The Recovery Cast: Recent Episodes
Edward Handley
The Recovery Cast is brought to you by Hills and Ranges Private. Join your Host, Oliver, as he discusses all things Recovery. Listen to a daily reading from a variety of 12 step programs, and hear from special guests as they unpack their recovery tips, experience, strength and hope.
Today we talk about the strength of togetherness and the energy found in 12 step meetings. Places where people have shared experience and help each other in their recovery journey.
Reservations are instances in our recovery through which we feel it is acceptable to relapse. The death of a loved one, relationship breakdown, loss of employment - the reasons can be varied. Today we discuss how reservations are a ticking time bomb that need to be dealt with as soon as possible!
Today we talk about how we used to live an unbearable and ghost-like existence as using addicts/alcoholics, and how we can find a new way to live in recovery.
Today we talk about the Live, Love, Laugh of the recovery world. Listening to others' experience, sharing honestly, and a routine of regular prayer and/or meditation is a great way to avoid relapse!
Today we talk about the deep feelings of discomfort we sometimes get, and how we can get out of ourselves by focusing on and serving others. Failing that, we just have to hold on and wait until our feelings change!
How do we survive our addiction/alcoholism? Some of us believe in a higher power, others choose to overcome their addiction without any spirituality involved, and still more people find relief in other ways. However we do it, we need to find what works for us. Take what you want and leave the rest.
Today we talk about how we can learn to share our true and honest selves with others in order to grow in recovery. It is important to find people we identify with who we can share our experiences, whether that be at 12 step meetings, day programs, group therapy or whatever works for us!
Today we talk about seeing others grow through working a strong recovery program, and how we can survive what is often the most stressful and triggering time of the year - Christmas.
Today we discuss how the act of giving back to the fellowships that have kept us sober can help us continue our journey of sobriety. We also continue to give back to the world around us by re-entering the work force once we are ready, BUT ONLY WHEN we are ready.
Newcomers - those nervous, broken and reluctant people we see crawling into a rehab, detox or meeting. We were all like that once upon a time. Today we discuss what that was like for us, and how we now help those people get through that confused period of early sobriety.
What do we do when we wake up in the morning resenting everything around us, feel like shit and can't deal with the world around us? Today we talk about how to deal with a case of the F*ckits and perhaps even feel a little bit of gratitude for where we are in our recovery.
Today we discuss how to use the 12 steps and a strong recovery program to overcome, undo and make amends for the bad stuff we used to do in active addiction/alcoholism. Many of us had to resort to crime of one kind or another, whether it was drink/drug driving, theft, fraud or assault type charges. Lets talk about it!
Sometimes it is important to share the absolute horror and disaster of our using experiences, so we can remember how bad things were in active addiction. Sharing a positive message is great, but give us the juicy stuff too!
Today we talk about how to lead by example and carry the message to others, whilst also having a laugh at ourselves. If we can't learn to find the humour in our experience of addiction and recovery then life might be very dull indeed.
Today we talk about what it means to really listen in meetings, and get past our own self obsession in order to hear the message of recovery from others. Also, is recovery boring? Find out on this episode of The Recovery Cast.
Today we look at the often problematic learned behaviours and coping mechanisms that need to be dealt with in our recovery. When we enter into recovery it is not just our addiction and alcoholism that must change - it is our old behaviours, often known as "character defects" that we need to remove in order to maintain a strong and healthy recovery.
True Ambition - Today we discuss what is really important in our lives, and how we can look past the material world of greed, ego and personal gain, to the true essence of our existence and what it means to be alive.
Today we look at the risks and rewards associated with our relationships and romance in recovery, and how our recovery must come first ahead of relationships to avoid relapse and other unhealthy behaviours.
On Today's Episode we discuss constructive, healthy and productive ways to make ourselves feel good and get out of those bad moods or negative mindsets we often feel. Along with practicing the 12 steps and the associated change that those bring in our lives, we also need a more practical, cognitive behavioural therapy based approach that strengthens our recovery program.
Today we discuss how it sometimes takes a profound change in our spiritual landscape in order to make continued recovery possible, when previously we were unable to live our lives running on our own will.
On Today's Episode Alexis and Oliver talk about how we can practise the skills and principles we have learned in recovery in every facet of our lives - especially in dealing with our loved ones and those around us.
Today Oliver and Alexis look at the things we gain in life when we put our recovery first, or, the things we lose when we put other things ahead of our recovery.
On Today's Episode Alexis and Oliver take a look at the "Suggested Things" - the tried and tested methods used by many people in recovery to build and keep their recovery strong: Step work, sticking with others who have a strong recovery, self care and healthy boundaries.
Oliver and Alexis talk about how we learn who we really are when we stay abstinent and in recovery for a period of time. Living life without the clouding of the mind brought on by substance use, we grow a kind of clarity that brings us closer to others and to our true selves.
On Today's Episode Oliver and Alexis discuss how it is sometimes important to remain anonymous as people in recovery, and as members of a 12 step fellowship. They also talk about how we must become truly ready to step into recovery ourselves, and why attraction rather than promotion is the most effective way to share our new lives in recovery with those who are still in the grip of their addiction.
On Today's Show Oliver and Alexis talk about how we get to know our true selves in recovery and through working a strong recovery program.
On Today's Show Oliver and Alexis take a look at how important anonymity is when there is so much stigma surrounding addiction. Although it is sometimes necessary to keep our struggles with addiction or alcoholism under wraps, we must also try to break down the stigma by sharing our experiences where possible and appropriate.
On Today's Show Oliver is joined by The Recovery Cast's new co-host Alexis, and they discuss the responsibilities our recovery brings and how we must rise to the occasion and appreciate each moment, no matter what it brings.
On Today's Episode Oliver examines the 12th tradition of anonymity, and how music is a powerful tool and can be used to change our mood, aiding our recovery.
On Today's Episode Oliver looks at the Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book chapter "We Agnostics" and shares his experience of how keeping your surroundings tidy can help keep your mind clear and recovery healthy.
On Today's Episode Oliver chats to Dena, a former guest at Hills And Ranges Private. They discuss Dena's journey and transformation from life before, during and after her treatment at Hills And Ranges Private, and how she is enjoying a truly stable and rewarding life as a result of the program on offer there.
Today's JFT reading is from August 18th - "How long do I have to go?"
On Today's Episode Oliver discusses how we need to prioritise our recovery during that crucial first year of sobriety, and what that looked like for him. Today's JFT reading is "Foundation First." Oliver also looks at his gratitude for the special people in his life, and how we can all be grateful for the people who care about us.
On Today's Episode Oliver looks at the next step in the "Exploring the 12 steps series" - today we look at the 9th step. Oliver discusses how our addiction can cause problems at work, and how he went about making a difficult amends to a former employer. The feeling of freeing ourselves from the burden of a past misdeed through making amends is priceless and liberating.
On Today's Episode Oliver looks at "Finding Fulfilment" in recovery, and how he now knows the real fulfilment comes from living his spiritual program. The external, material things we gain in recovery are never enough and can't satisfy that internal craving the way spiritual growth, acceptance and understanding of ourselves can.
On Today's Episode Oliver discusses what can happen to us if we let our recovery program slip for a while, and how it can take some bad news, illness or other life occurrence to set us back on our spiritual recovery path. He also looks at the importance of sleep and how we can practice good sleep hygiene to help our recovery.
On Today's Episode Oliver looks at how working the 10th step (and the 12 steps in general) is a journey of self discovery, self acceptance and personal growth and success. He also delves down into how the stigma surrounding addiction is harmful to people suffering from addiction, and how The Recovery Cast and Hills And Ranges Private are stigma free zones, enabling us to access the help we need.
Today's Episode is another instalment of the "Meet the staff at Hills And Ranges Private" series. Oliver chats with guest Kelly about her role at Hills And Ranges Private and how our connections with others are benefited by working a strong recovery program.
On Today's Episode Oliver looks at the JFT reading "Alone No More" and shares his experience of re-entering the work force in recovery. He also looks at the assistance Hills And Ranges Private offers professionals who may be unable to leave their work during treatment. Working in early recovery can be a difficult experience and great care should be taken negotiating this important step in our lives.
On Today's Episode Oliver takes another look at how prayer and meditation is a vital tool to strengthen our recovery - life is easier when we have a routine of regular prayer and meditation. We also continue investigating the 12 steps. Today's episode is focusing on Step 8: "We made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all."
On Today's Episode Oliver delves down into the concept that our recovery is not just about surviving - Thriving is inevitable when we work a strong recovery program! Our recovery gives us another chance to experience life's joys.
The JFT reading is "Not Just Surviving."
On Today's Episode Oliver shares his experience of that first year of sobriety - all the things that we get to experience, often for the first time in our lives. The A.A Daily Reflections reading is on "Looking Outward."
On Today's Episode Oliver discusses the Just For Today reading "Our Own Story" and how everyone has a unique and special experience, that we matter! Your story told through sharing at a meeting can help another person on their own journey in recovery. Stick around for some exciting news at the end of the episode.
On Today's Episode Oliver is joined again by his sponsor Tim to discuss the A.A Daily Reflection "Self Acceptance." Tim talks about his experience and thoughts on a higher power, finding self acceptance and how we can best go about doing this on our own journeys in recovery.
On Today's Episode Oliver takes a look at Spiritual Principles, and how applying these principles to our daily lives helps us overcome fear and lead a balanced, joyful and free recovery.
On Today's Episode Oliver takes another look into the 12 steps from his perspective, as part of the 12 step breakdown series. We are up to Step 7: "We humbly asked Him remove our shortcomings."
Today's A.A Daily Reflections reading is "Stepping Into The Sunlight."
On Today's Episode Oliver looks at the Just For Today reading "Freed From Insanity," and how being in recovery allows us to change our thinking toward a healthier and happier mental state.
On Today's Episode Oliver discusses the Just For Today reading "Feeling God's Will" and how we learn to make the right choices in recovery. He also looks at the benefits of spending time in nature and regular exercise as part of a solid recovery program, both of which are part of treatment at Hills And Ranges Private.
On Today's Episode we take another look at the 12 steps. Oliver shares his experience and some insight on step 6, and what working step 6 looks like to the uninitiated. Today's reading is from the A.A Daily Reflections book; "Going With The Flow."
On Today's Episode Oliver takes a look at Recovery Dharma, a recovery program that uses Buddhist Principles and Practices to help treat and heal from addiction. Today's reading is from the JFT, entitled; "God's Guidance"
On Today's Episode Oliver reads from the AA Daily Reflection - A Daily Discipline, and follows up on what he learned at his latest SMaRT Recovery Meeting.
On Today's Episode Oliver shows us how the enjoyment of music can be a powerful tool in our recovery program. Music Therapy is one of the activities on offer at Hills And Ranges Private. The JFT reading is November 3 - No Matter What.
On Today's Episode Oliver discusses the AA Daily Reflections reading - Keeping Optimism Afloat, and how the application of certain steps of 12 step programs help us to gain new clarity and understanding of our recovery and our lives. He also looks at how meditation can greatly increase this clarity - and a few tips on meditating.
Today's Episode is another one for the families of those suffering from addiction. Oliver looks at his family's experiences pre and post rehabilitation. We discuss what your family can do to help your loved one who may be suffering from addiction, and that there is support out there, and hope for a bright future.
Today's JFT reading is November 1 - Awakening.
Today's Episode is a very special one - Oliver speaks to his sister Emily about her experience living with a family member who suffers from addiction. They talk about how Oliver went from being acutely unwell to getting into recovery and beginning to rebuild and repair his relationships in the family. While having an unwell family member can be deeply concerning and upsetting, there is hope for families and those who are addicted today.
On Today's Episode Oliver and guest Amanda discuss how it can take some serious courage and perseverance to maintain our recovery. They also talk about Recovery Dharma - an emerging recovery program, one of many we can use, that is also available as part of treatment at Hills And Ranges Private.
On Today's Episode Oliver shares how a traumatic experience affected his addiction, and ultimately lead to him choosing recovery. We learn how he uses tools learned from his treatment and ongoing recovery program to treat and heal from his trauma.
Today's reading is from the A.A Daily Reflections book: "Our Survival."
On Today's Episode Oliver and guest John talk about how it can sometimes take a great emotional upheaval to change our attitudes and bring about the opportunity to take that first step into recovery. John shares how he gave recovery one last shot and found success.
Today's JFT reading is on Attitudes.
On Today's Episode Oliver talks about how other people in recovery just seem to "get it!" What should we do about our old friendships and connections once we are in recovery? A.A Daily Reflection reading 27th of October - Global Sharing.
In today's Episode Oliver talks about making that first step into recovery - accepting help, and what that can look like for those of us who find this cocept to be daunting and insurmountable. Today's reading is from the JFT - Self Acceptance.
On this Episode Oliver takes a break from the "Meet the Staff at Hills And Ranges Private" series, and has a look at the holistic and multi faceted approach to recovery on offer at Hills And Ranges Private; introducing a new recovery methodology - The SMaRT Recovery program. Today's AA Daily Reflection is "A.A's Heartbeat."
Oliver chats with the Lead Facilitator at Hills And Ranges Private - Lauren, and finds out about what she does in her role, and what she gets to experience on a day to day basis as a member of staff. They also look at the Just For Today reading - Responsibility.
Today's special episode marks the beginning of a new series - Meet the Staff at Hills And Ranges Private! On today's episode of The Recovery Cast, Oliver chats to Facility Manager at Hills And Ranges Private - Adam, and discusses the AA Daily Reflection "What We Know Best."
On today's Episode Oliver reads from the JFT reading "Look Who's Talking" and discusses how addiction can affect our thought processes, even when we are in recovery, and how we can use our 12 step program to counter those unhealthy thoughts.
In this episode Oliver discusses the Daily Reflection, and some insight into that thing we would all prefer to avoid - Relapse!
On today's Episode Oliver and guest Sarah talk about how we gain the freedom and wisdom to make our own healthy choices through the process of working the NA program. JFT reading "Freedom to Choose."
Oliver and Guest Liv cover the AA Daily Reflection - "AA's main Tap-root" and their experiences of Step One.
Join Oliver and guest Alexis as they discuss the JFT - No matter our differences, we all belong.
In today's episode Oliver covers the Daily Reflection - A Daily Tune Up, as well as his experience working the Fourth Step.
On today's episode Oliver discusses how we can become connected with others and improve our recovery by joining a 12 step fellowship.
On today's episode Oliver asks us to consider; how willing are we to do the right thing? Unremitting Inventories.
On today's episode join Oliver and his guest and Sponsor, Timmay as they discuss the Daily Reflection from Alcoholics Anonymous.
Welcome to the first episode of The Recovery Cast, brought to you by Hills and Ranges Private. Join our host, Oliver and guest Sonia as they discuss the daily reading from the JFT: Consequences, and Sonia's career as a musician, with a preview of her recently released song "The Walls."