Real Recovery Talk

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In this episode, we dive into the subtle but dangerous ways people sabotage their recovery by trying to find loopholes—justifying behaviors, bending the rules, or searching for "safe" ways to still get high without calling it a relapse.

We talk about what it looks like when someone isn't truly solid in their sobriety, and how setting unrealistic expectations for themselves—like needing to be perfectly healed or have everything figured out—can set them up for disappointment and, ultimately, relapse.

We also discuss the topic of hidden reservations—those quiet little "what ifs" in the back of someone's mind. "If it gets too hard, I can always use." Often, these reservations aren't obvious to the people around them, but they're dangerous and real.

Finally, we break down why it's so important to build a strong foundation in early sobriety, and how having a clear reason—and desire—to stay sober is what truly makes the difference. If you've ever struggled with being half-in or noticed someone you care about slipping without fully falling, this episode is for you.

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In this episode, we're joined by Jared, who shares a raw and honest look at what it really took for him to get clean and sober. Jared opens up about the darkest parts of his addiction—the chaos, the desperation, and the extreme lengths he would go to just to get his next fix. But he didn't stay stuck there.

Jared walks us through the turning point in his life, what finally pushed him to seek help, and how his recovery has transformed not just his sobriety, but his outlook on life. This is a powerful conversation about what happens when you hit bottom—and what's possible when you decide you're done digging.

If you're looking for hope, truth, and a reminder that recovery is possible no matter how far gone you feel, this episode is for you.

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In this episode, we talk directly to parents and loved ones who are sending their adult child off to treatment. It's one of the hardest things to do—trusting someone else with your child's recovery. But as tough as it is, learning when to lean in and when to step back can make all the difference.

We dive into how much involvement is actually helpful, and where well-meaning actions can cross into being overly controlling. We also cover the common pitfalls parents face during this process—like micromanaging treatment or trying to emotionally buffer every consequence.

We explain why it's so important to let the professionals do what they're trained to do, while still staying supportive in a healthy, balanced way. If you've ever struggled with how to support your loved one without getting in the way of their recovery, this episode is for you.

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SOBERLINK: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

In this episode, I sit down with Ben and Eric to talk about one of the most powerful—and often misunderstood—parts of getting clean and sober: the amends process. We break down why making amends is such a crucial part of recovery, how it helps us repair the damage we've done, and what it actually looks like when done the right way.

But we also talk about the flip side—why making amends too early can do more harm than good. A lot of people want to rush into it with two weeks sober, thinking it'll fix everything, but the truth is, timing matters. There's a reason the amends process comes after working the previous steps.

Whether you're new to recovery or have been walking this path for a while, this episode is full of real insight on what to do—and what not to do—when it comes to repairing relationships and moving forward in your sobriety.

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In this episode, we reconnect with Brian, who first joined us back on episode 361 while he was enrolled in our treatment program. Today, Brian is 14 months sober and has since transitioned back home to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

He shares in detail what that transition was like—the challenges he faced, the emotional and environmental hurdles he had to overcome, and what he did to stay grounded in his recovery. Brian opens up about the habits, mindset shifts, and support systems that have helped him maintain sobriety over the past year.

This episode is full of real talk about life after treatment and what it takes to keep going when the structure of treatment is no longer there. If you're wondering what long-term recovery looks like after the program ends, this is one you don't want to miss.

Here is the book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/1648483976?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_6FBWH79TGE0EW2XYVVBX&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_6FBWH79TGE0EW2XYVVBX&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_6FBWH79TGE0EW2XYVVBX&bestFormat=true

Study: https://www.einpresswire.com/article/789115115/dr-frederic-luskin-and-lyndon-harris-launch-the-forgive-for-good-recovery-workbook-available-now

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In this episode, we explore a topic that holds incredible weight in recovery—forgiveness. We're joined by two guests who've done extensive research on how forgiveness impacts not just our emotional health, but our overall well-being, especially in sobriety. We dive into the science behind forgiveness—how holding onto resentment, guilt, and shame can keep us stuck, and how choosing to forgive (ourselves and others) can actually lead to measurable improvements in mental, physical, and spiritual health.

Our guests share real-life examples and research-backed insights that show how forgiveness plays a critical role in long-term recovery. Whether you're early in your sobriety or years into it, this episode offers tools and perspective to help you let go of what's been holding you back—so you can truly move forward.

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One of the biggest things that keeps recovering addicts and alcoholics stuck in the cycle of relapse and self-destruction is victim mentality. It's that mindset of "Life is out to get me," "No one understands what I've been through," or "I can't succeed because of my past." In this episode, we're digging deep into: What victim mentality looks like in recovery – the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways it creeps in.

Why this mindset is dangerous – how it leads to resentment, isolation, and relapse. How to shift from self-pity to accountability – practical steps to take control of your sobriety. Why service work and gratitude are the ultimate antidotes to victim thinking. We also discuss how family members, sponsors, and recovery communities can help someone recognize when they're stuck in a victim mindset—without enabling their excuses.

At the end of the day, your recovery is YOUR responsibility. No one is coming to save you, but the good news is—you don't need saving. You just need to take action. If you're ready to move from blaming to thriving, this episode is for you!

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Relapse doesn't happen overnight—it starts long before someone picks up a drink or a drug. In this episode, we're breaking down the three biggest warning signs of relapse so you can recognize them early and take action before things spiral out of control.

We will cover:

Emotional relapse – When someone starts isolating, bottling up emotions, and neglecting self-care.

Mental relapse – The dangerous inner battle of cravings, romanticizing the past, and rationalizing use.

Behavioral relapse – The shift in actions, avoiding accountability, and making reckless choices.

Whether you're in recovery or supporting a loved one, knowing these warning signs could be the difference between staying sober and falling back into addiction. Tune in to learn how to catch relapse before it happens and what steps you can take right now to prevent it.

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On this episode, we sit down with Ian Fee, who shares his powerful story of getting sober and what ultimately led him to make the change seven years ago. But Ian's path to sobriety wasn't the traditional route—he opens up about the unconventional way he got sober and how it shaped his journey in recovery.

We dive into what's worked for him, the challenges he's faced, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Whether you're new to sobriety or have been on this journey for a while, Ian's story is proof that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to getting clean—but there is always hope. Tune in for an inspiring conversation!

Andrews Music!

https://andrewace.irmbooking.com/home

https://open.spotify.com/track/7hoRmf17o6MjKF0hQePXIP?si=15b9606ca7f94709

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On this episode, we sit down with Andrew "Ace" Greenspan, who opens up about his sobriety journey over the past nine months and what ultimately led him to make this life-changing decision. Diagnosed with autism at 18, Andrew shares how that impacted his addiction and the unique challenges he faced along the way.

He also talks in detail about the serious health consequences he suffered due to his substance use and how he's working to rebuild his life. But what truly stands out in Andrew's story is his deep connection to music—he explains how it has shaped his recovery and how he's using his musical talents to inspire and impact the recovery community.

This is a powerful conversation about resilience, self-discovery, and the role that creativity plays in healing. Don't miss it!