Michael & Miquelle Franzese: Leaving The Mob for God | The Hopeaholics Podcast 

In this powerful episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, we sit down with Michael Franzese, a former captain of the Colombo crime family, who once ranked among the most powerful mob bosses in America. Known for his business acumen and ability to navigate the dangerous waters of organized crime, Michael left behind a life of corruption and violence, defying the odds by walking away without entering witness protection. Today, he is a man of faith, an author, and a motivational speaker, using his experiences to inspire hope and change in others.

Joining Michael is his daughter, Miquelle Franzese, who shares her perspective on growing up with a father whose past was marked by crime and redemption. Miquelle opens up about her family’s journey through challenges, faith, and healing. She reflects on the resilience it takes to rebuild relationships and the role her father’s transformation has played in her life.

Michael shares his journey from being one of Fortune magazine’s "50 Most Powerful Mob Bosses" to becoming a devoted family man and servant of God. He discusses how faith, forgiveness, and perseverance helped him leave the mob life behind and find a greater purpose. Miquelle offers unique insights into navigating a family dynamic shaped by her father’s complicated history, highlighting the impact of faith and love in overcoming challenges.

This episode also delves into sensitive topics like addiction, the opioid crisis, mental health struggles, and grief, as well as the struggles of self-forgiveness and finding purpose after a life of regret.

This conversation is a testament to the power of second chances, the strength of family, and the hope that faith can provide. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, insight, or a reminder of the human capacity for change, this episode is a must-watch.

Follow us on all our social media platforms down below

INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D

SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/

TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com

Getting Your Loved One Into Treatment with Dr. Brian Licuanan | The Hopeaholics Podcast

In this insightful episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, we welcome Dr. Brian Licuanan, a licensed psychologist with nearly two decades of experience in mental health and substance use disorders. Dr. Licuanan opens up about his professional journey and how his passion for psychology has shaped his career in helping individuals and families overcome life's most challenging obstacles.

Dr. Licuanan dives deep into the topic of addiction, sharing his expertise on how to address substance use disorders effectively. He highlights the importance of using evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and CBT for Insomnia (CBT-I) to improve both mental and physical well-being. His insights provide a beacon of hope for those struggling and their loved ones seeking answers.

As the author of How to Get Your Resisting Loved One into Treatment: A Step-by-Step Guide, Dr. Licuanan shares practical tools and strategies for families facing the heartbreaking realities of addiction. His compassionate approach empowers listeners to take actionable steps toward recovery and healing.

Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Licuanan advocates for integrating physical fitness into mental health care. A competitor in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a multiple IBJJF champion, he believes in the transformative power of exercise and discipline in fostering resilience and emotional strength.

Follow us on all our social media platforms down below

INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D

SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/

TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com

Michael Chernow: The Ultimate Kreature of Habit | The Hopeaholics Podcast

Join us on this powerful episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast as we welcome Michael Chernow—entrepreneur, restaurateur, wellness advocate, and founder of several successful ventures. Michael is the visionary behind The Meatball Shop, a creative chain redefining comfort food, Seamore’s, a sustainable seafood restaurant, and Kreatures of Habit, a lifestyle brand promoting healthier habits.

Michael opens up about his journey from a tumultuous childhood marked by abuse and addiction to becoming a successful business owner and a hunter of life's possibilities. Discover how he overcame substance abuse, redefined his life through sobriety, and found healing through mindfulness, a connection to nature, and the daily routines that anchor his recovery. From near-death experiences to embracing resilience, Michael shares valuable insights on self-awareness and transformation.

Michael also dives into his passion for hunting, highlighting its role in fostering sustainability and mindfulness. He reflects on how his love for food and fitness has shaped not just his career, but his mission to inspire others to live healthier, more intentional lives.


Follow us on all our social media platforms down below

INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D

SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/

TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com

Dr. Elizabeth Zona: US Healthcare’s Struggle with Addiction | The Hopeaholics Podcast

In this enlightening episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Elizabeth Zona—an anesthesiologist turned addiction medicine specialist. Dr. Zona shares her unique journey from managing airways in trauma centers to addressing the complex challenges of addiction recovery. Her story is one of transformation, resilience, and a deep commitment to making a difference in a field fraught with stigma.

Dr. Zona dives into the challenges of addiction in the medical field, discussing the stigma that often prevents healthcare professionals from seeking help. She reflects on the biases faced by both patients and doctors in recovery, highlighting the systemic obstacles that hinder progress. She also explains why understanding the neurobiology of addiction is essential for breaking down misconceptions and providing effective care, emphasizing that addiction is not simply a choice but a complex condition requiring empathy and education.

The conversation sheds light on systemic barriers to treatment, such as restrictive insurance policies, time limitations during patient care, and the pervasive influence of Big Pharma. Dr. Zona shares her frustrations with how these issues limit the ability of healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive care and how they perpetuate a cycle of dependency rather than recovery.

She also opens up about her personal motivation for pivoting into addiction medicine, driven by the loss of a childhood friend to the opioid crisis. This tragedy sparked her determination to create meaningful change and inspired her advocacy for better resources and education in addiction care. Through her work, Dr. Zona honors the memory of her friend and strives to prevent similar losses for other families.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Zona highlights the resilience and strength of individuals in recovery, describing how their transformation fuels her passion for her work. She emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to recovery, including community support, therapy, medication, and spirituality, as key components to overcoming addiction.

Follow us on all our social media platforms down below

INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D

SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/

TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com

Christina Garafalo: The Empowerment of Rewording | The Hopeaholics Podcast

In this raw and powerful episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, we welcome Christina Garafalo to share her incredible journey from the depths of addiction to becoming a beacon of hope and advocacy. Christina’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and empowerment, and her candid recounting of her experiences will leave you inspired.

Christina opens up about her early struggles with body image and self-esteem, which led to substance abuse at a young age. From battling addiction to meth, heroin, and other substances, to surviving homelessness, violence, and even sex trafficking, Christina’s story sheds light on the harsh realities many face in addiction.

Through moments of unimaginable pain—hospitalizations, near-death experiences, and countless relapses—Christina found the strength to reclaim her life. With the support of programs like Serenity House, therapy, and her unwavering faith, she underwent a profound spiritual awakening that set her on a path of healing.

Follow us on all our social media platforms down below

INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D

SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/

TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com

Lauren Shortt: Selling The Sobriety | The Hopeaholics Podcast


In this compelling episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, we sit down with Lauren Shortt, a real estate agent and former cast member of the hit reality TV show Selling The OC. Lauren opens up about her journey to sobriety, detailing how a pivotal moment during a blackout led her to reach out for help and start a life-changing path toward recovery. She shares insights into her family background, growing up with a mother who struggled with addiction and the lessons she learned from her single father about resilience and independence.


Lauren dives into her transition from working in her family’s business to pursuing a career in real estate, ultimately landing a spot on one of Netflix’s most popular reality shows. She reflects on the challenges of navigating a high-drama reality TV environment while staying true to her sober and grounded identity.


Beyond her career and television experience, Lauren is a passionate advocate for sobriety and personal growth. She discusses the power of surrendering to a higher power, the importance of observing and learning from others in recovery, and her commitment to helping those struggling with addiction. Her story is one of resilience, authenticity, and the pursuit of peace of mind.


Join us for an inspiring conversation that explores Lauren’s journey, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and her mission to spread hope and encouragement to others. This is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Follow us on all our social media platforms down below


INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D


SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098


FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/


TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com

The Reality of First Responders' Mental Health with Mark & Jeff | The Hopeaholics Podcast

In this compelling episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, we sit down with Mark and Jeff—two dedicated firefighters and advocates for change—to uncover the hidden struggles and triumphs of life as first responders.

Mark and Jeff candidly discuss the harsh realities of their profession, from chronic understaffing and overwhelming workloads to the alarming rates of depression and suicide among firefighters. They shed light on the stigma surrounding mental health in first responder communities and the barriers that prevent many from seeking help.

Mark, a candidate for union president, and Jeff, his trusted collaborator, are on a mission to reform their union with a business-minded and community-focused approach. They aim to address systemic issues, such as resource shortages and ineffective leadership, while advocating for better mental health support and improved working conditions for their fellow firefighters.

Both Mark and Jeff share personal stories of struggle and growth, highlighting the importance of finding purpose in their work and lives. From stepping into leadership roles to creating meaningful change, their journey is an inspiring testament to resilience and service.

Mark and Jeff also explore how leveraging private sector expertise can fill critical gaps in mental health resources, ensuring firefighters and first responders have access to timely, effective support when they need it most.

Follow us on all our social media platforms down below

INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D

SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/

TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com

Mike McKim: There's No Right Way to Grief | The Hopeaholics Podcast


In this powerful episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, we’re joined by Mike McKim, the visionary behind Cuvee Coffee, one of Texas's most beloved coffee brands. Known for his innovative approach to coffee roasting, Mike shares the journey of building Cuvee from the ground up, focusing on quality and transparency in every cup. From setting industry standards to shaping the nitro cold brew market, Mike has built a brand that stands for more than just coffee—it’s a testament to dedication, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. Through this journey, he emphasizes the importance of community, direct trade relationships, and making a positive impact on the lives of coffee farmers.


However, beyond the business success, Mike’s story takes a deeply personal turn as he opens up about the tragic loss of his son, Connor. In a heart-wrenching recounting of his journey through grief, Mike describes how losing Connor reshaped his world, forcing him to confront life in a way he never expected. This episode goes beyond business as Mike shares the emotional challenges he faced in the wake of his son’s death, including grappling with immense pain and searching for ways to honor Connor's memory.


Mike’s story is one of resilience, hope, and rediscovery. He speaks about the process of redefining his purpose, finding meaning in his pain, and channeling his grief into positive action. For Mike, this journey has been one of growth and reflection, and he’s committed to helping others who may be facing similar struggles. Through his vulnerability, he offers listeners a perspective on finding hope amid heartbreak, and how we can all learn to carry forward the legacies of those we’ve lost.


Follow us on all our social media platforms down below


INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D


SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098


FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/


TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com

Nisha Patel: Mental Health Within Our Culture | The Hopeaholics Podcast #186 

In this enlightening episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, we welcome Nisha Patel, a dedicated licensed professional counselor and sober coach with a master’s degree in mental health counseling. Nisha is certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and hypnotherapy, and she brings a unique approach to therapy by incorporating her own personal development journey into her work with clients. With a deep belief in God, she also advocates for fitness, a balanced diet, and a holistic approach to well-being.

Nisha shares her insights on mental health, her journey to becoming a sober coach, and the tools she uses to help individuals reclaim their lives. Her holistic approach emphasizes the importance of faith, fitness, and emotional healing as key components of a fulfilling, sober lifestyle. Join us for an inspiring conversation that goes beyond traditional therapy, offering a fresh perspective on the path to personal growth and sobriety.

Follow us on all our social media platforms down below

INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D

SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/

TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com

Dr. Russell Surasky: The Book That Will Save Your LIFE | The Hopeaholics Podcast

In this insightful episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Russell Surasky, a distinguished neurologist and addiction medicine specialist, who sheds light on innovative approaches to treating opioid addiction. Dr. Surasky combines his expertise in neurology with groundbreaking addiction treatments, exploring how opioid addiction affects the brain and sharing his unique neurological methods for sustainable recovery. Known for his progressive approach, Dr. Surasky emphasizes the importance of understanding addiction from a neurological standpoint to achieve more effective results.

Dr. Surasky also shares insights from his groundbreaking book, This Book Will Save Your Life: The New Medical Cure for Opioid Addiction, a life-changing guide filled with methods to combat opioid addiction at its core. He complements his advanced medical practices by emphasizing the importance of the 12-step process, illustrating how traditional recovery frameworks work hand-in-hand with scientific advancements. This episode offers a comprehensive look into the future of addiction recovery and the timeless strength found in community support.

Follow us on all our social media platforms down below

INSTAGRAM : https://www.instagram.com/thehopeaholics/?igshid=Mzc1MmZhNjY%3D

SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4diCrlmIyqrkE2e22mFgU1?si=2df7f5920f944098

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/thehopeaholicspodcast/

TREATMENT : https://www.hopebythesea.com