Gerard Bradbury's life was once a tumultuous storm of anxiety and alcoholism, but today it stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. Gerard joins us to reveal his deeply personal journey chronicled in his memoir, "Tripping Over Myself: A Journey from Addiction and Anxiety to Awareness and Peace." His first brush with alcohol at just 12 years old set off a chain of events that nearly ended his life, but Gerard found his way through the darkness, guided by the support of his family and a newfound commitment to sobriety.

Listeners will find themselves on the edge of their seats as Gerard recounts the grim realities of his addiction. From a night when he was turned away from a hospital with a faint chance of survival, to the heartbreak of cirrhosis and the relentless pull of alcohol, Gerard's raw honesty exposes the heavy toll of his self-destructive path. Yet, amid this adversity, he speaks with gratitude about his family's unwavering support and reflects on the miracle of survival. His story sheds light on the lack of support systems during his youth, while also serving as a testimony to the strength of the human spirit.

In this episode, you will hear:

Gerard Bradbury's transformative journey from addiction and anxiety to sobriety and peace.

Early life challenges including childhood anxiety and bullying contributing to his struggles.

First encounter with alcohol at age 12 as a temporary escape from emotional pain.

Harrowing experiences of alcohol addiction, including life-threatening medical emergencies.

The pivotal role of family support in Gerard's path to recovery.

Breaking the silence around addiction as a crucial step in healing.

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Supporting Resources:

https://www.trippingovermyself.com/

Buy Gerard's Book!

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

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Do you feel like you're constantly on high alert, waiting for the next shoe to drop? Like your body is braced for impact even when there's no real danger around you? You're exhausted, on edge, and maybe you find yourself reaching for something—anything—to make it stop. A drink, a pill, a behavior that gives you just a moment of peace.

If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. And more importantly, you're not broken.

DOWNLOAD THE WORKSHEET

In this eye-opening episode of The Addicted Mind, host Duane Ostlund reveals the hidden connection between past trauma and present-day addiction. Drawing from groundbreaking research by experts like Dr. Bessel van der Kolk and Dr. Bruce Perry, Duane explains how trauma literally rewires our brains, keeping us stuck in survival mode long after the danger has passed.

You'll discover why your brain's alarm system (the amygdala) won't shut off, how chronic stress floods your body with harmful hormones, and why substances become a desperate attempt at self-medication rather than a moral failing. This isn't about willpower—it's about biology.

But here's the hope: there's a way out. Duane shares the surprising antidote to this cycle—and it's not what you might expect. Instead of running from uncomfortable feelings, the path to healing involves gently turning inward and learning to embrace your nervous system.

Through practical techniques like body scanning and interoception (awareness of your body's internal signals), you can begin to retrain your brain. You'll learn to shift from asking "What's wrong with me?" to "What happened to me?"—a simple question that changes everything.

This episode offers both scientific understanding and practical hope for anyone who feels trapped in cycles of addiction, chronic stress, or emotional numbness. Whether you're struggling yourself or supporting someone who is, you'll gain valuable insights into the body-mind connection and discover that healing truly is possible.

DOWNLOAD THE WORKSHEET

If you live in California, Idaho, Virginia, or Florida and are looking for counseling or therapy, please visit Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center.

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We want to hear from you. Please leave us a message or ask us a question: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Duane is joined by Beau Williams, the author of "One Year With My Soulmate." We discuss the deeply personal and emotional process of navigating life after such profound loss. Beau courageously opens up about his late partner Melanie's struggles with unresolved trauma and dependency on Adderall, and her search for healing through breathwork and self-discovery. This conversation sheds light on the complexities of love and loss and the resilience required to find purpose amidst the chaos.

Through sleepless nights in America and a transformative move to Bali, we explore how practices like HIIT fitness, ice baths, and journaling became crucial components of self-healing. Beau's story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to transform pain into purpose, as he embraced a new mission to help others struggling with trauma and addiction. Our dialogue touches on the emotional toll of grief, the struggle to maintain personal growth, and the importance of self-care, highlighting the impact of eliminating alcohol and the power of breathwork in clearing negative energies.

In this episode, you will hear:

Personal journey of grief and transformation after losing a soulmate to suicide

Beau Williams shares insights from his book "One Year With My Soulmate"

Exploration of unresolved trauma, addiction, and healing practices

Role of breathwork, HIIT fitness, and journaling in self-healing

Importance of spiritual connections and reframing loss as a learning experience

Challenges and rewards of embracing a wellness-focused lifestyle

Follow and Review:

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Supporting Resources:

https://www.sunflowersignals.com/

NovusMindfulLife.com

https://www.theaddictedmind.com/community 

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

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See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you tired of being stuck in the same painful cycle?

You know the one – where you can't deal with what's happening, you're angry at the world, and you keep hoping things will magically change. Maybe you're fighting with your spouse, holding grudges, or just feeling completely overwhelmed by life.

Here's the truth: all that fighting against reality is actually making your addiction, anxiety, and depression worse. But there's a way out, and it starts with something called radical acceptance.

In this episode, Duane and Eric break down this powerful tool from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) that's been helping people escape the addiction cycle. You'll discover why accepting painful situations doesn't mean giving up – it's actually the first step toward real change.

They'll walk you through exactly what radical acceptance looks like, share simple statements you can use when emotions feel overwhelming, and give you a clear three-step process to start practicing today. You'll learn why the creator of DBT said "the path out of hell is through misery" and how this counterintuitive approach can finally give you the peace you've been searching for.

Whether you're dealing with addiction, anxiety, depression, or just feeling stuck in life, this episode offers hope and practical tools you can start using immediately. Don't miss the free worksheet that goes with this episode to help you put these concepts into action.

DOWNLOAD THE WORKSHEET

Key Topics

• What radical acceptance really means and why it's not giving up 

• The difference between pain and suffering – and why fighting reality increases both 

• Three simple steps to start practicing radical acceptance today 

• When radical acceptance isn't appropriate (like abusive situations) 

• Powerful statements to use when emotions feel overwhelming 

• How this Buddhist-inspired therapy tool breaks the addiction cycle 

• Why accepting grief and loss is essential for healing

If you live in California, Idaho, Virginia, or Florida and are looking for counseling or therapy, please visit Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NovusMindfulLife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

We want to hear from you. Please leave us a message or ask us a question: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Years ago, Olivia Sproat stood at a crossroads. As a provisional psychologist and former counselor, she was drawn to a unique women's rehabilitation prison in Australia—a place where the focus on compassion and respect seemed to offer a glimmer of hope. Today, she joins us to share her journey into this transformative field, where a pioneering program has slashed recidivism rates to an astonishing 6%, compared to the usual 40%. Through her eyes, we explore how addressing the specific barriers faced by women, especially mothers battling addiction, can carve out meaningful paths to recovery.

The notion of prison life is often clouded by preconceived ideas about punishment and confinement. However, Olivia paints an entirely different picture of Wandoo prison, where emotional safety and community are at the forefront. She reveals how conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and mentorship transform lives within its walls. The therapeutic community here is more than just a concept; it's a living, breathing system that encourages trust and vulnerability, allowing women to connect deeply with their peers and themselves. Olivia's insights challenge traditional punitive models, advocating for a system rooted in kindness and support.

In this episode, you will hear:

Transformative power of compassionate rehabilitation in a unique women's prison in Australia

Olivia Sproat's journey as a provisional psychologist and former counselor at Wandoo prison

Therapeutic community model slashing recidivism rates to 6%

Addressing barriers faced by incarcerated women, especially mothers battling addiction

Emotional safety, conflict resolution, and mentorship fostering profound change

Dichotomy of external versus internal freedom explored within prison walls

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

NovusMindfulLife.com

https://www.theaddictedmind.com/community 

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Picture yourself staring in the mirror at 3 AM, promising yourself that tomorrow will be different, while that familiar voice whispers "you're weak" and "what's wrong with you?" If this sounds familiar, you need to hear this episode.

Host Duane Osterlind delivers a solo episode that completely destroys the most dangerous myth about addiction - that it's a moral failing or character flaw. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has personally walked through addiction, Duane brings both professional expertise and lived experience to this life-changing conversation.

This isn't another "just try harder" message. Instead, Duane shares groundbreaking brain science that proves addiction is a chronic brain disorder, not a weakness. You'll discover how your brain's reward system gets hijacked, why willpower alone isn't enough, and why shame actually makes recovery harder.

Drawing from leading researchers like Dr. Gabor Maté, Dr. Nora Volkow, and Dr. Anna Lembke, Duane explains the three stages of addiction and how genetics, environment, and brain chemistry all play crucial roles. More importantly, he provides practical steps to move from shame to self-compassion.

If you've ever felt broken, weak, or alone in your struggle with addiction, this episode will give you a new understanding of what you're really dealing with - and hope for genuine healing. You'll learn why connection is the opposite of addiction and how curiosity can replace judgment in your recovery journey.

This episode includes a free worksheet called "Reframing Your Addiction Story" to help you put these insights into practice immediately.

Download The Worksheet

Key Topics

Addiction as Brain Disease - Understanding the neurological changes that occur in addiction 

The Shame Cycle - How moral failure myths keep people trapped in addiction 

Brain Science Breakdown - Dopamine, prefrontal cortex, and the three stages of addiction 

Genetics vs. Choice - Why addiction risk is 40-60% genetic 

Self-Compassion Practices - Practical steps to move from shame to healing 

Connection as Medicine - Why isolation feeds addiction and relationships heal 

Rewriting Your Story - Separating who you are from what you've done

Timestamps

[00:01:00] - The 3 AM mirror moment: Breaking the shame cycle 

[00:03:00] - What addiction really is: Brain disorder vs. moral failing 

[00:05:00] - How your brain gets hijacked: The dopamine flood explained 

[00:06:00] - Historical perspective: From moral failing to medical condition 

[00:08:00] - The damage of shame: Why stigma makes addiction worse 

[00:10:00] - Practical healing steps: Self-compassion and education 

[00:12:00] - Recovery is possible: Brains heal and neural pathways rewire

If you live in California, Idaho, Virginia, or Florida and are looking for counseling or therapy, please visit Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NovusMindfulLife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

We want to hear from you. Please leave us a message or ask us a question: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Legendary musician Dion DiMucci joins us to share his extraordinary journey of recovery and growth, shedding light on the transformative power of spirituality and mentorship. Known for timeless hits like "Runaround Sue" and "The Wanderer," Dion candidly discusses his battle with addiction and his path to over 57 years of sobriety. He reveals how faith and a 12-step recovery program changed his life, offering profound insights from his co-authored book, "Dion the Rock and Roll Philosopher." Dion's stories are more than just tales of survival; they are lessons in finding purpose and inner peace through a connection with a higher power.

Mentorship takes center stage as we explore its profound impact on personal growth and emotional resilience. Sharing personal anecdotes and wisdom from his mentor, Dion emphasizes the irreplaceable value of genuine human connections over the pursuit of external validations like wealth and power. This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of surrounding oneself with people who can offer perspective and guidance during life's challenges, highlighting that true fulfillment often thrives in the warmth of meaningful relationships and shared wisdom.

In this episode, you will hear:

Dion DiMucci's journey from addiction to over 57 years of sobriety through faith and a 12-step recovery program.

The transformative role of spirituality and mentorship in personal growth and recovery.

Insights from Dion's book "Dion the Rock and Roll Philosopher," emphasizing wisdom, faith, and philosophical reflections.

The significance of genuine human connections and mentorship over material success and external validations.

Exploring the quest for fulfillment beyond professional achievements through self-reflection and humility.

Dion's profound spiritual awakening experience and its impact on his life and relationships.

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

NovusMindfulLife.com

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever felt completely stuck when facing a difficult situation? Like you're drowning in endless possibilities and can't find your way forward? You're not alone. Most of us get trapped in decision paralysis, overthinking every angle until we're more anxious than when we started.

In this powerful episode, Duane and Eric Osterlind break down a life-changing framework that can transform how you handle any problematic situation. Based on Marshall Linehan's Dialectical Behavior Therapy work, they reveal that no matter how complex your challenge feels, you actually only have four choices available to you.

Download The Worksheet

Whether you're struggling with addiction recovery, facing a major life transition, or simply feeling overwhelmed by daily stressors, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward. The hosts share practical examples of how to apply each choice, including how to reframe withdrawal symptoms as signs of healing and how to use acceptance as a tool for reducing suffering rather than avoiding it.

You'll discover why "staying miserable" is sometimes the right choice and how recognizing this can actually empower you. More importantly, you'll learn how to break free from the endless cycle of "what-ifs" and take meaningful action in your life.

This isn't just theory – it's a practical roadmap that puts you back in the driver's seat of your own life. By the end of this episode, you'll have a simple but powerful tool that can help you navigate any challenge with greater confidence and less overwhelm.

Download The Worksheet

Supporting Resources:

If you live in California, Idaho, Vermont, or Florida and are looking for counseling or therapy, please visit Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NovusMindfulLife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

We want to hear from you. Please leave us a message or ask us a question: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Mike Long, the brilliant physicist-turned-writer and co-author of "The Molecule of More," joins us for a riveting conversation on the Addicted Mind Podcast. Together, we dissect the fascinating world of dopamine and its powerful influence over our behavior and experiences. We take a closer look at how this neurotransmitter's relentless push for future rewards often clouds our present joys, impacting everyday actions from gambling to excessive use of social media. Mike's unique perspective bridges natural patterns with human habits, offering profound insights into the mind's complex workings.

In our discussion, we unravel the dual nature of dopamine, painting a vivid picture of its role as both motivator and alert system. Through engaging analogies, like the excitement of Christmas morning, we explore how dopamine shapes our desires and decision-making, propelling us toward imagined futures. Yet, the episode doesn't shy away from recognizing the challenges posed by dopamine's influence, especially in the context of modern technology and its overstimulation. By diving into the science behind neurotransmitters, we underscore the importance of balance in navigating this chemical-driven landscape.

In this episode, you will hear:

Mike Long's exploration of dopamine's dual nature as both a motivator and an alert system

The impact of dopamine on future-focused behaviors and the overshadowing of present joys

Practical strategies to balance dopamine's influence and promote mindful living

Discussion on GLP-1 drugs' potential in curbing cravings and treating addiction

The role of technology in amplifying dopamine-driven habits and solutions for managing screen time

Techniques for fostering personal growth and relationships through intentional living

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

NovusMindfulLife.com

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you ever feel stuck, like something is silently holding you back from achieving your goals in recovery? You’re not alone. On today’s episode of Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind tackle a subject that hits close to home for many of us: those sneaky, unhelpful thought patterns called cognitive distortions.

These tricky mental habits can silently sabotage progress and keep us locked in cycles of addiction. From all-or-nothing thinking to blaming yourself for what’s outside your control, these thoughts can feel overwhelming—but they don’t have to define you.

Duane and Eric break down the seven most common cognitive distortions and provide actionable tips to help you challenge and reframe your thinking. Their insights are your roadmap to building a healthier, more empowered mindset.

Why you should listen to this episode:

Whether you’re working through recovery yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about how our minds work, this episode is packed with powerful lessons to inspire hope and growth.

Don’t miss out on the free companion resource! Download the 7 Sneaky Thoughts Holding You Back Worksheet Here to start reshaping your mindset today.

It’s not just about what’s happening in your life; it’s about how you think about it. And when you approach challenges with clarity and compassion, the path forward becomes clearer.

Tune in now to take the first step toward breaking free!

Key Topics:

The impact of cognitive distortions on addiction

Overcoming all-or-nothing thinking

The power of challenging negative thoughts

Recognizing and reframing mental filters

The importance of acknowledging positive steps in recovery

Timestamps:

[00:01:00] Introduction to cognitive distortions

[00:03:48] Discussing "all or nothing" thinking

[00:05:58] Exploring mental filters and their impact

[00:07:40] Addressing the habit of discounting the positive

[00:09:23] How jumping to conclusions affects us

[00:11:24] The problem with labeling ourselves

[00:13:48] The importance of challenging cognitive distortions

Supporting Resources:

If you live in California, Idaho, Vermont, or Florida and are looking for counseling or therapy, please visit Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center.

⁠⁠⁠⁠NovusMindfulLife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

We want to hear from you. Please leave us a message or ask us a question: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind⁠⁠⁠⁠

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