In this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Dan Berger, an entrepreneur, author, and founder of Social Tables and Assemble Hospitality. Dan opens up about his deeply personal battle with addiction, the struggles he faced with self-worth and belonging, and how recovery transformed his life. From growing up with feelings of disconnection to seeking validation through success and substance use, Dan shares the pivotal moments that led him to sobriety and self-discovery.

Dan’s journey took him from building a thriving tech company to embarking on an introspective road trip after its sale, ultimately leading to his latest book, The Quest: The Definitive Guide to Finding Belonging. In this candid conversation, he and Gary discuss the impact of childhood trauma, addiction recovery, and the power of vulnerability in healing. They also dive into the challenges of male loneliness, the sober curious movement, and how embracing discomfort can lead to transformation.

If you’ve ever struggled with addiction or questioned where you truly belong, this episode is for you. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on recovery, reinvention, and the lifelong pursuit of connection. 🎙️✨

About Dan Berger: 

Dan Berger is an entrepreneur, author, and thought leader on belonging and connection. As the founder of Social Tables, a groundbreaking event-planning SaaS company, he revolutionized how people gather. Following the sale of his company, Dan embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery, leading him to write The Quest: The Definitive Guide to Finding Belonging, where he explores the science and strategies behind building meaningful connections. Now, through Assemble Hospitality, he continues to create spaces that foster authentic human interactions.

Follow Dan’s journey and insights on: 

📲 Instagram: instagram.com/danberger 

🌍 Website: assemblehospitality.com and belongingquest.com. 

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 In this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Matt von Boecklin, founder of Quit Kit, to discuss his powerful journey from battling addiction to developing a science-backed solution for recovery. Matt opens up about his struggles with alcohol abuse, how frequent relocations fueled his addiction, and the mental toll it took on his life. He shares how his background in chemical engineering led him to create Quit Kit, a three-week supply of key nutrients designed to ease withdrawal symptoms and support dopamine regulation, helping others through the toughest phase of quitting.

Gary and Matt dive deep into personal transformation, the resilience found in recovery, and the power of community in overcoming addiction. They explore the science behind withdrawal, the role of dopamine in recovery, and how addressing the body’s needs can make the process more manageable. Matt also shares his commitment to helping others find support and resources, emphasizing that no one has to go through this alone.

Whether you're on your own recovery journey or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights, encouragement, and real-world solutions to make sobriety more achievable. Tune in now for an inspiring conversation! 

About Matt von Boecklin:

Matt von Boecklin is the founder of Quit Kit, a groundbreaking solution designed to help individuals navigate the early stages of addiction recovery by easing withdrawal symptoms. With a background in chemical engineering, Matt combined science with personal experience to create a three-week supply of essential nutrients that support dopamine regulation and overall well-being during detox. His journey from battling addiction to building a resource for others reflects his passion for helping people reclaim their lives. Follow Matt and Quit Kit for more recovery insights and support:

🌍 Website: https://tryquitkit.com/
📲 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_quit_kit 

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 In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Aaron Mead to explore his raw and inspiring journey from addiction to recovery. Aaron candidly shares his struggles with alcohol and substance abuse, reflecting on the emotional battles that kept him trapped in a cycle of self-destruction. He opens up about the pivotal moments that forced him to confront his addiction, including life-threatening experiences and the painful realization of how his choices were impacting those he loved.

Aaron discusses his transformative experience in rehab, the challenges of maintaining sobriety, and the courage it took to face his fears and resentments head-on. Through his recovery, Aaron found healing in mindfulness practices like Transcendental Meditation and breathwork, which helped him rediscover his purpose and rebuild his life from the ground up.

This episode dives deep into the complexities of addiction, the power of community support, and the continuous journey of self-awareness and personal growth. Whether you're in recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for a story of resilience and hope, Aaron’s testimony is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to begin again.

Tune in and be inspired by Aaron Mead's journey of redemption and transformation.

About Aaron Mead:

Aaron Mead is a recovery advocate and wellness enthusiast who turned his life around after battling addiction and finding purpose through sobriety. With a deep commitment to helping others on their recovery journeys, Aaron shares his story to inspire hope and resilience. He is passionate about mindfulness practices, including Transcendental Meditation and breathwork, which play a significant role in his daily life and healing process. Through his experiences, Aaron encourages others to confront their fears and embrace a life of growth and gratitude.

Follow Aaron Mead's journey and insights on sobriety and wellness:
https://www.instagram.com/AaronJennerMead/ 

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In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes welcomes back Samantha Lander, a functional nutritionist, personal trainer, and recovery advocate, to discuss her transformative journey through addiction, relapse, and ultimate recovery. Samantha opens up about the challenges of maintaining sobriety, balancing motherhood, and overcoming personal struggles, including the emotional toll of past relationships.

She shares how fitness, movement, and breathwork became essential tools in her recovery, helping her manage negative self-talk and promote mental well-being. Gary and Samantha dive into the impact of shame, resilience, and spirituality in the recovery process, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system and community.

Beyond addiction recovery, Samantha is now on a mission to help others heal from within, focusing on gut health, hormones, and holistic wellness. She also discusses her ambitious goal of setting a Guinness World Record for the largest group ice plunge for mental health.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking for inspiration, health insights, and motivation on their path to recovery and self-improvement. Tune in and join the conversation!

About Samantha Lander:

Samantha Lander is a functional nutritionist, personal trainer, and recovery advocate dedicated to helping others achieve optimal health and wellness. After overcoming her own battle with addiction, Samantha turned her passion for fitness and nutrition into a career focused on gut health, hormone balance, and holistic recovery support. She is the founder of See Fit Living, where she empowers individuals to heal their bodies and minds through functional medicine and movement. Samantha is also on a mission to break a Guinness World Record for the largest group ice plunge for mental health.

🔗 Follow her journey:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seefitliving/
Website: https://seefitpt.com/

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In this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes welcomes Gail Taylor, a musician, author, and motivational speaker, to share her inspiring journey of transformation. Gail opens up about her struggle with addiction, the moment she realized she needed change, and how recovery became the foundation for her personal and professional reinvention. From overcoming her own challenges to witnessing her son’s battle with substance abuse, Gail’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and growth.

She discusses the concept of a “high bottom”—where addiction doesn’t always result in extreme consequences but still requires deep self-reflection and change. Gail also shares how sobriety gave her the clarity to pursue a new passion for music and writing, culminating in her latest book, which uniquely combines personal storytelling with an original soundtrack.

Throughout the conversation, Gary and Gail explore the impact of mindset, the importance of financial security in recovery, and the transformative power of storytelling. Whether you’re navigating your own sobriety journey or seeking inspiration to embrace change, this episode is a must-listen.

About Gail Taylor:

Gail Taylor is a musician, author, and motivational speaker dedicated to inspiring others through her journey of recovery and personal growth. After overcoming addiction, she transformed her life by channeling her experiences into music and writing, proving that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. Through her books, speaking engagements, and songwriting, Gail empowers others to embrace change, find their passion, and live with purpose. Follow her journey and discover her work at:

🌎 Website: https://www.gailtaylormusic.com/
📚 Books: https://gailtaylorauthor.com/
🎶 Music Project: https://www.gailtaylormusic.com/single-project
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gailtaylormusic/

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In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes welcomes back Michael Conklin for an insightful conversation about addiction, recovery, and the ongoing journey of personal transformation. Michael shares raw and honest reflections on his past struggles with alcohol, the reckless decisions that nearly derailed his life, and the pivotal moments that led him to embrace sobriety.

Michael and Gary discuss the harsh realities of addiction, emphasizing that hitting rock bottom isn’t always about how bad things get—it’s about realizing the need for change. They explore the non-linear nature of recovery, the importance of community support, and the courage it takes to ask for help. Michael reflects on the valuable lessons he has learned along the way, from overcoming relapses to surrounding himself with people who uplift and hold him accountable.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone on their own path to sobriety or supporting a loved one in recovery. Michael’s story serves as a reminder that no matter how lost you may feel, change is always possible. Tune in for inspiration, motivation, and a deep dive into the transformative power of sobriety. 

About Michael Conklin:

Michael Conklin is a dedicated advocate for sobriety, personal growth, and mental wellness. Having battled addiction firsthand, he now uses his experience to inspire and support others on their recovery journeys. Through his work, Michael emphasizes the power of community, resilience, and self-improvement, proving that transformation is possible at any stage of life. His insights on addiction, accountability, and mindset continue to impact countless individuals seeking a fresh start. 

Follow Michael’s journey and connect with him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterbeginningnow/.

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In this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Ian Fee, author of Wild Ride to Sobriety, to discuss his unconventional and intense journey to recovery. Ian opens up about his years of excessive partying, business success, and eventual spiral into addiction, leading him to hit rock bottom. He shares his experience with aversion therapy, a controversial yet highly effective treatment that reshaped his relationship with alcohol and became a turning point in his sobriety.

Ian reflects on the Shik Shadle rehabilitation center, where he underwent a radical 10-day treatment that changed his life. He also highlights the importance of self-forgiveness, discipline, and personal growth, discussing how he rebuilt his life through rigorous routines, fitness, and cold plunging. He and Gary dive into the power of facing discomfort, letting go of resentment, and embracing new perspectives in sobriety.

This episode is a raw, honest, and inspiring look into the ups and downs of addiction and recovery. Tune in to hear Ian’s hard-hitting insights, lessons learned, and how sharing his story has impacted others. Don’t miss this one! 🎙🔥 

About Ian Fee:

Ian Fee is the author of Wild Ride to Sobriety, a gripping memoir that chronicles his turbulent journey from excessive partying and business success to hitting rock bottom and finding clarity through recovery. With a unique approach to sobriety, Ian underwent intense aversion therapy and embraced self-forgiveness, discipline, and personal growth to reclaim his life. Now, he shares his story to inspire others battling addiction, emphasizing the power of resilience and transformation. 

Follow Ian's journey and insights on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ian.fee/, Get his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Ride-Sobriety-Transformation-Oblivion-ebook/dp/B0DHV4VBHS.

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In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes welcomes the remarkable Danielle Mallad, a recovery advocate, writer, and future addiction counselor, to share her deeply personal journey through addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. Danielle recounts her life from the magical days of childhood to the darkness of addiction, including struggles with alcohol, drugs, and postpartum depression. Her story highlights the impact of societal stigma, unresolved trauma, and the challenges of promising a brighter future to her daughter while battling her inner demons.

Danielle opens up about her sobriety journey, which began on October 7, 2019, and her commitment to inspiring others in recovery, particularly within underserved communities. She candidly discusses pivotal moments of self-realization, including confronting past sexual abuse and the transformative power of sharing personal stories to support others on their paths to healing.

Listeners will be moved by Danielle’s resilience, her passion for mentoring, and her dedication to helping others reclaim their lives beyond addiction. This episode offers hope, powerful insights, and a reminder that recovery is possible for anyone ready to begin again. Tune in for an emotional, uplifting conversation that celebrates courage, vulnerability, and the journey to living a purposeful life.

About Danielle Mallad:

Danielle Mallad is an inspiring advocate for addiction recovery, a dedicated mentor, and a passionate writer. Having overcome her own struggles with alcohol, drugs, and societal stigma, Danielle began her transformative journey to sobriety on October 7, 2019. 

She now uses her experiences to empower others battling addiction, particularly in underserved communities, while shedding light on the importance of confronting past traumas for healing and growth. 

Danielle is currently pursuing her passion for addiction counseling and group therapy, helping others reclaim their lives and identities beyond addiction. 

Follow Danielle’s journey and recovery insights:

Website: https://modernpsychandwellness.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellemallad/

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In this powerful episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Carol Ann Ferguson, founder of Books Over Booze, to explore her transformative journey from battling late-onset alcoholism to creating a platform that inspires sobriety through the healing power of books. Carol Ann shares her candid story, revealing how societal pressures, personal struggles, and the stigma of addiction led to years of denial and hidden drinking, culminating in a pivotal moment of illness in 2023 that changed her life forever.

Carol Ann discusses the challenges of maintaining sobriety, particularly in social settings filled with alcohol, and how she discovered solace and distraction in reading. Her journey of self-awareness and the supportive online community she built through Books Over Booze highlight the importance of connection and accountability in recovery. Together, Gary and Carol Ann explore the profound impact of childhood trauma on addiction, the genetic predispositions that concern her for her daughters, and the courage it takes to share personal recovery stories publicly.

Tune in to hear Carol Ann’s inspiring transformation, the lessons she’s learned, and how she’s helping others rewrite their own stories of recovery and resilience. 🌟 

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In this powerful compilation episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes celebrates the resilience, strength, and courage of the incredible women who have shared their stories throughout 2024. Featuring inspiring clips from guests like Jenny Leone, who turned her struggles into a voice for vulnerability and strength, and Megan Larsen, who transformed her life through sobriety and discipline, this episode is a testament to the transformative power of recovery.

Each guest brings a unique perspective to the journey of overcoming addiction. From Natalie King’s reflections on finding purpose to Arlina Allen’s insights into breaking barriers in sobriety, these stories highlight the shared experiences of hope, healing, and empowerment. Jeanine Coulter and Kat Lyons discuss the role of community and spirituality in their recoveries, while Brandy Ledford and Mary Tilson inspire with their journeys of self-discovery and personal growth.

This episode is not just a compilation; it’s a celebration of the power of shared experiences. Whether it’s the struggle with alcohol, drugs, or other personal battles, these women prove that no challenge is insurmountable. Join us as we honor their courage and invite you to find hope in their stories.

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