Discovery doesn't only hurt. For many partners it shakes their sense of reality, safety, and trust in their own judgment. And for years, the helping world told those partners they were part of the problem.

Jeanne Vattuone has spent her career changing that. Jeanne is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a certified sex addiction therapist and supervisor, a certified partner trauma therapist, cofounder of Willow Tree Healing and Recovery in Santa Rosa, California, and coauthor of the workbook Finding the Way Through. She's also a longtime leader and board member of APSATS, the organization that helped the field name betrayal trauma. When she booked this episode, she asked to build the whole conversation around one thing: partner sensitivity.

In this conversation, Jeanne and Drew cover:

• Moving from two decades of trauma work into sex addiction treatment, back when the coaddict model was the only option offered to partners
• Why Finding the Way Through brings the betrayed partner's perspective into every chapter of a workbook written for the person with the compulsive behavior
• Willow Tree's three steps: get sober, learn to stay sober in this world, then understand why
• What discovery does to a partner, and what friends, family, pastors, and professionals should say (and never say) in those first days
• Why a trauma lens fits partners better than the old labels, and why you treat the gunshot wound first
• The growing number of betrayed men asking for help, and why the field's language has to change
• Therapeutic disclosure as structured truth telling, not a verdict on the marriage, why Willow Tree spreads it over two days, and when an emergency disclosure makes sense
• Why disclosure is a launch point and not an end point, and how integrity, not obligation, drives repair
• Where to find hope and the right specialized help

If you're the partner who's been carrying this alone, or the man who wants to understand what they're really going through, this episode is for you.

Learn more about Jeanne's work at willowtreehealingrecovery.com, and find Finding the Way Through wherever you get your books.

About Valiant Living:
Valiant Living is a men's residential treatment program in Greenwood Village, Colorado, helping men 26 and older move from addiction to connection. Loving Leverage™ is the family framework created by founder Michael Dinneen, LCSW, CSAT-S. Learn more at valiantliving.com or call our admissions line at 720-669-1285. A real person picks up.

Show notes and links: valiantliving.com/episode71

The Loving Leverage Podcast is presented by Valiant Living and hosted by Drew Powell, Recovery Advocate / Alumnus.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Love can look heroic while it quietly keeps the cycle alive. When someone we love is stuck in addiction, the instinct is to fix, cover, explain, and cushion the consequences. But what if the most loving move is to stop rescuing?

Drew is joined by Ian and Roxcy Brown, co founders of Iron Ridge Recovery in Texas, the first intensive outpatient program in the state built specifically for men with compulsive sexual behavior. Here's the tension at the center of this conversation. On one side, a man saying, in so many words, I need you to stay so I can be okay. On the other, the person who loves him saying, I need you to change so I can be okay. Both are exhausted. Both are stuck. Ian and Roxcy offer a third path.

You'll hear:

• Why sex addiction is rarely one man's secret problem and almost always a family systems crisis, and how a household quietly reorganizes around it, kids included
• Drew on what it took to relieve his own older kids of the adult roles they took on during his treatment
• The addiction cycle in plain terms: preoccupation, ritual, acting out, shame crash, repeat, and why the shame is the driver
• Why remorse is a feeling, not a plan, and why partners are coached to look for patterns over words
• What betrayal trauma does to a partner's nervous system, and why her "crazy" responses are the most normal thing happening
• Carried shame, and the work of separating what's hers from what isn't
• Why the disease model reduces shame without excusing behavior
• Don't steal someone's rock bottom: why cushioning the consequences robs a man of the pain he needs to change
• Compliance versus recovery: why checking the boxes falls apart, and what it looks like when a man stops chasing an outcome he can't control

If you're caught between staying and leaving, or between managing his recovery and giving up, this one is for you.

Learn more about Ian and Roxcy's work at Iron Ridge Recovery https://www.ironridgerecovery.com/

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

The hardest part of getting a man into treatment is rarely finding the right program. It's the moment a smart, successful, "I'm fine" kind of man starts negotiating for control while the people who love him are running out of hope.

This is the first Mondays with Michael, a bonus series on The Loving Leverage Podcast that drops on Mondays whenever there's a conversation worth sharing. Every Monday, Drew Powell and Valiant Living founder Michael Dinneen, LCSW, CSAT-S get on a call that is supposed to be about business. It always gets there eventually. But before the agenda, they end up in a real conversation about recovery, family, and what loving leverage looks like when it leaves the whiteboard. Every so often, Drew hits record.

In this one, Drew and Michael walk through a real intervention from the past week (names and details changed to protect everyone involved). A man who kept insisting he was fine. A wife and daughter who had tried everything they knew to try. And the specific moves that family made, with Michael's coaching, that got him through the doors of the men's program two days later.

You'll hear:

• Why the first draft of the impact letter had to be rewritten, and what changed when it led with love instead of accusation
• Why the consequence belongs at the end of the letter, not the beginning
• The "broken record" response that kept the family from getting pulled into his demands, threats, and rabbit holes
• Why reframing it as "family versus the disease" instead of "wife versus husband" changed everything
• What is actually going on when an addict keeps fighting for one last piece of control, even on the way to rehab
• Why Valiant is careful with the word codependency in early family work, and what is usually underneath it
• The performance wound: the belief that people will leave you if you stop performing, and what happens when someone doesn't leave
• Drew and Michael each share a moment from the same weekend where they lost their cool with family, went into a shame spiral, and had to repair
• Sideways emotions: why the thing you blew up about is rarely the thing you're actually carrying

If you have a man in your life who keeps saying he's fine, you're going to recognize this story. What this family did is learnable. It's not about being harsh and it's not about being a doormat. It's about loving someone enough to stop making it easy for him to stay stuck.

If you like this format, let us know. It helps us decide how often to hit record.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don't have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more at www.valiantliving.com or call our admissions line at (720) 669-1285. A real person picks up.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

On paper, Jeff Hatch's early twenties looked like a highlight reel. All-American at Penn, third round pick by the New York Giants, a million dollar contract. What nobody saw was the kid underneath who'd learned to hide, and then the injuries, the prescriptions, and the alcohol that quietly took over. Jeff got sober in 2006 and spent years helping other men find recovery. Then in 2019, in a very public way, it all came apart again.

Jeff doesn't skip that chapter. He walks right through it. Today he's a Certified High Performance Coach whose BREAKTHROUGH program works with business leaders, athletes in transition, and men in recovery who are done pretending.

In this conversation, Jeff and Drew cover:

· Growing up in a home that expected achievement and strict positivity, and what young Jeff learned to hide
 · The gap between the highlight reel and what was really going on
 · When the pills stopped being about his back and started being about everything else
 · Losing football and staring into the mirror wondering who was underneath
 · The 2019 chapter, and what the second surrender taught him that the first one didn't
 · What secrets cost a man living a double life
 · Learning to sit with pain instead of pushing through it
 · What Loving Leverage looked like from the receiving end, and what Jeff would say to the wife or parent trying to hold that line right now

Connect with Jeff at hatch-coaching.com.

About Valiant Living
 Valiant Living is a men's residential treatment program in Greenwood Village, Colorado, helping men 26 and older move from addiction to connection. Loving Leverage™ is the family framework created by founder Michael Dinneen, LCSW, CSAT-S. Learn more at valiantliving.com or call our admissions line at 720-669-1285. A real person picks up.

Show notes and links: valiantliving.com/episode69

The Loving Leverage Podcast is presented by Valiant Living and hosted by Drew Powell, Recovery Advocate / Alumnus.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Love can sound soft until it starts telling the truth. That’s the heartbeat behind our rebrand to the Loving Leverage Podcast, and it’s why we believe boundaries can be one of the most compassionate tools in addiction recovery. When addiction is running the show, everyone gets pulled into the same exhausting loop: promises, bargaining, secrecy, shame, and the constant attempt to “manage” what can’t be managed alone. We want a better way forward for addicts and for the families who are trying to survive the fallout.

We’re joined by Valiant’s founder, Michael Denine, to unpack what “loving leverage” really means and why it’s not about choosing sides. Michael shares his own moment of bottom and surrender, the kind that doesn’t arrive as a neat breakthrough but as a desperate willingness to accept help. We talk about why spouses and parents often need a team around them, how trauma can get mislabeled as “codependency,” and why follow-through matters more than threats. If you’ve ever felt like you’re negotiating with someone who can’t think straight, you’ll recognize the patterns and the relief of a clear plan.

We also zoom out to the bigger recovery framework: the addiction cycle, the brain’s rationalizations, the role of shame, and why real change usually requires coordinated support (therapist, CSAT, sponsor, treatment, and family boundaries working together). We end with a question that cuts through excuses: do you actually want to be healed?

Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more families can find practical help and real hope.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

"My husband is a narcissist." It's one of the most common things families say when they call for help. But is it true narcissism, or something else entirely?

In this episode, Drew sits down with Dr. Alexandra Repke, a licensed psychologist who specializes in personality disorders and their overlap with addiction. Recorded live at the Hope for Healing conference by Lit Path, this conversation unpacks the blind spot that keeps some people stuck no matter how much treatment they get.

Dr. Repke explains the difference between a personality issue and a true personality disorder, why trauma treatment can actually make a personality disorder worse, and what's really underneath narcissism and borderline personality disorder. Most importantly, she pushes back on the idea that these diagnoses are hopeless. With the right treatment, real change is possible.

In this conversation:

· Personality as your psychological toolkit

· Personality issues vs. personality disorders

· Why some people don't get better in treatment

· Narcissism as a lack of access to equality

· Borderline as a cage of extremes

· What families should do next, and what makes things worse

· Why treatment takes 12 to 18 months, and why there's real hope

This is also the final episode of the Valiant Living Podcast. Starting next episode we become the Loving Leverage Podcast. Same show, same feed, sharper focus on the families, partners, and parents who love someone struggling with addiction. Michael Dinneen joins Drew next time to unpack what Loving Leverage means.

Learn more about Dr. Repke's work at repkepsychologicalservices.com

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

The most damaging myth about recovery is that it is mainly about stopping something. We believe it is about building something: a life where you can handle stress, emotions, relationships, and uncertainty without reaching for old patterns. That is why I sat down with Melissa, our Director of Wellness, to unpack the Five Pillars of Wellness that shape the daily rhythm of Valiant: physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual wellness. This framework is not fluffy or abstract. It is a simple way to rebuild your relationship with yourself from the inside out, one week at a time. 

We also dig into a phrase we are starting to use more intentionally: experiential healing. Hiking, breathwork, sound baths, cold water, yoga, and longer off-grid “experiential immersions” are not rewards or distractions. They are designed spaces where defenses drop, trust grows, and deeper work can finally surface. Melissa shares why nature and somatic practices can unlock breakthroughs that do not always happen in a chair, and how we build in real processing so the experience turns into insight and change. 

You will hear exactly how we make wellness practical through a weekly five pillars check-in, where each person chooses one small, specific, achievable goal per pillar. We talk about accountability, reducing overwhelm, and how this same tool can strengthen relationships through a couples version that improves communication and shared habits. Melissa also previews a powerful theme on non-attachment, including an exercise that makes emotional baggage literal and shows the cost of clinging too tightly. 

Grab the free Five Pillars of Wellness guide with reflection questions and weekly check-ins at ValiantLiving.com/episode66, and if this helps you, subscribe, share it with someone you love, and leave a review so more people can find real tools for lasting recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Complex case management sounds like paperwork until you see what it really is: the difference between a client staying engaged or falling through the cracks. We bring together a roundtable of experienced leaders in addiction treatment and recovery to talk candidly about what “complex” looks like now and why it keeps evolving. We get into whole-person care, family systems, trauma, and the real-world barriers that show up the moment someone tries to step down in the continuum of care. 

We also dig into the clinical patterns we’re seeing more often, including bipolar disorder and suicide risk in high-performing clients who have built an identity around holding it all together. The conversation turns to substance trends that are reshaping treatment planning, including high-potency THC and the growing concern about psychosis and repeat episodes, plus kratom and how it’s being marketed as focus and stress relief. These aren’t abstract talking points; they change how we assess risk, stabilize the nervous system, and coordinate longer-term support. 

From there, we talk denial as a survival strategy, how stigma keeps people from naming trauma, and why some environments, including parts of church culture, can unintentionally encourage spiritual bypassing instead of honest help-seeking. We close with practical, actionable ways clinicians and programs can improve outcomes now: earlier collaboration, warm handoffs, involving families and outside providers sooner, and building teams that include peer support. If you care about trauma-informed care, co-occurring disorders, and better care coordination in addiction treatment, this conversation will sharpen how you think and how you plan. 

Subscribe for future roundtables, share this with a clinician or loved one, and leave a review with the biggest challenge you’re seeing in complex cases.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Prayer can feel like a talent you either have or you don’t. If you’ve ever sat in a 12-step meeting, heard the Lord’s Prayer, and realized you’re just repeating words without connection, you’re not alone. Drew Powell sits down with his close friend Matt Smallbone, a pastor, former touring musician, and the author of The Prayer Experiment: How Praying Like Jesus Realigns Everything, to talk about a surprising path back to honest, grounded prayer.

Matt tells the story behind his “experiment”: stepping into a preaching series on the Lord’s Prayer while feeling like an imposter, wrestling with unanswered prayer after miscarriage, and carrying half-formed beliefs about God’s sovereignty that quietly killed his motivation to pray. His response was not a new technique or longer prayers. He committed to praying the Lord’s Prayer every day for a year, then using it as a framework by pausing after each line and speaking plainly, without trying to sound spiritual.

We walk through surrender, daily dependence, forgiveness, and how “Our Father” breaks isolation, which is especially powerful in addiction recovery. We also talk candidly about father wounds, shame, triggers, and why “lead us not into temptation” can be prayed as “help me pass the test.” Then we get practical: Matt role-plays how to pray through a gambling addiction spiral and how a betrayed partner can pray through anger, therapy, boundaries, and the slow work of forgiveness. If you’re looking for a simple Christian prayer practice, recovery-friendly spirituality, or a way to pray again without performing, this conversation gives you a clear starting point.

Subscribe to the Valiant Living Podcast, share this with someone who needs hope today, and leave a review so more people can find these tools for healing and connection.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

A mother and daughter getting sober at the same time sounds inspiring, until you hear what it actually takes: naming the family patterns, setting real boundaries, and staying in the room for the hard conversations. I’m joined by Sherry Young and Julie Hurley to talk about how addiction shows up inside a family system and how recovery becomes possible when we stop performing “fine” and start telling the truth. Their story spans early drinking, blackout shame, high-functioning denial, and the moment consequences finally force clarity.

We dig into rebuilding trust after addiction, what forgiveness does and does not mean, and why emotional connection matters more than perfect parenting. Julie shares what it looks like to be sober while still repeating old patterns, and Sherry reflects on growing up around alcoholism and how that shaped control, safety, and the hunger for attachment. If you’ve ever felt “manageably unmanageable,” this conversation puts language to that experience and offers a path forward grounded in community and humility.

We also talk about the work they do through Right Fit, helping families, therapists, and treatment professionals navigate complex case management, higher levels of care, and the messy reality of crisis. You’ll hear practical guidance for moms who feel lost, including how to get curious, ask for help, and put the oxygen mask on first.

If you find this helpful, subscribe, share the episode with someone who needs hope today, and leave a review so more families can find these recovery stories.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What happens when faith falls apart in ways sobriety alone cannot fix?

In this episode, a former pastor who found himself disqualified and starting over sits down with Anglican priest and author Father Chad Jarnigan for an honest conversation about losing and rediscovering faith.

This is not a polished, theological discussion. It is a grounded, real exploration of what it looks like when your relationship with God no longer works the way it used to.

Together, they unpack spiritual deconstruction and reconstruction in plain language, especially for those in recovery who feel ashamed, numb, or unsure what they believe anymore. They explore how shame-based religion can distort both your view of God and your view of yourself, and why honesty matters more than certainty when you are trying to rebuild.

The conversation also touches on the healing role of confession, the difference between a faith crisis and a necessary clearing, and why belonging often comes before believing when someone is starting over.

You will also hear practical ways to begin reconnecting, including contemplative practices like silence, breath, gratitude, and simply learning to notice again. Instead of pressure or performance, this episode points toward a slower, more grounded spirituality built on real experience.

For anyone who has ever asked, “Where was God in my suffering?”, this conversation holds that question with care and without easy answers.

If you feel spiritually lost, you are not alone. And you are not out of options.

Download the free guide:
 What Do I Turn To When I Feel Spiritually Lost?
www.valiantliving.com/episode62

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Most people try to love addiction out of someone, and it quietly turns into enabling. We wanted a more honest approach, so we hosted a live roundtable called Loving Leverage with clinicians, family advocates, and people in recovery to talk about the question families live inside every day: when does support help, and when does it keep someone stuck?

We dig into what “loving leverage” actually looks like on the ground, from detox realities to long-term recovery. You’ll hear why repeated threats without follow-through backfire, how “relational influence” differs from control, and why the best boundaries are rooted in safety rather than punishment. We also talk about the practical teamwork piece: aligning spouses, parents, employers, and providers so the addicted person can’t split the system, and so treatment has a real chance to work.

For clinicians and helpers, we explore the uncomfortable tension of who the client really is when an addicted partner and a betrayed partner want different things. We discuss why outcomes improve when you treat the whole family system, how families can spot relapse risk and inauthenticity after discharge, and what to do when a professional rejects labels like sex addiction by focusing on trauma and attachment patterns. We close with a message for partners and families who feel stuck: fear can be a signal that it’s time to act.

Subscribe for more conversations like this, share the episode with someone supporting a loved one, and leave a review so more families can find the help they need.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

The most dangerous part of process addiction often isn’t what people can see, it’s what shame does in the dark. We sit down as a host, a betrayed partner, and a clinical forensic psychologist to map the real terrain of sex addiction recovery, betrayal trauma, and the moment families realize that weekly therapy and willpower aren’t enough. If inpatient rehab sounds “extreme,” we unpack why treatment can still be life or death when the risk is spiraling secrecy, escalating behavior, and suicidality driven by exposure and self-hatred.

We also get practical about the family system. Betrayal trauma can feel like losing your grip on reality because denial and minimization keep rewriting the story. From a clinical perspective, we talk about why partners doubt themselves, what “provisional trust” looks like when everything is on fire, and why specialized support like a CSAT can change the whole trajectory. Healing requires more than stopping behaviors; it requires rebuilding safety, restoring self-trust, and addressing the attachment injuries that addiction creates.

Then we go straight at the barrier we hear most: “I can’t leave my job.” We explore how work becomes identity, why control and negotiation are part of the addicted brain, and why the longer treatment is delayed the more relationships and reputations fracture. We end with a legacy question that cuts through the noise: when your life is over, what do you want your family to remember, your title or your presence?

If this conversation helps, subscribe, share it with someone who’s stuck, and leave a review so more families can find real support. What’s the biggest fear that keeps people from getting treatment?

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Most recovery podcasts keep a safe distance between interviewer and subject. This episode doesn't. Our host, Drew Powell, sits down with his own wife, Jamie, to talk about what his addiction and betrayal did to her life, her sanity, and their family. It's uncomfortable because it should be.

This isn't about redemption arcs or tidy endings. Jamie talks about the moment she stopped protecting him from consequences, stopped managing his recovery, and started asking: "What do I need?" They walk through the chaos of early disclosure, the terrifying decision to pursue therapeutic separation, and what it actually meant to "hold the line" when treatment felt like it might cost them everything.

Jamie names what codependency looked like in real time—living by the rule "if you're okay, I'm okay," losing access to her own feelings, and the slow work of reclaiming her voice while married to the person who shattered her trust. They discuss practical tools that mattered: S-Anon, daily emotional regulation practices, communication boundaries with kids, and why detachment isn't abandonment—it's refusing to be someone else's emotional manager.

If you're newly betrayed, feeling gaslit, or wondering if you'll ever feel normal again, Jamie offers language for what you're experiencing and permission to prioritize your own healing. If you're the betrayer trying to understand the damage, this is what it sounds like when your partner finally tells the truth.

Download the free resource: "Loving Leverage: A Wife's Guide to Boundaries, Clarity, and Hope" at valiantliving.com/episode59

Subscribe for unfiltered recovery conversations. Share this with someone who needs to hear they're not crazy. Leave a review so more people can find help that doesn't sanitize the hard parts.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Your phone isn’t just a screen anymore, it can function like a casino that follows you everywhere. We bring back gambling addiction expert Chris Anderson for a timely, clear-eyed talk about microbetting, sports betting, and the new wave of problem gambling that’s exploding through constant ads, instant payouts, and real-time prop bets. Chris explains why the core addiction hasn’t changed, but the product has: faster play, smaller time gaps, more bets per minute, and easier ways to load money make the “gambling drug” more concentrated than ever.

We also get blunt about what makes gambling disorder uniquely dangerous. Chris shares why the thought “I can place the next bet and win” is both true and destructive, and how that belief keeps people from seeking treatment. We dig into mind betting, the invisible practice of wagering in your head while watching sports, and why it can quietly set up relapse by pulling you out of the present moment. The conversation includes hard realities, including why gambling carries the highest attempted suicide rate among addictions, and how shame and secrecy can convince someone they’re “worth more dead than alive.”

For families, we talk about the hidden addiction, why lying warps trust, and what practical steps matter when the truth finally surfaces. Chris flags a newer threat we’re seeing more often: blackmail and extortion connected to online bookies, and why legal help may be necessary. We close with hope, concrete resources like Gamblers Anonymous, and a simple question to interrupt the spiral: after that next bet, what’s next?

If this helped, subscribe, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find these conversations. What part of modern sports betting feels most risky to you right now?

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

We share an unflinching look at pornography addiction as a counterfeit path to presence and how surrender, regulation, and community create real change. Tyler opens his story, breaks down brain science, and shows couples how to rebuild safety without linear timelines.

• the link between fear, dysregulation and porn use
• why willpower fails under fight or flight
• addiction as unmet needs seeking relief
• regulation skills for grounding and presence
• early exposure, secrecy and escalation risks
• marriage myths about sex solving compulsion
• how shame and betrayal create a painful loop
• safe, guided disclosure versus partial leaks
• accountability and surrender that build trust
• community groups that make honesty possible

Download our free guide: The Hidden Battle — A Practical Guide To Understanding Pornography Addiction And The Path To Healing at ValiantLiving.com/episode57

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What if the person who “has it all together” is carrying a secret that’s slowly dismantling their life? We sat down with Dr. Stephanie to unpack sex addiction without euphemisms or moralizing—how it hides, why it’s misdiagnosed, and what real recovery looks like when shame no longer runs the show.

We trace the path from early trauma to skewed arousal templates, showing why a “high sex drive” is not the same as compulsion. Dr. Stephanie walks through clear, addiction‑style criteria you can actually use, plus the questions most therapists avoid but must ask—frequency, rituals, search terms, and technology habits that turn secrecy into a second life. We explore non‑monogamy through the lens of consent and rule‑keeping, why pop psychology flattens people into labels, and how partners experience profound betrayal trauma long before they get language for it.

On the treatment side, we dig into modalities that move clients from performance to presence: somatic experiencing, psychodrama, inner‑child and parts‑based work, alongside structured group processes that bring shame into the light. We talk openly about chemsex and meth’s dangerous fusion with sexual behavior, the grief of letting go of the “big high,” and the daily practices that make recovery durable—aftercare, check‑ins, and living in consultation. Sexual sobriety here means integrity and safety, not celibacy, and rebuilding intimacy starts with trust the partner can feel in their body, not promises on paper.

If you’re a clinician, partner, or someone who wonders whether what you’re facing is addiction or avoidance, this conversation offers criteria, tools, and hope. Subscribe, share this episode with a colleague or friend, and leave a review to help more people find the support they need.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Your gut knows before the facts arrive. That’s where this story begins: a widow and mom who rebuilt her life, fell in love, and then felt the quiet signal that something was wrong. What followed wasn’t a straight line to healing. It was a maze of gaslighting, a painful trio of discoveries, and the realization that love alone can’t cure compulsive sexual behavior.

We walk through the exact moments that changed everything: the financial paper trail that made denial impossible, the decision to step out of detective mode, and the commitment to let professionals guide a structured disclosure. You’ll hear why separation and space were essential, how a CSAT therapist reframed betrayal trauma, and the practical boundaries that now keep the home safe: no cash, third‑party device accountability, and clear, immediate conversations. We talk trust as behavior over time, not vows; daily accountability instead of grand promises; and why your partner should not be your sobriety cop.

This isn’t a fairy tale or a lecture. It’s a real-time blueprint for partners and families facing sex addiction: how to protect your sanity, rebuild dignity, and decide your future without rushing the clock. We also explore the power of changing environments—retirement, a move across states, launching kids—and how new rhythms can lower triggers and raise connection. The result isn’t perfect. It’s honest, durable, and better than before.

If you’re navigating betrayal, wondering whether to stay, go, or pause, you’ll find validation, language, and next steps you can use today. Listen for the tools, stay for the hope, and leave with a plan.

If this helped you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review—your words help others find their way to hope.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Ever felt the pressure to be “on” every waking minute? We sat down with Rabbi and therapist Gary Katz to unpack the quiet cost of spiritual leadership: how constant likability, role-based identity, and unspoken expectations can turn faith into performance and push leaders toward secrecy. Gary opens up about his own crash into sex and love addiction, the spiral into substances, and the slow rebuild that followed—rooted in a radical idea: spiritual progress beats spiritual perfection.

Across our conversation, we map the terrain of process addictions and intimacy disorder in clear terms. If porn becomes a numbing loop, removing porn alone won’t solve the craving to shut down; the brain will find another off-switch. If affairs or attention are really about validation, new “respectable” behaviors can still feed the same hunger. Gary shows how the work is identifying your loop and building healthier ways to meet core needs without hiding. We also explore a common leadership blind spot: many of us can lead or follow, yet struggle to stand eye-to-eye as peers. That’s where healing happens—phone calls, coffee, shared truth without a stage.

We talk about the trap of curated vulnerability, the fatigue of 24/7 role performance, and the difference between toxic shame and the healthy kind that guides better choices. For leaders afraid of disqualification, Gary offers a measured path: hit pause on big decisions, anchor in real support, and relearn how to be a person before a title. Integrity isn’t spotless; it’s aligned. If you’ve been living split—polished outwardly, isolated inwardly—this conversation points to a way back to wholeness, connection, and a more honest faith.

Grab the free resource at ValiantLiving.com/episode54 and learn more about Gary’s work at intimacyrecovery.com. If this resonated, follow, share with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review to help others find their way to deeper recovery and real connection.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

The week Grace packed for college, Drew packed for rehab. What followed wasn’t a neat redemption arc, but a raw, practical path: loving leverage, clear boundaries, impact letters, and the slow re-growth of trust. We open with a feelings check—fear, shame, anger, gladness—then trace the hardest choice Grace made: asking her dad not to be part of move-in so she could protect her heart and he could face reality. That boundary didn’t just hold a line; it helped save a family.

Grace shares how college became her lifeline. New friends formed a portable sanctuary where she could tell the truth about addiction, grief, and hope without being defined by them. She names the paradox of healing—freedom away from home, sorrow when returning, and the relief of not managing a parent’s emotions. We walk through the impact letter process that precedes amends, how Drew sat with her words in group therapy, and why empathy must come before apology. A small crisis—a car accident—became a trust test he passed by simply showing up.

We dig into the interior shifts too. Drew describes surrendering control and the ego-breaking work of early treatment. Grace noticed a gentleness where force used to live, a willingness to listen rather than steer. Together we redefine “functional family” as one that admits the mess and tells the truth. Grace explains how crisis clarified her identity and sparked a calling to counsel kids and families—the very help she once needed. This is a story about recovering hearts and voices, not erasing the past but learning to carry it with honesty and hope.

If you’re a parent entering treatment or a student navigating the fallout, there’s practical help and real hope here. Grab our free resource for college students and young adults at ValiantLiving.com/episode 53, subscribe for more candid conversations, and leave a review to share what boundary or moment began your healing.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

December can light up old wounds as quickly as it lights the tree. We invited Dr. Jake Smith Jr. of Plumline to help us turn holiday triggers into a plan for presence, connection, and real growth. Together we unpack why family dynamics can collapse time in the brain, why anger is never alone, and how the eight core feelings give you a simple language to name what’s true and meet your needs without handing your heart to the room.

We walk through affect labeling step by step—name the feeling, find the need, choose a healthy action—and show how this loop cuts off codependency at the root. When emotions spike, you’ll learn the “window of tolerance” and the concept of charge, plus exactly what to do when you jump from a four to a ten. Hint: it’s not more thinking. It’s sensory grounding—slow walks in the cold, a long shower, doing the dishes, beginner yoga—and giving full attention to sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste until your body settles. We also talk about spiritual bypassing, why the opposite of addiction is connection, and how to make daily check-ins a gym for the heart.

If you’re a loved one managing fear, we map out the three buckets of control to build protection, help, and refuge before the first party: what you fully control (lodging, exits, check-ins), what you partially control (clear expectations), and what you can’t control (someone else’s sobriety). We reframe boundaries as self-limits that protect connection, like shortening the visit or staying off-site, without trying to control the family system. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s presence. Smell the cider, feel the blanket, see the lights, and let attention do its healing work.

Grab the free Eight Core Feelings resource at ValiantLiving.com/episode52, then listen, share with a friend who needs a steadier December, and leave a review so more people can find this conversation. Subscribe for more honest tools for recovery and relationships.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Healing doesn’t happen in perfect sync, and that’s okay. We explore tandem recovery with Brooke, our family advocate who coaches partners and parents through the messy, courageous work of rebuilding trust and balance after addiction. Think of a tandem bike: sometimes you steer, sometimes you push from behind, and either way the goal is shared direction. Brooke brings clear, compassionate guidance on how families can stop rescuing, start feeling, and move forward together without losing themselves.

We dig into emotional responsibility and the difference between healthy care and control. You’ll learn how to spot subtle codependency—automatic fixing, people pleasing, and quiet resentment—and replace it with boundaries rooted in intention and motivation. We also get practical about the body’s early warning signs: the held breath, the heat in your face, the stomach drop when the phone lights up. Those cues matter. Pausing to regulate before you answer is not avoidance; it’s wisdom. From there, we talk about natural consequences, how to accept an apology without erasing the harm, and why letting someone sit with shame can be an act of love.

One of the most powerful tools we unpack is digital detox during treatment. Creating space breaks the cycle of emotional management, reveals where each person has leaned on the other to self-soothe, and opens the door to interdependence. We close with a simple mantra: attraction, not promotion. Live the calm and clarity you hope to see. The pace of recovery will shift, leadership will change hands, and the ride won’t be perfectly even—but with honesty, boundaries, and shared purpose, you can pedal the same road and actually enjoy the view.

Subscribe for more conversations on recovery, family healing, and practical tools you can use today. If this resonated, share it with someone who needs hope and leave a review to help others find the show.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

The path through addiction and betrayal trauma isn't linear – it's messy, painful, and often seems impossible to navigate. In this raw and honest conversation, we sit down with a spouse whose husband went through the Valiant program to hear the story from her perspective.

She doesn't hold back as she describes life before treatment: the exhaustion of overfunctioning, the unpredictability of living with active addiction, and the constant fear of the next discovery or disclosure. For nearly a decade, she weathered cycles of betrayal, attempted repair, and eventual relapse that left her emotionally depleted and uncertain about their future.

The turning point came when she reached her limit and delivered what she now recognizes as "loving leverage" – he needed to leave their home, either for treatment or permanently. This boundary, while painful to establish, became the catalyst for profound healing on both sides. While he worked through the Valiant program, she embarked on her own tandem recovery journey through therapy, support groups, and intentional self-care.

What emerges from her story isn't just survival but transformation. She discovered strengths she never knew she possessed, gained confidence in setting boundaries, and learned to separate the addiction from the man she married. Today, their relationship features healthier communication, quicker emotional repair, and a vocabulary that allows them to navigate triggers without escalation.

For spouses currently drowning in the chaos of addiction, her message offers a lifeline of hope: you're not alone, healing is possible, and the work – while incredibly difficult – is worth it. By recognizing that neither person chose this struggle and that both are battling the same enemy (addiction itself), couples can find their way back to connection, trust, and a relationship that's healthier than it's ever been.

Have you experienced betrayal trauma in your relationship? What boundaries have helped your healing process? Connect with us and join our community of people walking similar paths toward recovery and rebuilding.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Ever been told that “real” trauma work should leave you wrung out and wrecked? We take that myth apart and show a different path—one built on careful pacing, body awareness, and tiny changes that add up. With training across EMDR, IFS, neurofeedback, and trauma‑sensitive yoga, our guest guides a live Internal Family Systems demo that turns abstract ideas into a concrete experience you can feel.

We start by swapping “triggers” for trailheads and using a simple life satisfaction check to find where to begin. A tight chest and tense shoulders open a path to a childhood scarcity memory and a protector who keeps every plate spinning. That drive to hustle isn’t random; it’s guarding against shame and the terror of being unlovable or losing belonging. You’ll hear how work can become a numbing strategy, why avoidance and the inner critic quietly slow healing, and how to tell the difference between productive discomfort and harmful pain.

Then comes the turn: self‑energy. When we access that lighter, hopeful, creative core, protectors often want to help in new ways—without the exhaustion. Instead of overnight reinvention, we lean on cognitive neuroscience: 1–3% changes. Track the moments you fear disappointing your family. Notice when people‑pleasing spikes. Name the inner critic, and pause before numbing. Observation builds choice, and choice builds momentum.

If IFS resonates, we share practical next steps to find certified support via the IFS Institute and high‑quality resources from Richard Schwartz. No plastic‑banana knockoffs, no heroics—just honest work at a humane pace. If this conversation helped you see your patterns with more kindness, follow the show, share it with someone who needs a gentler approach, and leave a review to help more people find it.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What if the opposite of addiction isn't sobriety, but connection? Scott Davis, Chief Clinical Officer at Valiant Living, opens up about this profound truth and much more in our latest episode, sharing wisdom gained from years of guiding men through recovery.

With vulnerable honesty, Scott addresses how we can find peace during tumultuous times by seeking authentic connection rather than isolation. "The best thing you can do is limit your social media," he advises, suggesting instead that we reach for human connection that transcends political divisions and touches something deeper – our shared humanity.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Scott reveals the transformative power of group therapy. For many men entering recovery, the thought of sharing their deepest struggles in a group setting triggers intense fear. Yet Scott demonstrates how this very vulnerability creates the healing environment so many desperately need. "If it's in your head, it's a dangerous place," he explains, highlighting how bringing thoughts into the open – whether through writing or sharing with trusted others – creates clarity and relief.

Perhaps most powerful is Scott's exploration of shame, which he calls "terminally shameful" rather than "terminally unique." The shame that makes us feel fundamentally flawed and isolated becomes, ironically, the very thing that can connect us when shared in a safe group setting. "When somebody shares their pain with you, it is a sacred thing," Scott reflects, describing the "tragic beauty" of witnessing others' vulnerability and recognizing our shared struggles.

Scott also unpacks how individual therapy works alongside group therapy at Valiant, preparing clients to bring their deepest wounds into a community where deeper healing happens. Even conflict within groups becomes an opportunity for growth, often reflecting unresolved family-of-origin issues that can finally be addressed in a supportive environment.

Listen now to experience this profound conversation about connection, vulnerability, and the courage to be seen. Whether you're struggling personally or supporting someone who is, Scott's wisdom offers hope that healing is possible when we brave the journey together.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Recovery isn't a solo journey—it's a family transformation. This profound conversation with addiction specialists Madison Burke and Henry Maxwell from Maxwell Recovery Services reveals how the healing process must extend beyond the individual to encompass the entire family system.

Madison shares her personal story of using substances to escape reality after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 12. Her recovery journey illuminated how addiction manifested not just in substances but in relationships and work—"it ran through my veins in everything that I did." Henry describes his path from IV heroin addiction at 17 to becoming a recovery professional, explaining the powerful "outside-in paradigm" that drives addictive behavior: the desperate attempt to fill internal wounds with external solutions.

The specialists offer a revolutionary perspective on family involvement in recovery. Rather than viewing the person struggling with addiction as "the problem," they advocate for seeing addiction as a family system issue requiring everyone's participation in the healing process. Madison notes how families often orbit around the person in crisis, leaving them unsure of their identity when that person enters treatment. This insight reveals why family members need their own recovery work—not just for their wellbeing, but as a powerful model that "makes an impact" on their loved one's journey.

Perhaps most helpfully, they reframe the concept of boundaries as "limits"—recognizing when we've reached the end of what we can safely provide rather than attempting to control outcomes. Modern interventions have evolved far beyond the dramatic confrontations portrayed in media, now emphasizing collaboration, transparency, and "leading with love" while maintaining necessary limits. The experts share that these conversations often go more smoothly than anticipated because the person struggling may secretly want help but doesn't know how to ask.

For families feeling overwhelmed, the message is clear: you're not supposed to know how to handle addiction. The healing begins by reaching out for professional guidance, building community, and developing the skills to cultivate resilience. Despite the challenges, addiction is highly treatable, with recovery possible for both individuals and their families when they embrace the journey from chaos to strategy, from crisis to connection.

What step will you take today toward your family's healing journey?

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Everyone carries internal narratives that shape how we see ourselves, others, and the world. These stories—often formed in childhood and reinforced through years of living—can either liberate us or keep us trapped in cycles of shame, fear, and self-doubt.

In this powerful conversation, Michael Dinneen and Drew Powell dig deep into how these narratives influence our recovery journeys. Dinneen vulnerably shares his ongoing struggle with a "younger son" identity despite 33 years of sobriety and significant professional success. "How much hustle I've gone into in my own life," he reflects, "has been this overcompensation for this kid that thinks he's unworthy and just messed up."

The discussion takes a transformative turn when they explore the parable of the Prodigal Son from a fresh perspective. In Western culture, we focus on the wayward son, but Eastern traditions call it "The Parable of the Running Father"—shifting attention to the parent who desperately loves rather than the child who strayed. This reframing offers a powerful metaphor for recovery: perhaps our healing comes not from fixing ourselves but from allowing ourselves to be seen differently.

Both men examine how our protective mechanisms—whether withdrawing completely or charging forward with excessive intensity—often represent polarized reactions to fear rather than expressions of our authentic selves. "Neither of those are really the essence of me," Dinneen observes about his tendency toward either isolation or aggression, "but I think they are me."

The conversation reveals that true transformation requires courage to question everything—our perceptions, reactions, and deeply held beliefs about who we are. The journey isn't about arriving at a destination where struggle ceases but developing a different relationship with our internal experience. As Dinneen powerfully concludes: "The alternative is you just keep reinventing a more savvy way to outmaneuver yourself...and it only lands you temporarily in the sweet spot."

Whether you're in recovery or simply seeking a more authentic life, this episode offers profound insights into breaking free from limiting narratives and discovering who you truly are beyond the stories you've been telling yourself.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What does an effective intervention truly look like? Beyond the dramatic portrayals in television shows lies a thoughtful, compassionate approach that Stephen Wilkins has perfected over more than two decades as a certified clinical interventionist.

Stephen takes us behind the scenes of what he calls "interventions with integrity," revealing a process that begins long before the actual confrontation. The preparation involves seven to eight hours with family members, carefully crafting letters that affirm love rather than simply highlighting damage. "An intervention letter is about how much I love you, happy memories that I have of you," Stephen explains, contrasting this with harsher approaches that focus solely on consequences.

The podcast uncovers the profound emotional dynamics at play during interventions, illustrated through powerful stories like that of an alcoholic attorney whose defenses crumbled when her tough Marine grandfather showed unexpected vulnerability. Her response—"What took you so long?"—captures the complex reality that many addicted individuals secretly want help but remain trapped in ambivalence.

Perhaps most illuminating is Stephen's multi-goal model for interventions. While getting someone into treatment remains important, equally crucial goals include challenging learned helplessness, beginning to heal family relationships, and surprisingly, giving the addicted person back some control. "Addicts and alcoholics don't have a lot of control in their life, but they have a delusion that they're in charge," Stephen observes, explaining how his approach acknowledges this paradox.

For families wondering if intervention might help their loved one, Stephen offers clear signs to watch for: increasing isolation, abandoning previously enjoyed activities, and the telling presence of shame around substance use. These indicators suggest someone may be ready for the loving confrontation that an intervention provides.

Ready to learn more about helping a loved one struggling with addiction? Contact us at 720-756-7941 or email admissions@valiantliving.com to discover how we might support your journey toward recovery and healing.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

When Dan Griffin found himself carving "F YOU" into his arm as a teenage boy who hadn't hit puberty, he wasn't just acting out—he was experiencing the profound disconnect between his authentic self and society's expectations of manhood. This pivotal moment led to a lifelong journey of understanding what he calls "the water we swim in"—the invisible but powerful gender conditioning that shapes how men experience everything, especially recovery.

Drawing from 30 years of sobriety and expertise in men's trauma work, Griffin articulates a revolutionary perspective on masculinity that offers hope for men struggling to reconcile recovery principles with their gender conditioning. "The man rules are for one core reason," Griffin explains, "safety." But these same rules—don't cry, don't ask for help, don't show vulnerability—directly contradict what recovery demands, creating what he calls "psychological dissonance" that can derail healing.

Griffin's concept of "conscious masculinity" offers a powerful alternative. Rather than rejecting masculinity outright or remaining trapped in rigid gender scripts, men can learn to make enlightened choices about their expression. Through awareness, acceptance, and action, men can reclaim their full emotional range without shame. "We don't need permission to be ourselves," Griffin asserts. "We need to let go of the lie that says it's not okay."

This conversation dismantles the false gendering of emotions and reveals surprising research showing baby boys display more emotionality than girls before conditioning takes effect. For anyone working with men in recovery or navigating their own healing journey, Griffin's insights illuminate why vulnerability feels so threatening and how men can finally integrate their authentic selves with their recovery. By understanding the "water we swim in," we gain the power to move beyond it—into a masculinity defined not by cultural limitation but by conscious choice.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Have you ever considered that addiction isn't just about substances? Beneath the surface of many addictive behaviors lies something profoundly misunderstood—process addiction. Join host Drew Powell as he sits down with therapists Dan and Jill from Valiant Living to unpack this complex topic with remarkable candor and expertise.

"The drug is between your ears," explains Dan, highlighting how process addictions like sex addiction, gambling, internet/gaming, and shopping create the same neurological pathways as substance use, but the source is your own brain producing dopamine. This fascinating conversation reveals why these addictions are often missed or minimized despite their devastating impact on relationships and mental health.

The therapists explain that at its core, every addiction is fundamentally an intimacy disorder—a broken connection. The addiction becomes the primary relationship, pushing loved ones aside as walls of secrecy and shame grow taller. "Your addiction wants you alone," Dan shares, describing how isolation feeds the cycle. While substances numb feelings, process addictions often seek to create feelings, making them particularly complex to treat.

For family members, the discussion offers invaluable insights into recognizing warning signs and supporting recovery without becoming detective-investigators themselves. The specialists emphasize that recovery requires addressing the "why" beneath behaviors, not just managing symptoms, and that the brain needs 75-120 days just to reach baseline functioning where deeper therapeutic work can begin.

Whether you're personally struggling with process addiction, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking understanding, this episode delivers profound wisdom about the path toward genuine connection and freedom. As one recovering addict shares, "My worst day in recovery is better than my best day in addiction." Discover why true strength means asking for help and how community transforms isolation into healing.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

"I'll have four years in June," Chris tells us, a milestone that seemed impossible when he was consuming 1.75 liters of alcohol daily and taking shots before even getting in the shower for work. His journey through addiction's darkest depths—including two stays in intensive care on life support—to lasting recovery offers both hope and unflinching honesty about the transformation process.

The turning point came during what Chris describes as a "fourth dimension" experience, where he felt himself floating above his body while someone else made the call for help. This supernatural moment led him to detox and eventually to Valiant Recovery, where despite initial resistance, he made a critical decision: "You're all in or you're all out." His full commitment to the program became the foundation for his recovery journey.

What makes Chris's story particularly valuable is his candor about recovery's ongoing challenges. While sobriety brought profound gifts—rebuilding his marriage, purchasing his first home at 52, career advancement, and a spiritual connection—he doesn't sugarcoat the difficulties. "The drink for me is easy. It's all the other stuff that's still hard," he admits, explaining how learning to process emotions without numbing them remains challenging even years into recovery.

Chris emphasizes the vital importance of community, stating "it's absolutely impossible to do any of this by yourself." The relationships formed during treatment have become lifelong connections—people who understand his experience and provide support when needed. His recovery program has evolved over time, adapting to different seasons of life while maintaining sobriety as his top priority.

For those new in recovery, Chris offers wisdom earned through experience: trust the process, embrace discomfort, establish boundaries, give yourself and others grace, and remember that progress matters more than perfection. His story demonstrates that while the recovery journey isn't easy, the ability to face life's challenges sober brings a sense of accomplishment unlike any other.

Reach out to someone who understands when struggling. As Chris says, "If you put three or four [bad days] together, you better be calling somebody."

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Connect with Jason Polk

The addictive patterns that tear relationships apart can actually become the path to deeper connection when partners learn to face them together. In this deeply moving episode, couple therapists Lana Isaacson and Jason Polk share professional wisdom and personal experiences about the complex journey of recovery within committed relationships.

They introduce the concept of "the addiction dance"—those unconscious, destructive patterns couples unknowingly co-create that keep them trapped in cycles of disconnection. Both therapists candidly discuss their own experiences with addiction and family systems, demonstrating how healing occurs when we move beyond shame to examine what drives our behaviors.

"The pattern is the enemy, not your partner," becomes a revolutionary frame that allows couples to stand together rather than against each other. This shift creates space for vulnerability, which both therapists identify as the essential ingredient for rebuilding trust. Through powerful examples, they illustrate how true healing happens when a partner's pain is fully witnessed rather than fixed or dismissed.

Particularly moving is the discussion about disclosure in recovery relationships—that terrifying process of allowing yourself to be fully known after years of hiding. As one partner shared, "When you experience love for the first time because they've seen all of you and still choose you...that's another level I want for everyone."

Whether you're navigating recovery as a couple, supporting loved ones through addiction, or simply wanting healthier relationship patterns, this conversation offers practical wisdom and profound hope. Call us at 720-756-7941 to learn how Valiant Living can support your journey toward authentic connection.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Michael Wagner sits across from host Drew Powell, his nervous energy palpable despite 45 years of sobriety under his belt. There's a beautiful vulnerability as Wagner reveals the painful tapestry of his past – growing up with an alcoholic, mentally ill mother whose unpredictable violence shaped his early years. The moment he shares how he broke his infant son's leg during a drunken fall down the stairs, still keeping the tiny cast as a reminder, the room feels charged with honest reflection.

What makes Wagner's testimony so powerful is that even at 82, he continues experiencing breakthrough healing moments. Just months before this recording, he had a profound realization about compassion for his mother that fundamentally changed how he processed decades-old trauma. "How could my children have any compassion for me if I don't have compassion for my mother?" he asks, revealing how this insight helped break generational cycles of pain.

Wagner doesn't sugar-coat recovery's challenges. He speaks candidly about the shame that plagued him and the professional help required to process his wounds. Yet his story sparkles with moments of synchronicity and higher power intervention that feel almost magical – like randomly meeting the son of a man who helped him decades earlier, or twice being saved from the Vietnam draft by the same medical condition and doctor.

The rewards of Wagner's 45-year sobriety journey shine brightest when he speaks of his children. The son whose leg he broke is now a respected Buddhism authority who spends quality time with his father. His other children have thrived despite the challenges of their early years. "I didn't fuck him up," Wagner says with wonder and gratitude about his son, "I did for a while, but he got over it."

Wagner leaves listeners with a powerful message about our inherent worth: "You are magnificent, and all mankind will be judged on its likeness to you." His testimony stands as evidence that no matter how broken we feel, healing is possible when we embrace recovery, seek help, and remain patient with the process. Subscribe now to hear more transformative stories of healing and hope.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Unlock the secrets to inner peace and present living in this engaging episode of the Valiant Living podcast! Join us as we dive into mindfulness, connecting with our true selves, and uncovering the transformative power of meditation. Our hosts guide you through personal journeys and explorations of various mindfulness practices that can easily be integrated into your daily routine. 

Discover how simple acts of awareness can drastically improve your mental health and emotional well-being. We discuss the common misconceptions about meditation and show how being present doesn't have to feel daunting. With insights from our wellness director, you’ll learn the significant benefits of mindfulness, from enhancing concentration to reducing stress. 

Stay tuned for a special guided morning meditation focused on gratitude, helping you set a positive tone for your day. This practice encourages awareness of the beautiful moments in life that we often overlook, reminding you to embrace each day with joy and intention. 

Let us invite you to embark on this journey of mindful living together. Whether you're new to mindfulness or seeking deeper clarity, our conversations are designed to educate, empower, and inspire you to live your best life. Tune in, and let’s cultivate peace and presence, one breath at a time. Be sure to subscribe, share with friends, and help us spread the message of hope and healing!

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Discover how spirituality can be a lifeline in the journey of recovery as we share powerful narratives of rebirth and transformation. This episode of the Valiant Living Podcast features Ryan, a dedicated leader within the Free Recovery Community. He opens up about his personal path to sobriety, which began on January 7th, 2013, and highlights the critical role that faith played in overcoming addiction. Alongside Ryan, I recount my own experiences as a United Methodist pastor struggling with alcohol addiction and the moment my wife's intervention propelled me towards a newfound clarity and purpose.

We navigate the complex tapestry of questioning faith during times of pain and crisis, emphasizing the importance of asking difficult questions in safe, supportive spaces. Through candid storytelling, we unravel the layers of shame, fear, and identity crises that often accompany addiction, illustrating how sharing these vulnerabilities can lead to profound healing. By drawing on biblical narratives and personal experiences, we explore how recovery mirrors the journey of the Prodigal Son, where unconditional love offers a homecoming for those who have lost their way.

Our conversation takes us on a journey of building and expanding recovery communities that prioritize belonging over belief. Through strategic partnerships with organizations like the Phoenix and CARE Colorado Artists in Recovery, we aim to create environments where individuals can find joy in sobriety through activities such as sober open mic nights and trauma-informed yoga. This episode is an invitation to view recovery as an ongoing process filled with grace and celebration, as we lay plans for launching ten new recovery communities in the next decade, starting with Chicago, and emphasizing the importance of service and presence in one's ongoing journey to wholeness.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

After years of immersing himself in the world of professional sports, Glenn Hadley had to face the truth about his identity beyond the tennis court. His journey from a chicken farm in East Texas to the highest levels of professional tennis is more than just a tale of athletic triumph; it's a story of personal growth and self-realization. Join us as Glenn shares the profound challenges that come with being defined by a single identity and the transformative power of understanding oneself beyond achievements and titles.

Glenn's story takes an intriguing turn as he shares insights from a retreat where participants let go of their professional identities to forge authentic connections. Inspired by Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, Glenn explores the idea of honoring different facets of oneself, which allowed him to experience a newfound sense of freedom and self-acceptance. By acknowledging all parts of his identity, he discovered the importance of being present and the liberation that comes from genuine human interactions.

The episode concludes with an exploration of Glenn's path in recovery and self-discovery through frameworks like the 12-Step Fellowship and Alcoholics Anonymous. His journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, highlighting the shift from fear-driven living to intentional presence and contentment. Glenn’s involvement in a nonprofit promoting sobriety at raves further illustrates the power of community and support, offering a hopeful message for those on a similar path.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What happens when a life of perfectionism and control spirals into a battle with alcoholism? Join us as we explore this profound transformation with Sherry Young, a leader in addiction recovery who reveals her personal journey from unexpected addiction to inspiring resilience. Sherry recounts her pivotal moment attending her first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting after a series of car accidents, a step that marked the beginning of a life-saving recovery process. Her candid story offers a beacon of hope, emphasizing the power of surrender and community support for those facing similar struggles.

In a world where small business pressures can stifle creativity, Sherry and Michael's journey highlights the transformative power of collaboration. Discover how Sherry's introduction of Michael to a nationwide network of practitioners became vital for the survival of Valiant, redefining success in the private practice industry. Together, we unravel the need for a holistic approach to behavioral health, advocating for personalized treatment plans free from conflicts of interest. This episode envisions a future in recovery defined by grace, acceptance, and genuine connection, breaking away from rigid conventions and fostering a community committed to healing families and redefining recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Supporting loved ones in crisis is no easy feat, and in this thought-provoking episode of the Valiant Living podcast, I, Drew Powell, open up about my personal experience alongside special guest Jackie Brewster. We share the heartfelt journey of helping my wife, Jamie, through a tumultuous period of emotional turmoil while I was in rehab at Valiant Living. Jackie and her husband, Steven Brewster, were pillars of strength and compassion for Jamie, providing her with a safe haven when she needed it most. Our conversation dives into the crucial elements of creating a supportive environment, emphasizing the power of presence, neutrality, and undistracted communication.

Join us as we explore the profound role of personal boundaries, faith, and surrender in managing emotional stress. Jackie and I discuss the delicate art of maintaining healthy relationships amidst recovery by building trust and understanding past traumas. We highlight the immense value of holding space for friends and family, offering support without letting their struggles consume our own well-being. Personal experiences are shared, shedding light on overcoming feelings of disqualification and the transformative power of supportive relationships in one's healing journey.

Listeners are invited to discover how tools like the Enneagram and attachment theory can foster self-awareness and connection. We examine how these frameworks allow us to understand the motivations behind our behaviors and fears, paving the way for personal growth and deeper empathy in relationships. From exploring addiction and coping mechanisms to the dynamics of attachment, this episode is a testament to the mission of Valiant Living: uplifting individuals towards peace, freedom, and thriving lives. We encourage our audience to seek support, establish boundaries, and embrace the power of grace in their personal journeys.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Seasoned marriage and family therapist Chris Anderson joins us for a compelling discussion on the multifaceted world of addiction and recovery. Chris, a pioneer in telehealth therapy specializing in process addiction and gambling, shares his journey from the bustling streets of Chicago back to his Texas roots. Discover how his early shift to virtual therapy has allowed him to reach and support individuals across the nation, offering a unique perspective on the benefits and challenges of this mode of counseling in a post-pandemic world.

Together with Chris, we unravel the intricate labyrinth of gambling addiction, where the lure of winning perpetuates a dangerous cycle unlike any other substance addiction. With personal anecdotes and professional insights, we explore the often-hidden nature of gambling's impact—not just on the individual but on their entire family. Uncover the devastating paradox gamblers face, believing that their next win might solve all their problems, and learn about the essential role of acknowledging and naming these struggles to commence true healing.

Gambling addiction also poses unique challenges to family dynamics, often leaving loved ones blindsided by financial catastrophes. We recount harrowing stories that highlight the severe repercussions of this hidden addiction and the emotional turmoil it inflicts on relationships. Chris and I emphasize the critical importance of community support networks like 12-step programs in navigating this treacherous path. As we spotlight the power of facing these issues head-on, we remind listeners that the heart of recovery lies in overcoming the very challenges that threaten to consume us.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What if your fear of missing out on social events could cost you your life? That’s what happened to our guest, who found themselves at rock bottom after a life-threatening hospital stay due to acute liver failure in December 2022. This gripping episode unpacks their journey from the high of youthful partying to the depths of addiction, before realizing the deeper fear of missing out on life's meaningful moments, like being there for their children. We share a profound testament to the human spirit's resilience and the critical decisions that spark a path toward healing.

Join us as we navigate the challenges and triumphs of recovery. Our guest takes us through their transformative experience with the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) at Valiant, shedding light on the importance of community and connection in overcoming addiction. The program provided not just physical detox, but a family-like support system that was essential in learning to live sober. The stories of camaraderie and shared experiences illustrate the power of collective strength and motivation in the journey to sobriety, providing profound insights into the recovery process.

A life of sobriety isn’t just about quitting substances; it’s about embracing authenticity and finding fulfillment in simplicity. We explore the transformative power of honesty and transparency, with contributions from Brady's fiancée, Jenny, and Brady's father, who share their insights and personal achievements in sobriety. This episode emphasizes the lifelong tools of recovery, like honesty and self-care, that foster personal growth and the joy of living an addiction-free life. We delve into the liberating feeling of living openly and authentically, inspiring listeners to embrace their own potential for transformation.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Have you ever wondered what it truly means to support a loved one through addiction recovery? Join us as Kelly, the first spouse to share her journey on the Valiant Living podcast, opens up about her experiences. She candidly reveals the emotional challenges and pivotal moments that led her husband to seek treatment at Valiant Living, spotlighting the often-unseen struggles faced by spouses and families, especially the impact on young children. Through her heartfelt narrative, Kelly underscores the critical importance of support systems and the healing process for both the partner in recovery and the family left behind.

Throughout our conversation, Kelly offers valuable insights into the emotional rollercoaster of detachment, boundaries, and self-care. She shares her journey of learning healthy detachment and the personal growth that came with not rescuing her husband from treatment. The discussion expands on the complexities of maintaining household stability while embracing the transformative power of personal well-being. Kelly talks about how structured communication with therapists and family support calls can offer crucial insights and emotional backing, emphasizing the significance of maintaining connections even during periods of separation.

Finally, we delve into the empowerment that comes with personal growth and the courage to trust the recovery process despite the fear of relapse. Kelly's reflections reveal the importance of balancing trust and skepticism while navigating early recovery as a spouse. Her story serves as both a beacon of hope and a powerful testament to resilience, encouraging listeners to prioritize their own healing and recognize the ever-evolving journey of recovery advocacy. Whether your relationship withstands the trials of addiction or forges a new path, Kelly’s journey is a reminder of the strength found in personal healing and the ongoing commitment to self-care.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Unlock the secrets of your nervous system and transform your understanding of personal safety and connection, as we journey through the enlightening universe of polyvagal theory alongside a knowledgeable member of our Valiant team. This episode promises to broaden your perspective on how the autonomic nervous system, especially the vagus nerve, serves as a crucial link between the brain and body. We explore the foundational work of Stephen Porges and its clinical adaptations by Deb Dana, revealing how these insights can enhance our everyday interactions and even influence the environments we create for comfort and healing.

Guided by engaging stories and practical strategies, we examine the three states of our autonomic nervous system: social engagement, fight or flight, and shutdown. Discover how recognizing these states and finding "glimmers" of safety can be transformative, especially for those in recovery. The conversation seamlessly connects the dots between nervous system states, addiction recovery, and the importance of self-care and self-awareness. Through exercises, meditation, and self-compassion, we demonstrate how managing these states can lead to emotional resilience and a more balanced life.

Finally, the episode delves into the dynamics of healthy relationships and co-regulation, essential for recovery and emotional well-being. By sharing personal experiences and insights, we highlight the importance of understanding our own and our partners' nervous systems to foster connection and navigate conflicts. With resources like Stephen Porges' "Our Polyvagal World" and Deb Dana's "Anchored," listeners are equipped with tools to further explore these concepts and enhance their emotional intelligence and relationship dynamics. Join us for an enriching discussion that underscores the power of self-awareness and compassion on your journey to emotional and relational growth.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What happens when an interventionist with two decades of experience opens up about her own journey to recovery? Meet Wendy Stine, a seasoned expert who once stood on the other side of the intervention process. From hitting rock bottom to discovering a transformative path at a residential program in Estes Park, Wendy's story illuminates how personal struggles can ignite a passion for helping others. In this episode, Wendy takes us through her metamorphosis from client to professional, shedding light on the powerful impact of realized dreams in recovery.

What if the key to successful recovery lies not just with the individual but within the family? We explore this provocative question by diving into the nuanced role family dynamics play in addiction recovery. Wendy and I discuss the importance of viewing the family as the primary client, tackling issues like codependency and generational addiction through therapy and educational programs. Drawing from personal anecdotes, we reveal how healing interventions within a family can catalyze change for everyone involved, providing a more holistic path to recovery.

Mental health struggles often come with a sense of urgency, especially when mood changes or suicidal ideations are present. Wendy shares her deeply personal story of losing her brother to suicide, highlighting the necessity of timely and compassionate interventions. We dissect the emotional and logistical aspects of these interventions, emphasizing how they can serve as pivotal turning points for hope and healing. By supporting both the individual and the family, we offer a blueprint for navigating the challenging yet rewarding journey toward long-term recovery and wellness.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What if the key to healing family wounds lies in the simple act of conversation? Join us for an emotionally charged episode as I sit down with my dad, Gary, to explore the transformative power of fatherhood. With a rich background as a pastor and a deep connection to Southern gospel music, Gary shares his wisdom on the importance of grace and understanding in father-child relationships. Together, we open up about our own experiences, highlighting how fathers can profoundly shape their children's lives.

In a candid discussion, we navigate the deeply emotional terrain of family wounds and reconciliation. Reflecting on my childhood, including the pain of church splits and my driven nature leading to burnout, we delve into the significant impact these experiences had on my personal and professional life. My dad offers his heartfelt perspective on witnessing my struggles, especially during my disqualification from ministry and rehabilitation. Through our conversation, we underscore the importance of honest and open communication in the healing process.

Our dialogue also turns to the role of faith and community in recovery. We scrutinize the shortcomings of modern evangelical churches in addressing issues of brokenness and addiction, contrasting them with the supportive environments found in 12-step programs. Gary and I discuss the necessity of unconditional love, patience, and prayer in supporting a loved one through recovery. By sharing our journey, we hope to inspire a vision for a church that fully embraces brokenness and offers a pathway to healing, breaking harmful cycles and fostering healthier patterns for future generations.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Have you ever felt trapped by societal expectations and struggled to find your true self? Join us as we sit down with Bob "Bobby" Ferguson, a remarkable entrepreneur and dear friend of the Valiant Living Podcast. Bobby opens up about his privileged Manhattan upbringing and the relentless pressure to fit in that led him down a dark path of substance abuse. His raw and honest reflections on his early encounters with drugs shed light on the complexities of addiction and the vital need for open dialogue and support.

In this heartfelt episode, Bobby recounts his chaotic journey through addiction, the grueling cycles of rehab, and the pivotal moment at Hazelden in Minnesota that changed everything. A counselor's tough love and the power of peer feedback became the turning point in my path to recovery. Bobby discusses the transformative role of community and the supportive environments that enabled him to rebuild his lives far from the toxic influences of his past. 

We dive deep into the evolution of addiction treatment, emphasizing the importance of real-life recovery experiences and long-term care. From the creation of Jaywalker Lodge to the implementation of the Open Community Model of Care, we highlight the value of honesty, transparency, and peer support in achieving sustainable recovery. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with resilience, hope, and the enduring power of community to overcome addiction. Join the Valiant Living community as we strive to educate, encourage, and empower individuals on their journey towards peace and freedom.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What happens when love, addiction, and recovery intersect? Join us as we welcome Dave and Carla, who recount their extraordinary 21-year journey that began with a chance meeting at the San Francisco airport. Carla reflects on the thoughtful nature of Dave that won her heart early on, while they both share memories of a life filled with travel and joy. However, their idyllic beginning faced an unexpected storm as Dave’s addiction rapidly intensified, leading to immense challenges as they navigated the pressures of merging their lives and Dave’s business decisions.

Carla and Dave’s story doesn’t end in hardship but transforms into a tale of resilience and recovery. Carla reveals how her approach matured over the years, from walking on eggshells around Dave’s addiction to establishing clear boundaries and taking decisive action. The couple emphasizes the critical role of family involvement and community support in the recovery process, with special acknowledgment of programs like Valiant’s family night. Dave opens up about his rough patches and the unwavering support from Carla and their daughter Coco, illustrating the power of mutual support, clear communication, and set boundaries.

In the final part of our conversation, the focus shifts to rebuilding trust and the delicate balance of tough love with genuine care. Dave explains his decision to seek help at Valiant and underscores how trust played a pivotal role in his recovery. Carla distinguishes between being in recovery and simply being sober, highlighting the importance of community involvement and personal choice. They share their experiences of navigating tough love, reestablishing family traditions, and maintaining an open door for support, showing that life's challenges can be tackled with shared experiences and relentless effort. Tune in to be inspired by their compelling story and learn the collective effort required to sustain a supportive environment for recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What if your recovery from career struggles could unlock a transformative journey towards mental well-being? Join us as we share Peter's incredible ascent from uncertain career beginnings to becoming Valiant Living's Chief Marketing Officer. Peter opens up about how career counseling at Valiant not only guided him professionally but also set him on a path to becoming a leader at Valiant Living. His story underscores the importance of hands-on experience and compassionate human interaction in both career and personal development.

Navigating the mental health field while preserving one's own mental wellness is no small feat. We delve into the double-edged sword of finding recovery benefits in such work, balanced against the looming risk of burnout. Listen to poignant anecdotes, including Peter's own transformative experience stemming from a bad acid trip at a Grateful Dead concert, which led him to profound personal growth. We emphasize the critical role of setting boundaries, practicing vulnerability, and learning from life-changing events.

From battling panic attacks to overcoming phobias, this episode offers a treasure trove of practical coping mechanisms. Discover the profound impact of childhood trauma on adult relationships and life choices through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Peter's journey of embracing his internal parts and integrating them into a cohesive whole provides invaluable insights into achieving mental harmony and a fulfilling life. Don't miss this heartfelt exploration of healing, self-discovery, and the power of resilience.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Reintegrating back home after treatment isn't just about returning to familiar surroundings—it's about navigating the complexities of relationships, especially when co-parenting and communication with ex-partners are involved. Jill joins us on this episode of the Valiant Living podcast to share her invaluable expertise in guiding individuals and their families through these challenging transitions. As the lead clinical overseeing clinical and case management at Valiant Living, Jill offers strategies and insights that have not only been transformative for countless others but have also played a pivotal role in my own recovery journey.

Jill's evolving role at Valiant Living includes juggling responsibilities from housing support to individual therapy and facilitating support groups. She emphasizes the importance of a robust support system and following through with program recommendations to increase the chances of rebuilding relationships and sustaining recovery. Tune in to hear Jill’s candid advice, her experiences with co-parenting challenges, and why effective communication is key to a smoother reintegration process. Her impactful guidance has been a beacon of hope and transformation for many, and this episode is brimming with takeaways that could make a significant difference in your journey or that of someone you love.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Ever wondered how one can juggle a passion for music, a taxing day job, and the emotionally taxing role of supporting a loved one through addiction? Meet Tyi, an extraordinary member of the Valiant Living team, who shares his inspiring journey with us. Tyi's story begins with a loving family and an undeniable talent for music, mastering 14 instruments by his high school graduation. As he navigates his whirlwind life, Tyi provides invaluable insights into maintaining joy and purpose, even when faced with the challenges of addiction and recovery.

Grasp the emotional rollercoaster of addiction and recovery through the touching account of a father’s unwavering love and a desperate plea for his son's life. Tyi and our team delve into the intricate dynamics of supportive relationships, the transformative power of desperation, and the significant impact on families dealing with addiction. Hear about the personal sacrifices, the heartache, and the moments of hope that keep families going, even in the darkest times. Through these deeply personal anecdotes, we shed light on the resilience needed to support a loved one through their recovery.

Discover the empowering journey of setting boundaries and reclaiming one’s identity amid the chaos of addiction. We explore the crucial steps towards self-empowerment, from recognizing and overcoming codependency to the importance of finding supportive communities. Tyi's narrative beautifully illustrates the impact of prioritizing self-care and setting clear expectations, not just for the loved one struggling with addiction but for oneself as well. Join us for this poignant and powerful episode that is a testament to the strength and resilience required to navigate the turbulent waters of addiction and recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What if you could understand and heal the deepest parts of yourself that have been shaped by trauma and addiction? Join us on the Valiant Living Podcast as we welcome back Michael Simms, a dedicated therapist with over 11 years of sobriety. With a heartfelt journey from the service industry to becoming the Director of Outpatient Services for the Meadows in Denver, Michael shares how the tragic loss of his cousin and his sister's struggle with addiction fueled his passion for therapy. His story is one of resilience, recovery, and unwavering commitment to helping others find healing.

In our conversation, we explore the transformative power of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, delving into advanced clinical modalities like Polyvagal Theory and NARM. Michael explains how recognizing and compassionately addressing the different parts of ourselves formed through trauma can lead to profound healing. We discuss the importance of understanding clients' nervous systems and how this knowledge can guide them through states of fight, flight, or dissociation to a place of relaxation and safety. The emphasis on compassion within IFS therapy is a crucial element, shedding light on the necessity of integrating even the less pleasant parts of oneself for effective recovery.

Further, we delve into the concept of the "core self" within IFS therapy, contrasting it with the subpersonalities developed as defense mechanisms. Michael highlights the eight C's—such as connection, confidence, and compassion—that help bring forth the core self, free from past burdens. Through heartfelt personal anecdotes and professional insights, Michael illustrates how addressing childhood wounds, navigating inner conflicts, and embracing community support play pivotal roles in fostering growth and emotional resilience. This episode offers an illuminating look at the journey of healing addiction and perfectionism with IFS, providing listeners with valuable insights and hope.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Ever wondered what happens when an NFL star tackles his toughest opponent yet—addiction? Former NFL running back Montee Ball joins us on the Valiant Living Podcast to share his remarkable life story. From the excitement of night games and winning a Big Ten Championship to the often unseen struggles of addiction, Montee opens up about his journey with raw honesty. He offers a unique perspective on why he finds the atmosphere of college sports more engaging than the professional scene and reveals how the pre-game hype fueled his performance on the field.

Montee’s journey takes a profound turn as he candidly discusses his battle with addiction, a struggle that began in his college years and led him to some of his darkest moments. Encouraged by his therapist to journal his thoughts, Montee wrote over 80,000 words, which became a cornerstone of his recovery process. A pivotal moment came when he watched his former team win the Super Bowl from a jail cell, a stark wake-up call that pushed him to confront his issues head-on with the unwavering support of his family. This episode underscores the importance of seeking help and the transformative power of becoming a recovery coach.

In our final segment, we explore how Montee applies the discipline and perseverance from his athletic career to his recovery journey. He sheds light on the importance of opening up about personal struggles, the role of faith, and the blend of spirituality with self-accountability in his healing process. Montee also emphasizes creating spaces where men can openly share their vulnerabilities, fostering genuine connections, and promoting healing. Tune in to hear Montee's inspiring insights on resilience, the ongoing journey towards peace, and the power of showing up consistently.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Ever wondered how true brotherhood can be the bedrock of recovery? In this powerful episode of the Valiant Living Podcast, Drew Powell sits down with alumni Jonathan to explore the emotional highs and lows of addiction recovery. From the first, nerve-wracking day at the PHP house to the unexpected camaraderie that blossomed, Jonathan recounts his path from skepticism and anxiety to profound internal transformation. We delve into the raw, unfiltered emotions experienced during early recovery days, emphasizing the critical role of continuous support and the challenging journey towards self-discovery.

Curious about the pivotal moments that can shape a person's journey out of addiction? Listen as Jonathan opens up about the intense vulnerabilities and struggles he faced, including confronting intimacy disorders and dealing with the awkwardness of forging genuine connections. Hear about the importance of family support and how love and communal guidance were integral to maintaining sobriety. These candid stories, woven with moments of humor and camaraderie, provide a heartfelt look into the complexities of addiction and the enduring power of community.

What does life look like after 20 months of sobriety? Drew and Jonathan reflect on the ups and downs post-recovery, highlighting that the road to sobriety is far from a smooth ride but filled with incredible moments of growth and gratitude. They share practical advice for those at the beginning of their recovery journey, stressing the importance of vulnerability, faith, and the continuous effort required to stay clean and sane. Tune in to hear about transformative experiences, such as a memorable hike in El Dorado Canyon and the humorous reality of balancing spirituality with everyday life, all underscoring the ongoing journey towards healing and self-improvement.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

From the rich soil of a Northwest Ohio farm to the heart of Valiant Living’s recovery community, Dan Meyer's story unfolds with raw honesty and deep insight. Our latest episode features this beloved therapist and program alumnus, affectionately known as Coach or Uncle Dan, who shares the riveting tale of his transformation from an athlete with coaching dreams to a guiding light for many grappling with addiction. His early competitive spirit, influenced by family ties, set the stage for a life filled with both triumphs and tribulations, including an identity crisis, a battle with addiction, and a profound journey towards self-acceptance.

Dan Meyer opens up about the personal challenges he faced, drawing us into his world where validation and connection clashed with his struggle for self-love. Navigating the trials of ADHD and academic pressures, Dan's story is a powerful illustration of how one can turn adaptive survival strategies into stepping stones for growth. His candid discussion about the pitfalls of needing constant affirmation and the pattern of 'rescuing' others provides a stark glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and the transformative power of confronting deep-seated issues.

Our conversation culminates in a reflection on rebirth and the courage it takes to forge a new identity. Dan's transition from an athletic director to a role that champions humility and service is a poignant reminder of life's second acts. He shares the wisdom gained from pivotal moments that reshaped his life, offering encouragement and salient advice for anyone facing career shifts or identity redefinition. This episode is a compelling narrative of change, resilience, and the discovery of joy in the unexpected chapters of life.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Embarking on a journey through the complex tapestry of the human experience, we're joined by the unparalleled Amanda, whose life story unravels in our latest podcast episode. Her voice resonates with the wisdom of someone who's walked through fire and emerged not just intact, but reborn. She candidly delves into the intricate process of writing her book, a two-year odyssey of perseverance and the sweet agony of creation, while balancing her roles as a podcaster and recovery worker. Amanda's narrative is a beacon for anyone who's ever feared that their dreams might remain just beyond reach, illustrating the profound impact of dedication and the beauty of seeing a vision through to the end.

Amanda's raw and powerful recount of her battle with addiction, and her transformative journey to sobriety since relocating to Colorado, paints a portrait of a soul forged in the fires of self-discovery. Having navigated the stormy seas of substance abuse, her insights into the fears of creativity's loss in sobriety and the surprising discovery of authentic connections are nothing short of inspirational. The conversation navigates through the heart of grief, as Amanda shares how her profound losses have not only shaped her but also brought about an unexpected sense of clarity and direction in her life. Her story is a reminder that our most trying moments often serve as the catalysts for our greatest growth.

As the episode draws to a close, we're left with a sense of gratitude for the vulnerability and profundity Amanda has brought into our space. The episode is a testament to Valiant Living's mission to educate, encourage, and empower individuals on their paths to peace and freedom. Her journey of overcoming grief and confronting generational dysfunction invites listeners to reflect on their own narratives and the strength that can be found within a community. We wrap up with an open invitation to our audience: join the conversation, reach out for support, and allow Amanda's story to be a guiding light in your own journey towards healing and transformation.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Embarking on the road to recovery is a tale of strength and vulnerability, marred by moments of humor and harrowing struggle. It's a narrative I know all too well, inviting you to walk alongside my guest and me, fellow Valiant Living program alumni, as we recount our personal odysseys from the grip of addiction to the embrace of sobriety. We kick things off with a light-hearted memory of a recovery walk that went awry with hot dogs, but quickly delve into the sober realities of our pasts. Our stories are a candid testament to the resilience required to overcome a life shaded by substance abuse.

Tune in for an intimate exploration of the forces that can steer a life towards addiction. My guest shares the complex interplay of a strict religious upbringing and early experiments with intoxication, charting his course from a childhood sip of beer to a descent into the shadows of methamphetamine abuse. He opens up about the personal struggles that fueled his addiction, from battling demons of low self-esteem to the impact of economic hardship on parenting. It's a raw look at the intricate web of circumstances that can trap someone in the cycle of dependency, and the daunting but necessary journey towards redemption.

Our conversation takes a turn down the rocky road of recovery, where success is measured in daily battles won against the lure of relapse. We discuss the critical importance of support systems like Narcotics Anonymous and the personal resolve it takes to maintain sobriety amidst life's trials, including loss during the COVID-19 pandemic and the pain of family estrangement. Our episode offers an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of self-reflection and the courage it takes to seek help. This is our story, but it's also a beacon of hope for anyone who might see themselves in the chapters of our lives.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Imagine embarking on a journey where every step forward is a triumph over personal demons and past struggles. That's the remarkable path of JR, who joins us once again on the Valiant Living podcast, to share his inspirational climb from case manager to Director of Detox and Assessment. His story is a beacon of hope and a vivid illustration of the transformative power of our program—not only for those in our care but also for the dedicated individuals who work alongside them. As JR opens up about the challenges he's faced, his passion for the nurturing, nature-wrapped approach of our detox program shines through, setting the stage for a conversation filled with heart and earnest dedication.

The landscape of addiction treatment is often fraught with despair, but it is precisely in these depths that the smallest glimmers of hope can ignite a life-changing journey. Through the voices of our detox technicians and the recounting of a moving intervention, we explore the essence of empathy, the cornerstone of Valiant Living's philosophy. The episode weaves tales of resilience and the power of secondary intervention, spotlighting the critical and ongoing support needed to prevent relapse. It's a candid look at the human side of substance use disorder and the compassionate, professional care it demands.

Concluding the episode, we offer a rare glimpse into the delicate process of medically supervised detoxification and the dangers of facing depressant withdrawal alone. We share success stories that resonate with the healing and redemption that unfolds within our residential programs. These narratives aren't just about recovery; they're about the renewal of families and the revitalization of communities. They're about taking that vital first step toward a life of peace and freedom, knowing that the Valiant Living team is there to guide and support every inch of the way.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Embark on a journey with us and the remarkable Malissa F, Wellness Director at Valiant Living who returns to the Valiant Living podcast to share her profound insights into outdoor therapy's role in addiction and mental health recovery. Imagine replacing the confines of a therapist's office with the boundless expanse of nature as we explore how the sensory symphony of the outdoors can dramatically shift emotions and perspectives. From the adrenaline rush of a cold plunge to the reflective tranquility of a silent hike, our conversation traverses personal stories and the innovative "pumpkin haul" exercise, showcasing the ingenious ways these activities are woven into the fabric of recovery at Valiant Living. 

This episode is a celebration of rediscovering joy and community through the simple act of play, especially poignant for men over 25 who often overlook its value. We highlight the nuanced art of mindfulness achieved in nature, detailing how silent hikes and journaling under the canopy of trees can foster spiritual connections, even for those ambivalent towards traditional beliefs. Tailoring outdoor therapy to suit various abilities and needs, we emphasize inclusivity, support, and the heartwarming transformations our clients experience. Whether you're contemplating a morning walk to kickstart your day or a career change towards the fulfilling realm of outdoor therapy, this conversation is an open invitation to ground yourself in nature's embrace and discover the serenity and freedom that awaits outside your door.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Recovery isn't a straight line; it's a mosaic of triumphs, setbacks, and revelations that shape us into who we are. Embark on a motivational journey with Jake, whose candid account of overcoming addiction through the Valiant Living program will touch your heart and ignite your spirit. Our conversation traverses the landscape of personal growth, as Jake speaks to the essence of humility in sobriety, dismantles initial doubts about the program, and celebrates the ‘Valiant Difference’ — a blend of support, camaraderie, and unexpected moments of joy, like the surprise call from Jill that underscores the community's tight-knit fabric.

Ever caught yourself wondering how certain habits sneak into our lives and cling like shadows? Jake's intimate reflection on his battle with unhealthy coping mechanisms pulls back the curtain on a topic that many grapple with in silence. He traces his own behaviors back to their roots, recounting the voids that gambling filled, and the courage it took to confront his issues head-on. His story is a powerful testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the cathartic release of acknowledging one's struggles, and the indelible impact of a supportive network through the monumental shifts of recovery.

As we step behind the closed doors of intensive therapy, Jake sheds light on the resilience of the human spirit. He details the rigorous routine of group sessions, individual therapy, and 12-step meetings that carved his path to self-awareness, alongside the transformative power of emotional intelligence and empathy. Further, he underscores the significance of holistic practices and the practical tools he gained for managing anxiety and life's myriad pressures. Infused with hope and actionable guidance, this episode is an open invitation to anyone seeking to embrace change and cultivate a fulfilling, sober life.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

The raw, unfiltered bonds of family take center stage as my daughter Emory Powell and I tear down the walls of silence surrounding addiction. Together, we navigate the turbulent emotions that come with a parent's struggle with addiction. Emory, with a courage that humbles me, shares the world she knew—a reality marked by my battles and her own resilience. She speaks to the heart of what many children in her shoes feel but are seldom heard, offering a beacon of hope to those still trapped in the shadows of familial addiction.

Confronting the chaos that addiction wreaks on a family, this episode is a deep, emotional journey through the eyes of both the sufferer and the ones who love them most. I lay bare the personal narratives crafted in search of stability, the critical moments of tough love that pushed me towards acceptance and healing, and the night of prayer that turned the tides. This chapter of our lives is a testament to the power of family intervention and the faith that can either bind or break us as we claw our way back to trust and understanding.

In an honest exploration of the long road to mending relationships, Emory and I examine the delicate dance of rebuilding trust, the catharsis of writing heartfelt letters, and the therapeutic support that is so crucial in these times. We recognize the non-linear path of healing, the importance of empathy and personal accountability, and the guiding hand of therapy in a child's journey through a parent's absence. This episode, steeped in raw emotion and hard-earned wisdom, is a message of hope and dedication to anyone working to reconnect the familial ties strained by addiction's relentless grip.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

How often do we wear our pride like a heavy armor, only for it to lead us down a path of negativity and despair? If you've ever felt this, come join us for a candid and transformative conversation. Michael Dinneen, CEO and Founder of Valiant Living, shares his journey of letting go of shame, embracing vulnerability, and uncovering the liberating power of sharing secrets. It's a raw exploration of how this openness can foster genuine connections with others, which is a stepping stone to personal growth and recovery.

Forgiveness. It sounds simple, but it's so much more than just a word - it's a powerful force that can shape our lives and our mindset. We dive deep into the intricate link between forgiveness and recovery. The pride and pain an addict carries can often build walls around their heart. Knocking down these walls requires courage and forgiveness; we discuss why it's essential, not just for others but for ourselves too. It's about clearing the path for spiritual growth and a healthier mindset, allowing us to walk freely on the road to recovery.

Working on ourselves is undeniably important, but so are our relationships. This episode sheds light on the essence of healthy love and attachment. We talk about saying 'no' with love, and how that can be an essential part of a mature relationship. We also discuss the tricky business of handling tension and confrontation, and how authenticity in communication can make a world of difference. Wrapping it up, we delve into a critical discussion about the urgent need for addiction and mental health support in our society. Tune in to this enlightening conversation and embark on this journey of self-discovery and healing with us.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

The struggle with addiction often feels like a lonely road. Today, we're privileged to have Brady, a Valiant Living alumni, who bravely shares his enigmatic journey from addiction, through recovery, and into a life of purpose and fulfillment. We venture deep into the dark corners of addiction as Brady lays bare the heartaches he encountered, prioritizing alcohol over family, and the resultant emotional regret and impact on his health.

We navigate the treacherous terrain of Brady's addiction, and the toll it took on his relationships, health, and life as he knew it. His story paints a grim picture of a man, caught in the relentless grip of addiction, facing the harsh realities of acute liver failure and a broken home. However, a silver lining emerges as Brady talks about finding strength in his lowest moments and beginning his recovery journey with courage and determination. 

Join us for this enlightening conversation, as we discuss the beauty of recovery and the promise of life after addiction. Brady's experiences with the Valiant Living program offer rays of hope, emphasizing the importance of mastering your emotions and leveraging the tools available for overcoming addiction. Whether you're fighting your own battles or know someone who is, this episode is a testament to the power of recovery and the possibility of a full and satisfying life post-addiction. Embrace this opportunity for transformation, inspired by Brady's journey, and remember, it's never too late to seek help.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Have you ever found yourself caught in the whirlwind of holiday season, feeling overwhelmed and understatedly anxious? Tune in to our latest episode as we navigate the bumpy road of addiction recovery during the festive season with our expert guest, therapist Bridget Filardi. With a decade long experience under her belt, Bridget enlightens us about the unique stressors that this time of year can bring, particularly for those on the recovery journey. Our candid conversation pinpoints the importance of self-care, acknowledging triggers, and finding healthy ways to process emotions, especially around family dynamics. 

When the holiday cheer meets the nasty bite of addiction, things can get tricky. We delve into the societal norms and pressures that come into play, such as the normalization of alcohol, which can be a massive hurdle for those in recovery. But fear not, we’ve got you covered with practical strategies like keeping a non-alcoholic drink in hand during social gatherings and practicing 'parts work' to manage cravings. Sobriety during the holiday season isn't easy, but it's certainly possible, and our discussion is laden with valuable insights to lend a helping hand.

Wrapping up the episode, we gravitate towards the role of gratitude and self-compassion in the recovery process. We share an uplifting conversation with a guest who’s found solace in these practices. The importance of taking the time to appreciate small joys and practicing kindness towards oneself is underscored, shedding light on how it can catalyze significant change. The journey to peace and freedom isn't a solitary one, and this episode is a gentle reminder of the importance of seeking support. Catch this episode of the Valiant Living Podcast for a fresh perspective and practical advice on navigating recovery during the holiday season.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Have you ever considered the deep-seated connection between gratitude and grief, especially in the light of overcoming addiction and cultivating sobriety? This episode explores this profound link through the eyes of our guest,  a therapist at Valiant Living, as he recounts his personal journey from addiction to recovery. His story encompasses a faith-based upbringing, the recognition of self-worth, and the importance of understanding and embracing one's past as key elements in his path to sobriety.

Dive into our raw and heartfelt conversation as we traverse the road of addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. Our guest's insight on practicing gratitude and grief not just as tools for recovery, but as pathways to deeper self-awareness and acceptance, is truly thought-provoking. Together, we also explore the concept of ho-oponopono, an ancient Hawaiian practice of forgiveness and relationship repair, underlining its potential as a healing tool in recovery.

Our discussion doesn't stop there; we delve into the critical role that a supportive community plays in aiding one's journey to sobriety. Hear our guest recount his experience of how his family's involvement and engagement became a pillar of strength throughout his recovery. As we wrap up this potent conversation, we reiterate the transformative power of forgiveness, gratitude, and community. Join us and learn how acknowledging your past, cultivating self-awareness, and fostering a supportive community can guide you on the road to finding your authentic self.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Join us for an engrossing conversation with Payton Smith, an inspiring figure from the Valiant Living community, as he bravely reveals his journey through addiction and into recovery. Our chat explores the initial signs that pointed Payton towards his own addiction, the fear of contemplating a life post-recovery, and his determination to make a fulfilling life for himself after addiction - an existence filled with joy, adventure, and a sense of achievement.

As we delve deeper into the realities of maintaining sobriety, particularly in social environments where alcohol is a constant, Payton offers invaluable insights on forging connections with like-minded individuals and harnessing the transformative power of radical honesty. We discuss how to find balance, joy, and adventure in sobriety, and how mindfulness practices can enhance our ability to live in the moment, thus enabling us to appreciate the smaller joys in life. Payton also speaks about how his role at Valiant Living has positively influenced his recovery journey.

We wrap up our enlightening conversation by reflecting on the significance of community events, such as the rally for recovery in Colorado. We delve into how such gatherings play a pivotal role in eradicating the stigma surrounding addiction and recovery. These events provide a safe space to celebrate recovery milestones and inspire those still battling addiction. So, brace yourselves for a heartfelt exchange about the trials, triumphs, and the undeniable joy of living a life in recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Consider for a moment, your life spiraling out of control. What would it take to pull the brakes, make a U-turn and start over anew? Sharing his remarkable journey of recovery is Travis Simmons, who found his redemption in the midst of personal loss and addiction. From a life overshadowed by substances to a leadership role at Valiant Living, Travis opens up about his trials, tribulations, and triumphs.

Travis's story is the personification of resilience. An addiction that began in his formative years was the harbinger of a challenging life path. He paints a vivid picture of his time at the Denver Salvation Army ARC, a 96-bed men's facility, where discipline, structure, and a commitment to complete all 12 steps of recovery changed the course of his life. His experiences shaped his leadership style, advocating for a clean living environment, mental health, and the necessity of tough love in recovery.

As we journey with Travis to his role at Valiant Living, we learn about his novel perspective on recovery housing and its critical role in reintegrating individuals into everyday life. His experience has given him an incisive understanding of the fears and challenges that accompany transitions into a new living environment. Now, as the Director of Operations at Valiant Living, Travis uses his personal experience to help others transition seamlessly into new housing, fostering a sense of brotherhood and unity amidst the residents. And remember, it's never too late to seek help. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, the strength of the human spirit, and a beacon of hope for those in their darkest hours.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Are you ready to be moved by a tale of resilience? Brace yourself for an emotional roller-coaster as Dylan and Lily recount their heart-wrenching journey from addiction to recovery. With raw honesty, they share their experiences with addiction, the strenuous path to recovery, and how they navigated their lives after treatment. They unlock the door to their past, revealing the impact of their choices on their relationship.

Imagine hitting rock bottom, the point where the only choice left is to seek help or die. This was the reality for Dylan and Lily, who courageously open up about their lowest points, the intense process of detox and treatment, and the profound effects of loneliness and trauma. But, their story doesn't end in despair. In the latter part of this episode, they talk about their life after recovery, the newfound purpose they found in NA recovery meetings, and the significant role of connection in their journey.

You'll discover their grit as they prioritize recovery above all else, including their relationship and parenting. They reveal the courage it took to surrender and overcome addiction and how they found inspiration amid their struggles. Their story is a testament to the strength, resilience, and hope required to beat addiction. In Dylan and Lily's words, you will find encouragement and hope, especially if you feel distant from recovery. Don't miss this deeply stirring conversation about surrendering to the process and finding strength in vulnerability.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Have you ever considered the profound impact that the family of an addict has on their recovery journey? As your host, we sat down with Jill Gallegos, the lead therapist at Valiant Living, who provided an eye-opening perspective about the essential role of family in the process of addiction recovery. She walked us through her day-to-day endeavors, dealing with the shock, trauma, and sometimes manipulation involved when a loved one is battling addiction.

Her journey from a nursing background into becoming a licensed professional counselor, addiction counselor, and a family therapist is an inspiration. She brings to light how her personal experiences have shaped her approach in helping others in their recovery. We also look into the importance of structuring schedules in recovery and the significance of empathy and surrender in the process.

Our conversation ends with a discussion on the importance of breaking codependency and fostering open communication for healing. Jill outlines her vision for an alumni program, where past participants step up as temporary sponsors for newcomers. We also touch on rebuilding relationships, personal growth, and the importance of connection in recovery. We guarantee that this episode will leave you with a renewed understanding of addiction recovery and the key role of family in the process. Tune in to be a part of this enlightening conversation.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

What if the key to overcoming addiction and mental health struggles was not just in the mind, but also in the body and the environment around us? This mesmerizing podcast episode promises a transformative journey through Valiant Living, unveiling how this unique program is bringing hope and revolutionary change to men and their families grappling with such challenges. Listen in as we discuss the struggle with resistance and anger, and how Valiant Living cultivates a safe haven for participants to find their path to healing. Communication is stressed as the lifeline of the program, and the nurturing of relationships emerges as a distinguishing aspect of the Valiant Living experience. 

We cast the spotlight on our guest, Melissa, a beacon of compassion and understanding. Bringing her unique skills and open heart to the table, she uses yoga nidra, mindfulness, yoga, and wilderness therapy as instruments of change. Hear how she fosters a sense of being seen, heard, and understood in participants, subtly weaving the fabric of trust and connection. We also navigate the equilibrium between activity and rest, underscoring the integral role of physical wellness programs at Valiant Living, encompassing high-intensity interval training, yoga, and mat pilates.

As we bring the episode to a close, we plunge into the enigmatic world of sound therapy and vibrational sound therapy, examining their impressive effects in purging negative energy. The importance of nature in the recovery process is highlighted through a participant's spiritual awakening during a three-day adventure to the sand dunes, demonstrating that peace, inner stillness, and present moment awareness can be found even amidst chaos. We invite you to listen, imbibe, and be spurred to action.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Ever stopped to ponder how former addicts reconstruct their lives, finding purpose and passion in the aftermath of their toughest times? Wonder no more. Today, we have the pleasure of welcoming JR, a former addict who now serves as a case manager at Valiant Living - an organization providing support for men and their families dealing with addiction and mental health struggles. This conversation delves deep into the challenging, yet immensely rewarding journey of recovery, reflecting on the crucial elements of trust, compassion, and patience throughout the process.

Transitioning to life post-recovery is often a path less traversed in recovery discussions. Yet, JR opens up about his own transition from working in a deli, where he honed communication skills, to becoming a pivotal part of the Valiant Living team. The conversation underscores the role of case management and life coaches in providing comprehensive care and guidance for those on their recovery journey, highlighting their impact beyond the walls of a treatment center.

Finally, we unpack the intricate dance of personal growth and the role of case management within a recovery context. How do case management, housing, and therapeutic teams collaborate to create a nurturing environment for clients? JR’s personal success story, along with his deep gratitude for the work he does through Valiant Living, will undoubtedly fill you with hope. Join us, and let this powerful conversation inspire you toward a life of peace and freedom.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.

Welcome to a conversation of strength, courage, and limitless expansion, as we sit down with Michael Dinneen, Valiant Living's CEO, a recovered addict who has bravely transformed his life. Through the power of the 12-step program and an intense spiritual journey, Michael has risen above his struggles to create a life built on understanding, clarity, and true happiness. He shares his raw and candid story of addiction, offering a personal insight into the fight for freedom from the chains of addiction.

Michael takes us beyond the surface, delving into the heart of recovery, by introducing us to the three pillars of healthy recovery: religion, treatment, and recovery itself. Through his unique perspective, he emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and a supportive network. He urges us to see our struggles not as obstacles but as enlightening experiences guided by grace. His journey reminds us that acknowledging our fears and resentments can lead to a life filled with joy and integrity.

As we walk with Michael through his journey, we also explore the concept of 'Limitless Expansion.' Here we challenge the norms of success defined by society and redefine it in a more balanced, healthier way. We discuss how cultural pressures can lead to unhealthy behaviors and how acknowledging our fears and resentments can pave the way for a life of true integrity and joy. Finally, we emphasize the importance of trust and support in recovery. Listen in as we join Michael in his transformative journey, shedding light on the path to recovery and offering hope for those battling addiction.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone.

Valiant Living helps men and their families move from crisis to stability through clinically driven care, community, and hope.

Learn more about our programs at www.valiantliving.com
or call us confidentially at (720) 796-6885 to speak with someone who can help.