Is alcoholism a disease you are born with or a behavior you choose? It is one of the most hotly debated questions in addiction science, and the answer has real consequences for how we treat, support, and hold accountable the millions of people struggling with alcohol dependency.

In this episode of Criminal Thinking Deterred, host Tony Moore sits down with returning guest Marty Roddy, a recovering alcoholic with over 26 years of sobriety, an AA leader, and a soon-to-be published author on alcoholism, to tackle this controversy head-on. Marty brings a rare perspective: a man who has lived the disease from the inside, studied the science, walked through the 12 Steps, and found his most powerful answer not in a laboratory or a treatment center, but in his faith in Jesus Christ.

Tony and Marty explore both sides of the debate, examining the genetic and neurological research that supports the disease model, the behavioral and personal responsibility arguments that challenge it, and what a Christian worldview brings to one of the most important conversations in addiction recovery today.

Whether you are personally in recovery, love someone who is struggling, work in addiction services, or are simply trying to make sense of a debate that affects millions of families, this episode will challenge your assumptions, deepen your understanding, and offer real hope.

Gerald "Geo" Gibson, founder of Operation Making A Change (OMAC), returns for an inspiring conversation about redemption, resilience, and purpose.

Gerald shares his difficult childhood, his search for identity in street life, and his finding of hope through faith, personal accountability, and a commitment to serving others. He opens up about the life-changing experiences that reshaped his future, including his time in prison, his spiritual awakening, and the calling that led him to establish OMAC.

Throughout the conversation, Gerald tells Tony how leading by example, empowering young people, and strengthening communities can help break cycles of violence, hopelessness, and criminal thinking. He also reflects on the importance of perseverance, surrender to God's purpose, and the use of music and motivational speaking to inspire lasting transformation.

Whether you're looking for encouragement, leadership insights, or proof that it's never too late to change your life, this episode offers a compelling message of hope and restoration.

Most people have shied away from the dark truths about addiction and criminal thinking until now. Marty Roddy, with over 26 years of sobriety and a lifetime of hands-on experience, exposes the disruptive power of pride, denial, and misguided beliefs that keep many stuck.

He shares how the core roles of humility, faith, and genuine self-inventory can truly transform your life and why skipping these steps can keep you in a cycle of relapse and regret.

Marty tells Tony how practical tools like daily inventory, honest prayer, and the importance of deep study of the 12 Steps bring humility and true change. Also, and most importantly, the vital role of a spiritual, Jesus-centered approach in breaking free from destructive thought patterns.

Why does this matter? Because without addressing the underlying thinking and spiritual aspects of addiction, many recover but never heal. The opportunity to move beyond mere sobriety into a life of integrity and purpose lies in learning how to develop a resilient mindset, rooted in faith, humility, and honest self-assessment.

Criminal thinking is often rooted in deeper emotional struggles that shape behavior over time. In this episode, we take a closer look at what drives criminal thinking and why it’s more complex than many people assume.

Drawing on over two decades of therapeutic experience, our host, Tony Moore, explores how unresolved anger, trauma, and emotional pain can influence decision-making. He gives us insight into the hidden patterns that lead individuals into destructive cycles, and why understanding those patterns is key to change.

Tony walks us through practical treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy and proven deterrent strategies that help individuals slow down, think clearly, and take responsibility for their actions. These tools are essential for breaking harmful habits and building healthier responses.

Whether you’re a therapist, student, or simply interested in human behavior, this episode offers a grounded, real-world perspective on criminal thinking and what it takes to overcome it. You can find excellent resources at his Criminal Thinking website.

Sol Mercado, Reentry Coordinator, Planting Justice, shares her remarkable journey from incarceration to becoming a voice for healing, restoration, and second chances. She has overcome trauma, rebuilt her identity, and discovered her purpose in the most unexpected places.

She tells Tony about the challenges of reentry, the emotional weight of past mistakes, and the ongoing work required to heal. Through her experience, she highlights how community support and intentional choices can change the trajectory of a life. Her message is clear: no one is defined by their worst moment.

A central part of Sol’s transformation came through gardening and time spent in nature. What began as a simple activity became a powerful tool for healing—offering peace, structure, and a renewed sense of purpose. This connection to nature, combined with spiritual growth, helped her rebuild not only her life but her outlook on the future.

Restoration is possible. Sol’s words challenge listeners to see beyond labels and believe in redemption: “We are more than our worst mistakes.” Her story calls each of us to extend grace, build stronger communities, and show others what a second chance truly looks like.

"I want someone to view me as this man." Jerry Dugan shares his story of struggle, accountability, and transformation. Jerry’s journey began with an aggravated battery charge that led to years inside the Department of Corrections, followed by a cycle of probation violations and addiction that kept him trapped in the system for decades.

He opens up about the realities of incarceration, the mental and emotional toll it took, and the difficult road to breaking free from destructive patterns. The support from family and friends, along with the right therapeutic guidance, became essential in helping him rebuild his life.

Now living a life marked by sobriety, stability, and purpose, Jerry reflects on the ongoing work of personal growth. From overcoming self-doubt to finding fulfillment in his career and family life, he offers honest insight into what it takes to sustain long-term change.

If you struggle with alcoholism, please hear Jerry's story of recovery and healing.

In this podcast episode of Criminal Thinking Deterred, Tony Moore sits down with Marty Roddy, a recovering alcoholic with more than 26 years of sobriety, to discuss the realities of addiction, recovery, and the long road to lasting change.

Marty shares his personal journey through alcohol addiction, including the environmental influences that shaped his drinking and the guilt and shame that followed. He explains how his faith in Christ became central to his recovery and why prayer remains essential to maintaining sobriety. Marty and Tony also discuss forgiveness and how unresolved shame can keep people trapped in destructive thinking patterns.

Marty tells our audience about the vital role of community support and accountability, saying that recovery is not a solitary experience. He reflects on the daily practice of gratitude, making amends, and the steps that helped him rebuild his life. He also explains the importance of being a member of Alcoholics Anonymous in Charlottesville, VA, and how any alcoholic can find a chapter open anytime and anywhere.

Marty and Tony offer encouragement and clarity for anyone struggling with alcohol addiction, as well as for those walking alongside someone in recovery. Marty’s story is a reminder that real transformation is possible when faith, honesty, and community come together.

If you or someone you know is seeking freedom from alcohol addiction, please visit the Alcoholics Anonymous website today and begin the road to sobriety.

In this episode of Criminal Thinking Deterred, Tony Moore sits down with Cavell Samuels, founder of Kingdom First, to explore the thinking patterns that keep people stuck in cycles of crime and addiction — and the mindset shifts that lead to real, lasting transformation.

Cavell Samuels, Kingdom First Consulting, LLC, discusses his background in criminal justice, the transformative power of faith, and the importance of community and accountability in overcoming destructive behaviors.

Cavell emphasizes the need for respect and understanding when working with individuals facing challenges, particularly in the context of addiction and recovery. He offers insights on navigating doubts and insecurities, recognizing the signs of destructive behavior, and the vital role of relationships in personal growth and healing.

He and Tony bring a message of hope and encouragement for the holiday season, reminding listeners that Jesus is the answer to life's challenges.

In this podcast episode of Criminal Thinking Deterred, host Tony Moore speaks with Mike Williams, the president of City on a Hill, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community transformation and recovery.

Tony and Mike discuss the mission of City on the Hill, which focuses on restoring hope and enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families. Mike shares his personal journey, the importance of love and acceptance in breaking cycles of shame, and the role of cognitive behavioral therapy in their programs. The conversation also highlights the significance of holistic healing, mentorship, and faith-based approaches in fostering community trust and support.

Tony's own Criminal Thinking work and the classic Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs are also used to assess the types of therapy and needs of the client. Tony and Mike tell of encouraging work being done now and the plans of the organization. You will be encouraged and educated!

Our guest, Clem Richardson, CEO of Manna Behavioral Services, shares his inspiring journey from addiction to becoming a respected leader and mentor in his Milwaukee community. Clem opens up about how his past experiences shaped his mission to serve others, showing how true transformation begins with a change in mindset, not just behavior.

Clem discusses the importance of reentry programs that focus on reshaping thought patterns and addressing the deep effects of trauma in addiction and recovery. His program, “Beyond the Block,” empowers individuals to rise above their circumstances, rebuild their lives, and embrace their full potential. Through practical support and compassionate guidance, Clem helps people find purpose and direction as they reintegrate into their communities.

Podcast listeners will also hear Clem’s insights on self-care, relationship-building, and the essential role of faith and mentorship in sustaining long-term change. His message reminds us that community engagement isn’t just about helping others; it’s about collective growth and healing.