotherapist and social worker, Ross Ellenhorn, Ph.D., created the first fully operational intensive hospital-diversion and wraparound program in Massachusetts, and went on to establish and lead one of the first public Programs for Assertive Community Treatment teams in the state. He is the owner and CEO of Ellenhorn, the most robust community-integration program in the United States, which offers services outside of a hospital or residential setting for individuals experiencing addictive behaviors and/or extreme and complex states of mind and mood. Ellenhorn has offices in Boston, New York and Los Angeles.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] Talking 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.

Ever wonder what a road trip for recovery would look like?  In Recovery Road Trip: A Journal for Your Journey, author Patti Clark authors a unique, interactive guide designed to support individuals on their personal path to recovery. We explore how journaling can be a powerful tool for reflection, healing, and self-discovery, and how this book offers encouragement, structure, and inspiration for anyone working through addiction or supporting someone who is. Whether you're in recovery, a professional in the field, or simply curious about the role creativity plays in healing, this conversation offers practical insights and heartfelt stories from the road to recovery.About the Guest:Patti Clark is the award-winning author of This Way Up: Seven Tools for Unleashing Your Creative Self and Transforming Your Life.   She has been featured on TVNZ’s Breakfast Show, and her work has been featured in numerous publications including The Wall Street Journal, The Boston Globe, The Mindful Word, and Thrive Global.  Her own experience as a middle-aged woman in recovery is deeply reflected in her new book, Recovery Road Trip:  Finding Purpose and Connection on the Journey Home. Links:Website: https://www.patticlark.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] Talking 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 welcome Cindy Brinker Simmons, author of "Restored: Reconnecting Life's Broken Pieces." Cindy shares her insights on overcoming personal loss and the importance of choosing joy and trusting God, regardless of circumstances. Join us as we explore practical tools and biblical truths to help navigate life's hardships and find hope and peace.Guest Information:Cindy Brinker Simmons is a best-selling author, businesswoman, and philanthropist who cares deeply about helping people in the midst of life’s challenges. She is a living, breathing champion of joy. Cindy's victory in overcoming the sorrow of multiple personal losses provides comfort and hope to those struggling through life’s most difficult trials. For years, she has walked alongside hurting people to encourage and help them confidently press forward, choose joy, and trust God no matter the circumstances. Cindy lost her beautiful mother, the late great tennis champion Maureen “Little Mo” Connolly Brinker, to cancer in 1969 when she was twelve and thirty-six years later, lost her beloved husband, Bob, to cancer. She has an adult son, William. All net proceeds from the sale of her Amazon best-selling book, Restored: Reconnecting Life’s Broken Pieces, will be donated to Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer and the Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation. Links:https://brinkersimmons.com/https://www.instagram.com/cindybrinkersimmons.author https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkrePBJWcAnV4e9GC16IGQ https://www.facebook.com/cindybrinkersimmons.author/ 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] Talking 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 Paul Summers Jr., author of "Hide and Seek: A Dad's Journey From Soulless Addiction to Sole Custody." Paul shares his raw and inspiring story of battling addiction, the transformative path to recovery, and his fight to regain custody of his daughter. Join us as we delve into the depths of addiction, the challenges of the recovery process and other systems, and the profound love of a father determined to rebuild his life and family.Guest Information:Committed to increasing understanding and connection by dismantling the stigmas toward parents afflicted with substance abuse disorder and their children, Paul has written Hide and Seek: A Dad’s Journey From Soulless Addiction to Sole Custody. His experience-based knowledge offers a frightening glimpse into that which lies at the core of the overdose epidemic – the guiding thoughts within the mind of the addict/alcoholic.Continuously seeking ways to give back, Paul is a certified sound healer. He creates soundscapes proven by modern neuroscience to ease and heal the damaging effects of withdrawals. One of his guitars is on display at the Punk Rock Museum in Las Vegas, NV.Links:Website:  paulsummersjr.comInstagram: @paul_summers_jrFacebook:  paulsummers777YouTube: YouTube ChroniclesSupport 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] Talking 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.

Gambling Disorder is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, often dismissed as a lack of control rather than a serious disorder. In this special episode for Problem Gambling Awareness Month 2025, we explore the theme “Seeking Understanding” by shedding light on the realities of problem gambling, breaking down myths, and sharing real numbers behind the problem. Through interactive questions, eye-opening statistics, and actionable insights, we’ll challenge assumptions and provide the knowledge needed to foster empathy and support for those affected by gambling-related harm.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] Talking 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.

Harm reduction vending machines are a polarizing topic, often criticized as enabling risky behaviors.  When a news article announced that a local community has a harm reduction vending machine now available it sparked uproar in the comments section.  This becomes an opportunity to break the stigma as it hits closer to home. In this episode, we dive into the debate, separating myths from facts with evidence-based statistics. Join us as we explore how these machines are saving lives, reducing overdoses, and fostering healthier communities. We'll address common criticisms, highlight the science behind harm reduction strategies, and discuss their real-world impact on public health.https://www.fox6now.com/news/south-milwaukee-harm-reduction-vending-machine-public?utm_campaign=trueAnthem%3A%20Trending%20Content&utm_medium=trueanthem&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1zqmnzHLI7QYdgdwoAEa0iphJaCo86_jGQqupxljs_J7qaB3X-DSRliyI_aem_m3zIb9-9Gi76wGiaSaiMQw#a8n0hx2ylhwkdyo4j2cpn4fpnswwhyob 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] Talking 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 dive into the complexities of the opioid crisis with Dr. Elizabeth Chiarello, associate professor of sociology and author of Policing Patients: Treatment and Surveillance on the Frontlines of the Opioid Crisis. Drawing from hundreds of interviews with physicians, pharmacists, and law enforcement agents, Dr. Chiarello explores how prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) are reshaping the boundaries between healthcare and criminal justice.We discuss the challenges faced by medical providers navigating between treatment and surveillance, the unintended consequences of PDMPs, and how these tools are both a resource and a "Trojan horse" for patient care. Dr. Chiarello offers critical insights on harm reduction, balancing care with safety, and the policies needed to improve outcomes for those impacted by opioid use disorder.About the Guest: Dr. Elizabeth ChiarelloElizabeth Chiarello’s POLICING PATIENTS: Treatment and Surveillance on the Frontlines of the Opioid CrisisElizabeth Chiarello is an associate professor of sociology at Saint Louis University, a former fellow at the Harvard Radcliffe Institute, and a frequent public commentator on opioid-related topics. She and her work have been featured in The New York Times, USA Today and on Bloomberg News, among other leading media outlets.In Policing Patients, Chiarello draws on hundreds of in-depth interviews with physicians, pharmacists, and enforcement agents across the United States to take readers to the frontlines of the opioid crisis, where medical providers must make difficult choices between treating and punishing the people in their care. States now employ prescription drug monitoring programs capable of tracking all controlled substances within a state and across state lines. Chiarello describes how the reliance on these databases blurs the line between medicine and criminal justice and pits pain sufferers against people with substance-use disorders in a zero-sum game.Shedding critical light on this brave new world of healthcare, Policing Patients urges medical providers to reaffirm their roles as healers and proposes invaluable policy solutions centered on treatment, prevention, and harm reduction.Contact Information:www.lizchiarello.comTwitter: @Liz_ChiarelloBluesky: @lizchiarello.bsky.socialSupport 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] Talking 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, Saul Malek shares his compelling story of transitioning from a casual love of fantasy sports to the dangerous world of sports betting. Saul opens up about how he shares his personal story of the rapid decline he experienced during his college years that ultimately led to life-changing consequences and his path to recovery. He discusses his mission to educate youth, adolescents, and college audiences about the risks of modern gambling. Saul reflects on respecting autonomy, spreading his message across various platforms, and the challenges of speaking truth in spaces that may not want to hear it. Join us for an insightful conversation about the realities of gambling and the hope of recovery.About the Guest: Saul MalekBiography: I grew up in Houston, Texas, to a loving family. I was blessed to attend the prestigious St John's School from sixth grade through high school, learning many things and discovering a variety of interests.  Hobbies like choir and French competitions kept me busy, but I found I was most passionate about fantasy sports. The St John's fantasy baseball league was a way to enjoy baseball and connect with friends, remaining a staple of my life through my freshman year of college at Trinity University. Everything changed my sophomore year when an acquaintance introduced me to sports betting through his local bookmaker. Suddenly the slow paced season long fantasy league was too tame for me... I needed action. In just under 2 years, from September 2017 to July 2019, I lost sleep, money, time, relationships, and almost my life. I knew I needed help. Now more than 5 years abstinent of gambling, I have made it my mission to educate others so that they can avoid the same mistakes I made. I have been invited to speak to schools, podcasts, news outlets, and other organizations as the trusted source on modern gambling.Contact: Website: https://www.saulmalek.com/ E-mail: [email protected] Social Media:Instagram: Saul Malek (@saulmalekspeaking) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saulmalek/ 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] Talking 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 dive into the Gift Responsibly Campaign, an initiative dedicated to educating communities about the risks of gifting lottery tickets to children and raising awareness about youth gambling. We explore the harm of early exposure to gambling, the psychology behind gifting gambling-related items, and provide alternative gift ideas for loved ones. Join us as we share resources for responsible gambling, discuss eye-opening statistics on youth gambling, and reaffirm our podcast’s commitment to the campaign. Let’s protect our youth and foster a culture of informed, responsible choices.To learn more about the #giftresponsibly campaign visit: Gift Responsibly Campaign. 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] Talking 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 take to advocate on behalf of others who are impacted by substance use?  Sarah Laurel, Executive Director of Savage Sisters, begins where it matters most: the community.  She joins this episode to share about her own journey and how it led to developing services related to housing, harm reduction, developing the first Xylazine training, and addressing public health issues that go unnoticed.  Listen as she talks about her motivation to continue advocating for people who use substances, harm reduction, public health, and social justice and her vision as her team continues to knock down barriers to provide crucial services to their communities.  About the Guest:Sarah Laurel (Executive Director of Savage Sisters)After recovering from substance use disorder, Sarah sought to offer resources to women like herself. What began organically grew into a program providing housing, street-based outreach and nationwide training. Sarah uses her lived experiences to serve others and stay relatable to those still struggling. She leverages her corporate background to lead the Savage team thoughtfully, productively, and sustainably. Sarah is the recipient of several awards, including a Congressional Medal of Honor. She was featured on two Emmy award-winning episodes of Vice News and CBS News. Additionally, she created the first Xylazine training, delivering it both locally and nationally. Her advocacy for people who use substances, harm reduction, public health, and social justice has been consistent and groundbreaking.Website:https://savagesisters.org/Social Media Links:https://www.instagram.com/sarah.laurel.517/https://www.facebook.com/sarah.laurel.90https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-laurel-7314631b6/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] Talking 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.

To many individuals, the mission of bringing awareness to problem gambling does not have a start and end date.  For those people, it is a never ending campaign to speak up and shine a light in an area that is … Episode 113: On a Mission to Raise Problem Gambling Awareness (featuring Dave Yeager) Read More »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] Talking 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 does a town hall approach turn into filming a Night of Recovery?  Christopher Dreisbach wanted to find a way to share powerful stories to his communities.  He believed that compassionate and genuine vulnerability is what can heal us and … Episode 115: A Night FOR Recovery (featuring Chris Dreisbach) Read More »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] Talking 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 there is a substantial gap in how we currently approach substance use?  Sheila P. Vakharia is an author, sought-after speaker, and national expert on harm reduction and drug policy.  Her recent book, “The Harm Reduction Gap” provides … Episode 114: Filling the Harm Reduction Gap (featuring Sheila P. Vakharia) Read More »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] Talking 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 do family remembers and loved ones react to someone’s substance use, gambling, pornography, and other behaviors?  As a system, the impact can be understandably overwhelming and what happens can result in trauma.  For many family and loved ones, that … Episode 112: Working in a System of Trauma (featuring Dr. Michael Barnes) Read More » www.barnesedandconsulting.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] Talking 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.