From Darkness to Life Podcast: Stories of Recovery & Resilience

In this episode, Ryan engages in a conversation with Tanis Mitchell, a certified life coach and a resilient "medical mom." Tanis unfolds her compelling journey of becoming a mother to three children, particularly recounting the poignant moments surrounding her daughter Lukah's survival after a rare multiple organ transplant. Throughout the discussion, Tanis delves into the profound impact of her role as a medical mama on her perspective towards life. She shares insights into the transformative power of grief and acceptance, shedding light on how she assists other families in navigating the complexities of illness.

 Tanis opens up about the challenges she faced and how her experiences led her to discover hope amidst heartache. She emphasizes the significance of faith, community support, and self-care in finding solace during difficult times.

 To explore more about Tanis and her impactful work, visit hopeandstonescoaching.com and her Instagram page @tanismitchell.

In this episode, Ryan chats with Sonia Kahlon, the founder of Everblume, a revolutionary digital tool for alcohol recovery support for women. Sonia shares her inspirational journey, recounting how she became a recovery coach and established Everblume after selling her successful orthodontic practice. Navigating the complexities of sobriety took an added challenge for Sonia as she also faced the emotional upheaval of her husband leaving her during this period. Despite this hardship, Sonia persevered, delving into the discussion about Everblume's functionality, the advantages of online group recovery meetings, and her dedicated efforts to help women discover hope and healing through peer support. Learn more about Sonia's remarkable story and Everblume at EverBlume.

Connect with Everblume at joineverblume.com/ and on Instagram @joineverblume.

NOTE: This episode was recorded over zoom, and due to connectivity issues, there were some minor audio dropouts beyond our control. If you have questions or need clarification... please reach out.

Tune into this SPECIAL episode of the From Darkness to Life podcast as Ryan engages in a profound conversation with the esteemed Nancy Mannix, Chair and Patron of the Palix Foundation, and founder of the Alberta Family Wellness Initiative (AFWI). In this thought-provoking episode, Nancy takes a deep dive into AFWI's groundbreaking initiatives, particularly the Brain Story and Resilience Scale.

Nancy unfolds the intricacies of the Brain Story, offering a compelling exploration into the science behind brain development and its profound impact on mental well-being. She unravels the Resilience Scale, shedding light on the essential elements that contribute to building resilience in individuals and communities.

This episode serves as a precursor to the Resilience Day Masterclass, an event taking place in Medicine Hat on January 30, 2024. Join Nancy and her team as they delve deeper into the practical applications of the Brain Story and Resilience Scale, providing invaluable insights in working with individuals, organizations, and systems. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with the experts and explore the pathways to mental health and wellness.

For more details, visit [Alberta Family Wellness Initiative](https://www.albertafamilywellness.org/).

If you are interested in the Resilience Day Masterclass, email us today at [email protected].

Join Ryan on this transformative episode of From Darkness to Life as he sits down with Dr. Kent Comeau, the compassionate psychiatrist at Reconnect Mental Health in the heart of Medicine Hat, Alberta.

Explore the diverse range of services offered at Reconnect Mental Health, where Dr. Comeau, driven by his passion for mental wellness, discusses innovative treatments such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). This non-invasive, painless therapy utilizes magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions associated with mood regulation, offering hope and relief for conditions like depression and anxiety.

In addition to rTMS, delve into the integral role of process groups and shared-care at Reconnect Mental Health. Dr. Comeau sheds light on how these services foster a collaborative approach to mental health, providing individuals with a supportive community to navigate their unique journeys.

Listeners will be captivated by Dr. Comeau's insights into the transformative impact of these services. Whether you're seeking information on cutting-edge mental health treatments or inspired by tales of resilience, this episode promises to be a compelling journey from darkness to life.

Tune in and let Dr. Kent Comeau guide you through the corridors of mental wellness on this illuminating episode of From Darkness to Life.

Explore Reconnect Mental Health at https://reconnectmentalhealth.com/

Join Ryan on this compelling episode of "From Darkness to Life" as he sits down with former WHL hockey player turned inspirational figure, Mike Brown. In this deeply personal conversation, Mike opens up about the highs and lows of his hockey career, providing a rare glimpse into the challenges that led him down a path of addiction. From the adrenaline of the rink to the struggles off the ice, Mike shares his raw and authentic story.

Tune in to hear about the pivotal moment that became the turning point in Mike's life, prompting him to confront his addiction head-on. The episode delves into the courage it took for Mike to seek treatment, the hurdles he faced during recovery, and the unwavering support that played a crucial role in his journey. Mike reflects on the lessons learned, the resilience that fuels his thriving recovery, and the passion he has found in helping others navigate their own paths to redemption.

"Breaking the Ice" is not just a story of overcoming adversity; it's a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of choosing life. Join Ryan and Mike on this inspiring episode as they explore the journey from darkness to life, sharing moments of vulnerability, triumph, and the resilience that defines the human experience.

Check out Mike's podcast at: https://open.spotify.com/show/4pSfDn3m89KmGcB9CADmP2?si=263d7e927a284079

Welcome to another profound episode of "From Darkness to Life". This week, Ryan welcomes a remarkable guest, Shae, who fearlessly opens up about her transformative journey from the depths of addiction to the radiant light of recovery.

In this candid conversation, Shae shares the raw and unfiltered account of her lived experience, taking us through the harrowing and lonely places that addiction led her. From the unforgiving streets to the lonely riverbanks of Calgary, Alberta. Shae paints a vivid picture of the highs and lows that shaped her path.

Listen as Shae reveals the struggles she faced and the pivotal moments that pushed her to change the trajectory of her life. Her story is not just about survival; it's about resilience and the unwavering strength that emerged from the darkest corners of her existence.

Now, with over three years in recovery, Shae reflects on the gifts that this transformative journey has bestowed upon her. She speaks openly about the challenges, victories, and profound changes that recovery has brought to her life.

This episode is a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and the possibility of redemption. Join Ryan and Shae as they navigate through the shadows, bringing to light a story of triumph over adversity. It's a conversation that will inspire, uplift, and remind us all that even in the darkest moments, there is a path from darkness to life.

Welcome to another powerful episode of "From Darkness to Life" with your host, Ryan. This week, we have a special guest, Nicole, a seasoned professional with over 18 years of experience in the addiction space.

Ryan and Nicole delve into the profound impact of addiction on families. Nicole's deep understanding of the dynamics within the family unit has driven her to create a groundbreaking service called Family Matters Intervention.

In this episode, Nicole shares her insights into how addiction affects not only the individual struggling with it but the entire family as well. With her wealth of experience, she sheds light on the often-overlooked aspect of the collateral damage caused by addiction within the family structure.

Family Matters Intervention is more than just a service; it's a lifeline for families navigating the challenging journey from darkness to life. Nicole discusses how this innovative approach fills a crucial gap in addiction support by extending care and assistance beyond the individual, reaching out to heal and empower the entire family unit.

Tune in as Ryan and Nicole explore the importance of addressing addiction comprehensively, understanding its ripple effects, and offering a holistic solution through Family Matters Intervention. This episode promises to be both enlightening and inspiring, providing valuable insights into transforming lives and bringing families from darkness to life.

🎧 Listen now on our website: 

https://ourcollectivejourney.ca/podcast

or wherever you get your favourite podcasts! 

Find Nicole and her service at:

https://www.familymattersinterventions.com/

Instagram and Facebook @familymattersinterventions

Welcome to “From Darkness to Life” with your host, Ryan. In this special episode, Ryan is joined by some of the OCJ staff, including Amber, Tara, and Alana, to guide you through the holiday season.

The holiday season can be a challenging time for many, especially those on a journey of recovery. In this episode, our hosts share tips and suggestions to help you navigate through the stress and maintain your well-being.

Whether you’re seeking ways to safeguard your recovery or simply looking for effective strategies to ease the strain of the season, this episode is tailor-made for you. Ryan, Amber, Tara, and Alana draw from their own experiences and expertise to create a safe space where you can find solace, support, and practical advice.

Tune in as they delve into topics ranging from setting healthy boundaries and self-care practices to creating a supportive network during the holidays. This podcast is a gentle reminder that, even in the midst of chaos, there are ways to find light, joy, and peace.

Join us in this candid conversation as “From Darkness to Life” continues to offer guidance and encouragement to all those navigating the journey from darkness to life.

Happy Holidays from OCJ and FDTL! Thank you to all the listeners for your continued support, see you in 2024!

Subscribe now and embark on this uplifting journey with Ryan and the OCJ staff. Visit ourcollectivejourney.ca to connect today.

In this episode, Ryan welcomes two guests who have personal experience with the Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre (AARC), a non-profit organization that provides long-term treatment for substance abuse and addiction in adolescents and their families. Sid is a former client of AARC who shares their recovery journey, from hitting rock bottom to finding hope and healing. Desere is a parent and supporter of two daughters who have been through the AARC program, and she talks about the challenges and rewards of being involved in their recovery process.

They both share their insights and advice for anyone who is struggling with addiction or knows someone who is. Tune in to hear their inspiring stories of how they went from darkness to life with the help of AARC. For more information about AARC, visit their website at [aarc.ab.ca].

🎧 Listen now on our website:

https://ourcollectivejourney.ca/podcast

or wherever you get your favourite podcasts!

#ourcollectivejourney #ocj #fromdarknesstolife #fdtl #substanceuse #recoverycommunity #recoveryadvocates #recoveryispossible #recoveroutloud #resilience #rosc #community #connection #resiliency #healing

In this episode of the podcast, Ryan chats with Ben, a registered psychologist who has a passion for helping people overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. Ben explains what therapy can look like for different clients, depending on their needs, preferences, and personalities. He also talks about the importance of building rapport and trust with his clients, and how he uses hypnotherapy as a tool to help facilitate positive change. 

Ben shares some of his experiences and insights from working with trauma survivors, and how he helps them heal and cope with their past. Ryan and Ben also discuss some of the common myths and misconceptions about therapy, and why it is beneficial to seek professional help when facing difficulties in life. 

This is a fascinating and informative conversation that will give you a better understanding of the role and benefits of therapy in our lives. Don’t miss it! 

🎧 Listen now on our website:

https://ourcollectivejourney.ca/podcast

or wherever you get your favourite podcasts!

Interested in connecting meeting with Ben or one of the many therapists at Keys to Hope? Find them at: keystohopecounsellingservices.com