AllBetter

Imagine being drawn into the world of labor, addiction, and recovery through the eyes of Brian Eddis, a political ward leader in Northeast Philadelphia. With an intriguing background that spans construction work, politics, and union organizing, Brian opens up about his personal journey and the challenges faced by the labor movement. We delve deep into the complexities of addiction, the implications of unemployment, and the vital role of unions in upholding the dignity of the workforce amidst shifting economic landscapes.

We navigate through the profound impact of emerging technologies on labor, and the rising tide of unemployment. As we unpack the harsh realities of interest rates, inflation, and student debt, Brian offers an insightful perspective on how these factors are redefining the middle-class life. We also grapple with the grim relationship between unemployment, addiction, and the loss of dignity that often accompanies labor.

In a compelling narrative, Brian takes us from the construction site to the political arena, highlighting the transformative power of hard work, dedication, and loyalty. We explore the rapidly changing face of labor, and the urgent need for innovative strategies for unions to stay relevant. Wrapping up, we shed light on Brian’s inspiring recovery journey, the importance of mentorship, and the changing attitudes towards substance abuse in the workplace. This episode is a riveting exploration of the labor movement, the process of recovery, and the complex ties that bind them.

So, are you ready to challenge your perceptions, broaden your understanding, and ignite your curiosity? Join us on this enlightening journey as we dissect the world of labor, addiction, and recovery with Brian Eddis.

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📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

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Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

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What if your understanding of spirituality and recovery could be drastically transformed? Join us as we delve deep with our guest, Jordan Harris, a primary counselor at Fellowship House, who shares his enlightening journey of personal transformation. Jordan, raised in a conservative Protestant family, takes us through his journey from addiction to recovery and the crucial role spirituality played in it. 

The conversation explores the profound impact of religious trauma and theological beliefs on an individual's mental health. How did Jordan's evangelical conservative upbringing contribute to his idea of the "self"? How did he find solace in Buddhism and Eastern thought? We hear about Jordan's experiences with self-hatred, fear, and discontentment, and the role of isolation, religion and pharmaceutical pain medications in his addiction. We also delve into how his spiritual awakening helped him overcome the emotional and physical pain of alienation and addiction.

Our chat with Jordan is not just about his personal recovery but also about the potential of non-egoic spirituality in aiding recovery for others. Jordan shares his experiences with practices such as non-attachment, mindfulness, and meditation, emphasizing the importance of finding an approach that resonates personally. We explore the liberating concept of anata no self, a Zen Buddhist teaching that emphasizes the oneness underlying our individual perception. Tune in for an insightful discussion that promises to challenge your perceptions and potentially change your life.

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📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

allbetter.fm
Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Join us on a remarkable journey with Lia, as she courageously shares her battles with addiction and her transformative transition journey. We traverse the landscapes of Lia's life, exploring the interplay of identity, sexuality, and the struggle to stay sober. Lia's candid account paints a vivid picture of her life in Scranton, built on the foundation of recovery, and how an initial reluctance to change led to a life-altering transformation.

We journey through Lia's childhood, uncovering her rejection of religion, shaped by her parents' divorce and her mother's involvement in the People Power Revolution, also known as the EDSA Revolution, her father's professional success, and tales of her grandfather's accomplishments ignited the go-getter within her. From here, we take a cerebral detour into the realm of mathematics, considering how its concepts can help us comprehend the universe and reality, interweaving Eric Weinstein's dismay with the stagnation of physics in quantum theory.

Lia's struggle with sobriety, her efforts to make friends in recovery, and the challenges faced in an all-male facility provide an enlightening perspective on addiction and recovery. Judgment due to her gender identity, her desire for a female sponsor, and the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics (not without risk) in understanding the self all form crucial elements of her narrative. This conversation with Lia is a deep dive into the realities of identity, addiction, and recovery, offering inspiration and hope for listeners on similar journeys.

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📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

allbetter.fm
Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Imagine uprooting your life, battling with the demons of addiction, and then going on to build a thriving business. This is exactly what my friend Evan Glass did, and he shares his inspiring journey with us. Evan candidly recounts his youth in Pleasantville, NY, his struggles with substance abuse, and his ultimate commitment to sobriety that led him to Northeastern Pennsylvania. His story is a stark reminder that addiction doesn't discriminate, but the power to overcome is within us all.

Substance abuse doesn't just impact your health; it redefines your identity and personal relationships. Evan opens up about his experiences with marijuana and alcohol, the culture surrounding these substances, and the paranoia that can come with their use. He also shares his dark moments, like his solo detox in a New Mexico hotel room. Yet, it's not all gloomy. Evan's story is also one of resilience, as he discusses how he managed to rebuild his life and business in a new environment, thanks to his determination and courage.

But Evan's recovery journey didn't end with sobriety. He found solace and perspective in a hobby - fishing. He shares how reconnecting with nature and prioritizing self-care became instrumental in his recovery. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of community in recovery. His extended 12-step family and the local fishing club provided unwavering support, demonstrating the transformative power of shared experiences. Tune in for an episode that's as sobering as it is inspiring, with lessons for all of us, regardless of our struggles.

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📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

allbetter.fm
Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Stop by our Apple Podcast and drop a Review!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/allbetter/id1592297425?see-all=reviews


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Buckle up for a transformative journey into the world of trauma-informed education with Nathan Barrett, the Superintendent of Hanover Area School District. Growing up in the tough neighborhood of Bellevue, Scranton, Nathan and I share more than just a childhood community - we share a commitment to supporting students dealing with trauma. Diving deep into the nuts and bolts of his community-centered approach, Nathan talks about his hands-on strategy that prioritizes visibility and availability, and his successful partnerships that are paving the way for college and career readiness for his students.

Ever wondered how empathy and leadership can turn a struggling school around? Nathan opens up about his passion for making a difference in children's lives, and how his relationship with teachers, parents, and empathy helped turn the academic performance of his school from worst to first. He also shares the innovative ways he shows appreciation to his staff - a day of equestrian therapy anyone? - and delves into the school's pioneering trauma-informed care training that helps identify and address trauma before it morphs into addiction.

The final leg of our journey explores the urgent need for mental health funding in schools and how it can potentially change the status quo. We unpack the mental health crisis in Pennsylvania schools, the $500 million mental health services budget, and the repercussions of the lack of mental health facilities in the state. And, if you've ever wondered how data can personalize care for students with mental health issues, we've got you covered. Listen in as we navigate these critical issues, and shed light on the role of empathy in creating inclusive and trauma-informed environments in schools. Be prepared for a compelling conversation about the future of education.

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📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

allbetter.fm
Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Stop by our Apple Podcast and drop a Review!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/allbetter/id1592297425?see-all=reviews


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What happens when a musical business owner wins the lottery twice, wades through the throes of addiction, and then finds his way back to sobriety? How does one navigate the intricate relationship between early patterns of insecurity, substance use, and gambling addiction? Join us as we unravel the extraordinary journey of Zach Cole, who now works in the field of SUD. Witness the power of resilience in the face of adversity and the strength of the human spirit through his vivid narrative.

In a captivating conversation with Zach, we discuss his early exposure to jazz music and how it laid the groundwork for his music career. As we peel back the layers of his life, we delve into his deep-seated insecurities, how they led to substance use, and his subsequent struggle with addiction. The narrative takes a tense turn when a handgun incident propels Zach onto the path to recovery and rehabilitation. 

As we traverse through Zach's recovery process, we explore his astounding lottery wins, the descent into a gambling addiction, and his bold decision to ban himself from all forms of gambling in Pennsylvania. We round off our engaging dialogue by reflecting on Zach's resilience, hope, and gratitude for his journey thus far. Tune in for this discerning exploration of addiction, recovery, and the indomitable human spirit. Don’t miss out on this remarkable testament of survival and triumph.

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📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

allbetter.fm
Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Stop by our Apple Podcast and drop a Review!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/allbetter/id1592297425?see-all=reviews


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Ever wondered how one navigates the tumultuous sea of addiction recovery? Join us in an enlightening conversation with Stephanie Fox, the Marketing Director at Mountains Edge Recovery. Get the inside scoop on the partial hospitalization program, the significance of self-care in this field, and how insurance can aid in prolonged recovery periods. 

Many of us know someone touched by addiction or are grappling with it ourselves. She shares her personal journey from dependency to sobriety, the highs and lows, the healing and the hurt. Stephanie can recount her transition from a treatment program to working in alumni support and community events. Listen as Stephanie and I dissect her move from Jersey City to Scranton at age 12, the tumult of growing up in an alcohol-addicted family, and how she used drugs and alcohol as a crutch.

You'll gain valuable insights on the importance of self-care in recovery. We stress setting boundaries, connecting with healthy, like-minded individuals, and engaging in self-nurturing activities to facilitate personal growth and prevent burnout. Hear her experiences and insights on overcoming addiction, embodying self-care, and rebuilding a life through recovery. This episode is a beacon of hope for anyone impacted by addiction; join us as we share our journey from darkness to light.

Give us a Review!

📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

allbetter.fm
Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Stop by our Apple Podcast and drop a Review!

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Our guest for this episode is Ryan Barba, a former professional golfer whose journey to recovery from addiction is nothing short of extraordinary. Ryan takes us down memory lane with tales from his childhood in North Carolina and Pennsylvania, as well as his passion for golf and skateboarding. He unflinchingly delves into his personal struggles with addiction, guilt, and shame. He also shares his future plans, which include a sobriety-focused podcast and his hope to interview his friend Brendan Novak. 

Opening up the conversation, we navigate the complex societal issues like gun violence, racism, and the often distorted influence of the media. We also explore the psychological toll of isolation, societal values' evolution over the past decade, and the importance of truly being present during social interactions. This segment is a deep dive into the contemporary societal landscape and the mental health challenges it poses.

Finally, Ryan talks about his experiences in recovery and how theatre helped him heal. His remarkable transformation story underscores the importance of recovery houses and the unique programs they offer to support sobriety. A big shoutout to our producer, John Edwards, whose input helped shape this episode into a testament of personal recovery, gratitude, and the promising possibility of a second chance at life. Tune in, like, and subscribe to our podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Give us a Review!

📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

allbetter.fm
Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

1-(888)-HELP-120
📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Join us as we journey into the extraordinary life of Duncan Maxwell. Hailing from the Netherlands, Duncan's path, which led him all the way to Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of recovery. We peel back the layers of his past, traversing the cobblestone streets of Amsterdam, the Dutch countryside, the pulsating energy of the EMDR and techno club scenes, and even the intricate nuances of European sex clubs.

Duncan doesn't hold back as he delves into the heart of his tumultuous upbringing, his interactions with trauma, and his search for cultural identity. He provides an unfiltered look at the challenges he faced growing up in Amsterdam, away from his mother, and the impact of living in a collectivist society on his generational attachment. His story of trauma and subsequent redemption is a potent reminder of the indomitable human spirit. 

The latter part of the episode is a deep dive into Duncan's substance use and his experiences in the Dutch club scene. Duncan's recount of attending the world's most exclusive techno club, Bergine, is a riveting tale that provides a glimpse into a world often shrouded in mystery. This episode culminates in Duncan's journey to recovery in Scranton, where he channeled his entrepreneurial spirit to launch a new business designing high-end purses. His story is a testament to how recovery can lead not only to personal healing but also a thriving entrepreneurial spirit. Duncan's transformation is a beacon of hope and an affirmation that it's never too late to rewrite your life story.

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📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

allbetter.fm
Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Stop by our Apple Podcast and drop a Review!

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Picture this: A world where AI can create immersive stories faster than any human can. That's the fascinating reality Jonathan Edwards, the award-winning cinematographer and founder of Diamond City Studios, invites us to contemplate in our captivating conversation. We journey together through his trailblazing exploits in the realm of video content creation where AI plays a growing role in crafting diverse narratives, albeit with minor hiccups. 

We're not just exploring the future, but also the past with Jonathan. His tales of overcoming ADD and life in the extreme confines of Freedom Village, USA, offer a poignant perspective on resilience. The empathy cultivated from these formative experiences shapes Jonathan's approach to his profession and his views on AI's potential impact on capitalism. He delves into the potential displacement of jobs by AI, signaling a significant shift that capitalism must adapt to. 

Finally, we turn our attention to the startling implications of AI and social media on our attention spans. Jonathan's personal experiences with ADHD and his early fascination with technology provide a unique lens through which to view this topic. Together, we navigate the digital landscape, discussing how AI can both exploit and enhance our ability to focus. In a world where attention equals currency, this conversation is a must-listen. Tune in to this riveting discussion that intersects technology, personal struggles, and society's most pressing concerns.

Give us a Review!

📢 **Announcement!** 📢. We want to introduce our new 24-hour, 7-days-a-week hotline for crisis or substance use treatment. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or are an alum in need of immediate assistance, our team is here for you around the clock. 📞 **Call 1-800-HELP-120 anytime, day or night.** #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery #ScrantonRecovery Fellowship House
As a treatment center, Fellowship House offers both residential and outpatient treatment services to

allbetter.fm
Discussions on addiction and recovery. We interview clinicians/researchers, legislators, and individ

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Stop by our Apple Podcast and drop a Review!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/allbetter/id1592297425?see-all=reviews


Support The Show
https://www.patreon.com/allbetter