The Addicted Mind Podcast

Embark on a powerful journey with Marci Hopkins, renowned TV host and recovery expert, as she shares the raw and transformative story of her battle with alcoholism and her road to clarity and purpose. With eight years of sobriety under her belt, Marci talks candidly about the trials of navigating a childhood mired in trauma and addiction and how the pressures of her dream job in the limelight only fueled her struggle. Her compelling narrative, chronicled on "Wake Up with Marci" and in her insightful book "Chaos to Clarity," serves as a beacon of hope, affirming that even from the depths of despair, one can rise to a life of fulfillment and joy. This episode doesn't just chronicle a story; it's an exploration of the tangible steps towards healing that many face in the anonymity of their own battles with addiction. As we discuss the critical role of the 12-step program, Marci opens up about the importance of surrender, spirituality, and gratitude in her own journey. We tackle practical matters too – the signs of a drinking problem, the dangers of an unsupervised detox, and the wealth of resources available, from online meetings to telehealth services. Most importantly, we shine a light on the crippling effect of shame and how the strength of community can dispel it, underlining the profound truth that sharing one's story can be the lifeline that someone else desperately needs.In this episode, you will hear: Struggling with drinking and seeking alternatives Transformation and healing in recovery Overcoming shame and finding support Shift in perception and acceptance Finding purpose and joy in life 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:“Chaos to Clarity” by Marci Hopkins: https://www.amazon.com/Chaos-Clarity-Seeing-Breaking-Cycles/dp/1955272115 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.

Unlock the secrets to transforming your business into a haven for employee well-being with insights from Cheryl Brown-Merriwether, a trailblazer in marrying corporate HR with addiction recovery education. As we navigate the post-pandemic world, Cheryl lays out the stark realities and innovative solutions needed to foster recovery-friendly workplaces. This episode is a beacon of hope for businesses striving to support their employees' mental health and addiction recovery journeys, featuring discussions on government and institutional advancements, as well as practical initiatives that encourage seeking help. Step into a conversation that breaks down the barriers between addiction, mental health, and professional success. With Cheryl's expertise, we examine the integral role of empathy, peer support, and HR departments in creating a work culture where recovery is not just supported but celebrated. The dialogue traverses the significance of the Surgeon General's recent framework for mental health in the workplace, offering a roadmap to navigate the complexities of these intertwined challenges. This exchange is a testament to the power of inclusive leadership in initiating a substantial shift within workplace environments to prioritize employee health. Prepare to be part of a revolutionary movement as Cheryl details the upcoming national launch of an institute designed to promote recovery-friendly workplaces. This landmark initiative aims to arm employers, particularly those leading small businesses, with the tools necessary to build supportive environments while also exploring the benefits awaiting businesses that commit to this cause. We also shine a light on the burgeoning role of recovery coaches in the workplace—not just as a source of support but as a beacon that guides individuals towards a more fulfilling professional and personal life. Join us for a journey through the heart of corporate compassion, where the well-being of each employee is the cornerstone of business success.In this episode, you will hear: Supporting workplace addiction awareness Preventing substance use disorder in workplace Responders and support for substance misuse Leadership supporting systems development Recovery-friendly workplaces made exciting and easy Creating safe and accessible hr programs Professional recovery coaches in the workplace Connecting people for support and resources 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.

There are a lot of negative consequences that can come from behavioral addictions. They include everything from financial problems to legal repercussions to health issues. Whether it’s gambling, gaming, sex, or pornography, it’s important to understand why some people are susceptible to certain behaviors. In fact, the same mechanism that influences chemical addiction could be responsible for behavioral addiction as well.On this episode, Duane speaks with Amanda Giordano, a licensed professional counselor and associate professor at the University of Georgia, who specializes in addiction counseling both in chemical addiction and behavioral addiction. Amanda is the author of a clinical reference book titled A Clinical Guide to Treating Behavioral Addictions. Today, she imparts her expertise in this field, explaining how the changes in the brain associated with behavioral addictions are actually very similar to the changes associated with chemical addictions. In other words, instead of becoming addicted to a chemical that originates outside of the body, the body is addicted to the release of its own neurochemicals (dopamine in particular). Once the brain’s reward system is activated, it releases neurotransmitters which can become very difficult for some people to abstain from as they become their primary means of regulating their emotions.Hence, for some susceptible individuals, a rewarding behavior can become an addiction where there’s a loss of control over that behavior. The behavior is continued despite negative consequences and it becomes compulsive for that individual. They experience cravings or a mental preoccupation with the behavior when they're not engaging in it. When we understand the neuroscience behind it, we can have a lot more empathy for people with addiction because we can now understand that their experience might be very different from the experience of someone who is not genetically predisposed to addiction.Amanda also talks about how to distinguish behavioral addiction from just a high involvement in the behavior by looking for the 4 C’s of addiction. In this episode, you will hear: How a rewarding behavior can become an addiction Different types of behavioral addiction Resetting the brain takes time The 4 C’s of addiction The behavior becoming the salient part of their life Proven effective methods of treatment Factors that influence the susceptibility to behavioral addiction Positive reinforcement vs. negative reinforcement The three circles technique to identify the warning signs 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.comEmail: amanda.giordano@uga.edu Amanda’s blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/contributors/amanda-l-giordano-phd-lpc  A Clinical Guide to Treating Behavioral Addictions:https://www.amazon.com/Clinical-Guide-Treating-Behavioral-Addictions/dp/0826163165Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5):https://www.amazon.com/Diagnostic-Statistical-Manual-Mental-Disorders/dp/0890425558Irresistible by Adam Alter:https://www.amazon.com/Irresistible-Addictive-Technology-Business-Keeping/dp/1594206643Episode 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.

In a world grappling with addiction, every pathway to recovery is sacred. As we navigate the tumultuous terrain of our own recovery, we find solace and strength in shared stories. Such as this journey of transformation and discovery by Dr. Michael Gordon, author of "The 12-Step Pathway: A Heroic Journey of Recovery." With insights gained from personal experience and expertise, Michael explores the power of the 12-step program and its symbiotic relationship with the concept of the hero's journey. In this episode, Duane and Michael also take a deep dive into Joseph Campbell's philosophy, unraveling the profound significance of the hero's journey in the realm of addiction recovery. Highlighting the call to adventure and the subsequent refusal of the call, they provide a comprehensive breakdown of the hero's journey, as well as discuss the courage it takes to face one's dark side and make amends, illustrating the potent parallels between the 12-step recovery process and the hero's journey.As they navigate through the intricate stages of the hero's journey and link them to the recovery process, you'll gain a deep understanding of the emotional evolution that accompanies addiction. While the journey to recovery may be arduous, it's a journey within reach for anyone. Tune in and bear witness to the universal struggle for recovery, and the hero within us all – just waiting to emerge.In this episode, you will hear: 12 steps and hero's journey Campbell’s influence on the hero’s journey The hero's journey in addiction recovery Constructing the book intuitively The importance of the 12 steps 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:Book: The 12-Step Pathway: A Heroic Journey of Recoverywww.michaelcowlgordon.com/book/the-twelve-step-pathway-a-heroic-journey-of-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.

What if the solution to America's opioid crisis is right under our noses, but fear and misinformation are keeping it out of reach? In today’s episode, Duane speaks with Dr. Arun Gupta, a primary care physician and addiction doctor, and they tackle the question head on. Dr. Gupta brings his wealth of on-the-ground experience to light the reality of addiction and the urgent need for change. From the criminalization of addiction treatment to the heart-rending impact on individuals and communities, the conversation is a crash course in the complexities of the opioid crisis. The exploration doesn't stop there, as Duane and Dr. Gupta delve into the controversial subject of Suboxone with Dr. Bickenser and Dr. Adler. They shed light on the vital role it plays in managing withdrawal symptoms and why it's so misunderstood. They also emphasize the importance of attracting more doctors to the field of addiction medicine. They also sift through the intricacies of harm reduction policies with Dr. Gupta, discussing their potential drawbacks and the importance of shifting from merely reducing harm to effective treatment. The underlying theme is clear – addiction treatment demands our attention, understanding, and urgent action.In this episode, you will hear: Exploring America's opioid crisis Addiction treatment challenges in America Federal concerns on Suboxone treatment Government lawsuit, Suboxone's benefits Drug impact on dopamine levels Harm reduction approach to addiction treatment 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.com 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.

Are you ready to challenge your preconceived notions about addiction? What if we told you that addiction is not just about behavior, but it significantly impacts one's identity? See addiction in a whole new light after listening to Duane’s conversation with Dr. Paula Hall, a highly esteemed sexual and relationship psychotherapist. Dr. Hall brings her vast experience to the table, opening up about the often stigmatized and misunderstood world of sex and porn addiction. She underscores the vital elements of compassion, courage, and commitment required to conquer this addiction. Addiction serves as an anesthetic, numbing the sting of difficult emotions. Yet it often goes overlooked in talking therapy. Getting to the core of why we develop addictive behaviors and understanding their impact can be the difference between a habit and an addiction. Dr. Hall presents the case that labeling someone an 'addict' may not be conducive to their recovery and elaborates on the complex relationship between addiction and identity. Additionally, they delve into Dr. Hall's Pivotal Recovery programme, designed to treat addiction as that numbing anesthetic. They uncover the importance of identifying core beliefs in the recovery process and explore the CHOICES model, a six-step recovery guide. They also touch upon the power of peer support in addiction treatment and the wealth of sources and support for addiction recovery. In this episode, you will hear: Sex and porn addiction treatment Challenges with traditional therapy for men Understanding therapy progress and goals Personal development for long term 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:www.pivotalrecoverypivotorecovery.org 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.

Do we truly understand substance use disorder? How can we dismantle the barriers to treatment? Join this latest episode with Duane as he interviews Susan Herrick and Dr. Arun Gupta tackle the stark realities of substance use disorder. Susan, a mother turned advocate, opens up about her son Luke's poignant battle with addiction, underscoring the heartrending struggle to access effective, science-based treatment. Dr. Gupta, contrasting Susan's narrative, brings his clinical expertise honed in India, highlighting the regulatory and educational hurdles that hinder the efforts of those battling addiction. Their stories align on one point - the desperate need for reform in this space. As we dig deeper, we uncover the shocking missteps and damaging regulations that have shaped the addiction treatment landscape. The criminalization of treatment has delayed access to vital medicines like Suboxone, stigmatizing those in dire need of help. Additionally, the unchecked rise and fall of Oxycontin – its unrestricted use igniting a peak in 2002 and 2003 – provides a chilling backdrop to today’s discussion. This episode uncovers the strength and grit of those battling substance use disorder and highlights the imperative need for effective treatment strategies, leaving us with this question: What if we could erase the stigma surrounding addiction?In this episode, you will hear: Substance use disorder and treatment barriers Implications of regulations on suboxone treatment Stigma's impact on addiction treatment Strategies for addiction treatment and support Expressing gratitude and encouraging interaction 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:Slow Dancing with the Devilhttps://www.amazon.com/Slow-Dancing-Devil-Substance-Disorder/dp/1476693897 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.

When you're grappling with life's toughest struggles, it can be incredibly hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Our guest, Halima Anderson, knows this all too well. As a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), Halima faced the challenges of alcohol addiction and survived an abusive relationship. Yet, through these trials, she discovered her true self and the strength within. Her candid narration of her personal journey serves not just as inspiration, but as a beacon for anyone out there enduring similar hardships. Halima's story sheds light on the complexities of emotional experiences, underscoring the concept that no two people feel emotions the same way. Touching upon the hardship of being in an abusive relationship, she stresses the importance of reaching out for help and finding a supportive community that understands your struggles. Halima beautifully articulates the relief and comfort that come from being understood and supported, from recognizing your need for help and connecting with those who can provide it. Halima’s path to self-discovery didn’t stop at overcoming abuse and alcohol addiction. She also found herself recognizing her HSP trait, understanding its impact on her life, and learning to navigate her sensitivities. Her experience underscores the importance of building supportive relationships, accepting change, and prioritizing self-care. Halima’s resilience, her determination to find the resources she needed, and her ability to appreciate those who recognize and accept her sensitivities is truly inspiring. Join us as we take a deep dive into Halima's transformational journey, a testament to the power of self-awareness and support.In this episode, you will hear: Halima's journey as highly sensitive Embracing differences and finding support Finding self-awareness and overcoming abuse The power of intuition and the importance of self-care How to access the right people and resources for difficult situations 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.

Are you hesitant to confront the unseen impacts of sexual trauma? Are you unsure about how to navigate sexual health and reclaim your pleasure? Armed with insights from Dr. Holly Richmond, a somatic psychotherapist, licensed marriage and family therapist, and certified sex therapist, we venture into an enlightening journey of discovery and healing.Together with Dr. Richmond, we demystify the profound effects of sexual trauma and the addictive processes birthed from it. We navigate through the twists and turns of somatic psychotherapy, shedding light on how this body-informed therapeutic approach is instrumental in regulating the nervous system and reclaiming sexual health. Looking through the lens of Dr. Richmond's book, 'Reclaiming Pleasure', we explore somatic and psychological factors integral to survivors' erotic recovery, and the compulsive sexual behaviors employed by survivors to mitigate their trauma.Bringing Dr. Richmond's wisdom to the fore, we conclude our conversation with a powerful segment on healing and reclaiming pleasure from sexual trauma. We explore the significance of fostering safe spaces, establishing boundaries, and reconnecting with the body. Our conversation also underscores the paramount role of two-way communication in trauma recovery, and the survivors' journey in a world that often sidelines those with traumatic histories. Join us for this vital conversation that promises to enlighten and guide you in your own journey of self-discovery and wellness.In this episode, you will hear: Recovering sexual health after trauma Trauma, compulsivity, and sexual behaviors Healing from sexual trauma and reclaiming pleasure Holly's wisdom and hope 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.

Have you ever wondered how a person can turn adversity into triumph, and then use their victory to uplift others? Today’s today, Randall Bowman, has an incredible story of resilience that you cannot miss. An Indigenous business owner, woodworker, and a living testament to the power of recovery, Randall takes us on a journey from his near-fatal car accident and addiction battles to his awe-inspiring recovery.From a tender age, Randall grappled with substance abuse as a way to manage anxiety. He shares his struggles with drugs and alcohol and the traumatic experiences that led him to heroin and methamphetamine. His story takes a turn when he finds himself fighting for the custody of his son. The pain of failing to win his son back pushes him further into addiction. However, his resilience is apparent when he decides to seek help and turn his life around. His story could change your perspective about addiction and recovery.In this episode, you will hear: Resilience and recovery Struggles with substance abuse and recovery Overcoming addiction and life-changing accidents Overcoming addiction and helping others: the importance of medication, therapy, and support 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.