Clean and Sober Radio

n this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund examined the dangers of kratom, a substance derived from the leaves of a tropical tree and sold in various forms at convenience stores, smoke shops, and other retail outlets across the United States. They discussed concerns about its accessibility, potential for dependence, and serious health risks, including reports of fatal outcomes associated with its use. The conversation also turned to Quaaludes, the drug associated with the 1960s and 1970s, and its reemergence in discussions about substance use. Gary and Mark explored the risks of underestimating substances that may be marketed as legal or readily available, emphasizing the importance of education, awareness, and informed choices in protecting ourselves and those we care about from the dangers of addiction.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund took a wide-ranging look at addiction and recovery, discussing current news, sharing personal experiences from their own recovery journeys, and reminding listeners that there is more than one path to sobriety. Gary and Mark also responded to questions submitted by listeners, including an important discussion about recognizing when a family member’s drinking may have become a cause for concern. Throughout the conversation, they emphasized that recovery is possible and that there is no single formula for getting sober. Whether someone is just beginning to recognize a problem, struggling to find a path forward, or already living in recovery, help is available, change is possible, and a fulfilling life beyond addiction can become a reality.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Steve Forzato, Director of the Center for Addiction and Recovery Services at Saint Joseph’s University, for an important conversation about the connection between addiction and human trafficking. Drawing on his four decades of experience in law enforcement and his expertise in addiction and recovery, Steve discussed the devastating realities he has witnessed throughout his career and how substance use can intersect with human and sex trafficking. He also shared his work addressing trafficking-related issues in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, and discussed the importance of education, awareness, prevention, and support for those affected by addiction and exploitation.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele to the studio for an informative conversation about addiction and the criminal justice system. DA Steele discussed how his office handles criminal cases involving addiction, the importance of recognizing substance use disorder and connecting people with treatment and second-chance opportunities, and the need for strong enforcement against those who trafficked dangerous drugs and contributed to overdose deaths. The conversation offered an inside look at the difficult balance between compassion for those struggling with addiction and accountability for those who profit from the illegal drug trade.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Philadelphia City Councilmember-at-Large Jimmy Harrity to the studio. A person in long-term recovery himself, Harrity discussed his role on City Council and his advocacy for people still struggling with addiction, as well as his support for those living in recovery. The conversation explored the importance of having people in positions of influence who understand addiction firsthand and are committed to helping those in need. Harrity also discussed his support for Philadelphia’s Wellness Expo, held at Philadelphia City Hall in recognition of Recovery Month, and the importance of bringing recovery resources, education, and community support together.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Philadelphia native Max Ariel, who had been in recovery for more than 20 years and works as a substance abuse counselor in Puerto Rico. Max shared his personal recovery journey and offered insight into the differences in attitudes, cultural perspectives, and approaches to addiction and treatment in Puerto Rico compared with those in the United States. The conversation provided an informative look at how culture can influence the way addiction is understood, addressed, and treated, while emphasizing the universal challenges and possibilities of recovery.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed siblings Jamila Winder, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania Chair of the Board of Commissioners, and her brother Randy Winder, who is several years into recovery and works at the University of Pennsylvania. Gary and Mark explored the complex relationship between family, addiction, and recovery as Jamila and Randy shared their perspectives on what it was like to have addiction affect their family. The discussion examined the reality that addiction can affect people from loving, supportive, and successful families, regardless of the opportunities or advantages they had been given. This episode offers a candid look at addiction from both sides of the sibling relationship and the challenges, emotions, and lessons that families experienced when one of their own struggled with substance use.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund explored an honest and often difficult question: Why did you seek sobriety? They discussed the different circumstances that can lead someone into recovery, whether it was a family member delivering an ultimatum, an employer demanding treatment, a court-ordered program, or simply reaching a point where the consequences and chaos of addiction had become too much to bear. Gary and Mark examined the motivations behind seeking recovery and considered whether lasting sobriety ultimately began when a person truly wanted a better life for themselves. The conversation encouraged listeners to reflect on their own journey and the moment when they decided they had had enough and were ready to change.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Steve Leckerman and Denise Leckerman, who shared their inspiring story of recovery, resilience, and hope in the face of unimaginable loss. The couple reflected on the tragic death of their daughter, Leigh, who was killed by a drunk driver more than two decades ago, and how they found the strength to continue their own recovery while honoring her memory. They discussed the creation of the Leigh Leckerman Foundation, which is dedicated to educating the public about addiction and raising funds to help individuals and families affected by substance use disorder. Their heartfelt conversation demonstrated how profound grief can be transformed into a lifelong mission of service, healing, and hope for others.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund examined how addiction and recovery are portrayed in the news media and across social media. The discussion explored the highs and lows, challenges and triumphs, and often complicated realities experienced by people in active addiction and those in recovery. Gary and Mark considered how media coverage could shape public understanding of addiction, while emphasizing the importance of presenting accurate information and recognizing the human stories behind the disease. The episode highlighted the need for greater public awareness, compassion, and understanding of the facts surrounding addiction and recovery.