Brian McGrath, founder of Optimal Recovery Coaching Associates, shares his journey of addiction and recovery, stressing the need for new coping skills and a supportive community. He explains how coaching empowers individuals, focusing on positive coaching and healthy boundaries. McGrath discusses harm reduction versus abstinence, the impact of technology on recovery, and addressing homelessness and stigma. The conversation emphasizes coping skills, education, and balance in recovery coaching, highlighting the value of connection and transformation.

Key Takeaways:

Visit Optimal Recovery Coaching’s website.

To work with me visit Second Nature Recovery Coaching

Instagram @secondnature.coach

This conversation explores the journey of Kim Shingler and her husband as they navigate sobriety and support their brother-in-law's recovery from a life-threatening overdose. Kim shares the challenges they faced during this time and the decision-making process they went through. The story highlights the power of one decision and the importance of showing up for loved ones in their darkest moments. It also emphasizes the need for support and connection for families dealing with addiction. Ultimately, the journey of sobriety and supporting others is a transformative experience that brings hope, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the value of life. Throughout the conversation Kim emphasizes the importance of showing up and making sacrifices for loved ones in need. Kim discusses the challenges of understanding addiction and the need for empathy and support. She highlights the power of sharing personal stories and experiences to inspire and help others. Kim also talks about finding purpose and giving back to the community. She encourages individuals to embrace vulnerability and make positive choices in their lives.

This episode contains talk of alcohol, drug use and overdose. Please be mindful of your own well-being. Listeners discretion is advised.

Contact Kim and support One Decision Clothing Co.

Instagram: @onedecision.clothingco

Website: One Decision Clothing Co.

Key Takeaways:

If you are struggling with addiction, depression and or anxiety, please ask for help, no matter how hard it may be. I’ve included some resources below that may be helpful.

Suicide Crisis Helpline - 988 for 24/7 calls and texts

⁠⁠⁠Addictions Support⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Mental Health Support⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠Arete Psychology⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠Dustin Hogan Counselling⁠

Get future episodes sent straight to your inbox by subscribing to my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This is also where you can leave your questions, comments or story. If you don't feel comfortable leaving a comment you can email me at [email protected]

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@secondnature_podcast⁠⁠

If you would like to support this podcast you could ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy Me A Coffee⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this conversation, Dustin Hogan, a men's mental health counselor, discusses the state of men's mental health and the trends he sees in his practice. Many men are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship challenges, and feelings of unfulfillment. Hogan emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and addressing emotional and communication issues. He explains his counseling process, which includes creating action plans and setting goals. Hogan also shares his personal journey and the importance of empathy in his work. He provides advice for supporting someone in need and discusses his approach to working with addiction. Finally, he highlights the power of positivity and gratitude in mental health. In this conversation, Dustin Hogan discusses the importance of men's mental health and the challenges men face in seeking help. He emphasizes the need to break the stigma surrounding men's mental health and encourages men to reach out for support. Dustin also shares his contact information and future plans to provide resources for men's mental health.

This episode contains talk of anxiety, depression and suicide. Please be mindful of your own well-being. Listeners discretion is advised.

Dustins Contact info:

Key Takeaways:

If you are struggling with addiction, depression and or anxiety, please ask for help, no matter how hard it may be. I’ve included some resources below that may be helpful.

Suicide Crisis Helpline - 988 for 24/7 calls and texts

⁠⁠Addictions Support⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Mental Health Support⁠⁠⁠

⁠Arete Psychology⁠⁠⁠

Dustin Hogan Counselling

Get future episodes sent straight to your inbox by subscribing to my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This is also where you can leave your questions, comments or story. If you don't feel comfortable leaving a comment you can email me at [email protected]

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@secondnature_podcast⁠

If you would like to support this podcast you could ⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy Me A Coffee⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this conversation, Mike and Rylan discuss Rylan's journey with alcohol and sobriety. They talk about Rylan's early alcohol realization and how it affected his life as a hockey player. Rylan shares his struggles with alcohol in university and the moment of clarity that led him to quit drinking. They also discuss the importance of support and building a strong infrastructure during recovery. Rylan emphasizes the significance of community and connection in maintaining sobriety. The conversation highlights the motivation to change and the transformative power of finding a healthy relationship. The conversation covers topics such as navigating social situations and relationships while sober, reflecting on the hockey career and personal growth, the use of medication for mental health, and dealing with concussion issues and treatment. In this conversation, Rylan discusses his experience with concussions and the impact they have had on his life. He shares how his mindset and understanding of himself have evolved as he has learned more about the connection between concussions, addiction, and gut health. Rylan emphasizes the importance of taking care of one's body and being one's own advocate in the recovery process. He also highlights the value of setting goals and embracing the process of healing and personal growth. The conversation concludes with an invitation for others to share their stories and connect with Rylan and Mike.

This episode contains talk of alcohol and drug use. Please be mindful of your own well-being. Listeners discretion is advised.

Rylans Instagram: @rylanwiest

Rylans email: [email protected]

If you listen on Apple podcast and would like to help the show. You can rate and leave a comment in order to help us grow. If you follow on instagram and see a reel, like and share it. It may seem small but everything helps. 

Thank you for listening and we will see you next episode.

If you are struggling with addiction, depression and or anxiety, please ask for help, no matter how hard it may be. I’ve included some resources below that may be helpful.

Suicide Crisis Helpline - 988 for 24/7 calls and texts 

⁠⁠Addictions Support⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Mental Health Support⁠⁠⁠

⁠Arete Psychology⁠⁠⁠

Get future episodes sent straight to your inbox by subscribing to my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This is also where you can leave your questions, comments or story. If you don't feel comfortable leaving a comment you can email me at [email protected]

In this conversation, Svend Wiele discusses his upbringing in East Berlin and the impact it had on his self-worth. He shares his journey of discovering self-worth and self-love through his struggles with anxiety and depression. Svend also explores the challenges of balancing sports and personal life, the pressure of attachments in sports, and the importance of living in the moment. He emphasizes the holistic approach to sports and the need to understand others' perspectives and practice forgiveness. Svend concludes by highlighting the power of asking questions and choosing intentions. In this conversation, Mike and Svend discuss the importance of creating a circle of self-love and how it impacts our ability to impact the world. They also share their personal experiences with depression and anxiety and how they have learned to live with and overcome these challenges. Svend talks about his journey into personal coaching and the importance of finding the right support system. They end the conversation by emphasizing the need to embrace growth and let go of comparison.

This episode contains talk of suicide. Please be mindful of your own well-being. Listeners discretion is advised.

Contact Svend 

Key Takeaways:

If you listen on Apple podcast and would like to help the show. You can rate and leave a comment in order to help us grow. If you follow on instagram and see a reel, like and share it. It may seem small but everything helps. 

Thank you for listening and we will see you next episode.

If you are struggling with addiction, depression and or anxiety, please ask for help, no matter how hard it may be. I’ve included some resources below that may be helpful.

Suicide Crisis Helpline - 988 for 24/7 calls and texts

⁠Addictions Support⁠⁠

⁠⁠Mental Health Support⁠⁠

Arete Psychology⁠⁠

Get future episodes sent straight to your inbox by subscribing to my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This is also where you can leave your questions, comments or story. If you don't feel comfortable leaving a comment you can email me at [email protected]

If you would like to support this podcast you could ⁠⁠Buy Me A Coffee⁠⁠

This episode contains talk of suicide, alcohol and drug use. Please be mindful of your own well-being. Listeners discretion is advised.

This conversation explores Matt Maleschuk's journey as a former hockey player dealing with addiction and mental health struggles. It discusses the influence of hockey culture on drinking habits, the challenges in junior hockey, and underlying issues of self-worth. The conversation also covers topics like hazing, masculinity, concussions, and challenges after leaving hockey. It highlights the consequences of self-medicating and denial in high-functioning alcoholism. The discussion touches on the addictive mindset, seeking help, and the importance of support systems. Matt shares his experience in treatment, the decision to pursue recovery, and the significance of understanding the problem. The conversation concludes with the importance of removing substances, seeking professional help, surrender, and acceptance. Matt emphasizes leading with kindness, self-care, and maintaining a beneficial routine in recovery. The discussion also reflects on personal experiences, mental health, memories, depression, connecting with others, and the writing process.

Key Takeaways:

Matts Instagram: @mattmaleschuk

If you are struggling with addiction, depression and or anxiety, please ask for help, no matter how hard it may be. I’ve included some resources below that may be helpful. ⁠Addictions Support⁠

⁠Mental Health Support⁠

⁠Arete Psychology⁠

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@secondnature_habits⁠⁠⁠

If you would like to support this podcast you could ⁠Buy Me A Coffee⁠

In this weeks episode I take you through a book that had a big impact on my initial days in treatment. That book being The Four Agreements, written by Don Miguel Ruiz. It is something that I never would have picked up or been able to get myself to read had I not gone. It is a light read, but makes you think - In what areas of my life could this help me? 

If you are struggling with addiction, depression and or anxiety, please ask for help, no matter how hard it may be. I’ve included some resources below that may be helpful. 

Addictions Support

Mental Health Support

Arete Psychology

Get future episodes sent straight to your inbox by subscribing to my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This is also where you can leave your questions, comments or story. If you don't feel comfortable leaving a comment you can email me at [email protected]

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Personal Coaching ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - If you are looking for a supportive way to better yourself, hit the link!

Instagram: ⁠⁠@secondnature_habits⁠⁠

If you would like to support this podcast you could Buy Me A Coffee

Episode Reference:

The Four Agreements

In this episode, I reflect on the benefits of sobriety, highlighting the triumphs and newfound clarity it brought. Revisiting a goal set in the early days, its achievement becomes a powerful symbol of personal growth. I calmly reassess the source of addiction, sharing insights gained from self-reflection. The podcast's origins are explored, revealing the raw emotions that fueled its creation and connection with others. Looking ahead, I express aspirations on where I want this to go, aiming to make a positive impact and share lessons learned. With gratitude for your support, I thank you for taking this journey with me.

This episode contains talk of alcohol and drug use. Please be mindful of your own well-being. Listeners discretion is advised.

If you are struggling with addiction, depression and or anxiety, please ask for help, no matter how hard it may be. I’ve included some resources below that may be helpful. 

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Addictions Support⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mental Health Support⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Arete Psychology⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get future episodes sent straight to your inbox by subscribing to my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This is also where you can leave your questions, comments or story. If you don't feel comfortable leaving a comment you can email me at [email protected]

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Personal Coaching ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - If you are looking for a supportive way to better yourself, hit the link!

Instagram: ⁠@secondnature_habits⁠

⁠Support this podcast

Episode Reference:

Nature vs. Nurture - This link takes you to the exact point where it is discussed. After listening there, I highly recommend going back and listening to the full episode. 

Steven Pressfield Interview

The War of Art - Fear 

In this episode, we delve into my first days after treatment, marked by a steadfast determination to confront the world without hiding from its challenges. I find solace in a supportive community, strengthening my resolve to maintain sobriety. Amidst this pivotal period, I meet someone who will play a special role in my life. Through candid reflection, we witness the emergence of a resolute mindset that will guide me towards a lasting, alcohol-free life.

This episode contains talk of alcohol and drug use. Please be mindful of your own well-being. Listeners discretion is advised.

If you are struggling with addiction, depression and or anxiety, please ask for help, no matter how hard it may be. I’ve included some resources below that may be helpful. 

⁠⁠⁠⁠Addictions Support⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Mental Health Support⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Arete Psychology⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get future episodes sent straight to your inbox by subscribing to my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠ This is also where you can leave your questions, comments or story. If you don't feel comfortable leaving a comment you can email me at [email protected]

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Personal Coaching ⁠⁠⁠⁠ - If you are looking for a supportive way to better yourself, hit the link!

Instagram: @secondnature_habits

Support this podcast

In episode 8, I share my last days in treatment. Drawing on the collective wisdom of former residents, I find solace and inspiration. A silent retreat offers a space for quiet reflection and self-discovery. With renewed clarity, I look ahead to the real world, armed with newfound tools. The final assignment becomes a powerful testament to my growth and readiness for the next chapter. This episode is a testament to the strength found in community, inner reflection, and the unwavering journey towards sobriety.

This episode contains talk of alcohol and drug use. Please be mindful of your own well-being. Listeners discretion is advised.

If you are struggling with addiction, depression and or anxiety, please ask for help, no matter how hard it may be. I’ve included some resources below that may be helpful. 

⁠⁠⁠Addictions Support⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Mental Health Support⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Arete Psychology⁠⁠⁠

Get future episodes sent straight to your inbox by subscribing to my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠ This is also where you can leave your questions, comments or story. If you don't feel comfortable leaving a comment you can email me at [email protected]

⁠⁠Personal Coaching ⁠⁠⁠ - If you are looking for a supportive way to better yourself, hit the link!

⁠Support my work⁠

Episode Reference:

Dark vs. Light Wolf Parable