A2D - From Addict to Disciple: Recent Episodes
A2D -from Addict to Disciple
The path From Addict to Disciple may be the path less traveled, but it is the path that makes all the difference!
David Hain is the founder of From A2D, has attained the designation of International Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and authored From Addict to Disciple, The Heart of an Addict, and From Ashes to Destiny. He equips people to work with addicts in prisons and communities in the US, Canada and Africa.
These podcasts will focus on finding freedom from the emotional wounds which result in addiction. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
When I'm working in rehabs I often hear questions like "How do I know I'm really making it in recovery?" "How do I know I'm ready to reintegrate into society, a job, family?" My answer is, "Have you found greatness in recovery?" In this episode we look at what greatness in recovery is, what signposts should I see along the journey of greatness and how do I get started? We close today's episode with a quote from Bob Marley "The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively."
I close every podcast episode with these words. What do they mean to me? How can living these words be your way to develop your support system in recovery? How do we look for people, places and things that are safe and that keep us resilient in recovery? Get out your journal and take notes as you listen.
This is part two on Fear of the Unknown. In this part we look at how fear of the unknown paralyzes us, makes us freeze up, or become stagnant. And the result is we stay stuck, often blaming others as we miss opportunities for growth because of fear. I want to encourage all of the listeners to pick one of the quotes you identify with or that resonates with you and discuss it witha friend or in group.
Has fear of the unknown in recovery, reintegration into society or reconciliation KEPT YOU in addiction? Or maybe it has paralyzed you form transitioning to the next phase in life. Perhaps it has made you a career rehab guy. Even though you aren't growing, you're in a safe or comfortable place. Today's episode is the first of a two part look at this topic.
Thanks for joining us as we go on a walkabout through Remorse in Recovery Park. Are you a pro at getting clean and sober but remorse always results in relapse? Are you struggling to deal with the havoc your created in your family? Do thoughts of the lives you've shattered keep you awake at night? Then this episode is for you and for the friends and family affected by your addiction.
Are you comfortable in your own skin today? If not, what are you uncomfortable about? How do you begin the journey of being comfortable in your own skin? What signs are there that will show that you're getting there? What does this have to do with recovery? These questions and more in today's episode. Enjoy and share.
I had been thinking of an alternative title, Things I Never Said Keep Me Sick!, so this episode looks at how to tell our story to find healing and be able to rewrite our story. Author Niyan S. Dizaye encourages us to "Embrace your own story, light up the dark, conquer your fears - take the journey to your next level. Win the battle against the end." I hope this podcast motivates you to do just that.
This is a group episode with input from six guys in recovery from South Africa, Australia and the US. They share their answers to the question, "If you're focused on your past, how can you fuel your future?" That's a good question for all of us in recovery from addiction, from abuse or from any trauma in our life. Share this episode with any of your friends that come to mind as you listen.
Today we go on a walkabout in this park and reflect on several quotes about life as a game. Albert Einstein said "Life is just like a game. First you have to learn the rules of the game, and then play it better than anyone else." Placido Domingo said "I feel like a little boy who is constantly offered new toys." Napoleon Bonaparte warned "Men are ruled by toys." I'm sure you'll enjoy this walkabout as we look at these quotes and more.
In this episode we take another look at taking our thoughts captive before we give ourselves permission to relapse. The Buddhist parable of the two arrows says that when misfortune comes, two arrows are flying at us. The first is the event, the second is our reaction. And the second is optional! How do we stop clinging to the pain and learn to chill out?
Today's episode is a walkabout through Never Again Park. In this walkabout I'm joined by several women who have been affected by the addiction of their husband or baby's father. The focus will be all of the emotions that arise as they deal with the situation that just as they decided to never let that guy ever hurt them again, he has the nerve to say he wants to make amends!
Have you said "I'm never going to relapse?" What makes you feel invincible to the triggers and temptations that have caused millions of guys before you to relapse? Let's look at what makes an invincible mindset and how to apply it to our recovery and our life. Remember, Joseph Stalin said "History shows that there are no invincible armies."
Do you feel like you have reached burnout in your recovery? Do you find yourself battling with mental, physical or emotional exhaustion on a regular basis? If that's you it may be time to shift gears and focus on self-care. It's not good to reach the point where you say "I used to be sick and tired of being sick and tired in my addiction, now I feel stuck and tired in my recovery!"
We've all heard the idiom "Don't beat a dead horse!" Today we look at this saying and how it applies to our recovery. Why are you continuing to use ineffective strategies even though they aren't working for you? What can you do to restore enthusiasm and excitement to your recovery? Remember, you and you alone, are responsible for maintaining your energy in recovery.
We all have those unexpected moments in life when our sense of peace, joy, safety, stability vanishes. How do you handle those moments? Do you find yourself riddled with panic and fear? Today we look at how to withstand those moments, how to remain elastic and flexible, how to be calm in the midst of the storm. Martin Luther King Jr. said "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."
Many people in recovery struggle to deal with their anger issues. Family members sign them up for anger management and behavior modification classes. Today's episode talks us through how to dig deeper into this topic of out anger. Using an iceberg model we look at the things below the surface that we need to process and learn how to control before our anger controls us.
In today's episode I take a walk through Weekend Warrior Park with four friends who were weekend warrior alcoholics. The walk leads us to look at alcoholics who who started out as: 1) social drinkers, 2) conformist drinkers, 3) thrill seekers or 4) copers. By the end of the park we look at ways to become a Weekend Warrior for recovery
This is part 2 of the two episodes on closure. Today we look at the aspect of moving on. Moving forward, not just turning a page. Not focusing on what you left behind, but realizing you have the power to choose your future and the direction you will take to get there.
Today's episode is part 1 of two parts on the topic of closure. I believe it is crucial to make peace with our past or memories will continue to draw us back into relapse. In this podcast we look at aspects of closure and how to prepare ourself to move forward in life and recovery.
A client working on making amends said to me "I made a promise I couldn't keep no matter how hard I tried! I left them hurt and me with guilt and shame." Are you tired of the broken trust, damaged relationships, shredded hope and shattered dreams? In todays' episode we look at the impact of promises we've broken and how we can become someone who under promises and over delivers.
Today's episode looks at three quotes from the book Take the Stairs: 7 Steps to Achieving True Success by Rory Vaden. This is not a book review but I'll discuss the quotes from the standpoint of achieving success in recovery. We'll look at the critical aspects of the journey of recovery and how to choose the hard right thing over the easy wrong one.
Today's episode is a group session with my friends in recovery from the United States, South Africa and Australia. I'm sure you'll enjoy their openness and insight as they share their reactions to: "There's an anonymous quote that says 'We didn't come this far to just come this far.' How has your achieving recovery become a stepping stone for you to a lifestyle of perseverance and continuous improvement?"
Today's episode looks at the question, "Are you feeding the squatter?". This question was asked by Lynda Holt in her blog "Manage Your Mind" on www.bravescene.com.
We'll look at the negative self-talk that has become a squatter in our brain, how it has affected our recovery and how to stop feeding that squatter. What steps can you take to evict the squatter in your brain?
Today's episode takes a look at the question "Do I have a sugar addiction?" Many people admit t o having a sweet tooth, but when they see the consequences of physical health or appearance, they try to "break free from the bondage to food!" Even if you don't have a sweet tooth , I'm sure you'll find things you relate to in this episode. Enjoy.
Dictionaries say being lonely is the same thing as feeling lonesome. But I have found that lonesome is a much deeper feeling of sadness, isolation and melancholy. I hope you enjoy our walkabout through Lonesome Park as we read the signs with quotes about being lonesome and the comments others have written in the journal. I encourage you to journal you're comments as you begin to walk past and away from that lonesome feeling.
In today's episode we look at mirroring, also called mimicry. This behavior often start in our infancy and can become an unconscious aspect of our behavior. But, too often in recovery a pattern of conscious imitation becomes a tool of manipulation used to maintain control of people, conversations and situations. American psychologist Joyce Brothers once said "Listening, not imitation, may be the sincerest form of flattery."
Have people told you "You have an addictive personality"? Do you believe you have an addictive personality because you always go from one addiction to another? Have you substituted a socially acceptable addiction for the drugs, alcohol or porn that got you in trouble? In today's episode we look at these questions and more. Enjoy and share it with your friends.
Today's episode is a group session with my friends in recovery from South Africa, Australia and the USA. The topic for our group discussion is "Happy people have learned to forgive and to give second chances." I know you'll enjoy as each of our six guys share their insight and their personal struggles in the area of forgiveness AND the power of an attitude of gratitude.
In today's episode I'd like to talk about a topic that has come up in a couple of rehabs, homeless shelters and community groups in the past few weeks in South Africa. I'll share comments that I heard from people who said "I may have been their son or daughter (or spouse or boyfriend, etc.) but I was NOT your choice! Many of the group participants also realized that they had given that same wound to their children because their drug of choice was their first choice!
In today's episode we look at the "People, Places and Things" that can trigger a relapse in recovery. It's important to understand that people, places and things are everywhere AND they are not going away! Often early in recovery we are told to control our triggers and we often feel that we need to control our people, places and things. This often leads to frustration as we realize we can't control them. This episode lists a variety of things we CAN do to control our reactions to them so they do not trigger relapse.
William Golding coined the phrase "failure of imagination" in his book The Lord of the Flies in 1954. In today's episode we look at how a failure of our imagination can shape our defeat in recovery. And we'll discuss the positive aspects of imagination: exploring new ideas, birthing creativity and solving problems can be a key to a successful recovery.
As I travel to rehabs, homeless shelters, prisons or meet with addicts one on one, a common question is "How do I build a strong support system?" In today's episode we tackle that question and ask you to dig deeper to see who really can't support our recovery but would actually undermine it or be neutral. I hope you enjoy learning to tell the difference between these and that you find the improved quality of life that comes from having a strong support system.
Today's episode is a walkabout through Class Clown Park. As you go on this walkabout the signs will lead you on a journey of why people become the class clown or the life of the party. Even if that isn't you, I encourage you to see how you relate to each sign's topic and the responses the guys wrote in the journals at each sign.
Today's episode is in response to feedback I got from the two previous episodes. Listeners were asking how to dig deeper into topics about homelessness, addiction, going off the rails. So today we'll look at estrangement and discuss aspects of it, like thoughts and feelings , utilizing the model of the Russian dolls from the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. I hope you enjoy it.
What are the causes of trains going off the rails? What causes people to go off the rails? Why did you or your loved one lose control and begin behaving in a way that was not normal, not acceptable? How can we take a self-inventory to put corrective actions in place to be sure we don't go off the rails in the future?
Today's episode looks at how each of us defines home and what makes up a home. My hope is that it will stir thought in all of us whether we are unhoused or housed, in a shelter or a rehab, on the streets or never experienced homelessness. We'll be looking at a variety of quotes including: "Don't try to drive the homeless into places we find suitable. Help them survive in places they find suitable." by Daniel Quinn and "Home is where the heart can laugh without shyness. Home is where the heart's tears can dry at their own pace." by Vernon Baker
I've had several requests to do another episode on finding happiness. If you want to listen to earlier podcasts I suggest #72 and #206. In this episode we go on a walkabout and read journal entries from guys in response to quotes about happiness such as: "The purpose of life is to be happy" by the Dalai Lama. "The power of finding beauty in the humblest things makes home happy and life lovely" by Louisa May Alcott. "Happiness resides not in possessions, and not in gold, happiness dwells in the soul" by Democritus.
This episode is the final Wacky Wednesday episode as it covers the last chapter of the From Ashes to Destiny Curriculum. The story for this episode is the story of Toons who was a street corner drug seller who called it "honest work" because he didn't mug anyone or boost any stores for money because he got paid by the dealer in crack cocaine. Questions in this episode include: What foolishness are you caught up in? What makes you feel like a fool? What has total importance in your life that it can interrupt whatever you're doing anytime? What must you do to find your hope and future?
This Wacky Wednesday episode is from Chapter 17 of Phase 4 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. We take a look at the first story from the chapter which is the story of Tim. He lost his job working with horses at the racetrack due to his addiction and horses were his life. Tim said he lost his life and had No Reason to Get Clean. What is your reason to get clean and to stay clean? Does your family know where you are right now? Why would you hesitate to let them know? These questions and more on today's episode.
Today's episode is a walkabout in Wake Up Call Park. Join me as we walk, read the signs and the journal entries of people who have gone on this walk before us. Some of the quotes in this park are: "First thing every morning before you arise, say out loud, 'I believe' three time." by Ovid. "Every morning you have two choices: continue to sleep with your dreams or wake up and chase them." by Arnold Schwarzenegger. "There's a morning inside you waiting to burst open into light." by Rumi.
This is the second Wacky Wednesday episode for today and it deals with the first story from Chapter 16 of Phase 4 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. This story looks at two men who "fell out" or OD'd from heroin. Mohammed was saved by CPR and Narcan. Webster died and was moved to the bushes and robbed by his friends. Mohammed chose life and never did any drugs again. What experiences have you had or witnessed with OD? What changes would you make if you, like Mohammed, chose life? Webster's OD happened on his first bag after two months in rehab. What was his mistake? What would be your mistake that doesn't seem like a mistake in the moment?
Welcome to Wacky Wednesday! In today's episode we look at Brian's story from Chapter 15 of Phase 4 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. This story has to do with finding spirituality in rehab and how Brian found transformation as a result of finding spirituality. What things have your eyes been opened up to in rehab, a homeless shelter, prison, a halfway house? How has your faith and understanding grown? How has it become your new foundation for character development? These questions and more in this episode.
Today's episode is a walkabout through Bald Face Lies Park. These types of lies are the ones where they are obvious lies and the one telling the lie doesn't really care if they get caught in the lie because they have more lies ready to tell. In the [ark we'll look at five categories of bald faced lies that addicts tell and how these lies affect their family, their friends and themselves.
This is today's second Wacky Wednesday episode and it deals with Chapter 14 in Phase 4 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. We will look at stories about spiritual warfare and other aspects of attacks on you and your strength in recovery. What aspects of your life seem to always be under attack as you try to stay strong in recovery? How do you deal with these attacks? These questions and so much more in today's episode.
Welcome to today's Wacky Wednesday episode as we start Phase 4 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. This episode is from Chapter 13 of Phase 4 and deals with the story of IOU. We look at those people who trouble us and what we have learned in recovery by influencing us to turn to others ideas and reject what they told us in rehab or in the program. IOU's story ends with him waiting for the morning bus to go back to rehab, but for him the morning never came. Are you ready to stop waiting for tomorrow, for your morning bus?
Today's episode is a group session with my friends in recovery from Australia, South Africa and the US. I know you will enjoy their insight and responses to this topic: "Therapists and psychologists often teach people to set healthy boundaries. But I often find that these don't work with addicts. The problem with healthy boundaries is the addict or recovering addict may feel their unjust, unfair or excessive AND react with resentment and a desire to test them."
This is the second Wacky Wednesday podcast episode for today and this covers Step 12 of the 12 Steps. We look at the first story from Chapter 12 in Phase 3 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum, The Story of Kathy. She found her spiritual awakening through a search for unconditional love. Have you found your spiritual awakening at this point in your recovery? How will you carry your message to others in addiction? What makes you hesitate to share it?
This Wacky Wednesday episode looks at the challenge of Step 11 to "improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him." We look at the story of Jose and his heart change as he was in a rehab in the El Segundo section of Philadelphia. We see in Jose the importance of getting serious about the homework in recovery, digging deep and finding motivation to make recovery work this time.
Recovery is like a jigsaw puzzle. One piece at a time. One day at a time. Many people that I work with in recovery talk about the "something missing" in their life or in their recovery. Many search frantically like someone searching for the puzzle piece that must have fallen on the floor or under the couch. Today's episode looks at what could be that missing piece in your recovery and how we can complete the puzzle.
This is the second Wacky Wednesday episode for today and it deals with Chapter 10 of Phase 3 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. In this chapter we look at Step 10 of the 12 Steps which has us take a personal inventory and to promptly admit our wrongs. Looking at the story of Val we ask questions including, What was Val's emotional pain? What emotional pain do you carry every day? How do you talk to someone about your emotional pain and how it causes bad decisions? What would be the red flags that would be a warning that you need to dig deeper into staying open and honest about your emotions?
Today's Wacky Wednesday episode deals with the story of Nicky and Daisy from Chapter 9 of Phase 3 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. This looks at Step 9 of the 12 Steps on making amends. After the story we look at questions about making amends with your daughter for not being there for them during your addiction. What's the difference between making amends and restitution? Is making amends saying I'm sorry for my behavior or can you apologize for the emotional pain you inflicted on the victims of your addiction?
Today's episode is the result of lots of feedback after recent episodes where we heard stories of the young women who were being pimped by Germaine. He had told each one that he loved them. The common theme in the messages I received was that the women were not seeking drugs, they were seeking the feeling of being loved and the men they found got them hooked on drugs and turned them into hookers!
This episode is the second Wacky Wednesday episode for today and it looks at Noreen's story from Chapter 8 of Phase 3 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. This also is an introduction to Step 8 of the Twelve Steps which focuses on acknowledging the harm we did to people and being willing to make amends. In Noreen's story we look at questions including: How would you describe Noreen's mom's feelings about having to raise Noreen's daughter? What pain and heartache would need to be addressed in making amends? What simple acts of normalcy could facilitate reconciliation with people you have harmed in your addcition?
This is the first of our two Wacky Wednesday episodes for today. This one is the story of Donald from Chapter 7 of Phase 3 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. The topic of step 7 is to humbly ask Him to remove our shortcomings. Donald's story looks at his change from quiet and hard to talk with, to him asking for help and humbly talking about his struggles in addiction. What characteristics are shortcomings in you that hinder your recovery? How can you reach the point of humility?
Today's podcast is a group session with my friends in recovery from Australia, South Africa and the US. I'm sure you'll find several nuggets of wisdom as they answer the following question. Which phrase can you identify with in your addiction, hitting bottom or aha moment of clarity? 1) I felt like I got a death sentence, 2) I'm the weakest I've ever been or 3) time to learn what strength is.
This Wacky Wednesday episode is the story of Stew from Chapter 6 in Phase 3 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. We look at what it means to be entirely ready to have all of your character defects removed. Are you ready to look at every stone and talk about each and every defect of character? What is your weakness that left you vulnerable to get hooked before you knew it? What work do you need to do to put a plan for change or rehab into motion? What weakness do you still have as a character defect which could unravel your recovery?
Today's Wacky Wednesday is the first story in Phase 3 Chapter 5 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. We hear Germaine's story. (episode # 256 introduces Germaine) Germaine had a moment where he was truly broken, all pretense was gone and he decided to stop being a pimp and drug dealer and return home to Georgia.
Discussion questions look at: what is your true heart nature? What do you need to change to let your heart win over your addiction? What pretenses of power, control and manipulation would need to be gone? These questions and more should stir you to talking to someone.
Today's episode is a walkabout through Landmines in Recovery Park. I go on this walkabout with Neil, a friend of Michael. Neil shares how it seems like everything that is a common part of recovery is feeling like another landmine in the field for him. Join us as he shares how emotional triggers, coping skills, mistakes, family and success are all landmines that keep exploding in his walk of recovery.
Welcome to the second Wacky Wednesday episode for today. This is the beginning of Phase 3 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum which focuses on moral regeneration and positive character development. It also marks the return to the Twelve Steps and the chapter covers step 4. This episode looks at the story of Lisa her life in addiction, living in a home with 7 other women which was run by Germaine who kept all of the women addicted and in prostitution. But he also privately told each new woman who arrived "I love and I promise to take care of you."
Welcome to Wacky Wednesday. This episode is the poem written by Gregory Williams entitled "The Lord's Love". This is also from Chapter 12 of Phase 2 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum which is entitled "The Heart in Need of Restoration Not Rehabilitation. What's the difference between those two terms? How do we find restoration for our heart and our life in recovery? These questions and more await you in this podcast.
In today's episode we listen to the journal entry of William, a 20 year old in Tower of Life Men's Shelter in Krugersdorp, South Africa. William shares his thoughts and questions. Who am I? What am I? I feel like a stranger. Feels like there's something missing in my life. Where is everyone? What happened to me?
I'm sure you will be challenged and encouraged as you listen to this podcast epiosde.
This episode is the second Wacky Wednesday podcast for today and it deals with the first story in Chapter 11 of Phase 2 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. This chapter is entitled The Heart in Need of Fellowship and the story is the story of Ross as he was living in a half way house after incarceration for a sexual offense. Key questions from his story are: Where do you find real fellowship? How would you define it? Does isolation fuel bad choices? How can fellowship help you make positive choices and put you in control of your future?
Welcome to Wacky Wednesday as we go through the first story from Phase 2 and Chapter 19 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. This is the story of Neil and his childhood of rape and incest at the hands of his uncle. Neil shares the doubts, fears and pain that riddled his mind. How these memories convinced him that "everything ends in futility and frustration. When I met Neil in prison at age 50 he was still searching for someone he could trust.
Today's podcast is a group episode with my friends in recovery from Australia, South Africa and the US. You'll enjoy their insight as they answer these questions. What did alcohol, drugs or porn give you the courage to do? When did you realize the courage was counterfeit?
Today's second Wacky Wednesday episode is from Chapter 9 of Phase 2 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum entitled The Heart Holding On to Fear and Pain. Discussion topics from this episode include questions like: What fears, anger, resentments, doubts, hatred are you holding on to? How do you begin to let go of them? How would you describe the distorted security and comfort you feel by embracing the familiar pain?
Today's Wacky Wednesday is a story from Chapter 8 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum entitled The Heart of an Outcast. As we listen to Paul's story of being an outcast we have many questions to think about and discuss. Were you called names because of your appearance? Were you an outcast? What did you do to feel accepted? How were your feelings of self esteem and self worth? Did addiction numb those feelings?
Our group of guys in recovery from Australia, South Africa and the US answer these questions on today's episode. What is the one thing in the world you loved doing most before you became an addict? What was it during your addiction? What is it now in your sobriety?
I'm sure you'll be encouraged as you hear their answers about stolen joy in childhood, counterfeit comforters in addiction and restoration of a true identity in sobriety.
Here's the second episode for today's Wacky Wednesday. The topic is Chapter 7 of Phase 2 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. The title of the chapter is The Heart that Feels Alone, Abandoned or Rejected. We'll listen to the first story from this chapter about the childhood wounds of a man named Larry that I met in Lancaster County Prison in Pennsylvania. And we'll discuss questions including: How did your parental household dynamic affect your childhood? Did you ever feel that you were "just there?" Did you have a dormant childhood wound that blossomed in your teens and resulted in you being labeled rebellious? What words of rejection did you hear that scared you for life?
In this Wacky Wednesday episode we look at two stories from Chapter 6 of Phase 2 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. The chapter is entitled The Heart of Broken Dreams. As we dig deeper we look at questions including: Did addiction become your new dream life? What were your high school dreams? When did they die? What condemning words have you heard that killed your dreams? Thanks for listening to this episode. Feel free to send me any comments you may have.
This is a walkabout episode as we stroll together through Hot or Not Park. This park was designed to help people stay on a hot streak in their recovery. Here are some quotes we'll find on the park signs for discussion. "A lack of transparency builds distrust and a deep sense of insecurity." Dalai Lama
"Surround yourself with a bunch of like-minded people, and you'll soak up their habits like a starved sponge." Vir Das
"Don't compare yourself with other people; compare yourself with who you were yesterday." Jordan Peterson
This is the second Wacky Wednesday episode for today and it presents snippets from 3 stories from Chapter 5 of Phase 2 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. This chapter is entitled The Heart of Addicts Worldwide. Aspects for discussion include the following questions. How do you determine that someone is "safe" to open up to about your addiction? What keeps you dipping and dabbing as you cut down on your use but can't completely stop? What aspects of your addiction are you blase' about?
Today's Wacky Wednesday episode is the opening story from chapter 4 of phase 2 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. The chapter deals with forgiveness and this episode looks at one person's story of addiction. As you listen to Debbie's story reflect on the various levels of self forgiveness that she needed to find. We have 8 questions for discussion in this episode to start you on your journey of self forgiveness.
Today's episode is in response to feedback from episode # 239. Many people asked for more ideas to help them uncover their childhood wound. In this episode we look at six categories of childhood wounds: neglect, betrayal, guilt, abandonment, rejection and suffocation. If you would like to join an online group or have a one on one online session, contact me by email at davidfroma2d@gmail.com
In this Wacky Wednesday episode we discuss the introductory passages to Chapter 3 of phase 2 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. The chapter is entitled "The Heart That Yearns for Peace" and we read the diary of Goo. He was a heroin addict in the Kensington section of Philadelphia and he wrote his "diary" on the walls of his abando on Sterner Street. Join us as we look as his struggle to quit, to say "this was my last high", to get help, to believe he could be one who makes it to sobriety.
Goo yearned for peace, to find the innocence and happiness of his youth. Are you ready to chase recovery? Do you yearn for peace? How will you make protecting your peace your new core value?
This is the first Wacky Wednesday episode as we will continue with two of these every Wednesday for the remainder of 2024. That will allow us to finish the curriculum and still have our regular episodes every Monday.
Today we look at questions about your drug of choice becoming your shepherd. Did it provide all your wants? Where did it make you lie down? What did it destroy? Did it rob your head of reason?
Tune in for these questions and more.
Today's episode is the introduction to phase 2 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum which deals with discovering, uncovering and healing our heart wounds which caused or fueled our addiction. Chapter 1 of phase 2 is entitled The Battle For a Heart and it opens with the poem, My Childhood, by Gregory Williams. The key of this moving poem is that the author is searching for someone who will truly see his childhood and understand what it's like being him as an adult. We touch on topics for discussion like abandonment, physical abuse, emotional abuse and the death of parents. The episode closes with the question, "Can we heal the confusion by finding one person who truly understands?"
Today's episode looks at the story from Chapter 3 of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. We look at nine discussion points from the story such as: How do you pray? Are you ready to ask for help? Are you ready to stick and stay?Thanks for all of the feedback from the previous episodes and, yes, I will continue to make an episode for each of the 30 chapters of the curriculum. So if you're an addict, a loved one of an addict, in recovery, a life coach, therapist an outreach worker - these episodes are for you!
Today's episode is in response to the numerous requests I got to episode # 235. Listeners loved Doug's story and seeing how to dig deeper into the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. So this episode will be Cadillac's story from chapter two of the book and it deals with step 2 of the 12 Steps. As you listen jot down some words that click with you from the story. We'll discuss ten points that I feel are important during this episode. The title Who's In Charge refers to Cadillac being in charge of the abando and his knowledge of the power in charge of his his healing and freedom from the snare of addiction
Have you used the phrase "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired" as your reason or motivation to to detox or rehab? What did you do when you began to feel better and you were no longer sick or tired? Many guys have relapsed when they had those feelings. Or they convinced themselves to leave the rehab early because they were convinced that they felt better so they were strong enough to go it alone. In today's episode we look at this situation and talk about ways to find motivation and strength in recovery after our original motivation is gone.
Today's episode is a look at the first story of chapter one of the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum. Often I've heard people say things like "It's about heroin, and I never did heroin. So I can't relate to that!" the truth is addiction is addiction is addict. We all go through the same thoughts and activities in addiction regardless of our drug of choice. As I read the opening story about one afternoon with Doug in the El Segundo section of Philadelphia we look for 12 phrases that can be points of connection that each of us make to our addiction. So whether your an addict, a friend/family member or a counselor, this episode is for you!
Today's episode is a walkabout in Cherophobia Park. I'm sure you will be able to identify with the responses the guys wrote in the journals at each of the signs in the park. The signs identify the three telltale signs of cherophobia: 1) avoiding happiness, 2) worrying that happiness will cause bad things and 3) experiencing anxiety about social situations. As you go on this walkabout with me today think about what trauma or childhood experience has gotten in the way of you embracing joy in your life.
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In today's episode, my friends in recovery share their insight and personal experience on this topic. you will be challenged and encouraged in your work in recovery as you listen to things like: the daunting 12 Promise of AA, the haunting confusion when a pillar of the recovery community has a major relapse and much more.
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Today's episode is a walkabout with my friend Michael through I'm So Embarrassed park. Join us as we look at the complex emotion of embarrassment, how we react to it, how we process it and how we grow from it. Author Miguel Ruiz wrote "When you look in the mirror and hate what you see, you need addictions to survive." But NBA basketball player Jalen Rose said "Embarrassment is where growth happens." On this walkabout we talk about both extremes and a bunch in between.
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Today's episode is a group meeting with my six friends in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia. Listen as they share their wisdom and their journey in learning to let go of the past, people, memories etc. And discovering how to fill their cup with what is new, what is now and what is beneficial to their recovery. Key points included the importance of spirituality and staying in a mindset to be ready to pour out the blessings that they received to bless others.
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Do you believe in Santa Claus? What changed if you stopped believing? Did you reach the age where you were Santa Claus to your children, nieces or nephews? Are you at the age in life where you look like Santa Claus? Today we look at those questions and the aspects of Santa Claus bringing joy, happiness, cheer around the world. How can we apply the lifestyle of Santa Claus into our everyday life in recovery?
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Are you someone who starts recovery, who starts a new curriculum, who finds a new self help book and is on fire? But quickly the fires begins to die down and you are just going through the motions? This episode looks at how to get back on track. How to follow the plan, not your mood swings! Remember, the plan is not just knowing your goal or destination. The plan includes the work you must do to keep the plan an active thing. Are you prepared for the work of recovery? I love the quote by Abraham Lincoln "Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe."
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Today's episode is a walkabout with Michael through Patience Park. He had shared his struggles with being patient, with wanting everything instantly and with getting into arguments repeatedly. Some key quotes are: "Patience attracts happiness; it brings near that which is far," a Swahili proverb and "Patience is when you're supposed to get mad, but you choose to understand." anonymous. I hope you enjoy Michael's questions and wisdom as he openly shares his struggle to be patient with himself, with others and with his journey of recovery.
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In today's episode we look at the Japanese art form of kintsugi. In kintsugi the artist takes broken pottery or glass an joins them together with gold dusting over all of the "scars" or the seams where the pieces are glued together. We compare the steps in this process to the aspects we need to focus on as we deal with our own broken pieces from our past. and we find encouragement in the quote by Penny Reid "A break is something to remember, something of value, a way to make the oiece more beautiful, rather than something to disguise. They use gold, not invisible superglue because mistakes shouldn't be considered ugly."
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Does your past keep you caught in the identity of an addict or an addict in recovery? Maybe you have begun to identify yourself by how many days, months or years you have been clean. In this episode we look at the 5 P's of identity and the process of growing in self-acceptance so to can focus on your new identity. Lao Tzu said "Knowing others is intelligence, knowing yourself is true wisdom."
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What's the difference between a do and a relapse? Between a lapse and a relapse? What causes slips? How do we keep a skip from becoming a full blown relapse? What do we do if we're the loved one of someone who tells us they had a slip? These questions and more in today's episode.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This episode is a walkabout through Beautiful Scars Park with my good friend Michael. Join us as we look at the scars we have, the stuff that caused them and how they have shaped our character. I like the quote by Demi Lovato who said "I think scars are like battle wounds - beautiful in a way. They show what you've been through and how strong you are for coming out of it."--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a walkabout through Thankful Park. It's more than just an "attitude of gratitude." It's about finding a way to grow a thankful heart. Cicero said it's the greatest virtue. How can we be thankful for the struggle and find our strength? How can we be thankful that thorns have roses rather than complaining about the thorns? Join us on the walkabout as we reflect on these ideas.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This episode is a follow up to episode # 216 entitled One Truth. I got quite a few messages from listeners asking how to find the truth. So here goes. Today we look at ways to find the truth, to experience it and to apply it. We also look at things in us that may be acting as blockages to the truth. It's important that we become aware of the blockage and remove them. Equally important is to understand that the search for the truth is often a community effort, not a solitary act of digging deeper or introspection. I hope you enjoy today's episode. Leo the feedback coming!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a walkabout. Join me as I go through this park. The motivation for this episode was a message from a listener who said "David, I feel like I'm plodding along in recovery with a millstone around my neck." I hope that every listener finds understanding of their millstone and the motivation to take off that millstone and move forward. As Angeli Delgado said "It is far beyond time for you to leave your past behind you. Clinging to the past is a slow poison, killing your present, your future possibilities, holding you in a prison of existence, smothering your life."--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Thanks for joining Michael and me as we go for a walkabout in Words Hurt Park. How have words, labels, and name calling hurt you over the years? Have you begun to label yourself? Where can you turn to find healing from the wounds and crushed spirit you have as a result of hurtful words? Join us to start the process of restoring a cheerful heart and self confidence.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode looks at this poem written in the 1900s by American motivational writer William Arthur Ward. Listen to hear some keys to find adventure, purpose, essence, spice and beauty in life... AND so much more!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a follow up to last week's podcast on Ten Minute Friends. I'll be going on a walkabout with my friend Michael in I'm Glad I Spoke With You Today Park. I hope you find strength as he responds to quotes like : "Sometimes I feel like I don't know where I am." "It's like I'm in a world that's changed and I'm trying but...." "So I watch everything I once had and loved, still love, fly away." --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
How many friends do you really have? I'm not talking about friends on Facebook or Instagram. I mean friends that will meet with you in person or talk to you on the phone for ten minutes everyday, out a few times a week, at least once a week. The key for me is: I'd rather hear your story than read about your story on social media.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a group session with our guys in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia. I'm sure you will be encouraged by their one truth as they answer this question: "What's the one truth that you learned in childhood, or in addiction, or in recovery that has become a core value in who you are as a man? By core value, I mean it is stronger than just a belief. It defines who you are. It's something you always want to share with a child, with a friend or even with a stranger you meet.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
For today's episode, I go on a walkabout with my friend Michael who has been struggling to establish a recovery for more than five years. On the walkabout we discuss these words by American author and historian Edward Everett Hale: "I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something, and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do."--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This is a group episode with our guys in recovery from Australia, South Africa and the US. They share their journey in response to this question "If we can help you make sense of why you became an addict, can you make sense of the choice of recovery?" --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a walkabout in Outside Looking In park. Join us as we reduce on this topic. What does it mean to be on the outside looking in? Do you feel like you've always been on the outside looking in? Where do you belong? Where do you fit in? Do you find out hard to even explain yourself to friends and family? How go you find the courage to risk rejection and get connected? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a group meeting where our guys in recovery in the US, Australia and South Africa trains to this quote "You can't do the next right thing, if you always ignore this moment's right thing." What are the thieves that steal your enjoyment of the present moment? How do we find the inner strength and courage to do the next right thing? Are you caught in a rut of neglecting today's important issues? How can you use the Steps to focus on personal inventory to build the best version of yourself? Listen as our guys share their insight.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a walkabout through Keep Walking park. How do we stay focused on self care and our recovery when our loved ones say things like "Don't try to convince me that you've changed." Or "Tell it to yourself as you walk out the door!" The key is to learn to walk in silence, not for others to see. Just keep walking.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This episode is a walkabout through A Desolate Place park. Many guys I work with have relapsed because of feeling the sadness of being abandoned or forsaken as a result of their addiction. Join me on this walkabout as we find encouragement and hope to leave the place of desolation and see each new road roll out like a welcome mat to a better place, even if we have no kinda plan.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a walkabout in The Older I Get park. No this is not just for pensioners or retired people! We are all getting older everyday. What have you learned or view differently at your present age than you did a few years ago? In this walkabout we react to quotes like this one by Karen Salmansohn "The older I get the more I realize the importance of walking away from people and situations which threaten my peace of mind. Plus my self respect, values and self worth."--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Who are the mockers in your life? Those people who are always teasing you or showing contempt. What is a mocker in your life? The things that drain your energy or maybe dilute your hope. What are the things that you give in to them because you think it's no big deal. Then you find out they caused you to return to full blown addiction. Listen to this episode to see how to say no to mockers.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a group session. Our guys in recovery share their reactions to this quote by American humorist Will Rogers "Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment." I hope you can hear a nugget of good for you in their answers.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
In this episode we look at the Japanese concept of Ikigai which translates as our reason to live. The four elements of Ikigai are: 1) your passion - what you love, 2) your vocation - what you're good at, 3) your mission - what the world needs and 4) your profession - what you can be paid for. We're not looking to have you develop a new five year plan, but how you can apply these concepts in your everyday life.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This is a walkabout episode as we walk together in Glimmer of Hope Park. Many you asked for this topic after you listened to episode # 202. I hope you enjoy this look at how we find a Glimmer of Hope in the darkness that surrounds us and crushes our incentive to risk hoping again. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
In today's group episode or guys in recovery discuss the quote by Desmond Tutu "There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they're taking in." Listen to our guys input about faith, connectedness, fellowship and relationship as well as their warning to not pull someone out too soon.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a walkabout. Join me as we walk through a park dedicated to the poetry of Pablo Neruda, Chilean who won the Nobel Prize for Literature. In this path we look at his poem entitled "You Start Slowly Dying." We'll use his poem to see ways that we may be slowly dying in our addiction and begin to uncover small steps of life that we can start taking today.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Do you know what glimmers are? Well, think of them as the opposite of triggers. In this episode we look at the importance of knowing our glimmers, seeking them out, gathering them and understanding how they are related to each of our five senses. I hope as you listen to this episode you will see how glimmers let you know that the world is okay!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
In this walkabout episode we go on a walk on Flat Tire Trail. The trail has that name because many of us don't realize that we have attitudes in our life that have become a flat tire. Listen to this episode to understand what your flat tire may be and to find the encouragement to change that attitude, change that flat tire, so you can reach your destination in life.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Join us on celebrating 200 episodes as guys in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia share their favourite memories from this podcast and why they like being part of it. If you're not in a group please feel free to contact me and I'll do my best to get you connected.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is another walkabout as we look at emotional, social and existential loneliness. Being lonely is a physical state. Feeling lonely is an emotional state. Today we dig into the emotions of loneliness and being broken or brokenhearted. Two key quotes from this episode are: "The only thing keeping you from being happy is the belief that you are alone." by Anna Draper and "What a lovely surprise to finally discover his unlonely begin asking can be." by Ellen Burstyn--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This episode is a walkabout to reflect on the prison of addiction and things that made us feel like we were in chains. Here's two opening signs as we enter the park for this walkabout: 1) Addiction imprisons your mind, your body, your spirit, your soul. We put ourselves in that prison. We don't need to be arrested by the police. 2) A quote by Keith Richards "I've never had a problem with drugs. I've had problems with the police "--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Let's take a walkabout together to look at addiction and where we or our loved ones fit in the spectrum of substance use disorder. On this walk we'll look at the 11 evaluation criteria of the DSM 5 as well as a variety of other definitions of addiction. Is it a disease? A brain disorder? Bondage? Or simply choosing to chase pleasure?--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Have you ever said to yourself "I can get clean, I just can't seem to stay clean"? Does it seem like every door to recovery that you try is a revolving door, which only leads to relapse and return to rehab for another try at sobriety? Today we look at four stages of recovery: stability, strategy, security and freedom. These help us focus on the journey of recovery and how to get out of the revolving door.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today we look at several acronyms for fear and how they apply in recovery. This is not another time of saying False Evidence Appearing Real. Fear is a real emotion. We need to look at our response to fear when it rises up. Maybe you're one who has always responded with Forget Everything And Run. Now is the time to develop the strength, courage and confidence to Face Everything And Rise!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today is a group episode with our friends in recovery from the US and South Africa. Listen to their insight as they share their experience about the journey from wanting revenge to sitting still in patience. They share their wisdom in response to this quote "If you sit by the river for long enough, you will see the body of your enemy float by." As you listen remember that "The more anger you hold in your heart towards the past, the less capable you are of loving the present."--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Do you struggle with negative thoughts and intrusive voices? Do you find yourself informed by these thoughts and reacting with poor choices? Then it's time to begin to develop Power Over Your Mind! Marcus Aurelius reminds us that we do have power over our mind and that helps us to avoid getting caught up in outside events. He also said "The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts." Listen to this episode for ideas on improving the quality of your thoughts and gaining Power Over Your Mind.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Enjoy as you listen to our group of six guys in recovery from Australia, South Africa and the US as they react to the following quote by Mother Theresa "We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty." I'm sure they will touch your memories and your hearts as they describe their greatest poverty, how they number the pain and how they found healing.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Do you find yourself slipping and stumbling in your recovery? Today we look at what causes us to lose our footing in recovery. AND then we discuss four things we can do to get our foundation established and have strong and stable footing in recovery. We don't have to live in fear of slippery floors or road surfaces as we travel our journey of recovery. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
What is the damage done by your years in addiction? In this episode we look at many areas of damage and how we learn to accept them with grace in our recovery. How do we find grace when we're battling so much grief for all that we lost because of our addiction? One of the keys is realizing that in our addiction we knew the price of everything and the value of nothing! In recovery we begin to find the splendor of the value of things by gracefully accepting the damage done.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's group episode looks at the necessity of learning to manage the triggers that you cannot avoid. This includes people like friends and family, places like work situations and family gatherings, and things like money or thoughts that tempt us. Our guys in recovery share the things they employ to help them manage their triggers like pictures of their new life, honesty about how we can be our own worst trigger, scripture verses and song lyrics. If you want to join a group to help you Manage Your Triggers please message me.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Are you stuck in mediocrity? Do you struggle to keep your momentum going as you walk in recovery? In this episode we look at things that slow down our momentum, drain our energy or sap our enthusiasm. How can we get our momentum back when we find ourselves sliding into that same old level of mediocrity? I believe a key is in the choices we make every day. Choices in the moment have enormous weight when they become momentum!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's group episode looks at books or quotes that are precious to each of us in our recovery. The guys in the group react to this quote by Wilferd Peterson "It is time to browse through the precious books that have meant the most to you, that you may rediscover illuminating phrases and sentences to light your pathway to the future." I hope as you listen to this episode you will be motivated to "rediscover" your previous books and hold them close.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
The old proverb says that opportunity knocks but once. This has led to that "seize the day" mantra. In today's episode we look at what keeps us from seizing an opportunity and how we prepare to know if the opportunity is the right one for us. We're challenged with the thought of opportunities seeking you rather than you chasing after them. And what we think about squandered opportunities. Enjoy, listen and share with your friends.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode deals with making amends. Got other episodes on this topic check out #44 and #131. In this episode we look at our hopes as a result of making amends. Do you hope for reconciliation in your marriage, in the lives of your children, etc? Do you hope to have your status as head of the household and your respect and dignity restored? Are these hopes even realistic? Listen to this episode and see.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This episode is another group session with my friends in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia. I'm sure you will be motivated as you listen to their answers to this question: One issue in recovery is developing compassion for those parts of ourselves that are unwanted or ignored or misunderstood by those we care about. Can you share one part of yourself that is important to you but not so much to others?--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
What keeps you strong in recovery? Is it stuff like meetings, programs, or a good job? Today we look at the importance of learning how to be resilient in the midst of all the burdens, demands, expectations, pressures and stressors we gave every day in recovery. How do we bounce back from life's situations and circumstances before they knock us down emotionally? Before we turn to our old comforters to numb the pain? The answer is resilience!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
What does "catch you on the flip side" mean? Where did that phrase come from? Today we look at writing our flip side of life. A chance to start over and to turn from our past vices to tomorrow's virtues. What have we learned from the past? What good aspects of our past can we hold onto in our recovery? I hope you enjoy today's episode.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
In today's group session episode we look at this question. People say we all have 3 versions of ourselves: 1) the person you think you are 2) the person other people see and 3) the person you really are. What does it mean to be the best version of yourself? How do you live that out or walk in it? Listen as our guys in recovery reflect on this questions.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Are you someone who always says the grass is greener on the other side of the fence? Do you find yourself hesitant at new opportunities in recovery? Are you focused on and always talking about the things you can't do? If so, then this episode is for you. Remember "There is no flak jacket against self sabotage!" See episode #120 for more on Self Sabotage.
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This episode is another group meeting with guys in recovery from the US, Australia and South Africa. Listen to their ideas on the differences between the world view of being identified because of our past behaviors vs the kingdom view of finding your identity in your faith. Hear how each guy looks at his past, finds strength and safety in the present, and has hope for the future.
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In this episode we take a look at what we do in From A2D. How we are motivated by all three: passion, purpose and compassion to walk in living what we do and sitting love for people caught in the snare of addiction. Not simply focused on fixing them or having them come right, but helping them find healing and wholeness. We do this by meeting them where they are at and listening to their feelings, not judging their behavior. The quote by Rumi has become our focus "Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange pull of what you really love. It will not lead you astray." --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Let's look at those situations and relationships we get ourselves into where we feel like we're stuck in quicksand and it's going to swallow us up. Why do we keep running back to the same people and situations that are quicksand to us? We need to not just deal with it, but to process it and feel it so that we can find our second wind which will carry us through to better days ahead.
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We all need to develop a lifestyle of course correction to keep us focused on our destination. It's normal to get distracted, side-tracked or to veer off course every now and then. The key is to continue the journey, not stop and wallow in the shame of our mistake or the self-pity of the unfair thing that happened to us. Winds change and we need to learn how to keep sailing regardless. A good tool would be to develop your own "course correction inventory" AND begin to use it!
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Today's episode is a group session as our guys in recovery from Australia, South Africa and the US share their feelings from episode # 173. Listen to their just of complicated grief in seeing the hurt their children carry, in stab wounds from the church, in physical and mental Spectra that make us feel like we're 70 even though we're 40, and in more aspects of grief. Listen, share with a few friends and help each other find healing and wholeness.
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Today's episode is a walkabout on last week's Complicated Grief episode. We'll look at four listeners' comments as they reached out to me with their issues of grief. Maybe you feel like everyone is ready to throw stones of condemnation at you. Or you now realize that you have glossed over many things that you should have processed earlier in life. Perhaps you were an introvert in a family of extroverts and still feel the pain of being an embarrassment to your family. Or maybe you're dealing with the pain of not being trusted, even by the church that you have turned to for strength and support in your recovery. If any of this sounds like you, then this episode is for you!
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Today's episode is about an often overlooked aspect of recovery, Complicated Grief. Specifically we'll be discussing the grief about the things we lost as consequences of our addiction. This includes things like: the loss of your marriage, the ability to see or maintain a relationship with your kids, loss of your career, your house, etc. This grief can settle in as our new core value AFTER we have started recovery. If so the result is relapse!
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This is a group session podcast as the guys share what they would plant in their garden that would be a good reminder in their journey of recovery. What trees, bushes, tall grasses, short grasses, teas, herbs and flowers would you plant AND why? Listen as the guys share their thoughts and share this episode with friends.
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Let's look at what core values are and why it's so important to know your own personal core values. Many people think they're the same as your beliefs, but I propose that our core values are stronger than our beliefs. And we need to understand what our core values are that were caused by and shaped by childhood trauma and emotional wounds. For a list of 216 for values go to www.scienceofpeople.com/core-values/ and check out the article entitled The Only 216 Values You'll Ever Need by Logan Hailey.
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This episode is a group meeting with the guys in recovery from the US, Australia and South Africa. The discussion question is "How do you deal with being hurt by the church (people in your church and other believers) when they judge where you're at in your recovery from the world's perspective? Listen to advice from "stay in your lane" to "draw close to the ones you trust." You'll also hear the journey to becoming unoffendable and the painful walk of hurt from church leadership. We end by saying "I'm not Humpty Dumpty!" Listen to find out why.
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In this episode we look at the belief that we have time to change and we can wait until we're ready. But before we know a decade has gone by and we're still caught up in pornography, drugs or alcohol addiction. When asked what's the biggest mistake we make in life the Buddha replied, "The biggest mistake is you think you have time." Yes time is free, but it's priceless. Don't squander your time and waste the hours away until one day you wake up and tell years have gone by and you're still stuck. I like the anonymous quote "You can't give your life more time, do give the time you have left more life."
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Are you tempted by forbidden fruit? Is it because you're rebellious? Or maybe you're innocently curious because it's "forbidden". In today's episode we look at why we want to grab ahold of forbidden fruit and how we can get empowered to break free from that temptation. Share it with two friends and chat with each other about your journey in this area.
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This is a walkabout episode where I "meet" four people and ask for their thoughts about Father's Day. Listen to how they are handling not seeing dad on Father's Day. One young man never met his dad and now he's deceased. Another who never met his dad is dealing with the fact that now that he's 25 his dad wants to meet him. The third is an elderly man who could never live up to his dad's expectations. The fourth is a mom who will not allow her dad to be part of her childrens' lives. Listen and share with a friend, or maybe your dad.
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We take a walkabout on "Motivation Mountain" for today's episode and look at questions like: Are you always trying to take the easy way out? Looking for shortcuts? Sliding through life without facing challenges or handling consequences? If the answer is yes, you may be a day tripper! As we walkabout we look at motivational quotes feeling with adversity, pushing through, believing in yourself, staying optimistic and making every day count. Join me on this walkabout and share with your friends.
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In today's episode we look at Xylazine, what it is, what are symptoms of use and health risks. We also give suggestions on what to do if you are a heroin user and not sure if it contains tranq. And we outline the reasons why dealers are bulking up their fentanyl laced heroin with Xylazine. Key resources are: www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/deaths/other-drugs/xylazine and the flyer from Philly is at www.substanceusephilly.com--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
We've heard about the opioid epidemic in the US for years. Are you aware that we're hearing more about it as more overdoses occur? And that the spike in annual overdoses is directly related to the introduction of fentanyl as a profit making additive into many illicit street drugs. In today's episode we'll look at what fentanyl is and why dealers would sell drugs laced with fentanyl if so many people are dying of overdose. This is a "must listen" episode. Please share it with your friends and neighbors.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Dr. Fred Luskin said, "There is a season for our suffering and regret. We have to have that. But the season ends; the world moves on. And we need to move on with it." In today's episode we look at the need to forgive yourself as the wise choice to move on from pain and suffering. Can you believe in yourself enough to forgive and love yourself?--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
In this episode we look at the voices in our head that often prod us to use or act out in our addiction. How do we silence these voices? Do they only go silent when we take them to their "home" in addiction? The key to silence those voices is to stay in the present. I hope you find the tip of how to stay connected to your five senses as an effective way to silence those voices.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today we'll look at the things that we hold on to or cling to so tightly that they begin to redefine us. We stay focused on the thought that everything happens for a purpose, that it has come to pass, like a natural flow of events. How can we learn that the only constant in life is change? The best way to embrace change is to allow all things to pass. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a walkabout where I share feedback from four listeners. They each talked about how they feel disrespected. Has being disrespected become your normal, your comfort zone? How do you handle it when someone actually accepts you? What boundaries have you learned to put up over the years of disrespect? Well, the best boundary is learning to speak up and tell people what you like and don't like. Don't let anyone get comfortable with disrespecting you!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This episode is in response to comments and questions from listeners to episode # 158 "Victims of Violence." The listeners said they don't struggle with violence but paralysis caused by fears. Fear of getting hurt again. Fear of trusting anyone. Feeling that everyone has and will always be against them. One listener shared their struggle to learn to be grateful for what they have instead of hateful for what they lost. I want to encourage you to listen and share this episode with two friends and then sit down with them, talk about your fears and learn the secret of life in conquering fears everyday.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's walkabout looks at how the pain we have felt as a victim of violence can live on inside of us for a long, long time. This can be true whether the violence that we felt was physical, sexual, emotional, psychological or economic. Chris Hedges an American journalist said "Violence is a disease, a disease that corrupts all who use it regardless of the cause." Please listen and share this poignant episode with your friends and family.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode of a walkabout through Old City Philadelphia where I come across historical signs with quotes from Poor Richard's Almanack written by Benjamin Franklin between 1733 and 1758. Join me as we pause, read and reflect on the wisdom for recovery in these proverbs written to readers in colonial America.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a group session with our guys in recovery from the US, Australia and South Africa. They shared their experiences in relation to two quotes: 1) "Sometimes, it is how you shine in the darkness during other people's misery that is remembered more than anything you could have said or done when you have suffered just as much." Shannon L. Alder. 2) "It's not about being good. It's about releasing good." Craig D. Lounsbrough. For further information about Ben's story and the Stephen Ministry go to www.stephenministries.org--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
In today's walkabout episode we Mark Twain's quote "History never repeats itself, but it does often rhyme." Have you been blindsided in the past when you were vigilant in avoiding your triggers, but didn't see the patterns that were the rhymes? Often the patterns are hard to identify because they feel familiar but they are packaged differently. I invite you to walk with me, to journey together, as I go on a walkabout to see how history rhymes.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This episode is in response to a Listener's feedback from episode #152. They shared their struggle to take their negative thoughts captive as they've been stuck in a dark place for two decades. In today's episode I take a new approach on things, I'm calling in a walkabout. You know how it feels good to just go for a walk to sort out our thoughts? So there will be no five step plan on how to get out of a dark place. Just thoughts as I meander on my walkabout with this topic. I hope you like it.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Do you find yourself seeking approval, affirmation or validation from others everyday? Is that how you define your self worth? Simply seeing yourself as others see you, or based on what they think or say about you? Well it's time to admit your approval addiction and seek to change. Approval and affirmation should not be your seratonin rush to regulate your emotions. Look inside to find happiness, purpose and meaning, then find the strength to pursue it.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Peter McWilliams said "For many, negative thinking is a habit which, over time, becomes an addiction." So how do we learn to take our thoughts captive? How do we get out of the addiction to thoughts which crippled, paralyzed, derailed or disabled us for so many years? In this episode we outline a plan which was published by Richard L. Ganz in crosswalk.com entitled "6 Ways to Take Thoughts Captive." It's time for you to gain control over what you think about yourself and your life! It's time to change your reality by changing your mind!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Are you feeling weary or dissatisfied with where you're at in life? Does boredom end up fueling your isolation, being a loner, turning to drugs, alcohol or porn for some ecstacy in life? Do you find it difficult to control your anger because you are always frustrated with situations, circumstances or relationships in your life? Well if any of this describes you or someone you know, this episode is for you!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
It only takes one to know that you are loved. Too many guys in recovery stay focused on the love they lost. They feel that the only way to be whole again is to restore that broken relationship. As a result they don't see the love that is right next to them in their new friend, coach, mentor. These are people who know the real you and always have your back.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's group episode looks at three more signs they would place at the entrance of a recovery house to plant seeds in new inductees into the program. The quotes are about: 1) it's not easy but it's worth it, 2) recovery must come first and 3) why would anyone want to return to the hell of addiction? I'm sure all of my listeners will be encouraged by the words of my friend on recovery from Australia, South Africa and the United States.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
In this group session, our guys in recovery chose one of three quotes that they would put up as signs on the wall if they opened a new sober living house. Here's what the quotes are about: 1) it's okay to go slow, 2) learn to love yourself and 3) recovery opened the gates of hell and let me out. I hope you enjoy their ideas.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Do you remember when Mom would kiss your boo boo and make the pain go away? Why did that work? How did you handle pain when you were too old to get your boo boos kissed? How did you feel when Mom no longer provided the comfort you needed? Could this be a seed that fueled your search to self medicate to numb your pain? Maybe you learned that no one cared anymore so you just began to repress your poison and emotions. If this is you, now is the time to tell someone how you feel!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
When you drive a car are you focused on the rest view mirror or do you look in front of you through the windshield? Obviously we all look in front and only glance back! So why do we tend to keep looking in the rear view mirror of our life? Why do we focus on our past mistakes to the point that we limit our ability to move forward? This episode reminds us to start a lifestyle of letting go just as the trees let go of their leaves every year. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Pink Cloud Syndrome is the sense of euphoria that many recovering addicts experience early in recovery. It typically includes a feeling of overconfidence and is referred to as the "honeymoon phase." In today's episode we look at the characteristics of the Pink Cloud Syndrome and how they can negatively affect our walk if we begin seeing the world through rose colored glasses and all of the clouds look pink!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
What obstacles do you have in your life or recovery? How are they keeping you from reaching your goals? How can you learn to view these obstacles like hurdles to jump over or puzzles to solve? In this episode we look at those questions and see that obstacles are normal in life. Even if they seem unfair, we have choices on how we handle them. Remember, break through your obstacles before they break you!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
They say the things we escape start pursuing us and this pursuit can become relentless! So we need to begin to push back so our pursuer gives up. In today's episode our group of guys in recovery discuss the thing that pursued them the most and how they pushed it away.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Today's episode is a group session with our guys in recovery. The question they respond to is "Think about the following quote and tell me what you would say to someone caught in this cycle." Here's the anonymous quote "When you can stop, you don't want to. And when you want to stop, you can't. That's addiction."--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
Were you raised by a Critical Parent? Today's episode looks at signs of the wounds of childhood criticism that we carry into our adult life. We look at how these wounds have affected our self image, our relationships and our socialization. I utilize the 16 signs as outlined by Dr. Seth J. Gillihan from this article on Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/think-act-be/202212/16-signs-you-were-raised-highly-critical-parent#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16706755119482&csi=0&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&share=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.psychologytoday.com%2Fus%2Fblog%2Fthink-act-be%2F202212%2F16-signs-you-were-raised-highly-critical-parent--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
In this group session episode of guys in recovery share their thoughts on being tempted by the idea of something to take the edge off their feelings of guilt. The truth is we can either get bitter or better! Do you have a support community to turn to when you feel guilty? Do you have repressed guilt because you've never found the person to talk to who made you feel safe enough to share? If this is you, please reach out and contact me.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
This is another group session and one member of our group brought the topic for discussion. Charlie suggests that social media can be a place that fuels the emotions that cause people to hurt and want to numb. Listen as the guys in our group discuss whether or not social media can lead to relapse and if it is the new drug, the new mind altering experience!--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci/support
In this episode we look at what it means to be a peacemaker. Then we discuss how to be a peacemaker with ourselves. With our past, with our present and with our future. What fears are you still holding onto that keep you from being a peacemaker? Also nite the new Q&A option on Spotify to send your feedback.
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This episode is another group session. Our guys in recovery give their responses to the statement "Addiction is the only prison where the locks are on the inside!" They focus on finding the keys to open the door to recovery, healing, faith and hope. Can you see as they did that the longer you keep secrets hidden inside, the longer you stay in isolation, you are basically trapping yourself in a self made darkness ? I believe you will be inspired to find the keys to hope and submission so you can release yourself from your inner prison and begin walking free.
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Today's episode is a group session where it guys in recovery respond to the statement "You never recover until you know what you're recovering from!" The guys share their ideas around admitting you have a problem, seeking help, the triggers of the ghosts from our past, having the right tools for a sustainable recovery and finding the deeper root causes of your addiction.
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That's the question! Did you dance today? Using quotes from Friedrich Nietzsche we view four reasons why we should be dancing in recovery, in our situation or circumstances. Whether or not people think we are crazy or insane for dancing, it's important to dance everyday. As Nietzsche said "We should consider everyday lost in which we have not dance at least once!"
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If I chose a subtitle for this episode it would be Stayin' Alive. Today we look at recognizing the death and destruction of addiction and choosing life. Then we build a plan for removing those things from our past which would impede our new life and to work closely with a coach, mentor, sponsor to see clearly those things we need as a foundation as we rebuild and seek to restore our original plan and purpose in our life.
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Today's episode is about rage. You know when we look like a snapping turtle out of water ready to attack anyone who comes near us or gets in our way. Using the LIFEMORTS mnemonic by R. Douglas Fields, an American senior researcher at the National Institutes of Health, we look at the nine triggers to rage which may have people always telling us "you need to take an anger management course bro!" Listen and see how your stressors in life may be the hair trigger of your snapping turtle!
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This episode is another group meeting with our guys in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia. Today's topic is about how we have changed in recovery. We are not the same man we were in addiction. The guys look at three quotes about change. One deals with people thinking it's easy to be in recovery. The second talks about finding strength in the depth of a winter season in life. And the third talks about going back to the old places that are still the same to see how much you have changed. Listen, enjoy and share with your friends.
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This episode is about making amends to our spouse, partner, grown children and possibly our parents. You may want to listen to episode #41 which deals with making amends to a variety of people that we have harmed in our addiction. Here we are dealing with accepting the reality that in some cases "That Ship Has Sailed" and we are never going to fully reconcile with certain loved ones. In this tough reality we discuss turning our focus on our own transformation, character development and new life.
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In this episode we look at the link between the character development stage of recovery and the development of our identity. Too often addicts stay stuck in a lifeless form of recovery because they feel their addiction and behavior in addiction defines their identity. We look at questions like: who are you? Who do you want to be? What are the doubts stuck in your head? How do rewrite your story? And we review the four statuses of Identity Development as outlined by American psychologist James Marcia.
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In this episode or group of guys in recovery share there reactions to the lyrics of the Jim Croce song "One Less Set of Footsteps." Specifically, the line "But tomorrow's a dream away and today had turned to dust" is our focus for discussion. How can we reach the point where we're ready to dip down into that pile of dust and paint the shining star of our future in the sky?
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In this group episode our six guys in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia share their hearts about the things from their past that they have or still need to overcome. We all have that same stuff that keeps popping up unexpectedly. They show up out of nowhere or they can haunt us like ghosts or broken records. The key is we need to focus on processing them and finding life. Using the lyrics of the song Operator by Jim Croce we see that we can't get stuck in the trap of trying to convince others that we've overcome the blow when we know inside that it isn't real.
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This episode looks at our decision making process. Salad Days refers to the times of our youth when we were carefree and innocent. We dug into how make decisions now that bring negative consequences and how we can make good decisions going forward.
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Today's episode is another group meeting where our guys in recovery answer these three questions: 1) When the music stops that's when they pain begins? 2) When the music stops and your game is gone who will remember you? 3) What happens to the party when the music stops? They share great insight as to how they have handled recovery as the music of their addiction and addictive lifestyle stopped.
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In today's group session our guys in recovery from South Africa, Australia and the US respond to these two quotes: 1) The beauty was once I lied to myself and believed the lie, I could lie to anyone with whatever unique emotion they needed to believe me and to do whatever I wanted. 2) My lies were the perfect escape! They allowed me to escape punishment, escape consequences, escape shame, escape guilt, escape remorse. I know you'll be moved to hear their words and as they share about the days when the truth was revealed.
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Do you find yourself holding on to fear and pain? Are you stuck feeling like a victim of injustice? What do you do to find pleasure when you can't find joy in your daily life? Have you turned to isolation as your only way to feel safe in self preservation? Well the answer lies in friendship!! Join us on this journey with Thomas Aquinas to leave fear, pain and loneliness in your rear view mirror.
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This episode is an interview with Danny Cosby. He talks about his work in prisons and in church as he shares about addiction and recovery. And for Danny it's all about heart!! If you want more of Danny just search on Danny Cosby Ministries and Danny Cosby Music.
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In this episode we look at the difficulty of having a loved one, spouse or partner as our accountability partner. The addict in recovery feels like they're constantly walking on eggshells at home. What is safe to say? How do they talk about cravings? Where do they turn when their spouse makes them feel like they're always messing up? Listen as we outline what's needed in an accountability partner and how it is toxic to expect our loved one to be that person.
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Today's episode is another group session. How do you respond to this anonymous quote? "Sometimes you have to make a decision that will break your heart, but will give peace to your soul."
Listen as our six guys in recovery talk about having to break relationship with friends, family members and their old self in order to safeguard their recovery and bring peace to their soul.
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Today's episode is in response to feedback from episode #119 on futility. We look at ways that we have been self sabotaging any thoughts of changing or succeeding. Things like self harm, self undermining, self doubt and self dislike. We then outline five changes we can make to break this cycle of self sabotage including self awareness and self transparency. Goldie Hawn said "The only thing that will make you happy is being happy with who you are, and not who people think you are."
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Do you find you're living a life with little or no purpose? Maybe you feel that whatever you try always results in little or no success. You could be caught up in futility. Feeling like all you are ever doing is dusting and, as soon as you dust things off, your life is instantly dust again? It's never too late to be who you want to be! Be encouraged by this message to find the strength to start over.
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How can you focus on simplicity? What does that look like? What things that you are now focusing on tend to overwhelm you and steal your peace? Do you find yourself wanting to solve the complex or complicated things and ignoring the simple things that are right in front of you? It's time to begin the simple steps of simplicity in recovery.
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Can we forgive but still hold on to resentments? How do we learn to let go of resentment? How has resentment for other people affected your conversations and relationships with friends and family? Do you believe releasing resentment helps you find peace, helps you to lead a relaxed life and smile again? These questions and more in this group discussion episode.
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What does planting a seed mean to you? For this episode we look at the seeds we plant every day in our mind, in our words and in others. Do you plant good seeds? Positive seeds? What do you do with negative seeds? An old Chinese proverb remind us "all the flowers of all the tomorrows are in the seeds of today." Give a listen as we focus on how to plant the seeds for the gardens of our tomorrows.
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Today's episode is another group session and it is focused on our relationship with our fathers. The guys from the US, South Africa and Australia share their insight into these two statements: 1) "Dad, I hope to become even half the man you were." and 2) "I feel like half a person, still doing immature things. When will I ever grow up?"
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Do you have a safe Haven? Where do you run for shelter? What does a shelter provide for you? What characteristics do you want in a person who can be your safe haven? We discuss these things and look at insight from Dr. Leslie Becker-Phelps from her big on WebMD.
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Do you find that whenever you try to prove your point it ends up in an argument? Maybe it's difficult with that one person in your family or circle of friends who always shares their opinion and you know their wrong. Maybe it's just a stranger who started up a conversation with you. In the end when we point out that they are wrong, we lose our peace! Listen to our group in today's episode as they share ways they have learned to protect their inner peace by choosing to "Let Them Be Wrong!"
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Are you struggling with temptation? Do you find yourself battling slips and relapse again and again? Then it's time to focus on transformation. In times of transition it is not about change of behavior, but it's about inner reorientation and self redefinition. In this episode we outline four phases of this transition.
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My regular listeners know that I close every episode with the phrase "stay safe and stay strong." I've had numerous listeners ask me what I actually mean by that and how can they do that. So today's episode will give you a brief plan which you can put into action. It's my hope that you all stay safe and stay strong.
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In today's episode we hear a poem entitled My Childhood from my From Ashes to Destiny curriculum and three poems written by people I worked with in their addiction. Two of the poems deal with drug and alcohol addiction and two deal with porn and sexual addiction. All four poems have a common thread, where were or parents when we needed them in our childhood? Where do we turn when there is no one to help us process childhood hurts and wounds? Too often we have no one and find comfort in drugs, alcohol and pornography when we have no one to guide us. If this is you please contact me by messaging me on the link in this episode.
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Today's episode is another group session. Our guys in recovery share their thoughts in response to several quotes about loving yourself. As you listen, think about how you can grow in understanding that you are loved, you are worthy and you have a purpose in helping others. Are you ready to begin the journey of loving yourself and others unconditionally? How do you silence the voices of self doubt and self criticism that hinders your trust of self and others?
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In this episode we look at the emotional fault lines in our heart they may have come through trauma, betrayal, abuse, addiction, etc. We tend to deny our emotions thinking we're okay. But those emotions may be tremors warning us off a new earthquake coming along those old fault lines. Listen and hear how to survive that earthquake and what to do when the shaking stops.
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In this episode I outline five categories of reasons why or friend or family member won't go to rehab or get treatment. They know that we desperately want them to go, we want them to change, we want them to come right. But, they are not at the point of even contemplating stopping using their drug of choice. (You may want to episode #40 entitled Waiting For Change to hear the five stages of change.) I urge listeners of this episode to become better listeners to the addict in their life when you find they won't go to rehab.
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Today's episode is in response to a listener who asked "What does living a life of recovery look like?" To answer this question I've turned to the 10 Guiding Principles of Recovery as defined by SAMHSA. I respond to each of the ten principles as an addict in recovery would.
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Do you remember something from your youth that you could say "I was old enough to remember all of it, and young enough to understand none of it?" Do those memories come to life whenever you close your eyes? Listen to this episode as our group of guys in recovery share their memories of rejection, adoption, physical, verbal and sexual abuse from their childhood. Be encouraged as they talk about finding healing from those memories that lived so long behind their eyes.
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Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, loneliness or a similar feeling that troubles you all day? Does it keep you awake at night? Do you feel stuck in that feeling? Maybe it's time to learn the benefit of healthy distractions which will allow you to drift away from those troubling thoughts.
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Do you often feel unloved or disrespected? Do you feel unheard? Perhaps, you feel the addict or person in recovery in your life is still gaslighting you. Maybe your the one in recovery and your lived ones frequently stonewalls you whenever a station for deep discussion arises. In this episode we look at the importance of learning self respect and the keys to learning and sitting respect to others. Be ready to take notes when I list six aspects of respect in healthy relationships.
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Many of you have messaged me asking for a group episode on this topic, so here it is! The topic that our guys in recovery from the US, Australia and South Africa discuss is: "By staying isolated, the person in recovery may think they're reinforcing their sobriety. But in reality, long-term recovery means learning to manage triggers, and not to completely avoid them." I love the new bumper sticker from Gary in this episode "Don't Isolate - Illuminate!"
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This episode is for two key audiences. The first is for those of us who find it difficult to accept the things we've done because we feel that they were unacceptable for us to do. The second group is those who feel that they are victims or the wounded parties as a result of the behavior of someone they love. We'll look at what it takes to find a way to begin to accept the unacceptable things that have happened. This is called radical acceptance. And this acceptance paves the way to true freedom, lasting happiness and peace.
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In response to comments and questions from listeners to episode #99 on negative emotions, here's a look at shame. What caused the feelings of shame? Is there something from my childhood that resulted in me being haunted by shame as an adult? What is toxic shame? How do I find freedom from shame? How can I begin to leave the past in the past so I can begin to hope in my future? These questions and more for you to process in today's episode.
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Many of the listeners have expressed how they struggle in the battle to keep negative emotions from leading to relapse. In this group session our guys in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia tackle this issue of negative emotions. The key questions for discussion are: What are the feelings that you do not like to have? and How do you deal with these emotions when they surface?
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I'm today's episode Clint shares his he recently began to realize that he had an addiction, like being a workaholic. We use the lyrics of the Willie Nelson song "Heartaches of a Fool" to introduce this topic. Clint openly shares his journey in processing the pain of the loss of his family and his focus on putting family ahead of career. Could you be like Clint was, hiding what he didn't yet know he was hiding?
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In today's group session episode our guys in recovery discuss the tug of war of emotions in addiction when we feel lonely, but want to isolate. They react to the words from the Bob Dylan song which say "Sign on the Window Says Lonely, Sign on the door said 'No Company Allowed.'" How do you get to the point of understanding this contradiction of emotions and establish healthy connections and relationships in recovery?
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Why do people become homeless? Why do some people choose to sleep on the streets or the pavement when there are beds available in the shelter? Growing up did it feel like you were "at home" or just a guest at your father's house? How do you define home now that you've been homeless? These questions and more in today's episode with Glenn from Tower of Life men's shelter in Krugersdorp, South Africa.
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Today we look at the journey of self care in recovery. We'll utilize Maslow's hierarchy of needs to see how we have neglected them in our active addiction. Then we'll outline a plan to restore then in recovery in our Journey Of Yourself. As you listen to this episode think about these two questions: "what are you focusing on in your journey of self care?" And "what Joy will you find in the midst of the journey to keep you moving forward to your destination?"
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This episode is another group session with our guys in recovery from Australia, South Africa and the US. Using a quote from an interview that actor Ben Affleck did we look at these two questions: "How is your life beautiful?" and "What Second Chances are you Most Thankful For?" I'm sure you'll be encouraged by the answers from our six guys as they reflect on their life and second chances. As you listen to this episode think about how you can choose to see the beauty in your life and in your second chances.
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Scott shares his personal journey as well as the coaching approaches that he uses to walk with clients to uncover and heal from deep pain that they have inside. To contact Scott you can reach him by : email scott@granitebearcoaching.com on WhatsApp +44 7508 44 66 86. on Instagram @granitebear_coaching. FB www.facebook.com/scottjwhite224 Be sure to request his PDF on rebuilding trust and finding forgiveness on his website www.granitebearcoaching.com/resources and type in Trust PDF
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In this episode we look at what we do in the tough times of addiction. What motivates us to get into recovery? Are we motivated be desperation as we desperately desire to get our family, our job, our friends our life back? Well, we see what it means when people say "desperate men do desperate things." What is the difference between desperation and inspiration? The key is that desperation comes from a place of hopelessness whereas inspiration comes from a breath of fresh air that fill us with hope and positive creativity. This episode will encourage you to look inside at your motivational forces and your values that are giving you the tenacity in your recovery.
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This episode is another group session as our 6 guys in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia respond to these questions: We've heard the advice that "Education is the door to opportunity!" What was your door to the opportunity to find healing from addiction and lasting recovery? They openly share their journey to find the door of opportunity for recovery and healing. You will be encouraged by their words as they relate how doors to education, faith, career and peace have continued to open up for them as they started and stay focused on their recovery. If you would like to join a group or get one on one counseling to assist you on your journey please contact us through the link in this episode description.
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We've all heard about negative baggage that everyone carries around and how it hinders their progress and relationships. Today our group of 7 guys in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia give their advice as to what would be "good baggage" to take along if you are beginning in a recovery program. Just like in episode #76 the guys give us great quotes for bumper stickers, post-it notes or daily reminders as we walk in recovery. Put on your hiking shoes and join us as we begin to climb the mountain together!
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In today's group meeting episode, our guys share how they felt like a puppet when they were ruled by, controlled by their puppeteer. It may have been drugs, alcohol, pornography, cravings, whatever it was, the puppeteer pulled the strings. Have you begun to feel this way? Do you see that you are not in control of your actions and decisions when the puppeteer simply wiggles his hand and pulls your strings? Do you find yourself doing anything that the puppeteer wants you to? Hopefully the words of our group members will give you the courage to reach out for help to cut the strings!
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In today's episode we look at how the label of being a "lost cause" is huge in addiction. Firstly, family members and friends of addicts who have been wounded by the behavior of addicts consider them as a lost cause. Addicts themselves feel like a lost cause, unworthy of forgiveness, unable to change, unable to even trust themselves. Often addicts feel that many in the treatment community expect them to fail. So how do we bring hope into the hopelessness and despair of being a lost cause in addiction? This episode will challenge your thinking whether you are an addict, an affected family member or friend, or if you have been wondering how to help anyone caught in the snare of addiction.
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This quote by Jason Statham from the movie "Wrath of Man" is the topic for this episode. It a group discussion and our guys in recovery from the US, Australia and South Africa openly share how boredom has been their enemy in recovery. We're reminded of the quote that "an idle mind is the devil's workshop" and how to stay productively busy, especially early in recovery. From the words of our group participants, boredom is sneaky, dangerous, aggravates triggers, and can result in feeling unwanted or unloved.
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Today's episode is a glimpse into homelessness from the words of eleven men in the Tower of Life homeless shelter in Krugersdorp, Gauteng, South Africa. You may be surprised to learn how and why they choose to be invisible from family, from friends and from society. I just finished spending 18 days and nights living in Tower of Life with over 70 men in their season of homelessness. I know you'll be blessed as they share their views on the topic of being invisible.
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Did you here up thinking you needed to be a better friend so others would like you? Are you still finding yourself a people pleaser in order to be accepted by others? Listen to it group as they discuss these questions and share how they learned that what they needed was to be better at choosing friends, not getting exhausted trying to please them!
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What's are the old habits that you have that would be bad habits to carry into your new season of recovery? Our group of guys from South Africa, Australia and the US tackle this question in today's episode. They look deeply at lifestyle changes that need to be made. So this is not simply to stop drinking, porn or drugging! And it's a deeper view than people, places and things.
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Once you lose your foundation what are you standing on? Who or what died in your life that was your foundation which resulted in you falling? Listen to today's episode as a group of guys in recovery discuss these questions and how they fuel their addiction as well as the foundation that they have found in recovery which keeps them growing and progressing in life.
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I'm this episode we look at our present circumstances that seem unbearable and our inability to change them. Using five quotes from Austrian philosopher Viktor Frankl we outline a five step action plan to change our circumstances by changing ourself.
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A lot of people spend more time at work than at home. How has your work or workplace been an asset or a liability on your recovery? How have you dealt with the need to share or hide your past addiction at your workplace? Listen as our small group of guys in recovery from Australia, South Africa and the United States discuss these questions from their experiences in workplace settings.
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Listen to our group members as they answer these questions as they relate to the title of this episode: How does that relate to your story? How does that help you to drop old resentment in order to forgive those who wounded you and to forgive yourself?
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Can you remember a day, an event, a situation or circumstance when you really wanted to quit your recovery or quit life and just go back to your drug of choice? Listen to today's episode as our group of seven guys share where they found and continue to find the strength to endure.
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I know you'll be touched felt as you listen to the guys in our group answer today's question: "What did you miss out on in your childhood that might have caused a fear of missing out, a FOMO, that fueled addiction choices?" Please message me if you'd like to share or get connected to a group so you can share and find your healing from FOMO.
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How would you answer these questions? Why do we chase so hard after those things or people that are the hardest to get? Why are we so nonchalant about recovery? Why don't we chase recovery like we chased our next high? In today's episode our group of guys in recovery share their answers. I'm sure it will stir your thoughts.
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This is another group session and our guys share their idea for motivational quotes that they would put on their car as a bumper sticker. Listen for quotes like "If you woke up without a goal... Go back to sleep!" After listening please message me with any bumper stickers you would make. Thanks
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We have all heard "No Pain, No Gain," but in this episode out group of 7 guys in recovery express how they gain strength by sharing openly and knowing they are not alone in their journey. Contact me on this podcast, on my website, or DM me on Instagram @davidfroma2d if you would like to link up with a group.
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This episode is another group session as our seven guys in recovery from the US, South Africa and Australia answer these two questions: "What do you wish you had known when you were a teenager?" and "If you could give advice to your 16 year old self, what would it be?" Their answers are full of wisdom and insight that we can all benefit from. Listen and share it with your friends.
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Does the dirt from your past still haunt you? Do you friends and family always run your dirt in your face? Do you sometimes feel like the comic strip character Pig-Pen with a cloud of dirt following you everywhere? Listen to this episode to see how to begin to forgive yourself and become someone who can say "My dirt is under my shoes.'
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Are you happy today? Do you enjoy life? Out do you find you keep chasing after happiness? No matter how hard you chase it, does happiness always elude you? Today we look at ten steps to happiness that all of us can apply to our life. Are you ready to make your mind up to be happy with where you are in your journey of recovery and still be courageous enough to dream big dreams?
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Do you feel like people can see you, but only see the addict, not the real you? Maybe you have always felt that people refused to see you or that your thoughts and feelings were always invalidated. Perhaps you feel painfully visible but entirely ignored. This episode looks at these feelings and more as we discuss the journey to being visible again in our recovery.
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How has fear of people's reaction to your truth kept you from opening up? Have you ever withheld the truth from your family for fear that you would scar them again if they knew the truth? What do you think about these statements.. sometimes there is too much truth in the world and not enough understanding... If I told you the truth, you would have tried to do something about it! Listen to this episode to hear the feedback from our group of guys in recovery from around the world. I'm sure everyone will benefit by their insight.
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Thoughts are not the same as urges. And cravings are not the same as uncontrollable desires. How do we learn to gain control over our thoughts and cravings before they lead to relapse? Listen to the group of eight guys in recovery from around the world as they share their idea on today's topic.
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What is the carrot and stick method of motivation? Does this method actually work in addiction treatment? Is it the best way to establish long term recovery? Does the carrot and stick motivate change our deception? What characteristics should I look for in treatment programs, sponsors or accountability partners?
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Are you addicted to anger? Does it bring you the same rush that risk takers feel? Do you use your anger to control others? Is it your tool of manipulation? If this sounds ask too familiar it's time to find freedom from your anger addiction.
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Stacy Dodd shares his journey from experimentation, to addiction, to prison, and intimately to the founder of a community center www.hopecenter1usa.com and author of Backpack to the Burbs https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736336800/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_imm_364JZ5KPB6PH0P6XJGKM to an executive with Celebrate Recovery and www.vertavahealth.com. You can contact him through any of those links or on his website www.Stacydodd.com
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In this episode we use the classical model of PTSD with a new twist to look at Post Treatment Stress Disorder and Post Time Stress Disorder. Discover how to deal with the stressors you are facing after completing rehab or outpatient treatment OR after serving your time in prison.
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Today's episode is another group session and we discuss these points: There are two core fears. 1) losing what you have and 2) not getting what you want. How do we deal with these fears? How can we grow to fall in love with where we are in the moment?
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Self doubt sucks. Where do we go with all the doubt, lack of trust and second guessing as we try to stay strong in recovery. Listen to our group of eight as they each share their journey to trust themselves and trust their higher power to lead them to the right choices.
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Our group of eight guys in recovery discuss how opening up at small group and listening to others open up keeps then strong. If you would like to start or join an online small group contact me and we'll plug you in.
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What boundaries would you set up for an addict who wants to live in your house? How would they be different in a half way house? Would you for tough love or unconditional love? What freedoms would the addict have? What about money? These topics and more from our group of eight guys in recovery.
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More than 115 Americans for every day from an opioid overdose. Eighty percent of opioid addicts started with advise if a prescription painkiller. These statistics have brought America and the world to an awareness of the opioid crisis. But what do addicts really think about their personal crisis in the midst of opioid addiction? How can they give a way out when they hit rock bottom? Adam shares his perspective as someone who became addicted to opioids as a teenager and he looks back on his years of addiction.
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Today we compare Dante, one of our group of eight, and his journey in pornography addiction to the allegorical poem Dante's Inferno. We discuss: how addiction is a contradiction to God's will for you, how it feels to be stuck in the black forest and how you get out, the importance of vulnerability in seeking help, and much more. Tune in for this interview, you won't regret it!!
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In the third group meeting I ask the guys: many of my listeners and people who want to help addicts have never been an addict and would never use drugs, get drunk or download pornography. So they struggle to understand why you do. What would you say to them to help them understand and empathize with people caught in the snare of addiction?
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This is our second group session with right men in recovery from around the world. Today they each answer this two part question: Can you remember that moment when you passed from experimental or casual use to full on addiction? What were your thoughts or emotions that led you into addiction rather than asking for help while it was still early?
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What are your thoughts about about methadone and medication assisted treatment (MAT)? Is it simply trading one drug for another? Is it a crutch? Is it a sign of weakness or poor moral choices? Can you empathize with the clients who say it is their first step to getting their life back?
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In today's episode I share the thoughts of eight friends in recovery from the U.S., England, Australia and South Africa. I asked each of them two questions: What motivated you to stop? and What keeps you motivated in your recovery? Enjoy as their answers are shared in a group session format!
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What do you need to do to be a Peer Coach? What's the difference between a coach and a peer coach? How does the clinical community diagnose addicts? What criteria do they use? How can I learn to understand the feelings and emotions of addicts?
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In this one year anniversary episode we look at why we do what we do. Why addiction? Why prisoners, the homeless and other marginalized people? How can you be equipped, empowered and encouraged to begin to reach out to the addicts in your community? What is the From Ashes to Destiny curriculum all about?
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What are Inhibitions? How do they help us control our impulsivity? How did our impulsivity fuel addiction? How do we restore our inhibitions so impulsivity doesn't lead to relapse?
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Where do you stand on this question? What are the pros and cons about decriminalization of drugs? What are the historical models about drugs that have shaped policies, laws and treatment? Listen, share and please send your feedback.
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An interview with Clive Human, founder of STOP, Standing Together to Oppose Pornography. Clive shares his wisdom and insight about the causes of addiction to pornography, the effects it has on the addict and their loved ones, steps to break free from this addiction and how to find hope to begin the journey to freedom. If you want to contact Clive in Cape Town go to his website www.stop.org.za
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I'm this episode we look at the pain of victims of emotional, physical or sexual abuse. How do victims copper with this pain? What is a victim mindset or mentality? How can a victim mentality prolong our pain? How do I know if I'm stuck in victim mentality? How do I begin the steps of healing? These questions and more! Give it a listen!
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Many addicts spend their life chasing that first high! In recovery they chase happiness as they still need instant gratification. Most people chase something: happiness, money, forgiveness, love, a second chance, a fresh start. What are you chasing? Are you ready to slow down and enjoy the journey? Be still, listen to the music, and dance.
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What is the Imposter Syndrome? How does it relate to addiction and recovery? Am I the only one who struggles with it? How do I stop feeling like this? I'm tired of going through life feeling like a fraud!
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Do you feel like you're treading water? Are you stuck in emotions, behaviors or circumstances that could pull you under the water? Today's episode explores these questions and charts a path to get out of the water, to ask for help and to build happiness into our everyday life. Remember as Richard Wagner wrote "joy is in you, not in things."
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Today we look at the addiction to cutting. Why did people do this? How did they deal with the pain of cutting themselves? How can we begin to reach out to help them? What is the cycle of a cutting addiction? Remember if you're going to hold a conversation with someone you fear is cutting themselves go back to episode 1 of these podcasts on how to hold that discussion.
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Are you working through the 12 Steps? Here's hello for Steps 8&9. Perhaps you have people you have struggled to apologize to. What are the components of a good apology? What if they are not ready to forgive? What if I want reconciliation, but they don't?
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Surrender is a tough thing to do. How do I Surrender? How do I turn my life and will over to a higher power? What are the things you would be hesitant to surrender? When you enter a shelter or a rehab how does it feel to surrender your freedom and trust in their authority?
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What do you need to escape in your life? What are addicts escaping with their drug of choice? What's the difference between healthy and unhealthy escapes? How do I develop healthy escapes as part of my lifestyle?
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You can't save someone who's not willing to participate in their own rescue! There's no hell like watching drugs turn someone you love into someone you don't even know! What was the hardest thing you ever had to do during your son's addiction? How do you take care of yourself during the chaos of addiction? This and more in today's episode.
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In this episode we look at the Stages of Change as developed by Prochaska and DiClemente. How many times have you thought about changing but were not ready to take the step? How often have you arranged for a loved one to go to rehab only to find out they were not ready to commit? Are you waiting for the world or the system to change before you do? What small steps could you take to overcome your fear of change? Is it really worth the risk? These questions and more in today's episode.
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I'm this episode we look at the life of heavyweight boxer Gerry Cooney. How can an abusive or alcoholic father make us a fighter? How can we survive our childhood with an abusive parent? What are our survival skills? How can the training regimen of a boxer be our model for recovery from addiction?
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What is authenticity? Listen as Noah talks about the importance of authenticity in our families and how lack of it can fuel addiction. To learn more about Noah's work check out his website www.integernetwork.com and listen to his podcasts entitled What If?
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What are the links between homelessness and addiction? Is addiction the cause of the result of homelessness, or both? What do you see when you see a homeless person? How can you help homeless people access the services and addiction treatment they need?
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In this episode we look at how triggers can birth cravings which can result in relapse. Different types of triggers are identified. How to start a trigger journal is introduced. Another powerful tool, surf the urge, is presented and the acronym WALK shows the way to process our cravings.
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How do we transition from living one day at a time to bring an overcomer? What things can we do to begin long game thinking even while we need to do all the short game things early in our recovery? Let's look at people, places and things from both perspectives.
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When you have the temptation to relapse, when people mock you, when they try to drag you down, when stress builds and your cravings are constant... That's the time to stand your ground and not back down.
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Whether you are an addict, in recovery or the family out loved ones of an addict this episode is for you! Listen to the hurricane inside the head of an addict. Reflect on the hurricane-like devastation the addict in your family brought to your house and community. But everyone, hold on, your rainbow will come.
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What is stinking thinking? How can it fuel relapse and make recovery harder? How can I learn and utilize mindfulness to change from negativity to positive thoughts?
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What are the symptoms of withdrawal? How do I recognize them? How can I help a friend in withdrawal? What's the difference between acute and post acute withdrawal? How long should withdrawal last? How do I know if I should go to the hospital?
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Drug muled, arrested, pregnant and facing life in prison in Bangkok, Thailand, Vanessa shares her journey of physical, emotional and spiritual prisons. Find healing and hope as you listen to her story.
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Jarryd Smith, the founder of Second Chance Trust in Cape Town, South Africa, discusses peer pressure, temptation to try drugs, the need to fit in, the need for acceptance, and other issues facing youth in high school. It's all about teaching kids to make healthy decisions.
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What are the four pillars of recovery? Learn these plus the seven key aspects of character development to ensure that your recovery is built on a firm foundation.
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Is all fear bad? What is the link between fear of failure and addiction? Have you ever been paralyzed by fear? How can we overcome our fear? What ways does the fear of failure disguise itself?
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What are the benefits of living one day at a time in recovery? How do we actually do it? How do I know if I'm simply going through the motions? It's time to seize the day!
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In this episode we look at the heart of sex addicts and especially convicted rapists. How can we tell if they changed? What do we look for? What about the pain and trauma is their victims? Isn't better to just lock up the rapists and throw away the key? How do we ever know if they are safe to return to our communities? These questions and more on today's episode.
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How can the magic happen for you in your search for sobriety? What if the journey of recovery is really about learning to walk on a highway named happiness? How has my lost innocence from childhood affected my ability to get clean and sober? What are the steps to regaining innocence and beginning to believe in myself again?
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What does aftercare mean? How do I learn to walk the walk, not just talk the talk of recovery? What do I look for in a sponsor to walk the journey with me? How can I show then I am sincere in my desire to stay clean and sober? These questions and more in today's episode.
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Ricardo discusses the challenges of reconciliation with family, earning trust that was lost and how we can welcome others into our community. Do you really believe everyone deserves a second chance?
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How can you reach out to inmates in prison? The importance of faith in finding freedom from the obsession to use drugs. Is there hope for a five time convicted felon? These topics and more as Noble openly shares his journey and encouragement for others in prison or in the community.
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Pastor Larry Arnold of Eagle's Nest Community Church in Atlanta, Georgia shares about his work with homeless alcoholics. Why are they afraid to go to rehab? What is the connection between homelessness and alcoholism? How does the alcohol industry seem to target poor, inner city communities? These questions and so much more.
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Jonathan Clayton, the founder and director of Hope Prison Ministry in South Africa, shares about how he talks with new prisoners. As an ex-inmate he understands their feelings and openly discusses how he has learned his inner hurts that led to his criminal behavior.
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In this episode we look at the vicious whirlpool of loneliness that pulls us deeper in our addiction. Have you ever been caught in a whirlpool like this? You realize quickly you are not strong enough to swim out of it. Only love can reach into that whirlpool and pull us out to life.
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Are you caught in hopelessness? Where do you find hope? How do you discover hope? Who will walk with you on this journey? This questions and more in this episode as you begin on you path From Ashes to Destiny.
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Today we look at the faces addicts wear to hide our feelings, our need to be fully known and fully loved, and the challenge of friends and family of addicts to walk in ridiculous grace. To learn more about A2D check out our website at www.froma2d.org
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Here's an inside look at the opioid epidemic from Laurence, a young man from Cape Town who got hooked at the age of 14. You'll want to share this episode with friends, family and community leaders!
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All of us in recovery are doing things everyday everywhere that would have been impossible in our addiction! Click on the link below to go the Anchor app, scroll down, click the message button and leave me a voice message of the things you do that used to be impossible. http://anchor.fm/a2d--from-addict-to-disci
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Deon discusses the pressure that having money to spend after to his addiction and the importance of his faith and his family in recovery. This interview is dedicated to the late Rod Shiers, pastor, friend, brother who lived to love the unloved.
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How do we handle the memories of our time in addiction? Which memories do we remember and which do we choose to forget? Listen as Deon talks about his early years in addiction in Durban.
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A powerful, candid interview with Bobby in Canada as he shares about his struggle with addiction. We look at the four seasons as a day in the life of an addict. An inspiration for this episode came from the painting by Freiman Stoltzfus entitled Cathedral of Seasons. Check out more of his art on Instagram @freimanstoltzfusgallery and his website www.freimanstoltzfus.com
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In this episode we look at the term "Gaslighting" and how it can be applied to addiction. Understanding this activity of manipulation, control and deception helps us realize the depth of the wound we caused in others. With this knowledge we are better prepared to make amends in a way that brings healing and restoration.
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Steve shares about key things he has learned in street outreach in St. Catharine's, Ontario, Canada. As the founder of Roots, he has established the core values of relationship, love and openness in the work with people caught in addiction.
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What do you see when you look in the mirror? Do you see the old you? Can you see the progress you have made in recovery? Listen for ways to stay focused on your reflection of growth in the journey.
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Danny discussed why people relapse, the hard work of recovery, the counterfeit comforter and the enemy of sobriety. He closes with the first song he wrote on bunk 51 in prison. For more about Danny go to www.dannycosbyministries.com
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Danny outlines five nuggets of wisdom to live by in recovery. Enjoy this interview as Danny talks about his addiction, incarceration and his heart wound which led to addiction. He also shared the stigmas he faced upon release from prison.
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In this episode we look at the lifestyle of addiction, the joy of the dance and the pain of the consequences. Then we delve into the many opportunities we have to establish a new dance, the dance of recovery.
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In this episode we look at why From A2D works more than 2/3 of our time with addicts in prison. Also we compare the life, emotions and stressors in addiction with those inside of prison. Look for the similarities between the prison in our mind and life inside a Correctional Facility.
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Today we look at some of the emotional wounds that we have as addicts that lead us to self medicate and keep us as fragile as a candle in the wind.
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Today we look at a variety of things that can get us caught up in addiction and/or mess up our recovery.
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Do you have a friend or family member who is struggling with addiction? Have you wondered how to talk to them about your concerns? David Hain is the Founder of From Addict to Disciple (A2D), which works in communities, rehabs and prisons in the United States, South Africa and Kenya. In this episode he gives insight on how to have a conversation with your loved one about the addiction that ensnares them.
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