In this powerful episode of  The Clearly Well Podcast, we sit down with Avery Nix, also known as The Recovery Speaker on Instagram, to dive deep into the topic of self-sabotage. Avery candidly shares his personal journey through recovery and how self-destructive patterns often stand in the way of growth and healing.

Through raw honesty and real-life experiences, Avery breaks down the mindset behind self-sabotage, why so many of us fall into it, and—most importantly—how to break free. Whether you're in recovery, struggling with self-doubt, or simply looking for ways to stop holding yourself back, this conversation is full of wisdom and encouragement.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion that reminds us all: healing is possible, and change starts with self-awareness.

🎧 Listen now on The Clearly Well Podcast!

In todays short sesh I cover the tragic story of Whitney Houstons death. In 2022, People Magazine revisited the tragic death of Whitney Houston, highlighting that on February 11, 2012, the iconic singer was found unresponsive in the bathtub of her suite at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, just a day before the Grammy Awards. She was pronounced dead at 3:55 p.m. local time. An autopsy determined that her death was caused by accidental drowning, with heart disease and cocaine use as contributing factors. Houston was 48 years old at the time of her passing. Tragically, her daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown, died in a similar manner three years later.

Welcome to The ClearlyWell Podcast, where we explore mental health, and its relationship to substance use disorder. I welcome you to listen into the journey to a healthier mind and body. In today’s episode, we’re diving into an important but often misunderstood topic—food addiction. The question is....is it a TRUE addiction. We invite you to weigh in at the [email protected]

Many people struggle with an intense, compulsive relationship with food, driven not just by hunger but by emotional triggers, stress, and even brain chemistry. But what exactly is food addiction? How does it impact our physical and mental well-being? And most importantly, what can be done to overcome it?

Join us as we speak with experts in nutrition, psychology, and recovery to unpack the science behind food addiction, share real-life experiences, and explore practical steps toward a healthier relationship with food. Whether you or someone you love is facing this challenge, this episode will provide insight, support, and strategies for lasting change.

In Season 2, Episode 3 of the ClearlyWell Podcast, John Roquemore shares his inspiring story of long-term recovery. His testimony is a candid exploration of the trials, lessons, and triumphs of overcoming addiction and mental health challenges. John delves into the struggles he faced, including moments of despair, and reflects on what true recovery means. His story serves as a beacon of hope for those in similar situations and offers valuable insights into resilience, healing, personal growth and most importantly his journey to finding God though recovery at The Lighthouse with Ashley York
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about suicide and may be sensitive for some listeners.

Our special guest, Heather C., shares her incredible journey of recovery.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses topics of physical and sexual abuse.

Heather’s story is one of resilience and transformation. She is now in long-term recovery after overcoming challenges including incarceration. Heather’s success was made partially possible through the program in the Accountability Courts of North Georgia, which played a pivotal role in her path to healing and stability.

story that highlights the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

In Episode 1, we’re honored to feature Tim Snyder, a remarkable individual whose testimony to recovery is nothing short of transformative. Tim’s journey through the challenges of addiction and mental health struggles to a place of hope and renewal is a story that will resonate deeply with anyone who has ever faced adversity.

As we delve into Tim’s experience, you’ll hear about the pivotal moments that shaped his path, the lessons he learned along the way, and the powerful role that community and self-determination played in his recovery. His story is not only a testament to the possibility of change but also a reminder that recovery is a journey worth celebrating.

Whether you’re tuning in for inspiration, information, or a sense of connection, this episode promises to deliver all that and more. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and join us as we explore Tim Snyder’s incredible story of transformation and triumph.

Let’s get started!

Welcome to Episode 71 of the Talkin’ Trash Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving deep into some of the most pressing issues in the addiction and recovery world.

Our guest today is Elizabeth McKeon, a dedicated advocate and expert in the field of addiction recovery. Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience and insight, having worked tirelessly to support individuals and families navigating the challenges of addiction. Her perspective is both compassionate and informed, making her a powerful voice in the conversation about what it truly takes to create meaningful change.

Together, we’ll explore topics ranging from the barriers people face in accessing treatment to the systemic changes needed to improve outcomes in recovery. Elizabeth’s candid and thought-provoking approach will shed light on some of the toughest realities while also offering hope and actionable solutions.

Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the addiction and recovery landscape, this episode promises to deliver valuable insights and inspiration.

So settle in and get ready for an engaging conversation with Elizabeth McKeon on Episode 71 of the Talkin’ Trash Podcast. Let’s get started!

In todays super short sesh, we hash out a touchy subject on Marijuana.

The concept of marijuana as a "gateway drug" is debated, with arguments on both sides, so let's dive into the pros and cons of this perspective:

1. Potential Path to Harder Substances: Some research suggests that early marijuana use, particularly in adolescents, may increase the likelihood of experimenting with more harmful drugs later, such as opioids or stimulants.
2. Behavioral Reinforcement: For some individuals, marijuana use might lower inhibitions or normalize drug-seeking behaviors, making it easier to transition to other drugs.
3. Biological Susceptibility: Marijuana can influence brain chemistry, especially in young people, making the brain more susceptible to other drugs.
4. Social Environment: Marijuana use may expose users to social environments where other, harder substances are present, increasing the likelihood of encountering and potentially using them.

1. Correlation, Not Causation: Many experts argue that marijuana doesn’t cause someone to use harder drugs, but that underlying factors like genetics, social environment, and mental health play a larger role in the progression of substance use.
2. Relative Safety Profile: Compared to other drugs, marijuana has a relatively low risk of overdose and physical dependence, which means that for some, it serves as an endpoint rather than a gateway.

In todays short sesh, I delve into medication assisted treatment.

Although some practitioners as well as lay people believe that medication assisted treat for SUD is a substitution for drug use or a band aid, I address in this short sesh both sides.

The goal of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is to effectively support individuals who struggle with substance use disorders by providing a comprehensive approach to treatment. This includes the use of FDA-approved medications in combination with counseling.

MAT Goals:

Reducing or eliminating the use of illicit substances: The primary goal of MAT is to help individuals overcome their dependence on drugs or alcohol. By using medication, MAT can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to abstain from substance use.

Improving overall health and well-being: Substance use disorders can have a significant impact on an individual’s physical and mental health. MAT aims to improve overall health by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

Supporting long-term recovery: MAT is not a short term solution, but rather a long-term treatment approach that supports sustainable recovery. By combining medication with therapy, individuals are more likely to maintain their sobriety.

Reducing the risk of relapse: Relapse is common among individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. MA, properly paired with Peer Support/or counseling has been shown to reduce the risk of relapse by helping individuals manage their cravings and maintain abstinence.

A critical topic! In todays short sesh I delve into the fact that mental health and substance use disorder continue to be treated separately. The division between mental health and substance use disorder treatments is a significant issue, especially given how frequently the two conditions intersect. Many healthcare systems still treat these as separate issues, despite the growing evidence that a dual-diagnosis approach—where both mental health and substance use disorders are addressed simultaneously—leads to better outcomes.