Positive Recovery MD

In this conversation, host Julie DeNofa sits down with Kathy Posey, Paige Butler, and Kim Robbins, three inspiring women serving on the Montgomery County Overdose Prevention Endeavor Board (M-COPE)

Kathy and Kim, Co-Founders of M-COPE, share their personal stories of losing a child to addiction and how, after four moms met through the GRASP grief group ( Grief Recovery After Substance Passing) after losing their children to accidental overdose, they realized the need for spreading awareness around the disease of addiction.

Paige also shares her journey through a different perspective of loving a child who is now in recovery from substance use disorder. With their stories, Kathy, Paige, and Kim are now turning their pain into purpose in helping other families heal.

The mission at M-COPE is to collaborate with individuals, communities, schools, and organizations to raise awareness about substance use disorder and the alarming rise in overdose and drug-related deaths in Montgomery County and surrounding areas. Their efforts are grounded in four key pillars: education, awareness, prevention, and remembrance.

Through this approach, they shine a light on the growing drug crisis, work to end the stigma surrounding substance use, and advocate for those currently in need of support as well as for those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Topics Discussed:

• Advice for parents and families learning to navigate grief after overdose loss

• The importance of remembering loved ones beyond their addiction

• Recognizing that everyone grieves differently and giving others more grace

• Understanding emotional triggers and grief waves after loss

• Why volunteer-driven organizations play a critical role in community recovery

• How overdose awareness and prevention efforts are helping communities

—

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Purpose From Pain - Introduction to MCOPE

03:33 Meet Kathy Posey, Kim Robbins, and Paige Bulter

08:04 What M-Cope is and the Four Pillars: Awareness, Prevention, Education, and Rememberance

11:06 Volunteering, Community Partners, and Supporting Newly Bereaved

15:39 Grief Advice For Families: Connection, Caregiving, Healing, and Support

23:10 Recognizing Grief Waves and Triggers and Finding Joy Again

28:47 Honoring Loved Ones Who Lost Their Lives to Addiction

30:39 The Hope of Recovery

33:52 M-COPE Outreach through Blessing Bags, Narcan Outreach, Scholarships And Community Impact

39:11 Recovery Community Resources

—

Connect with M-Cope online:

• Website: https://mcope.org/

• Scholarship: https://mcope.org/scholarship/

• Volunteer Opportunities: https://mcope.org/support/#volunteer

• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mocope/?ref=share&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=SDyLMs2NFChqDsne&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2Fg%2F1DCtwm4WSp%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr

—

Connect with PRC on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

About Positive Recovery Centers:

Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

Dr. Andrew Krieger, DSW, MBA, LCSW-S, LCDC, is a private practice psychotherapist with extensive experience in direct practice social work, clinical program design and development, addiction treatment, and group psychotherapy. He received his Doctor of Social Work from the University of Southern California and holds both a Master of Clinical Social Work and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston.

Over the past 20 years, Dr. Krieger has worked with individuals and families as a private practice and group psychotherapist, specializing in addictive disorders, family therapy, group psychotherapy, and process addictions. He's also held clinical positions at some of the leading addiction treatment programs in Texas.

As Chief Executive Officer of Contemporary Medicine Associates (CMA) — the primary practice of Dr. Bo Allaire and Dr. Andrew Krieger — he leads a team specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders. CMA also provides third-party medical services for psychiatric and addiction treatment facilities, as well as clinical and business consulting services for mental health providers.

Originally founded over 20 years ago by Dr. Eugene Degner, one of the first board-certified addiction medicine doctors in Texas and a pioneer in the medical treatment of alcohol and drug addiction, CMA continues to honor Dr. Degner's legacy through compassionate, expert care.

Today, their doctors, nurses, and mental health professionals serve patients and families at every stage of addiction and recovery — providing a caring, non-judgmental environment where healing can truly begin. They also offer comprehensive support for individuals with mental health conditions such as depression, trauma, and anxiety.

In this conversation, Dr. Jason Powers and Dr. Andrew Krieger discuss the different phases of recovery, the science behind post-acute withdrawal syndrome, and the meaning of emotional sobriety. Together, they explore how long-term recovery is less about counting the years and more about integrity, emotional growth, and learning to live a life that's genuinely fulfilling.

Topics Discussed:

• Defining Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

• The difference between co-occurring disorders & substance use disorder

• Breaking down emotional sobriety into 3 main categories

• Understanding the phases of recovery and personal growth

• How perspective and integrity define Long-Term Sobriety, not just time

• Finding fulfillment beyond survival in recovery

—

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD

01:09 Meet Our Guest: Andrew Krieger

01:40 Andrew's Journey to Sobriety

03:45 Career Transition and Professional Growth

06:36 Phases of Recovery

09:57 Understanding Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome & Co-Occurring Disorders

15:48 Emotional Sobriety Explained

20:00 Why Length of Abstinence Doesn't Equate to Emotional Maturity

21:40 Personal Stories in Early Recovery

23:55 The Importance of Supportive Relationships and Accountability

27:55 Finding a Balance in Sobriety and New Experiences in Recovery

31:58 Reflections on Personal Journey and Finding Peace

—

Connect with Dr. Andrew Krieger:

• Website: www.cmamed.com

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-krieger-6864745

—

Connect with PRC on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

About Positive Recovery Centers:

Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

There's something about music that cuts deeper than words alone. A single lyric, a familiar melody, or even the rhythm of a beat can stir memories we thought were long forgotten and awaken parts of ourselves we may have buried. It reminds us of who we were before the chaos, before the pain, before substances clouded our vision.

Pursuing our favorite hobbies before substance use can be a lifeline back to our core, a way of reclaiming the truest version of ourselves. Listen in as our guest this week shares how he turned his lifelong passion into purpose and found a way back home to himself.

Skyler Ray was born on November 28, 1990, in San Jose, California. He grew up in foster homes and spent multiple years homeless—going from being locked up to sleeping on the sidewalks of downtown Portland.

His music is deeply rooted in his life experiences, including addiction, incarceration, and homelessness. He is a firm believer in spreading hope and giving back to the community he once helped destroy.

Since being released from prison on November 30, 2018, Skyler has refocused on his music and is determined to share his message with the world. He continues to live in Portland, Oregon, and remains clean and sober.

In this conversation, Jamie Demeris and Skyler Ray discuss what it really takes to rebuild a life after addiction. Together, they explore the mindset shifts that turn relapse into resilience, why consistency and small steps matter more than giant leaps, and how reconnecting with your passions can anchor you in sobriety.

Skyler shares how music became both his therapy and his message, and why vulnerability and self-respect are the foundation of lasting recovery. Whether you're in recovery, supporting a loved one, or just searching for hope, this conversation will remind you that transformation is always possible.

Topics Discussed:

• The importance of continuously working on yourself

• Why relapse isn't a step back and how you can stand up stronger

• Pursuing your passions and who you are at your core in sobriety

• Why small, consistent steps make the most impact

• Reconnecting with your why & remembering who you were before substances

• Learning to love and respect yourself

—

CHAPTERS:

​​0:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD

01:10 Meet Skylar Ray: From Addiction to Recovery

02:16 Skylar's Battle with Addiction

03:56 Turning Point: Embracing Music and Sobriety

12:50 The Road to Recovery Tour

19:35 Overcoming Disbelief and Embracing Change

22:54 Climbing the Corporate Ladder

23:43 A Humbling Demotion

24:17 Prison Reflections and Personal Growth

26:22 Musical Journey and Personal Transformation

29:14 The Power of Sound and Recovery

33:23 Chasing Dreams and Overcoming Challenges

40:33 Tour Dates and Final Thoughts

—

Connect with Skyler Ray:

• Road to Recovery Tour: https://www.officialskylerray.com/road-to-recovery-tour

• Website: www.officialskylerray.com

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealSkylerRay

—

Connect with PRC on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

About Positive Recovery Centers

Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

It's not every day you get to be a fly on the wall for a heart-to-heart between a father and his children, but that's exactly what this week's episode of Positive Recovery MD offers. In a touching and transparent Father's Day special, host Jamie Demeris invites his children, Lauren and Dean, into the studio for a rare and meaningful exchange that spans generations, emotions, and lived experiences.

As the three of them share laughs, swap stories, and revisit pivotal memories, what unfolds is a raw and beautiful reflection on the power of authenticity, the scars and strength born of addiction, and the unshakable bonds of family.

Whether it's Dean sharing the lessons that shaped him or Lauren opening up about how recovery has touched her worldview, this episode is filled with moments that will tug at your heart and leave you thinking about your own relationships.

If you're looking for inspiration, connection, or just a reminder of how recovery ripples through generations in the most powerful ways, this one's for you.

Topics Discussed:

• Healing families, building bridges, and creating space for healing

• How emotional honesty in children reflects the generational impact of recovery

• The value of leaning into diversity, discomfort, and finding your people

• Emotional intelligence in kids: How vulnerability becomes a superpower
• Understanding the choice between living in regret or teachable moments

--- CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:09 A Personal Episode with Family

02:59 Meet the Kids: Lauren and Dean

04:16 Memorable Moments and Friendships

10:42 Life Lessons and Reflections

15:53 Yoga and Creating Habits

16:51 Memorable Birthdays and Funny Moments

17:33 The Question Game Begins

17:54 School Experiences and Diversity

20:06 Personal Growth and Confrontation

21:47 Reflecting on Work and Life

24:48 Deep Questions and Emotional Reflections

29:42 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

--- Connect with PRC on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

About Positive Recovery Centers:

Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum combines the best of the past with the present, supporting our mission: Recovery is most effectively pursued when meaningful, intentional, and positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience, rather than negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

In this special BONUS Mother's Day episode of Positive Recovery MD, host Julie DeNofa honors moms' unwavering love and resilience in navigating their children's recovery journeys. Through heartfelt stories from mothers in the Positive Recovery community, Julie shares moments of fear, courage, and transformation that come with loving someone through addiction.

Moms like Millie, Sandy, Carol, Kim, and an anonymous mother offer vulnerable reflections on letting go, setting boundaries, and never losing hope. These real-life experiences highlight the shared pain of addiction and the shared healing that recovery brings to families.

This episode is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, healing is ongoing, and love plays a vital role in the journey. With insights on support, honesty, and self-care, this conversation offers comfort and connection for anyone walking alongside a loved one in recovery.

Topics Discussed:

• Understanding addiction as a family disease, not a moral failure

• Setting boundaries as an extension of love with structure, not rejection

• Why support systems are vital for long-term healing

• Holding onto the grace in the process of recovery that defies logic

• A mother's strength is hope in the face of heartbreak

• Why mothers should prioritize self-care and seek their own support

• Staying informed, knowing the signs of addiction, and when/how to implement tools like Narcan

—

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Positive Recovery MD

00:59 Mother's Day Reflections

03:21 Millie and Colleen: A Mother's Journey

08:35 Sandy and Chris: A Tale of Resilience

11:56 Carol and Steven: Overcoming Together

19:11 Kim's Perspective: Dual Recoveries

26:02 Anonymous Mom: Holding Onto Hope

27:57 A Heartfelt Letter from an Anonymous Alumni

31:18 Tips for Moms: Supporting Children in Recovery

36:01 Final Thoughts and Resources

--- Connect with PRC on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

About Positive Recovery Centers:

Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

In this episode of Positive Recovery MD, host Jamie Demeris sits down with Greg Walker, a husband, father, entrepreneur, and recovery advocate, who shares his extraordinary journey from addiction to freedom. With refreshing honesty, Greg opens up about the power of vulnerability, the strength found in community, and the peace he discovered through his relationship with God.

Greg's story is one of second chances and spiritual transformation. From running a successful business to quietly battling a 21-year addiction to opiates and heroin, Greg sheds the layers of shame and isolation that once kept him trapped. What finally changed everything? A commitment to authenticity, a newfound faith, and a desire to walk alongside other men through their own healing.

Whether you're navigating recovery yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that healing is possible, peace is within reach, and you are never alone. Vulnerability isn't weakness; it's the key to building a life where you can truly flourish.

Topics Discussed:

• Why vulnerability is the foundation for true connection and lasting recovery

• The myth of perfection—and how showing up messy is often the bravest step

• The spiritual turning point that reshaped Greg's life, marriage, and mission

• How relapse, setbacks, and shame don't have to define your story

• The problem with isolation: Why our secrets keep us sick

• Defining meaning and purpose in your life that's greater than you

—

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD

01:22 Meet Greg Walker: A Journey of Vulnerability

02:08 The Power of Vulnerability in Recovery

03:27 Greg's Personal Struggles and Triumphs

09:20 Finding Faith and Community

11:21 Overcoming Challenges and Helping Others

19:59 Greg's Mission and Current Endeavors

21:22 A Betrayal and a Test of Faith

22:02 Finding Peace Amidst Financial Struggles

22:16 Passion for Recovery and Helping Others

22:48 The Power of Vulnerability and Accountability

24:51 The Role of Community in Recovery

27:23 Gratitude and Its Impact on Wellbeing

29:29 Manifestation and Faith

31:39 The Journey of Recovery and Mentorship

35:15 Concluding Thoughts and Final Messages

--- Connect with PRC on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

About Positive Recovery Centers:

Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

Andrew Soren is the founder and CEO of Eudaimonic by Design, an advisory firm that partners with organizations worldwide to make work a place where people can bring their best to do good. He is a leadership coach, facilitator, and expert in applied positive psychology.

Andrew currently helps lead the International Positive Psychology Association and has been part of the instructional team in the University of Pennsylvania's Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) program for 12 years. He hosts his own podcast called Meaningful Work Matters.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Jamie, Julie, and Andrew explore the complexities of meaningful work and its impact on individuals and organizations. Grounded in the ancient Greek concept of eudaimonia, or human flourishing, they discuss how aligning work with values and purpose can lead to both personal fulfillment and professional growth. They also examine the emotional toll of deeply meaningful yet often underfunded roles—such as those in recovery and caregiving—and the challenges that come with sustaining motivation and well-being in these spaces.

Drawing on his extensive experience in organizational wellbeing and positive leadership, Andrew offers insight into the balance required to make meaningful work sustainable. The group highlights the importance of cultivating both individual resilience and supportive workplace cultures, emphasizing that change must happen on both personal and organizational levels. They also explore strategies for preventing burnout, maintaining boundaries, and fostering environments where people feel empowered to thrive

Jamie, Julie, and Andrew also provide actionable takeaways for integrating meaning and purpose into professional settings and everyday life. From the value of practical wisdom to the need for balanced living, this conversation is a powerful reminder that meaningful work isn't just about what we do—but how and why we do it.

Topics Discussed:

• Cultivating meaning within your work and life

• Discovering your purpose, significance, and congruence

• Compassion & connection with oneself to build strong relationships with others

• Why "voice before choice" is key to designing a healthier, more human-centered system

• Finding a balance between big, long-term goals, and small, daily, easily-achievable goals

—

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Meaningful Work

00:11 Welcome to Positive Recovery MD

01:10 Introducing Andrew Soren

03:13 The Dark Side of Meaningful Work

04:03 Exploring the Concept of Meaning

08:42 Challenges in Meaningful Professions

12:56 Organizational and Individual Solutions

21:32 Creating Shared Understanding in Organizations

24:35 Voice and Choice in Positive Recovery

25:57 The What If Statement: Becoming Your Most Onic Self

26:31 Aristotle's Eudaimonia and Modern Society

28:56 Balancing Work, Wellbeing, and Practical Wisdom

36:07 The Importance of Meaning in Life and Work

38:20 Maslow's Hierarchy and the Sailboat Metaphor

40:16 Struggles and Solutions in Recovery

43:35 Conclusion and Community Connection

—

Connect with Andrew Soren on Social:

• Website: https://www.eudaimonicbydesign.com/

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/andrewsoren

• Podcast: https://www.eudaimonicbydesign.com/podcast

—

Connect with PRC on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

About Positive Recovery Centers:

Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

Cassandra Herman, LCDC, is a Substance Use Counselor at Positive Recovery whose journey into this field is as inspiring as it is personal. Cassandra's path has taken her from the outdoors of Michigan to radio broadcasting, living abroad and in Shanghai, running in 13 half marathons, and ultimately to the world of addiction recovery.

Her deep commitment to faith, family, and personal growth has shaped her perspective, not just as a mother who walked alongside a child struggling with addiction but as a professional who now helps others navigate their own path to healing.

In this episode, host Jamie Demeris sits down with Cassandra to explore the layers of strength and purpose that define her story—the endurance of a marathon runner, the unwavering love of a mother, the clarity of a morning mindset, and the deep belief in faith and positive psychology as tools for transformation.

Together, they dive into what resilience really looks like in daily life, how small habits and intentional movement can spark lasting change, and the ways families can support loved ones through addiction without losing connection. This conversation is a powerful reminder that recovery isn't just about surviving—it's about creating a life where you can truly flourish!

Topics Discussed:

• Focusing on what you gain rather than what you give up

• Shifting from a victim mindset to an empowered mindset

• How agency and positive daily habits lead to long-term recovery

• Focusing on character strengths and recognizing that joy is internal

• The difference between resilience and post-traumatic growth

• How connection builds the foundation for long-term change

---

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD

01:11 Meet Cassandra Herman: A Journey of Resilience

03:27 Cassandra's Radio Broadcasting Experience

05:34 The Power of Morning Routines

10:15 Cassandra's Path to Recovery Counseling

17:30 The Importance of Choice in Recovery

28:55 Focusing on Positivity in Recovery

29:35 The Role of Faith and Habit in Recovery

31:21 Building a Firm Foundation in Early Recovery

32:25 The Importance of Community and Long-Term Growth

35:39 Mindset and Physical Challenges

41:06 Living Abroad: Experiences in Shanghai

44:32 Navigating Family Challenges and Personal Growth

47:30 Reflections on Recovery and Life's Purpose

53:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

---

Connect with PRC on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

About Positive Recovery Centers:

Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

Grif is a coach, speaker, mentor, and lifelong transformation student dedicated to inspiring mindset shifts and personal growth. With a career spanning over 35 years as an entrepreneur and technology executive, he has built and led high-performing teams while mentoring business leaders to reach their full potential.

Beyond his success in entertainment technology, Grif has been deeply involved in sober coaching, family recovery, relationship work, lay spiritual counseling, and grief facilitation for families who have lost a child. His passion for human development is rooted in a lifelong study of the human sciences, including a completed psychology major at the University of Texas.

Guided by the belief that true growth comes from adversity, Grif resonates deeply with Boris Pasternak's words: "I don't like people who have never fallen or stumbled. Their virtue is lifeless, and it isn't of much value. Life hasn't revealed its beauty to them."

With extensive experience coaching and supporting individuals—from executives to those navigating addiction recovery—Grif brings a unique blend of wisdom, humility, and gratitude to his work. Whether guiding professionals toward leadership growth or helping individuals reclaim their lives, he remains committed to fostering transformation at every level.

Topics Discussed:

• Beyond sobriety, embracing recovery as a beautiful, endless journey

• Why community matters in finding healing and connection

• Humility is something you seek out—or it finds you

• Why recovery is more than abstinence; it's a spiritual fitness

• Reclaiming the power of choice in mind, body, and spirit

• Tapping into the mind-body connection through breathwork and movement

• Positioning yourself- mind, body, & spirit- to find the real you

Connect with Grif Palmer on Social:

• Coaching Website: www.primecoach54.com

• Coaching Services: https://calendly.com/primecoach54/30

• Coaching FB: https://www.facebook.com/primecoach54/

• Coaching IG: https://www.instagram.com/primecoach54/

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grifpalmer/

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/jupiterbreathwork/

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/ayear2live/

• Website: https://www.sweetsoundsations.com/

Connect with PRC on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

About Positive Recovery Centers:

Positive Recovery Centers is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

Tom's journey has been anything but conventional. Having spent decades in prison, he found profound wisdom and resilience in the face of adversity. His experiences have shaped his perspective on redemption, trust, and the power of human connection. A devoted member of the recovery community, Tom attends AA meetings almost daily and remains deeply engaged in the principles of service and self-discovery.

Born and raised in Houston, Tom Dodson has dedicated his life to personal transformation and the pursuit of deeper connection. After getting sober in 1993, he reestablished a daily meditation practice that has remained a cornerstone of his recovery and spiritual growth. With decades of experience in substance use disorder treatment, Tom holds an active Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) credential and continues to guide and support others on their paths to recovery.

Beyond his work in recovery, Tom is passionate about live music and nature. He finds joy in the simple, unfiltered moments that life has to offer. His story is one of perseverance, growth, and the undeniable strength of the human spirit.

Topics Discussed:

• Sobriety: the greatest act of self-love

• Shifting our energy and emotion to live in amends

• Redemption and resilience: returning back to love and connection

• How recovery grants us permission to try something new

• The ripple effect of aligning with your most authentic self

Connect with us on Social:

• IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters

• FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters

• TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter

• LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters

• YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter

Learn more about the Human Kindness Foundation: https://www.humankindness.org/

About Positive Recovery Centers:

Positive Recovery Centers is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.

Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.

If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!

• Call: 877-476-2743

• Website: https://positiverecovery.com

• Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/