The Addicted Mind Podcast

Dr. Scott Teitelbaum, an addiction medicine leader and former pediatrician, shares his remarkable journey from addiction to redemption. He discusses the emotional toll of losing his medical license and family, highlighting how humility and the support of mentors helped him rebuild his life. Scott reflects on the paradoxes of recovery, emphasizing the need for vulnerability and teachability. He shares invaluable insights on creating supportive environments for recovery and delivers a powerful message of hope for those still struggling.

Dive into the world of rumination as hosts discuss its definition and its sneaky grip on mental health. They explore different types, like brooding and intrusive thoughts, revealing how these patterns can spiral into anxiety. Practical strategies to escape the rumination trap are offered, including embracing mindfulness and engaging in focused activities. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness and intentional reflection, turning negative loops into productive thought processes. Tune in for insights that could change how you think!

Dr. Gary Mitrevolis, a seasoned expert in addiction medicine, joins us for a critical conversation on cannabis and THC addiction, especially as we face the rising tide of high-potency THC products. With cannabis legalization expanding and THC concentrations soaring to unprecedented levels, Dr. Mitrevolis shares his extensive insights into the mental and physical health risks this trend poses. We discuss why understanding these impacts is vital for effectively addressing the evolving challenges in addiction treatment, particularly in states like California where exposure to high-THC products is more prevalent.Our exploration takes a closer look at the adolescent brain, where we uncover the troubling effects of THC on dopamine production and motivation. Chronic cannabis use during these formative years can lead to devastating consequences, including an alarming drop in IQ and an increased risk of psychosis, especially for those with a family history of mental health disorders. Dr. Mitrevolis highlights that while current data might not differentiate between THC potency levels or consumption methods, ongoing research promises deeper insights that will guide future prevention and treatment strategies.In this episode, you will hear:Exploration of rising THC potency and its implications for addiction and health.Insights from Dr. Gary Mitrevolis on the mental and physical risks of high-THC cannabis.Discussion on cannabis' impact on adolescent brain development, motivation, and IQ.Examination of cannabis legalization and potential reclassification to a Schedule III substance.Debunking myths about the safety of natural substances, highlighting cardiovascular risks.Challenges and strategies for managing cannabis withdrawal and recovery.Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Supporting Resources:Dr. Mitrevolis NovusMindfulLife.comhttps://www.theaddictedmind.com/community Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Worksheet: Your PERMA RecoveryWhat if recovery isn't just about stopping the bad stuff, but actually building something incredible?For too long, we've thought of recovery as simply not using. We white-knuckle our way through each day, fighting urges and saying no to everything that once brought us pleasure. But what happens when you've been sober for months or even years, and you're left thinking, "Is this it? Is this what recovery looks like?"In this powerful episode, hosts Duane and Eric challenge the traditional view of recovery and introduce you to something revolutionary: the science of thriving. They explore how recovery can transform from a grim process of enduring abstinence into an exciting journey of building the life you genuinely want to live.The hosts dive deep into positive psychology – the scientific study of what makes life worth living. Instead of just focusing on what's wrong with us, positive psychology asks a game-changing question: What makes a life flourishing and meaningful?You'll discover the PERMA model, developed by Dr. Martin Seligman, the father of positive psychology. This roadmap breaks down thriving into five key elements: Positive emotions (joy, gratitude, hope), Engagement (finding your flow), Relationships (authentic connections), Meaning (serving something bigger than yourself), and Accomplishment (achieving goals that matter to you).But here's what makes this episode special – it's not just theory. Duane and Eric show you exactly how to take these big concepts and break them down into tiny, manageable steps. You don't need to transform your entire life overnight. You just need to pick one element that resonates with you and take one small step this week.The episode also explores the concept of post-traumatic growth – the idea that hitting rock bottom can actually become the foundation for building something stronger. Like SpaceX learning from rocket explosions to build better spacecraft, your struggles with addiction can teach you lessons that help you create an even more meaningful life.This isn't about ignoring the hard work of staying sober. It's about shifting your focus from just running away from addiction to actively running toward a beautiful vision of your future. The hosts share insights from successful guests who have appeared on The Addicted Mind Podcast – people who don't just avoid their old destructive behaviors, but have built lives so fulfilling that those behaviors have lost their appeal entirely.Whether you're in early recovery feeling like you're just surviving, or you've been sober for years but feel stuck in a rut, this episode offers hope and practical tools. You'll learn how to identify what's missing in your recovery and take concrete steps to build it.Recovery doesn't have to be about deprivation – it can be about inspiration. Your journey isn't just about what you're leaving behind; it's about the incredible life you're building ahead.Key TopicsThe "Dry Drunk" Problem: Why stopping isn't enough and how to move beyond just surviving The PERMA Model: Five building blocks of a thriving life (Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment) Post-Traumatic Growth: How hitting rock bottom can become your foundation for building something stronger From Deprivation to Inspiration: Shifting recovery from enduring abstinence to exciting life-building Micro-Steps Strategy: How to break down big goals into tiny, manageable actions you can't fail at Beyond Traditional Recovery: Moving from fixing what's broken to building what's strongTimestamp[00:01:30] - The dangerous trap of thinking recovery is just about stopping [00:03:00] - What is the "dry drunk" phenomenon and why it happens [00:07:00] - Introduction to positive psychology and the paradigm shift [00:08:30] - Breaking down the PERMA model for thriving in recovery [00:10:30] - Understanding post-traumatic growth and learning from rock bottom [00:13:00] - Practical action steps: How to choose your focus area [00:16:30] - The mindset shift: Running toward something beautiful instead of away from addictionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Art Dielhenn's journey from directing beloved TV classics like Sister Sister and Punky Brewster to becoming an author and career coach is nothing short of remarkable. Facing his own struggles with addiction, Art found recovery and shared his insights through two humorous and insightful books, "Get Out of Your Head, It's a Mess in There" and "Addiction is a Family Disease." Join Art as he discusses how the pandemic spurred his writing endeavors, weaving humor with heavy topics to make them more approachable. With artist Clemmy McWilliam-Le Busque's lively cartoons, Art's books illustrate the chaotic yet relatable inner workings of our minds, making recovery both accessible and entertaining.Art's personal stories add depth and authenticity to the conversation, especially as he navigates the profound grief of losing a child to addiction during the pandemic. He opens up about how he found comfort and creativity through writing, illustrating how humor and shared wisdom can coexist with sorrow to aid healing. By exploring internal reconciliation and the liberation found in truth, Art underscores the universal nature of recovery, emphasizing resilience and the relentless drive to rebuild after life's challenges. In this episode, you will hear:Art Dielhenn's transformation from TV director to author and career coach, using humor to tackle recovery topics.The impact of the pandemic as a catalyst for Art's writing journey and creative expression.Art's personal experiences with grief and addiction, illustrating the healing power of humor and community.Exploration of the universal nature of recovery, focusing on resilience and rebuilding after adversity.Collaboration with artist Clemmy McWilliam-Le Busque to bring Art's vision to life through lively, humorous illustrations.The role of humor in recovery, making heavy topics more approachable and emphasizing the joy found in shared recovery experiences.Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Supporting Resources:NovusMindfulLife.comhttps://www.theaddictedmind.com/community Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmindDisclaimerSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Discover your hidden superpowers that could revolutionize your recovery journey. The hosts discuss how traditional recovery often highlights flaws, while emphasizing the importance of recognizing your unique strengths. Groundbreaking insights from positive psychology reveal 24 character strengths we all possess, like bravery and kindness. Learn how focusing on these traits can enhance well-being and shift your self-perception from brokenness to empowerment. Engage in practical exercises to identify and apply your strengths in daily life for transformative change.

In this compelling episode, host Duane Osterlind sits down with Mo Edjlali, founder of The Mindful Leader and author of the groundbreaking book "Open MBSR: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction - Reimagining the Future of Mindfulness." Mo sounds an important alarm about a rarely discussed topic in the wellness world: how guided meditations, when overused or misapplied, can actually cause harm.This conversation dives deep into Mo's personal transformation from a high-pressure tech entrepreneur to a mindfulness advocate, and his critical examination of the modern mindfulness movement. Mo doesn't shy away from controversial topics, exploring issues like power dynamics, Buddhist entanglements, rigid frameworks, spiritual materialism, and the commoditization of ancient practices.Drawing on 15 years of experience in the field, Mo offers a transformative framework rooted in open collaboration, collective wisdom, and genuine secular integrity. This is a nuanced conversation that challenges listeners to think critically about mindfulness while honoring its profound potential for healing and growth.Key TakeawaysMindfulness requires balance: The nine attitudes of mindfulness can become harmful when taken to extremes without dialectical thinkingCommunity is essential: Practicing mindfulness in isolation misses the powerful healing potential of collective practiceTransparency matters: The field needs honest conversations about Buddhist influences and commercial interestsCritical thinking strengthens practice: Questioning and debate enhance rather than diminish the mindfulness movementSmall steps create change: Even in dark moments, simple actions like making your bed can be the foundation for healingAbout Mo EdjlaliMo Edjlali is the founder of The Mindful Leader and author of "Open MBSR: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction - Reimagining the Future of Mindfulness." With a background in computer engineering and entrepreneurship, Mo discovered mindfulness during a personal crisis in 2008-2009. He has since become a leading voice for ethical, community-based approaches to mindfulness practice.Mo's organization is the largest provider of MBSR (Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction) training internationally, with 550 alumni from organizations like Headspace, Hilton, Starbucks, and Navy Federal. He pioneered online mindfulness training and created the world's first global mindfulness community center through the Meditate Together platform.ResourcesMo's Website: mindfulleader.orgBook Landing Page: openmbsr.comConnect on LinkedIn: Mo EdjlaliBook: "Open MBSR: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction - Reimagining the Future of Mindfulness" (Available on Amazon and local bookstores)Connect with The Addicted Mind PodcastWebsite: theaddictivemind.comSocial Media: Facebook, Instagram, Blue Sky, and ThreadsIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might benefit and consider leaving a rating and review to help us reach more people who need these conversations.This episode offers a rare, honest examination of both the profound benefits and potential pitfalls of mindfulness practice. Mo's willingness to challenge the status quo while maintaining deep respect for the transformative power of these ancient practices makes this a must-listen for anyone interested in authentic spiritual growth and mental health.If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery CenterNovusMindfulLife.comWe want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmindDisclaimerSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Worksheet: Stages of ChangeThis episode dives into the Stages of Change Model, a powerful tool for understanding and navigating personal growth. Hosts Duane and Eric explore the six stages: pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and relapse. They emphasize the model's humanistic approach, acknowledging that change is a non-linear journey with room for setbacks and restarts. Learn how to identify your current stage, overcome obstacles, and move towards lasting positive change.Key Topics:The six stages of the Stages of Change ModelRecognizing your current stage of changeOvercoming challenges in each stageMoving from contemplation to actionThe role of relapse in the change processApplying the model to personal growth and addiction recoveryTimestamps:Introduction (00:00-01:00)Overview of the Stages of Change Model (01:00-03:32)Deep Dive into the Six Stages (03:32-10:47)Addressing Criticisms and Benefits of the Model (10:47-12:26)Practical Applications and Resources (12:26-15:39)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Lisa Smith's family was gripped by the terror of her son's addiction, they felt like mere spectators to a relentless storm. But through her groundbreaking concept of parallel recovery, they began to reclaim their roles as active participants in the healing process. In this compelling episode, we sit down with Lisa, a TEDx speaker and author, who shares her family's transformative journey. She illuminates how families can support their loved ones suffering from addiction and mental health challenges by first addressing their own fears and recovery needs. Her insights shed light on addiction as a family disease and underscore the importance of structured recovery to create a more supportive environment.Our conversation with Lisa also navigates the vital principles of radical acceptance and compassionate boundaries in the recovery journey. She delves into the layered challenges families face, including confronting generational trauma and the systemic issues making family recovery services less accessible. We explore how stepping back from fear-driven responses can foster healthier interactions, and how setting boundaries, rather than being acts of harshness, can be deeply compassionate. Lisa’s message is clear: when families engage in recovery, they not only aid their loved ones but enrich their own lives and relationships, crafting a nurturing space for healing amidst adversity.In this episode, you will hear:The concept of parallel recovery and its impact on family dynamics in addictionLisa Smith's personal journey with her son's addiction and mental health challengesImportance of addressing addiction as a family disease and involving families in the recovery processExploration of radical acceptance and compassionate boundaries in healingChallenges families face, including generational trauma and systemic barriers to recovery servicesFollow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.Supporting Resources:TedTalk: The Power of Parallel Recovery | Lisa SmithLisa's WebsiteParallel Recovery: A Guide for Those Who Love Someone with Substance Use Disorder, TAMNovusMindfulLife.comhttps://www.theaddictedmind.com/community Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Worksheet: Your Relapse Prevention BlueprintWhat if you could stop living in constant fear of relapse and start building real confidence in your recovery?In this powerful episode of The Addicted Mind Podcast Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind reveal how to create a practical relapse prevention blueprint that transforms your recovery from a terrifying tightrope walk into a journey of empowerment and self-trust.Too many people in recovery live with that constant, low-level hum of anxiety asking "What if I mess up?" This fear doesn't protect you—it actually makes you more vulnerable by keeping you rigid, stressed, and unable to think clearly when challenges arise.The Osterlinds share a game-changing approach rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy that shifts you from reactive fear to proactive planning. Instead of hoping you'll stay strong in difficult moments, you'll have a written plan for exactly what to do when you feel most vulnerable.This episode breaks down the dangerous "all or nothing" thinking that turns a momentary slip into a complete relapse. You'll learn why the National Institute of Drug Abuse defines addiction as a "chronic relapsing disorder"—not to discourage you, but to remove the crushing shame that keeps people stuck and help you plan skillfully for real-life challenges.The hosts walk you through creating your own personalized coping cards for high-risk situations, whether that's the excited energy you feel on Friday afternoons or the moment an old friend calls to invite you out. You'll discover how to identify your unique internal and external triggers and develop specific, actionable responses for each one.Most importantly, this episode reframes relapse from a moral failure to valuable data that makes your blueprint stronger. When you approach recovery this way, you're not just surviving—you're actively managing your healing journey with compassion, wisdom, and strategic planning.Your recovery is worth planning for, and this episode gives you the tools to do exactly that.Key Topics• Creating a proactive relapse prevention blueprint instead of living in fear • Identifying your personal high-risk situations and unique triggers • Building specific coping cards with actionable strategies • Overcoming "all or nothing" thinking that turns slips into full relapses • Using your brain when it's "online" to prepare for when it's "offline" • Reframing relapse as learning data rather than moral failure • Moving from passive victim of triggers to active manager of recoveryTimestamps[00:01:00] - Introduction: The tightrope analogy and why fear-based recovery doesn't work [00:03:00] - The crushing weight of "all or nothing" thinking after a slip [00:06:00] - The proactive prevention model: Using your brain when it's online [00:09:00] - Getting practical: How to build your first blueprint component [00:12:00] - Eric's personal example: Friday afternoon triggers and planning ahead [00:15:00] - The power of grace: Why slips don't have to become full relapses [00:16:00] - Action steps and accessing the free worksheetSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.