🎙️ Episode 16 - Star Trek and the Circle Method: A Game-Changing Roadmap for Sobriety & Breaking Bad Habits

In this episode of the Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland (Licensed Therapist & EMDR specialist) and Zack Carter (Counselor & Coach) reveal a practical, battle-tested roadmap to help men break free from addiction, compulsive habits, and self-sabotaging patterns.

Using a simple yet powerful visual framework known as "The Circle Sheet"—borrowed from 12-step traditions and infused with a healthy dose of Star Trek wisdom—Zack walks you through how to create your own personal sobriety plan. Whether you’re battling porn addiction, over-drinking, procrastination, emotional reactivity, or something else, this episode gives you tools that are simple, actionable, and grounded in both science and experience.

🔥 What You’ll Learn:

• What the Outer, Middle, and Inner Circles mean and how they relate to relapse cycles
• The psychology of triggers (a.k.a. “Yellow Alert”) and how to interrupt them
• How to replace destructive habits with purposeful actions
• Why identifying your personal heroes and values changes your recovery trajectory
• The surprising link between addiction and isolation—and how connection heals

Zack also shares his own method for integrating the "Pareto Principle (80/20 Rule)" into your recovery game plan—helping you identify the 2 most effective actions that keep you mentally and emotionally strong.

Oh, and yes… there’s plenty of nerdy Star Trek humor, Photon Torpedoes, and a spontaneous side mission to Comic Con.

🧠 Who This Is For:

• Men struggling with addiction, compulsive behavior, or bad habits
• Husbands, fathers, leaders, and entrepreneurs seeking freedom and clarity
• Fans of Jordan Peterson, Jocko Willink, or Dave Ramsey seeking faith-informed tools for healing
• Anyone curious about how EMDR and 12-step principles can work together for lasting growth

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

🔗 Ready to Escape the Cage?
Book a free 30-minute consultation or learn more about therapy and coaching for men at:
👉 https://www.escapethecagenow.com

🎙️ Episode 15 – How to Find a Spouse: What Actually Matters in Love & Dating

In this practical and insightful episode of The Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland (Certified EMDR Therapist) and Zack Carter (Counselor & Coach) dive deep into what it really takes to find a lasting romantic relationship. Whether you're looking for a wife, evaluating someone you’re dating, or just feeling frustrated by the modern dating world, this episode is for you.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

What traits people think matter—but actually don’t (hint: looks and income aren’t everything)
Why your top three non-negotiables matter more than a long wishlist
The surprising science behind long-term relationship success
Red flags to avoid: narcissism, manipulation, lack of empathy, and emotional instability
How to recognize attachment styles and what they mean for your relationship
Why being with someone who’s willing to grow matters more than finding someone “perfect”
How your own unresolved issues may be affecting who you’re attracted to
A practical exercise to clarify what you really want in a spouse—and what to ignore
Why chemistry is not the same as compatibility
The mindset shift that helps men move from anxious or avoidant dating habits to confident connection
💥 This isn’t about playing games or chasing status—it’s about building a real foundation for a lifelong, meaningful relationship.

About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast helps men break free, heal deep, and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by Mark Odland and Zack Carter, we explore meaningful topics like masculinity, marriage, mental health, legacy, faith, trauma, and emotional resilience—with clarity, honesty, and a touch of humor.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

➡️ What are YOUR top 3 must-haves in a future spouse?

🎙️ Episode 14 – Jonathan Pageau on Trauma, Memory & the Symbolic Path to Healing

In this profound conversation, Mark Odland (Certified EMDR Therapist & founder of Lion Counseling) is joined by renowned Orthodox Christian artist and cultural commentator Jonathan Pageau (The Symbolic World) to explore a topic rarely covered in Pageau’s public work: trauma, memory, and personal transformation.

With approximately 250,000 subscribers, Jonathan is known globally for helping people rediscover the symbolic patterns that shape reality—in scripture, culture, art, and personal life. In this episode, he and Mark dive into how trauma and memory shape identity, and how both psychological healing and spiritual hierarchy can help men reorder their lives.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

Why trauma is like a symbolic vortex that tries to consume identity
How EMDR therapy helps reorient painful memories and restore wholeness
Jonathan’s reflections on symbolism, ritual, and the modern man’s identity crisis
The hidden symbolic structure of trauma and healing
What happens when your trauma becomes the “sacred center” of your story—and how to replace it
Why men need hierarchy, tradition, and myth to make sense of suffering
How ritual, memory, and imagination were meant to ground and heal us
The relationship between Protestantism, secularism, and the loss of meaning
What Jonathan learned about story, masculinity, and spiritual resilience from his own journey
A surprising dialogue between symbolic theology and modern trauma therapy
How to leave a legacy that restores rather than fragments

💥 Whether you found Jonathan through Jordan Peterson, are drawn to deep theology, or you're simply a man trying to make sense of pain, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Learn more about Jonathan Pageau at thesymbolicworld.com

About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast helps men escape the cages that hold them back and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by Mark Odland and Zack Carter, we explore real topics like trauma, masculinity, anxiety, identity, purpose, and spiritual growth—blending faith, psychology, and personal transformation.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

➡️ What part of this conversation with Jonathan Pageau resonated with you most?

Episode 14 – 🎙️ Understanding Trauma and How to Heal

What is trauma really—and why can it affect us years after the event?

In this episode of The Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland (Certified EMDR Therapist) and Zack Carter (Counselor & Coach) explain trauma in a clear, practical, and non-intimidating way. If you've experienced stress, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm that feels hard to shake, this episode offers helpful insights and next steps.

🔍 What You’ll Learn:

• What trauma is and how it impacts the brain and nervous system
• The difference between PTSD and complex trauma (CPTSD)
• How past experiences may still influence your thoughts, behavior, or mood
• The role of EMDR therapy in emotional recovery
• What “post-traumatic growth” looks like—and how to move toward it
• Signs you might be coping through avoidance or distraction
• Safe, practical ways to begin processing past experiences
• How to know if therapy could be a helpful next step

💬 Whether you're a high-functioning man with hidden stress, or someone working through past challenges, this episode can help you understand what's going on—and what healing could look like.

About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast helps men break free, heal deep, and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by Mark Odland, Licensed Therapist & EMDR Specialist, and Zack Carter, Counselor & Coach, the show explores mental health, resilience, identity, faith, and personal growth in a thoughtful and honest way.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

👉 Want to learn more or get support? Visit www.escapethecagenow.com for counseling and coaching options.

➡️ What’s one step you've taken to start healing from the past?

🎙️ Episode 12 – Burnout: Why You’re Exhausted (Even When Life Looks Good)

In this raw and honest episode of The Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland (Certified EMDR Therapist) and Zack Carter (Counselor & Coach) open up about their personal experiences with burnout—and what they learned through the process. Whether you're a business owner, husband, leader, or just a guy trying to hold it all together, this episode will help you understand why you’re running on fumes… even when life looks “successful” on paper.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

The real symptoms of burnout and how they differ from depression
What it means when you're successful but numb
Why you might feel angry, exhausted, or apathetic without knowing why
The 6 root causes of burnout: Workload, Control, Reward, Community, Fairness, and Values
How even faith-driven men with great families can burn out
Why resentment, over-functioning, and people-pleasing drain your strength
How to know when you’ve hit your emotional breaking point
The critical difference between “self-care” and selfishness
Why burnout is a warning sign—not a life sentence—and what to do about it
Real-life strategies you can use this week to reclaim peace and motivation
💥 If you’re tired, bitter, or just not feeling like yourself—this episode is for you.

About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast helps men escape the cages that hold them back and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by Mark Odland and Zack Carter, we explore issues like masculinity, trauma, anxiety, relationships, leadership, faith, identity, and emotional health—with truth, clarity, and courage.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

🎙️ Episode 11 – Manhood, Music, and Redemption: The Story of Aaron Dahl
In this powerful episode of The Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland sits down with Aaron Dahl, worship pastor at Eagle Brook Church, former touring rock musician, husband, and father of four. From addiction and homelessness to healing, fatherhood, and leading worship at one of the largest churches in the U.S., Aaron’s story is a raw, honest testimony of faith, transformation, and legacy.

Whether you’re a man struggling with addiction, questioning your purpose, or just trying to find your footing in a chaotic world, this episode is for you.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Hear:

How Aaron went from singing on stage with P.O.D. to nearly losing his life in addiction
The journey from jail and rehab to leading worship for tens of thousands
Why manhood is about sacrifice, not ego—and what it means to lay down your life for others
The danger of putting too much emotional pressure on your wife—and why men need mentors and brotherhood
The role of music in Aaron’s healing, and how creativity connects us to God
The struggle with pride and success—and how to keep your gifts grounded in purpose
Why your legacy starts now—not later
A profound one-minute legacy exercise that will challenge you to reframe how you're living today
How to live 1% better each day, even if you're starting from rock bottom
💥 If you feel like your life is too messy or too far gone, Aaron’s story will remind you that God’s not done with you yet.

About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast helps men escape the cages that hold them back and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by Mark Odland, Certified EMDR Therapist, and Zack Carter, Counselor & Coach, we tackle real issues—masculinity, trauma, addiction, identity, purpose, marriage, and faith—with honesty, clarity, and courage.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

🎙️ Episode 10 – How to Be Happier: Real Strategies for a Life That Matters

In this episode of The Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland (Certified EMDR Therapist, LMFT) and Zack Carter (Counselor & Coach) explore one of life’s biggest questions: How can I be truly happy? Whether you're killing it at work but feeling empty inside, or just trying to shake off stress and find peace, this episode will give you the clarity—and the tools—you need.

Drawing from positive psychology, biblical wisdom, and decades of experience helping men grow, Mark and Zack break down what happiness actually is, and how to build a life that’s both fulfilling and meaningful.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

The 3 key ingredients of happiness: Pleasure, Engagement, and Meaning
Why happiness is a choice—and how to start making it daily
How to “practice” happiness through simple, repeatable habits
The danger of waiting for success to feel joy—and why happiness comes first
The brain science behind how Tetris, gratitude, and acts of kindness can change your outlook
How to reframe negative thinking and stop training your mind to see the worst
Why relationships are the single biggest predictor of long-term happiness
What to do if you’re feeling isolated, stuck, or alone
How spirituality and legacy shape a meaningful life
And Zack’s favorite practical tip: Do something today that makes you feel alive
💥 This isn’t just theory—it’s a call to action. You were made for more than grinding your way through life. You were made to enjoy it.

About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast helps men escape the cages that hold them back and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by Mark Odland and Zack Carter, we blend faith, psychology, and practical wisdom to tackle real issues like mental health, masculinity, purpose, addiction, marriage, and success.

👉 Ready for change? Visit www.escapethecagenow.com to connect with Mark or Zack for coaching or counseling.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

🎙️ Episode 9 – How to Conquer Anxiety: Real Tools for Real Men

In this episode of The Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland (Certified EMDR Therapist & LMFT) and Zack Carter (Counselor & Coach for Men) dive headfirst into one of the most common issues men face—but rarely talk about: anxiety.

Whether it shows up as stress, overthinking, irritability, or a pit in your stomach, this episode breaks down what anxiety really is, why it's not always the enemy, and how you can take back control using real-world strategies backed by psychology and faith.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

What anxiety actually is—and why your brain is wired for it
The difference between helpful anxiety and when it spirals into dysfunction
How to identify the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that feed anxiety
Tools for breaking out of all-or-nothing thinking and catastrophizing
How to challenge irrational beliefs using Zack’s 3-scenario tool
The science behind box breathing and how to use it to calm your nervous system fast
Why naming your emotions (“name it to tame it”) can reduce their power
What to do if you try everything and your anxiety still won’t go away
How CBT and EMDR work together to heal both the thoughts and the trauma
Faith-based encouragement and the power of acceptance, action, and hope

💥 You don’t have to be ruled by anxiety. You just need the right tools and the courage to try.

About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast helps men escape the cages that hold them back and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by Mark Odland and Zack Carter, we explore topics like masculinity, faith, mental health, emotional growth, leadership, trauma recovery, and purpose—with truth, grit, and grace.

👉 Get help or book a free consult at www.escapethecagenow.com

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

🎙️ Episode 8 – Manhood, Pressure, and the Power of Jiu Jitsu (with Lael Rodrigues)

In this powerful episode of The Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland sits down with Lael Rodrigues, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, coach, business owner, missionary, and founder of Superior Jiu Jitsu in Superior, WI. From surviving poverty in Brazil to transforming lives through martial arts and faith, Lael’s story is one of grit, purpose, and redemption.

🔥 Whether you're a man seeking more discipline, deeper purpose, or just wondering if you still have what it takes—this episode will challenge you.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why pressure is a privilege, and how facing adversity builds real strength
• How Lael used Jiu Jitsu as a tool to help children escape drugs, poverty, and violence in the slums of São Paulo
• What it really means to be a man—and why protecting, serving, and leading with humility is the mark of true masculinity
• The difference between Jiu Jitsu and other martial arts, and why it’s perfect for adults over 30
• How martial arts training can transform your mindset, self-control, and emotional resilience
• Why so many modern men feel disconnected—and how physical challenge, brotherhood, and purpose can reignite your soul
• Lael’s inspiring story of nearly dying twice, rebuilding his life after divorce, and refusing to tap out to hardship
• Why you need to seek out voluntary pressure—before life forces it on you

💥 This isn’t just about fighting—it’s about facing yourself, becoming stronger, and living a life that matters.

About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast exists to help men escape the cages that hold them back and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by Mark Odland, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified EMDR Therapist, we explore the intersection of faith, masculinity, mental health, leadership, purpose, and personal growth—without the fluff.

👉 Learn more or schedule counseling/coaching at www.escapethecagenow.com

📲 Like this episode? Subscribe, hit the bell, and drop a comment:

➡️ What kind of pressure are you willing to face to become the man you're called to be?

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

#MensMentalHealth #ChristianMen #BrazilianJiuJitsu #JiuJitsuLifestyle #PressureIsAPrivilege #SelfImprovementForMen #LionCounseling #PodcastForMen #Manhood #FaithAndFighting #SuperiorJiuJitsu #AddictionRecovery #AdversityAndGrowth #PurposeDrivenLife #MentalToughness

🎙️ Episode 7 – How to Improve Your Sobriety: Understanding the Root of Addiction
In this episode of The Lion Counseling Podcast, Mark Odland (Certified EMDR Therapist, LMFT) and Zack Carter(Counselor & Coach for Men) go far beyond surface-level recovery strategies to help men understand what’s really driving their addiction.

If you’ve ever thought, “I just need to stop watching porn, drinking, or gambling—then my life will be fine,” this episode will challenge and encourage you. Because the real issue isn't the behavior. It's the pain underneath it.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why your addiction isn’t the bullet… it’s the morphine
• The deeper emotional wounds and unmet needs driving addictive behaviors
• How to identify when, why, and where your urges strike using Zack’s “Three W’s” trigger tracker
• How stress, boredom, fear, celebration, and even success can trigger relapse
• The role of environmental cues and classical conditioning in behavior patterns
• The neuroscience behind dopamine, habituation, and escalation of use
• Why your addiction may be tied to emotional beliefs like “I’m loved,” “I’m powerful,” or “I’m accepted”
• How CBT and EMDR therapy work together to rewire both your brain and your story
• Practical ways to adjust your environment and habits for long-term sobriety
• Why relapse isn’t failure—but a signal pointing to where the healing needs to happen

💥 Whether you’re struggling with pornography, alcohol, drugs, gambling, or any compulsive behavior, this episode offers real strategies, clarity, and hope.

About the Show:
The Lion Counseling Podcast helps men escape the cages that hold them back and become the lions they were created to be. Hosted by the team at Lion Counseling, we talk about mental health, masculinity, addiction, trauma, faith, success, and emotional growth—from a grounded, faith-integrated, and truth-centered perspective.

👉 Looking for real change? Visit www.escapethecagenow.com to book a free consultation for coaching or counseling.

📲 Found this helpful? Subscribe, like, and share it with a friend.

💬 Comment below: What’s one trigger or false belief you’ve noticed connected to your habits?

Click here to watch a video of this episode.’

#AddictionRecovery #MensMentalHealth #Sobriety #ChristianMen #CBT #EMDRTherapy #PornAddictionHelp #AlcoholRecovery #WhyAddictionHappens #RelapseTriggers #EscapeTheCage #HabitChange #FaithAndRecovery #SelfImprovementForMen #LionCounseling #EmotionalHealing #PodcastForMen