Advertise on podcast: Clean and Sober Radio

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund took a wide-ranging look at addiction and recovery, discussing current news, sharing personal experiences from their own recovery journeys, and reminding listeners that there is more than one path to sobriety. Gary and Mark also responded to questions submitted by listeners, including an important discussion about recognizing when a family member’s drinking may have become a cause for concern. Throughout the conversation, they emphasized that recovery is possible and that there is no single formula for getting sober. Whether someone is just beginning to recognize a problem, struggling to find a path forward, or already living in recovery, help is available, change is possible, and a fulfilling life beyond addiction can become a reality.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Steve Forzato, Director of the Center for Addiction and Recovery Services at Saint Joseph’s University, for an important conversation about the connection between addiction and human trafficking. Drawing on his four decades of experience in law enforcement and his expertise in addiction and recovery, Steve discussed the devastating realities he has witnessed throughout his career and how substance use can intersect with human and sex trafficking. He also shared his work addressing trafficking-related issues in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, and discussed the importance of education, awareness, prevention, and support for those affected by addiction and exploitation.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele to the studio for an informative conversation about addiction and the criminal justice system. DA Steele discussed how his office handles criminal cases involving addiction, the importance of recognizing substance use disorder and connecting people with treatment and second-chance opportunities, and the need for strong enforcement against those who trafficked dangerous drugs and contributed to overdose deaths. The conversation offered an inside look at the difficult balance between compassion for those struggling with addiction and accountability for those who profit from the illegal drug trade.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Philadelphia City Councilmember-at-Large Jimmy Harrity to the studio. A person in long-term recovery himself, Harrity discussed his role on City Council and his advocacy for people still struggling with addiction, as well as his support for those living in recovery. The conversation explored the importance of having people in positions of influence who understand addiction firsthand and are committed to helping those in need. Harrity also discussed his support for Philadelphia’s Wellness Expo, held at Philadelphia City Hall in recognition of Recovery Month, and the importance of bringing recovery resources, education, and community support together.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Philadelphia native Max Ariel, who had been in recovery for more than 20 years and works as a substance abuse counselor in Puerto Rico. Max shared his personal recovery journey and offered insight into the differences in attitudes, cultural perspectives, and approaches to addiction and treatment in Puerto Rico compared with those in the United States. The conversation provided an informative look at how culture can influence the way addiction is understood, addressed, and treated, while emphasizing the universal challenges and possibilities of recovery.