The Loving Leverage Podcast

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How often do we wear our pride like a heavy armor, only for it to lead us down a path of negativity and despair? If you've ever felt this, come join us for a candid and transformative conversation. Michael Dinneen, CEO and Founder of Valiant Living, shares his journey of letting go of shame, embracing vulnerability, and uncovering the liberating power of sharing secrets. It's a raw exploration of how this openness can foster genuine connections with others, which is a stepping stone to personal growth and recovery.

Forgiveness. It sounds simple, but it's so much more than just a word - it's a powerful force that can shape our lives and our mindset. We dive deep into the intricate link between forgiveness and recovery. The pride and pain an addict carries can often build walls around their heart. Knocking down these walls requires courage and forgiveness; we discuss why it's essential, not just for others but for ourselves too. It's about clearing the path for spiritual growth and a healthier mindset, allowing us to walk freely on the road to recovery.

Working on ourselves is undeniably important, but so are our relationships. This episode sheds light on the essence of healthy love and attachment. We talk about saying 'no' with love, and how that can be an essential part of a mature relationship. We also discuss the tricky business of handling tension and confrontation, and how authenticity in communication can make a world of difference. Wrapping it up, we delve into a critical discussion about the urgent need for addiction and mental health support in our society. Tune in to this enlightening conversation and embark on this journey of self-discovery and healing with us.

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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The struggle with addiction often feels like a lonely road. Today, we're privileged to have Brady, a Valiant Living alumni, who bravely shares his enigmatic journey from addiction, through recovery, and into a life of purpose and fulfillment. We venture deep into the dark corners of addiction as Brady lays bare the heartaches he encountered, prioritizing alcohol over family, and the resultant emotional regret and impact on his health.

We navigate the treacherous terrain of Brady's addiction, and the toll it took on his relationships, health, and life as he knew it. His story paints a grim picture of a man, caught in the relentless grip of addiction, facing the harsh realities of acute liver failure and a broken home. However, a silver lining emerges as Brady talks about finding strength in his lowest moments and beginning his recovery journey with courage and determination. 

Join us for this enlightening conversation, as we discuss the beauty of recovery and the promise of life after addiction. Brady's experiences with the Valiant Living program offer rays of hope, emphasizing the importance of mastering your emotions and leveraging the tools available for overcoming addiction. Whether you're fighting your own battles or know someone who is, this episode is a testament to the power of recovery and the possibility of a full and satisfying life post-addiction. Embrace this opportunity for transformation, inspired by Brady's journey, and remember, it's never too late to seek help.

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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Have you ever found yourself caught in the whirlwind of holiday season, feeling overwhelmed and understatedly anxious? Tune in to our latest episode as we navigate the bumpy road of addiction recovery during the festive season with our expert guest, therapist Bridget Filardi. With a decade long experience under her belt, Bridget enlightens us about the unique stressors that this time of year can bring, particularly for those on the recovery journey. Our candid conversation pinpoints the importance of self-care, acknowledging triggers, and finding healthy ways to process emotions, especially around family dynamics. 

When the holiday cheer meets the nasty bite of addiction, things can get tricky. We delve into the societal norms and pressures that come into play, such as the normalization of alcohol, which can be a massive hurdle for those in recovery. But fear not, we’ve got you covered with practical strategies like keeping a non-alcoholic drink in hand during social gatherings and practicing 'parts work' to manage cravings. Sobriety during the holiday season isn't easy, but it's certainly possible, and our discussion is laden with valuable insights to lend a helping hand.

Wrapping up the episode, we gravitate towards the role of gratitude and self-compassion in the recovery process. We share an uplifting conversation with a guest who’s found solace in these practices. The importance of taking the time to appreciate small joys and practicing kindness towards oneself is underscored, shedding light on how it can catalyze significant change. The journey to peace and freedom isn't a solitary one, and this episode is a gentle reminder of the importance of seeking support. Catch this episode of the Valiant Living Podcast for a fresh perspective and practical advice on navigating recovery during the holiday season.

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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Have you ever considered the deep-seated connection between gratitude and grief, especially in the light of overcoming addiction and cultivating sobriety? This episode explores this profound link through the eyes of our guest,  a therapist at Valiant Living, as he recounts his personal journey from addiction to recovery. His story encompasses a faith-based upbringing, the recognition of self-worth, and the importance of understanding and embracing one's past as key elements in his path to sobriety.

Dive into our raw and heartfelt conversation as we traverse the road of addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. Our guest's insight on practicing gratitude and grief not just as tools for recovery, but as pathways to deeper self-awareness and acceptance, is truly thought-provoking. Together, we also explore the concept of ho-oponopono, an ancient Hawaiian practice of forgiveness and relationship repair, underlining its potential as a healing tool in recovery.

Our discussion doesn't stop there; we delve into the critical role that a supportive community plays in aiding one's journey to sobriety. Hear our guest recount his experience of how his family's involvement and engagement became a pillar of strength throughout his recovery. As we wrap up this potent conversation, we reiterate the transformative power of forgiveness, gratitude, and community. Join us and learn how acknowledging your past, cultivating self-awareness, and fostering a supportive community can guide you on the road to finding your authentic self.

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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Join us for an engrossing conversation with Payton Smith, an inspiring figure from the Valiant Living community, as he bravely reveals his journey through addiction and into recovery. Our chat explores the initial signs that pointed Payton towards his own addiction, the fear of contemplating a life post-recovery, and his determination to make a fulfilling life for himself after addiction - an existence filled with joy, adventure, and a sense of achievement.

As we delve deeper into the realities of maintaining sobriety, particularly in social environments where alcohol is a constant, Payton offers invaluable insights on forging connections with like-minded individuals and harnessing the transformative power of radical honesty. We discuss how to find balance, joy, and adventure in sobriety, and how mindfulness practices can enhance our ability to live in the moment, thus enabling us to appreciate the smaller joys in life. Payton also speaks about how his role at Valiant Living has positively influenced his recovery journey.

We wrap up our enlightening conversation by reflecting on the significance of community events, such as the rally for recovery in Colorado. We delve into how such gatherings play a pivotal role in eradicating the stigma surrounding addiction and recovery. These events provide a safe space to celebrate recovery milestones and inspire those still battling addiction. So, brace yourselves for a heartfelt exchange about the trials, triumphs, and the undeniable joy of living a life in recovery.

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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Consider for a moment, your life spiraling out of control. What would it take to pull the brakes, make a U-turn and start over anew? Sharing his remarkable journey of recovery is Travis Simmons, who found his redemption in the midst of personal loss and addiction. From a life overshadowed by substances to a leadership role at Valiant Living, Travis opens up about his trials, tribulations, and triumphs.

Travis's story is the personification of resilience. An addiction that began in his formative years was the harbinger of a challenging life path. He paints a vivid picture of his time at the Denver Salvation Army ARC, a 96-bed men's facility, where discipline, structure, and a commitment to complete all 12 steps of recovery changed the course of his life. His experiences shaped his leadership style, advocating for a clean living environment, mental health, and the necessity of tough love in recovery.

As we journey with Travis to his role at Valiant Living, we learn about his novel perspective on recovery housing and its critical role in reintegrating individuals into everyday life. His experience has given him an incisive understanding of the fears and challenges that accompany transitions into a new living environment. Now, as the Director of Operations at Valiant Living, Travis uses his personal experience to help others transition seamlessly into new housing, fostering a sense of brotherhood and unity amidst the residents. And remember, it's never too late to seek help. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, the strength of the human spirit, and a beacon of hope for those in their darkest hours.

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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Are you ready to be moved by a tale of resilience? Brace yourself for an emotional roller-coaster as Dylan and Lily recount their heart-wrenching journey from addiction to recovery. With raw honesty, they share their experiences with addiction, the strenuous path to recovery, and how they navigated their lives after treatment. They unlock the door to their past, revealing the impact of their choices on their relationship.

Imagine hitting rock bottom, the point where the only choice left is to seek help or die. This was the reality for Dylan and Lily, who courageously open up about their lowest points, the intense process of detox and treatment, and the profound effects of loneliness and trauma. But, their story doesn't end in despair. In the latter part of this episode, they talk about their life after recovery, the newfound purpose they found in NA recovery meetings, and the significant role of connection in their journey.

You'll discover their grit as they prioritize recovery above all else, including their relationship and parenting. They reveal the courage it took to surrender and overcome addiction and how they found inspiration amid their struggles. Their story is a testament to the strength, resilience, and hope required to beat addiction. In Dylan and Lily's words, you will find encouragement and hope, especially if you feel distant from recovery. Don't miss this deeply stirring conversation about surrendering to the process and finding strength in vulnerability.

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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Have you ever considered the profound impact that the family of an addict has on their recovery journey? As your host, we sat down with Jill Gallegos, the lead therapist at Valiant Living, who provided an eye-opening perspective about the essential role of family in the process of addiction recovery. She walked us through her day-to-day endeavors, dealing with the shock, trauma, and sometimes manipulation involved when a loved one is battling addiction.

Her journey from a nursing background into becoming a licensed professional counselor, addiction counselor, and a family therapist is an inspiration. She brings to light how her personal experiences have shaped her approach in helping others in their recovery. We also look into the importance of structuring schedules in recovery and the significance of empathy and surrender in the process.

Our conversation ends with a discussion on the importance of breaking codependency and fostering open communication for healing. Jill outlines her vision for an alumni program, where past participants step up as temporary sponsors for newcomers. We also touch on rebuilding relationships, personal growth, and the importance of connection in recovery. We guarantee that this episode will leave you with a renewed understanding of addiction recovery and the key role of family in the process. Tune in to be a part of this enlightening conversation.

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

What if the key to overcoming addiction and mental health struggles was not just in the mind, but also in the body and the environment around us? This mesmerizing podcast episode promises a transformative journey through Valiant Living, unveiling how this unique program is bringing hope and revolutionary change to men and their families grappling with such challenges. Listen in as we discuss the struggle with resistance and anger, and how Valiant Living cultivates a safe haven for participants to find their path to healing. Communication is stressed as the lifeline of the program, and the nurturing of relationships emerges as a distinguishing aspect of the Valiant Living experience. 

We cast the spotlight on our guest, Melissa, a beacon of compassion and understanding. Bringing her unique skills and open heart to the table, she uses yoga nidra, mindfulness, yoga, and wilderness therapy as instruments of change. Hear how she fosters a sense of being seen, heard, and understood in participants, subtly weaving the fabric of trust and connection. We also navigate the equilibrium between activity and rest, underscoring the integral role of physical wellness programs at Valiant Living, encompassing high-intensity interval training, yoga, and mat pilates.

As we bring the episode to a close, we plunge into the enigmatic world of sound therapy and vibrational sound therapy, examining their impressive effects in purging negative energy. The importance of nature in the recovery process is highlighted through a participant's spiritual awakening during a three-day adventure to the sand dunes, demonstrating that peace, inner stillness, and present moment awareness can be found even amidst chaos. We invite you to listen, imbibe, and be spurred to action.

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

Ever stopped to ponder how former addicts reconstruct their lives, finding purpose and passion in the aftermath of their toughest times? Wonder no more. Today, we have the pleasure of welcoming JR, a former addict who now serves as a case manager at Valiant Living - an organization providing support for men and their families dealing with addiction and mental health struggles. This conversation delves deep into the challenging, yet immensely rewarding journey of recovery, reflecting on the crucial elements of trust, compassion, and patience throughout the process.

Transitioning to life post-recovery is often a path less traversed in recovery discussions. Yet, JR opens up about his own transition from working in a deli, where he honed communication skills, to becoming a pivotal part of the Valiant Living team. The conversation underscores the role of case management and life coaches in providing comprehensive care and guidance for those on their recovery journey, highlighting their impact beyond the walls of a treatment center.

Finally, we unpack the intricate dance of personal growth and the role of case management within a recovery context. How do case management, housing, and therapeutic teams collaborate to create a nurturing environment for clients? JR’s personal success story, along with his deep gratitude for the work he does through Valiant Living, will undoubtedly fill you with hope. Join us, and let this powerful conversation inspire you toward a life of peace and freedom.

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.