The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast

Andy Ramage, a guide to living an alcohol-free life, shares his expertise on helping moderate drinkers. They discuss the importance of a morning routine, rediscovering one's authentic self, understanding willpower, life after solving the alcohol problem, and the concept of the 'dry up' as a positive space for alcohol-free individuals.

Today my guest is Author, Speaker and Recovery Advocate Melissa Bond. Simon & Shchuster sent me a galley copy of her new book “Blood Orange Night: My Journey to The Edge of Madness” and I have to say, I was riveted from page one. I was introduced to a world I knew little about which is insomnia paired with a benzodiazepine addiction.    I confess that I don’t normally talk to people who are not practicing abstinence, and frankly I didn’t know if I would even publish this episode, but I’m so glad that I am. Melissa educated me not only on the nuance of benzo usage, but the appropriate terminology to describe this specific substance use disorder. We also discuss the dangers of unsupervised detox from these substances and the protocols and professional support required to get off of them.   But before we jump in, I’m ridiculously excited to share with you that I have finally found an editor for my new book coming out this fall. The working title is:  “How to Quit Drinking: A 12 Step Exploration Guide: Overcome Barriers to Entry and Clarify Misconceptions to Access a Transformational Program for an Alcohol-Free Life”   Since I started the podcast in 2016, I was exposed to entire communities of people who have had reservations about the 12 step program for a variety of reasons. I gotta say, I was shocked to hear that so many people had such strong negative feelings about a program that I absolutely loved. It made me wonder, what is the difference between their experiences and mine? What were the specific reasons why they haven't tried it, or if they did try it why did they leave? I have heard things like “It’s a religious program, or I am not sure I’m an alcoholic, I am not powerless, and it’s a cult.” just to name a few.   This book is an attempt to identify the reasons, share context and perspectives that will clear up misconceptions. My hope is this will allow people to overcome common barriers to entry so that they can complete the 12 steps and live life alcohol free.  As my gift to you, you can download the first chapter for free by visiting 12stepexplorationguide.com    I’m still in the process of editing it, so if you have ideas of what should be included, there is still time to make your voice heard! Just hit reply to the email when you download the first chapter and let me know what you think!   So without further ado, please enjoy this very enlightening episode, with Melissa.   Connect with Melissa here: Visit Website: https://www.melissaabond.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissabauthor/   Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/30g6ALF   Spotify https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   Amazon Music      Watch Full Episodes on YouTube! https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo  

Today my guest is Brad Orsted, an award-winning wildlife and conservation filmmaker/photographer, author, speaker and wilderness therapy instructor. Brad’s work has appeared on Nat Geo Wild, The BBC, PBS, Nature, The Washington Post and Smithsonian Channel. Brad’s most recent film, “The Beast of Our Time: Grizzly Bears and Climate Change” is narrated by none other than Jeff Bridges. The film recently won Best Environmental Film Award at the Los Angeles Film Festival. We will be discussing his new memoir, “Through the Wilderness: My Journey of Redemption and Healing in the American Wild”, available now wherever books are sold. But before we jump in, I’m excited to share that I have made a lot of progress on my book “How to Quit Drinking, A 12 Step Exploration Guide. Overcome barriers to entry, Clarify Misconceptions and access a process of transformation for an alcohol-free life”.    The first chapter is available now as my gift to you, just visit 12stepexplorationguide.com, enter your email address and it will be automatically delivered to your inbox!    The purpose of this book is to share everything I wish I could say to someone who wants to break free of their addiction and is thinking about giving the 12 steps a shot. My goal is to help alleviate fears around attending meetings and clear up some common misconceptions, which there are many.    But this isn’t book isn’t about invalidating anyone’s negative experiences, in fact it’s my attempt to validate them and offer a safe path through the process in order to help people who want to quit drinking and live alcohol free.   As the book progresses, I will be sharing some of the suggestions and practical strategies from additional chapters. My goal is to provide the information to the people who need it now because the book is still going to take some time to complete. If you need support now, and you’re either not ready to try 12 step or want to, you can always work with me directly through my private coaching program. I utilize both hypnosis and compassionate recovery coaching to help you reach your goals. Just visit soberlifeschool.com to book a strategy call with me.   And if you haven’t signed up for the weekly newsletter with additional resources I find on the interwebs, you can find it on the soberlifeschool.com website as well. So that’s it for the intro today. Please enjoy this episode with Brad.   Connect with  here: Visit Website: https://www.bradleyorsted.com/ Follow on Instagram: @brad_orsted Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/30g6ALF   Spotify https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   Amazon Music      Watch Full Episodes on YouTube! https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo  

Today my guest is someone who has been on the very prestigious New York Times Best Seller list, not once, twice or three times but FOUR times for non fiction books! Truly an incredible achievement. She was the ghost writer for two of the most spiritual luminaries of our time, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and The Dali Lama. She also wrote the life story for Anthony Ray Hinton called The Sun Does Shine that was chosen for Oprah’s book club in 2018.  Her name is Lara Love Hardin and her newest book “The Many Lives of Mama Love” was SO good, I absolutely devoured it in about 2 days. I can’t wait for you to meet her!     But before we jump in, I want to share an experience I had recently. I went paddle boarding with a friend who is also in recovery and you know how we are, small talk isn’t a thing so as we were getting into it, I was telling her about some of the guests I had on recently that were relevant to what she was sharing. She was like, Oh I have to get back to the podcast because some of the topics weren’t really connecting to anything I was going through. So that got me thinking, I wonder what topics I could include for future episodes? What are YOU struggling with and what topics do YOU want to hear about? You can let me know by sending me a message on IG @arlinaallen or @odaatpodcast, the FB page called The One Day At A Time Podcast or shoot me an email at arlina@odaatchat.com.   Also don’t forget I have a couple of free guides for you. One is the ultimate sobriety checklist that you can download when you visit soberlifeschool.com, and there’s also a resource guide, aptly named “100 resources for your first 100 days” on that same website.   And as always, If you are enjoying the podcast then please share this episode with your friends in recovery. It’s an easy act of service that supports the show and your friends.   That’s it for announcements, please enjoy this episode with the super talented Lara Love Hardin.   Connect with Lara here: Visit Website: https://www.laralovehardin.com/ Follow on Instagram: @laralovehardin   Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/30g6ALF   Spotify https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   Amazon Music      Watch Full Episodes on YouTube! https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo

Today my guest Jeannine Lindgren, host of the Chasing Heroine Podcast. She was on a few weeks ago, but we had so much and she has so many relatable stories I just had to invite her back!     But before we jump in, I’m going to offer some resources to help you on your recovery journey. So first, if you are a woman and would like to join my free private women’s group on facebook, just do a search for “The one day at a time private women’s group”. I post other podcasts I listen to in there along with inspirational cards, workshops, and it’s just a nice place to connect with other supportive women.   Another resource I offer is a free pdf called “100 resources for your first 100 days”. There are SO many sober podcasts, books and online support groups available at zero cost and I have put some of my favorites in a list for you so you don’t have to go hunting for them. You can download it by visiting soberlifeschool.com which is my main website. It acts as a hub for the podcast, coaching, classes and you can even book a free 30 minute strategy call if you’d just like some help putting a sobriety plan together. It’s my gift to you!   I often think about you, my friends who listen to all the episodes and leave reviews. I wonder if you even realize how important you are. By taking in information that expands your heart and mind, you are having an important impact on everyone around you. And by sharing episodes and leaving reviews, you are helping others too. Maybe it’s a Mom or Dad who is struggling to be a good parent. Maybe it’s someone who feels lost and alone. You never know who you might be helping just by showing up and doing the work. So I want to take a moment to say thank you. You are stronger than you know and I’m so grateful we are walking this journey together.   And now, please enjoy this conversation with Jeannine!   Connect with  here: Visit Website:  Follow on Instagram:    Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/30g6ALF   Spotify https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   Amazon Music      Watch Full Episodes on YouTube! https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo  

Today we have a returning guest, Ted Perkins. Former Hollywood film producer and author. The first time he joined me on the podcast, we talked about his amazing story of recovery and his book, “Addicted in Film: Movies we love about the habits we hate”. We talked a lot about the power of storytelling and how we can use movies to connect with wisdom that comes from witnessing others transform.   In this episode we’re talking about the new companion workbook called “Recovery Movie Meet-ups”. It’s backed by the co-founders of SMART Recovery, Harvard Psychiatry Professors and many well respected thought leaders in the addiction recovery space. We will go into detail about how to use the workbook to facilitate group activities and discussions.   But before we jump in, I am pleased to announce the next session of my signature class "Reinvent," a six-week self-esteem class for women that will begin on July 25th. The class is based on the premise that we only allow into our lives what we believe we deserve on a subconscious level. We will use neural plasticity, manifestation techniques, and hypnosis to remove blocks and help you take action that is aligned with your authentic self. The class will help you identify internal blocks that are keeping you feeling stuck and break out of negative behavior patterns. The truth is that you are more powerful than you realize, and I will help you tap into that power so you can create the life you want. To register, just visit selfesteemcourse.com and if you register by July 21, you can bring a friend for free!   So that’s it for announcements, and without further delay, please enjoy this episode with Ted   Connect with Ted here: Visit Website: https://www.recoverymoviemeetups.com/   Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/30g6ALF   Spotify https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   Amazon Music      Watch Full Episodes on YouTube! https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo  

Today I’m chatting with Britt Frank. She is an author,  licensed neuropsychotherapist and trauma expert who is trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems) and SE (Somatic Experiencing). In addition to her private practice, Britt is also a speaker and an award-winning adjunct instructor at the University of Kansas, where she’s taught classes on ethics, addiction, and clinical social work. She really has so much to share, I know you’re going to walk away with tools you can use today.   But before we jump in, I have some resources for you. First, if you go to soberlifeschool.com, you will see links to my 6 week self esteem class called “Reinvent”. It’s a small group coaching class for women that’s starting soon, where we do a short hypnosis session to rewire your subconscious mind for high self esteem, we use manifestation techniques like visualization, and self care practices to help you actualize your highest authentic self. It’s an amazing class and the transformations are incredible! And if you sign up by next Friday, you can bring a friend for free!   The second resource on my website is a free strategy call with me. If you are struggling with overcoming addiction, relationship challenges or self sabotaging behaviors, I can help you create a unique plan to help you reach your goals. There is a link to my calendar where you can request a call so that we can find resources to fit your specific situation.   And as always, if you find these resources helpful, the best way to support the podcast is by leaving a 5 star review on Apple Podcasts and subscribing on YouTube. So without further delay, please enjoy this episode with Britt!   Connect with Britt here: Visit Website: https://www.scienceofstuck.com/ Follow on Instagram:    Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/30g6ALF   Spotify https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   Amazon Music      Watch Full Episodes on YouTube! https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo  

This episode is going to be a little different than others in the sense that we’ll be talking about highly controversial, but also profoundly effective methods of treating addiction, specifically the clinical use of psychedelic assisted therapy. I’ve been researching this topic for a few years now and the case studies from clinical trials, the MAPS organization, documentaries like “How to change your mind” and scientific based podcasts like Huberman Lab are overwhelmingly positive.    That is not to say it’s a cure all or a solution for everyone. As a disclaimer, I am not a doctor and I don’t play one on the internet. None of this content should be construed as medical advice or be construed as a recommendation to use any of the substances mentioned in this episode. There are physical, psychological, and sometimes legal risks with such usage. Please consult your doctor before considering anything we discuss in this conversation.    I realize this topic might be upsetting to some, but I’m going to ask you to suspend judgment until you gather all the evidence from multiple sources. I think we’re in a critical time of evolution in the addiction recovery space. If you consider how controversial prozac was when it came out 30 years ago, and how far we’ve come in understanding that it has a place, I think in time, attitudes will be generally more accepting of psychedelic assisted therapies.    If you are in a 12 step program, I urge you to research AA.org and look for the pamphlet titled “P-11 The A.A. Member—Medications and Other Drugs” for guidance.   My guest today for this important topic is Dr Steven Radowitz. He is the Chief Medical Officer at Nushama and also runs the primary care program at Goldman Sachs. He completed his M.D. at Chicago Medical School and worked at St. Vincent’s as Medical Director of the inpatient alcohol and opiate detox and treatment unit.   Dr. Radowitz’s focus is getting to the underlying source before it manifests as “dis-ease,” a misalignment of mind, body, and spirit. He believes psychedelics are a powerful tool to discover the origin of imbalance. On a spiritual journey with Kabbalah, he also studies meditation and yoga. At Nushama, he leads one of the most experienced teams in psychedelic medicine. But before we jump in, I would like to remind all of my listeners that if you feel like something is missing and find yourself wanting to go deeper into your healing journey, I’m here to help! You can actually book a free strategy call with me to find out how coaching and hypnosis work to help you break free from self sabotaging behaviors and stubborn habits. Just go to odaatchat.com where you can schedule a call with me today! There are also a lot of free resources, show notes, and a large catalog of nearly 300 episodes.    And if you enjoy listening to the podcast then please, go to Apple Podcasts and leave a 5 star rating and review. I read every single one! It’s an easy way to show your support and it really means the world to me.    That’s all the preamble I have, thank you for hanging in there! Please enjoy this episode with Dr Steven Radowitz   Connect with Dr Radowitz here: https://nushama.com/   Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/30g6ALF   Spotify https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   Amazon Music      Watch Full Episodes on YouTube! https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo  

Today we have a returning guest, Licensed Psychotherapist, Addiction specialist and author, Dr Donna Marks. She has been in practice for over 30 years and has helped millions of people world wide. We’ll be talking about her new book “The Healing Moment: 7 Paths to Turn Messes into Miracles of Love”. I got an advance reader copy, which I LOVE. Also, I tried to hit all 7 paths which are: The Voice of Love Control Trust Forgiveness Respect Abundance Self-love We go deeper into some topics more than others, but this is only an hour-long podcast, so I highly recommend you get the book. Dr Marks draws on her own experiences but also A Course In Miracles,  a book that had a HUGE impact on my life when I first got sober nearly 30 years ago.   But before we jump in, I would like to remind all of my listeners that if you feel like something is missing and find yourself wanting to go deeper into your healing journey, I’m here to help! You can actually book a free strategy call with me to find out how coaching and hypnosis work to help you break free from self sabotaging behaviors and stubborn habits. Just go to odaatchat.com where you can schedule a call with me today! There are also a lot of free resources, show notes, and a large catalog of nearly 300 episodes.    And if you enjoy listening to the podcast then please, go to iTunes and leave us a 5 star rating and review. I read every single one! It’s the best way to show your support and it really means the world to me. And in case you didn’t know we also have a YouTube channel in case you’re curious what our guests look like! So that’s fun! anyway… without further delay, please enjoy this episode with Dr. Donna Marks   Connect with  here: Visit Website:  Follow on Instagram:    Watch on YouTube: ​​https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNuRolkOZ7X8fCEFCDYd5tg Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   https://apple.co/30g6ALF   https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   https://bit.ly/3n0taNQ     Watch Full Episodes!   https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo  

Today my guest is Dr Allen Berger who is making his return to talk about his book “12 Stupid Things That Mess Up Recovery: Avoiding Relapse through Self-Awareness and Right Action.” We were actually able to get through all 12 things!   I just wanted to add how much I admire Dr. Berger. He was right in the middle of a very painful experience and he handled it with such grace and courage. You are going to hear him process some of his grief in real time, in a very real and vulnerable way. I was so impressed with his ability to stay with his feelings without shame or distraction.  So without further delay, Please enjoy this episode with Dr Allen Berger   Connect with Dr Berger here: Visit Website: https://abphd.com/   Watch on YouTube: ​​https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNuRolkOZ7X8fCEFCDYd5tg Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes!   Listen On:   https://apple.co/30g6ALF   https://odaatchat.libsyn.com/spotify   https://bit.ly/3n0taNQ     Watch Full Episodes!   https://bit.ly/2UpR5Lo