This week, we are speaking with Dan Griffin, CEO & Lead Consultant of Griffin Recovery Enterprises. Dan Griffin, M.A., is an internationally recognized author, thought leader, and expert on men’s relationships and masculinity. Dan’s work and life is dedicated to exploring and redefining what it means to be a man in the 21st century. Dan is dedicated to helping men be better men by understanding the impact of the Man Rules® on their lives and finding the success in their personal lives they are striving for in their professional lives. 

 

Griffin’s book, A Man’s Way through Relationships, is the first book written specifically to help men create healthy relationships while navigating the challenges of the “Man Rules,” those ideas men internalize at very young ages about how to be real boys and men. Dan was honored to serve as a Senior Fellow at the world-renowned leader for treating addiction and trauma, The Meadows, from 2015 through 2017. 

Griffin’s professional background includes over two decades in the mental health and addictions field. He is also the author of A Man’s Way through the Twelve Steps, the first trauma-informed book to take a holistic look at men’s sobriety. He co-authored Helping Men Recover, the first comprehensive gender-responsive and trauma-informed curriculum for addiction and mental health professionals. Griffin earned a Master’s degree in Sociology from the University of Kansas where his graduate work was the first qualitative study centered on the social construction of masculinity in the culture of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Dan grew up in the DC area and lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Nancy, and his daughter, Grace, and has been in long-term recovery from addiction since he graduated college in May of 1994. 

 

Topics Discussed:

• What it was like growing up in an alcoholic home 
• Navigating emotions and sensitivity as a young boy into adulthood
• The parallels between sobriety and becoming a man
• Recognizing emotions and accepting our trauma to find true healing
• Being conscious men (and women) to move into authenticity 
• The gift of recovery that never stops giving 

Connect with Dan Griffin:

 

• Website: https://dangriffin.com

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

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/authordangriffin/ 

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/authordgriffin 

 

Additional Resources: 

 

• What Men Would Tell You..If We Weren't Too Busy Watching TV -  https://dangriffin.com/dans-books/

• A Man's Way through Relationships - https://www.amazon.com/Mans-Way-through-Relationships-Paperback/dp/B010EX58I6/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1458234757&sr=1-4&keywords=A+Man’s+Way+through+Relationships%3A+Learning+to+Love+and+Be+Loved

• A Man's Way through the Twelve Steps - https://www.amazon.com/through-Twelve-Steps-Griffin-Paperback/dp/B00ZLWC7CG/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1458236067&sr=1-4&keywords=a+mans+way+through+the+12+steps 

 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

---

About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its compone

This week, we are speaking with Joanne Ketch, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, SAP. Joanne is a woman of many hats, roles, and talents. She is The Recovery Therapist at Chrysalis Counseling in Katy, TX, specializing in high functioning, resourced professionals, 1st Responders and business owners who have (or wonder if they have) a substance use disorder and their families. She is also the Assistant Principal and AP English, Sociology, and Psychology Teacher at a small, private school. Joanne has even made the World Series of Poker final table and recently cashed in at the Women’s World Series of Poker Main Event in 2020. 

 

Joanne is also a long-term recovery advocate and is celebrating 29-years of sober living. She helps others flourish by helping them find and allow their flow/best/mojo and, in the counseling room, find moments to compliment and encourage because so many people have been discouraged and criticized so often by the time they meet with her. Today, she shares her recovery journey, how Positive Psychology impacts our daily lives, and the importance of meeting the needs of recovery patients outside of addiction. 

 

Topics Discussed:

• Dispelling the myth behind High-Functioning Individuals & Substance Use  
• Recognizing the Pain of Substance Use on a physical & mental level 
• Inclusive Pathways of Sobriety to meet the needs of each individual 
• Identifying & addressing Depression outside of Substance Use 
• The Power of Positive Thought-Creating 
• Utilizing Positive Mental Energy to change our current point of view
• How Positive Interventions leads to Self-Acceptance

Connect with Joanne Ketch:

 

• Website: https://joanneketch.com/blog/ 

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

 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

---

About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its components: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement.

Our guest this week plays many roles on and off the big screen. You may recognize his name but you’ll definitely recognize his voice!

 

This week, we are speaking with Keith David, American Actor, Voice Actor and Producer. Keith plays various roles in TV, Film, and even Video Games. His characters include, King in Platoon and Childs in The Thing, General Kimsey in Armageddon, the Flame King in Adventure Time, the Cat in Coraline, and Dr. Kane in Archer, and also voiced Decker in Fallout and Arbiter in Halo 2, among many other roles. 

 

Keith is also a man of “God and Spirit” and recognizes God’s grace and mercy in everyday life. After battling with alcohol addiction, Keith is now 17 years sober and shares with us his recovery journey and how he and his wife are also celebrating 20 years of marriage. He gives much of his sobriety credit to his wife for helping him find recovery and recognizes that addiction recovery is a daily journey. Throughout our conversation, Keith shares his love for acting and how acting is his ministry of choice. Playing various roles of fatherly figures and pastoral figures, Keith shares that he has personally aligned with many of his previous roles and storylines have often spoken to him and his recovery. 

 

Be sure to tune in to this episode of Positive Recovery, M.D. (you won’t want to miss Keith's FAVORITE word!)

 

Topics Discussed:

• How Addiction leads to a Spiritual Disconnect 
• The importance of exercising Principles of Recovery daily 
• Leading others by first taking action of your own Addiction
• Why Alcohol is a “Disease of More” (but comes up short)
• Learning to take ownership over your own life 
• Finding beauty in Sobriety and Divine Creation 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

---

About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its components: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement.

Mindfulness, Gratitude, and Yoga allows us to connect within the Present Moment. Our guest this week helps others find Recovery through tapping into their truest selves. 

 

This week, we are speaking with Jamie Demeris, Positive Recovery - Community Wellness Strategist and Admissions Coordinator. Jamie is a Greek American born and raised in Houston. He grew up in the restaurant business and was educated in the streets of life. 

 

After spending 19 years in the depths of addiction, Jamie soberer up on 12/13/2006. He is a father and co-parent of two beautiful children aged 6 and 8. Jamie is also a certified 200 hour yoga instructor, Admissions Coordinator at PRC  and spends most of his time in self-discovery through many different types of practices. 

 

In our conversation, Jamie shares his recovery journey. From trying marijauna as a teen and struggling with an alcohol and drug addiction, to now being 14 years sober and teaching others how to connect with their bodies through yoga and mindfulness. We also discuss the importance of highlighting our priorities and focus on taking one day at a time.

 

Topics Discussed:

• The Power of Yoga and focusing on the present moment 
• Learning to let go of our thoughts and lean into our bodies
• The basis of transformative work and giving back to others
• Why Self-Awareness, Self-Acceptance, and Self-Love are essential to Recovery
• Sober Living and Positive Recovery as the most fulfilling aspect of Life

Connect with Jamie Demeris:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamie.demeris/ 

 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jgdemeris/ 

 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

---

About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its components: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement.

This week, we are speaking with Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Ricky Byrd (2015 inductee with Joan Jett and The Blackhearts) (and guitarist/singer-songwriter). Having lived through the disease of addiction himself, Byrd has made it his mission to help others as a recovery coach and drug/alcohol counselor, who visits schools, rehab facilities, and detention and detox centers to perform, talk, and lead recovery music groups. 

 

Byrd’s mission is to deliver the message of hope to those recovering from addiction. He expresses the roller coaster of emotions and every day trials of recovery, from hitting rock bottom, to the gratitude of surviving and thriving in a sober life. In fact, he gave away almost 2500 copies of Clean Getaway (2017) at these facilities, so clients could take the message of recovery home with them.

 

In our conversation, Ricky shares his own recovery journey and how he went from being exposed to marijauna and alcohol at the age of 13 to now leading men and women on their personal recovery journeys. One of the biggest lessons Ricky learned early on is the power of listening to other people’s stories and being honest with his own thoughts and feelings. 

 

Topics Discussed:

 

• Recognizing how addiction leads to compulsive, obsessive actions

• The importance of having a Recovery Toolbox and Positive Coping Skills

 

• How community helps us stay accountable in Recovery 
• Meditation as a form of listening and being present in the moment
• Why Recovery is about listening others and being honest with ourselves

Learn More about Ricky Byrd:

• Website: https://rickybyrd.com 

 

• Kayos Productions: https://www.kayosproductions.com/ricky-byrd 

 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

---

About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its components: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement.

What helps you better focus on the present moment? Is it meditation? Breathing exercises? Or deepening your spirituality? Our guest this week shares his recovery journey and how focusing on the present has helped him find a deeper meaning in life.

This week, we are speaking with Erik Howerbush, Founder & Creator of Meditate Awake, an app that helps you “transform your life through meditation, insight, and action”. Erik is a Mindful Life Advocate, Seeker, Way-Shower, Entrepreneur and a 9-5er. Over 11 years of helping others wake up their world and recently launched a mindful living app, Meditate Awake, for everyone to benefit from meditation, insight, and daily action. 

Meditate Awake focuses on the 6 areas of intention, or aspirations, that make up an awake life and are the most commonly sought: Better Sleep, Closer Connection, Deeper Purpose, Mindset, Fitness, and Stress Relief.

In our conversation, Erik shares with us how he came from a volatile home life and masqueraded as who he needed to be growing up, finding identity and validation in sports, to finding alcohol and drugs at the age of 14. As Erik shares how he has always been a “seeker”, finding awe and wonder in the immaterial world, he helps others break old habits, take action, and change their life.  

Topics Discussed:

• Recognizing the “Dark Passenger” off addiction
• The power of accountability in addiction recovery 
• Willingness to let go of who we thought we were 
• Operating with a spirit of service and serving others
• Training the mind and the body without focusing on control
• Anchoring breath as a constant observation of the present moment 

Connect with Erik Howerbush:

• Website: meditateawake.com 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meditate.awake/ 

 

Download the Meditate Awake App on iTunes!https://apps.apple.com/us/app/meditate-awake/id1433328436 

 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

---

About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its components: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement.

“The fear of missing out is what keeps so many of us from ever giving it a solid chance.  That fear is the biggest liar and it wasted so much of my time.” 

 

This week, we are speaking with Tricia Lewis, Creator and Host of Recovery Happy Hour Podcast. For years, Tricia was emotionally and physically addicted to alcohol but was really good at making it look like she didn’t have a problem. Tricia took her last drink in November of 2016 and a life without booze has been so much better than she ever imagined.  

According to Tricia, hearing stories we relate to is what gets and keeps us sober. Tricia believes that you don’t even have to identify as an alcoholic to question your relationship with alcohol. By sharing stories on her podcast, Recovery Happy Hour every Tuesday, her hope is that  you’ll hear these stories and realize that you can choose to live whatever kind of life you want and if alcohol is making your life worse, it’s ok to decide to stop. 

 

In our conversation, we explore how to overcome FOMO through addiction recovery, how to live our best lives, and recognizing the things in life that bring us the most joy. Remember that life doesn't end after you break up with alcohol.  There is life beyond the bottle and it's a life worth living.  

 

Topics Discussed:

• Overcoming FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) and living our best lives
• Being addicted to controlling every aspect of our lives
• Making the decision to choose sober living 
• The importance of accountability throughout recovery
• Reevaluating the way you view addiction without the pressure of being an “addict”
• The bigger issue(s) behind the bottle & recognizing why we drink 

Connect with Tricia Lewis:

• Website: https://www.recoveryhappyhour.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryhappyhour/ 

 

Listen to the Recovery Happy Hour Podcast! - 

https://recoveryhappyhour.libsyn.com 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

---

About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its components: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement.

This week, Julie and I are speaking with Dr. Joe Galati, M.D. about alcohol addiction, liver transplants, and Dr. Galati’s passion for helping his patients find healing and recovery. 

 

A native of Long Island, New York, Dr. Joe Galati was raised in a family where good nutrition and family were ways of life. Today, his practice, Liver Specialists of Texas and the Metabolic Liver Center (Fatty Liver Disease Clinic), is devoted to the care of patients with all facets of liver diseases, obesity, fatty liver, and related disorders. 

 

He received his undergraduate degree at Syracuse University and attended St. George’s University School of Medicine. Following medical school, Dr. Galati was an Intern and Resident in Internal Medicine at State University of New York Health Science Center-Brooklyn (formerly Downstate Medical Center)/Kings County Hospital Center, one of the premier teaching hospitals in the country. He remained an additional year in the department to assume responsibilities as the Chief Medical Resident in the Department of Medicine. He traveled to Omaha Nebraska to perform his gastroenterology and hepatology transplant fellowship at University of Nebraska.

 

Dr. Galati and his family came to Houston and the Texas Medical Center in 1994.

Dr. Galati is a national and international speaker, and founder of Your Health First Education, a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide education and support to the public, raising awareness about liver disease, obesity, alcohol abuse, nutrition, disease screening, and early intervention. 

 

Since 2003, Dr. Galati has created consumer-oriented radio programming on health and wellness, producing and hosting “Your Health First,” a one-hour radio program each weekend, heard on iHeart Radio’s 740 am KTRH. When he’s not practicing medicine, Dr. Galati is an avid photographer and is a board member of Entrepreneur’s Organization, supporting entrepreneurs in all corners of the world.

 

In our conversation, we explore the stigma(s) behind alcoholism and why ethicists believe there is no difference between healing various illnesses. Dr. Galati also shares with us the importance of eating healthy foods that fuel our bodies. 

 

Topics Discussed:

 

• Why believing in yourself is essential to achieving your goals

• Balancing both physical and emotional healing within addiction 

• Ethics around treating patients with various health issues

• The stigma around alcoholism and liver transplants

 

• Recognizing food as fuel for the body 

Connect with Dr. Joe Galati:

• Website: https://drjoegalati.com 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjoegalati 

Learn More About Dr. Galati’s Work:

 

• Eating Yourself Sick (book) https://www.amazon.com/Eating-Yourself-Sick-Obesity-Diabetes/dp/159932914X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1525385765&sr=8-1&keywords=eating+yourself+sick 

• Liver Specialists of Texas https://www.texasliver.com 

 

• Entrepreneurs’ Organization https://hub.eonetwork.org 

 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

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About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its components: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement.

This week, we are talking with Hugo Vrsalovic, Founder of Life is Wonderful, who provides motivational speaking for schools, corporations, and recovery centers. Hugo discusses topics around recovery & addiction, the mystery of life, leadership, and sales. His goal is to empower people through self-awareness.Hugo, however, has met difficult challenges in his life that allows him to relate to people who are dealing with similar struggles. With over 20 years in recovery from gambling and alcohol, along with being in therapy for 7 years, he truly believes that 12-step meetings, therapy, and retreats work.

In our conversation, Hugo shifts the narrative of how we understand addiction recovery today. He believes that our addiction is a gift to be shared with others in their own addiction recovery. Shifting the way we think about addiction allows us to find fellowship with one another, seek medical treatment, and place our faith in God. We also talk about dealing with emotions in a healthy way and why “fake it til’ you make it” is scientifically proven to increase happiness. 

Topics Discussed:

• Getting people to think about the way they view addiction
• Innovative ways to rebrand the steps of recovery
• Recognizing the shift of a Higher Power
• Why fellowship is essential to finding recovery
• How therapy plays an important role in addiction recovery

Learn More About Hugo’s Work:

 

• Life is Wonderful: https://www.lifeiswonderful.love 

 

• DTM Toastmaster: https://www.toastmasters.org/education/distinguished-toastmaster 

 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

---

About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its components: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement.

This week, we are talking with John Cates, MA, LCDC, Founder of Lifeway International, a substance abuse (APG) Alternative Peer Group program serving families across the nation for over 35 years. Recognized as one of the most influential therapists in his field, John is also a recovering heroin addict. Speaking from his own recovery journey, John is an expert at helping to cope, heal, and recover from substance abuse problems. He is world renown as a therapist, author, speaker, and designer of successful schools of both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. 

 

As we discuss the importance of APG’s, we find that peer-related recovery models show a 50% increase in recovery from substance use. Whether an adolescent in High School or a Middle-Aged adult, studies show that individuals are heavily influenced by their peers. Unsurprisingly, when an individual feels safe, secure, and a sense of belonging in a community, this plays an important role in positive intervention. 

 

In our conversation, John also shares his unconventional recovery journey, the incredible love he received from his father during his prison trials, and how recovery has led to him to a life of peace, joy, and freedom. One of those joys is simply playing guitar and writing music, which John has been performing individually and in part of the group, Freeway in the 70’s. Stay tuned to hear a special performance from John himself!

 

Topics Discussed:

• Why Alternative Peer Group (APG) programs are effective
• Understanding the social element of recovery 
• Utilizing Advocacy and Recovery Models 
• The ever-growing commercialization of drugs & alcohol over the years
• How Hollywood contributes to substance use 
• Learning how to shift negative mindsets to positive, growth mindsets

Learn More About John Cates’ Work:

 

• Association of Alternative Peer Group Programs (AAPG): https://www.facebook.com/Association-of-Alternative-Peer-Group-Programs-AAPG-114726079910968/ 

• Lifeway International APG: https://www.facebook.com/lifewayinternationalapg/  

 

 

Connect with Positive Recovery MD Podcast

• Website: https://www.positiverecoverymd.com 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577870242872032 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg

Connect with Positive Recovery Centers Online:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters/

 

Contact Positive Recovery Centers:If you or someone you know needs help, visit the website, or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help.

• Call: 877-476-2743
• Address: 902 West Alabama Street Houston, Texas 77006
• Website: https://positiverecovery.com 
• Services: https://positiverecovery.com/services/ 
• FAQ: https://positiverecovery.com/faq/ 

---

About Positive Recovery MD Podcast:

The Positive Recovery MD podcast is hosted by Dr. Jason Powers, Addiction Medicine Specialist, and creator of Positive Recovery. 

 

This podcast will not only inspire and motivate its listeners, it will provide the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Each week the Positive Recovery MD podcast community will come together to have authentic conversations around addiction, recovery and what matters – growth & progress, not perfection, all while developing positive habits for your life. 

 

To join the community, visit https://www.positiverecoverymd.com to sign up to receive the daily Positive Intervention that we’ll review, as well as gain access to EXCLUSIVE Positive Recovery content available only to Positive Recovery MD listeners.

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, all supporting our mission: that Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  

What is Positive Recovery?Empathy and compassion drive our mission. Positive Recovery uses strengths as a pathway to help others flourish in recovery, at work, and at home. This is our core purpose, our “why.” We creatively apply science in order to improve outcomes. Positive Recovery is not wishful thinking, it is not a magic pill, and it is not self-help. 

 

Positive Recovery is an evidence-based addiction curriculum that links the best of the old with the new, integrating existing effective approaches to treatment with interventions that enhance well-being by cultivating its components: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement.