
The Addicted Mind Podcast
"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it.We're here to do more than just talk about addiction. We want to show you how to heal and recover.Our talks with experts and people who have beaten addiction give you important insights into how addiction affects the mind and how recovery can happen in many ways. Whether we're looking at new treatment ideas or sharing stories that inspire, "The Addicted Mind Podcast" is all about understanding the complex world of addiction recovery and showing that recovery is possible.If you or someone you care about is dealing with the challenges of addiction, let "The Addicted Mind Podcast" be your friend and guide. We aim to give you the knowledge you need, share stories that inspire you, and show you that the journey to recovery is worth it.Subscribe now to be part of a community focused on learning, healing, and changing for the better. Your journey to a healthier mind and life begins right here.
Latest episodes

Sep 13, 2023 • 53min
250: Revolutionizing Addiction Recovery with TRAC9: A Data-Driven Approach
What does a data-driven approach to addiction recovery look like? Allow Dr. Jared Dempsey and Hunter Williams, the brilliant minds behind TRAC9, to guide you through their innovative platform. Drawing from personal encounters with addiction, they've developed a solution that goes beyond conventional treatments, utilizing the power of data collection, monitoring symptoms, and scientifically validated assessments. Their work emphasizes the importance of ethics in patient data collection, creating a secure environment for individuals in recovery.TRAC9 isn't just a platform; it's a game-changer in the field of addiction treatment. By analyzing subtle changes and symptoms in patients, TRAC9 enables health professionals to tailor treatments, increasing the probability of successful recovery. Reliable data is a treasure trove of insights that could revolutionize the way we understand and treat addiction. Here, patients find a safe haven, where they can be more honest on paper than in direct communication with a provider, offering invaluable insights for treatment success rates.Using the cutting-edge fields of machine learning and habituation, TRAC9 goes beyond data collection. It creates predictive models that generate neurochemical reactions to visual triggers, helping to reduce instinctive cravings. By evaluating nine core elements of addiction and two measures of craving, TRAC9 forges a comprehensive path to recovery. Discover how this platform is making waves in the field of addiction, and how it could help you or a loved one find the way towards a sober life.In this episode, you will hear:
A data-driven approach to addiction recovery
Monitoring symptoms for addiction treatment success
Data collection's impact on addiction treatment
Understanding addiction treatment and data analysis
TRAC9 and making a difference
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.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sep 5, 2023 • 55min
249: Exploring Justice, Recovery, and Public Policy with Researcher Meghan M. O'Neil, PhD
In a society where the realms of justice, recovery, and public policy intersect in myriad ways, understanding these intersections and how they impact individuals is crucial. There are barriers, often intertwined with justice system involvement, which can pose significant challenges. For instance, minor offenses can escalate into arrest warrants, posing a significant challenge for those already grappling with recovery and housing insecurity. Join Duane in this riveting conversation with Meghan M. O’Neil PhD, Research Scholar, Drug Enforcement Policy Center, The Ohio State University, who dedicates her work to confronting racial and economic inequality's impacts on health. Duane and Meghan delve into the civil justice issues that can create substantial barriers for individuals in early recovery. Megan emphasizes the critical importance of housing in the recovery process, and the struggles faced by individuals in early recovery in securing a stable living environment. Meghan also gives a first-hand look at her groundbreaking Removing Barriers Experiment, which promises to revolutionize opioid treatment centers. Meghan's unique insights, fueled by her family's struggles with substance misuse, shed unique light on the multifaceted challenges that people in early recovery face. Her innovative approach to breaking down barriers includes the creation of online court resources for those in recovery. She shares her journey of connecting with the local recovery community, facilitating access to vital services, and fostering open communication with the court system. Leave this discussion with a profound understanding of the hurdles that individuals in recovery must overcome – from navigating an often unforgiving justice system to the struggle of securing stable housing. In this episode, you will hear:
Insights on public policy, racial and economic inequality
How Meghan’s Removing Barriers Experiment aims to address the opioid crisis
Creating online court resources for recovery
Removing barriers to recovery and re-entry
Civil justice barriers for vulnerable populations
Housing's importance in addiction recovery
Issues in the housing and justice system
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:Removing Barriers Experiment: https://meghanoneilcom.wordpress.com/removing-barriers-to-recovery/NovusMindfulLife.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 28, 2023 • 48min
248: From Pain to Pen: Gigi Langer's Empowering Journey
Get ready to be moved by the story of our remarkable guest Gigi Langer, as she takes us through her raw and insightful journey to sobriety. Gigi's story begins in the Midwest, where her self-worth was initially tied to academic achievements and later, relationships. She opens up about her struggles with alcohol and drugs, the series of consequent failures, how she ended up becoming a functioning alcoholic, and her life-changing decision to quit drinking on January 11th, 1986. Gigi didn't just stop at overcoming her addiction, she used her experiences as fuel to help others. She chronicles her transition to becoming an author, describing the initial challenge of finding a sponsor in recovery, learning to be vulnerable and honest, and the crucial role played by her mentor Jane. As you tune in, you'll get to hear about her remarkable recovery journey and the process that led her to pen her own book.However, Gigi's story of courage doesn't end there. She confronts the sexual abuse she endured as a child, recounting the healing process, the anger, and powerlessness she once felt, and her journey towards personal healing and empowerment. Through therapy, sponsors, and recovery meetings, Gigi was able to reclaim her power and establish healthier relationships. She provides a beacon of hope for those struggling with similar issues, sharing insights from her books and her own life. Get ready to be inspired by Gigi's resilience and wisdom, as you tune into this deeply personal conversation.In this episode, you will hear:
Gigi langer's journey to sobriety
Transitioning to writing a book from dark times
The journey of recovery and healing
Discovery and healing of sexual abuse
Personal healing and empowerment journey
Interview wrap-up and future connections
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.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 23, 2023 • 39min
247: Rising Above Alcohol: Courtney Collier's Story
Walking through the uncharted territories of life, we all carry our burdens and battle our demons. One such journey is that of our guest, Courtney Collier, whose teenage curiosity led him down the path of alcohol addiction. In this candid conversation, Courtney bares his soul, recounting how alcohol became more than just a social activity but rather an integral part of his life narrative. His decision to confront his addiction and transform his life is a testament to his indomitable spirit.Courtney's path to recovery was fraught with challenges and required him to make significant lifestyle changes. A significant milestone in his recovery was moving into a sober living house, an environment that provided him with the community support he needed. He shares with us how taking medication, specifically, Naltrexone, helped him manage cravings and build coping mechanisms. Yet, it wasn't just about medication; Courtney had to face his inner trauma, develop a sense of self-efficacy, and establish daily rituals to maintain sobriety. Courtney's journey didn't stop at recovery. Inspired by his own experiences, he decided to help others on their recovery journeys and became a licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor. Now, he is working towards his second master's degree in clinical mental health counseling and continues to give back to the recovery community. Courtney also shares how he uses social media to stay connected with his art and how it has become a source of motivation and inspiration in his recovery. It's never too late to rewrite your life narrative.In this episode, you will hear:
Overcoming fear, shame, and anxiety with alcohol
Courtney’s journey into addiction from drinking to IV drug use
His eventual treatment after a dramatic incident
His decision to move into a sober living house
How he worked his inner trauma and built self-efficacy
His journey to becoming a licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor
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.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 14, 2023 • 41min
246: Surviving a Deadly Train Derailment: The Story of Geralyn Ritter's Resilience and Recovery
Surviving disaster is a testament to human resilience, the will to live, and the courage to heal. Today, we welcome a truly extraordinary guest, Geralyn Ritter, whose story is an inspiring manifestation of this spirit. As an executive vice president, board director, and author of the memoir 'Bone by Bone,' she recounts her journey of survival, recovery, and acceptance after a deadly train derailment in 2015. Listen in, as Geralyn shares the profound physical and psychological impact of the accident on her life, the challenges of managing potent pain medications, and her path towards acceptance of her life-altering experience.Geralyn's story is more than just overcoming trauma; it's about finding balance and reclaiming life after the unthinkable. Our conversation delves deep into her healing journey, the frustrations she faced, and the silver linings that emerged along the way. She candidly shares her struggle to find equilibrium in life while managing her medical vulnerabilities and her newfound purpose to help other trauma survivors. This episode is not just about survival; it's about resilience, healing, and reclaiming life after a devastating trauma. Listen in and be inspired by Geralyn’s courage and determination, a compelling testament to the strength of the human spirit.In this episode, you will hear:
Surviving a deadly train derailment
Unrealistic recovery expectations and depression
The difficulty of managing both the physical pain and psychological trauma
A radical acceptance of her traumatic experience
Finding balance while managing her ongoing medical vulnerabilities
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:Bone by Bone by Geralyn Ritterhttps://www.amazon.com/Bone-Memoir-Trauma-Healing/dp/1950465551 NovusMindfulLife.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 7, 2023 • 56min
245: Decoding the Mysteries of the Brain: A Conversation with Neuroscientist Alex Korb
Ever felt like you're stuck in a downward spiral of negative thoughts and emotions? Well, you're not alone. Join us as we converse with the spectacular Alex Korb, eminent neuroscientist and author of 'The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time.' Our exchange pivots around his life-changing journey from probing the depths of neuroscience to uncovering the profound understanding of depression.You're in for a treat as Alex reveals the intricate workings of our brains, drawing an engaging comparison between tuning our minds to adjusting the volume on a speaker. Debunking the conventional belief in a one-size-fits-all treatment, Alex emphasizes the necessity of a personalized approach to mental health. Be ready to reframe your understanding of mental health as we traverse this enlightening conversation.Wrapping up our talk, Alex underlines the empowering nature of comprehending the human brain and the sheer potential of minor modifications leading to massive changes in our lives. This absorbing conversation is sure to offer a fresh perspective on mental health and equip you with practical ways to navigate it. In this episode, you will hear:
Personalized approach to mental health as opposed to a one-size-fits-all treatment
The role of minor changes in transforming our lives and creating an upward spiral of positivity
His journey from being a neuroscience student to understanding depression at a deeper level
The importance of physical activity in enhancing neuroplasticity and the sensitivity of brain circuits
Understanding the brain's function to empower oneself and instigate positive change
Exploration of how small positive changes can lead to a powerful upward spiral in our lives
The complexities of depression, and the importance of recognizing it as a biological, not moral, failing
Neuroscience as a tool to better understand and manage depression
The interaction between depression and addiction, and how understanding the brain can aid in managing both.
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:The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Timehttps://www.amazon.com/Upward-Spiral-Neuroscience-Reverse-Depression/dp/1626251207NovusMindfulLife.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 2, 2023 • 34min
244: The Transformational Power of Conscious Bravery with Pamela Brinker
Can we navigate the turbulent waters of personal loss and addiction using the compass of 'Conscious Bravery'? Meet Pamela Brinker, a psychotherapist of 32 years, who has had a firsthand experience with these channeling circumstances. Pamela generously shares her deeply moving journey marked by the tragic loss of her second husband and her son’s struggle with substance misuse. A voyage that has taught her the significance of slowing down, showing tenderness, and steering through the maelstrom with bravery.Pamela's story doesn't end there; it evolves into a powerful technique of 'Conscious Bravery'. She shares her wisdom on collaborating in addiction and practicing self-care, even in the bleakest of times. Pamela's personal and professional experiences have led her to discover the uplifting power of indirect sunlight and structured practices. Tune in as she inspires us to stay awake, alert, and embrace the power of our essence in every moment of life. As our conversation concludes, Pamela offers a unique perspective on 'Bravery in Caring for Addiction' and shares resources for anyone interested in exploring somatic practices. She introduces the idea of 'assertive surrender', the process of accepting our limitations while recognizing the power we hold to make changes. Even when things don't go as planned, Pamela encourages us to keep moving forward, find something greater to believe in, and be the healthiest we can be. Join us, and let Pamela's inspiring story of resilience, compassion, and conscious bravery guide you through life's most challenging circumstances.In this episode, you will hear:
Conscious breathing and bravery in decision-making
How she used conscious bravery to help her family cope with her husband's death and her sons' substance misuse
How to use conscious bravery to embrace self-care, lift moods, and find inner wisdom
Pamela’s experience of assertive surrender, mistakes, and conscious bravery to partner with God and make changes
Resources on somatic practices, assertive surrender, and partnering with God
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:https://pamelabrinker.com/ NovusMindfulLife.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 24, 2023 • 40min
243: The Marvel of ART Therapy and its Healing Power with Brooke Bralove
Are you shackled by the chains of a traumatic past? Meet Brooke Bralove, Licensed Clinical Social Worker who shines a light on the path towards healing, with the therapeutic technique known as Accelerated Resolution Therapy, or ART, a therapy to help with trauma stored in the brain and body. Brooke masterfully guides us through how ART aids in processing traumatic memories and emotions trapped within our minds and bodies, offering an escape from emotional pain and distress. Plunge into the transformative world of ART and learn about how this potent healing tool can help overcome trauma, panic attacks, and even chronic pain. Brooke, with her expert knowledge, explains how our body's instinctual responses to danger can be managed effectively through ART. Additionally, she explores the benefits of ART in addressing anxiety, depression, body image issues, eating disorders, and chronic illness. She delves deeper into the profound benefits of ART and walks us through how the use of images and sensations in ART can help process the physical sensations associated with trauma. She signifies the vital role ART can play in complementing existing treatments and providing a holistic healing approach. Learn the relief ART can bring, not only to clients but also to therapists, in reducing burnout, and get equipped to unleash the healing prowess of ART. In this episode, you will hear:• How ART can help process traumatic memories and feelings that are stored in our brains and bodies• How ART can be an effective tool to manage natural instinctive responses to danger• The benefits of ART therapy• The value of ART to therapists themselves, helping them ward off burnoutFollow 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.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 18, 2023 • 45min
242: Breaking Free from Eating Disorders: A Dialogue with Scarlett O'Connor
Are you ready to unravel the complexities of eating disorders? Explore the challenging journey of overcoming eating disorders as Duane sits down with Scarlett O'Connor, a London-based therapist specializing in eating disorder recovery. Scarlett shares her personal struggle with eating disorders that began at nine, starting with binge eating and then developing into anorexia. She discusses how her sense of self changed as she began to lose weight and receive positive feedback from society, and the physical and emotional toll anorexia took on her body. They dig deep into the nuts and bolts of eating disorders and their addictive nature. Scarlett shares how her disorder was ingrained in her identity and became an integral part of her life, affecting her mental and physical health. She further dives into her crisis point and the arduous decision she had to make to survive. They also discuss the crucial role of separating one's identity from their disorder and how to help someone who may be at the start of their recovery journey.In this episode, you will hear:
Navigating eating disorders and addiction and their impact on physical and mental health
Overcoming eating disorders and how to help someone in recovery
Separating the disorder from the person and how to talk to the voice of the disorder
The sectioning process for eating disorders
Supporting eating disorder recovery by focusing on the present
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.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 10, 2023 • 39min
241: Triumph Over Trauma: A Warrior's Journey of Redemption and Recovery with Nadia Davis
Every day, we put on our armor and head out into the world, often unaware of the battle some are waging within. In today's conversation, Duane sits down with Nadia Davis, a warrior whose story of redemption and recovery is nothing short of awe-inspiring. She takes us through her life story – from her struggles with addiction to her triumph over the odds, all peppered with lessons of love, courage, and the power of human resilience.This conversation between Duane and Nadia took us through the labyrinth of trauma and triggers, further cementing the astounding strength that Nadia embodies. She enlightened us with her wisdom, shedding light on how embracing our inner truth can arm us against the fears and judgments that reside within us. Nadia's insights were backed by practical techniques to nurture this perspective daily, affirming the power of choosing love over fear. She stressed the importance of gentleness towards ourselves, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, we can reach out for love.As we ventured deeper into her journey, Nadia shared her experience of writing a book about her father's heritage story and her endeavor to free a wrongfully convicted person. She used her darkest hours as a canvas, painting a picture of wisdom for those struggling. We explored her resources – her website, retreats, yoga classes, and book events, all designed to reach out and help others battling addiction. This episode with Nadia triumphs as a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of love and redemption. Join us and bear witness to the power of the human spirit.In this episode, you will hear:
Unraveling addiction and overcoming trauma
Understanding unhealthy attachments and overwhelming shame
Surviving trauma and finding inner peace
Choosing love over fear and judgment
Manifesting, yoga, and writing a book
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.comEpisode 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.