Voices In Recovery Podcast: Recent Episodes
David Lewry
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
This week Darcy and I sat down and discussed the past, the present, and how hopeful we are for the possible future of Freedom’s Path Recovery Society. We began in order to meet the needs of humans, who find themselves in distress from a number of human conditions and potentially have fallen through gaps in services. We as a group of humans wanting to help other humans continues to be our main focus and purpose. In order to find our center, we have made some new choices.
This week's guest, Chuck D. Stops by and shares his experience, strength and hope with us. His journey has been one of many ups and downs; from trouble in school to being sent away to boarding school. Moving from boarding school back to public school, his behaviour and using life continued to progress in a steady, downward spiral, causing many changes in locations where the results remained the same, an unmanageable life. Not only is this guy a successful actor, but he's a full blown rocker, I'll leave the rest up to him! Thank you Chuck, we appreciate you.
This week's guest, Peter, stopped by and shared his experience, strength and hope with us. It never ceases to amaze me just how incredible human beings are. You endured, survived and now thrive - thank Creator you are here living such a gifted life and sharing ways of living with others. We appreciate you sir.
Our guest this week, Alyjah stopped by to share their story with us. Alyjah's father was a part of the 60's Scoop and addiction, overdose, & recovery were all a part of their life. They have been in recovery for 9 years and trust me, you're really going to want to listen to this episode. I am not going to say any more about it because hearing it in Alyjah's words will blow your mind! Thank you for your courage, strength and hope.
This week's guests are Lucas, North, and in the background April. They're film students from SAIT and they came on to pitch their episodic series about addiction. They're looking for support in all manner of ways and of course financial. They seem like really good humans and they have my support. Being able to talk about addiction in a true story format without that sometimes preachy feel, I found the story, "Bus Stop" honest and thoughtful from the perspective of a friend. Thank you folks, we appreciate you.
This week's guest, Ladine stops by to share her experience, strength and hope with us. She has survived her own trauma, intergenerational trauma, and the depths that addiction took her. Her family has known colonial trauma for generations; Ladine's mother was taken during the sixties scoop and her grandparents are residential school survivors. She is a warrior, there is no doubt about it. We are grateful for you Ladine, for your light that fills this world.
This week, Michelle Robinson stops by and we talk politics, truth and reconciliation, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and 2 Spirit. We talk briefly about our individual roles walking along side the Calgary Police Service, as they undergo, what we hope is lasting, deep change. I am reminded as to the importance of creating safe places for people. How some humans have been abused so deeply by the system and others, it is absolutely necessary to be seen and heard. Not just when our voices are quiet and inoffensive. Hearing and seeing racialized and marginalized humans - understanding the expression of anger, as a valve for a never ending pressure cooker. Thank you Michelle, I appreciate you so much.
This week's guest is a friend, Joshua. He shares his journey out of a place of fear, confusion, and judgment into a place of light and healing. Josh's story includes battles with substances, self doubt, and self loathing. He has worked diligently through the last few years in utilizing different treatment options to overcome some of the blockages in his path. In order to become and share his authentic self with the world around him. It is not always easy living there in the open. His family has difficulty accepting his husband and that he will be a part of reality. Today Josh tries to live authentically and is grateful for where he is today. Thank you Josh!
This week's guest is our friend, Jeannine. She shares her experience, strength and hope with us and it is our honour to share it with you. When Jeannine was young, her parents divorced and she experienced a verbally abusive home life. She developed disordered eating systems as a you human, which required incredible energy and obsessive focus. Laying fertile ground for further addictive behaviours as she grew up. I'll let her tell you the rest! Thank you Jeannine.
This week I sit down and share my coming out story with Darcy. Well, and now all of you. I have never gone into what it means for me to be queer, however this year when the day came around to share our coming out stories - it felt like it was time to put it together. Sitting down with my friend Darcy and his young human Sam, I felt safe as I had their permission to open up. They also encouraged and reassured me quite often. I am grateful for them. It means a lot that we have a platform to share; letting you get to know me, as we get to learn from so many. Thank you for being such a huge part of my life and recovery journey.
This week, my friend Mitch comes back on for an in person chat with Darcy and I. His story is an amazing journey from the darkness in addiction into the beautiful light he basks in today. Living a life he never dreamt of... Mitch, you're an inspiration and being around you is a gift for everyone! I appreciate you and your family my friend; keep up the great work you're doing in your life and all around Alberta sir! Thank you for your experience, strength and hope!
This week our guest, Odessa stops by and shares her journey of recovery. Her childhood found her growing up in a family riddled with potential alcoholism. It took some very tough years of active addiction to bring her into the twelve step fellowships. She finds that doing the work has changed her way of thinking in so many ways. Thank you Odessa, you're doing it!
This week we are sharing a special short episode on Jayme Minor. He shares his story of addiction and being sober for 3 years. He wants to share his music and energy as his way of remaining sober.
We wanted to let anyone interested know about Jayme Minor's upcoming show, OktSOBERfest! Tickets are 30.00 and details can be found here https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/octsoberfest-tickets-421088195127
This event is not affiliated with Freedom's Path Recovery Society.
Check out his instagram here https://www.instagram.com/jayme_minz/?hl=en
Our guest this week, Cade, shares his story of addiction and recovery. Cade survived an abusive childhood to find himself deep into addiction. So deep that he lost his home and family. A couple of years ago he entered treatment and has been sober since. He now works in a treatment centre, helping others get and remain sober.
This week's guest is David M. He stops by to share his story including 42 years of sobriety. Not only has his life done a 180 since sobering up four decades ago, he's done several 180's finding healing in places he never imagined he would or could. Today David works with many humans in sobriety and has created a program for dads in recovery. It was fun getting to know a fellow we had never really spoken with. Thank you Dave, good luck and God speed sir.
This week my friend, Chris stops by to share his story with us. Fear was a regular part of Chris's life growing up. From a difficult home life, Chris endured bigotry at the hands of the church for being gay. As life in active addiction progressed, Chris found himself falling deeper and deeper into the darkness. Chris was raped and when he reported the offense he was demonized by the police. This intense trauma coupled by being retraumatized at the hands of law enforcement added fuel to Chris's spiral down. Chris became homeless, showed violent tenancies in connection with his intravenous drug use, and found himself in the sex trade.
Chris has now been sober for 9 months and focuses on giving back in many different ways! He spends a lot of time helping 2SLGBTQ humans adjust to a life in recovery and is a part of opening Calgary's first 2SLGBTQ treatment center in Calgary. We are extremely grateful you are out there Chris, thank you for your courage strength and hope my friend.
This week Priya stops by and shares her pathway into recovery. She talks about the journey with her family through addiction and into recovery. We learn how she came to be the Chief Administrative Officer of Simon House Recovery Centre. She is a part of some incredible existing programs and those that are on the horizon for the centre. Thank you Priya, we appreciate you!
This week, I get riled up by my besties and we celebrate not only our 200th podcast, but we start our 5th season of Voices in Recovery as well! Thank you to all of our guests and every listener who's tuned in for our very human stories through these last four years. We appreciate you! A huge thank you to Darcy for his continued work and support as we navigate the waters of podcasting. Another thank you to Dom and Jon for always agreeing to come on and poke this bear in the interest of a good time. This episode is no different than any other of course, as we talk about things, which can be incredibly triggering for humans. Having said that, we really hope you enjoy the three of them poking me with sticks, as though I'd already passed on. There's little doubt in my mind that laughter is really good medicine for what ails us.
This week's guest, Samantha Ann stopped by and wow; she shared a story of compassion, love, strength, and acceptance of the human wherever they are at. Sadly, she lost her soul mate to drug poisoning over a year ago and her life was forever changed. Today, she is driven and her mission has become one of love, advocacy, and tolerance. Thank you Samantha Ann; your courage, intelligence, and compassion are changing the world.
This week, Mike stopped by to share his journey from trauma into recovery. Mike's story, like many others we hear, is one of tragedy. The kind of evolving tragedy, which led him to many bottoms. Where he imagined his bottom to be, kept changing and bringing him lower and lower into the darkness of his life. Mike's perseverance throughout his life has been his saving grace from a higher power. It has kept him trying to recover at every turn. His journey is his and watching him fight for his life encourages me deeply. Thank you Mike!
Our guest this week, Riaz stopped by and shares his story. He spoke of being
adopted from India and how grateful he is to have been brought to Canada. He spent a good deal of time working in the restaurant industry where he noted that his drinking and using became more of a lifestyle of necessity. At one time he went to university for culinary arts and ended up dropping out due to his addiction. His faith has been transformed through his recovery although he experienced some relapses. Riaz inevitably left the food industry to work on and support his recovery in a more direct manner. He moved into the helping profession and is now a peer support worker for one of the wonderful treatment centers in Calgary. Thank you Riaz!
This week Vince stops by and shares his difficult journey into recovery. He talks about how important the music industry is for him and his journey of sobriety. To say he survived some difficult times throughout his life, is an understatement. Thank you Vince! Please check out Vince's music and pages at the following places:
on Instagram @the_vinz1 and in Facebook @Vinz Wolvie
On Spotify: No Lie https://open.spotify.com/album/2RXmmlz320lerT6TTNFiw5
This week our guest, Gina stops by and shares her incredible journey in recovery so far. Her story begins in childhood where she experienced abuse and a gamut of "isms" from the time she was very young. Where she brings us throughout the episode? To a deeper understanding of how untreated codependency can destroy lives. The depths of her own codependency led to her losing her right arm in a terrible work place accident. She works hard on her recovery and of course, according to her, she is far from perfect. She believes continued work on one's life brings the freedom she always sought. Thank you Gina, we appreciate you.
Wow! I am so grateful to have been able to sit down with this week's guest, Dee. We definitely go back a fair ways in our recovery journeys and it was a pleasure to sit a chat. She has been through so many things, but it's best I leave that to her! It was a lot of fun seeing you Dee! Thank you for sharing your experience, strength and hope with all of us. We appreciate you and your courage to be vulnerable.
This week's guest, Robbie stops by and shares his story. From early coping with grief and loss, which taught him to turtle inside himself - to a world where he values his life and those helpful, loving humans who surround him now. Thank you Robbie for your experience, strength and hope!
This week Darcy and I sit down and talk about several things fluttering around our minds. Sitting and talking about what is happening on our planet can be heavy considering how dire it is for so many humans at this very moment. It's a mad world out there so we need to do better in our own little universes to spread whatever goodness we can. In service.
This week's guest is artist, Jeff Burns. He shares his winding journey into, out of, and thankfully back into recovery. Like most of us his path was anything but linear. Recovery has put him in a position that he now lives the life of an artist. He's happy if you want to look him up for any reason and he definitely wants to be of use to others struggling where he he's been.
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
For information or support please contact us through www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
This week's guest shares about living with a diagnosis of Schizophrenia and the stigma that is attached to it. We are taken through adolescence into her young adult years where psychosis became the normal reality. How practicing her addiction/self-medicating turned into destructive use, which potentially changed her brain chemistry etc. We are extremely grateful and honored that she shared all she did. Her courage in the face of stigma and judgment motivates us to be more diligent in our breaking the silence. She talks about the strategies she employs to cope, function, and thrive in her life today. Thank you for sharing yourself with us.To learn more or to find resources for schizophrenia head to: https://schizophrenia.ca
Darcy and I sit down for a zoom chat about meditation, the importance of mindful breathing, focusing on yourself, and combining, even short meditations into your current daily practices of recovery, exercise, family, work, and everything else you might do in a day.
This week's guest, Sarah drops by and shares her experience, strength and hope with us. She was raised with recovery on her periphery, as family members were living the life free of substances and in some cases, free of the chaos, which often accompanies substance use. Her life today, in spite of challenges, is one of wellness, recovery, and attempting to be of use through her incredible skills as a physical therapist. If you have chronic pain or simply want to improve your physical, mental and emotional health. Her ability to find treatments to meet the needs of her diverse clientele makes her a unique component to any recovery program. Thank you Sarah, we appreciate you!
This week Tim and Andrew of "Moving the Mark" addiction services stop by and share their courage, strength and hope with us. Their group specializes in interventions and placing people into treatment as quickly and efficiently as possible. Their services are available across Canada. Tim and Andrew's special relationship with the recovery communities in Calgary and the Okanagan make the transitions into treatment appear seamless. Considering the drug epidemic crossing North America and the planet; we need more of these special creatures until no one has to suffer alone or in silence. Thank you for being out there gentlemen, helping sick humans get well. We appreciate you guys!
This week Alisha stops by and shares her experience, strength and hope with us. Her journey takes us through difficult childhood experiences into adulthood. In adolescence, she moved a lot, changing schools frequently and discovered anything that took her away from the pain of home. As she continued to fall deeper and deeper, an accident and an addiction to opiates amongst other drugs; brought her swiftly to her knees.
From the ashes of an old life, she remains sober and clean, works with women regularly and encourages other women to get and live a sober life if they choose. She faces any challenges, which arise as her journey continues to unfold. Although some relationships with family had been extremely strained, Alisha works diligently to rebuild what can be and face what needs to be.
Thank you so much Alisha!
This week Rae Ann joins us via Zoom from Washington State. From an abusive childhood, she moved to drinking early in her life to cope with the pain, abuse and confusion that she went through. The downward spiral took her through DUI's, abusing prescription drugs, physical, and mental injuries until finally overdosing and nearly remaining dead. Today she puts more and more energy into her recovery and less energy into the old, toxic habits of her active addiction life. Thank you so much for pushing through Vulnerability and sharing your incredible experience, strength and hope with us all. We appreciate you Rae Ann.
Our guest this week, Lana, is a wonderful human and an incredible actor, writer, and playwright. She shares about family and her life and recovery; as a recovering Christian and an adult child of an alcoholic. Her spirit is electric, wild, contagious, inspiring, and considering her young life; who she is today, is a damn miracle! Thank you Lana; your courage, strength and hope helps many every day. We appreciate you being you.
This week's guest is Clayton and he comes to us via Zoom from somewhere in Alaska! His story takes him all over North America; from California to Alaska, Alberta and back to California again. He survived some incredible things and we are very grateful for that! Thank you for sharing your experience, strength and hope with us Clayton. Keep spreading the message!
This week's guest is Mike D. not to be confused with the other Mike D. from the Beastie Boys. His story is one of survival from one road to another leading up to him getting sober and clean. From the darkness he continues to climb one step at a time putting his energies into staying sober and helping others. He has discovered the beautiful gift of service to others and the freedom it brings as he surrenders deeper and deeper into service. Thank Mike, we appreciate you!
This week our amazing guest, Bethany stops in, sharing her experience strength and hope with us. Bethany approaches recovery from multiple perspectives; she utilizes a twelve step fellowship, yoga, and energy healing techniques to both enhance her recovery and those, whom wish to practice with her. She spoke about coming out of the darkness and insanity of addiction into a life, where she is present, compassionate and of daily service to those around her. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, Bethany.
If you're interested in checking out Bethany Veale Wellness, check her out every Sunday 8PM MST 9pm in person or on Zoom. Come, connect, relax, transform & let
Go with me. Reiki, Nidra Meditation, and
Yoga. Cost is $20 or a donation of what you can afford. Contact: Bethany Veale Wellness
BETH_1985@LIVE.COM
This week, our guest, Scooter drops in from the middle of nowhere USA via Zoom. Her story is tragic, there is no doubt, but she perseveres everyday. Since cleaning up she continues to practice a life of service as best she can from wherever she's at. Her recovery journey has been tumultuous at times where more is revealed everyday. We apologize for any sound issues, the internet from the middle of nowhere USA was a bit splotchy and we had our first live audience from all over the USA listening and supporting Scooter from start to finish. Thank you Scooter, you're an incredible human being and an absolute miracle.
This week our friend, Heather L. stops by to share her story of discovery, recovery and healing. She is a strong indigenous woman, a single mother of 4 children, she's studying addiction, and recently created and began facilitating her own recovery program, "Planting Seeds of Change". It is an honour for us to sit with her. I don't know how single parents do it, unless they're super heroes! Thank you Heather, keep up the good fight! Check out Thrive and support indigenous! It's where she got her kick ass shirt 🤘
https://www.facebook.com/thriveunltd/
Explicit content and language warning
If you are under the age of 18 please consult with your parent or guardian prior to listening or viewing
This week our guest, John Hugger stops by and shares his incredible journey. He talks with us via Zoom from Washington state. I cannot do his story justice, as I cannot imagine surviving what he went through. The depths of his pain equalls the depths he travelled to forget such horrific memories. I caution everyone this week due to the extreme nature of the content and some of our language. His story must be told regardless of how hard it might be to listen to. We must pay attention to our fellow humans in order to better help break cycles of family violence, sexual abuse, pedophilia, rap culture, etc. Thank you John, I look forward to one day getting that hug from you man. Unbelievable!
Explicit content and language warning
If you are under the age of 18 please consult with your parent or guardian prior to listening or viewing
This week Darcy and I talk about bringing compassion to public services, focussing energies on rehabilitation VS. Prison, and the impact government funding could have on the lives of people struggling before prison is necessary. We also talk about a complete restructuring of our justice system to accommodate the shift in focus. We are encouraged by the movement towards decriminalization even as we recognize this transition carries potential, possibly inherent challenges.
This week our guest is a long time friend from my California life, Rob. He comes to us via Zoom from Indianapolis! He shares his story of addiction and the winding road he undertook to enter sobriety. He reminded me of many things from when we were young and some of them are not fond memories at all. It is a reminder that no matter where I might find myself today, I have no right to judge anyone and that I must be diligent in changing despite myself sometimes. There are always more miles to go. Thank you for sharing yourself with us and for giving me another chance, Rob.
This week's guest is Jerad. His story involves developing complex PTSD early due to an incredibly stressful environment. He talks about the ten years spent in active addiction and the damage, which looks like PTSD today, which he now lives with and is learning to treat. He shares how reconnecting with his culture more and more every day helps him find purpose and direction in his daily life. If he didn't tell us all about it, I might never have guessed the amount of pain in his heart, mind and spirit and how he expressed that to the world around him. Jerad reminds me of so much, but mostly to keep judgment and assumption to myself.
He has made terrible choices and for those, he will answer. My hope is that we strive to understand more and more why humans do some of the terrible things we do. Instead of forever pointing our swords at punitive punishments.
Thank you so much for your courage, strength and hope Jerad.
Check out his...
instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/jaycreesaboriginalcrafts/
Etsy page: https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/Indigenousmadegoods
This week's guest is Cheryl. It was over a year ago when she lost her son Jacob due to a drug overdose. Jacob was a kind, compassionate, and caring man, who found himself fighting an incredible fight for the last few years of his life.
Within Jacob's story is a young man, whom was bullied in school, confused by mental health difficulties, and tortured by a deep pain. Cheryl talked about compassion being such a vital necessity and the lack of it within the medical community at times when dealing with mental illness/addiction.
Cheryl watched, as the system repeatedly let her son down until his death. Where Cheryl began her outspoken mission to end stigma and mistreatment by speaking with all of the wonderful staff, who had helped Jacob in his final days.
She is hoping to help and encourage creating compassionate environments for healing our fellows with unseen wounds. Those with wounds running much deeper than our eyes can see.
Thank you Cheryl.
Darcy and I sit down to say goodbye to 2021. A huge thank you to our listeners, viewers, and supporters of all kinds. We are excited to begin another year of incredible stories. To our guests we can't thank you enough for having the courage to be on the show and share yourselves with everyone. You are the reason that we love doing this show so much.
Our guest this week is a friend of ours, Vicki! She shares her incredible life story from a total lack of security and safety as a child she weathered the storms of racism, bullying, and violence against some incredible odds. She now finds herself, due to hard work and constant effort, sober and building a life of serenity through service and step work. Thank you so much Vicki, you're story is amazing just as you are!
This week, one of our favourite humans, Vanisha Breault drops by. She talks about her brand new book, "Ordinary Courage", The Terminator Foundation's second annual recovery summit in February 2022, and the excitement over the work on the second book! Vanisha talks about her family and the struggle for recovery her sons are experiencing. Our thoughts go out to her children, as we know the road is difficult and dark at times. She is a blessing in the world, full of compassion, understanding, and acceptance. Thank you Vanisha.
This week's guest is Mary. She tells us her incredible story of sobriety and we follow her twists and turns, as she makes her way through life. Gratefully she is able to articulate the effects of intergenerational trauma and racism in present day Canada. She talks about how much racism is faced by people of color and immigrants specifically coming to Canada. We learn about the racism and bigotry, which effected her parents when they first arrived here amny years ago. She talks about how the impact plays out in her life today. Thank you Mary, we appreciate you!
Mitch stopped by and shared his incredible journey from near death, prison, sobriety, and his wonderful family that he credits to recovery. He spends a great deal of time sharing his experience, strength and hope to help others. I cannot believe his courage! Thank you Mitch!
This week we share Shea's story and what a journey he has been on. He started his pathway of sobriety over a year ago and he's continued to keep himself open to growth and whatever may be next in his evolution. As we discuss, more and more will be revealed. From one survivor to another, thank you my friend. We appreciate your vulnerability and courage in the face of it.
This week Darcy and I talk about the "justice system" as it pertains to sexual assault and rape. This was a difficult chat for he and I, it stands to reason it may be triggering for others. Please, if you find yourself struggling or in need of help, reach out. You are welcome to email us at
david@davidlewry.com or direct message on Instagram or our Facebook page Freedom's Path Recovery Society.
We talk about some of my own experiences with working through stressful situations, tools I use that help my recovery and healing. We dig into what it means to get out of your own way to allow healing and growth.
Based on our guests that have been on the show we have noticed that many of them talk about spirituality and religion in some way. This made us want to discuss this in a bit more depth so today we did just that.
Our guest this week is Autumn and Wow, she is an incredible human. She's a mother, archaeologist, artist, world traveller, and seeker of justice for women... amongst other things. She is reclaiming her culture through every action she takes and is teaching her 15 month old son her Ojibway language and others! This practice helps her learns every day as well. Check out her story this week, you won't be disappointed! Also, check out her art on Instagram @ojicreations and on her website
www.autumn.ca
Thank you so much Autumn, we appreciate you.
Darcy and I begin a new chapter for Voices in Recovery. We are bringing in video podcasts where we talk recovery topics amongst other things. We will occasionally have guests coming on and will keep bringing you stories from amazing people. Today we talk about relapse, negative stereotypes, what it means to relapse, and so much more. Thank you for listening and take good care.
Recently, I had another chance to sit down with my friend and activist, First Light. He talks about the found bodies of children at the residential schools across Canada, accountability, reconciliation, love, pain, family, friends, healing, and much more. He brings a clear, honest perspective to so many subjects and I just try to keep up with him. He is one of my favorite humans out there and his constant pressure continues to give me hope for all young people.
Darcy joins me to talk about change, how it makes us feel, our anxieties, and what we are learning from the recent big changes in our lives.
This week, our friend and a repeat guest, Anita brought her beautiful therapy dog, Bob in for this visit. We had a great chat about some positive potential growth within the ranks of the RCMP in her area if not one day overall. I am pulling for her and for the members to be given the space and ability to care for their individual and group mental health. Healthy and supported officers lead to positive enforcement standards, which could lead to more positive commitments to the communities they serve. She shared about Bob, who after being with Anita for a while became a therapy dog. We love Anita and Bob. Bob is the best boi.
This week our brand new friend, Dakshima, drops by and shares her journey. She comes from Sri Lanka where it is against the law to be yourself if you happen to be a lesbian and she proudly is. In Sri Lanka, the consequences of being found out as a lesbian can be ten years in prison. Not only could she not be herself, she was raised believing that who she was, was wrong and a crime. Her life was an incredible challenge for many reasons when she first arrived in Canada. One of these was being a lawyer when she arrived. Once in Canada, she had to work multiple jobs while she went back to university. Recognizing that she would basically have to start at the beginning if she was to practice law, Dakshima went into social work. She runs a program for new immigrants to Canada, who are also experiencing difficulty with identity. After sitting with her, there is no doubt that if you are struggling with identity and the multiple challenges facing immigrants coming to Canada, she is someone who can help. Thank you for your bravery and for being you!
Taylor stops by for her second visit on the show and we have another wonderfully complex conversation about her journey so far. There is no question she is a presence; full of spirit, strength, kindness, toughness, and the list goes on. It is always such a pleasure to to talk with and listen to. I feel better off for knowing her and knowing she is out there digging into life. We talk sobriety and how different that can look for different people. We talk a lot about codependency and many of the ways it can interfere with and destroy any relationship. I know that I have many difficulties with codependency at times and it really does help me talking about these things openly.
Our guest this week is Shayne. His story begins in an alcoholic, abusive household where he found himself experimenting with both alcohol and cannabis at an extremely early age. His addiction took him in and out of prison until he came to Calgary for a fresh start. For a few months it seemed as though the geographical change was working. He found himself in and out of treatment centers living the street life in Calgary, drinking and using whatever drug he could and he was unable to stay clean and sober. When he found himself ready to do the work it takes to get and stay sober, he did exactly that. In sobriety today, he chooses to clean house, trust God, and help others and it seems to be working big time in his life today. Thank you Shayne, we appreciate you!
This week we sit down with mister Chris B. I cannot say enough kind things about him although his kindness stands out. Not because he's perfect because he is not, but because he's genuine, compassionate and searching. He works hard to keep learning and share all that he's gained in life and his 9 year journey in recovery. He was a fire fighter until PTSD intervened, which was when drinking became the real problem it was meant to be. I'm grateful to call him a friend and someone I look up to. Today, he works hard building the life he dreamt of and one that goes beyond what he could imagine! If you are one of those humans, who wonders whether or not they can? After listening to Chris, I believe a little bit more in possibilities. Thank you Chris, we appreciate you my friend.
Our friend, Chelsea stopped by to share her recovery journey. Early on in her life she experienced the loss of her father. She survived multiple life altering challenges to find herself fighting for her life in recovery, as an adult, from alcohol and drug use. As her illness progressed, she found herself not only fighting for her life, but for the lives of her children as well. Her continued desire to live a clean and sober life has her trying to help others any way she can and staying connected to the resources that she has surrounded herself with. Thank you so much for your openness Chelsea and good luck with the new town and job!
We were fortunate to have Dusty and Katherine Miller on for a second time discussing PTSD and the ongoing journey of recovery. They talk about accumulated stress on the family when PTSD goes unidentified and untreated. They share about how different and beautiful life looks when acceptance and treatment become a part of day to day life. There is little doubt that a family healing together can thrive together! Thank you Dusty and Katherine, we appreciate your service and your openness.
Our guest this week is a long time friend, Lucas. He shares his winding and honest journey into and throughout recovery. He talks about the depth of his commitment to recovering from the hopeless state of mind and body where he comes from. He shares how even though he has struggled throughout the years, he has continued to reconnect to the desire of living his best possible life. Lucas has fought through debilitating illness to strive and thrive in life today. Suffice to say that he has a strength and discipline I would love to mirror... I won't ruin it for you, I'll let him tell you in his own words! Thank you Lucas!!!
Long time friend Kenny stops by and shares his challenging journey into and through recovery. We appreciate his honesty and openness with us and all of you! He continues to work with newcomers and those struggling, as a part of his and their recoveries. Kenny works diligently on his daily path including the other aspects of his life like his son and family. He is a restaurant owner and chef, who recently went through huge changes with his work due to the last twelve months. He doesn't shy away from any challenges and is facing the newness with eyes and mind wide open. Sometimes these episodes really hit me hard and hit home. This one was no different, as he and I share parts of our journey that are often challenging to talk about. We appreciate you Kenny!
This week we have a returning guest and one of my good friends Adam Trotsky. He talks about recovery and trying to live better each day and what that looks like for him. We talk about our experiences incorporating many sources of practice into our lives and recoveries. He talks about his budding new business and about his upcoming wedding to an amazing human. I won't ruin it for you, we hope enjoy. Thank you Mr. Trotsky you're one of the good ones buddy.
This week's guest is James Bellamy. He shares his incredible story including surviving conversion therapy, Christianity, and a world that constantly projects negativity to anyone outside of the "norms" of society. Not only has he survived, but today he thrives! He is heavily involved in educating and changing systems of bigotry and exclusion. For what you have done and for your work everyday, we thank you James! It was an honor sitting with you; your vulnerability, courage and intelligence inspire us.
Our friend Charli stopped by and shared her incredible journey before and into recovery. She survived multiple instances of abuse, neglect, as well as; suicidal ideations, attempts and an attempted kidnapping by one of Robert Pickton's associates. She survived a horrible car crash, which left her with Chronic difficulties. Her recovery is full speed ahead working on herself and working with other women trying to be sober and clean! She is also a part of mentorship programs for women in trades and loves working to empower others. Today her life is content and happy, as she lives a life of service to others. Thank you Charli, keep up the incredible work!
This week Sandra stops by and shares her incredible, ongoing journey in recovery. We hear the depths of pain and injury that being bullied can cause us humans over the course of days, months and a lifetime. Listening to her story, it became evident that in nearly every stage of her life, being bullied has been her reality. As heart breaking as parts of her story really are; her heart, courage, and perseverance is a testament to the strength and resiliency of her spirit and faith. I am grateful to know her and incredibly inspired by her to be a better human to all I encounter.
Lauren stops by and shares her journey into art therapy and serving people as a pastor. She works tirelessly to help build the kind of church and practice that is inclusive and understanding for all people. Her many ideas work towards healing a fractured faith community; creating and cultivating a positive experience through her art therapy and pastoral care. On top of all of that, she works on her mental health daily with a deep understanding of how challenging stability can be - especially when other factors interfere, such as pandemics.
Thank you Lauren!
Sitting down with our guests and hearing their incredible stories continues to be inspiring and incredibly enlightening. The hours spent with humans continues teaching Darcy and I in complex ways. To be better humans; better brothers, friends, partners, sons, father, and uncles. To do better work in our community, become kinder and more compassionate in all of our affairs. Each person is inspiring and motivational in their own way and there is no doubt they have an impact on others as well. Sometimes the real mirror for me happens when Darcy and I sit down together and reflect on our time hearing stories and living life. These conversations often allow me a deeper acceptance of how my defects act themselves out in my life today. This is a not so gentle, but necessary, reminder that no matter how good I feel, the work never ends. I must remain diligent in the process of my growth and life.
This week we sit down with Deb and hear her amazing journey through life and recovery. Her life was anything but linear, as she wove her way through abuse, codependency, constant instability, and regular truama at the hands of family members and others. She nearly lost her son permanently due to mental health concerns and serious depression. However, she worked diligently on her health, challenges and recovery while going through divorce. Her hard work and commitment allowed her to regain custody of her son, who she cares for to this day. Thank you Deb!
This week we have our friend Cassandra sharing her story. She talks about coming from an alcoholic family of origin in which she survived multiple abuses in and out of the home. The violence she encountered led her into a mindset of hating men for long periods of her life. Today she works diligently on her family, recovery, health, and being of use to other people on the road of recovery. She attends different fellowships to continue her work of self discovery, growth and to stay connected to solutions. I am grateful to be connected to her and I never stop learning when she speaks. Thank you Cassandra!
This week's guest is Jeremy and to be honest he reminds me of how important it is be there for others. He's a bit of an earth angel working in harm reduction. I will give everyone a trigger warning as we talk openly about drug use in medicinal and recreational conditions.
Under no circumstances are we suggesting people should take drugs. We are in no position to tell people what they should be doing.
We are asking that if you decide to use drugs please be as safe as possible. Have open discussions about the dangers, benefits and pitfalls. We also hope that you try and understand what you're taking into your system so that you can make an educated decision.
We value each person's right to self determination, as it is an essential part of being human.
This week's guest is Brooklyn, a local artist and helper, who works with Diamond Willow Youth Lodge. She has been sober for 4 years and works daily on her sobriety and making the right choices for herself and those she cares for. She has lost many people during her life and is grateful she can face her life and grief with clear, sober eyes. We didn't know a lot about each other, as this was the first time we met in person, but I have no doubt she'll be helping others and creating some amazing art along the way. Thank you Brooklyn.
We are grateful to have a friend and colleague, Shannon, on the show to tell us about her life in recovery. Shannon has found her way from an abusive and painful childhood, past, and feeling lost and scared all the time. She is now focused not just on staying sober and helping others, but learning to enjoy life through things like yoga, continuing her education, and embracing changes and what life has to offer. Shanon now uses her lived experience and education to give back and help other humans in finding their path to recovery. Thank you Shannon for all that you do and for being open and unfiltered during our conversation. We appreciate you.
This week, a marvelous human being and friend, Wayne drops by to share his story. We start by talking about an amazing human and another friend of ours and many others, Brady Winters. I welcome any opportunity to talk about our departed friend. Wayne takes us through his childhood in an alcoholic household where it was chaos and more chaos. One of the coolest things about this guy is his compassion for others. He is an amazing human all around and we are grateful for your vulnerability dude.
This week Nicole stops by and shares her amazing journey with us. From living the street life she takes us through committing crimes, jail, attempts at staying clean, into finding the catalyst for change. Today she is committed to helping other addicts and alcoholics in both her personal and professional life. She is one of those helpers this world really needs!
I want to say a special thanks Nicole. After talking with you on the podcast we became aware that you came to visit us after what sounded like an incredibly difficult day at work. Thank you for all that you are doing in the community and everywhere you go. We appreciate you.
This week long time friend of our family, James Woods joins us with his working dog Rebel! They work together finding bed bugs in homes, offices, apartment complexes, condos, hotels, shelters, treatment centers, health care facilities, or anywhere bed bugs can be found! They are also really good at creeping Darcy out. We all enjoyed some doggo time last year before we got locked down again. James is an accomplice to an "accidental" bird death when he was a young dude and some of our family cannot forget this traumatic event. We explore this and many other things. Thank you James! Love yah dude
Check out his website at https://www.assuredk9.com
We are very grateful to have Kerry join us to talk about his journey. Kerry is a second generation Residential School survivor and a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, with which he turned to addiction in order to numb the pain. After witnessing his Mother struggle through her own issues of abuse from the Residential School upbringing and numerous suicide attempts. Kerry found himself in jail where he eventually made the decision to change. Now Kerry finds happiness in helping others with their addictions, and is involved in the Canadian Centre for Male Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse.
Kerry is also an author with his book Second Chances: The Kerry Gladue Story available HERE
We are so grateful to have a longtime friend and a part of our family, Teresa drop by this week. She opens up about her family, health, addiction, and recovery. Starting at a very young age her addiction took a strangle hold over her life. Once she had a life and death scare with the added motivation of being a better mom to her children did Teresa start walking the road of recovery. Today her life includes building and maintaining strong relationships in her personal and professional life. She works on her recovery, health and happiness while enjoying as much time with her children dn grandchildren as she can. We are grateful for you Teresa, you have changed the very world we live in.
We are grateful to be joined by Arthur. He spends his work days and off days looking for ways to not only improve himself but his approach to life, love, work, etc. After sitting with him, I know I leave with energy and a desire to do better each day. He talks about his life before moving to Canada from Belarus. We talk about the contrasted difference of policing and life in Canada to that of Belarus. If there is going to be great change within these archaic structures of policing, there is no doubt it will be because of people like Arthur. Thank you sir!
We are joined by my dad, Wayne, to talk about grief through our personal experiences with grief.
We are joined by Megan and have an amazing conversation about her youth in Venezuela, how she really came to understand trauma, her journey to learn about Canada's genocide of Indigenous people, racism and so much more. A huge thanks to Megan for joining us and showing the courage to be open and honest during some difficult conversations.
We are so grateful to be joined by Mike. An unfortunate and difficult split from his siblings when they were placed into foster care cause all manner of insecurity. Mike takes us through his foster home experiences and jail time into a life of recovery where he tries to live "stark raving sober" as he says it.
A huge thanks to Mike for being open, honest, and willing to share his story. Thank you my friend.
We have an incredible conversation with Kyla. She shares openly about not only living in addiction, but what helped her get into recovery. Dealing with addiction, mental health, grief, loss, and ego is a part of a never ending search to connect with people. These are some highlights from our conversation together. A huge thank you to Kyla for coming on the show and being so open with all of us.
This week a wonderful friend of mine, Val, drops by and shares her incredible journey of recovery. Far from perfect, she strives to continuously grow, love and recover. She has and continues to work on herself and regularly with others. Her desire and effort for authenticity makes her a beautiful example for those around her and anyone lucky enough to spend time with her. Thank you my friend, for all you do and all you are.
Joining us today is one of the strongest people I have met, Karen. Her story takes us through a 30 year opiate addiction due to the overwhelming amount of surgeries she has had and continues to need. She finds a way to live life sober with new surgeries and incredible chronic pain. She is an amazing human and I am grateful to know her and call her a friend.
This week, my mom visits with us and shares her journey. She talks about life on a Saskatchewan farm with her family and how a smooth talking, young preacher came to town and changed her life unexpectedly. It is an honor for me to present my mom's story to everyone. She talked about things I had no idea about and I am grateful for every opportunity to listen to either of my folks share their life. Their mission to help others has never wavered even through their individual struggles. They are a benchmark of humanness to me, as their starting point is love. Thank you for everything you do mom. I love you.
This week's special episode is Kyla and Meagan's incredible music and soul. They share songs and we chat about holding on to love, as the world continues plummeting deeper into fear. We talk about music keeping us sane, opening emotions, and allowing us to express our fear and pain. This was a special evening for all of us. Thank you Meagan and Kyla!
Gord joins us, sharing his journey from addiction into recovery, highlighting the importance of doing the work to help our evolution as humans. Gord talks about what helps him in recovery, what his life is like now, and how he will forever be on a journey of self discovery and improvement.
We are so lucky! We were given time at Pawsitive Match Rescue Foundation to explore their programs and organization. We had a great conversation about the charity; how they help the animals, volunteering, as well as the important role that animals play in our lives. We also talk about the impact the animals have for people in recovery. These folks know their business and if you are curious about adopting, fostering, volunteering, or any of the ways to help...they can guide you towards the best possible way of doing that!
To contact Pawsitive Match to adopt an animal, foster an animal, volunteer, or donate to them head to their website www.pawsitivematch.org
We are honoured to have Don join us this week. Don is a Veteran of the Canadian Military, after leaving the military he decided to head back to school and get some education to help him do what he wanted, which was to help other veterans.
Don now works for Homes for Hero's whose mission is to provide a caring, innovative and comprehensive solution to homelessness among our veterans. Not only do we have a great conversation about the important work that Homes for Hero's is doing and what they have planned for the future. He opens up about deployment overseas and some of the incredible difficulties faced by our Canadian men and women when they serve in other countries. Thank you Don for your service and for sitting down to share it with us.
Martina's story begins in an orphanage in Egypt, which turned into a strange journey to Canada. She found the world of substance abuse at a young age, which showed her a life in and out of jail where she eventually began her recovery journey. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy she has maintained her recovery and is now trying to focus on her own healing and understanding life without the fog of substances.
After a loss in her family, Jessica set out to start an organization called Change the Face of Addiction. Jessica talks about her own learning and working towards a better understanding of addiction, harm reduction, the politics of non profit funding, and the best way in which to help. To Find out more about her organization click HERE
We are so happy to have Bronwyn join us to talk about how she started down the path of substance use. With an early intervention from a friend and family, as well as her realizations about who she wanted to be. She was able to begin her life of recovery and loving life. Today Bronwyn is a life coach, helping others come through their darkness, whatever that may look like. She enjoys her life today, spending more time on the things she loves. Thank you Bronwyn!
We are joined by Logan, an aspiring local, Calgarian musician and university student. We have a great conversation about his music, inspirations, university life during covid and the challenges it presents. I hope you all will look for his music and check him out. I think his music is awesome and his message is a damn good one.
Vanisha joins us to talk about youth addiction, the Terminator Foundation and how things went through the Covid lock down. How the organization is recovering from the pandemic. She also now hosts her own podcast called Ordinary Courage. Listen to the podcast here and to find the registration or for more information about the Terminator Run go here.
We are happy to have Nicque join us to talk about the joy she finds and the things she does to create joy in her life. Struggling early on with substances fed her depression, self harm, and disordered eating. She talks about how she built a life that she thought was expected of her and how it all looked wonderful from the outside, but on the inside it wasn't her and it wasn't the life she really wanted. After trying new activities she was able to find some peace and connection. She has since completely changed her life, travelled, and is still trying as many new things as possible. Her mood and spirit is contagious and infectious, thank you Nicque!
Taylor sits down with us and talks about her experiences and how she feels being in recovery. Taylor faced racism and bullying in school; she quickly found out she fit in with older kids where she had access to substances and people who understood her. After a very personal and painful loss, Taylor began to increase her substance use. Despite moving across the country her addiction got worse until she attempted to overdose. She has been on the path of recovery ever since her overdose attempt. We want to thank Taylor for being open and sharing her courage, strength and hope with us.
We were honoured to sit down with Renee and hear her amazing story. Renee remembers her first abusers and from there we are taken to a life of masking pain at a very young age. She was in several abusive relationships sending her deeper into addiction. Today, in recovery, Renee is enjoying life as much as possible with her children and focuses daily on choosing to do the right next thing. Thank you Renee for sharing your story.
We are joined by Jin today. He takes us through the last few years of his life where he has had to find a way to cope with and live with the loss of his brother and his fiancé to suicide. This enormous loss has not only shaped his outlook on family, health and wellness, career, and his life. It has forever altered how he interacts and can empathize with people. It is an incredible story that we are honoured to share with you all. As he spoke, the love he has for his brother, family and anyone who might be suffering is so very evident. Thank you Jin, you are one special human.
We are joined by the amazing and talented Amy Lee Owens. She joins us to talk about her journey into recovery, as well as her musical journey. She and friend, musician Marvin Kee honour us with a few of her beautiful songs.
To find out more about Amy or to listen to more of her music head to https://www.amyleeowens.com
On guitar was Marvin Kee which you can find on instagram @theflymuse
We are happy to have Tony join us to talk about how he came to recovery and how he has changed in some ways dramatically through the process. Tony's story starts with divorced parents, bullying, and the discovery of substances to numb out feelings at an early age. Tony kept things together, as best as he could, but with the loss of custody of his child he went back to a life he didn't want. With some setbacks along the way, he was able to rebuild some relationships, and is still working on rebuilding others. He spends a lot of time today giving back to other humans in many different ways. Thank you Tony, for your story and for all you do.
This week we are joined by Derek who talks in great detail about his frame of mind regarding recovery during his early attempts. From thinking he could simply will himself into sobriety and his belief that he can do it all on his own to understanding that he needs to be honest and seek peer support. He talks about how he has been able to build up his self esteem while also pushing himself to work through his own fears during recovery. He continually strives to get better; sharing his experience, strength and hope as an outstretched hand. Thank you Derek!
Jon takes us through a quick body scan meditation and into a meditation with the focus being acceptance. Acceptance dissolves our resistance and allows us to get honest with ourselves about what is working and what isn't.
This week we share Vee's story. He talks about being indigenous in Canada and how important it is to stand up and get our citizens and government to listen to the people. He is deeply passionate about his life and the course he's chosen. Despite challenges within and without the indigenous community, he remains steadfast in his purpose. It is amazing seeing the incredible passion at work in his life! Thank you Vee, I appreciate you taking the time to chat with me. Keep your eyes peeled for his rallies coming up in August!
Maddy Joins us and tells her journey through addiction, violence in her family and early experiences with alcohol. Enduring a great deal of bullying during her school years led her to move on to other substances and eventually dropping out of school and becoming homeless by grade 8. During homelessness, she experienced exploitation, violence, a number of attempts to get sober with no support, and thoughts of self harm. Finding herself in her first meeting at 17 years old she began to make a new life in recovery. Now she is happy in recovery and continuing her education in post secondary as a social worker. Her life has been pretty incredible.
A soothing loving-kindness meditation with a focus on breath, centering, and sending loving-kindness to people in your life for your benefit. Redirect yourself towards sending positive, loving kindness to everyone. A wonderful meditation when you're feeling agitated
This week I met with Kemoh Mansaray. He is the Lloydminster Local Immigration Partnership Coordinator, a board member and community engagement chair of the Africa Centre, past president of the Sierra Leone Association of Alberta and founding board chair of the Clareview Multicultural Centre. He is presently a member of the Black Coalition Against Racism Black-CAR recently formed due to the out cry of Black Lives Matter.
We are joined by Tara, an active volunteer for Calgary Beyond the Blue. Beyond the Blue is a peer-led, non-profit organization with Chapters across the country. They are dedicated to strengthening and supporting families of law enforcement officers in Canada. We strive to promote an awareness of our officer's worth as well as an understanding of the joys and struggles that are uniquely experienced in life in law enforcement.
To find out more about Calgary Beyond the Blue head to https://www.calgarybeyondtheblue.com
Long time friend, Nicole joins us to talk about her life in recovery, which has not been an easy path, but the healthiest for Nicole. She found herself in meetings at 24 where she discovered the people there were talking about things she was feeling, but could not articulate. Throughout all of the challenges, she now finds purpose in her life and devotes as much time as she can to helping others. Thank you my friend, it was a lovely time sitting and talking with you.
This special episode is with Dom Yellow Sun. We talk about his connection to Black Lives Matter and his deep, ever strengthening roots with the constant struggle in Canada for Indigenous rights. If we get lost in the mire, I may forget that in some cases the indigenous rights he and others fight for are the basic rights I take for granted each day. A deep seeded fear of the government, police etc through that definite and powerful lense of intergenerational trauma. Clean water and livable conditions. And so much more.... Take a listen.
Find him on instagram @killuminati_990
We are fortunate to have Chelsea sit down with us and take us through her story. Starting with her parents divorce when she was younger, Chelsea increased her partying and consumption. Chelsea eventually found herself in training for the RCMP helped to escalated her drinking which continued until she moved, changed employers and found her life falling apart around her. When she first sought help she wasn't convinced she really needed to change but it didn't take long for her to realize she had to commit to the process. Now she is living life to the fullest in recovery.
I am joined by a current Canadian police officer, who provides us a unique and open perspective on the current climate of policing. She speaks openly about some of the areas that have room for improvement, the impacts of the changes being suggested and her thoughts on how recent events are affecting officers.
This was such a great conversation with John about workaholism and its effect on a person's life. Growing up with a constant reminder that he was never good enough managed helping John down a path of focus into complete obsession with work. Work became where he was able to feel that he had value. It was during his second marriage and recovery from an injury that he was given a copy of the book, Chained to the Desk by Bryan E. Robinson. This was where he started realizing and recognizing that his workaholic behaviour was unhealthy. When it threatened his marriage John took action and reached out for help. John went on to eventually organize the first workaholics anonymous meeting in Calgary. He continues involvement with recovery because it has brought his amazing daughters closer than ever before. He tries diligently to help others struggling with workaholism as a corner stone of that recovery. Thank you my friend.
Amber nervously joins us to share her story. At a young age Amber felt like an oddball and that she didn't really belong anywhere. She began stealing and trying substances when she was young. She eventually found a social group based on partying and substance use. After a geographical change, she began a relationship with her dealer, which eventually led to her going into drug court. Amber has been on her recovery journey since her program was completed. She now focuses on raising her son and maintaining a positive mental focus in her life. Thank you for the courage to share your story with us Amber. We appreciate you.
Nika joins us to talk about the Black Lives Matter movement in Calgary, what the next steps are, and why it is so important for people to support the fight for equality of all people and the end of systemic racism. She talks about getting educated, active, donating to the cause if possible, voting for new, fresh ideas and progressive leadership, and signing petitions that can lead to change. Obviously with systematic racism, we need to dismantle and re-work said system that sees humans oppressed as an acceptable byproduct of human "progress".
Kasey begins his story with feelings of being disconnected and alone, which led him to search for who he was. This question led him down the path of substance abuse, in which he found some sense of identity. A place where he could numb the pain of life and loss. Through a growing darkness surrounded him, he found this new path in life from the depths of his illness. He has reconnected with family, reconnected to his love of music, and he finds true purpose in helping others. We enjoyed having Kasey join us and are honoured to have him share so openly.
We had a great time sitting with my good friend Anita and her journey into recovery. She started off drinking at parties in junior and senior high school, moving on to even more drinking while attending college. Anita went on to a career where alcohol was part of the culture. Where sobriety was frowned upon if not overtly discouraged. During her career she moved around throughout Canada, witnessed and experienced harassment within the organization. She experienced trauma from the types of things she was being exposed to at work. That and the lack of supports from her organization contributed to heavier and heavier alcohol use. Finally she was able to get the help she wanted and desperately needed. Today she continues making huge steps on her road of recovery. Dealing with alcohol dependancy and PTSD has been a challenge and she faces that with great courage and openness. Thank you Anita.
Jon, Darcy and I sit down to have a fun conversation about some of our favourite movies. Many spoiler alerts if you are not a movie watcher!
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Getting the opportunity to sit down and get to know Alec was a treat for me. His story is incredible and the courage to follow his own path in life and recovery is commendable. Alec has found the Red Road to recovery and is connecting more deeply and personally with his Indigenous culture and practices. I appreciate you Alec, thank you for coming on the show and blowing my mind man. I am grateful that you are out there changing the world in the ways you can.
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Marco dropped by and shared his incredible story of family and recovery from trauma. He shares about emotional and physical survival in one of the most difficult professions humans occupy. From his personal and family life, through many difficult calls stacked close together came the challenge of holding space for hurting and in many cases, dying humans and the loved ones left behind. We talk about suicide and the impact on families for generations. We were fortunate that he talked about intergenerational trauma that his mother's family experience. Marco's Arcega and my family, the Lewrys go back almost forty years! It is a small world and thank God for that. We are honored by you Marco and the service you provide to our community. God speed sir!
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Jon guides us through a loving kindness meditation.
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Jon takes us through a guided body scan meditation.
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Sherry came by back in early March to share her story of recovery with us. I have know her for nearly 15 years. Her steadfast discipline to recover is inspiring and her heart is undeniable. Love you my friend and thank you for sharing yourself with us. God speed Sherry! You are awesome!!!
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I spoke with Daniel about what brought him through addiction and into recovery. Starting from a young age Daniel not only learned to mask his feelings with substances, but also how to keep secrets from those closest to him. He talks about his low point, but also how his family played and continues to play a key role in his recovery. He lives a principled life to the best of his ability, recognizing the process unfolds over time.
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Joining us back in February was Samuel. We had a great conversation about his journey through trauma early in life, which paved the way to addiction throughout his teen years. He made his way through a number of programs before finding the connection he needed to walk down the path of recovery. Today he focuses on his training and working towards his goals to help maintain his sobriety. Thank you Samuel! Keep it up out there my friend.
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Chaz and I have a lovely chat over the phone this week. He is out there in the community with his group, Be The Change YYC, bringing much needed outreach and advocacy for those experiencing homelessness. He and I chat about where the province has gone wrong by overriding the municipal government in respects to housing the homeless during this pandemic. He is not only intelligent and caring, but passionate and driven as well. We are all lucky he is out there doing what he is. Thank you Chaz. I appreciate you.
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Jeff joins us, sharing his journey through addiction to recovery. It starts with early feelings of survivors guilt after his time in the hospital, as a child for treatment of cancer and continues on through PTSD, being a teenage runaway, and winds up with him finding recovery and him reaching for and achieving a lifelong goal. He has ambition to serve and we have a feeling he'll do exactly that.
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This week I am joined by Maria. Maria's journey starts with parents struggling with their own addictions to her addiction, which escalated for a number of years, on again off again with sobriety, to her finally stepping out of her own way and walking the road of recovery.
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Hunter joins us tonight and shares her journey from experimenting with substances at a young age and the stress of meeting her father for the first time at 18 years old. She moved out on her own at 15, ending up in Toronto. After a rough time she found her way into recovery where she presently lives. She focuses on using positive language to herself and others and is finally feeling comfortable with herself.
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Lona drops in and shares her incredible journey with us. She talks about memories of scary church plays, feelings of rejection for being gay, thoughts of suicide, and the challenges facing both closeted and open gay humans. She lived through abusive relationships, drinking daily for 6 years, and the constant self doubt and self-loathing. Lona has been sober for 16 months, and some of her keys to recovery are getting involved with the fellowship, working the steps, working with others, and finding freedom from negative self talk!
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Darcy and I sit down to have a conversation about the blockades that are happening around Canada, the hate that surrounds them and share our understanding of this situation.
To learn more check out this video: Invasion by Unistoten Camp
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
This week, my other friend, Jenn... joins us and shares her story. It starts with major changes at an early age, which led to feelings of not fitting in and her rebellious teen years. Although she knocked on the doorway to recovery early in her life, she was able to stick with recovery after going through an adolescent focused recovery treatment center. Since then she dedicates both her professional and personal time to helping some of the most vulnerable humans. Thank you for your time and thank you for all that you do out there, my friend.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Meagan joins us this week and tell us her story and shares some of her amazing music. While she journied through many experiences, using her songs and her family to live with anxiety and depression. She works hard everyday, sticking as best she can to routines and positive discipline to maintain balance. We were honored to sit with her and share in her beautiful energy and spirit. We are now honoured to share her story and amazing talent with you all.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
This week Eve stops in to talk about her research project on addiction and options for treatment. She shares her personal story as well as findings from the project. It was a deep and honest conversation about recovery and addiction. Thank you for sharing your story and for the work you're doing towards helping people with addictions.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
I am joined by our group of certified White Bison facilitators that have been running the Medicine Wheel & The 12 Steps since November of last year. Marilyn, Michelle, Darcy, and Heather speak about how this program has impacted their lives and why they think this process is important. Starting in February they will be providing White Bison's, Mending Broken Hearts in the Calgary area. This comprehensive program provides culturally-based healing from grief, loss, and Intergenerational Trauma. We are grateful to share with you.
To find out more about these programs check out White Bison at www.whitebison.org
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
This week, Eryn Dewald and her daughter, Lindsey Kelly join us after Lindsey regaled us with an amazing concert. Lindsey sang beautifully and John Morgan plays a wonderful piano. We learn, as Eryn describes her incredible organization, The Children's Link Society and the work they do each and every day in Calgary. We hear about Lindsey's amazing musical journey and her dreams.
The Children's Link Society can be found at www.childrenslink.ca
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
This week we sat down with Mike and Katherine. We talked about recovery, aliens, consciousness, discernment, conspiracy, and other things I know very little about. I left this podcast wondering about many, many things. Thankfully Darcy Robinson was there to revive me after I collapsed beneath the mountain of information Mike and Katherine provided. It was a lot of fun and they are wonderful humans. Thank you both for blowing my mind...
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
This was a fantastic conversation with Jon and Darcy about things like AI, youth activists, and our favourite things about 2019. We also have a very open, honest, and heartfelt conversation about depression, suicide, and the stigma that goes along with depression.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Jim joins us, sharing his story from childhood into young adolescence where alcohol slowly replaced his other mechanisms of survival. Jim learned early on that he could use his Asthma to gain attention and he used that whenever he could. He believed that drinking was a rite of passage, which he justified and allowed it to become more and more dominant in his life. His first steps to recovery came after a major car accident while he was under the influence. He struggled with recovery until he started to make spiritual connections, allowing that to help him find the courage and strength to remain sober.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
What a special week we have for you. Wayne Lewry, my pops, drops in to share about his 70 plus years on our beautiful planet, raising children, evolving ministry, and his love for all things family. We talk about his passion for helping people from the very dark place of his spiritual awakening some 50 plus years ago... Thank you Wayne!
To learn more about Recovering Couples Anonymous go to https://recovering-couples.org
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Annie and Russ tell us about a wildly unknown group for couples, "Recovering Couples Anonymous" here in Calgary and all over the place. The approach seems way too logical and reasonable... It just might help folks out! This group meets at Wild Rose United Church, 1317 - 1st street NW in Calgary.
To learn more about Recovering Couples Anonymous go to https://recovering-couples.org
Or to connect in the Calgary, AB Canada area please email calgaryrca@gmail.com
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
This week we are joined by long time friend, Linda. From her life as an army brat through so many twists and turns, you'll need a seat belt, into the present. Today, she manages her own company and expends countless volunteer hours helping veterans in her "spare" time. She is one of the helpers. The tireless. Ageless. Helpers. And for you, Linda. We are thankful.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Mary's story starts off with angry reluctance to enter recovery in order to appease her family, multiple life changing losses, and her eventually realizing that she had to stop looking for someone or something to heal her and start looking inside herself. She shares the importance spirituality and prayer plays in her recovery. She works with others regularly and honors herself and her family.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
After years of dedicated military service and spending the last decade in law enforcement, Dusty and his wife Katherine have faced the reality of living with PTSD. Recognizing it as an inevitable consequence of his service and seeing it as an occupational stress injury helps both of them to understand that this is no different that mending any other injury. Working on healing as a team, we are honoured to have both of them talking so openly and honestly about this injury that affects both of them so deeply.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Pamela joins us in an open and honest conversation about mental health and her life long struggle to get healthy. She has worked very hard to get to a place where she is living her life with a trustworthy support network, and has embraced the life philosophy that she must go head first into the things she fears and that we must get out of the boxes that other people figure we are supposed to be in. She is very active on Facebook with her page Pamela's Journey to Herself, where she "wears the f*in cape!
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Michelle joins me to talk about everything from politics, trauma, Indigenous trauma, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, as well as some of her activism in the areas of harm reduction, LGBTQ2+ rights, and Indigenous trauma and rights. Michelle is very involved in the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls inquiry and is on the front lines of the affects this has on our community.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
This week we were gifted a visit from my much, much, much older brother, Greg. He is a father, son, brother, and friend to many. One of the other things he's been is a soldier. I'm going to let him speak for himself through the podcast because I could never do him justice. I will say that he is one of the most generous humans I know. It's not something he wants to get out there, but it's the least I can do for him considering how often and quickly he is there for others in need. Thank you brother.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Crystal tells us her story of working her way out of addiction and into recovery. Crystal's experiences led her to work in a hospice centre where Crystal's seemingly endless well of compassion allows her to help families in some of the hardest times in their lives. Her compassion is what led her down a path of becoming a vegan and then taking it further to stand up against corporate agriculture and the inhumane treatment of animals
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Cheri takes us through the beginnings of addiction, turmoil in her family, divorce, relapse, and continued struggles with recovery. She highlights the power of having someone to turn to for help. Cheri is able, with daily work, to live her best life out of chaos, and into peace.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
All of us at Voices In Recovery and Freedom's Path Recovery Society are proud to announce the start of The Medicine Wheel and 12 Steps programs. This group program is free of charge and open to indigenous and non-indigenous people. Men’s groups on Mondays, and women’s groups on Tuesday, and we respect self identification of your gender expression. (Two spirit and non-binary programs are pending)
The Medicine Wheel & 12 Steps for Men starts Monday Nov 18 from 7-9. For more information head to www.facebook.com/events/2508858812483825/
The Medicine Wheel & 12 Steps for Women starts Tuesday Nov 19 from 7-9. For more information head to www.facebook.com/events/966649760366371/
To find out more about White Bison and their programs go to www.whitebison.org
For more information about the 100 Eagle feather Sacred Hoop watch this video HERE
To check out some of the upcoming events or to get involved with Métis Local 87 click HERE
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Nicole shares her journey through addiction, sobriety and maintaining recovery while facing the challenges of life as a single mother. She experienced the divorce of her parents and faced identity challenges through her teen years. Nicole spent time in homelessness where she struggled and suffered to survive. As we spoke I recognized that with every word and gesture, she demonstrated courage and confidence. And now, after reading this description several times, I cannot believe how cool it is to have sat with her. I could not have guessed how much we had in common and how lucky we really are to be here. Thank you so much Nicole.
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Vanisha is the founder of the Terminator Run, which she has sculpted into the Terminator Foundation. She talks about starting the run, the evolution of the foundation, the iron man training program, what keeps her motivated and energized, and her continued efforts breaking stigma and having difficult conversations. She and David discuss supporting and empowering young people to stand up for themselves, their world, and their future.
For more information on the Terminator Run or the Foundation click HERE
If you are between 15-25 and struggling with addictions or know someone that is information on the group supported training can be found HERE
To show support for Voices In Recovery or to Freedom's Path click HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Randy has many years of sobriety, but despite this he works daily to stay sober and recover. He has worked through addiction to alcohol, prescription medications, has been through a difficult divorce - eventually finding strength to come out as a gay man. He talks about religion rejecting him, childhood abuse, suicide attempts, and his life long journey to strengthen his spirituality. Randy is open about the PTSD he suffers from related to his experience as a law enforcement officer. Now he volunteers in correctional facilities, helping those struggling with addiction and recovery. He attends a weekly first responders recovery meeting and is active within the LGBTQ2S and Indigenous communities.
"You're not alone. All you need to do is reach out your hand and somebody will be there." - Randy
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Boban joins us this week. He talks about growing up in Serbia and being out as a gay man. He's a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ2S community in Serbia and worked on their first pride parade! It was the violence he experienced in Serbia, which led him to leave home and immigrate to Canada where he continues to be a strong voice for the LGBTQ2S community. He now works with the Centre for Newcomers, ensuring LGBTQ2S new immigrants find a community of support, love, tolerance, and acceptance in their new home.
"If I accept myself as a victim I will be stuck in one place" - Boban
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Traci joins us as part of our focus on pride for the month of September. Traci's story starts in Texas and takes us through her divorce's, family death and dealing with grief, eventually leading her to come out. Throughout her life her faith played a pivotal role and she weaves that faith and how her faith has evolved as she has walked this path through life.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
The second part of Dave's story begins right where he left off, taking us through the more influential experiences and people which helped him find his path to sobriety. It is a story of not just sobriety but of personal growth, understanding his own truths and how different life became as he began to live a truthful life.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
It’s been an exciting year with the Voices in Recovery podcast and we’ve heard many amazing stories! To celebrate, your host David will be sharing his own personal story into recovery. The saga is divided into 2 parts, Chapter 1 takes us from his first memories of abuse and through the teenage years. Discussing the beginning of his addiction and into his adult life, where he talks about some of the relationships he had that changed him. Chapter 2 will be available Wednesday September 18th.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Joel's story involves his own enabling of loved one's addictions, being married young and then going through a difficult divorce. He talks about being in an abusive relationship after his divorce, co-dependancy, spiritually manipulation, and mental health. Through all of this and coping with the pain of losing a baby. Joel found his way to cope through music and songwriting. His story has and continues to change as he follows his dreams.
"Don't spend time blaming yourself or other people, spend time forgiving and loving" - Joel
To checkout Joel's music head to www.jtpearsonmusic.com
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Fraser joins us to talk about our similar back injuries and how living with long term, chronic pain can restrict mobility and satisfaction of life. Fraser expands on and talks about some of the techniques such as books, which have helped him qualify the negative thoughts he has, keeping his mind on a more positive, constructive track.
"How you frame the lens in which you view your reality will dictate what you're seeing" - Fraser
Fraser talks highly about the book Meditations: A new Translation: Marcus Aurelius so if you are interested you can find that book by clicking HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
From his first drink in Grade 8, Wes travelled a long road to recovery. Along his journey; self harm, feelings of not fitting in, replacing alcohol with pain medication, and the host of symptoms which can accompany alcoholism were mainstays in his life until sobriety. He was surprised to find the tolerance and acceptance, as he did in twelve step meetings. His life today is drastically different from what he dreamt where he's a grateful husband, father and business owner in Calgary.
"Life has grown & things have happened when I've let go of it" - Wes
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Claude takes us through his story of having an abusive father, living with mental illness, multiple obstacles, and surviving suicide attempts. He was able to find a place of happiness through it all, which led him to a place where he could forgive his father.
"Grudges are like pressing a self destruct button" - Claude
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Today Jenn talks to us about how addiction pummeled her at a very young age. Facing incredibly difficult circumstances, she remained and still remains sober. She points out some of the unique challenges there are for teens in recovery. She found and carries a sense of belonging, community, purpose, and happiness wherever she goes.
I could just sense that genuine happiness and I wanted to know what that felt like" - Jenn
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
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Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
I am joined by Mike M who tells me about how the early loss of his parents played a part in his addiction. His understanding of the role ego had in his addiction but also how he uses that understanding to ultimately shape his life in recovery.
"My dog can become a product of the chaos I create in my own head" - Mike M
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
With feelings of not fitting in, numerous career changes and after spending 10 years homeless; Bill talks with me about how he used the public library to figure out ways to improve his life. This reconnected him with the artist inside, which led him down paths in life he never thought he would walk!
"When I found art, I found what I was supposed to do" - Bill
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
From a life of an athlete to finding recovery Jason takes us on an interesting and twisted ride to recovery. Jason is not only living an inspired life in recovery now but he is also inspiring others with his weight loss journey and his joy for life
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
Yves joins me to talk about anxiety and learning to use that anxiety as a way to stay driven towards goals. He talks about how he used music and creativity as a therapy.
Check out more of his music HERE
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Music for this show provided by Eli Elliott
I am joined by the amazing Janessa. She has shown amazing strength by leaving domestic violence, entering sobriety, leaving her home base group and moving to a new province, becoming a single mom and going through divorce while maintaining her recovery.
"My life was grey...and now there's beautiful colours" - Janessa
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
If you would like more resources regarding domestic violence you can contact The Sheriff King Domestic Violence Program by clicking HERE
Brant joins me to talk about his journey from a Christian upbringing in central Alberta, living in numerous places to where he presently resides, and using meditation regularly as part of his recovery.
"It's a lot easier when you stop fighting it" - Brant
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Richard joins me to talk about being an atheist and recovery, SMART recovery and how endurance sports plays a part in is continued recovery.
"Keep doing a little bit everyday" - Richard
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
I am joined by an incredible young woman, Lexi. She is very open about her journey of self harm, feelings of shame and isolation which led her down the path of alcohol and drugs. Even in recovery she had to face an awful challenge when a very close partner passed away. This is a strong young woman and I am grateful to have her join me on the show and speak so openly about her story.
"The worst thing in my entire life happened in sobriety but through sobriety I was able to stay alive" - Lexi
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
I am joined by a close friend, Dominic, who talks to us about his position within ALERT (Alberta Law Enforcement Team). It is a very open discussion about the online dangers our children face and what we can do to keep our children safe online.
IF YOU KNOW OF A CHILD WHO IS IN IMMEDIATE DANGER OR AT RISK OF BEING SEXUALLY EXPLOITED:
- CALL 9-1-1
- CALL YOUR LOCAL POLICE DEPARTMENT OR RCMP DETACHMENT
- SUBMIT YOUR INFORMATION ONLINE AT CYBERTIP.CA
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Mike joins me to take us through his story of the death of his father when he was a young man, being bullied, to his career in the Military. He opens up about his PTSD, addiction, the career setbacks because of them and what life is like today in recovery.
"I don't have that chaos in my life anymore" - Mike
If you would like to help our Canadian Veterans please go to www.woundedwarriors.ca
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Tereasa's story takes us on a twisting journey through waking up in a mental health room, divorce recovery college, and SMART recovery. Her next step is to publish a book soon.
"There is more to you, you need to find out what more is and go towards the more" - Tereasa
To read more from Tereasa click HERE or head to www.tereasamarie.com
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
Magdalena takes me on quite the journey from growing up in Poland, living all over the world, and how grief, alcohol and domestic violence shaped a good portion of her life and how different life is for her and her family today.
"Enjoy today, grab every moment" - Magdalena
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
James joins me to talk about being struck by lightning, his road to recovery, and his many walks across Canada.
"Whatever gets you to that healing place, that is what you are meant to do" - James
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
I had the opportunity to travel down to visit my good friend Rafael in Mexico. Rafael has been building a recovery centre for the last few years and I wanted to head down and help as best I could. It was an amazing trip to see the changes and progress since I was last there a few years ago.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts (iTunes) click HERE
To subscribe or listen to the podcast on Google Podcasts click HERE
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Sean talks about PTSD, trauma, and being open about getting professional help to deal with those things. We also hear some very creepy stories from working nights at hospitals!
"Shutting that inner voice up and just being, Hey you know what, this is ok, it's perfectly normal" - Sean
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Jeff joins me to talk about the long road through addiction and the obstacles he faced along the way.
"I had to get honest, I had to deal with those demons" - Jeff
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Nolan joins me to talk about growing up around substance abuse, the affects of moving to a large city later in life and experiencing severe bullying, being surrounded by violence at school, and so much more."What I have now is amazing." - Nolan
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Carissa joins me today to go through her struggles with depression and sobriety while living with kidney disease."I found people and I found somewhere that I felt like I belonged finally" - CarissaPlease go to her Facebook page My Kidney is Dying. Can I Please Have Yours?
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Brittney B joins me today to talk about denying a part of who you are and the effects that had on her.
“Scared and excited feel the same and I figured if all my life I have been scared then I should try and be excited” - Brittney B
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Kim joins me to talk about some of the lessons he has learned and figuring out who you are through this crazy life we all live!
"Everyone has issues with identity" - Kim
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
A great conversation about eating disorders and replacing one addiction with another. She also talks about how spoken word poetry impacted her. "Addiction comes from pain, no matter the substance or activity" - Brittney
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
This week I am joined by Alex who goes through the challenges he faced as a chef working all over the world, his experience of sobriety at Burning Man. "If it is not practical it isn't spiritual."
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Checkout Trevor's motorcycle maintenance business Dirty Jeans DIY
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Check out Iam's website at www.iamcoulter.com
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Check out A Destination Lifestyle HERE
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Also check out the WAM Centre for Ascension
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
If you are in Alberta and need someone to talk to please call the Calgary Distress Centre 24 hour support number 403-266-HELP (4357)
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Voices in Recovery is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Podbean
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Michelle's podcast, Native Calgarian, is available on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, and Podbean.
To Follow Michelle
Instagram: @nativeyyc
Twitter: @n8v_calgarian
Facebook: @nativecalgarian
Website: Native Calgarian
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
To support us go to our website www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Sign the petition to banning conversion therapy to minors in Canada
www.petitions.ourcommons.ca/en/Petition/Sign/e-1833
Check out Pam's podcast, Sacred and Profane
www.pamrocker.com/projects/
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Find Freedom's Path at www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
Find Freedom's Path at www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
For information or support please contact us through www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Check out NJL Body Health Solutions for movement therapy and complete body health solutions at www.movebettermoveoften.com or email Nathan at info@njltraining.com
If you would like to purchase a copy of Nathan's book MYOfascial Exercise: For the Modern Day click HERE
Also if you have a painting project of any size check out Imagine Painting www.imaginepainting.ca. If you mention the Voices in Recovery podcast you will get 5% off
Also mentioned in this podcast, check out Jill Drader at www.jilldrader.com
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
For information or support please contact us through www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Check out NJL Body Health Solutions for movement therapy and complete body health solutions at www.movebettermoveoften.com or email Nathan at info@njltraining.com
If you would like to purchase a copy of Nathan's book MYOfascial Exercise: For the Modern Day click HERE
Also if you have a painting project of any size check out Imagine Painting www.imaginepainting.ca. If you mention the Voices in Recovery podcast you will get 5% off
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
For information or support please contact us through www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Check out NJL Body Health Solutions for movement therapy and complete body health solutions. Email Nathan at info@njltraining.comAlso if you have a painting project of any size check out Imagine Painting www.imaginepainting.ca. If you mention the Voices in Recovery podcast you will get 5% offAnd I mention a singer named Marie Bridge and you can find her music at www.mariebridge.com
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
For information or support please contact us through www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
For information or support please contact us through www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca
Stories from survivors and warriors living in the world of recovery. We can and do recover in many different ways and these stories are from incredible humans living their second, third, hundredth lives. Tune in for a laugh, a cry, and some information you may not have had yesterday.
For information or support please contact us through www.freedomspathrecoverysociety.ca