The Way Out | A Sobriety and Recovery Podcast

📬 Contact JohnEmail: [email protected]📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationBreathing Under Water: Spirituality and the Twelve Steps — Richard Rohrhttps://a.co/d/04c0D2qj💡 Best Piece of Recovery Advice“Trunk to Tail” A reminder to stay connected, stay grounded, and stay accountable.🌐 ResourcesRelevant Recovery — https://www.relevantrecovery.org/The Retreat — https://theretreat.org/programs/Hazelden Betty Ford — https://www.hazelden.org/store/welcomeMARRCH — https://www.marrch.org/Media Story on Recovery Ranch —https://thephoenixspirit.com/2024/09/founder-envisions-minnesotas-first-recovery-ranch/Recovery Ranch Project —https://www.relevantrecovery.org/recovery-ranch/🎵 Song That Symbolizes RecoveryPentatonix — Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) https://youtu.be/Obp-9BEZe1c?si=xe_STqS_S9m5YvO8🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, John Magnuson shares his powerful journey from alcohol addiction to a life of service, purpose, and spiritual growth. He reflects on his childhood, early exposure to alcohol, and the serious consequences that shaped his understanding of addiction. John discusses navigating early adulthood while balancing political aspirations and alcoholism, ultimately reaching a turning point that deepened his spiritual connection and commitment to recovery.John highlights the importance of community support, the lessons learned from business failures, and the transformative power of embracing new directions. He explores the complexities of privilege, the evolving language of recovery, and the need for authenticity and humility in communication. His work with Relevant Recovery and his vision for Minnesota’s first Recovery Ranch underscore his dedication to creating supportive environments for individuals and families.John emphasizes personalized recovery pathways, the evolution of peer support, and the healing power of music, literature, and daily routines. His insights reflect a deep understanding of the spiritual, emotional, and communal aspects of recovery.✨ Key TakeawaysJohn shares his journey of recovery from alcohol addiction.Serving the recovery community begins with maintaining personal sobriety.Recovery means finding love, happiness, and purpose.Childhood experiences shaped his understanding of addiction.Alcohol played a major role in his early life and consequences.Early adulthood involved balancing political ambitions and addiction.A turning point led to deeper spiritual understanding.Business failure prompted reevaluation and growth.Community support is essential in recovery.Embracing change opens unexpected opportunities.Personalized recovery pathways improve outcomes.Authentic communication fosters connection.Humility allows for acceptance and growth.Peer support must evolve to meet modern needs.Coaching families can create profound transformation.Supportive environments are crucial for healing.Daily routines strengthen sustainable recovery.Literature provides guidance and insight.Music is a powerful healing tool.Trusting the process and staying open to change is vital.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode=07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA (open.spotify.com in Bing)© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/

📬 Contact DanaEmail: [email protected]📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationThe Bible💡 Best Piece of Recovery Advice“Live every day until the day you die.”🎵 Song That Symbolizes Recovery“Amazing Grace”🌐 ResourcesRestore of Ada https://restoreofada.com/Biofeedback and Counseling, Inc. https://www.biofeedbackada.com/🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, host Jason sits down with Dana Hargus, a seasoned mental health therapist with more than 25 years of experience. Dana shares her journey into the recovery community and her passion for helping individuals transition from rehab back into everyday life. She highlights the challenges people face even after achieving sobriety — rebuilding relationships, reestablishing routines, and navigating the emotional complexities of early recovery.Dana explains her innovative therapeutic approach, integrating biofeedback and neurofeedback to help clients understand and regulate their brain activity. These techniques empower individuals to improve emotional stability, reduce anxiety, and strengthen their recovery foundation. She also discusses the limitations of traditional treatment models and how her integrative methods offer a fresh, hopeful perspective.Throughout the conversation, Dana emphasizes that recovery is a journey, not a destination — one that requires hope, patience, and ongoing support. Her insights illuminate the deeper needs behind addictive behaviors and the transformative power of addressing both the mind and body in healing.✨ Key Takeaways“Recovery is being able to find your best life despite where you’ve been.”People engage in addictive behaviors to meet unmet needs.“There is always hope… you didn’t get here in one day and you won’t get out in one day — but do not give up.”Changing the body can change the brain over time.Recovery requires adding healthy practices to balance the “teeter‑totter” of life.Biofeedback and neurofeedback help clients regulate brain function.Rebuilding life after rehab is challenging but deeply rewarding.Hope, support, and long‑term effort are essential for sustained recovery.Recovery is a personal journey that thrives on connection and compassion.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode=07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA (open.spotify.com in Bing)© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/

📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationLiving Sober https://www.aa.org/living-sober-book💡 Best Piece of Recovery AdviceWe don’t have to take ourselves so seriously all the time🎵 Song That Symbolizes Recovery“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” https://youtu.be/PSZxmZmBfnU🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, Marie Elden shares her remarkable recovery journey, which began on September 6, 1983. With more than 42 years of sobriety, Marie reflects on the foundational role of community, service, and simple, practical tools in sustaining long‑term recovery.She discusses her early life, her cultural transition to the United States, and the impact of alcoholism on her family dynamics. Marie emphasizes keeping recovery simple, using humor to navigate challenges, and prioritizing self‑care and health. She also shares her experience coping with profound grief after losing her son, offering wisdom on kindness, non‑judgment, and taking what works while leaving the rest.Marie’s story is one of resilience, humility, and the quiet power of showing up — day after day — for a life rebuilt through recovery.✨ Key TakeawaysMarie has been sober since September 6, 1983 — over 42 years.Community and service are central to her recovery.Keeping recovery simple makes it accessible and sustainable.Living Sober has been a crucial resource in her journey.Understanding family dynamics is essential in recovery.Kindness and non‑judgment help others feel safe and supported.Self‑care and health are vital parts of long‑term sobriety.Marie shares openly about coping with grief after losing her son.Humor and lightness help navigate difficult moments.“Take what works and leave the rest” remains one of her guiding principles.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode/07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/

📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationsDiana: Anything by Melody Beattiehttps://www.melodybeattie.com/books/Chris: The Big Book https://www.aa.org/the-big-book💡 Best Pieces of Recovery AdviceChris: Hit your knees and say please and thank youDiana: Do you want to be happy or do you want to be right? W.A.I.T — Why Am I Talking?🎵 Songs That Symbolize RecoveryDiana: That Wasn’t Me — Brandi Carlilehttps://youtu.be/cNmo8I4dEQE?si=BvUxQJkB897H3lN1Chris: Hurt — Johnny Cashhttps://youtu.be/8AHCfZTRGiI?si=TQnUr1IYK6iIK5iN🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, hosts Chris and Diana Albrecht open up about their personal recovery journeys, exploring how trauma, family dynamics, and community shaped their paths to sobriety. They share the transformative impact of the 311 retreat, a recovery experience centered on connection, healing, and spiritual growth.Chris and Diana reflect on the importance of spirituality, communication tools, and self‑compassion in sustaining long‑term recovery. Their stories highlight how family history influences addiction, how community provides essential support, and how recovery is ultimately about finding peace, purpose, and connection.✨ Key TakeawaysRecovery is about finding peace, not material success.Connection is the antidote to addiction; isolation is a trauma response.The 311 retreat offers a powerful healing experience.Community is essential for long‑term recovery.Family dynamics deeply influence recovery journeys.Understanding trauma is key to sustainable healing.Spiritual solutions help fill the void left by addiction.Recovery programs provide tools for better communication and relationships.Self‑compassion is necessary for growth.Recovery is continuous — it requires ongoing effort and support.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode/07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/

📬 Reach Out to TadSober Coach • Podcaster • YouTube Creator • Person in Long‑Term RecoveryInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/magicaltadrigal/🎧 PodcastWhat That Drink Cost Me Stories of alcohol’s impact — raw, honest, and transformativehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-that-drink-cost-me/id1829187266📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationBlackout: Remembering the Things I Drank to Forget — Sarah Hepolahttps://a.co/d/01aMU1qE💡 Best Piece of Recovery AdviceDon’t quit until the miracle happens🎵 Song That Symbolizes Recovery“Fight Song” — Rachel Platten https://youtu.be/xo1VInw-SKc?si=48NquIBaU6mEeQsz🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, Tad Hopp shares his powerful journey from alcohol addiction to over eight years of sustained sobriety. He reflects on the pivotal Thanksgiving incident that forced him to confront the truth about his drinking and seek help. Tad emphasizes the importance of community, vulnerability, and connection — the pillars that helped him rebuild his life.He discusses his work as a sober coach, the creation of his podcast What That Drink Cost Me, and how sharing stories helps others feel seen and supported. Tad also talks about discovering running as a healthy outlet, meeting his husband through a sober softball league, and the ongoing work of forgiving himself for past actions. His story highlights the transformative power of recovery and the miracles that unfold when you don’t give up.✨ Key TakeawaysTad has over eight years of sobriety.He serves the recovery community as a sober coach and podcaster.What That Drink Cost Me explores the real impact of alcohol.Community and connection are vital for recovery.A Thanksgiving incident was a turning point in Tad’s journey.Vulnerability is essential for healing.Running became a healthy outlet in sobriety.Tad met his husband through a sober softball league.Forgiveness of past actions is ongoing work.His story shows the transformative power of recovery.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode/07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/

🌐 Learn More About EmilyPerson in Long‑Term Recovery • Mother • Wife • AuthorWebsite: https://www.emilyredondoauthor.com/🧠 ACEs QuizUnderstand your Adverse Childhood Experiences:https://compassionprisonproject.org/take-the-ace-quiz/📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationsTwelve Steps and Twelve Traditions https://www.aa.org/twelve-steps-twelve-traditionsThe Big Book https://www.aa.org/the-big-book💡 Best Pieces of Recovery AdviceName it, claim it, and dump it Live and let live🎵 Songs That Symbolize Recovery“Telepath” — Manchester Orchestra https://youtu.be/-R4gSeY0XtY?si=WO1ZgAl_dm9D5RK1“This Train Don’t Stop There Anymore” — Elton John https://youtu.be/SsuHAn54wPs🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, Emily Redondo shares her powerful and deeply personal journey through addiction, relapse, and long‑term recovery. She reflects on growing up in a family affected by addiction, her early experiences with alcohol tied to feelings of inadequacy, and the moment she identified as an alcoholic — a turning point that reshaped her life.Emily discusses the emotional and physical complexities of addiction, including how relapse often begins long before the first drink. She emphasizes the importance of therapy, trauma work, and understanding the emotional landscape that fuels substance use. Creativity, authenticity, and honest conversations have been central to her healing.Her memoir, Wife, Mother, Drunk, offers a raw and insightful look into the life of an addict and the ongoing nature of recovery. Emily highlights forgiveness, the weight of resentments, and the symbolic role music plays in her journey. Her story is one of resilience, community, and the continuous work of becoming whole.✨ Key TakeawaysEmily shares her journey through addiction and recovery.Alcohol was her primary substance, creating significant struggles.Serving the recovery community is central to her healing.Recovery is a continuous process, not a finish line.Every recovery story is unique and deeply personal.Growing up in a family with addiction shaped her worldview.Moving to Texas was a major culture shock.Early drinking was tied to feelings of inadequacy.Identifying as an alcoholic was a pivotal moment.Addiction involves both physical dependence and emotional turmoil.Relapse often begins before the first drink.Hindsight can distort how we view past actions.Sobriety alone doesn’t solve underlying issues.Therapy is essential for understanding trauma.Feelings can be managed without substances.Creativity is a powerful outlet in recovery.Authenticity fosters connection and healing.Forgiveness is vital for personal growth.Resentments weigh heavily on recovery.Music can symbolize and support the recovery journey.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode/07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/

🌐 Learn More About ColetteExpert in personal transformation • Author published in 27 languagesCreator of 19 oracle decks • Author of 8 books, including her newest:The Art of Manifesting https://www.colettebaronreid.com/📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationsTwenty‑Four Hours a Day https://www.hazelden.org/store/item/1096?Twenty-Four-Hours-a-Day-Hardcover-24-HoursThe Big Book https://www.aa.org/the-big-book💡 Best Piece of Recovery AdviceYou only have to stay sober today🎵 Song That Symbolizes Recovery“Gold Dust Woman” — Fleetwood Mac https://youtu.be/EFUAI_tzfgU🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, Colette Baron‑Reid shares her extraordinary 40‑year recovery journey, weaving together spirituality, science, creativity, and community. She reflects on the transformative power of the 12 steps, the role of a higher power, and how desperation can become the catalyst for willingness and change.Colette discusses the science of consciousness and how our inner frequency shapes our outer experience. She highlights the importance of daily practices, alignment, and taking action — not just wishing — to manifest meaningful change. Her story emphasizes embracing one’s gifts, listening to divine guidance, and staying present in the moment.This conversation explores the intersection of spirituality and neuroscience, the healing power of creativity, and the profound impact of community support. Colette’s insights illuminate the ongoing journey of self‑discovery, recovery, and living authentically.✨ Key TakeawaysEmbracing your gifts and talents is essential in recovery.Connection to a higher power fosters authentic relationships.Desperation can be a gift that opens the door to willingness.Recovery is rooted in living in the present moment.Science and spirituality together deepen understanding of healing.Action is required to manifest real change.We broadcast a frequency that attracts similar energies.Daily practices keep us aligned with recovery goals.Listening to a higher power guides meaningful action.Community support is vital for long‑term sobriety.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode/07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/

🌐 More About JanelleDoctor of Functional Medicine • Brain Healer • Licensed CounselorFounder of The Mind Connection, a holistic mental‑health practice in Houston, TXhttps://mindconnection.org/📘 Janelle’s BookLosing Her, Finding Us: A Mother’s Fight, A Daughter’s Journey and the Road to Recovery https://a.co/d/7r17SHv📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationsHigh Achiever — Tiffany Jenkinshttps://a.co/d/75xRh9tBeyond the Yellow Brick Road: Our Children and Drugs — Bob Meehanhttps://a.co/d/aP86wue💡 Best Piece of Recovery AdviceLet it go🎵 Song That Symbolizes Recovery“My Story” — Big Daddy Weave https://youtu.be/1TKAN-nAsu8?si=ptrgvKQfllYiSSrs🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, Dr. Janelle Martin shares her powerful journey navigating the challenges of parenting a child with addiction. She reflects on the emotional toll, the trauma, and the long‑term commitment required for families to heal alongside their loved ones.Janelle emphasizes the importance of family recovery, unconditional love, and the need for sustained support systems. She discusses her holistic mind‑body approach at The Mind Connection, where she helps clients heal trauma, regulate emotions, and rebuild connection. Her book Losing Her, Finding Us bridges the gap between parent and child perspectives, offering hope, insight, and practical guidance for families walking the recovery path.Her message is clear: recovery is not an individual journey — it’s a family transformation rooted in compassion, education, and daily practices that strengthen resilience.✨ Key TakeawaysRecovery is strongest when families heal together.Addiction affects the entire family system.Parent meetings provide essential support and connection.Letting go is a crucial part of the healing process.Long‑term recovery is necessary for lasting change.Unconditional love thrives in recovery communities.Trauma plays a major role in addiction and healing.Writing her book helped bridge perspectives between parent and child.Holistic healing supports brain health and emotional regulation.Daily practices keep recovery grounded and sustainable.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode/07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/

📬 Connect with BoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bo.grossnickle.2025📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationsProverbsThe Normal Christian Life — Watchman Neehttps://a.co/d/hqlTDQm💡 Best Piece of Recovery AdviceProverbs 3:5–6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,And lean not on your own understanding;In all your ways acknowledge Him,And He shall direct your paths.🎵 Song That Symbolizes Recovery“Do It Again” — Elevation Worship https://youtu.be/0B_lnQIITxU?si=KTvZlMkfwDd4JS9I🌐 ResourcesBrother Bo Music — YouTubeGod Made Muzic — YouTube🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, Brother Bo shares a powerful and deeply spiritual account of his journey through addiction, despair, and redemption. He reflects on a moment of profound hopelessness while in jail — a moment where the consequences of addiction felt crushing and inescapable. Yet in that darkness, he experienced a transformative encounter: a voice offering hope, direction, and a new purpose.This moment became the catalyst for Bo’s recovery and his walk of faith. He describes how surrendering control opened the door to healing, how living for a higher purpose reshaped his life, and how sharing his testimony now helps others find hope in their own darkest moments. His story is one of redemption, spiritual awakening, and the belief that no one is beyond saving.✨ Key TakeawaysDespair can become the turning point toward change.Addiction creates deep feelings of hopelessness and regret.A moment of clarity can spark profound transformation.Faith can provide purpose, direction, and healing.Transformation often begins with surrender.Recovery is deeply personal and unique to each individual.Hope can emerge even in the darkest circumstances.Living for a higher purpose can radically change one’s life.Addiction’s impact is far‑reaching and devastating — but not final.Redemption is possible through faith, support, and perseverance.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode/07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/

📘 Featured WorkA Life Measured in SESSIONS: Sex, Fitness, and Self‑Destruction https://a.co/d/gsaPKMB📚 Recovery Literature (Quit‑Lit) RecommendationUnlimited Power: The New Science of Personal Achievement — Tony Robbinshttps://a.co/d/270LVVp💡 Best Piece of Recovery Advice“If you want to make something of yourself, make it happen where you are.”🎵 Song That Symbolizes Recovery“Someone Belonging to Someone” — Bee Gees https://youtu.be/WRAvVr-jpXw?si=Zy95g91rk362H66W🔎 Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Way Out Podcast, Craig Maltese shares his powerful and deeply introspective journey through addiction, recovery, and self‑discovery. He explores the complexities of sex addiction, the cultural attitudes surrounding fitness and masculinity, and how movement became both a coping mechanism and a pathway to healing.Craig discusses the importance of vulnerability, the evolution of relationships in sobriety, and the challenges of navigating intimacy while rebuilding trust. He reflects on the commercialization of the recovery industry, the need for honest conversations, and the role of personal stories in breaking stigma.The conversation also dives into the transformative power of yoga, fasting, and daily practices; the emotional anchor that movement provides; and the lifelong journey of humility, forgiveness, and growth. Craig emphasizes being present, choosing healthier options, and making the most of each moment — because recovery is not just about abstinence, but about becoming who you were meant to be.✨ Key TakeawaysCraig shares his journey through addiction and recovery.Movement plays a crucial role in recovery programs.Recovery is personal and unique to each individual.Sharing personal stories helps others heal.Sex addiction is often misunderstood and stigmatized.Childhood experiences can shape addiction patterns.Fitness can be a healthy outlet for stress and emotion.Navigating intimacy in recovery is challenging but essential.Vulnerability builds meaningful connections.The recovery industry struggles to address complex issues like sex addiction.Choosing healthier options improves mental health.Fitness can evolve from ego‑driven to holistic wellness.Understanding time and growth is key to personal development.Self‑discovery is ongoing and requires effort.Yoga deepens mind‑body connection.Movement anchors emotional stability.Humility and vulnerability are powerful healing tools.Restoring relationships is often the greatest recovery success.Daily practices like fasting and yoga enhance wellness.Forgiveness requires reflection and patience.🎧 The Way Out PlaylistCurated exclusively by guests of The Way Out Podcast — available only on Spotify.https://open.spotify.com?episode/07lvzwUq1L6VQGnZuH6OLz?si=3eyd3PxVRWCKz4pTurLcmA© 2015–2026 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights ReservedTheme Music: all clear by Ketsa — licensed under CC BY‑NC‑ND 4.0https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/