The Point is Recovery Podcast
Turning Point of Tampa
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Discussions about addiction, eating disorders, mental health and recovery. We talk with people in recovery, advocates working to break the stigma of addiction & mental health and the people working on the front lines in the behavioral health field.
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Sep 28, 2022
E38: Bonus Episode w/ The Crew
Please enjoy this Bonus Episode with the entire crew of The Point is Recovery Podcast:
* Joan Browne - Producer
* Ashley Neal - Host & Writer
* Chris Nasuti - Co-Host
* Jeremiah Fowler - Sound Engineer
The Crew will be taking a creative break and we hope to be back with you real soon with new guests and the same important information. We are so grateful to have had this opportunity to share stories of hope for recovery with you.
Even though National Recovery Month is almost over, you can still celebrate recovery year round. We hope you will listen to episodes you may have missed - there are some really great moments that we won't soon forget.
Faces and Voices of Recovery - National Recovery Month
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Sep 14, 2022
E37: Looking Forward, Learning Backward w/ Comedian Alonzo Bodden
September is National Recovery Month AND this year marks the two year anniversary of The Point is Recovery Podcast! Thank you to everyone who has listened, subscribed and shared - your support is what made this podcast the success that it is. We truly appreciate YOU!
For episode 37 we are joined by comedian and person in long term recovery, Alonzo Bodden. His first big comedy break came when he was on the “New Faces of Comedy” showcase at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal, but it was as the season three winner of NBCʼs Last Comic Standing, where he was first introduced to America. Since then, Alonzo has starred in two comedy specials for Showtime, he’s made appearances on shows like Fresh Off the Boat, Dr. Phil, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Late Night with Conan O’Brien, just to name a few.
Alonzo is also a car and motorcycle aficionado, having hosted Speed Channel’s 101 Cars You Must Drive and joining Jay Leno for several off-road trips on his CNBC series Jay Leno’s Garage. In 2018, he released his fifth comedy CD titled Man Overboard, and currently hosts the podcast Who's Paying Attention, where he gives his unique take on what's going on in the world.
If you live in the Tampa Bay area you may have seen Alonzo at Side Splitters Comedy Club or on stage for Turning Point of Tampa's Comedy Intervention IX this past March. Alonzo has been making audiences laugh for over 20 years, which he says beats honest work. LOL. If you like what you hear during this episode, you can see Alonzo live in Tampa in November or right now on YouTube for his new special, Stupid Don't Get Tired. Check the Show Notes for more information.
New Faces of Comedy
http://www.yukaholics.org
Alonzo's New Comedy Special - Stupid Don't Get Tired on YouTube
Alonzo @ Side Splitters Comedy Club, Tampa
Cocaine Anonymous (CA)
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Aug 24, 2022
E36: Documenting Recovery w/ Producer Greg Williams
Greg Williams is a person in long term recovery. Early on in his journey he witnessed challenges w/ others finding and sustaining recovery and became frustrated with people not looking at the real problems and issues, but rather making a lot of excuses. While in film school, Greg learned that in order to make a good documentary you needed access to unique subject matter. It was out of his access to positive, solution oriented stories that his passion for making documentaries about recovery was born.
Greg has spent his career highlighting addiction recovery stories through a series of projects, including documentaries, concerts and live events. He produced the documentaries The Anonymous People, Generation Found and most recently, Tipping the Pain Scale alongside the immensely talented, Jeff Reilly.
On this episode of the podcast, we talk with Greg about all of his projects and we get his perspective on the community response to the addiction crisis. Greg has been a part of some groundbreaking events focused on ending the stigma of addiction and has documented the courageous people who use their personal stories to participate in the democratic process and effectively change the public opinion about addiction.
**Turning Point of Tampa and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation are co-hosting a screening of Tipping the Pain Scale in celebration of National Recovery Month. Please check the show notes for more information on that exciting event**
Tipping the Pain Scale
Watch the Trailer - Tipping the Pain Scale
Watch the Trailer - The Anonymous People
Watch the Trailer - Generation Found
High Watch Media
Global Exchange 2022
Victory High School
Narcan
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Jul 13, 2022
E35: The Bright Side of Addiction is Recovery w/ Neil Scott
Our guest for Episode 35 has dedicated most of his career to getting out a very important message - Addiction is a chronically relapsing brain disease, but with treatment and support, recovery is possible!
Neil Scott began his career in the addiction field as the Executive Director of the Santa Barbara chapter of the National Council on Alcoholism (NCA), and at that time he had no idea how closely linked to Alcoholism he actually was. Shockingly, Neil learned that not only did his father die from complications of Alcoholism, but his mother, too, was a practicing alcoholic. Later on in his career, Neil became the Executive Director of the National Foundation for Alcoholism Communications, co-founder of Alcoholism & Addiction Magazine and editor of The Alcoholism Report.
For the last 15 years, Neil has hosted America’s top authorities on addiction and recovery as they share their experience, strength and hope on the national podcast, Recovery Coast to Coast. Neil starts every episode of the podcast by saying "The Bright Side of Addiction is Recovery" in an effort to end the stigma associated with addiction and shine a light on recovery!
Recovery Coast to Coast
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
Marty Mann
Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families (ACA)
Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
Suicide Prevention Information
National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) Advocacy
NAATP Digital Addiction
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Jun 15, 2022
E34: Surviving 9/11 and Addiction w/ Kayla Bergeron
**Listener Note** This episode contains a discussion of traumatic events. If you believe you are experiencing PTSD, please consult with your doctor or a mental health professional. If you are having thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that is triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. According to the National Center for PTSD, about 6 out of every 100 people will experience PTSD in their lifetime and the number of women impacted is higher than that of men by 50%.
The effects of trauma can be debilitating and may lead to symptoms like to self-destructive behavior, severe emotional distress, excessive drinking or use of addictive substances, angry outbursts and feeling detached from family and friends.
Today's guest, Kayla Bergeron, worked as the Director of Public Affairs for The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey on September 11, 2001. Kayla narrowly escaped the collapse of the North Tower down the only passable stairwell. During the immediate aftermath, Kayla was tasked with setting up systems to communicate with the families of people who were alive, missing and deceased and she did this with the help of PIO's (Public Information Officers - individuals responsible for communicating with the public and the media with incident related information).
Years later, Kayla recognized she was suffering from the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and eventually found sobriety. Today she works in the recovery field, is a presenter for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, sharing about her 9/11 experience and recovery journey and is a mental health advocate for ending the stigma of addiction and mental health.
National Center for PTSD
www.theconnectionforsyth.org
Recovery Community Organization (RCO) Information
Equine Therapy
NAMI
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Apr 13, 2022
E33: Sidelined by Alcoholism, Slam-Dunking Recovery w/ Nikki Soda
Today's guest was an elite athlete from a middle-class family with no history of abuse. She grew up sheltered, but later learned that blackout drinking brought out a side of her that everyone around her relished. It was at this point that Nikki Soda started down a path to alcoholism.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism, Alcohol-induced blackouts can lead to impaired memory of events that transpired while intoxicated and because blackouts tend to occur at high Blood Alcohol Concentrations, they commonly stem from binge drinking. According to a 2019 study of 18-22 year-olds, 28% of the people in this age group who are not enrolled in college and 33% of full-time college students in this age group reported binge drinking behaviors.
In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month, Nikki shares her experience with alcohol use as well as her path to recovery. Nikki gets to share the hope for recovery across the country in her work with the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) and in her pursuit of a Masters Degree in Addiction Policy and Practice at Georgetown University. In the 18 years since she went to treatment, Nikki has built a life that is beyond her wildest dreams and we are grateful to witness her transformation.
www.naatp.org
Addiction Policy & Practice @ Georgetown University
Alcoholics Anonymous
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Mar 16, 2022
E32: From Drug Dealer to Recovery Champion w/ Leonard Buschel
Our guest for Episode 32 had a rough start in life. Born with a heart defect and debilitating asthma, Leonard lost his father to a heart attack when he was just 3 weeks old. He grew up fast in Logan, PA, learning about being a man from the guys who hung out on the corner. His only real sense of stability was the home that he lived in for 20 years. He never really felt a sense of confidence until he started selling dope and then he felt like “the man” because he had the good stuff that everyone wanted.
Leonard's first dabble with addictive behavior began with a pound of sunflower seeds and an upset stomach inside a movie theatre. Ironically, the last he used ended almost the same way, but this time he found himself sick and sweaty inside a phone booth in California. After a stint in rehab at the Betty Ford Center, Leonard emerged having lost the desire to use drugs and eventually, the desire to use alcohol as well. He has been sober ever since.
Today, Leonard Lee Buschel is a California Certified Substance Abuse Counselor, the founder of Writers In Treatment, director of the REEL Recovery Film Festival & Symposium® and the editor/publisher of the weekly Addiction/Recovery eBulletin®. He also directs and produces the annual Experience, Strength and Hope Awards® in Los Angeles. Leonard’s memoir, HIGH: Confessions of A Cannabis Addict, was published in 2021 and is about his journey from drug dealer to drug counselor.
Alcoholics Anonymous
Narcotics Anonymous
Overeaters Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous
HIGH: Confessions of a Cannabis Addict
Addiction Recovery EBulletin
REEL Recovery Film Festival
Comedy Intervention IX
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Feb 23, 2022
E31: The Doctor Whisperer w/ Sharon Fekete
***Listener note*** This episode contains discussions about suicide and suicidal ideation. If you are having thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255
Our guest for Episode 31 is Sharon Fekete, Founder of The Doctor Whisperer & 13th Ave Media. She has been whispering strategies to physicians for over 20 years & amplifies businesses through the power of social media. Sharon also speaks at medical conferences on topics such as hospitality in healthcare, hiring a dream team, and branding.
As a firm believer in advocating toward improved mental health, Sharon published her book, The Broken Road to Mental Health, in Life & in Business, on her 25th sober anniversary. Her personal struggle with depression and thoughts of suicide were the impetus to writing her book, as she knew there were many people suffering in the business community who could relate.
Sharon also speaks to corporations about mental health in the workplace & includes her own previous struggles with addiction, depression and the journey to overcoming adversity.
Sharon hosts two podcasts, The Doctor Whisperer & The Broken Road to Mental Health. Sharon is a wife, stepmom, fur baby mom, and avid bike rider who often says “We are all under construction.”
Sharon is quite witty and very grateful for all of her life experience, which she expertly weaves into her work with doctors. We hope you enjoy the episode.
*Episode Resources*
The Doctor Whisperer
Sharon's Book
Al-Anon
Crisis Center of Tampa Bay
NAMI
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
SAMHSA
Susie Steiner Award from Hillsborough Community College
Comedy Intervention IX
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Feb 9, 2022
E30: Grieving Father Changes the Conversation on Addiction & Recovery w/ Mike Ortoll
Mike Ortoll's world was turned upside down when his daughter Christine started abusing drugs and alcohol. Christine found recovery for several years, but sadly suffered a relapse and passed away from a fentanyl overdose in late 2020. In grieving his daughter, Mike started to think about how he could share his experience with other families facing addiction. Through a series of high-profile documentary films, including the Bowden Dynasty Film and another film documenting Christine’s story, Mike and a few of his Sigma Chi Fraternity Brothers are now providing support to the Collegiate Recovery Program at Florida State University (FSU), called LIFT. Mike also started the Christine Ortoll Recovery Organization to raise awareness, share resources, and lead a national “call to action” across the country of changing the conversation about addiction and recovery.
The CDC has reported that more than 100,000 Americans died of a drug overdose in a 12 month period from 2020 to 2021, and many of those deaths have been attributed to Fentanyl. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine. Fentanyl is often times added to heroin to increase its potency, or to be disguised as highly potent heroin. Many users believe they are purchasing heroin and don’t know that they are actually purchasing fentanyl – which often results in overdose deaths.
Christine Ortoll Recovery Organization
Association of Recovery in Higher Education
LIFT at Florida State University (FSU)
Center for Health Advocacy Wellness at FSU
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
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Jan 19, 2022
E29: Getting "REAL" about Sober Living w/ Patrick Slattery
If you are familiar with recovery, you know it is suggested that you change a few things in order to protect your sobriety: people, places and things. And by places they mean you might have to find a new place to live! When we were using, many of us found ourselves homeless, couch surfing or not welcome back to the place we had once called home.
Sober living has become an integral part of the recovery journey for countless people who are in need of a safe, sober and supportive living environment. The guest on today's podcast is Patrick Slattery, the owner/operator of Real Recovery Sober Living. Patrick had an interesting experience with finding a place to live in the early days of his own recovery and now operates a sober residence where he once lived. Talk about life coming full circle!
Real Recovery Sober Living is the largest provider of recovery residences in the state of Florida, with 300 beds for men across six locations in the greater Tampa Bay area. Patrick is a Certified Recovery Residence Administrator (CRRA), a Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) and a Certified Recovery Coach (CRC) and he uses his strong foundation in recovery to inform the work he does with men new in recovery.
Florida Alliance for State Advocacy Facebook Page
Real Recovery
Real Recovery Facebook Page
FARR
NARR
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Dec 1, 2021
E28: Lights, Camera, Recovery w/ Ahbra Schiff
Today’s guest, Ahbra Schiff, joins us from Studio City, California to talk about a couple of upcoming events that shine a light on addiction and mental illness recovery. She also gives us the backstory on how she got involved with these events, starting with making the acquaintance of Leonard Bushel at a 12-step meeting!
Almost 6 years after first meeting him, Ahbra has been working alongside Leonard to put on the REEL Recovery Film Festival (Now in its 13th year) and the Experience, Strength & Hope Awards’ Gratitude Dinner. Both of these events are dedicated to increasing awareness of and reducing the stigma associated with alcoholism, addiction and mental illness.
As far as Ahbra is concerned, she is a sober woman with 3 grown children and she is grateful and proud to work alongside American and International filmmakers who make honest films about addiction, alcoholism, behavioral disorders, treatment and recovery.
You can learn more about both the REEL Recovery Film Festival…
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Nov 17, 2021
E27: Intervening on Addiction w/ Marc Kantor, CIP
Addiction continues to be a serious national crisis that affects not only public health, but also social and economic welfare. Addiction is a family disease, meaning that the person who is using drugs and/or alcohol is not the only person impacted; the family is impacted too. Family support is crucial for those facing addiction, and very often this support and direction comes via an Intervention.
Today’s guest is Marc Kantor. Marc is a Certified Intervention Professional (CIP) who founded South Florida Intervention. With years of both personal and professional experience, Marc helps individuals and their families recover from addiction and other mental illnesses.
Marc grew up on Long Island and had a successful career in Real Estate before making the decision to address his own addiction at the Betty Ford Center. After relocating to Boca Raton with his wife and their teenage daughter, he started South Florida Intervention, which offers a full continuum of recovery services for indi…
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Oct 20, 2021
E26: Legally Speaking - Addiction & Mental Health Interventions w/ Mark Astor, Esq.
When faced with a crisis, many families to do not know where to turn. It can be very challenging to help a loved one who is experiencing a mental health crisis or facing addiction. When someone you know is decompensating to the point where they are threating to hurt themselves or someone else or they are using drugs and/or alcohol with no regard for severe consequences, an intervention is necessary.
Unfortunately, not everyone is open to accepting help. You may beg and plead with your loved one to seek help through therapy, treatment or a recovery support group, only to have them balk at your suggestions. Thankfully, there are ways that you can intervene when someone you know refuses to get help. On today’s episode we talk with Mark Astor, Esq., an attorney that specializes in helping families navigate the complexities of the legal system. Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Mark has been an attorney since 1994. He began his legal career as a prosecutor but has transitioned to a…
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Sep 1, 2021
E25: The Crew & Year in Review
The Point is Recovery Podcast was started one year ago in the midst of the Covid-19 Pandemic to shine a light on some good news. And that good news is that Addiction Recovery is Possible!
The podcast was the brainchild of the Professional Relations Team at Turning Point of Tampa, which is led by Joan Browne, Director of Professional Relations turned Producer. The team was focused on covering relevant topics that would be of interest to everyone, because let’s be clear, addiction does not discriminate, and many people will be affected by it at some point in their life.
So, after mixing 1 part tenacious (Joan), 1 part funny (Chris), 1 part resourceful (Ashley) and another part tech savvy (Jeremiah, AKA “Big J”), The Point is Recovery Podcast came to fruition and the first episode was aired on September 2, 2020!
It meant a lot to us to launch in September as September is National Recovery Month. It is so important for us to celebrate the 23 million Americans living in recovery in…
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Aug 11, 2021
E24: The Phoenix - A Sober Active Community w/ Brittany Garner
Since 2006, over 58,000 people have joined The Phoenix, a Sober Active community focused on the transformational power of connection. Founder Scott Strode found hope in his own recovery while discovering how ice climbing helped all his problems, fears and the shame of addiction melt away. Through his own experience, The Phoenix was born and a movement was started. That movement has spread to 53 cities in 22 states and is showing no signs of slowing down.
For this episode we are joined by a Tampa native that caught the Crossfit bug early in her recovery. Brittany Garner is now the Florida Programs Manager for The Phoenix Florida.
Brittany’s firsthand knowledge as a peer in recovery led to her training as a state certified peer recovery support specialist. Later in 2018 she obtained her CrossFit Level 1, Personal Training Certification and Nutrition Precision certifications, making Brittany the perfect fit to launch the Tampa chapter of The Phoenix. She is passionate about her commun…
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Jul 14, 2021
E23: A Crisis of Mental Health & Addiction w/ Sergeant Duane Benton
Check out these facts affecting people in the United States:
· Seventeen out of every 10,000 people were experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2019
· In 2020 in Hillsborough County, Florida, 2,741 people experienced a mental health crisis that resulted in a Baker Act
· 1 in 4 law enforcement uses of deadly force are against the mentally ill
These people represent a cross-section of America and include people from every family status, gender category, and racial/ethnic group. Law Enforcement officials often interact with those experiencing chronic homelessness and chronic mental illness and the mere sight of a uniform can be intimidating.
We have a systemic problem in our country and law enforcement officials are working to find solutions. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is leading the way in these efforts with the announcement of a new unit last summer. Join us on today’s episode as we speak with Sergeant Duane Benton to learn more about the Behavi…
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Jun 23, 2021
E22: Vance Johnson - Uncovered and Recovered
The Big Show. The Big Leagues. The Big Time. The Pros. Drinking and Driving. Overdose. Coma. Treatment. All of these are references to the life of today's guest.
Vance Johnson is a former wide receiver for the Denver Broncos where he played for 10 seasons. During the “glory years,” Vance was struggling with an addiction to drugs and alcohol so intensely that he walked away from the NFL and a pending contract renewal. He struggled for over 20 years and eventually found himself in the hospital in a medically induced coma for 28 days. Shockingly, even that was not his “rock bottom.” Vance’s 7th wife filed for divorce, but not before reaching out to the NFL and asking them to help him. He later admitted to a residential treatment center in Florida, and he has been clean and sober ever since. Vance is now a recovery advocate, drawing on his personal and professional experience to help other people find recovery.
Ironically, it is through recovery that we have the ultimate mind-a…
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Jun 9, 2021
E21: Eating Disorder Recovery w/ Allison Walsh, JD
You may have heard it said before that “we are only as sick as our secrets” and this could not be truer than with eating disorders. People suffering with an eating disorder tend to be very secretive and dishonest about what is going on behind closed doors. Keeping that secret can be life threatening.
Today’s guest is an incredible example of how recovery can change our lives and reveal our purpose. Allison Walsh suffered with Anorexia and Bulimia for years before receiving the help she needed to recover. Allison’s personal experience lit a fire in her to help other people, and she has truly built a life that inspires others.
Today Allison Walsh, JD is a corporate executive, philanthropist and success coach for women. In 2006, Allison had the unique opportunity to serve her state as Miss Florida, taking advantage of the opportunity to speak with audiences about eating disorders and the hope for recovery. Since that time, Allison started working in the behavioral health space,…
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May 26, 2021
E20: Understanding Eating Disorders w/ Jon Jasper, LMHC
It is estimated that 30 million people in the United States will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives. Contrary to popular belief, eating disorders are not “just a girl thing,” as 10 million of these people will be men. Eating disorders are serious conditions related to persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact health, emotions and the ability to function in important areas of life. The most common eating disorders are Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge Eating Disorder and all eating disorders are progressive, dangerous and potentially fatal if left untreated.
Our guest for Episode 20 is a bit of an expert on Eating Disorders. Jon Jasper is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been working as a therapist in the addiction field since 2012 and is currently the eating disorder therapist at Turning Point of Tampa. Originally from Kentucky, Jon moved to Tampa to be closer to family. Throughout this episode, Jon offers a ton of great information about eating diso…
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May 12, 2021
E19: Tackling the Stigma of Mental Illness w/ Natasha Pierre, CPLC, CWIC
Anxiety. Depression. OCD. Bipolar Disorder. ADHD.
Most of these conditions probably sound familiar, however, these conditions, and many others, are widely misunderstood. Mental illnesses include many different conditions that vary in degree of severity. According to recent reports, these conditions affect 51.9 million people in the United States and 10% of the global population. The World Health Organization (WHO), recently stated "the burden of mental disorders continues to grow with significant impacts on health and major social, human rights and economic consequences in all countries of the world."
Today’s guest is Natasha Pierre. Natasha is an award-winning speaker, author, certified professional life coach and a mental health advocate with over 20 years of lived experience. Natasha was born and raised on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands where she entered the world of professional speaking at age 14 and quickly became a sought-after keynote speaker at territory-wide forums addres…
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Apr 28, 2021
E18: A Sobering Take on "California Sober" with Interventionist, Ken Seeley, CCMI-M, CIP, CTP
Today we are airing a special episode with Interventionist, Ken Seeley. Ken recently made headlines with his views on "California Sober" and he filled us in on exactly how dangerous he believes this new term to be.
You probably know Ken Seeley from the Emmy Award-Winning A&E television series, Intervention. Ken Seeley has been both professionally and personally involved in recovery since he got sober in 1989 and he connects with people and their families to change their lives. His understanding of the disease of addiction & remarkable success rate has turned Ken into one of the most sought-after interventionists in the country.
www.aetv.com/shows/intervention
www.kenseeleycommunities.com
www.intervention911.com
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www.facebook.com/Th…
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Apr 21, 2021
E17: Former NHL Player & Author of the book, Pain Killer, Brantt Myhres
When you think of an “addict” or “alcoholic,” does your mind conjure up images of homelessness, liquor bottles in brown paper bags or someone stumbling down a dark alley in the wrong part of town? You probably don't think of a professional athlete playing on hockey’s most elite stage. With that being said, addiction does not discriminate; it affects every race, gender and socioeconomic class.
Brantt Myhres is a former player in the National Hockey League who was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 1992. After playing for 7 different teams and making millions, his drug & alcohol use also earned him 4 League suspensions and eventually, a life-time ban. Brantt got sober in 2008, studied substance abuse & behavioral health at Mount Royal University in Calgary and went on to work with the Los Angeles Kings as the team’s player assistance director. Brantt recently released his book, Pain Killer – A Memoir of Big-League Addiction and is here to talk with us about his journey.…
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Apr 7, 2021
E16: Leading a Life of Passion & Purpose w/ Tina Levene
Some people write books to share their story. Others become motivational speakers. Some even go on to provide staff trainings to companies, large & small. Our guest for this episode has done all three.
Tina Levene is an author, nationally-known speaker, and trainer who has worked in social work, education and the juvenile justice field for over 20 years. Often using her whit and personal experience, Tina is able to evoke a sense of relatability with audiences from the classroom to the Board room.
Tina’s unique experience with her own addictions, her journey to recovery and a passion for working with children recently inspired the founding of Tampa Bay’s 1st Recovery High School, Victory High School, where she is the Executive Director.
With a motto like “The Truth Is…There is Hope,” you know Tina is a force for good in the community. We hope you enjoy the episode.
www.tinatalkstruth.com
www.floridarecoveryschoolsoftampabay.com
www.becomejust1.com
www.tpoftampa.com
ww…
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Mar 17, 2021
E15: Forty Four Sober St. Paddy's Days
Happy St. Paddy's Day! Thank you for joining us for Episode 15.
Today's guest is Dave M., an Irishman from Long Island, NY who started his drinking career as a pre-teen and ended it after he came to from a blackout, standing in the parking lot of a 12-Step Recovery Meeting. Dave has been sober since 1977 and has averaged a meeting a day for the past 43 years. He has had the opportunity to speak to other people in recovery over the world, including places like Tehran, Iran where it is illegal to even have an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting!
From all of us here at The Point is Recovery Podcast, we wish you a Safe & Sober St. Patrick's Day. Dave shared with us this Irish Blessing and we'd like to share it with you:
May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sunshine warm upon your face,
The rain fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
www.aa.org
www.al-anon.org
www.na.org
www.nar-anon.org
www.t…
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Mar 3, 2021
E14: Helping Families Face Addiction w/ Kevin Petersen, LMFT
Parenting is HARD. Contrary to popular belief, there is not a book for everything you'll need to know when you become a parent. Case in point: Parenting the addicted child. Imagine being consumed with fear and worry, day in and day out, because your child is in the grips of addiction and at the same time being completely unprepared to help them. Thankfully, there is a solution that can be found in a series of books written by our guest, Kevin Petersen, LMFT.
Kevin Petersen is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, best-selling author & founder of The Chronic Hope Institute. Kevin graduated from Regis University in 2011 with a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and opened his private practice, Petersen Family Counseling just three years later. His extensive work with families and individuals struggling with addictions, codependency, and parenting inspired both of his books and the founding of the Chronic Hope Institute. Kevin’s passion for helping families and his desi…
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Feb 17, 2021
E13: From Psychiatric Institutions to Stardom w/ Comedian Mark Lundholm
Does being homeless, drug addicted, and ending up in a psychiatric facility in 4-point restraints sound funny to you? For most normal people, these are not laughing matters. However, as recovering addicts and alcoholics, eventually we are able to share and laugh at our most painful experiences. Comedian Mark Lundholm learned this talent early on and decided it was his way out. His ability to poke fun at himself and his experiences thrust him onto large stages, such as that of Comedy Central and TedX.
Mark has gone from homeless criminal to world-renowned entertainer. Mark’s show “Addicted…a comedy of substance,” was an off-Broadway hit. He has performed in all 50 states and abroad and has appeared on Showtime, A&E, NBC and CBS. He has been hailed as "a younger George Carlin" and is known for his dark, honest and raw humor. Mark is also a friend of the recovery community, performing at conventions, treatment centers, jails and other institutions where he can relate to almost ev…
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Feb 3, 2021
E12: A Voice for Recovery in Washington, DC with NAATP Director of Public Policy, Mark Dunn
Addiction continues to be a serious national public health crisis. Estimates are that as many as 81,000 people died of a drug overdose in the 12 months leading up to May 2020. Access to addiction treatment has increased with the passage of the Affordable Care Act and the Mental Health Parity Addiction Equity Act. On today’s episode we will discuss how the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (Also known as NAATP) has stepped up to address the needs of the addiction treatment industry through Public Policy.
To help us better understand NAATP's role in public policy is Mark Dunn. Mark Dunn represents NAATP in Washington DC. As policy representative, Mark represents NAATP on Capitol Hill, at the various federal agencies, and with coalition partners. He advises NAATP and the Board on a broad range of public policy issues important to NAATP members. Mark is a partner in Veritas Advisors, a public affairs firm with over 150 years of combined federal government affairs exp…
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Jan 20, 2021
E11: Its a Family Disease with CEO & Clinical Director, Robin Piper Lutz, LMHC, MCAP
For Episode 11 we are joined by Robin Piper-Lutz , CEO & Clinical Director of Turning Point of Tampa. Robin is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, a Masters Certified Addiction Professional and a National Certified Counselor.
On today's episode we will talk with Robin about what family members can do to support their loved one and what they can do to also take care of themselves.
Addiction is a family disease that can erode trust, weaken communication and destroy everyone in its path. Friends and loved ones often struggle with questions like “Am I helping or am I enabling?” Conversely, a lack of family and social support can have a detrimental effect on the recovery process. The good news is that recovery is possible for anyone who seeks it, including family members.
www.al-anon.org
www.nar-anon.org
www.coda.org
www.adultchildren.org
www.sanon.org
www.tpoftampa.com
www.tpoftampa.com/our-programs
www.tpoftampa.com/our-programs/food-a…
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Jan 6, 2021
E10: Employee Assistance Programs with Mark Davis, LCSW
On today’s episode we will discuss Employee Assistance Programs with Mark Davis, LCSW. Employee Assistance Programs, according to today's guest, mean FREE COUNSELING for employees and a healthy workforce for employers. You'll hear him reference that a few times on the episode.
Estimates by the National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence are that drug abuse costs employers upwards of $81 Billion each year. Yes, that is Billion, with a B! This is because of lost work, healthcare costs and loss in productivity. Offering EAP benefits to employees is not only good for their mental health, but its also good for business.
Mark Davis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, therapist, corporate consultant and trainer in the areas of Management, Communications Training, Substance Abuse, and Critical Incident Stress Management. He works with both National and Local Employee Assistance Programs. He is a graduate of the University of South Florida (GO BULLS) and Florida State University and…
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Dec 23, 2020
E9: Which Came First, the Booze or the Blues? with Dr. Ryan Estevez
Happy Holidays and welcome to our last episode of 2020. We hope you and your families stay safe and sober as we look forward to 2021. This is also the last episode of Season 1 of The Point is Recovery Podcast but we will be bringing you more great content in Season 2, which kicks off on January 6th!
This week we ask the Chicken or the Egg question, in regards to Dual Diagnosis. Experts like today's guest, Ryan Estevez, MD, PhD, MPH, have long studied this topic.
Dual Diagnosis is the condition of suffering from a mental illness and a comorbid substance abuse problem. On today's episode we learn more about dual diagnosis from Dr. Estevez who is the Director of Psychiatric Services here at Turning Point of Tampa.
Dr. Ryan Estevez is a psychiatrist who has earned several Ivy League advanced degrees in the behavioral and health sciences, including a bachelor’s degree in psychology, master’s degrees in both social psychology & public health and a Ph.D. in experimental psychology. Dr.…
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Dec 9, 2020
E8: Recovery. So Easy Even a Caveman Can Do It, with Comedian John Lehr
John Lehr is a comedic actor, writer and producer who works in television, film & theater. In other words, John is a comedian and actor who also has control issues. You will probably know him best from his time as the Geico Caveman.
When we first met John about a year ago, we asked if he was “out” in the sense of publicly acknowledging that he is in recovery. His response? “Yes, I am fully broken.” Then he told us a story about the time he got arrested while high on LSD and booze. We were referring to anonymity, but its good to know he’s just as broken as the rest of us.
John has been in recovery for over 20 years and is very open about his past struggles and the importance of an authentic sense of humor. In this episode he talks about his road to recovery and how he stays sober in Tinsel Town.
You can find more information about John Lehr on his website and you can hear from him on his podcast, Generation Gab, where he chats with a millennial about the differences (and si…
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Nov 25, 2020
E7: A Journey from the Gridiron to Recovery, with Randy Grimes
This week's guest is former NFL player, Randy Grimes. During a 10 year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Randy began using powerful prescription opioids to manage the pain of chronic injuries. When his time on the gridiron ended, his life spiraled out of control for the next 20+ years.
When Randy learned that addiction had claimed the life a close friend whom he had played alongside in the NFL, he decided to ask for help. Randy has made it his life’s mission to change the way we think about life and death issues such as substance use disorders, addiction, mental health, trauma and suicide.
Today Randy is a motivational speaker, Interventionist and the founding advocate for the Athletes in Recovery Program. Randy is also a regular commentator for national TV networks and media such as The NFL Network, CNN, Fox Sports and many others and recently joined the Board of Directors for Florida Recovery Schools of Tampa Bay.
Family is very important to Randy and we would be remiss if w…
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Nov 11, 2020
E6: A Life of Service with Vietnam veteran Eugene Hairston
Today is Veterans Day and we would like to recognize all veterans for their service to our country. We deeply appreciate your sacrifice for our freedoms.
For this episode we are joined by Eugene "Tree" Hairston, Vietnam veteran and author of the book, A Quiet Voice. Eugene struggled for years with the affects of PTSD and addiction after returning home from the war. He credits his success in sobriety to the help that he received from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the support of other veterans and the acceptance of people he has met in recovery programs.
For the past 20+ years, Eugene has helped other veterans find recovery. In addition to his work at the VA, Eugene is a motivational speaker and ordained minister. His book, A Quiet Voice, chronicles his story of survival from childhood abuse, addiction, PTSD, incarceration and homelessness.
This podcast was started to get the word out that recovery is possible, no matter what situation you may find yourself in. Whether you…
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Oct 28, 2020
E5: The Crossroads of COVID-19, Addiction & Mental Health with Hardeep Singh, MD, FASAM
We are joined this week by Dr. Hardeep Singh for an in depth discussion about the effects of COVID-19 in regards to addiction, recovery and mental health.
There have been recent reports of a spike in alcohol sales, drug overdoses and an increase in suicidal ideation since this Coronavirus surfaced. With many people forced into isolation, family members unable to see loved their ones, and others facing job loss, mental health professionals are positioned to help with the current mental health of Americans. However, mental health professionals and medical professionals alike are reporting that they too, are experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout and fatigue.
This podcast was started to get the word out that recovery is possible, no matter what situation you may find yourself in. Whether you are struggling with addiction yourself or you are the family member/friend of someone who is suffering, please know that there is hope for recovery.
www.tpoftampa.com
www.thepointisrecoverypodc…
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Oct 14, 2020
E4: Addiction, Relationships & Tumbleweeds, Oh My!, with Ken Donaldson, LMHC, CAP, ICADC
On Episode 4 we are joined by Ken Donaldson, LMHC, CAP, ICADC (also a PhD student) for a conversation about how addiction can affect relationships. Ken is also the author of Marry Yourself First, a book that was born out of his interest in helping couples to have meaningful, healthy relationships with themselves and their partners.
This podcast was started to get the word out that recovery is possible. Whether you are struggling with addiction yourself or you are the family member/friend of someone who is suffering, please know that there is hope for recovery.
www.kendonaldson.com
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www.thepointisrecoverypodcast.com
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www.facebook.com/ThePointisRecoveryPodcast
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Sep 30, 2020
E3: From Under the Influence to Recovery Influencer, with Danny VanBomel, LMHC
In Episode 3 we sit down with Danny VanBomel, LMHC, for a conversation about his experience working in addiction treatment AND learn what it was like to get sober at 23 years old in the Bronx.
This podcast was started to get the word out that recovery is possible. Whether you are struggling with addiction yourself or you are the family member/friend of someone who is suffering, please know that there is hope for recovery.
September is National Recovery Month and we invite you to celebrate with us! There are millions of Americans living a life of recovery, free from addiction, eating disorders and mental health conditions.
Today, September 30th, is International Podcast Day! Help us share the info on The Point is Recovery Podcast & get the word out.
https://rm.facesandvoicesofrecovery.org/
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www.thepointisrecoverypodcast.com
www.facebook.com/TurningPointofTampa
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www.instagram.com/turningpointtpa
www.youtube.com/user/TurningPointof…
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Sep 16, 2020
E2: Meet Your Host, Chris Nasuti
Join us for Episode 2 as Host Chris Nasuti shares about his 25 year struggle with addiction and the gratitude he has found in a life of recovery.
This podcast was started to get the word out that recovery is possible. Whether you are struggling with addiction yourself or you are the family member/friend of someone who is suffering, please know that there is hope for recovery.
September is National Recovery Month and we invite you to celebrate with us! There are millions of Americans living a life of recovery, free from addiction, eating disorders and mental health conditions.
Links:
https://rm.facesandvoicesofrecovery.org/
www.tpoftampa.com
www.thepointisrecoverypodcast.com
www.facebook.com/TurningPointofTampa
www.twitter.com/TurningPointTPA
www.instagram.com/turningpointtpa
www.youtube.com/user/TurningPointofTampa
www.facebook.com/ThePointisRecoveryPodcast
www.instagram.com/thepointisrecoverypodcast
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Sep 2, 2020
E1: Meet Your Host, Ashley Neal
Join us as Host Ashley Neal shares her story of addiction to alcohol, drugs and food AND how recovery has changed her life.
This podcast was started to get the word out that recovery is possible. Whether you are struggling with addiction yourself or you are the family member/friend of someone who is suffering, please know that there is hope for recovery.
September is National Recovery Month and we invite you to celebrate with us! There are millions of Americans living a life of recovery, free from addiction, eating disorders and mental health conditions.
Links:
https://rm.facesandvoicesofrecovery.org/
www.tpoftampa.com
www.thepointisrecoverypodcast.com
www.facebook.com/TurningPointofTampa
www.twitter.com/TurningPointTPA
www.instagram.com/turningpointtpa
www.youtube.com/user/TurningPointofTampa
www.facebook.com/ThePointisRecoveryPodcast
www.instagram.com/thepointisrecoverypodcast
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Aug 20, 2020
Let's Make Recovery the Epidemic
Join hosts Ashley Neal & Chris Nasuti for discussions with people in recovery, advocates working to break the stigma of addiction & mental health, the people working on the front lines in the behavioral health field and those who love us until we love ourselves.
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