Ep. 276: Breaking Free from Substance Abuse – A Parent’s Journey to Recovery

What happens when a parent, once strong and accomplished, finds themselves trapped in addiction? In this compelling episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker speaks with Nick Padlo, founder of Sophros Recovery in Tampa. A former combat veteran and addiction survivor, Nick shares how his journey through military service and personal struggle led him to create a treatment center focused on holistic healing for individuals facing both substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges.

Together, they explore:

• Why traditional recovery approaches sometimes fall short
  

• How mindfulness and comprehensive care can change lives
  

• What busy parents need to know about recognizing addiction
  

• How recovery is possible—even while navigating the pressures of parenting
  

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The emotional toll of addiction on parents and families
  

• The neuroscience behind substance use and mental health
  

• Why community, structure, and internal healing are key to lasting sobriety
  

• Practical steps for seeking help and beginning the recovery journey

  
  

  
  

  Nick Padlo is the founder of Sophros Recovery, a Tampa-based treatment center offering holistic care for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders. A former U.S. Army combat veteran and successful executive, Nick’s personal recovery story shaped his mission to help others find sustainable healing. His work emphasizes mindfulness, evidence-based therapies, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of veterans and high-performing individuals seeking recovery.

Sophros Recovery → https://sophrosrecoverytampa.com

Join our new parenting community for free and explore coaching options with Dr. Meg Meeker → meekerparenting.com

Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: The Hidden Struggles of Parenting

00:40 – Meet Nick Padlo: From military leadership to recovery advocate 01:53 – Nick’s personal journey through trauma, addiction, and recovery 05:40 – Alcohol and emotional suppression: Understanding the trap 08:26 – The neuroscience of addiction and the mind-body connection 10:20 – Self-care as a foundation for recovery

14:07 – Identifying the signs of substance use in parents

15:35 – Overcoming stigma and asking for help

18:05 – Understanding the stages of change in recovery

18:32 – Motivation, mindfulness, and internal transformation

19:58 – Alcohol’s ripple effects on families and children

20:39 – Effective recovery tools: Meditation, therapy, and support

26:00 – The power of community and connection in healing

28:23 – Navigating daily life while maintaining sobriety

33:38 – Nick’s reflections and hope for parents in recovery

36:28 – Final thoughts from Dr. Meg and Nick Padlo

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