
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or


From broken beginnings to bold breakthroughs, Amy Darling shares how she hit rock bottom and rose again, louder than ever. Join host Patrick Custer as he sits down with the incredible Amy Darling, a Nashville-based rock and roll front woman, DJ, and model known for her fierce authenticity and electrifying performances.
In this conversation, Amy shares her powerful story of survival, recovery, and self-reinvention. From her early life in the Bay Area, where she faced the challenges of a broken family and bullying, to her tumultuous journey through addiction and the music industry, Amy opens up about the struggles and triumphs that have shaped her. Discover how she navigated the complexities of body image, relationships, and the allure of drugs and alcohol, all while pursuing her passion for music. This episode dives deep into the realities of addiction, the impact of trauma, and the journey toward self-acceptance and healing. Tune in for an inspiring and relatable discussion that highlights the importance of community, understanding, and the power of sharing our stories.
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram: @rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
YouTube: @rootedrecoverystories
Facebook: @rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Instagram: @thepatrickcuster
Tiktok: @thepatrickcuster
YouTube: @thepatrickcuster
Facebook: @thepatrickcuster
Website: https://linktr.ee/patrickcuster
Amy Darling - Guest
Instagram: @amyxdarlingx
YouTube: @amydarlingmusic
Spotify: Amy Darling
__________________
Get Help (addiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website: www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
About Amy Darling: Amy Darling is a Nashville-based singer, DJ, and model whose artistry radiates raw emotion, rock and roll grit, and magnetic stage presence. With a voice that channels both vulnerability and power, she blends vintage soul with modern rebellion captivating audiences through electrifying performances and genre-defying DJ sets. Originally from the Bay Area, Amy's journey through the highs and lows of the music industry has shaped her into a bold and authentic creative force. Her passion for storytelling through sound is deeply informed by personal resilience, giving her performances an unmatched depth and energy. Whether she's fronting a band or commanding a dance floor, Amy creates unforgettable experiences rooted in connection, emotion, and fierce individuality. Her work continues to challenge norms, celebrate self-expression, and inspire others to embrace their own truth.
Music was her lifeline in a world of chaos. Join host Patrick Custer for an intimate conversation with Firerose Cyrus, an Australian-born singer-songwriter whose inspiring journey of resilience, recovery, and reinvention is as powerful as her music.In this heartfelt conversation, Firerose shares her experiences of chasing dreams across the globe while battling a silent storm. From her early days surrounded by classical musicians to discovering her passion for pop music, she opens up about the challenges she faced, including the struggles with addiction and the journey to reclaim her power. This episode is a beautiful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the power of art, sponsors, and religion to heal. Tune in for a story that goes beyond the headlines and dives deep into the heart of resilience.
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram: @rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
YouTube: @rootedrecoverystories
Facebook: @rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Instagram: @thepatrickcuster
Tiktok: @thepatrickcuster
YouTube: @thepatrickcuster
Facebook: @thepatrickcuster
Website: https://linktr.ee/patrickcuster
Firerose Cyrus - Guest
Instagram: @firerose
YouTube: @firerose-cyrus
Spotify: @firerose
Website: www.firerosemusic.com
__________________
Get Help (addiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website: www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
About Firerose: When Firerose Cyrus talks about her lifelong passion for songwriting, she means that she’s had it since the time she could literally talk. Coming home from grade school, she would pen tunes about her day, and felt that music was the meaning of life. The Sydney, Australia-born and raised, Nashville, Tennessee-based artist has always written songs to process her deepest emotions. “I always believed that my purpose on earth was fulfilled by music,” says Firerose, “and helping people up with a song I wrote gives everything so much meaning. I write from a place in my soul that’s unexplainable and I’m incredibly grateful for this gift that allows me to touch people so profoundly.” Applauded by Rolling Stone for her "atmospheric ballads and lilting leads” Firerose is a unique talent and internationally critically acclaimed artist. With her unmistakably pure crystalline voice, Firerose transcends genres and captivates listeners with her deeply meaningful lyrics about the miracles God has performed in her life. Her fearlessly honest songwriting and distinctive melodic style are matched with her powerful personal story of life-saving faith and overcoming addiction. Firerose is an authentic storyteller and her inspirational songs that celebrate rising from the ashes are undeniably uplifting. Firerose's hit “Plans” climbed to No. 16 on both Billboard's Adult Contemporary chart and Mediabase's Adult Contemporary chart in 2023. Firerose has graced the Grand Ole Opry stage many times and performed on national television including “ACM Honors,” “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” “Good Morning America,” "LIVE with Kelly and Ryan," “GMA3” and has been featured in Rolling Stone, Billboard, People Magazine, American Songwriter, Stellar Magazine, Music Row, Entertainment Tonight, Us Weekly, Taste of Country, CNN, Fox News, iHeartRadio, CMT, The Today Show Australia, Today In Nashville and many more.
Taylor Armstrong's life hasn't always been all glitz and glam. Behind reality TV fame lies a story of struggle, survival, and strength. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Taylor Armstrong, a former star of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, as she opens up about her harrowing journey through an abusive marriage and her path to healing.
Taylor shares her experiences of living under the scrutiny of reality TV while battling her own traumas off screen, revealing the stark contrast between the glamorous facade and the painful reality she faced behind closed doors.
Join us as Taylor discusses the red flags she ignored, the impact of emotional and physical abuse, and the moment she realized she had to reclaim her life for herself and her daughter. She reflects on the challenges of navigating relationships, the struggle for self-identity, and the importance of self-forgiveness.In addition, Taylor introduces her new book, The Comeback Queen, which offers a roadmap for anyone looking to overcome trauma and embrace a brighter future. With actionable steps and a supportive community, Taylor's message is one of hope and resilience.Whether you've experienced trauma or are simply seeking inspiration to live your best life, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear Taylor's incredible story of survival and transformation!
LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram: @rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
YouTube: @rootedrecoverystories
Facebook: @rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Instagram: @thepatrickcuster
Tiktok: @thepatrickcuster
YouTube: @thepatrickcuster
Facebook: @thepatrickcuster
Website: https://linktr.ee/patrickcuster
Taylor Armstrong - Guest
Instagram: @taylorarmstrong
Facebook: @officialtaylorarmstrong
X: @TaylorArmstrong
Website: www.taylorarmstrong.com
__________________
Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website: www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
About Taylor Armstrong: Taylor Armstrong is an original cast member of the hit Bravo show, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. But behind the glamorous façade of The Real Housewives, Armstrong had her own personal drama. She hid a very dark secret; her husband, Russell, had been physically, verbally, emotionally and financially abusing her for years. Following the familiar pattern of many domestic violence survivors before her, Armstrong witnessed domestic violence in her home as a young child – the abuse of her mother at the hands of her father. Thankfully, Taylor was able to break the cycle of violence. After six years of abuse with Russell, she found the courage to leave. Tragically, soon after, Russell took his own life. Armstrong and her young daughter, Kennedy, found themselves starting their lives over while the whole world watched. In 2012, Armstrong authored her first book, Hiding from Reality: My Story of Love, Loss and Finding the Courage Within. The autobiographical account of Armstrong’s life and personal experience with domestic violence became a New York Times bestseller. She is preparing to release her latest book "The Comeback Queen" this year.
Struggle Jennings’ journey has been one of trials, transformation, and triumph. In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, we continue our conversation with him as he shares the exciting news about his new single, “Only God Knows” featuring Jelly Roll.Struggle opens up about his battle with addiction, life after prison, and the role faith and community played in his healing. We dive into the struggles of managing anxiety, the power of letting go, and how the darkest moments can lead to the greatest growth. We touch on Sound Sobriety, Struggle's new recovery program, and the other ways he's giving back.This isn’t just a conversation about recovery—it’s about resilience, service, and using past pain to help others. Struggle’s story is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond redemption.
LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram: @rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
YouTube: @rootedrecoverystories
Facebook: @rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Instagram: @thepatrickcuster
Tiktok: @thepatrickcuster
YouTube: @thepatrickcuster
Facebook: @thepatrickcuster
Website: https://linktr.ee/patrickcuster
Struggle Jennings - Guest
Instagram: @iamstruggle
YouTube: @strugglejennings
Tiktok: @strugglejennings
Website: www.strugglejennings.com
__________________
Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website: www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
Production:
Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @TheCastCollective
__________________
About Struggle Jennings: The grandson of Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter has been nothing short of a true Outlaw from a long line of gangsters, outlaws, and rockstars, making his family lineage proud. An RIAA Certified Gold-selling artist for his collab with Jelly Roll on Fall In The Fall, and #1 Billboard Charting artist for "God We Need You Now". Struggle has revolutionized a new style of music, blending Country and rap influences and making ground-breaking country rap styles. Contrary to his family’s upbringing, Struggle and his single mom grew up in low-income housing, and being the black sheep of the family, he fought through the streets of West Nashville and into the studio where he would create the foundation for what has become his contribution to the Jennings family legacy. Struggle's message of strength, determination, and courage in the face of adversity continue to connect and resonate with people around- the -world. By sharing his story with honesty and passion he has developed a large and loyal fanbase who relate not only to his music but also to his journey. Since being released from prison in 2016, where he served a five-year drug-related sentence, Struggle has performed for sold-out crowds across the country and released multiple projects.
Struggle Jennings might have the most fitting name in music. His journey has been anything but easy, and his music reflects every battle he’s fought. In this episode, we explore how he blends country and hip-hop to tell his story. He opens up about losing his father at a young age, growing up in a tough environment, and the struggles that led him down a dark path.Struggle shares his experiences with addiction, incarceration, and the lessons he learned along the way. He talks about the moment he decided to take control of his life and how music became his way of turning pain into purpose. We dive into the importance of accountability, the power of storytelling, and how he’s using his platform to uplift others who feel lost. This isn’t just a conversation about music. It’s about resilience, redemption, and proving that no struggle is too big to overcome. Tune in for an honest and inspiring look at his journey!
LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram: @rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
YouTube: @rootedrecoverystories
Facebook: @rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Instagram: @thepatrickcuster
Tiktok: @thepatrickcuster
YouTube: @thepatrickcuster
Facebook: @thepatrickcuster
Website: https://linktr.ee/patrickcuster
Struggle Jennings - Guest
Instagram: @iamstruggle
YouTube: @strugglejennings
Tiktok: @strugglejennings
Website: www.strugglejennings.com
__________________
Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website: www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
Production:
Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @TheCastCollective
__________________
About Struggle Jennings: The grandson of Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter has been nothing short of a true Outlaw from a long line of gangsters, outlaws, and rockstars, making his family lineage proud. An RIAA Certified Gold-selling artist for his collab with Jelly Roll on Fall In The Fall, and #1 Billboard Charting artist for "God We Need You Now". Struggle has revolutionized a new style of music, blending Country and rap influences and making ground-breaking country rap styles. Contrary to his family’s upbringing, Struggle and his single mom grew up in low-income housing, and being the black sheep of the family, he fought through the streets of West Nashville and into the studio where he would create the foundation for what has become his contribution to the Jennings family legacy. Struggle's message of strength, determination, and courage in the face of adversity continue to connect and resonate with people around- the -world. By sharing his story with honesty and passion he has developed a large and loyal fanbase who relate not only to his music but also to his journey. Since being released from prison in 2016, where he served a five-year drug-related sentence, Struggle has performed for sold-out crowds across the country and released multiple projects.
One secret kept him safe. One truth would leave him with nowhere to go. For Josh Cloud, music wasn’t just a dream—it was his identity. But after American Idol and the contract that followed stripped him of his ability to perform, he lost the only thing that made him feel alive. The silence left space for something else to creep in—fear, isolation, and addiction.In this deeply personal conversation, host @thepatrickcuster sits down with Josh to uncover the messages that shaped his silence—from childhood warnings that threatened his very survival to an industry that made it clear: If they knew who you really were, you’d be spit out and forgotten. He opens up about the impossible ultimatum he faced as a child, the trauma that followed him into adulthood, and the alcohol that became his only escape.But this isn’t just a story about loss. It’s about taking back what was stolen. Josh shares how he fought to reclaim his voice, his identity, and his purpose—and how he’s finally living on his own terms. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt like they had to hide to survive.
LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram: @rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
YouTube: @rootedrecoverystories
Facebook: @rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Instagram: @thepatrickcuster
Tiktok: @thepatrickcuster
YouTube: @thepatrickcuster
Facebook: @thepatrickcuster
Website: https://linktr.ee/patrickcuster
Josh Cloud - Guest
Instagram: @joshcloud
The Big Drag Bus - Josh's Nashville-based comedy show led by dazzling drag queens on wheels!
Instagram: @bigdragbus
YouTube: @bigdragbus
Website: www.bigdragbus.com
__________________
Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website: www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
Production:
Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @TheCastCollective
__________________
About Josh Cloud: Josh Cloud is a man whose life revolved around music. He moved to Nashville to pursue that dream at 19 and later became a finalist on American Idol. In 2021, Josh started a thriving new business called "The Big Drag Bus" in Nashville where he continues to live today.
What if the place that was supposed to feel like home felt more like a prison? In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, Patrick Custer sits down with media strategist, Melissa Bull, who opens up about growing up in a chaotic home shaped by her mother’s struggles with hoarding and mental health. She shares raw, unfiltered memories of navigating a childhood filled with secrecy, perfectionism, and the emotional toll of living in a cluttered, unpredictable environment. Melissa reflects on the pivotal moments that led to her parents’ divorce, the deep sense of isolation she felt, and the role her grandmother played as a rare source of stability and hope. Despite everything, she found a way to break free from the patterns of her past—and she’s here to share how she did it.This conversation is a powerful reminder that your past doesn’t define you, and healing is always possible. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, survival, and the ongoing journey toward recovery.
LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram: @rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
YouTube: @rootedrecoverystories
Facebook: @rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Instagram:@thepatrickcuster
Tiktok: @thepatrickcuster
YouTube: @thepatrickcuster
Facebook: @thepatrickcuster
Website: https://linktr.ee/patrickcuster
Melissa Bull - Guest
Instagram: @melissalovgrenb
Tiktok: @melissalovgrenb
__________________
Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website:www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
Production:
Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)
Email: [email protected]
Instagram:@TheCastCollective
__________________
About Melissa Bull: Melissa Bull is a content strategist from a small town just outside of Rockford, Illinois. Bull attended Morehead State University in Kentucky where she was an active member of their Cheerleading team. Upon graduating in 2014 Melissa Bull continued cheering beyond her college career. Along with her passion for cheer she began pursuing a career in content strategizing where she coaches others on how to develop and plan certain content in order to help meet their business goals. Bull now works for the content house Viralish based in Nashville, Tennessee, where she assists them in creating and marketing their social media content.
Sobriety and music were what saved Alex Hall's life from the grips of addiction. But before he was able to put down the bottle he felt it was something he needed as the catalyst to achieve success as a singer/songwriter. Join host Patrick Custer as he sits down with country music artist Alex Hall to explore his incredible journey through the highs and lows of his music career and his battle with addiction.
In this candid conversation, Alex shares his early passion for music, ignited by the timeless tunes of Elvis Presley, and how he began performing at a young age. He opens up about the challenges he faced growing up in a household affected by alcoholism and how those experiences shaped his relationship with music and substance use.As Alex reflects on his journey towards sobriety, he discusses the pivotal moments that led him to seek help and the transformative power of music in his healing process.Tune in to hear Alex's inspiring story of resilience, creativity, and the importance of vulnerability in both life and art. Whether you're a fan of country music or someone navigating your own recovery journey, this episode is filled with insights and encouragement.
LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram: @rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
YouTube: @rootedrecoverystories
Facebook: @rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Instagram:@thepatrickcuster
Tiktok: @thepatrickcuster
YouTube: @thepatrickcuster
Facebook: @thepatrickcuster
Website: https://linktr.ee/patrickcuster
Alex Hall - Guest
Instagram: @musicbyalexhall
Tiktok: @musicbyalexhall
YouTube: @alexhall
Facebook: @musicbyalexhall
Website: www.musicbyalexhall.com
__________________
Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website:www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
Production:
Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)
Email: [email protected]
Instagram:@TheCastCollective
Music became Madeline Finn’s path to healing, but it wasn’t always that way. Before becoming a talented songwriter, singer, bassist, and producer, Madeline struggled with addiction, mental health challenges, and the journey of self-discovery. In this episode, she discusses her upcoming album Parts Work, which tackles themes of healing, addiction, and mental health through the lens of those around her (including her dog).Madeline reflects on growing up as a closeted queer kid in a conservative environment, how music became her emotional refuge, and her ongoing journey toward embracing her true self. The conversation also touches on the impact of societal pressures on body image, the role of meditation in her healing process, and the transformative power of connection.This episode is a powerful testament to resilience, personal growth, and the courage to live authentically. For anyone who has ever struggled with identity or self-acceptance, Madeline’s story will hit close to home.
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram:@rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok:@patrickcusterproject
YouTube:@rootedrecoverystories
Facebook:@rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Insta:@patrick_custer
Tiktok:@patrickcusterproject
Madeline Finn - Guest
Insta: @madelinefinnmusic
Tiktok: @madelinefinnmusic
__________________
Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website:www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
Production:
Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)
Email: [email protected]
Instagram:@TheCastCollective
Songwriting saved Fimone’s life, but before music became the outlet for her that it is today, she struggled with addiction, trauma, and the overwhelming journey of self-acceptance. In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, Fimone opens up about her path from growing up in rural Minnesota to navigating the complexities of identity, addiction, and ultimately, healing.
She shares how unhealthy relationships, a near-death experience, family, and the pressures of being an independent artist shaped her, and how music became her way of processing emotions she didn’t know how to express. We dive into the highs and lows of her career, the reality of sobriety, and the powerful lessons she’s learned along the way.
Fimone’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and the courage to embrace authenticity. If you've ever struggled with self-acceptance, addiction, or finding your voice, this episode is for you.
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!
__________________
About Fimone:
__________________
Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe:
Instagram: @rootedrecoverystories
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
YouTube: @rootedrecoverystories
Facebook: @rootedrecoverystories
Website: www.rootedrecoverystories.com
__________________
Cast:
Patrick Custer - Host
Insta: @patrick_custer
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
Fimone - Guest
Insta: @therealfimone
Tiktok: @therealfimone
YouTube: @therealfimone
__________________
Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):
Promises Behavioral Health
Call: (888) 648-4098
Website: www.promises.com
Instagram: @promises_bh
__________________
Production:
Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @TheCastCollective
From the publisher's feed

1,060 Listeners