The Loving Leverage Podcast

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What if you could understand and heal the deepest parts of yourself that have been shaped by trauma and addiction? Join us on the Valiant Living Podcast as we welcome back Michael Simms, a dedicated therapist with over 11 years of sobriety. With a heartfelt journey from the service industry to becoming the Director of Outpatient Services for the Meadows in Denver, Michael shares how the tragic loss of his cousin and his sister's struggle with addiction fueled his passion for therapy. His story is one of resilience, recovery, and unwavering commitment to helping others find healing.

In our conversation, we explore the transformative power of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, delving into advanced clinical modalities like Polyvagal Theory and NARM. Michael explains how recognizing and compassionately addressing the different parts of ourselves formed through trauma can lead to profound healing. We discuss the importance of understanding clients' nervous systems and how this knowledge can guide them through states of fight, flight, or dissociation to a place of relaxation and safety. The emphasis on compassion within IFS therapy is a crucial element, shedding light on the necessity of integrating even the less pleasant parts of oneself for effective recovery.

Further, we delve into the concept of the "core self" within IFS therapy, contrasting it with the subpersonalities developed as defense mechanisms. Michael highlights the eight C's—such as connection, confidence, and compassion—that help bring forth the core self, free from past burdens. Through heartfelt personal anecdotes and professional insights, Michael illustrates how addressing childhood wounds, navigating inner conflicts, and embracing community support play pivotal roles in fostering growth and emotional resilience. This episode offers an illuminating look at the journey of healing addiction and perfectionism with IFS, providing listeners with valuable insights and hope.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

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Ever wondered what happens when an NFL star tackles his toughest opponent yet—addiction? Former NFL running back Montee Ball joins us on the Valiant Living Podcast to share his remarkable life story. From the excitement of night games and winning a Big Ten Championship to the often unseen struggles of addiction, Montee opens up about his journey with raw honesty. He offers a unique perspective on why he finds the atmosphere of college sports more engaging than the professional scene and reveals how the pre-game hype fueled his performance on the field.

Montee’s journey takes a profound turn as he candidly discusses his battle with addiction, a struggle that began in his college years and led him to some of his darkest moments. Encouraged by his therapist to journal his thoughts, Montee wrote over 80,000 words, which became a cornerstone of his recovery process. A pivotal moment came when he watched his former team win the Super Bowl from a jail cell, a stark wake-up call that pushed him to confront his issues head-on with the unwavering support of his family. This episode underscores the importance of seeking help and the transformative power of becoming a recovery coach.

In our final segment, we explore how Montee applies the discipline and perseverance from his athletic career to his recovery journey. He sheds light on the importance of opening up about personal struggles, the role of faith, and the blend of spirituality with self-accountability in his healing process. Montee also emphasizes creating spaces where men can openly share their vulnerabilities, fostering genuine connections, and promoting healing. Tune in to hear Montee's inspiring insights on resilience, the ongoing journey towards peace, and the power of showing up consistently.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

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Ever wondered how true brotherhood can be the bedrock of recovery? In this powerful episode of the Valiant Living Podcast, Drew Powell sits down with alumni Jonathan to explore the emotional highs and lows of addiction recovery. From the first, nerve-wracking day at the PHP house to the unexpected camaraderie that blossomed, Jonathan recounts his path from skepticism and anxiety to profound internal transformation. We delve into the raw, unfiltered emotions experienced during early recovery days, emphasizing the critical role of continuous support and the challenging journey towards self-discovery.

Curious about the pivotal moments that can shape a person's journey out of addiction? Listen as Jonathan opens up about the intense vulnerabilities and struggles he faced, including confronting intimacy disorders and dealing with the awkwardness of forging genuine connections. Hear about the importance of family support and how love and communal guidance were integral to maintaining sobriety. These candid stories, woven with moments of humor and camaraderie, provide a heartfelt look into the complexities of addiction and the enduring power of community.

What does life look like after 20 months of sobriety? Drew and Jonathan reflect on the ups and downs post-recovery, highlighting that the road to sobriety is far from a smooth ride but filled with incredible moments of growth and gratitude. They share practical advice for those at the beginning of their recovery journey, stressing the importance of vulnerability, faith, and the continuous effort required to stay clean and sane. Tune in to hear about transformative experiences, such as a memorable hike in El Dorado Canyon and the humorous reality of balancing spirituality with everyday life, all underscoring the ongoing journey towards healing and self-improvement.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

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From the rich soil of a Northwest Ohio farm to the heart of Valiant Living’s recovery community, Dan Meyer's story unfolds with raw honesty and deep insight. Our latest episode features this beloved therapist and program alumnus, affectionately known as Coach or Uncle Dan, who shares the riveting tale of his transformation from an athlete with coaching dreams to a guiding light for many grappling with addiction. His early competitive spirit, influenced by family ties, set the stage for a life filled with both triumphs and tribulations, including an identity crisis, a battle with addiction, and a profound journey towards self-acceptance.

Dan Meyer opens up about the personal challenges he faced, drawing us into his world where validation and connection clashed with his struggle for self-love. Navigating the trials of ADHD and academic pressures, Dan's story is a powerful illustration of how one can turn adaptive survival strategies into stepping stones for growth. His candid discussion about the pitfalls of needing constant affirmation and the pattern of 'rescuing' others provides a stark glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and the transformative power of confronting deep-seated issues.

Our conversation culminates in a reflection on rebirth and the courage it takes to forge a new identity. Dan's transition from an athletic director to a role that champions humility and service is a poignant reminder of life's second acts. He shares the wisdom gained from pivotal moments that reshaped his life, offering encouragement and salient advice for anyone facing career shifts or identity redefinition. This episode is a compelling narrative of change, resilience, and the discovery of joy in the unexpected chapters of life.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

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Embarking on a journey through the complex tapestry of the human experience, we're joined by the unparalleled Amanda, whose life story unravels in our latest podcast episode. Her voice resonates with the wisdom of someone who's walked through fire and emerged not just intact, but reborn. She candidly delves into the intricate process of writing her book, a two-year odyssey of perseverance and the sweet agony of creation, while balancing her roles as a podcaster and recovery worker. Amanda's narrative is a beacon for anyone who's ever feared that their dreams might remain just beyond reach, illustrating the profound impact of dedication and the beauty of seeing a vision through to the end.

Amanda's raw and powerful recount of her battle with addiction, and her transformative journey to sobriety since relocating to Colorado, paints a portrait of a soul forged in the fires of self-discovery. Having navigated the stormy seas of substance abuse, her insights into the fears of creativity's loss in sobriety and the surprising discovery of authentic connections are nothing short of inspirational. The conversation navigates through the heart of grief, as Amanda shares how her profound losses have not only shaped her but also brought about an unexpected sense of clarity and direction in her life. Her story is a reminder that our most trying moments often serve as the catalysts for our greatest growth.

As the episode draws to a close, we're left with a sense of gratitude for the vulnerability and profundity Amanda has brought into our space. The episode is a testament to Valiant Living's mission to educate, encourage, and empower individuals on their paths to peace and freedom. Her journey of overcoming grief and confronting generational dysfunction invites listeners to reflect on their own narratives and the strength that can be found within a community. We wrap up with an open invitation to our audience: join the conversation, reach out for support, and allow Amanda's story to be a guiding light in your own journey towards healing and transformation.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

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Embarking on the road to recovery is a tale of strength and vulnerability, marred by moments of humor and harrowing struggle. It's a narrative I know all too well, inviting you to walk alongside my guest and me, fellow Valiant Living program alumni, as we recount our personal odysseys from the grip of addiction to the embrace of sobriety. We kick things off with a light-hearted memory of a recovery walk that went awry with hot dogs, but quickly delve into the sober realities of our pasts. Our stories are a candid testament to the resilience required to overcome a life shaded by substance abuse.

Tune in for an intimate exploration of the forces that can steer a life towards addiction. My guest shares the complex interplay of a strict religious upbringing and early experiments with intoxication, charting his course from a childhood sip of beer to a descent into the shadows of methamphetamine abuse. He opens up about the personal struggles that fueled his addiction, from battling demons of low self-esteem to the impact of economic hardship on parenting. It's a raw look at the intricate web of circumstances that can trap someone in the cycle of dependency, and the daunting but necessary journey towards redemption.

Our conversation takes a turn down the rocky road of recovery, where success is measured in daily battles won against the lure of relapse. We discuss the critical importance of support systems like Narcotics Anonymous and the personal resolve it takes to maintain sobriety amidst life's trials, including loss during the COVID-19 pandemic and the pain of family estrangement. Our episode offers an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of self-reflection and the courage it takes to seek help. This is our story, but it's also a beacon of hope for anyone who might see themselves in the chapters of our lives.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

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Imagine embarking on a journey where every step forward is a triumph over personal demons and past struggles. That's the remarkable path of JR, who joins us once again on the Valiant Living podcast, to share his inspirational climb from case manager to Director of Detox and Assessment. His story is a beacon of hope and a vivid illustration of the transformative power of our program—not only for those in our care but also for the dedicated individuals who work alongside them. As JR opens up about the challenges he's faced, his passion for the nurturing, nature-wrapped approach of our detox program shines through, setting the stage for a conversation filled with heart and earnest dedication.

The landscape of addiction treatment is often fraught with despair, but it is precisely in these depths that the smallest glimmers of hope can ignite a life-changing journey. Through the voices of our detox technicians and the recounting of a moving intervention, we explore the essence of empathy, the cornerstone of Valiant Living's philosophy. The episode weaves tales of resilience and the power of secondary intervention, spotlighting the critical and ongoing support needed to prevent relapse. It's a candid look at the human side of substance use disorder and the compassionate, professional care it demands.

Concluding the episode, we offer a rare glimpse into the delicate process of medically supervised detoxification and the dangers of facing depressant withdrawal alone. We share success stories that resonate with the healing and redemption that unfolds within our residential programs. These narratives aren't just about recovery; they're about the renewal of families and the revitalization of communities. They're about taking that vital first step toward a life of peace and freedom, knowing that the Valiant Living team is there to guide and support every inch of the way.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Send us Fan Mail

Embark on a journey with us and the remarkable Malissa F, Wellness Director at Valiant Living who returns to the Valiant Living podcast to share her profound insights into outdoor therapy's role in addiction and mental health recovery. Imagine replacing the confines of a therapist's office with the boundless expanse of nature as we explore how the sensory symphony of the outdoors can dramatically shift emotions and perspectives. From the adrenaline rush of a cold plunge to the reflective tranquility of a silent hike, our conversation traverses personal stories and the innovative "pumpkin haul" exercise, showcasing the ingenious ways these activities are woven into the fabric of recovery at Valiant Living. 

This episode is a celebration of rediscovering joy and community through the simple act of play, especially poignant for men over 25 who often overlook its value. We highlight the nuanced art of mindfulness achieved in nature, detailing how silent hikes and journaling under the canopy of trees can foster spiritual connections, even for those ambivalent towards traditional beliefs. Tailoring outdoor therapy to suit various abilities and needs, we emphasize inclusivity, support, and the heartwarming transformations our clients experience. Whether you're contemplating a morning walk to kickstart your day or a career change towards the fulfilling realm of outdoor therapy, this conversation is an open invitation to ground yourself in nature's embrace and discover the serenity and freedom that awaits outside your door.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Send us Fan Mail

Recovery isn't a straight line; it's a mosaic of triumphs, setbacks, and revelations that shape us into who we are. Embark on a motivational journey with Jake, whose candid account of overcoming addiction through the Valiant Living program will touch your heart and ignite your spirit. Our conversation traverses the landscape of personal growth, as Jake speaks to the essence of humility in sobriety, dismantles initial doubts about the program, and celebrates the ‘Valiant Difference’ — a blend of support, camaraderie, and unexpected moments of joy, like the surprise call from Jill that underscores the community's tight-knit fabric.

Ever caught yourself wondering how certain habits sneak into our lives and cling like shadows? Jake's intimate reflection on his battle with unhealthy coping mechanisms pulls back the curtain on a topic that many grapple with in silence. He traces his own behaviors back to their roots, recounting the voids that gambling filled, and the courage it took to confront his issues head-on. His story is a powerful testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the cathartic release of acknowledging one's struggles, and the indelible impact of a supportive network through the monumental shifts of recovery.

As we step behind the closed doors of intensive therapy, Jake sheds light on the resilience of the human spirit. He details the rigorous routine of group sessions, individual therapy, and 12-step meetings that carved his path to self-awareness, alongside the transformative power of emotional intelligence and empathy. Further, he underscores the significance of holistic practices and the practical tools he gained for managing anxiety and life's myriad pressures. Infused with hope and actionable guidance, this episode is an open invitation to anyone seeking to embrace change and cultivate a fulfilling, sober life.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Send us Fan Mail

The raw, unfiltered bonds of family take center stage as my daughter Emory Powell and I tear down the walls of silence surrounding addiction. Together, we navigate the turbulent emotions that come with a parent's struggle with addiction. Emory, with a courage that humbles me, shares the world she knew—a reality marked by my battles and her own resilience. She speaks to the heart of what many children in her shoes feel but are seldom heard, offering a beacon of hope to those still trapped in the shadows of familial addiction.

Confronting the chaos that addiction wreaks on a family, this episode is a deep, emotional journey through the eyes of both the sufferer and the ones who love them most. I lay bare the personal narratives crafted in search of stability, the critical moments of tough love that pushed me towards acceptance and healing, and the night of prayer that turned the tides. This chapter of our lives is a testament to the power of family intervention and the faith that can either bind or break us as we claw our way back to trust and understanding.

In an honest exploration of the long road to mending relationships, Emory and I examine the delicate dance of rebuilding trust, the catharsis of writing heartfelt letters, and the therapeutic support that is so crucial in these times. We recognize the non-linear path of healing, the importance of empathy and personal accountability, and the guiding hand of therapy in a child's journey through a parent's absence. This episode, steeped in raw emotion and hard-earned wisdom, is a message of hope and dedication to anyone working to reconnect the familial ties strained by addiction's relentless grip.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.