Clean and Sober Radio

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund explored a thought-provoking question: If you had to do your life over, what changes would you make - if any? They reflected on the people they once surrounded themselves with, the decisions made during the “crazy years,” and whether any part of their addictive past carried lessons or value. The conversation also took an honest look at the harm caused - not only to themselves, but to their families - and considered whether, given the chance to turn back time, they truly would, and to what point. It was a deep and introspective discussion about accountability, growth, and gratitude in recovery.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Nolen Burchett, who shared a gripping and honest account of his journey through addiction and recovery. Nolen reflected on how, in June 2013, a spiraling opioid addiction led him—despite being a previously law-abiding citizen—to rob three California banks in a single month. He spoke candidly about his arrest following a high-speed chase that ended with him being shot by deputies and ultimately serving more than five years in a California state prison. Now free and living in recovery, Nolen discussed his work at Touchstone Recovery Center and the powerful message of hope and redemption he now carries to others seeking sobriety.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Jackie Febus, who courageously shared her powerful journey from the streets of Camden, New Jersey, to a life of long-term sobriety. Jackie reflected on more than 15 years of active addiction, during which she was in and out of correctional facilities over 40 times, battling repeated relapses and homelessness. Now clean and sober for many years, her story stood as living proof that recovery is possible and that we can - and do - recover.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund took a candid and lighthearted look back at addiction by asking a provocative question: What was the dumbest thing you did while using? The discussion reflected on risky, illegal, and ill-thought-out behaviors that once seemed acceptable or consequence-free at the time. With honesty and humor, Gary and Mark reminisced about just how misguided those choices were, while underscoring the gratitude and perspective that come with recovery today.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed friend of the show, legendary guitarist Rick “Ricky” Byrd as their guest. Ricky reflected on an extraordinary career that included playing with artists such as Ringo Starr, Joe Walsh, Alice Cooper, The Beach Boys, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, and Dion, as well as serving as lead guitarist and vocalist with Joan Jett and the Blackhearts. He also shared his powerful journey of nearly 40 years in recovery, emphasizing a life dedicated to giving back to the recovery community. The conversation highlighted both his musical legacy and his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2015, along with his enduring commitment to sobriety and service.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Louis DeSanto from the Caron Foundation as their guest. Louis, who served as Director of Corporate Partnerships and Resource Director for the Philadelphia region, discussed the Caron Foundation’s nearly 70-year history of helping thousands of individuals and families affected by substance use disorder begin to manage this chronic and treatable disease. Through his personal insight and professional experience, Louis exemplified that recovery is possible, offering inspiration and hope by showing that we can and do recover from addiction and the behaviors and consequences that accompany it.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund took time to reflect on the year that is coming to a close. They discussed how they—and the recovery community as a whole—had lived their lives throughout the year, asking important questions about sobriety, behavior, accountability, and compassion toward others. The conversation focused on whether sobriety was not only maintained, but also practiced through actions and attitudes, encouraging honest self-examination. Gary and Mark emphasized that no one is perfect, but growth, awareness, and integrity remain essential parts of recovery.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Jefferson Berry to the show. Jefferson, a sober singer-songwriter and band leader, shared his journey from a wild life of drinking and drug use while working at radio stations in Philadelphia and San Francisco to long-term recovery. Sober since 1995, he spoke about how his recovery transformed his life and career, and how he had dedicated himself to giving back to the recovery community through his music, service, and ongoing commitment to sobriety.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler welcomed special guest Stephen Forzato. Steve brought insights drawn from three decades of wiretapping, undercover operations, and hundreds of interviews with individuals involved in the drug trade. His extensive experience has given him a rare, birds-eye view of America’s escalating drug epidemic and its deep connection to the devastating world of human trafficking. Recognized statewide in Pennsylvania for his expertise, Steve offered an informed and sobering look at the intersection of addiction and exploitation.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed rock-and-roll legend Simon Kirke, founder of two of the most influential bands in music history - FREE and Bad Company. Simon shared how a career that began in his youth and rose to global fame was eventually derailed by 15 years of addiction, five rehabs, and ultimately, his hard-won recovery. A rare opportunity to hear directly from a musical icon whose journey from worldwide success to sobriety is both powerful and deeply relatable.