The Next Fix

Winning the Day: Mindset & Support Systems in Sobriety with Walt Blau (Ep 64)

Episode 64 Description Join host Ryan Penley as he sits down with Walt Blau, creator and host of the Be Raw Podcast, for a raw, unfiltered conversation about overcoming addiction and rebuilding a life of purpose. In this powerful episode, Walt opens up about:
Hitting rock bottom and the pivotal moment he chose to quit cocaine and alcohol
How his wife’s support and a safe environment fueled open, honest discussions
The role of accountability partners and strong support systems in staying sober
Using visualization and a success-focused mindset to maintain momentum
Walt’s practical mantra of “winning the day”—simple, real steps toward lasting change
Whether you’re on your own recovery journey, looking for tools to support a loved one, or seeking inspiration for personal growth and life transformation, Walt’s story demonstrates the power of responsibility, simplicity, and belief in yourself.  @berawpodcast @waltblau
🔗 Listen now:• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-raw-podcast/id1511404859 podcasts.apple.com
Resources & Links
Walt Blau / Be Raw Podcast• Website: https://berawpodcast.com/• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/berawpodcast/
Connect with Ryan Penley• Website: https://www.ryanpenley.org• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyanPenley
#sober #sobriety #fyp #wedorecover #mindset #bereal #addiction #addictionrecovery 

Episode 63: Hardship, Hustle & Hope: Drew Carmichael’s Blueprint for Growth

In this episode of The Next Fix 🎙️, host Ryan Penley sits down with Drew Carmichael, a 19-year-old Australian entrepreneur who turned personal loss into purpose and built a global marketing agency generating millions in e-commerce sales.
Despite losing his grandmother just hours before recording, Drew showed up—proof that resilience is more than a buzzword; it’s a way of life. He dives into:
Developing mental toughness when life hits hard
Maintaining a solution-oriented mindset
Turning small wins into big momentum
Balancing youth entrepreneurship with mental health
Setting and smashing clarity-driven goals
💬 Connect with Drew:• Website & podcast resources → https://thecultivator.co• Instagram → @thecultivatorco
🙏 Have feedback or questions for your host?Reach out to Ryan Penley:• Website & show notes → https://ryanpenley.org• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/myrockbottomrecovery 
📌 “You can’t use the what-ifs to hold you back.” – Drew Carmichael
Whether you’re chasing growth, recovering from setback, or just need a reminder that anything’s possible, hit ▶️ and let this episode fuel your next fix.
#Resilience #Entrepreneurship #TheNextFix #YouthInBusiness #MentalHealth #EcommerceSuccess #DrewCarmichael #RyanPenley #sobriety #sober #wedorecover #fyp 

Episode 62: Why Australia’s Drinking Culture Fuels Addiction — And What Needs to Change

Australia just made history—psilocybin and MDMA are now legally prescribed by psychiatrists under strict supervision. Join host Ryan Penley as he sits down with Principal Psychologist & Clinical Psychedelic-Assisted Therapist Shai Hipperson to explore:
✨ Australia’s cultural drinking roots and why substance use is so prevalent✨ Childhood trauma as a hidden driver of addiction✨ Why rehab often fails to treat underlying wounds—and how patient agency transforms recovery✨ The promise of MDMA & psilocybin in trauma therapy under new clinical guidelines
In this episode of the Next Fix podcast, Ryan Penley interviews Shay Hipperson, a therapist specializing in addiction recovery. Shay shares her personal journey into the field, influenced by her own experiences with trauma and substance abuse in her family. The conversation explores the cultural context of substance use in Australia, the impact of childhood trauma on addiction, and the challenges faced in rehabilitation systems. Shay emphasizes the importance of patient agency in recovery and discusses how success in treatment can vary based on individual goals. The episode concludes with a reflection on coping mechanisms and the importance of seeking help when needed. In this conversation, Shai Hipperson and Ryan Penley explore the complexities of addiction, recovery, and the challenges faced by individuals and their families. They discuss the importance of personal readiness in addressing addiction, the stages of change in behavior, and the often muddy definitions of success in recovery. The conversation also touches on the accessibility of support resources in Australia and the emerging role of psychedelics in therapeutic settings.
🔗 Learn more about Shai 👉 https://www.consciousmindcentre.com.au
👉Insta handle is: @consciousmindcentre
🔗 Connect with Ryan 👉 https://www.ryanpenley.org  Or https://www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#sober #sobriety #addiction #fyp #addictionrecovery #AA #alcoholism #wedorecover 

Episode 61: How to Recognize Covert Narcissism and Protect Your Peace with Kerie Logan

In this episode of Next Fix Podcast, Ryan Penley sits down with Kerie Logan—a Human Consciousness Guide, author, certified clinical hypnotherapist, and NLP practitioner—to uncover the roots of our most painful patterns and how to break free. Together, they explore:
Consciousness & Identity: How narcissistic abuse and identity erosion slowly chip away at our sense of self—and the key steps to reclaiming it.
Covert Narcissism & Trauma: Warning signs of manipulative relationships and trauma bonds, plus why a trauma-informed approach is essential for true healing.
Hypnotherapy & Inner Work: Kerie’s proven methods—from parts therapy to Quantum Healing Hypnosis—to rewire subconscious beliefs, silence the inner critic, and build lasting habits.
Forgiveness & Self-Empowerment: Why compassion (not hate) fuels recovery, how to forgive without forgetting, and the transformative power of self-awareness in overcoming addiction and trauma.
Whether you’re navigating toxic relationships, recovering from addiction, or simply seeking deeper self-awareness, Kerie’s blend of clinical expertise and real-world wisdom offers actionable tools for emotional healing and growth.
🔗 Connect with Kerie Logan• Learn more about her work and resources at Empowered Within Hypnosis & Hypnotherapy: https://www.empoweredwithin.com/about-kerie-logan/• Dive into her weekly podcast Master the Upper Rooms of Human Consciousness on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-the-upper-rooms-of-human-consciousness/id1766753992
🔗 Connect with Ryan Penley• Join our recovery community at My Rock Bottom Recovery: https://MyRockBottomRecovery.com• Visit Ryan’s personal site for books, challenges, and coaching: https://ryanpenley.org
If this conversation resonated with you, please leave a review, share with a friend who needs it, and follow for more insights on recovery, resilience, and radical self-empowerment.
#sober #sobriety #fyp #newepisode #podcast #newpodcast #wedorecover #addiction #narcissist 

Episode 60: Redesigning Life: Sobriety, Business, and the Beauty of Change

What happens when you don’t hit rock bottom, but still know it’s time to change your life? In this powerful episode of The Next Fix Podcast, Ryan Penley sits down with Nikki Lindgren—entrepreneur, mom, and wellness advocate—to explore her decision to quit alcohol and completely transform her life.
Nikki opens up about growing up in a drinking culture in rural Minnesota, the blackout moment that made her question everything, and how sobriety reshaped her identity as a parent, a partner, and a business owner.
Together, Ryan and Nikki dive deep into:
The invisible pressure of social drinking and alcohol culture
How sobriety shifted her family dynamics and parenting style
Navigating relationships when you choose not to drink
Building confidence and presence without alcohol
Using human design and self-reflection for personal and professional growth
Scaling a business in the beauty and wellness space
Why wellness—not wine—is the new status symbol
If you’re rethinking your relationship with alcohol, navigating family dynamics, or exploring self-awareness and lifestyle change, this episode is a must-listen.
Find more from Nikki Lindgren at:  https://www.pennock.co/
Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@pennockco
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilindgren/
Find more from your host at:   www.ryanpenley.org   Or  www.myrockbottomrecovery.com
#sobriety #wellness #mentalhealth #selfawareness #alcoholfree #familydynamics #personalgrowth #recovery #entrepreneurship

Episode 59: Breaking the Savior Complex: Dr Albert Bramante's Path from Enabler to Clarity

In this episode, Ryan Penley interviews Albert, who shares his journey of self-discovery and the challenges he faced as an enabler in relationships, particularly with individuals struggling with addiction. Albert reflects on his people-pleasing tendencies, the burnout he experienced in his professional life, and the lessons learned from enabling behavior. He discusses the importance of setting boundaries, recognizing codependency, and ultimately embracing freedom and new opportunities after letting go of toxic relationships. In this enlightening conversation, Albert shares his transformative journey from adversity to success, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and personal growth. He discusses the challenges of codependency, the writing process of his first book, and his plans for future projects. Albert offers valuable insights for those struggling with similar issues, highlighting the significance of self-worth and the need to prioritize one's own well-being.  Dr Albert Bramante shares how he manages his continued success at: https://albertbramante.com/
You can also find more from him at:  https://www.facebook.com/albertbramante 
OR https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertbramante/ 
See more from your host at:   www.ryanpenley.org   Or   www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#sober #sobriety #AA #fyp #addictionrecovery #addiction #enabling #wedorecover 
 
 
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Episode 58: Breaking the Silence with Damian: No Finish Line in Sobriety

In this episode of the Next Fix podcast, Ryan Penley interviews Damian Bloss, the author of "Breaking The Silence," who shares his powerful story of addiction and recovery. Damian recounts the dark moments that led him to alcohol as a coping mechanism after the suicide of a close family member. He discusses the progression of his addiction, the struggles to hide it from his family, and the eventual breaking point that prompted him to seek help. With the support of his wife and a new supervisor who understood his struggles, Damian embarks on a journey towards sobriety, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way. In this conversation, Damian shares his harrowing journey through addiction, detailing the moment he reached out for help and the transformative experience that followed. He discusses the importance of support systems, the challenges of detoxing, and the steps he took to maintain sobriety after rehab. Damian emphasizes the need for community and awareness in addressing addiction and mental health issues, highlighting his commitment to helping others through his experiences and initiatives.
You can purchase Damian's book at:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXFD2JF7
Find everything about Damian Bloss's pursuit in helping people here:  https://linktr.ee/breakingthesilence0424?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=f44c1e4b-a35e-47bd-9737-2d84fb1c4631
Find more about your host, Ryan Penley at:  www.ryanpenley.org or www.myrockbottomrecovery.com 
#sober #sobriety #wedorecover #AA #addiction #addictionrecovery #alcoholism 

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