Alchemist Recovery Podcast

On The Sober Shaman Podcast this week, we take a fresh look at the work the we perform within Lesson #4: Definitions: Medicine - Part 2.

We start with an online back-and-forth between myself and an MD about the basics: what medicine is and what medicine is not.

For me, medicine absolutely is something that encompasses approaches beyond what he proposed as outside agents, such as pills, and procedures, such as surgery. Specifically, this Lesson shows how awareness, experience, connection and practice are four examples of this - and how each directly applies to a particular aspect of the whole person.

Next, I provide two client cases of how the medicine of experience is applied in addiction treatment. I have a saying…

It takes a new experience to change an old belief

In these examples, we show how a conscious, connecting, new experience that is put into practice, is the exact medicine to transform the old, outdated limiting core beliefs that lie at the core of an addiction.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thesobershaman.com

Have you ever felt a deep sense of "not enough" or an "insatiable pull from somewhere inside" that you just couldn't quite name?

A feeling that something essential is missing, driving you to seek comfort or escape?

Introducing "The Void": Today, we're diving into a core concept from Alchemist Recovery's definition of addiction: "The Void." In plain English, "The Void" is that profound internal emptiness that addiction desperately tries to fill.

It's a central piece of the puzzle in understanding why addiction takes hold and what drives the "patterned use" we discussed in previous lessons.

Takeaways:

• The profound internal emptiness, referred to as the void, is a central concept in understanding addiction.
• This void is often expressed as an insatiable craving to be filled, stemming from trauma and loss.
• The metaphor of a meteor crashing into the earth illustrates how trauma impacts the soul, creating a deep emotional crater.
• Addiction arises as a misguided attempt to fill the void, driven by core beliefs of inadequacy and brokenness.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thesobershaman.com

The primary focus of this podcast episode is the exploration of identity in the context of recovery from addiction, particularly as we embark upon the new year of 2026.

We delve into the significance of defining key terms such as "alcoholic" and "addict," examining their implications both personally and within broader societal frameworks.

As we reflect on the cyclical nature of time and personal growth, we emphasize the importance of approaching recovery with a mindset that embraces ongoing introspection and transformation.

Through this lens, we encourage listeners to confront their beliefs and attachments to their identities, which may hinder their progress in recovery.

Ultimately, this episode serves as a foundational lesson that invites a deeper understanding of oneself, paving the way for a more meaningful journey toward sobriety.

Takeaways:

• The commencement of the year serves as a pivotal moment for introspection and self-improvement.
• In recovery, understanding the definitions of addiction and identity is paramount for personal growth.
• Holistic perspectives in recovery emphasize the cyclical nature of personal development and transformation.
• It is essential to differentiate between individual identity and addiction, recognizing the nuances involved.
• The exercise of defining oneself can either empower or disempower individuals in their recovery journey.
• Embracing the universality of addiction fosters connection and facilitates meaningful dialogues among individuals.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thesobershaman.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Dr. Dana Lee Lyons / Perfect Hunger

This week’s episode of The Sober Shaman Podcast dives into a big one — possession — and how it connects to the experience of addiction.

We explore how this is not the Hollywood version with demons and exorcisms… but rather the more insidious and self-perpetuated kind. The kind that happens when our own addictive thoughts, beliefs and feelings grab hold of the wheel and take over the driving. Looking back, we wonder exactly when it was we handed over the keys.

In this episode, we'll go into:

• What possession really means in shamanic and recovery terms
• How thought forms — energetic creations born from focused intention and strong emotions — can take on a life of their own
• Why addiction is predictable and cyclical, and what it means when we lose choice
• How to dissolve these patterns and begin feeding the helping & compassionate spirits of healing, gratitude, and recovery

It’s a subject that causes reflexive reactions and that's exactly why I'm diving in. This is a conversation about reclaiming power through awareness and by taking responsibility earlier in the process of manifestation.

We go into exactly where these parasites of possession begin their attachment to our thoughts, beliefs, and feelings, and explore how we can disentangle ourselves from them and their destructive outcomes.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thesobershaman.com
• [email protected]

A Call for Mastery and Men's Ability to Court

When we grow into adulthood without a guide that can lead us to mastery of a skill that enhances our community, speaks to our hearts, and promotes the healthiest aspects of our culture...

We feel the Void this leaves behind. Then, how do we respond to the pull of this Void?

In this episode of The Sober Shaman Podcast, we take a look at exactly what happens here, the damage that is caused as a result - and what we can do about it.

___________________

This is a big subject - and one that can be approached from many directions. So today, we enter into it from our current culture's relationship to beauty, courting, and the dance of Yin Yang and male female.

As always, please hit the Like & Subscribe buttons, and send me any comments or questions you have.

With blessings,

Randal

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Takeaways:

• The Sober Shaman Podcast delves into the intersection of spirituality and practical recovery methods for addiction.
• Understanding the societal and cultural roots of addiction can help illuminate personal struggles and pathways to healing.
• Mastery and the ability to create beauty are essential components that can fill the existential void in individuals, particularly men.
• The lack of guidance and mentorship in young men's lives contributes significantly to their feelings of emptiness and subsequent addiction issues.
• A clear transition from adolescence into adulthood, facilitated by mentorship, is crucial for developing skills necessary for mastery and personal fulfillment.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of expressing and appreciating beauty as a fundamental human experience essential for recovery and growth.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thesobershaman.com

Every victim does not become the perpetrator but…nearly every perpetrator has been the victim.

How does one go from being a victim, from being the recipient of horrendous pain, to then inflicting that same brand of pain upon another?

How does this happen?

In shamanism, it’s starts with Power Loss.

And in this episode of The Sober Shaman Podcast, we'll examine how and why this happens, what are the results, and then, what we can do about it to regain our power back and heal.

Here’s the breakdown:

The 3 kinds of shamanic illness

• Power Loss
• Soul Loss
• Spiritual Intrusion

TAHL: Trauma, Abuse, Heartbreak & Loss

Abuse that can cause Power Loss:

• Sexual
• Physical
• Verbal

How do we get it back?

• There’s a bad way…”The same way it was taken from me!”
• We’ll talk about this and why it doesn't work.

• And a good way…”Re-connection and a place to put my gift.”
• We’ll talk about this.

I love how shamanism can take important, powerful and deeply painful forms of illness, and create clear and simple-languaged ways of explaining the healing path ahead.

With blessings,

Randal

To learn more about this subject, check out Lesson #21 on The Alchemist Recovery Program: https://www.thesobershaman.com/p/lesson-21-a-shamanic-view-of-illness

As always, please subscribe to the podcast, the newsletter, and send me any questions you may have: https://www.thesobershaman.com/

Thanks for joining me once again for another episode of The Sober Shaman Podcast.

In this one, I address a few areas where we can get stuck. We find ourselves repeating patterns, feeling familiar resistances and experiencing the same ineffectual results.

These are aspects of The Story we tell ourselves, about ourselves, and whether consciously or subconsciously, are participating in for its ongoing perpetuation.

Yup. We all do it.

Here's how I've broken down this episode & the way we phrase it...

In each one of the above examples, we can go down deep caves of exploration and follow them into all kinds of revelatory passageways.

Give the episode a listen and then let me know...

• Does any one stand out for you?
• Are you stuck there now?
• Have you been stuck in the past and are now on the other side? If so, how'd you do it?

I'd love to know what you experienced!

Links referenced in this episode:

• thesobershaman.com

Takeaways:

• The Sober Shaman Podcast delves into the intertwining of spirituality and practical recovery from addiction and trauma.
• Hans Wilhelm, a prolific author and mystic, has created numerous resources to explain spiritual laws visually.
• The understanding of reincarnation and karma provides clarity on life's injustices and personal challenges we face.
• Forgiveness is essential for emotional freedom and healing, benefiting the person who forgives more than the one forgiven.

Website: www.LIFEexplained.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifeexplainedvideos

With Blessings

thesobershaman.com

This episode of The Sober Shaman Podcast is a conversation with Rand Timmerman.

Rand is a retired attorney who is a recovered alcoholic that hiked the Appalachian Trail at 72 years old with his younger brother (71) and then wrote a book with 500 pictures, called "A Spiritual Passage" describingl the difficulties and problems they encountered doing such an arduous hike while dealing with issues of grief, overcoming addiction and inspiring, spiritual growth even as we get older.

Takeaways:

• The Sober Shaman Podcast delves into the intersection of spirituality and practical recovery methods, emphasizing the therapeutic potential of nature.
• Rand Timmerman shares his profound experiences hiking the Appalachian Trail as a form of spiritual passage, marking his journey of recovery from alcoholism.
• The episode explores themes of grief, resilience, and the transformative power of physical challenges in the context of personal healing and recovery.
• Rand discusses the importance of faith and higher powers in overcoming addiction, as well as the personal challenges he faced throughout his journey.
• Listeners learn about the intricate relationship between nature and spirituality, as Rand reflects on how the beauty of the Appalachian Trail inspired profound spiritual revelations.
• The conversation highlights the significance of community and support in recovery, illustrating how shared experiences can lead to mutual healing and inspiration.

Links referenced in this episode:

• randtimmerman.com
• thesobershaman.com

This episode of the Sober Shaman Podcast presents a profound dialogue with Jennifer Pilates, an esteemed intuitive medium and spiritual thought leader.

Central to our discussion is the transformative journey that emerges from the intersection of spirituality and physical wellness, particularly through the lens of Pilates as a healing modality. With over 25 years of experience, Jennifer articulates how her personal encounter with a life-altering car accident catalyzed her awakening and subsequent dedication to helping others align their body, mind, and spirit.

Together, we delve into the nuanced relationship between physical ailments and energetic blockages, emphasizing the importance of holistic healing approaches that integrate emotional and spiritual dimensions. This enlightening conversation not only underscores the significance of empowerment in the recovery process but also invites listeners to reflect on their own paths toward healing and self-discovery.

Takeaways:

• The Sober Shaman Podcast delves into the intersection of spirituality and practical recovery methods for addiction and trauma.
• Jennifer Pilates, a highly esteemed intuitive medium, shares her transformative journey through hardships and healing practices.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of aligning body, mind, and spirit through practices such as Pilates and Reiki healing.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace their fears and trust their inner guidance as they navigate personal transformations and spiritual growth.

Links referenced in this episode:

• jenniferpilates.com
• thesobershaman.com