On today’s episode of The Addicted Mind Podcast, Duane sits down with father, husband, sales executive, speaker, and author Kyle Dean Houston. They speak about being in the throes of addiction, despairing for hope, staring down your own doom, and ultimately persevering through recovery.
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Kyle openly describes trying methamphetamines and quickly spiraling into a needle-using meth user. At rock bottom, Kyle was overcome with depression and tried to overdose, but failed. He talks about spending months in county jail trying to learn to make the right decisions. Making and breaking promises to his family, Kyle eventually realized that he was powerless over his own actions and he couldn’t continue to live that way. Coming to grips with the role that the brain plays in your addiction was crucial during this time.
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The moment that really changed everything was when he realized he could have a purpose for his life. Being alone in jail put Kyle in the position to finally start thinking about what he could actually do to change his life. His relationship with God and the spiritual goes back to his childhood, but in the moments alone in jail, his understanding of the spiritual really opened up. He began to see the full weight of his own ability to take control of his life. It struck him like a hammer, he says. He says that in the jail cell, he never felt so alone.
Episode Link
theaddictedmind.com/100
In transitioning out of prison, Kyle was institutionalized and he was scared to death. He knew that people were aware of his problems, his PTSD, and he felt prison would’ve been better. But only five months later, he met his future-wife, who would go on to be his rock and cornerstone. Kyle credits her for virtually all of his success. That, and his intense drive to accomplish what he sets out to do.


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100: Patchwork Junkie with Kyle Dean Houston

"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it.
We're here to do more than just talk about addiction. 
We want to show you how to heal and recover.
Our talks with experts and people who have beaten addiction give you important insights into how addiction affects the mind and how recovery can happen in many ways. Whether we're looking at new treatment ideas or sharing stories that inspire, "The Addicted Mind Podcast" is all about understanding the complex world of addiction recovery and showing that recovery is possible.
If you or someone you care about is dealing with the challenges of addiction, let "The Addicted Mind Podcast" be your friend and guide. We aim to give you the knowledge you need, share stories that inspire you, and show you that the journey to recovery is worth it.
Subscribe now to be part of a community focused on learning, healing, and changing for the better. Your journey to a healthier mind and life begins right here.

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Mental Health

Discover the transformative journey of overcoming addiction with Cesar Wurm, author of "The Powers of Addiction: Finding Freedom in Acceptance and Recovery." This latest episode delves into Cesar's raw and personal struggle with alcoholism, a battle intensified by the loss of his mother and the pressure of emotional stoicism in his family. 
The story unfolds as he recounts a relapse marked by deception at a go-karting event, highlighting the depths of his secret life. Yet, it's through embracing acceptance that Cesar charts a course toward healing, underlining the profound impact that sharing such deeply personal experiences can have on both the speaker and the listener. 
Cesar's narrative isn't just about the clutches of addiction; it's also a testament to the power of support and the hard-won victories along the road to recovery. He talks openly about the skepticism he initially held towards groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and the daunting nature of lifelong sobriety. However, it was a heartfelt conversation with his wife that ignited a crucial turning point, one that would lead him to accept his reality and begin the journey of honest healing. Tune in as he sheds more light on self-pity's dangers, honesty's healing potential, and the transformative effect of acceptance.

In this episode, you will hear:

The depths of self-deception

Recognizing and breaking generational trauma

Mutual acceptance and courage in recovery

Journey to empathy and recovery

Overcoming fear to share stories



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Supporting Resources:
https://cesarwurm.com
NovusMindfulLife.com
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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280: Conquering Dependency and Cultivating Vulnerability: Cesar Wurm’s Journey Beyond the Bottle

Are you making changes but feeling stuck in your recovery journey? It could be because you're focusing on first-order changes. These are the surface-level adjustments we make – quitting a substance, changing routines – but they don't address the root of the problem.
That's where second-order change comes in. This is about digging deeper into your anxieties, past traumas, and the underlying beliefs that drive addictive behaviors. It's a transformation, not just a tweak.
Think of it like this: first-order change is running on a treadmill – you're moving, but not getting anywhere. Second-order change is taking the exit ramp and finding a new path.  
Second-order change is the key to lasting recovery. So how do you get there? This episode breaks it down and helps you figure out where you might need extra support along the way.  

Download: FIRST-ORDER CHANGE VS. SECOND-ORDER CHANGE
Key Topics


What first-order change is and why it's important early on

Second-order change and how it leads to lasting recovery

Examples of each type of change

How to start that deeper, second-order work

The value of therapy or coaching for this transformation


Key Moments

[00:01:00] – The treadmill trap: Why some changes feel pointless

[00:03:00] – Beyond willpower: What if just stopping isn't enough?

[00:05:00] – Real-world examples to help you identify your type of change

[00:08:00] – When is enough, enough? How to recognize you need deeper work

[00:10:00] – The scary (but worthwhile) path to second-order change

[00:14:00] – "I can see it in them": Signs you've done the deeper work

[00:17:00] – Your action plan: Next steps for leveling up your recovery


Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center
NovusMindfulLife.com
We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind
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TAM+ EP 15: Beyond Quick Fixes: The Deeper Transformation of Second-Order Change

When healing takes center stage, hope is never far behind. Dr. Mark Lasko joins Duane as they step into the conversation space with a heart full of empathy and a wealth of knowledge on the intricate dance of addiction treatment and recovery. Mark’s journey, touched by the struggles of addiction within his own family, has fueled a passion that's evident as we navigate the subject of client-focused care. Mark's insights, derived from his hands-on experience in the criminal justice system, bring to light the deep-seated connection between addiction, family dynamics, and societal impact. He candidly shares how nurturing one person's path to wellness can send waves of healing throughout entire communities – reshaping not only individual lives but the societal fabric as a whole.
In our conversation, we explore the Samaritan Recovery Community's mission, where personal connection and community engagement are the cornerstones of healing. Mark and Duane discuss the importance of creating environments that foster long-term recovery, emphasizing the role of alumni networks and monthly client gatherings. These touchpoints form the heart of a compassionate community-based approach, demonstrating that the path to sobriety is about so much more than abstaining – but about finding one's place in the world and forming meaningful relationships.
In this episode, you will hear:

Client-focused care in addiction treatment

Compassionate community-based recovery approach

Building compassionate communities in recovery

Providing evidence-based care in therapy

Barriers to success for homeless individuals 

Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
Samaritan Recovery Community: https://samctr.org/
NovusMindfulLife.com
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

279: The Ripple Effect of Healing in Community-Based Addiction Treatment with Dr. Mark Lasko

Join hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind as they explore the profound impact of internal dialogue on recovery and mental wellness in this insightful episode of the Addicted Mind Plus. Discover how the words we tell ourselves can either hinder or help our journey toward healing. Learn practical tips on reshaping self-talk to foster resilience, overcome addiction, and enhance overall well-being. Whether you're looking to break free from negative thought patterns or simply seeking a mental boost, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of language in shaping our lives. Tune in to empower your path to wellness, one word at a time.

Key Topics:

The significant role of internal dialogue in recovery

Differences between thoughts and internal monologues

How changing language can alter emotional responses

Common myths about self-talk and how to overcome them

Practical tips for reshaping narrative to support mental health


Key Moments:

[00:01:00] Introduction to the power of language in recovery

[00:02:01] Discussion on internal monologues vs. abstract thoughts

[00:04:00] The influence of internal dialogue on emotional regulation

[00:06:00] Examples of how self-talk can reshape personal narratives

[00:09:00] Addressing myths and misunderstandings about self-talk

[00:12:00] Strategies for changing internal narratives effectively

[00:16:00] Closing thoughts and resources for further learning



Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center
NovusMindfulLife.com
We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind
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TAM+ EP 14: Unlocking Resilience: The Transformative Power of Self-Talk

In this exciting episode of Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive into the fascinating world of the Johari Window, a powerful tool for enhancing self-awareness and understanding in relationships. They explore how this simple yet profound model can illuminate the various aspects of ourselves—what we know, what we don't know, and what others see in us. From discussing how to navigate personal blind spots to the significance of revealing hidden strengths, this episode is packed with insights on improving communication, recovery, and personal growth. Whether you're on a quest for self-discovery or aiming to deepen your connections with others, this episode offers valuable strategies to expand your open area, embracing both the visible and hidden parts of your identity.
Download: The Johari Window Worksheet
Key Topics:

The basics and importance of the Johari Window in self-awareness.

Strategies for exploring and expanding the open area of the Johari Window.

The role of recovery communities in identifying and addressing blind spots.

The impact of self-awareness on personal growth and recovery.

How to safely navigate the hidden and unknown areas of ourselves.

Key Moments:

- [00:00:00] Introduction to the episode and significance of the Johari Window.

- [00:01:34] Explanation of how self-awareness affects decision-making and relationships.

- [00:02:46] The Johari Window as a tool for recovery and growth.

- [00:03:46] Detailed breakdown of each quadrant in the Johari Window.

- [00:07:29] Discussing the hidden area and its impact on personal and relational dynamics.

- [00:11:03] Exploration of the unknown quadrant and its mysteries.

- [00:14:06] Conclusion and resources for applying the Johari Window to one's life.


Follow and Review:
If you haven’t yet, we’d love for you to follow us. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy, please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center
NovusMindfulLife.com
We want to hear from you. Please leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind
Disclaimer
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100: Patchwork Junkie with Kyle Dean Houston

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