In this deeply personal episode of Too Light Too Dark, certified coach Jennifer Chase shares her lived experience as a person in long-term recovery, the child of an alcoholic, and a mother impacted by her son’s addiction. Her story spans addiction, abuse, generational trauma, and ultimately healing.

This is not a surface-level conversation about recovery. It’s an honest look at how addiction affects entire families, how shame and codependency keep cycles alive, and what it actually takes to begin breaking free.

Jennifer opens up about her journey through substance abuse and recovery, surviving childhood trauma and abuse, and how those experiences shaped her mission today: helping individuals and families navigate addiction with clarity, boundaries, and compassion.

In this episode, we explore:

• Addiction as a family system, not just an individual struggle
• Growing up in addiction and the long-term impact of childhood trauma
• The role of shame, denial, and codependency in keeping cycles alive
• What “supporting” a loved one with addiction actually looks like
• Why boundaries are essential in recovery—for both families and individuals
• How Jennifer now helps families move from crisis to healing

Jennifer’s work through Rise Addiction Life Coaching focuses on guiding families impacted by addiction toward understanding, resilience, and recovery support: https://www.riseaddictionlc.com

If you are struggling with addiction, supporting someone who is, or trying to make sense of family trauma, this conversation offers real-world insight and hope not theory.

Recovery is not just about stopping a behavior. It’s about rebuilding a life, and in many cases, rebuilding a family system.

Listen now and start breaking the cycle.

For socials

https://www.tiktok.com/@jenchase

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-chase-704b28243/

This conversation explores how harm reduction frameworks like the Mersey Model challenge traditional approaches to addiction, mental health, and care systems.

In this episode of Too Light Too Dark, Dr Simon Bratt explores harm reduction and The Mersey Model, challenging traditional drug policy and asking why systems built on punishment continue to fail vulnerable people.

If we’re honest, the way we’ve approached drugs for decades hasn’t worked. People are still dying, systems are still failing, and stigma is still driving harm underground.
The Mersey Model tried something different—something grounded in care, not punishment.

Today, we’re breaking down what actually works.

• Academic Profile (Liverpool Hope University): https://profiles.hope.ac.uk/bratts1
• Research Publications: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Simon-Bratt-2
• Professional Profile (LinkedIn): https://uk.linkedin.com/in/simonbrattphd

Dr Simon Bratt is a Senior Lecturer at Liverpool Hope University, Visiting Research Fellow at Staffordshire University, author with Palgrave Macmillan, and founder of Layered Care Consultancy. His work focuses on mental health, substance use, harm reduction, and rethinking systems of care.

• Website: https://www.toolighttoodark.com
• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL-wGWNul8iEfBvXmdlrB3g
• Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL-wGWNul8iEfBvXmdlrB3g?sub_confirmation=1

In this episode of Too Light Too Dark, we sit down with author J.F. Monroe to dive deep into the world of the Legacy of 4 trilogy. From the origins of the story to the challenges of writing a multi-book fantasy series, this conversation explores what it really takes to bring an epic vision to life.

J.F. Monroe shares insights into worldbuilding, character development, and the realities of being an author in today’s publishing landscape. Whether you're a fan of fantasy, an aspiring writer, or just love hearing the stories behind the stories, this episode delivers.

In this episode:

• The inspiration behind the Legacy of 4 trilogy
• How J.F. Monroe approaches worldbuilding
• Writing and structuring a multi-book series
• Lessons learned from the publishing journey
• Advice for aspiring authors

🎧 Listen to Too Light Too Dark on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, You Tube here > https://www.toolighttoodark.com/

👍 If you enjoy the episode, make sure to like, subscribe, and share to support the podcast.

Keywords: J.F. Monroe interview, Legacy of 4 trilogy, fantasy author interview, writing a fantasy series, author podcast, Too Light Too Dark podcast, indie author journey, worldbuilding, writing tips

Check out J.F. Monroe’s work:

• Legacy of 4 Trilogy: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/15956928.J_F_Monroe
• Author Website: https://www.jfmonroebookshelf.com/
• Talk: https://www.jfmonroebookshelf.com/contact
• Follow J.F. Monroe: https://www.tiktok.com/@jf.monroe

With Executive Coach and Organisational Consultant, Ben Neal - returning to the show for the first time since Episode 8.

The conversation delves into the functionality of envy, its roots in the Biblical Corpus through Shakespeare, contemporary cinema and even toe dipping into the recent Manospehere documentary - looking at dependency, comparison culture, the destructive nature of unacknowledged envy, defences against envy, and the self-eating nature of envy. It also explores the Jungian perspective on envy and interpreting envy without taking it personally.

The takeaways emphasize the role of envy as a signal and gratitude as an antidote.

Takeaways

• Envy is a destructive expression of aggression
• Envy can be subtle and often goes unrecognized
• Envy can lead to unhealthy competition and narcissistic leadership Envy as a Signal
• Gratitude as an Antidote

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Envy in the Workplace
• 09:24 Personal Reflection on Envy
• 16:05 Differentiating Envy and Jealousy
• 25:46 Contemporary Examples of Envy
• 32:12 The Functionality of Envy
• 41:30 Comparison Culture and Envy
• 49:43 Envy as a Self-Eating Black Hole

Further reading and research suggestions

Othello, Cain and Abel, Mark Stein, There Will Be Blood, Melanie Klein on Envy and Gratitude, Meta Bhavna Meditation.

https://www.toolighttoodark.com

The conversation delves into the personal journey and advocacy work of a UK-based harm reduction advocate. It explores the evolution of harm reduction strategies, the impact of personal experiences and trauma, and the importance of safe supply in saving lives. The discussion also highlights the challenges and successes in harm reduction advocacy, the cultural influences on harm reduction, and the need for a clear definition of harm reduction in practice. The conversation delves into the concept of harm reduction as a common-sense approach and highlights the disconnect between policy and effective strategies. It also explores the themes of recovery and authenticity, as well as the impact of books, movies, and music on personal reflection and learning.

Takeaways

• Harm Reduction Advocacy
• Personal Experience and Trauma
• Evolution of Harm Reduction
• Safe Supply Saves Lives Harm reduction as a common-sense approach
• The disconnect between policy and effective strategies

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Harm Reduction Advocacy
• 06:03 Development of Harm Reduction Strategies
• 12:01 Personal Journey and Cultural Influences
• 19:02 Lessons from the HIV Epidemic and Safe Supply
• 30:03 Policy Disconnect
• 36:03 Recovery and Authenticity
• 42:20 Three Pillars: Books, Movies, Music

In this episode, Leon and Dr. Brett Grellier delve into the enigmatic world of dreams, exploring their significance, symbolism, and the messages they convey from the unconscious. They discuss personal dream experiences, the role of authority figures, the impact of childhood memories, and the collective unconscious. The conversation also touches on nightmares, lucid dreaming, and the importance of dream journaling as a tool for self-discovery and integration of different aspects of the self. Through engaging anecdotes and psychological insights, the episode invites listeners to reflect on their own dream experiences and the deeper meanings behind them.

Take aways

• Dreams can be seen as messages from the unconscious.
• The symbolism in dreams often reflects personal experiences and emotions.
• Control and authority figures play significant roles in dream narratives.
• Nightmares may serve as a way to process unresolved fears.
• Lucid dreaming offers a unique opportunity for self-exploration.
• The collective unconscious connects shared human experiences.
• Childhood memories can influence dream content and themes.
• Dream journaling can enhance dream recall and understanding.
• Integration of different self-aspects is crucial for personal growth.
• Dreams can provide insights into our waking lives and struggles

00:00The Dreamscape: An Introduction

02:02The Allure of Dreams

03:06Personal Dream Analysis: Control and Authority

09:53Symbolism in Dreams: The Cab Driver and the Fiancé

17:00Understanding Dreams: Theories and Functions

20:29Nightmares: Adaptive Mechanisms and Recurring Themes

25:54Common Dream Themes: Falling and School Dreams

30:21Freud and the Interpretation of Dreams

33:51Exploring Lucid Dreams and Personal Connections

38:48The Role of Family in Dreams

41:21Understanding Self-Perception and Social Anxiety

49:39Dreams as Reflections of Identity and History

55:32Navigating Change and Personal Growth

59:30The Importance of Dream Journaling and Reflection

You can find out more about Dr Grellier's work on https://bgpsych.com/

And for professional contact https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-brett-grellier-95004645/

Please drop a comment, like, subscribe and ensure you are also checking out our new website https://www.toolighttoodark.com

Music by https://www.instagram/ali_jaguareyes

The conversation delves into the journey of recovery and transformation, highlighting the power of self-love and the impact of social connection and love. Richard Williams shares his personal journey of transformation, emphasizing the importance of self-love and the role of social connection in mental health and well-being. The conversation delves into the importance of fatherly guidance and mentorship, highlighting the role of male figures in providing support and guidance. It also explores the power of music, books, and movies in shaping identity and personal growth. Additionally, the influence of human connection and love in the healing process is emphasized, underscoring the significance of love and compassion in recovery and personal development.

Takeaways

• Recovery and transformation
• The power of self-love The importance of fatherly guidance and mentorship
• The significance of human connection and love in healing

Chapters

• 00:00 The Journey of Transformation
• 12:27 The Power of Self-Love and Restoration
• 26:29 The Impact of Social Connection and Love
• 37:45 The Role of Fatherly Guidance and Mentorship
• 53:16 The Power of Music, Books, and Movies in Shaping Identity
• 59:01 The Influence of Human Connection and Love in Healing

🌐 Website
https://www.reallyhealed.com/

📺 YouTube – Really Healed
https://www.youtube.com/@Reallyhealed

💼 LinkedIn – Richard Williams
https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-williams-0a27a06b

📘 Facebook – Really Healed
https://www.facebook.com/p/Really-Healed-100038170193847/

📩 Bookings & Enquiries
https://www.reallyhealed.com/contact-1

🌐 Official Website
https://www.toolighttoodark.com/

🎧 Listen on Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/2f9hdKHsNAUE5oXe7RG29K

🍎 Apple Podcasts Page
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/too-light-too-dark/id1819082803

📺 YouTube – Too Light Too Dark
https://www.youtube.com/@TLTDLDN

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/toolighttoodark

🎶 TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@toolighttoodark

💼 LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/toolighttoodark

📩 Email Contact
[email protected]

The conversation delves into the journey of recovery and transformation, highlighting the power of self-love and the impact of social connection and love. Richard Williams shares his personal journey of transformation, emphasizing the importance of self-love and the role of social connection in mental health and well-being. The conversation delves into the importance of fatherly guidance and mentorship, highlighting the role of male figures in providing support and guidance. It also explores the power of music, books, and movies in shaping identity and personal growth. Additionally, the influence of human connection and love in the healing process is emphasized, underscoring the significance of love and compassion in recovery and personal development.

Takeaways

• Recovery and transformation
• The power of self-love The importance of fatherly guidance and mentorship
• The significance of human connection and love in healing

Chapters

• 00:00 The Journey of Transformation
• 12:27 The Power of Self-Love and Restoration
• 26:29 The Impact of Social Connection and Love
• 37:45 The Role of Fatherly Guidance and Mentorship
• 53:16 The Power of Music, Books, and Movies in Shaping Identity
• 59:01 The Influence of Human Connection and Love in Healing

🌐 Website
https://www.reallyhealed.com/

📺 YouTube – Really Healed
https://www.youtube.com/@Reallyhealed

💼 LinkedIn – Richard Williams
https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-williams-0a27a06b

📘 Facebook – Really Healed
https://www.facebook.com/p/Really-Healed-100038170193847/

📩 Bookings & Enquiries
https://www.reallyhealed.com/contact-1

🌐 Official Website
https://www.toolighttoodark.com/

🎧 Listen on Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/2f9hdKHsNAUE5oXe7RG29K

🍎 Apple Podcasts Page
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/too-light-too-dark/id1819082803

📺 YouTube – Too Light Too Dark
https://www.youtube.com/@TLTDLDN

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/toolighttoodark

🎶 TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@toolighttoodark

💼 LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/toolighttoodark

📩 Email Contact
[email protected]

The conversation delves into the power of movement and dance as a form of authentic expression, the intelligence of the body, the importance of authenticity and radical honesty, the role of acceptance and bravery, and creating a space for realness and self-expression. The conversation delves into the art of waiting, navigating the fall, movement as a form of healing, the power of walking, embracing movement in different forms, balancing self-care and indulgence, the role of trauma in art, art, healing, and expression, creativity and autobiography, navigating political and social spaces, self-censorship and freedom of expression, and cultivating creativity and presence. Key takeaways include the origin of creativity in problem-solving, the importance of cultivating intuition through slowing down, and the need to integrate art and healing without bifurcation.

Takeaways

• Dance as a form of authentic expression
• The intelligence of the body Creativity originates in problem-solving
• Cultivating intuition through slowing down
• Art and healing should not be bifurcated

Chapters

• 00:00 The Power of Movement and Dance
• 10:45 Authenticity and Radical Honesty
• 20:56 Acceptance and Bravery
• 28:22 Creating a Space for Realness
• 35:01 The Art of Waiting
• 40:33 Embracing Movement in Different Forms
• 46:22 Art, Healing, and Expression
• 51:30 Navigating Political and Social Spaces
• 57:49 Cultivating Creativity and Presence

You can catch up with more of Alexandra's work below

• Main professional site: https://www.alexandrabeller.com — Alexandra’s portfolio with résumé, choreography, film work, and press.

• Alexandra Beller/Dances: https://www.alexandrabellerdances.org — her arts/education company offering classes, workshops, and resources.
• Free Resources / Community: https://alexandrabellerdances.org/free-resources — free tutorials, classes, and creative tools mentioned in interviews.
• Praxispace Creative Community: https://praxispace.com — a project she’s involved with for choreographers and makers.

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandrabellerdances/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexandrabellerdances/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-beller-0a56a57/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelabanista
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alexandrabeller9868

Like, comment and subscribe and keep the conversation going!!!

https://www.toolighttoodark.com

The conversation delves into the topics of harm reduction, overdose prevention, and the impact of harm reduction services on drug-related deaths. It explores the challenges faced in the UK and Canada, the comparative study of harm reduction practices in different countries, and the impact of policy on drug use. The discussion also highlights the importance of dignity and empowerment in harm reduction efforts, as well as the role of supervised consumption sites and the hostility in the social and political climate. The conversation delves into the impact of supervised consumption sites on public health, the use of ethnography and participatory research in understanding drug use, the challenges in drug policy and harm reduction, the impact of a hostile socio-political climate, the need for a structural focus and research inclusion, and the importance of shifting dominant narratives on drug use. The discussion highlights the significance of listening, engaging with the community, and addressing the broader societal issues that contribute to drug-related harm.

Takeaways

• Nuance in public debate
• Harm reduction and overdose prevention
• The impact of harm reduction services on drug-related deaths Ethnography and participatory research
• Impact of supervised consumption sites
• Challenges in drug policy and harm reduction

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Too Light Too Dark
• 04:55 Supervised Consumption Sites and Police Engagement
• 10:50 Comparative Study: UK, Canada, and Greece
• 16:54 Impact of Policy on Drug Use
• 22:50 Harm Reduction and Empowerment
• 33:24 Supervised Consumption Sites and Public Health
• 41:39 Research Impact on Policy and Legislation
• 49:29 Impact of Hostile Socio-Political Climate
• 59:04 Structural Focus and Research Inclusion

https://globalhealth.princeton.edu/people/ben-scher

https://www.spi.ox.ac.uk/people/benjamin-scher

Music by www.instagram.com/ali_jaguareyes

Too Light Too Dark channel links

https://youtube.com/@tltdldn?si=5zyOpf9iq2MiUqJF

https://open.spotify.com/show/2f9hdKHsNAUE5oXe7RG29K?si=OIcE48DJTLOIYz8c3_qTvw

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/too-light-too-dark/id1819082803

Email us at [email protected]