Best Master PTSD With The Spirit Podcasts (2024)

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Episode 159 - Eric Kreitz on Helping Organizations Reintegrate Those in Recovery 55:32

2M ago55:32

55:32

We spend a lot of time discussing what it takes to get into recovery, however, today's guest discusses what employers can do to assist the employees returning to work after treatment. This is a discussion few people have in the recovery world, and I know you will gain insight into the "other side" of recovery and learn tools you can use to help tho…

1
Episode 158 - Rob Carson - Mind, Body, and Spirit 54:31

2M ago54:31

54:31

Today I interviewed nationally syndicated radio host Rob Carson. Rob came to recovery seemingly "overnight", but as he explains there was a long road traveled before the "miracle" occurred. Rob's story demonstrates that each of us has a different path, but we all come to the same conclusion. We eventually have to get well or die, and Rob explains t…

1
Episode 157 - Be the Solution, Not the Problem 24:50

4M ago24:50

24:50

We can stay sober in the midst of tragedy; and in this episode, I discuss how it is important that we help those that are also suffering the tragedy we are experiencing. Using only makes the problem worse, and then you become part of the problem. We want to be part of the solution, and through remaining focused on a few basic principles and service…

1
Episode 156 - We Are Responsible for Our Recovery 19:51

4M ago19:51

19:51

No one else is responsible for your recovery, and no one else is the cause for your using. We alone are responsible for our recovery, and in this episode, I discuss this concept and how we can take responsibility for our use and what we need to do to begin the process of getting well. We can and do recover...but it is up to us. This episode is spon…

1
Episode 155 - Not Relapsing After a Tragedy 19:04

5M ago19:04

19:04

My younger brother passed away a couple of weeks ago. When you look at the list of reasons why people relapse, this would be near the top. I am grateful that this did not happen to me, and I wanted to take this opportunity to discuss what the process of getting through this kind of event is like. Relapse does not have to happen, but we need to make…

1
Episode 154 - What It Takes To Be Sober 23:02

6M ago23:02

23:02

In this episode we discuss what it takes to be sober. People in long-term sobriety tend to do similar things, and people who continue to relapse also tend to do similar things. I discuss where our focus needs to be and how you can change your mind set for success. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more informa…

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Episode 153 - The "I Get To List in Life" with John Monaghan 57:29

7M ago57:29

57:29

John Monaghan is a retired Chief of Police who now works in mental health, resilience, and Post Traumatic Growth. In this episode we discuss how to help people turn their struggle into strength, especially when it comes to addiction. John brings home the point, "Don't be afraid to ask for help, it is the most courageous thing you can do". You can a…

1
Episode 152 - Hilary Phelps on Coaching and Wellness 50:47

8M ago50:47

50:47

Hilary Phelps discusses the benefits of coaching in regard to wellness and recovery. Hilary has an enormous amount of experience with recovery and discusses the unique challenges, expectations, and responsibilities they face on a daily basis. Hilary also discusses her new coaching platform she launched this year. hilaryphelps.com This episode is sp…

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Episode 151 - Fantasizing About What Our Future Can Be 14:37

8M ago14:37

14:37

Everyone that is attempting to get into recovery from drugs or alcohol has a vision of what they want their future to be. This does not have to be just a fantasy; it can be a reality. In this episode I discuss how we can make this vision a reality. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https:/…

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Episode 150 - Looking at What Recovery Does for Us 19:30

8M ago19:30

19:30

Many people will tell you what drinking and drugging does for them, but rarely do they discuss what it does to them. In this episode, I challenge the notion that drinking and drugging helps you in any way. Instead, I discuss what sobriety does for you and challenge you to be willing to recommit yourself in this new year to a life that is happy, joy…

1
Episode 149 - Getting Through the Holidays Sober 21:52

9M ago21:52

21:52

The Holiday Season is difficult for many people, but especially for those in recovery. How do you get through the season without a relapse? In this episode I discuss ways tools you can use to get through the holidays with your recovery intact. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.…

1
Episode 148 - We Can Do Hard Things in Recovery 33:29

10M ago33:29

33:29

Being in recovery is certainly a bonus when we set out to do really hard things in life. In fact, we find that those around us who are not in recovery struggle more than we do. We have a program, they don't! In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss how a program of recovery keeps us centered when the going gets really tough. This episode is sponso…

1
Episode 147 - Recovery is Work 18:34

10M ago18:34

18:34

Recovery is work, and those that get into long-term recovery do the work. In this episode I discuss how we can change our view of recovery and how to focus on what is important. Recovery is about changing your thinking and surrounding yourself with those that are share the same journey and struggles. Remember, keep the main thing the main thing! Th…

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Episode 146 - Tapping into Your Energy in Recovery 32:00

11M ago32:00

32:00

People, Places, Things, and Situations can sap our energy and put us on the path to a relapse if we are not careful. We must remain balanced in our energy levels, but life throws us "curve balls" and this is sometimes easier said than done. In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss tools you can use to manage your energy and help prevent a host of …

1
Episode 145 - The Power of Becoming a Whole Person 26:19

11M ago26:19

26:19

One of the most important parts of recovery is returning yourself to wholeness. In this episode, Aparna Sain and I discuss "The Power of Becoming a Whole Person" and the tools we need to achieve this goal. www.aparnasain.com This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhe…

1
Episode 144 - Making a Decision for Recovery 31:24

12M ago31:24

31:24

How do we decide to do something we know we need to do? How do we decide to get sober? Sobriety is not about knowledge, it is about action, and until we make that commitment we are going to struggle. In this episode Aparna Sain and I explore this topic and discuss the difference between making a decision and making a commitment. These concepts may …

1
Episode 143 - The Importance of Relationships 28:57

1y ago28:57

28:57

Addiction is isolation, and recovery is community. In this episode, Aparna Sain, host of the Mindful Nation radio show on WERA 96.7 and I discuss why relationships are vital for both a spiritual journey and recovery. This is a message we all need to hear whether we need to be in recovery or would like to just be our best selves. This episode is spo…

1
Episode 142 - Focusing on Mental Health 30:40

1y ago30:40

30:40

Our government needs to do more to help with Mental Health and Addiction issues. In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss what can and should be done to help the public with this serious issue. Addiction is on the rise and there does not seem to be any let up in sight. We are going to have to deal with this situation, or eventually this situation …

1
Episode 141 - The Spiritual Awakening in Recovery 32:00

1y ago32:00

32:00

Developing your spiritual life in recovery is essential, but how do we do that? What does that mean? In this episode, Aparna Sain and I discuss the importance of developing a spiritual foundation in your life and how this can be integrated into recovery. Aparna is the host of Mindful Nation which can be heard weekly on WERA 96.7 in Arlington, Virgi…

1
Episode 140 - Mindfulness with Aparna Sain 31:42

1y ago31:42

31:42

I recorded this episode live at the WERA 96.7 studio in Arlington, Virginia. Aparna Said joins me as we discuss mindfulness and meditation and how it can be used as a tool in recovery. Aparna discusses how she came into the practice of mindfulness and how it has helped her in her life journey. You will be inspired by this episode and learn concepts…

1
Episode 139 - The Joys and Happiness in Life 14:34

1y ago14:34

14:34

In this episode I am being interviewed by Lori L. who asks me about The Joy and Happiness in Life. This was a project she was doing for school, and I thought the information was relevant for those that are suffering from addiction, or for those that are looking for happiness in their life. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You…

1
Episode 138 - Sharpening Your Ax 16:19

1y ago16:19

16:19

It is believed that Abraham Lincoln once said, "If I had an hour to chop down a tree, then I would spend the first 45 minutes sharpening my ax." Recovery is the same way; we spend a lot of time getting ready for the day when our sobriety is tested. It is the preparation leading into that day that is going to count. We need to "sharpen our ax" and t…

1
Episode 137 - People, Places, Things, and Situations 20:25

1+ y ago20:25

20:25

Early sobriety can be negatively affected by people, places, things, and situations. A listener asked what was meant by this because they hear this phrase quite a bit at recovery meetings. In this episode I explain what this phrase means and give practical ideas to help one stay sober. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can…

1
Episode 136 - Things Everyone in Recovery Should Know 24:38

1+ y ago24:38

24:38

There are certain things that all people in recovery need to know. In this episode I cover twelve points I think are important in recovery, especially in the early stages. Recovery is difficult, but this list will help you begin the journey that will be the most rewarding thing you ever do. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. Yo…

1
Episode 135 - Acceptance in Recovery 22:29

1+ y ago22:29

22:29

Recovery from addiction or any other mental health issue can be a long and challenging journey. One of the most critical elements of recovery is learning to accept the things we cannot change. In this episode I discuss some points we need to consider when it comes to acceptance. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find o…

1
Episode 134 - Are Addicts Really Powerless Over Their Substances? 20:33

1+ y ago20:33

20:33

The idea that addicts are powerless over their substances is one of the great questions and mysteries. Powerlessness is a concept commonly referred to in the 12-step community and can be hotly debated. This concept suggests that addicts have lost the ability to control their drug or alcohol use, and that their addiction has taken over their lives. …

1
Episode 133 - The Importance of Structure in Recovery 18:05

1+ y ago18:05

18:05

Structure is extremely important in recovery from addiction, mental health issues, or other behavioral health problems. Establishing a structured routine can provide a sense of stability, control, and purpose, which can help individuals in recovery maintain their progress and avoid relapse. In this episode I describe how and why structure is an imp…

1
Episode 132 - Addiction Runs in The Family-Maggie Hunt 47:06

1+ y ago47:06

47:06

Today's guest is Maggie Hunt, Director of Communications and Marketing at Retreat Behavioral Health. Maggie discusses her recovery from Opiate Addiction and how addiction runs in families. The good news is that people can and do recover from addiction, and Maggie explains how she did just that. Today, her life is better than ever, and she is fulfil…

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Episode 131 - ”Life is Hard” - Interview with Anne Taydus 57:35

1+ y ago57:35

57:35

Life is hard, but Anne Taydus is an example of someone who persevered through difficult times and drug court and achieved long-term sobriety. Drug court helped save her life, and Anne describes her road to recovery. Today, through sobriety Anne is able to accomplish incredible things that benefit the community and improve the lives of children. Ann…

1
Episode 130 - Progress Rather Than Perfection 25:01

1+ y ago25:01

25:01

In this episode I discuss questions I received from people who are in treatment. There is a lot of work people must do early in recovery, but people need to be patient as well. Progress rather than perfection is this week's concept. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbeha…

1
Episode 129 - Willingness Is The Key 17:08

1+ y ago17:08

17:08

Many people just do not have the willingness to listen to others and learn how they achieved sobriety. Ego, our perceived intellect, and stubbornness get in the way. In this episode we discuss this topic, as well as the importance of getting active and committed to meetings. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out m…

1
Episode 128 - Medically Assisted Treatment 21:47

1+ y ago21:47

21:47

For a lot of people in recovery Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a controversial subject. But does it need to be? I have seen many people struggle to achieve sobriety, and I have to say that MAT is a tool that may help many who struggle early on. In this episode, I discuss this subject and give you some insight from my experiences that you may…

1
Episode 127 - Willingness Is The Key 16:51

1+ y ago16:51

16:51

Many people just do not have the willingness to listen to others and learn how they achieved sobriety. Ego, our perceived intellect, and stubbornness get in the way. In this episode we discuss this topic, as well as the importance of getting active and committed to meetings. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out m…

1
Episode 126 - Interview with Steve Click: Ohio ASSIST Program 59:19

1+ y ago59:19

59:19

I interviewed retired Ohio State Trooper Steve Click about how the Ohio ASSIST Program helps First Responders deal with Critical Incidents. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhealth.com/By Michael Van Meter

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Episode 125 - FBI National Academy Instructor Suzanna Hasnay Discusses Resiliency 54:38

1+ y ago54:38

54:38

Resiliency is critical to wellness and dealing with all that life throws at us. In this episode I interview Suzanna Hasnay who taught with me at the FBI National Academy. Suzanna discusses how and why resiliency is important for our life, career, and recovery. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information…

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Episode 124 - Ashley Addiction Treatment Center-Interview with the Co-CEOs 59:10

1+ y ago59:10

59:10

Ashley Addiction Treatment Center is a special place for many people in recovery. The founding influence was Father Joseph Martin who famously produced the "Chalk Talk" series in the 1970's and is still used extensively today. In the present-day, Ashley has evolved into a center that prides itself on utilizing the recent advancements in recovery re…

1
Episode 123 - Recovery and Spirituality with Ray Houk 1:08:42

1+ y ago1:08:42

1:08:42

Ray Houk is a recently retired Chaplain from the United States Navy. Ray has extensive experience working with service members who have suffered trauma as well as addiction. In this episode, Ray shares with us some of those experiences as well as the role that spirituality plays in helping those who are suffering navigate these experiences. Music-J…

1
Episode 122 - Sue Gilroy-Women-Self-Worth, Shame, and Trauma 56:31

1+ y ago56:31

56:31

Today's episode takes a little different direction where Sue Gilroy and I discuss the trauma and conditioning of women regarding their self-worth, shame, and trauma. Sue is from Australia and is a professional Life Coach, Registered Nurse, and has worked with management of Medical Centers in Singleton and Hunter Valley in New South Wales, Australia…

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Episode 121 - Inspiration or Desperation-Bev Perez, ShieldUs 1:10:07

2y ago1:10:07

1:10:07

More First Responders die from their own hand than from conflict from a suspect. This is a real problem, and Bev Perez, CEO and founder of ShieldUs helps First Responders deal with trauma, especially suicide. If you are in the First Responder profession, or have a loved one that is, this episode is a must listen. Bev spent ten years in the Prince G…

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Episode 120 - Former NFL Player Ken Harvey on Setting Goals 58:47

2y ago58:47

58:47

Ken Harvey was an Outside Linebacker for both the Phoenix Cardinals and the Washington Redskins. He was the First Round, Twelfth Overall Pick in the 1988 NFL Draft, four-time Pro Bowler, played 164 NFL games and had 89 sacks. He played professionally from 1988-1998 and he has had an incredible journey. Ken's story is special in that he never though…

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Episode 119 - Tom Farley Interview 1:06:35

2y ago1:06:35

1:06:35

Tom Farley is comedian Chris Farley's brother, who tragically died from his addiction in 1997. I met Tom at a fundraising event for a recovery center and was deeply touched by his story of recovery and the work he is doing not only for his own sobriety, but for the community. Tom discusses his own struggles with addiction, and describes what life w…

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Episode 118 - Radio Broadcast ”Can You Be Too Smart for Recovery?” 29:30

2y ago29:30

29:30

Our material is now being broadcast weekly on 96.7 FM WERA here in Arlington, Virginia. This episode is titled "Can You Be Too Smart for Recovery" and explores the reasons why people discount recovery programs to their own detriment. I also discuss why it is important to trust those that have experience, and more importantly have had success with r…

1
Episode 117 - Never Quit-Recovery Is Possible-Sean MacMillen 1:07:37

2y ago1:07:37

1:07:37

Sean MacMillen has a powerful story of resilience and is an example of someone who kept persisting until the miracle of sobriety happened. Sean went through five inpatient treatment facilities, and nine or ten detox stays, but he never gave up. Sean says, "your life is on the line" and you can't give up. Today, Sean spends his time helping others a…

1
Episode 116 - Buddy C.-What are You Putting Your Effort In? 58:27

2y ago58:27

58:27

Buddy C. has a powerful story of recovery and loss. Buddy discovered his faith was lacking something, then he began a study of Tao Te Ching that has helped him live a life free from alcohol. Buddy has suffered serious loss in recovery yet has remained sober through it all. He even wrote a book called "Powerless but Not Helpless" which is a meditati…

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Episode 115 - High Bottom, You Don’t Need to Wait-Susanne Navas 59:46

2y ago59:46

59:46

It has been said "you don't need to ride the elevator to the bottom, you can get off on any floor." Susanne Navas had this experience, finding sobriety before her drinking created the damage in her life that many people experience. You do not have to wait until it is too late. If you think your drinking is a problem, then it probably is. Susanne sh…

1
Episode 114 - Pete Sousa-What Do You Want to Be Remembered For? 1:00:33

2y ago1:00:33

1:00:33

Pete Sousa describes his battle with addiction and how it took everything, then allowed him to rise to become the Morning Anchor at KWTX in Waco, TX, a CBS affiliate. Pete is also a Play-by-Play Anchor with ESPN, and hosts his own podcast called "The Payoff with Pete." While in active addiction he could have never guessed that life could be this go…

1
Episode 113 - Just Keep Going - Kelly Thrush 1:07:02

2y ago1:07:02

1:07:02

Just keep going, get through what is in front of you. This sums up recovery! Recovery is tough, but you get through it one day at a time, one hour at a time, sometimes even one minute at a time...but you never give up, just keep going. In this episode Kelly shares with us his experience, strength, and hope, and discusses how he was able to overcome…

1
Episode 112 - Addiction Rescue with Dana Golden 45:47

2y ago45:47

45:47

In this episode we discuss the effects of addiction on the family and the resources that are available. My guest is Dana Golden the author of Addiction Rescue; The NO-BS Guide of Recovery. Dana is also a blogger for Psychology Today, a Recovery Coach, Family Addiction Coach, and an Interventionist. Her focus and passion is working with families str…

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Episode 111 - ”The Payoff with Pete” Interview 1:47:48

2y ago1:47:48

1:47:48

I recently appeared on "The Payoff with Pete" podcast hosted by Pete Sousa. In this episode you learn a little bit about my story and background as well as how the disease of addiction progresses. This is an interview full of all kinds of useful information that will equip you with information you can use to not only help yourself, but others as we…

1
Episode 110 - Melissa Hinton from Loudon Serenity House 44:38

2y ago44:38

44:38

Melissa Hinton started Loudon Serenity House after the death of her sister in 2019. In an effort to help those that are suffering from addiction, Melissa made sure that that Loudoun Serenity House followed the mission of providing supportive and affordable residential services to women and men striving for their best life, a sober life, free from d…

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Master PTSD With The Spirit Podcasts

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