Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Kyle Zimmer, the Health and Safety Director for the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 478. Kyle’s journey into peer recovery work is nothing short of extraordinary, beginning with the tragic power plant explosion in Middletown, Connecticut in 2010. Drawing from his extensive background in fire service and construction safety, Kyle shares the critical lessons learned and parallels between these fields, especially when it comes to addressing stress and mental health in stoic work environments.

Discover how breaking down stigmas around addiction and recovery can transform lives and workplaces. Kyle highlights the groundbreaking efforts of figures like Greg Williams, and organizations such as Facing Addiction, demonstrating how high-level advocacy and peer support can shift public perception and workplace policies. The conversation underscores the urgent need for more peer workers to effectively address addiction, further illuminated by examples of impactful events and meetings with influential leaders.

Finally, we delve into the integration of recovery-friendly practices within workplaces and the broader issue of comprehensive wellness programs. Learn about Jerry, a retired EAP turned licensed drug and alcohol counselor, whose personalized intervention services have revolutionized support for union members. From addressing worker fatigue to advocating for naloxone distribution, Kyle emphasizes the importance of creating a worker-friendly environment that prioritizes overall health and productivity. This episode is a powerful testament to the positive changes that can arise from dedicated advocacy and compassionate support systems.

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) -  from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and how to addres...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Amanda Polich, a powerhouse in the recovery and leadership space. As a certified Dare to Lead facilitator and a person in long term recovery (11-years), Amanda's journey from shame and stigma to empowerment is nothing short of transformative. She candidly shares her professional roles at UKG, her impactful volunteer work as the board chair for the Council on Recovery in Houston, and how embracing authenticity has shaped her leadership style. Through Amanda's story, hear how Dare to Lead training has been pivotal in her quest to Recover Out Loud and foster a supportive community.

Ever wondered how sharing your recovery journey could impact your career? We explore this with Amanda, taking cues from Brené Brown and other public figures like Rob Lowe, who have turned their sobriety into a source of strength and inspiration. From managing responses with 'the pause' to navigating the various paths to sobriety, this episode underscores the importance of owning your story. You'll discover how speaking openly about recovery can influence both personal growth and professional success, creating ripple effects that encourage others to seek help and make positive changes.

We'll also discuss the significance of recovery in corporate environments, featuring initiatives at companies like Cisco and UKG that aim to destigmatize addiction and build supportive cultures. Amanda shares her firsthand experiences of creating sober-friendly spaces and the joys of sobriety, from newfound freedoms to the small yet profound gifts of gratitude and presence. Learn how Brené Brown's "Dare to Lead" principles are being applied not just in personal lives but in workplaces, contributing to a broader movement toward resilience and recovery support. Tune in and discover how embracing recovery can transform both your personal and professional life.

Amanda Polich on LinkedIn
The Council on Recovery (Houston)
Brené Brown - Dare to Lead™ Hub

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) -  from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and how to addres...

When Megan Tweedy lost her brother Jeff Meyer to a fentanyl overdose, her world was turned upside down. Join us as Megan opens up about her journey from grief to advocacy, sharing her deeply personal story and the powerful message of International Overdose Awareness Day. She candidly discusses the emotional toll of losing a loved one to substance use disorder and the vital role that this day plays in honoring those who have been affected.

In this episode, we tackle the pervasive stigma surrounding opioid use disorder and the urgent need to treat addiction as a medical condition. Megan sheds light on the barriers to accessing life-saving treatments like buprenorphine and methadone, and the critical importance of harm reduction programs. We discuss the nuances of law enforcement and judicial challenges, emphasizing the necessity of shifting perspectives and regulations to support those battling addiction.

Moreover, we confront the contrasting societal views on alcohol versus opioids, examining cultural biases and their impact on public perception. Megan's heartfelt stories highlight the devastating effects of opioid addiction, emphasizing the need for Narcan and the power of visibility in fostering hope and catalyzing change. As we share recovery stories and advocate for awareness, our goal is to inspire collective action and cultivate a compassionate approach to the opioid crisis.

The People's Harm Reduction Alliance - Get free Naloxone (Narcan) in the State of Washington
International Overdose Awareness Day 2024 — for those we've lost - Article in the hometown newspaper, The Yakima Herald, written by Megan Tweedy
Odds of Dying - Risk of dying of an overdose from the National Safety Council
How to Administer Naloxone
Painkiller - Netflix series starring Matthew Broderick about the start of the opioid crisis in the US.

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) -  from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and how to addres...

My childhood friend, Keri Clark, takes us through his tumultuous yet inspiring journey of grappling with substance use disorder. We reminisce about our wild teenage years and the different paths we took post-high school, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the intersection of mental health and addiction.

In a revelation that's both sobering and enlightening, Keri candidly discusses the clever tactics he used to disguise his drinking problem at work, from meticulous wardrobe choices to strategic sick days. The episode takes a deeper turn as we explore his eventual acceptance of his alcoholism, the internal battles he faced, and the profound realization that his journey to sobriety was a deeply personal one.

The power of community and social support is a recurring theme, as we share personal anecdotes that highlight how crucial old friendships and shared experiences are in the recovery process. Whether it's navigating the emotional turmoil of maintaining relationships while overcoming addiction or becoming a beacon of hope for others, this episode underscores the importance of honesty, self-awareness, and the necessity of making recovery programs work on a personal level. Join us for a candid, heartfelt conversation filled with humor and honesty.

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) -  from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and how to addres...

Karen Duggan, a friend and former co-worker from Cisco Systems, joins me to share some of her journey of achieving and maintaining sobriety. Together, we explore the impact of finding solidarity with another sober colleague in a large corporation, and how important this connection has been for Brett.  In Recovery Friendly Workplaces, this will become commonplace.

Creating Recovery Friendly Workplace environments is no easy task, especially when considering diverse cultural contexts and the unique challenges of international corporations like Cisco where we worked together. Karen and I dive into practical strategies, such as framing abstinence from alcohol as an "allergy," to navigate social situations.

Inclusivity is key to fostering belonging in the workplace. From offering non-alcoholic options at events to small acts of consideration can make a big difference. Through personal anecdotes, including a mishap with accidentally drinking Scotch, we emphasize the importance of vigilance and support in maintaining sobriety. By sharing our journeys and encouraging open discussions of personal challenges and observations, we aim to create a more human and understanding work environment that supports everyone.

Links from the session:
Recovery Friendly Workplace Institute
Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit
brettlovins.com

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) -  from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and how to addres...

Ever wondered how celebrating sobriety birthdays can transform a recovery journey? Join us as we mark 11 years of sobriety, sharing heartfelt reflections and personal milestones. From the unwavering support of my first sponsor, Todd Edwards, to the compassionate guidance of Steve Dunn, you'll hear stories that underscore the power of community and resilience. Listen in as we discuss the traditions that have kept me grounded and the broader life lessons learned along the way.

Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey, and this episode shines a light on the diverse paths to overcoming Substance Use Disorder (SUD). We compare the statistics of recovery in the U.S. with the membership of AA, revealing a landscape rich with individualized approaches. Drawing inspiration from Brené Brown's insights on vulnerability, we challenge the shame and stigma often associated SUD.

Language matters, especially in the context of addiction and recovery. This episode unpacks why terms like "substance use disorder" are preferred and how words can shape perceptions and impact lives. Through personal anecdotes, we illustrate the evolving societal awareness around mental health and substance use. Additionally, we invite you to explore the history of the recovery movement by watching the documentary film: "The Anonymous People".

Some of the topics from this conversation, with links:
The class I'm taking: Certified Facilitator in Addiction Awareness for HR & Managers
My new personal website: brettlovins.com
Information and help: SAMSHA

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) -  from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and how to addres...

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and addiction is a family disease. It doesn't just affect the person with the condition, it affects everyone around them. My nephew Dakota was 15 when I got sober. He shares his thoughts on my disease and our family dynamics around it since I got sober 10 years ago.

If you or a loved one are curious (which is key), consider checking out the links below:
Shatterproof.org
SAMHSA

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) -  from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and how to addres...

I've been a fan and student of Michael Palmisano for about a year. He's a wonderful guitar teacher for all levels and has an amazing online portal for guitar education called Guitargate.com of which I am a member. Additionally, he's got a wonderful YouTube channel to check out whether you are a guitar player or not. Links below.

A few months ago, Michael shared a heartfelt video about some challenges in his life. Near the end of the video, he talked about the need to stop drinking. The video (link below) garnered 133k views and over 1k comments. Of course, I queued right into this and sent him an email to offer some helpful links and an invite to interview on my podcast. He took me up on it.

Here's the YouTube video where Michael shares that he stopped drinking: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNkxxPv93f4

Here's his full YouTube channel, full of music and music appreciation:
https://www.youtube.com/@Guitargate

And a link to Guitargate, his online guitar education portal:
https://www.guitargate.com/

If you or a loved one want more information about Substance Use Disorder, including Alcohol Use Disorder and Opioid Use Disorder (up to and including addiction), visit Shatterproof.org or SAMHSA.

And for professional musicians, consider checking out MusiCares.

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) -  from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and how to addres...

In this podcast, meet family medicine doctor, Dr. Gillian Zuckerman who treats addiction in Yakima, WA... the town where I grew up. We talk about harm reduction, addiction misconceptions, the disease model and more. Really grateful for this conversation.

From our chat, here is the Never Use Alone Hotline information: https://neverusealone.com/

Here's a link to the Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit, released by the White House in Nov 2023: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/RRW-hub/Toolkit

If you or a loved one want more information about Substance Use Disorder, including Alcohol Use Disorder and Opioid Use Disorder, visit Shatterproof.org or SAMHSA.

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) -  from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and how to addres...

In this episode, I talk to Janet Hadley about The Alcohol Safe Workplace®. This is a program that she built from the ground up. What is it (from her website)? "An Alcohol Safe Workplace® has a culture that includes everybody, whether they are a drinker or not. People who work in an Alcohol Safe Workplace® feel safe to ask for help if they need it, and receive appropriate support.”

The program is multifaceted and includes an accreditation for companies who participate and meet the 12 standards set out by an independent panel of experts.

For more information on Janet Hadley and the work she does, visit her LinkedIn page:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-hadley/

And here's a direct link to her Alcohol Safe Workplace® program: https://alcoholsafeworkplace.co.uk/asw

Here's a link to the Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit, released by the White House which we talked about it in our conversation: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/RRW-hub/Toolkit

If you or a loved one want more information about Substance Use Disorder, including Alcohol Use Disorder, visit Shatterproof.org or SAMHSA.

Other useful links from Brett:

• Sober Curious Consulting - Brett's Recovery Friendly Workplace consulting business.
• How Recovery Friendly is Your Workplace Quiz - 3-min quiz where you learn a lot.
• Brett's YouTube channel
• Washington Recovery Alliance - building the capacity of the recovery community to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness by catalyzing public understanding and shaping public policy in Washington State.
• Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit - providing information, tools, and resources to help employers from all sectors—government, for-profit, non-profit, and not-for-profit—effectively prevent and respond to substance misuse in the workforce from the Department of Labor.
• Data on SUD in the US (2024) - from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Link to my favorite PDF for statistics.
• Understand Substance Use Disorders and Stigma (1 hour video) - learn about the brain science behind substance use disorders and ...