The Next Fix

Episode 57: Addiction, Family, and Faith: A Conversation with Steve Ward

In this episode of the Next Fix podcast, Ryan Penley interviews Steve Ward, who shares his personal journey through substance abuse and recovery. Steve discusses the impact of addiction on his family, the struggles of denial, and the lessons learned through hardship. He emphasizes the importance of recovery as a skillset that can be applied to various aspects of life, highlighting the transformative power of overcoming challenges. The conversation also touches on the spiritual dimensions of recovery and the need for life skills education in society. In this conversation, Steve Ward discusses his journey through recovery and the establishment of his nonprofit, Steps Ministries. He emphasizes the importance of providing practical resources and encouragement for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. The discussion covers the significance of early intervention, the need for grace and support in recovery, and practical steps individuals can take to improve their lives. Steve shares insights on how to break down barriers to seeking help and the value of understanding and compassion in supporting those in need.
Find out more about Steve Ward and STEPS at:  https://lifeimprovementsteps.com/
Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/lifeimprovementsteps
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZmEBeBHIRw5U7TGmbGJaA
You can check out more from your host Ryan Penley at:   https://www.ryanpenley.org
OR  https://www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 

Episode 56: Homeless and Pregnant, Randi Lee Bowslaugh Bounces Back

In this episode of the Next Fix podcast, Randi-Lee Bowslaugh, an author/podcaster, shares her powerful journey of overcoming adversity, from her challenging childhood marked by family dysfunction and trauma to her struggles with mental health and parenting a child with autism. Randi-Lee's story is one of resilience, love, and the ongoing battle to find peace amidst chaos. She discusses the pivotal moments in her life, including her experiences with homelessness, the impact of her relationships, and the health crises that shaped her path. Through it all, Randi-Lee emphasizes the importance of seeking help and the strength found in vulnerability. In this conversation, Randi-Lee Bowslaugh shares her profound journey through mental health challenges, family dynamics, and personal growth. She discusses the struggles of navigating survival mode while raising children with autism, the impact of her own mental health on her family, and the role of faith and community in her healing process. Randi-Lee also highlights the therapeutic power of writing and how sharing her story has become a vital part of her recovery.
Check out more from Randi-Lee at:
https://www.rbwriting.ca/ 
Find more from your host, Ryan Penley at:  www.ryanpenley.org
Or start the 21 Day Sobriety/Fitness Challenge at www.myrockbottomrecovery.com
#sober #sobriety #wedorecover #addiction #addictionrecovery 

Episode 55: Dopamine: Effort, Reward, then Rest (in that order) with Andy West

In this episode of The Next Fix, Ryan Penley interviews Andy West, who shares his journey from experiencing rock bottom moments due to bullying and addiction to finding clarity and success. Andy discusses the impact of dopamine on mood and motivation, his struggles with anhedonia, and the importance of effort, reward, and rest in achieving personal growth. She emphasizes the need to embrace hardship and challenge oneself to foster resilience and improve mental health.  Andy is an established author and her second title "Dopamine Mountain" can be found at:  
https://dopaminemountain.com/ 
She also invites you to email her at: mountdopamine@gmail.com
Find more from her at:  instagram.com/dopaminemountain | x.com/mountdopamine | facebook.com/mtdopamine | YouTube.com/@dopaminemountain 
Connect with your host at:  www.ryanpenley.org   Or  www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#sober #sobriety #wedorecover #addiction #addictionrecovery #alcoholism #AA #fyp #dopamine #dopaminemountain  

Episode 54: Exploring Ayurveda: A Holistic Approach to Recovery with Victor Briere

In this conversation, Ryan Penley and Victor Briere delve into the principles of Ayurveda, a holistic health approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body and mind. They discuss the limitations of Western medicine, particularly in treating chronic conditions like diabetes, and highlight the importance of individualized treatment plans. Victor shares insights on navigating addiction and recovery, emphasizing the need for a compassionate and tailored approach. The discussion also touches on the relevance of ancient wisdom in addressing modern health challenges, particularly in a world filled with toxins.
You can find more about Victor and Ayurveda at:  
https://www.iiayurveda.com/
Find more about recovery coaching with Ryan Penley:
https://www.ryanpenley.org  or https://www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#sober #sobriety #wedorecover #soberAF #AA #addictionrecovery #recovery #addiction  

Episode 53: From Binge to Breakthrough: Dr. Cali Estes on Food, Addiction, and Finding Recovery

This conversation touches on Dr Cali's personal losses, the challenges of working with high-profile clients, and the lessons learned throughout her journey.  Her latest book "I Married A Junkie" uncovers her relationship with a rock star in addiction.  This story is fit for a movie!  In this episode of The Next Fix podcast, Dr. Cali Estes unpacks the transformative journey from food addiction to drug use and ultimately to recovery. She discusses the impact of her upbringing on her relationship with food and stress, her experiences with various forms of addiction, and how she found healing through yoga and exercise. Dr. Cali Estes also highlights her innovative approach to recovery through her program, Sober on Demand, which offers personalized support for individuals seeking to overcome addiction. 
You can get more from Dr Cali Estes at: Www.caliestes.com
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/caliestes/
PODCAST:   www.unpauseyourlife.com 
COURSES AND CERTIFICATION:      www.theaddictionsacademy.com 
Learn more about working with your host, Ryan Penley:  www.ryanpenley.org 
Or  www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#sober #sobriety #wedorecover #addiction #addictionrecovery #AA #sobercoach

Episode 52: 7 Questions to Combat Triggers with James Rojas-Taylor

In this episode, Jim shares his unique journey from childhood to adulthood, exploring the concepts of emotional literacy and personal growth through acting techniques. He discusses his experiences with substance abuse, the importance of situational awareness, and how to apply acting methods to everyday life. Jim introduces the seven grounding questions that can help individuals navigate their emotions and obstacles, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's emotional state. He also talks about his book, 'All Your Best Selves,' which aims to provide readers with tools for mental and emotional literacy.
Get more with James Rojas at:  https://www.tbcenterprises.com/
Connect with Ryan Penley at:   https://www.ryanpenley.org   or https://myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#sobriety #sober #AA #wedorecovery #addictionrecovery #alcoholism #triggers #soberAF #newbegginings #hope #fyp   

Episode 51: How To "Live In the Solution" for Recovery with Gina Economopoulos

In this episode of The Next Fix, Gina Economopoulos shares her profound journey through addiction, loss, and recovery. From facing the death of her fiancé due to alcoholism to her own struggles with denial and self-discovery, Gina's story is one of resilience and hope. She discusses her time in the convent, the impact of relationships on her recovery, and how she found purpose after loss. Now, as a sober woman, Gina emphasizes the importance of living in the solution, helping others, and sharing her story to inspire those still struggling with addiction.
Learn more about Gina's latest book: "Shake The Dust Off Your Feet and Walk: Faith, Sobriety, Self-Discovery, and Healing"  
https://www.ginaecon.com/
More from your host Ryan Penley at https://www.ryanpenley.org or https://www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#sobriety #sober #AA #wedorecover #addiction #addictionrecovery #alcoholic #alcoholism #hope #soberAF #soberstart #newepisode #podcast

Episode 50: Quit Kit (Tools For Staying Sober) with Matt Von Boeklin

In this episode, Ryan Penley and Matt Von Boecklin discuss the journey of addiction, recovery, and the creation of the Quit Kit, a non-prescription solution for managing withdrawal symptoms. Matt shares his personal experiences with addiction, hitting rock bottom, and the struggles he faced while trying to find a way out. The conversation delves into the science behind addiction and recovery, the importance of support systems, and how the Quit Kit can help individuals navigate their path to sobriety. Matt emphasizes the need for accessible resources and the potential for the Quit Kit to serve as a bridge for those transitioning out of treatment facilities.
Learn more about Quit Kit at www.tryquitkit.com 
Learn more about your host at www.ryanpenley.org  or www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#sober #sobriety #wedorecover #addiction #addictionrecovery #AA #soberAF #fyp #alcoholism #kratom 

Episode 49: From Darkness to Aruka: Embracing a Holistic Path to Recovery with Lillian Easterly Smith

In this episode of The Next Fix podcast, Ryan Penley and Lillian Easterly-Smith discuss the profound impact of addiction and recovery. Lillian shares her personal journey from growing up in a family surrounded by substance abuse to her own struggles with addiction, including a pivotal suicide attempt that led her to seek help. The conversation explores the importance of addressing root causes of addiction, the role of community support, and the holistic approaches to recovery that Lillian is now implementing through her organization, Aruka Ranch. The episode emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of addiction and the importance of treating the whole person in the recovery process.
Find more from Lillian Easterly Smith at:
https://arukahranch.org/
Find more from the host at:  https://www.ryanpenley.org  Or  Https://www.myrockbottomrecovery.com  
#sobriety #AA #wedorecover #addiction #addictionrecovery #sober #fyp #soberAF #podcast #newepisode #alcoholism #relapse  

Episode 48: Instant Forgiveness and Transformation Through Prayer with Beatty Carmichael

In this conversation, Beatty Carmichael shares his journey of helping individuals recover from addiction through spiritual healing and prayer. It all started with him approaching people at Wal-Mart and praying over them.  He discusses the importance of understanding the spiritual roots of addiction, the effectiveness of his method called the Prayer of Freedom, and the transformative power of forgiveness. Beatty emphasizes that healing can be instantaneous when one aligns with spiritual laws and engages in genuine repentance. The discussion also touches on the generational patterns of addiction and the significance of addressing unforgiveness in the recovery process.  Beattty's latest book:  "The Prayer Of Freedom" can be found at:
https://getradicalfaith.org/tpof-booklink/
Check out more from the host at https://www.ryanpenley.org  Or, https://www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#soberiety #addictionrecovery #recoveryispossible #wedorecover #sober #soberaf #soberliving #AA #prayer #addiction #hope #fyp