A life transformed through sobriety—today’s guest has not only overcome addiction but has turned his journey into a mission to help others. As a TEDx speaker, best-selling author and dedicated endurance athlete Nick’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery and community. In this episode, we get into his personal battle with alcohol, the moment he hit rock bottom and the strategies that have kept him sober for the long haul. Beyond his sobriety journey Nick shares how he rebuilt his life through physical fitness and personal development. From doing Ironman’s before he was sober to achieving peak performance after recovery he explains how sleep, discipline and community support has impacted his success. His book Executive Loneliness shines a light on the hidden struggles of high achieving professionals and the need for open conversations around mental health and connection. If you're looking for motivation, practical advice, and a reminder that rehabilitation may lead to a better version of yourself, this episode is for you.  Whether you're newly clean, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in personal development, Nick's insights will provide you with lessons on resilience, health, and finding purpose beyond addiction.

• [01:54] Tim introduces guest Nick Jonsson, a TEDx speaker and author.  
• [02:54] Nick shares his background—born in Sweden, educated in Australia, and living in Southeast Asia for 20 years. He discusses his early experiences with alcohol in Sweden, where access was heavily regulated.  
• [04:20] Drinking became a problem when Nick moved to Australia at 23, where alcohol was widely available and socially encouraged.  
• [05:55] Drinking escalated in Asia, leading to health issues. Even after hospitalization in Thailand, he initially denied alcohol as the cause.  
• [07:52] Nick describes his attempts to quit drinking, culminating in a failed attempt on his birthday in 2018, which led him to seek medical detox.  
• [09:33] He began his sobriety journey with AA, attending daily meetings for the first few years. 
• [10:03] He's been sober for 7 years.
• [11:21] Nick discovered that about 33% of senior executives in Singapore were lonely and isolated. He realized this was a problem. This was the beginning of Nick writing Executive Loneliness.
• [12:32] His TEDx talk is partially based on the book where he talks about getting healthy and getting proper sleep.
• [13:26] He studied everything on sleep. One of the top tips he discovered was taping your mouth.
• [15:01] His Ironman numbers improved when he got extra sleep.
• [17:47] Community support, including AA and men’s groups, played a crucial role in maintaining long-term sobriety. 
• [19:01] It's helpful to be an authentic groups that aren't just about sobriety.
• [20:51] Ironman racing was part of his life before sobriety, but his performance improved drastically after quitting alcohol.  
• [22:15] One of the things that has changed for Nick is his ability to ask for help and be more vulnerable.
• [23:08] Finding mentorship and being part of an elite triathlon training group helped him excel as an athlete.  
• [25:15] In order to train, he became extremely disciplined and also stopped watching news.
• [27:37] Physical health became a priority, especially for managing high cholesterol. Instead of medication, he chose daily exercise.  
• [29:17] He discusses the impact of isolation and anxiety on mental and physical health, sharing how unresolved stress led to psychosomatic illness. 
• [31:31] People need personal and professional safe spaces and friend groups that they can talk to.
• [33:27] Leaders in high-stress environments need to prioritize self-care rather than glorifying overwork.  
• [35:02] Social media has played a significant role in spreading awareness about sobriety and mental health.  
• [36:12] Nick shares his most unexpected lesson. He encourages listeners to acknowledge and talk about their struggles.  
• [37:55] If you're trying to get sober, talk to someone. He has free resources in the back of his book Executive Loneliness.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• Nick Jonsson
• Nick Jonsson - Executive Loneliness Book
• Nick Jonsson - Podfolio
• Nick Jonsson - LinkedIn
• Nick Jonsson - YouTube
• Nick Jonsson - Facebook
• Nick Jonsson - Instagram

I’m joined by two amazing guests: Dr. Douglas Brackmann and Steve Distante. Dr. Brackmann is a psychologist, meditation expert and author who works with high performing entrepreneurs, athletes and creatives. He has a deep understanding of neuroscience and human behavior and helps individuals harness their unique brain wiring to overcome obstacles and achieve peak performance. Steve is an entrepreneur, author and investor who has built and scaled multiple businesses. He’s passionate about leadership and impact driven entrepreneurship and helps business owners with the tools they need to succeed while staying true to their values. We dive into the intersection of neuroscience, addiction recovery and peak performance. Dr. Brackmann goes into the effects of THC and modafinil on the brain, how they create illusions of clarity and connection while dampening long term well being. Steve shares his entrepreneurial journey, how mindset, leadership and adaptability have been key to his success. We talk about the challenges and opportunities that come with high performance thinking whether in business or in recovery. We also talk about powerful wellness strategies, cold plunging and breathwork, how they increase mental clarity, resilience and emotional regulation. We also talk about self awareness, discipline and being able to confront challenges head on. Whether you’re in recovery, personal growth or professional development this episode will give you valuable insights to building a life of purpose and strength.

• [03:38] Dr. Douglas Brackmann went into recovery in April of 1986. THC did enter his world so now he's 2 years sober again.
• [04:56] The THC woke up the monster so to speak.
• [07:22] Modafinil is actually artificial flow. 
• [11:02] Steve Distante has been an entrepreneur since he was 6 years old. He loves to work with entrepreneurs. He's also written three books. He also has a 400 acre farm in Georgia where he offers retreats. He also offers Airstream experiences.
• [15:59] the anterior cingulate is the part of our brain that regulates willpower. Buddhist monks and Navy Seals have very well developed anterior cingulate areas. 
• [22:45] The benefits of cold plunging. It helps eliminate stress and makes you more grounded.
• [25:21] Entrepreneurs have so much going on it's good to put your spirit or your soul in the driver's seat.
• [28:54] Have checks and balances but always give the illusion of control as a leader.
• [35:37] Holding values like gratitude, respect, innovation, teamwork, and trust worthiness dear.
• [37:05] THC dampens the light of the spirit and disconnects you from your soul.
• [52:47] The pros and cons of taking Vyvanse.
• [54:22] The Sleep Eight mattress can track your sleep.
• [58:57] TMS helps stimulate your brain in a positive way. It was surprising how targeted they made it with brain mapping.
• [01:04:03] Tim does three sessions a day.
• [01:06:30] Being in flow and attracted to clarity and opportunity.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• Are You Driven?
• Dr. Douglas Brackmann - LinkedIn
• Driven: Understanding and Harnessing the Genetic Gifts Shared by Entrepreneurs, Navy SEALs, Pro Athletes, and Maybe YOU
• Dr. Douglas Brackmann - Facebook
• Dr. Douglas Brackmann - Instagram
• Pitchology
• Once Upon a Time in Entrepreneurland
• Steve Distante - LinkedIn
• Steve Distante - Vanderbilt Financial Group
• Steve Distante - Instagram
• Pitchology: The Art & Science of Raising Capital for Entrepreneurs
• Othership app
• Inspired Performance Institute
• Eight Sleep
• Whoop

For most, success is built by hard work and smart decisions, but for Matt Waltz it’s been a journey of self discovery, resilience and transformation. As a seasoned entrepreneur Matt built a successful business with Waltz Construction and then turned his focus to making a difference through his work with New Freedom. But beyond the professional achievements Matt’s personal story is one of overcoming deep seated fears, dealing with addiction and creating a new way of being. Today Matt joins us to share his story of innovation, leadership and personal renewal. He talks about his struggles with alcohol, the turning points that led him to seek recovery and the big aha’s that came along the way. From facing the reality of addiction to trying unconventional healing methods like ayahuasca Matt’s path to sobriety has not been linear. Now, 16 months sober he reflects on the lessons learned, the support systems that kept him going and the mindset shifts that made lasting change possible. This is about more than just conquering addiction; it's about breaking free from the constraints we impose on ourselves and discovering purpose in the process. Whether you're in recovery, coping with your own challenges, or simply looking for inspiration, Matt's experience demonstrates that perseverance is possible and that the journey is everything.

• [03:47] Matt had a tumultuous childhood. There was always anxiety about money.
• [04:15] He went to college and got an engineering degree. 
• [05:06] After 10 years with a big company, he realized that it wasn't providing the security he had hoped for.
• [06:01] He decided to take control of his destiny, and he opened his own construction company.
• [09:55] When he went to put in his notice, he was allowed to continue working for them while he started his business.
• [10:52] It took a couple years for his company to take off. He first began installing doors and windows for Lowe's.
• [11:38] Capitalize on opportunities when they present themselves.
• [14:22] We learn about the turning point that led Matt into deciding that he wanted to stop drinking. 
• [15:29] He experienced alcohol withdrawals and realized he had to do something different in order to survive.
• [17:33] The first time he tried, he stayed sober for a couple of weeks. 
• [24:38] How Matt realized that fear was a huge driver for him. He went through the process of forgiving himself and loving himself.
• [25:59] How psychedelics like Ayahuasca help you find answers.
• [28:31] He continued managing the social aspect of drinking or at least trying to.
• [29:34] 15 months ago he made a deal with himself not to drink anymore.
• [32:29] Managing stress without alcohol. Matt enjoys conversations with people. 
• [34:45] The calming centering feeling of being nobody.
• [35:52] Letting things go when you don't have control. When you can do things, do it. Sometimes stress helps you know where to focus and what problems to solve.
• [36:57] Sometimes anxiety is a trigger to a call to action.
• [41:49] Matt met his wife in 1999.
• [50:20] Matt's life has changed so much, it's the total inverse of how we used to be.
• [52:53] How you feel inside and financial success are independent of each other. Fulfillment comes from working on yourself and being the best you can be.
• [54:22] How Matt's perspective on business and leadership has changed since he stopped drinking.
• [01:01:23] We learn about his opportunity for New Freedom and how it traces back to Matt's rough roots. 
• [01:04:31] The future of New Freedom. They also opened a women's facility.
• [01:05:23] Matt wants the general public to know that there are good things happening in the world and the impact of helping people leave the self-destructive life of crime behind and successfully reenter society.
• [01:06:48] He would like to open multiple facilities in the coming years.
• [01:08:57] When you're struggling, it's important to find a way to be honest with yourself.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• Matt Waltz - LinkedIn
• New Freedom
• New Freedom - Facebook
• Waltz Construction
• [email protected]
• Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends On It
• Aubrey Marcus Podcast

I’m honored to have Dr. Richard Bermudez, the National Medical Director at Brainsway, joining us. Dr. Bermudez is a pioneer in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a groundbreaking treatment for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. With years of expertise in neuroscience and psychiatry, he has made it his mission to expand the accessibility and efficacy of innovative mental health therapies. Today, he’ll share his journey from electrical engineering to medicine and how it shaped his passion for non-invasive brain stimulation treatments. We dive into the science behind TMS and how it differs from traditional mental health treatments like medication and talk therapy. Dr. Bermudez explains the evolution of TMS technology, including its ability to stimulate specific brain networks through advanced coil designs. We’ll also discuss the transformative outcomes TMS provides for patients, as well as its potential for treating conditions beyond depression, from obsessive-compulsive disorder to nicotine dependence. Whether you're a clinician, a mental health advocate, or simply curious about this cutting-edge therapy, this discussion promises to be both educational and inspiring. As we explore TMS, Dr. Bermudez highlights its safety, versatility, and unique role in fostering neuroplasticity. He compares TMS with other emerging treatments like ketamine therapy and discusses the collaborative innovations underway at Brainsway. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health, neuroscience, or the future of non-invasive treatments. 

• [03:32] We've had great success with TMS at Camelback Integrated Health and Wellness.
• [04:14] Dr. Bermudes started out as an engineer and ended up switching to biology in college. 
• [05:38] He worked in a physiology lab doing neurophysiology research and brain stimulation. He learned that the brain was an electrochemical organ.
• [06:22] He ended up going into medicine and psychiatry. He became clinically interested in non-invasive brain stimulation.
• [08:44] Brainsway is like a family with a very collaborative culture. They want to transition into a true neuroscience technology company.
• [10:03] It's an exciting time for the organization and for neuroscience.
• [13:23] How TMS differs from traditional medications or therapies. Transcranial means it's across the skull but it's not invasive. They use a high-powered magnet to induce a small electrical current.
• [15:40] Brainsway developed their technology in conjunction with the NIH and their coils are what are called complex coils.
• [16:47] 8 out of 10 patients have had a clinically significant change in their depression score.
• [19:07] There are three brain networks responsible for our mental health and Brainsway has three different helmets and coils. Each one modulates a different network.
• [21:47] TMS is safe and good for all of our brains. It induces neuroplasticity.
• [23:22] Deep TMS and standard TMS. Deep TMS stimulates more areas of the networks.
• [26:54] Functional MRIs and studies related to TMS.
• [28:33] Neurological changes that TMS produces in the brain. TMS belongs with the other pillars of substance abuse treatments.
• [30:01] We learn about conditions that TMS is cleared to treat. 
• [39:58] There are different targets or areas of the brain that need to be modulated to affect different brain networks. There's not a lot of evidence that TMS would work for bipolar mania or autism or ADHD.
• [43:22] We learn about the typical TMS protocol and how long it takes to start to see results.
• [51:20] Dr. Bermudes talks about accelerated protocols and the use of TMS and ketamine.
• [55:00] Avoiding toxic conversations and watching the news. You don't want negative experiences on your plastic brain. The patient experience is important and it's good to have a calm, safe, welcoming environment.
• [57:17] TMS and psychedelics like ketamine. They both have glutamate which is our excitatory neurotransmitter.
• [59:06] Things to think about when deciding between TMS or ketamine. 
• [01:03:22] Safety profiles of TMS versus ketamine. Safety concerns for TMS include not having any metal in your head and likelihood of having seizures.
• [01:12:00] Misconceptions about TMS.
• [01:14:11] Accessibility and insurance cost for TMS.
• [01:20:34] A device based treatment that doesn't require a doctor or a psychiatrist will help address the shortage of psychiatric prescribers.
• [01:21:53] It's surprising how many research articles about TMS are available now.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• BrainsWay Knowledge Center
• Dr. Richard Bermudes Brainsway
• Dr. Richard Bermudes LinkedIn

I'm so excited to welcome Ross Mitchell, the Vice President of Global Marketing at BrainsWay, to the show today! Ross is leading the charge in healthcare marketing, especially in mental health, where he’s helping to spread the word about innovative treatments that make a real difference in people’s lives. Ross has been working with Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or Deep TMS, a groundbreaking therapy that’s changing how we approach conditions like depression, OCD, and smoking addiction. With his experience from leadership roles at companies like Medtronic and Clorox Healthcare, Ross combines deep industry knowledge with a strong, patient-focused approach. At BrainsWay, he’s guiding a mission to open up new avenues in mental health and recovery. In this episode, we’ll dive into the benefits of Deep TMS, BrainsWay’s mission, and how this therapy is bringing new hope and wellness to so many. Ross will break down the science and impact of this non-invasive outpatient treatment, which uses targeted electromagnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. We’ll explore everything from who might benefit most to the incredible outcomes patients are seeing in just a few weeks.

• [03:51] We met about a month ago at the BrainsWay conference. We've seen amazing results with TMS.
• [04:38] Ross has been with BrainsWay for about 7 years. At first, no one really knew about TMS. Now most psychiatrists are very familiar with it.
• [05:48] Ross is well aware that mental health and addiction is a huge issue.
• [06:04] Deep TMS stands for deep transcranial magnetic stimulation. It's a non-invasive outpatient procedure which uses an electromagnetic coil embedded in a helmet. It generates electromagnetic pulses that target specific areas of the brain.
• [07:01] They are FDA cleared to treat depression, OCD, and smoking addiction.
• [08:01] TMS is usually used along with other modalities.
• [09:39] The electromagnetic coil targets areas of the brain that aren't functioning the way we would expect.
• [10:45] The bread and butter of TMS is treating depression.
• [12:26] They've seen phenomenal results using this technique.
• [13:14] We learn about the ideal candidate for TMS.
• [14:11] Ross explains the outpatient procedure for TMS. The Dropout rates are remarkably low.
• [16:27] The standard treatment is 20 minutes, but there are new modalities coming out like the theta verse. 
• [18:53] We are still discovering things about TMS, but we do know that the more sessions you do the more people continue to improve.
• [20:59] The stimulation for depression also helps improve anxiety problems.
• [22:37] Having therapy after TMS can be helpful.
• [24:50] A lot of people start to see meaningful benefits within two weeks.
• [28:27] BrainsWay is based in Israel, but most of their operations are in the US. Their mission is to focus on mental health and improve the lives of patients.
• [33:29] There's a lot of misinformation about TMS. Your risk of seizure is low and it's not ECT. TMS is very safe.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• BrainsWay Knowledge Center
• Ross Mitchell BrainsWay
• Find a Provider
• Ross Mitchell LinkedIn

Have you ever wondered how brain science is influencing mental health treatment? In today's episode, I speak with Dr. Colleen Hanlon, the Vice President of Medical Affairs of Brainsway. Dr. Hanlon, who specializes in neurobiology and has pioneered work in therapies such as deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ketamine, discusses how these creative approaches are helping people recover from depression, PTSD, and addiction. Dr. Hanlon and I talk about the science behind TMS and ketamine therapy, why they're effective, and who might benefit the most. We look at how TMS activates certain brain networks to aid recovery, such as rousing up drowsy regions of the brain associated with depression, and how ketamine provides quick relief, particularly for people in immediate need. Furthermore, we discuss how combining TMS and ketamine may improve outcomes for specific individuals. If you're interested in mental health or looking for alternative treatment options, you'll benefit greatly from this conversation. Stay tuned to see how these revolutionary cures are transforming people's lives.

• [03:17] We met at the BrainsWay conference about a month ago. Addiction recovery is one of Colleen's passions.
• [04:21] Brain stimulation is a third pillar of how we treat mental health these days. We can modulate brain activity through electromagnetic induction.
• [05:20] A TMS coil is placed over the head. It's placed over the network that's affected and then it helps to restore energy to that region.
• [08:21] We learn about how the TMS coil works and the electricity in the pulse. Magnetic fields generate electricity and neurons in our brain are sensitive to electricity.
• [13:18] Common conditions that TMS treats. Depression which has a variety of different types. Subtypes of depression involve different networks in the brain.
• [16:29] Side effects are extremely low. 
• [17:29] Ketamine therapy. Ketamine can be given through a nasal spray or an injection and it works fast.
• [23:47] Can people with addictive personalities use ketamine? Risk benefit profiles.
• [30:01] Theta burst stimulation and how it acts faster. 
• [34:06] We learn who would be a good candidate for TMS.
• [40:06] The wearable market is also growing.
• [41:19] We learn how Colleen's passion about addiction recovery began with learning about dopamine.
• [42:39] We learn what the future of addiction treatment could look like. There are two really therapeutic strategies for using TMS to treat addiction. Links mentioned in this episode:
• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• BrainsWay Knowledge Center
• BrainsWay Dr. Colleen Hanlon
• Dr. Colleen Hanlon Ex-Twitter
• Dr. Colleen Hanlon LinkedIn

Terra Holbrook is the founder of TerraVista Retreats in Idaho, a unique healing space dedicated to helping individuals recover from trauma, addiction, and other life challenges. With over two decades of experience as a therapist, Terra specializes in trauma-informed care, focusing on guiding people through the often hidden layers of trauma that can affect every aspect of their lives.

I want to share that I personally attended Terra's program, and it was a profound experience. We begin with Terra briefly explaining her work and how she came to open TerraVista Retreat in Idaho. Then, we dive into the topic of trauma. Trauma is something everyone experiences, and it's really about how we respond afterward when we can't fully resolve the events or experiences we've endured.

In today's episode, we'll explore the concept of hidden trauma—what it is, how it manifests, and how it can be addressed and healed. Terra brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this topic, and I'm excited for her to share her insights with all of you.

• [03:57] I went through Terra's program, and the experience was profound.
• [05:17] Terra shares a brief overview of her background and what led her to start TerraVista Retreats. 
• [08:47] Everyone experiences trauma.
• [09:37] Trauma is really what happens to us after the event where our body freezes in the state of fear, pain, or dysregulation and what we do afterwards to compensate for not being able to come to some resolution about the thing or things that happen to us.
• [10:09] Hidden traumas are those things that we respond to every day, have reenacted, and don't even understand we've created a life that reenacts what's going on because we're trying to master the thing we couldn't back then and so our behaviors, our beliefs, the way that we respond, our relationships suffer from these events.
• [11:12] Trauma is a stripping of safety.
• [11:37] Terra shares an example where she picked a fight every time her husband was about to go on a trip. She took a look at her discomfort and remembered that her dad had died on a business trip when she was 17.
• [13:10] Pushing him away to not feel the absence of his leaving was a hidden trauma.
• [18:01] A lot happens at the retreats including getting vulnerable.
• [18:37] Tim shares one of his most traumatic childhood experiences. This was also when he started his path to drinking and drugs.
• [22:50] When you start remembering things that you have forgotten about is when you start doing the work.
• [28:23] So much of the work that we do is going back to those parts of our younger self.
• [34:07] These regulation practices rewire the brain and help create safety in parts that didn't feel safe.
• [36:14] The work that Terra does feel sacred to her.
• [37:19] We talk about the common misconceptions people have about trauma.
• [39:07] One of the most difficult traumas to work with is when there's a miss attunement with the child's needs and what the parent sees in the child.
• [41:03] At TerraVista people get the tools they need to rescue themselves.
• [44:47] We set ourselves up for protection from a thing that happened many years ago. We set up barriers, and we become boundaryless. We end up choosing people in our lives that will reenact that lack of safety or whatever the lack is.
• [46:57] After doing the work, the chaos doesn't feel good anymore.
• [48:38] When someone gets clean and sober, all of the habits have to change. It takes time for the brain to settle in a place and reboot.
• [53:09] Signs and symptoms of trauma include relationship issues that don't seem resolvable. Such as choosing the same type of person over and over again.
• [54:03] We need to understand that the answer is inside of us.
• [01:00:20] The pure essence of anger is a motivator.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• Terra Holbrook
• Contact Terra (208) 515-6013
• TerraVista Retreat Facebook
• Gabor Mate
• The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom

“You will believe without a doubt, you will achieve what others doubt.” That is a quote from my guest today, Tony Grebmeier.

Tony built up a multimillion-dollar business in ShipOffers, which was ranked as one of Inc. 5000's fastest-growing private companies in the U.S., all while battling addiction with drugs and alcohol.

Tony's determination and resilience led him to not only build a successful business but also to become a beacon of hope and motivation for others. As the host of the Be Fulfilled Podcast: The Real Stories Behind Success, Tony has spent six seasons redefining what it means to be truly successful.

In today's episode, we'll dive into Tony's story, exploring the highs and lows of his journey. Whether you're on a personal or professional path to fulfillment, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and inspiration to help you climb your own success mountain.

• [04:17] One of Tony's best gifts from recovery was learning he has no control over other people's opinions.
• [05:12] When Tony was drinking, he had no idea that people could change and go into recovery.
• [09:07] Tony shares the circumstances of going to his first meeting which led to 15 years of recovery.
• [10:05] He focuses on figuring out what he can do today to be 1% better and that's all that matters. It's easier to be honest and truthful.
• [11:42] Tony was 2 years old the first time he drank.
• [13:51] When he was 36 years old, it was the time to make a change in his life.
• [19:04] His first 90 days of sobriety included calling his sponsor and going to meetings everyday. He missed a couple days of not checking in, but he made his meetings and did his work.
• [20:41] He needs one thing to focus on. No drinking, no drugging.
• [23:08] Tony talks about battling addiction while building ShipOffers. 
• [28:34] It's our job to put the initiative in so we don't have to worry about how it works out.
• [33:06] When life throws Tony a curveball, he starts with gratitude.
• [37:26] Ego. Tony says that when egos are in play there's nothing else going on.
• [41:27] Fulfillment is everything to Tony. 
• [42:01] He also has a book coming out called, The Power of Fulfillment. True empowerment and fulfillment comes from identifying what I want to be today when I wake up in the morning.
• [48:43] Serving and getting into action is one of the greatest gifts.
• [50:51] The Be Fulfilled Master Class is all the work that Tony's been doing. It's free, and it's mostly about taking ownership of your life.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• Tony Grebmeier
• Tony Grebmeier (303) 999-5007
• Be Fulfilled Podcast
• Tony Grebmeier Facebook
• Tony Grebmeier LinkedIn
• ShipOffers
• Be Fulfilled

I’m happy to introduce you to Amy Moore, a beacon of hope and transformation in the world of addiction recovery. Amy's personal journey from struggle to sobriety ignites her passion for healing others. Her heart-centered approach turns interventions into acts of love, promoting family unity and personal growth through education, group therapy, and compassionate support.

When she's not in the therapy room, Amy embraces life and nature with open arms. Whether she's hiking with her family, snowboarding, or capturing the beauty of a sunset, she finds joy and renewal in the great outdoors. A cornerstone of her recovery community, Amy shares her story and wisdom through speaking engagements and podcasts, spreading hope and offering a roadmap to long-term sobriety.

Listen in as we learn more about Amy's inspiring journey and her mission to bring light to the lives of those battling addiction, one heart, one family at a time.

• [04:07] Amy grew up on a farm in rural Colorado. They had a wood burning stove and used an extension cord for electricity.
• [05:18] Her dad was also drunk every single day. He was violent and came back from treatment even angrier.
• [07:09] She had a rough childhood and took care of her siblings. Cooking is her love language.
• [10:41] Amy wanted to be the best daughter while on her healing journey.
• [12:29] It's been great getting to know her mom after all of the previous trauma.
• [12:53] Amy was never going to drink and do drugs. She left home at 14 and was pregnant at 15. 
• [14:02] She gave birth at 16 and got divorced at 17.
• [14:16] She was living in a program for teenage mothers and going to college.
• [15:02] A guy she was dating talked her into having a couple of drinks.
• [16:33] She couldn't stop drinking and she even started doing drugs. 
• [21:45] She was out of control and even got into an accident with a bunch of police cars.
• [23:13] She lost custody of her daughter while she was in jail after this incident.
• [24:42] She was depressed and her mom recommended rehab. 
• [25:09] When she was 21, she checked herself into the Salvation Army 6-month program.
• [27:38] She completed the Salvation Army program and still goes back and checks in once in a while.
• [30:29] Amy talks about how she was inspired to become an interventionist.
• [31:39] She did her first intervention in 2005. In 2012, she was offered an opportunity to train as an interventionist. She worked with this trainer for 3 years.
• [36:15] If a family is met with resistance by a loved one who they want to get better, an interventionist might be able to help.
• [37:33] Amy operates in a love first model of intervention.
• [38:12] Intervention is so the family can start healing and coming back together. Success around intervention is starting the conversation so that that person has no other choice but to go get help, eventually.
• [39:02] Reminding someone how much they're loved and how much of an impact they have on the world is powerful in getting the prefrontal cortex turned back on.
• [40:44] The prefrontal cortex is the thinking part of your brain. Alcohol and drugs have the ability to shut that off. Getting the brain to start working and being a participant in making decisions and being part of a plan is a beginning.
• [45:25] Amy shares a transformational story. 
• [47:38] Know you're not alone and that there are people out there who really do care.
• [50:59] We learn about love meditation. Amy also says a lot of prayers. 
• [52:58] Amy's morning routine is a 10 on the importance scale. 
• [54:26] Amy wants to get the word out to everybody about resources and mental health. 

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• Amy Moore Intervention Specialist
• Amy Moore LinkedIn
• Amy Moore on Instagram
• Contact Amy Moore (303) 915-7072

I have a deeply moving and inspirational story to share with you. My guest, Todd Belfer, has been on a remarkable journey of transformation and healing. Todd has been clean and sober for over two decades, successfully overcoming his struggles with drugs and alcohol. However, his path took an unexpected turn a little over a year ago when he faced the unimaginable pain of his son’s suicide. This profound loss led Todd to explore a realm he was once firmly against—psychedelics.

In this episode, Todd will share how this exploration has significantly impacted his life and recovery. Despite his initial reservations, Todd now advocates for the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, especially in dealing with grief and trauma. We discuss his journey to sobriety, the events that led him to reconsider psychedelics, and how these substances have helped him cope with his loss without jeopardizing his sobriety.

Join us in this complex interplay between addiction recovery and psychedelic therapy. We’ll talk about Todd’s experiences, from his initial concerns to his transformative sessions with psychedelics. He provides insights into how these experiences have helped him heal, why he believes psychedelics can be safe and beneficial for those in recovery, and what advice he has for others considering this path. This conversation promises to be both heartfelt and enlightening, offering hope and new perspectives on healing and recovery.

• [05:30] Todd shares how he married his drinking buddy. They had fun, traveled, and drank together. When his wife got pregnant, she looked at him differently and decided to leave. 
• [07:10] Todd went to AA and loved it. Each meeting he let his guard down. 
• [11:04] He slowly began to accept things and started doing the work of getting sober.
• [14:04] Todd was a staunch believer in sobriety at all cost.
• [15:01] He was in so much pain after his son passed. His wife at the time recommended trying ketamine or MDMA to deal with all of the grief and pain he was going through.
• [16:04] He went on a journey with her and connected with his son. It was a healing 5-hour experience where he felt love and connection.
• [20:20] The psychedelics really help the struggle of separating the ego and forgiving ourselves.
• [21:26] He also had an extremely profound hypnotherapy session.
• [25:33] Todd can wholeheartedly say that psychedelics aren't a gateway to relapsing.
• [28:48] Psychedelics gave Todd peace and comfort.
• [30:14] Psilocybin wasn't as profound for him as MDMA and ketamine.
• [32:02] Drugs and alcohol numb you out, where psychedelics bring you closer to your feelings.
• [36:42] Psychedelics have increased his ability to connect with people on another level.
• [42:01] Psychedelics aren't recommended for people new to recovery. Do it under professional care as an internal journey to expand. 
• [47:54]  Sobriety, 12 step recovery, and psychedelics and a professional manner is a beautiful combination that can heal so many people.
• [51:59] Trying a psychedelic experience in a spiritual and professional manner could release you from who you think you are in the life that you're living.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Camelback Recovery
• I Love Being Sober YouTube
• The Laundry List Podcast
• Todd Belfer (602) 332-8974