Addiction is not a new problem in the workplace. In fact, about 70% of folks that are using illicit drugs are employed in the workplace, either full-time or part-time. However, this is not a comfortable topic for people to talk about obviously due to the stigma around it. 
 
How do we then bridge that gap and break the silence so people get the help they need, and for total recovery to take place?
 
On today's episode, Duane speaks with Cheryl Brown-Merriwether, HR professional and recovery support professional, about the innovations in the workplace as well as addiction and recovery from a workplace perspective and a human relations perspective. 
 
Cheryl holds a number of certifications with several years of experience working with clinical professionals in addiction and recovery support services. Through educational programs, Cheryl is committed to helping people in the workplace understand addiction, substance use disorder, and recovery. Cheryl hopes to reduce the stigma and change the whole perspective around addiction and recovery in the workplace. 
 
In this episode, you will hear:

What’s changing in the workplace

How to break the stigma of recovery

The benefits of external partnership

Working with people who struggled with addiction

The importance of connecting at all three levels of the workplace

How to extend the workforce and empower the frontliners

About the International Center of Addiction and Recovery Education

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Supporting Resources:
NovusMindfulLife.com
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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202: Breaking the Stigma Around Addiction and Recovery in the Workplace with Cheryl Brown-Merriwether

"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it.
We're here to do more than just talk about addiction. 
We want to show you how to heal and recover.
Our talks with experts and people who have beaten addiction give you important insights into how addiction affects the mind and how recovery can happen in many ways. Whether we're looking at new treatment ideas or sharing stories that inspire, "The Addicted Mind Podcast" is all about understanding the complex world of addiction recovery and showing that recovery is possible.
If you or someone you care about is dealing with the challenges of addiction, let "The Addicted Mind Podcast" be your friend and guide. We aim to give you the knowledge you need, share stories that inspire you, and show you that the journey to recovery is worth it.
Subscribe now to be part of a community focused on learning, healing, and changing for the better. Your journey to a healthier mind and life begins right here.

Medicine

Science & Medicine

Health & Fitness

Mental Health

In this episode of “The Addictive Mind Plus,” hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive into the transformative power of the Three Circle Plan, a vital tool for those battling both substance and behavioral addictions. They discuss the importance of defining sobriety, identifying risky behaviors, and incorporating positive activities into daily life. By creating a clear and personalized plan, listeners can navigate their recovery journey with greater clarity and confidence. The episode also highlights the launch of a new course designed to help individuals create their own Three Circle Plan, providing step-by-step guidance and support.

Get the Course -> Circles of Sobriety: Mastering Your Recovery With the Complete Circle Plan
Key Topics

Understanding the Three Circle Plan for Addiction Recovery

Defining sobriety with the inner circle (red zone)

Recognizing warning signs in the middle circle (yellow zone)

Incorporating positive behaviors in the outer circle (green zone)

Adding a relational component with the fourth circle (blue zone)


Timestamp

[00:01:00] Introduction to the Three Circle Plan

[00:03:00] Defining sobriety with the inner circle

[00:07:26] Recognizing warning signs with the middle circle

[00:10:04] Incorporating positive behaviors with the outer circle

[00:13:58] Importance of writing down your plan

[00:15:08] Introducing the fourth circle for relational impact

[00:16:46] Details about the new course on creating a circle plan


Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center
NovusMindfulLife.com
We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind
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TAM+ EP 19: From Chaos to Clarity: Creating Your Circle Plan for Lasting Sobriety

How does one confront the silent battles of sex addiction within the LGBTQ community? Brandon Simpson, an associate marriage and family therapist from Novus Mindful Life Institute, joins this conversation to unravel this complex issue, sharing not just professional insights but personal experiences as a gay man. Together, Duane and Brandon shed light on the intersection of intimacy and identity, especially the uphill struggle against a heteronormative bias in therapy that too often overlooks the nuances in gay relationships. Get a glimpse of the shadows where shame and sexuality intertwine, offering a beacon of understanding for those navigating these often-misunderstood waters. 
The weight of homophobia on the shoulders of gay men can be crushing, driving many towards sex as a coping mechanism and, potentially, into the throes of addiction. This candid discussion with Brandon uncovers the layers of this reality, diving into the internalized homophobia and the consequent shame that propels an individual into the depths of secrecy. They also tackle the daunting world of dating apps like Grindr, dissecting their role in the complex search for meaningful connections amidst a culture saturated with sexual expectations – a conversation that's as revealing as it is necessary for anyone yearning to grasp the full picture.
This episode is not just an examination of the challenges faced by the gay community, but it also celebrates the courage it takes to set boundaries and the transformation that comes with self-discovery. By sharing stories of resilience and change, this episode underscores the importance of supportive networks and the quest for alignment with personal values. It's a conversation that doesn't just affirm the experiences of individuals within the LGBTQ spectrum but also champions the journey towards a more authentic and fulfilling life. Join today’s discussion to affirm the beauty of personal truth – in a world still learning to embrace the full spectrum of human connection.

In this episode, you will hear:

Challenging heteronormative standards in sex ed

Internalized homophobia in the LGBTQ community

Navigating stereotypes in gay therapy

Navigating pressure in LGBTQ community

Navigating friend group boundaries


Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
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283: Embracing Personal Truths Amidst the Struggles of LGBTQ Sex Addiction with Brandon Simpson

In this engaging episode of "The Addictive Mind Plus," hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind explore the transformative concept of meaning-making. Following up on their previous discussion about values, this episode dives deeper into how understanding and aligning with our deepest values can energize our life's journey. The hosts discuss practical strategies from dialectical behavior therapy and insights from Thomas Marra to illustrate how individuals can reshape their lives around what truly matters. Whether you're battling addictions, anxiety, or just seeking deeper fulfillment, this episode offers valuable insights into overcoming life's psychological hurdles through intentional living.

Download: THE CREATING MEANING MAKING WORKSHEET
Key Topics

Integration of Values and Meaning: How values serve as a compass and meaning provides the momentum.

Role of Meaning in Mental Health: Exploring its impact on recovery, anxiety, and depression.

Strategies for Meaning Making: Practical approaches to integrate meaningful actions into daily life.

Challenges to Meaning Making: Common obstacles like fear and disapproval, and how to navigate them.

Empowerment through Meaning: Using meaning making to lead a more intentional and satisfying life.


Timestamps

[00:01:00] Introduction to Meaning Making

[00:02:00] How Meaning and Values Interact

[00:05:00] Meaning in Relation to Mental Health (Addiction and Depression)

[00:08:00] Practical Strategies for Applying Meaning

[00:10:00] Discussing Supreme Concerns and Everyday Integration

[00:13:00] Overcoming Obstacles in Meaning Making

[00:15:00] Conclusion and Resources


Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center
NovusMindfulLife.com
We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind
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TAM+ EP 18 From Values to Action: Unlocking Meaning in Every Moment

Struggles with alcohol and depression are narratives many may find familiar, but not everyone's story is a journey through the eye of the storm to a place of hope and healing. USMC veteran Jesse Carrajat, our esteemed guest, brings to light his transformation from a high-flying corporate executive to a beacon of wellness through his ventures, Altum Fitness and the Live Deep podcast. His candid conversation unveils the hidden battles against addiction and mental health challenges that he, like many, has faced, and the pivotal moments of clarity that steered him towards sobriety and a profound dedication to helping others. 
Amidst the sweat and tears of rebuilding a life marred by trauma, Jesse's tale is one of reclamation, of a spirit once dulled by the weight of responsibility and the grip of substance dependency. He shares the intricacies of navigating life's roles – be it as a husband, father, or business leader – while locked in a duel with personal demons. His commitment to turning the tide, leaving behind a lucrative career to foster a community-focused approach to recovery, resonates as a testament to the power of faith and the unwavering resolve to pursue well-being.
As we unpack the science behind Jesse's fitness protocols and his philosophy on life, we reveal the transformative power of combining physical health with emotional support. Hear how Jesse's passion for fitness and his commitment to building a strong, supportive community are key to his recovery strategy, offering a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of addiction and mental health challenges.
In this episode, you will hear:

Jesse's journey from serving in the Marine Corps to becoming a fitness mentor

Struggle with addiction and how he found sobriety

The role of fitness in his life transformation and recovery process

A unique approach to wellness, combining military experience with fitness knowledge

Applying lessons and discipline learned from the Marine Corps to personal life

Redefining life and wellness through the lens of sobriety and fitness

Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
www.altumfitness.com
NovusMindfulLife.com
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

282: Jesse Carrajat's Path to Wellness: From Marine to Fitness Mentor

Join hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind in this enlightening episode of "The Addicted Mind Plus," where they explore the vital role of values in achieving a harmonious and fulfilling life. Understanding and defining your values is likened to setting a rudder on your life's boat, guiding you through the storms of stress, guilt, and dissatisfaction that come from living out of alignment with your true self. The conversation dives deep into how values serve as a North Star, aiding those in recovery or anyone seeking stability to make intentional, value-driven choices rather than reactive ones. This episode is essential for anyone feeling stuck or purposeless, offering practical advice on defining and realigning with what's truly important.

Download the worksheet: Building a Life & Recovery Guided by Your Values Worksheet

Key Topics
- The importance of knowing and aligning with your personal values
- How values act as a guiding light in life, preventing feelings of meaninglessness
- The dynamic nature of values and the need to reassess them over time
- Common pitfalls when values are unclear or unexamined
- Practical steps for identifying and living according to your values

Key Moments
- [00:01:00] Introduction to the importance of values in life
- [00:02:00] Discussion on how misaligned values can lead to life dissatisfaction
- [00:04:00] The benefits of living a value-driven life in recovery
- [00:06:00] How emotional reactions can derail us from our value system
- [00:09:00] Strategies for defining and aligning with personal values
- [00:11:00] The impact of values on decision-making in various life areas
- [00:14:00] Conclusion and resources for further exploration of values

Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center
NovusMindfulLife.com
We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind
Disclaimer
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202: Breaking the Stigma Around Addiction and Recovery in the Workplace with Cheryl Brown-Merriwether

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