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What does it mean to grow up loving a parent whose mind is at war with reality? In this powerful episode, Pamela Waggoner shares the deeply personal story behind her book, He Never Let Go: Overcoming the Trauma of Mental Illness with God's Love. Pamela opens up about her childhood with a mother living with paranoid schizophrenia and a father overwhelmed by exhaustion and responsibility. She reflects on the survival strategies she developed — perfectionism, achievement, relentless activity — and how those coping mechanisms eventually led to emotional collapse. What looked like strength on the outside was masking unaddressed trauma and deep self-blame. This conversation explores: The hidden impact of parental mental illness on childrenWhat happens when treatment separates familiesPerfectionism and productivity as trauma responsesThe unexpected people who become lifelinesWriting as a path toward sibling healingReleasing blame and embracing compassionFaith, surrender, and discovering that you were never alonePamela’s message is clear: you do not have to carry burdens that were never yours. Freedom is possible. Healing is possible. And love — even in the darkest seasons — never lets go. About the Guest: In this gripping and heartfelt memoir, "He Never Let Go", Pamela, always trying to survive and had no time to dream takes you on an emotional journey through the depths of childhood trauma and the healing power of faith. From a young age, Pamela faced unimaginable challenges, enduring a childhood marked by neglect, rejection and emotional pain.  Yet, amidst the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged - a relationship with Jesus Christ. As Pamela shares her story of resilience and redemption, she vividly recounts the harrowing moments that shaped her early years, painting a raw and honest portrait of the impact of emotional trauma. Links: Website: https://www.pamelawaggonergood.com/ Book:https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=Bs2zQkmAhxcHn7xi9o7pnOninhM7VjSRYc2y7Zl9rV7 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQ9N19Z8?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_ZCWFXJWMHGCHPPJHKGNM&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_ZCWFXJWMHGCHPPJHKGNM&sSupport the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Leah Shepherd, Executive Director of Victoria's Voice Foundation, to explore how one family’s tragedy became a national movement for drug prevention education and naloxone awareness.  Founded by David and Jackie Siegel after the loss of their daughter Victoria Siegel in 2015, Victoria’s Voice works to equip youth, parents, and communities with tools to prevent substance use and overdose from happening.  We also discuss the evolution of drug prevention in today’s world — including the influence of social media, changing perceptions, and the importance of creating safe spaces for honest conversations between parents and teens.  This episode is about prevention, compassion, and action.  Because awareness saves lives. About the Guest: Leah Shepherd serves as Executive Director of Victoria’s Voice Foundation, the national nonprofit dedicated to drug-prevention education, overdose awareness, and substance-use disorder prevention for families, youth, and communities. In this role, Leah leads the Foundation’s strategic efforts to expand and deepen its impact across programs including youth education (Save Our Kids), parent/caregiver/educator support (VITAL SIGNS), naloxone- access and awareness initiatives (Get. Give. Save.), and outreach to parents, schools, correctional institutions, and community networks. Under her leadership, Victoria’s Voice has helped positively impact the lives of more than one million students, parents, educators and community members nationwide through its evidence-based prevention and education efforts. Leah spearheaded the creation of National Naloxone Awareness Day, along with public-policy and advocacy efforts that support expanded access to lifesaving overdose-reversal medication. As a key public representative of Victoria’s Voice, she frequently engages in media interviews, public-speaking events, and high-visibility partnerships that amplify the Foundation’s mission. In her leadership capacity, Leah implements impactful events that drive the mission across partner channels and oversees all operational and financial controls in collaboration with the Foundation’s Board of Directors. Her leadership fosters passionate teamwork, strategic growth, and a steadfast commitment to protecting youth, empowering families, and strengthening communities nationwide. Links:  Website: https://victoriasvoice.foundation/ Social Handles:Instagram--@VictoriasVoiceFoundationFacebook--@VictoriasVoice FoundationSupport the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What does responsible gambling actually mean—and who is responsible for it? Suzanne Trainor, Communications Manager and Public Information Officer for the Arizona Department of Gaming, joins this episode to explore the intersection of regulation, responsibility, and real-world impact. Suzanne shares her journey from working at DraftKings to now overseeing communications and public information for a state agency responsible for regulating casino gaming, sports betting, fantasy sports, and more. Together, we unpack the complexity of gambling regulation—from public concerns before legalization to the ongoing challenge of balancing access, consumer protection, and prevention. This conversation goes beyond surface-level definitions. Suzanne challenges the idea that responsible gambling and problem gambling are separate conversations—highlighting instead how deeply connected they are.   Whether you work in behavioral health, policy, gaming, or simply want to better understand the systems shaping gambling in the U.S., this episode offers a grounded and thoughtful look behind the curtain. About the Guest: Suzanne Trainor is the Communications Manager and Public Information Officer for the Arizona Department of Gaming, where she leads communications for the agency and its Division of Problem Gambling. Her work focuses on raising awareness around responsible gambling and connecting individuals and families with prevention and treatment resources. In her role, Suzanne helps communicate important information about Arizona’s gaming landscape, which includes tribal casinos, event wagering, fantasy sports, unarmed combat sports, and horse racing. Before joining the Department, she worked in corporate communications at DraftKings, giving her a unique perspective on both the industry and responsible gaming. Originally from Massachusetts, Suzanne now lives in Phoenix with her husband, Scott. She holds a Master of Public Administration from Suffolk University. Links: Email: [email protected] Free, online, and self-paced responsible gaming training offered by the Arizona Department of Gaming: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/arizona-responsible-gaming-training-webinar-tickets-1985855803165?aff=oddtdtcreatorVisit gaming.az.gov/responsiblegaming to learn about RG. Follow Arizona Division of Problem Gambling's new social media accounts including on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arizona-division-of-problem-gambling/Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

With the expansion of sports betting and prediction markets - the question we often get asked is, “What about young men?”  Christina Cook, founder of the Broke Girl Society podcast, talks about the critical gaps in how gambling harm is recognized, treated, and represented—especially for women. Christina shares her lived experience of problem gambling and the barriers she faced in finding recovery spaces that reflected her reality. The conversation explores why women are often missing from gambling harm narratives, how caregiving roles and stigma create unique access barriers, and why traditional treatment and mutual aid spaces often fail to meet women where they are. Together, we unpack systemic issues in prevention messaging, the lack of gender-responsive treatment options, and the urgent need for lived experience leadership in shaping recovery systems. Christina also highlights the rapid expansion of gambling in Oklahoma, the disconnect between revenue and treatment funding, and the rise of her peer-driven recovery community supporting thousands of women globally. This episode challenges how we think about gambling harm—and who we imagine when we talk about recovery. About the Guest: Christina Cook, IGRS, is a lived-experience advocate dedicated to supporting individuals affected by gambling harm. Drawing from her own recovery journey, she uses her story to help reduce shame, build connection, and remind others that healing is possible. Through her podcast and the safe, empowering spaces she creates for women, Christina offers a platform for storytelling, community, and honest conversations about recovery and resilience. She currently serves on the board of the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Board (IPGGC) as Executive Secretary. Links: Links to the BGS: https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/E-mail: [email protected] the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What happens when healing steps outside the clinic and into ceremony? Paije and Fletcher from ETEREO join to discuss their psychedelic retreat work, which focuses on ceremonial healing using traditional medicines like Iboga and combining clinical approaches. They explained their philosophy of meeting individuals where they are in their healing journey, serving people dealing with addiction, mental health issues, and trauma through comprehensive screening and integration processes. The conversation covered the evolution of psychedelic medicine from indigenous practices to modern applications, their upcoming Baja California retreat center, and how they acquire new clients primarily through word-of-mouth referrals. This episode does not advocate for or against psychedelic use, but instead opens a conversation about emerging pathways in healing and recovery — and the questions professionals should be asking.  As psychedelic-assisted approaches continue to gain attention, how do we responsibly discuss risk, readiness, culture, and integration? About the Guests: Paije West brings a unique blend of personal transformation and professional leadership to ETÉREO Baja. After her own iboga journey catalyzed a profound healing process, she became an advocate for safety, “spiritual safety,” and professional standards in psychedelic practice.  At ETÉREO Baja, she oversees guest preparation, integration protocols, ceremonial offerings, and safety governance, ensuring every experience is trauma-informed, clinically supported, and spiritually attuned. Her leadership centers on transparency, integrity, and compassionate rigor, hallmarks of ETÉREO Baja’s reputation. Fletcher Burdick brings grounded, hands-on leadership to ETÉREO Baja, informed by years of collaboration with ibogaine clinics and deep ceremonial study in Peru. Drawing on his background founding and operating a construction company, he integrates practical execution with a deep respect for structure, process, and integrity in the development of ETÉREO’s regenerative healing center.  With over a decade of experience in the psychedelic space, he applies ceremonial depth and cultural alignment to clinical and business contexts, guiding operations and strategy through thoughtful, values-driven collaboration. Fletcher’s approach to psychedelics remains rooted in humility, never claiming origination, always honoring the lineages and traditions that came before. Links: https://www.etereobaja.mx/ Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What happens when outreach stops being passive and starts becoming relational?  In this episode, we sit down with Megan Poliquin, Gambling Treatment and Prevention Program Manager at the ZEPF Center, to explore how her team transformed their community engagement strategy in Ohio. Megan shares how what began as a grant-funded obligation evolved into a passionate mission—one that has reached more than 2,300 individuals through brief gambling screens. Instead of simply “sitting at a table,” her team created interactive, engaging, data-driven outreach events that build relationships and demonstrate measurable impact. We discuss: the difference between marketing and true outreach, why human connection matters more than information alone, how to approach community partnerships with clarity and confidence, creative strategies for engaging college students, and how small, consistent steps can build large-scale impact.  About the Guest: Megan Poliquin (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor with her Gambling Endorsement. Megan has specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of gambling disorder since 2018. She is well-versed in the areas of substance use, anxiety, depression, and relationship and financial stressors. Her counseling style is supportive, interactive, and empathetic. She encourages sessions to be client-led, with her role being to help guide you to your own path of gambling recovery. Megan’s clients would describe her as authentic, humorous, relatable, and encouraging. Megan believes a trusting therapeutic relationship is the most powerful tool to create lasting change. Gambling addiction carries burdens of shame and guilt that lead to isolation, but we all need human connections to thrive. Megan’s own personal experience in therapy has shown her that it can be life-changing. Megan believes that no matter what is going on in your life, you are worthy and deserving of healing, happiness, and recovery.  Links: E-mail: [email protected] https://www.zepfcenter.org/gambling-treatment-program/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-poliquin-567a2185?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BVjelCD72S86%2BMr4ITY%2FlHA%3D%3D Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Psychoeducation is often treated as secondary to “real” clinical work—but what if it’s actually foundational?  In this episode of the Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast, we are joined by Tom Karl, Founder and CEO of R1 Learning, to explore the critical (and frequently undervalued) role psychoeducation plays in addiction treatment and recovery. Drawing from Tom’s background in corporate learning and development—and his personal recovery journey—the conversation challenges how treatment programs think about education, engagement, and fundamentals. Together, we unpack the gap between counseling and teaching skills, the importance of shared language and basic vocabulary in early recovery, and why engagement between sessions matters just as much as what happens in the therapy room. We also explore gamification, learning styles, stages of change, and how tools like micro-content and feedback loops can support both clients and clinicians.  This episode is a reminder that effective treatment doesn’t always mean more complexity—it often means returning to the basics and doing them well. About the Guest: Tom Karl founded R1 as the result of his own personal experiences in addiction, and recovery. The idea and vision for the R1 Learning System, the Discovery Cards, and R1 Discover App was inspired following Tom’s last substance use and hospitalization when he noted a lack of practical tools in addiction treatment settings. He has used the creation of the tools to help better understand himself, make a living amends to those he impacted, and build a positive path for others on a similar journey. Through R1, Tom’s goal is to put impactful self-discovery tools into the hands of individuals in recovery and empower them to reach their full potential. In addition, R1’s mission is to address the workforce shortage in the Behavioral Healthcare industry by equipping practitioners at all levels of knowledge, skill, and experience with evidence-based interactive support resources in both hands-on and online formats and in multi-languages. Tom has 25+ years of experience in workforce and leadership development, learning and development, employee engagement, and talent retention, working with global companies, government agencies, and education institutions. Links:  Website: https://r1learning.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/r1learning/posts/?feedView=all Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Sports betting is everywhere. But what has the rapid expansion of legalized gambling actually cost us? In this episode, journalist Danny Funt joins to discuss his book Everybody Loses: The Tumultuous Rise of American Sports Gambling. Together, we explore how America’s sports betting boom has reshaped sports culture, media coverage, public health, and consumer protections.  Danny shares insights from interviews with people who struggle with gambling, industry executives, researchers, and regulators. The conversation goes beyond financial losses and examines: The erosion of sports integrityVIP betting programs and emotional entanglement strategiesMisleading “risk-free” advertisingWeak consumer protectionsConflicts of interest between leagues and betting monitorsThe normalization of gambling in sports mediaWhy meaningful regulation may require crisis-level consequencesWe discuss how gambling problems affect high-functioning, disciplined individuals — challenging common stereotypes and humanizing the issue.  This episode asks a hard question: If sports betting continues to expand without stronger safeguards… who really wins? About the Guest: Danny Funt is the author of Everybody Loses: The Tumultuous Rise of American Sports Gambling. His reporting has appeared in The Washington Post, The New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal, and the Columbia Journalism Review. He previously worked as an editor at The Week magazine. A graduate of Georgetown University and the Columbia Journalism School, he lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his wife, Sally, their son, Louis, and their tuxedo cat, Wynnie. Links:  Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Everybody-Loses/Danny-Funt/9781668062029 E-mail: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-funt-2695b4a3/ Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Dr. Nicki Monti, therapist, speaker, and author of the memoir The Divine Traumedy of Nicky Joy: A True Grime Tale is an artist when it comes to how she speaks and writes about her story. Dr. Nicki shares her powerful and unconventional journey from addiction to sobriety and how humor became a lifeline in her recovery. From pursuing acting in California to running a phone sex business, and ultimately becoming a licensed therapist, Dr. Nicki’s story challenges stereotypes about what recovery “should” look like. The conversation explores addiction, pain, and personal responsibility, as well as the often-overlooked emotional toll of caregiving. This episode balances honesty, hope, and humor—reminding listeners that healing doesn’t require perfection, just willingness. About the Guest: Dr. Nicki J. Monti is not your typical therapist. Dr. Nicki instantly gets to the core of presented issues, and immediately provides a clear path for genuine change. Her no-nonsense approach combines with extraordinary compassion and good humor to offer a clear, authoritative voice free of judgment and full of possibility. She quickly brings forward what others have somehow missed and then offers practical tools for truly productive resolution. She is not only a great listener but she makes you feel safe, comfortable and open to what she has to say—she uses wit and her own experiences to reveal what’s undermining you, and to get you beyond being ‘stuck in your own story.’ Joining Dr. Nicki in a seminar, session or event, you will see first-hand her genuine care, humor and intelligence. Through her insightful advice and encouragement, she assists your most positive emotional and life changes.  Dr. Nicki’s successful book series about being Stuck In The Story No More, her Television appearances, her articles, and podcasts have made her into a household name. Dr. Nicki has been seen on Keeping Up with the Kardashians, Millionaire Matchmaker, Love Handles and many other Reality Television shows where her compassion, honesty and genuine expertise shine an instant light on circumstances and offer actual change. Links: Website: https://stucknomore.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dr-Nicki-J-Monti/179364015418429  X: https://twitter.com/DrNicki  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NickiMonti  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnickimonti/  Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

What is it like to be in the shoes of a wife and mother who is drunk?  Emily Redondo, Texas-based author with Minnesota roots and writer of the memoir Wife, Mother, Drunk shares her vulnerability about her experiences. Emily shares her personal journey through alcoholism, recovery, and the challenges she faced as a mother navigating stigma and expectations.  Explore the impact of addiction on families, the barriers mothers face in seeking help, and the importance of compassion in treatment and recovery spaces. Emily speaks openly about return to alcohol use, shame, self-acceptance, and why recovery is never a straight line. Learn about the value of empathy, meeting people where they are, and creating safe, judgment-free spaces for those struggling with substance use.  A powerful conversation for anyone interested in addiction, motherhood, recovery, and the courage it takes to tell your story. About the Guest: Emily Redondo is a writer, bookworm, and proud mother of four whose articles on recovery and motherhood have been featured in Love What Matters, Genius Recovery, and Legacy Launchpad. Her interests include gardening, camping, collecting antique curiosities, and tinkering with her latest diy project in her workshop. She lives with her husband, Pete, and their lively household in McKinney, Texas. Links: https://www.emilyredondoauthor.com/  Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Explore how faith-based principles and professional counseling can work hand-in-hand to support individuals facing life’s most complex challenges. Haley Scully joins this episode to take a deep dive into Hope for the Heart’s Biblical Counseling Methodology, the Care and Counsel Handbook, and the organization’s mission to equip ministry leaders, helpers, and everyday believers.  This conversation covers: the challenges and opportunities of integrating spirituality into counseling, meeting clients where they are spiritually—without assumptions or pressure, balancing ethical standards with faith-driven approaches, and how the “Keys for Living” library addresses over 100 topics including substance use, gambling, anger, anxiety, forgiveness, and leadership.  Listen for the talk about the difference between discipleship and counseling, and where the two overlap.  The episode highlights how Hope for the Heart serves as a bridge, not a replacement, between professional counseling and spiritual guidance, providing tools that speak to the whole person. About the Guest: Haley Scully, MA, is an experienced and relatable conference speaker, author and trainer who has been with Hope for the Heart since 2011. Currently serving as the Senior Vice President of Ministry Operations, she began her journey within the organization by working in onsite counseling programs before transitioning to international ministry, where she has provided training in over 35 countries. In her role, Haley oversees various initiatives, fosters partnerships, coordinates resources, and delivers fundamental counseling, coaching and care ministry training for church leaders and parachurch organizations globally. Additionally, she co-hosts the acclaimed podcast, Hope Talks, where she shares practical insights on discovering hope amidst everyday challenges. Haley holds a degree in Communications from Oklahoma State University and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. She is deeply passionate about connecting those in distress with hope in Christ and applying God’s Word to their daily lives. Links: Website: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HopeForTheHeart  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-scully-bb858947/  Book: Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Do you think you matter?  Dean Sykes does and brings to the discussion his decades-long mission of helping teenagers understand their worth. Dean shares his personal journey—from experiencing trauma and emotional abandonment to finding healing through forgiveness and authenticity. Together we explore the themes behind his book You Matter, including the importance of self-worth, listening, and being present for those who are hurting. Learn about communication in families, the growing impact of technology on teens, and why active listening is essential for genuine connection. About the Guest: Since January of 1993, Dean Sikes has been on the road, communicating words of hope in high schools, Teen Challenge Centers, churches and prisons across America and in nations of the world. To date, he’s spoken at over four thousand three hundred events, sharing the YOU MATTER message with millions of people.   In addition to an active road outreach, the You Matter team is engaged everyday of the year on social media, sharing messages of hope for everyone, everywhere. Over the last two years, the team has had over 165 million views of Dean’s videos online.  A published author, to date, Dean has written thirty-three (33) books, all of which serve as follow up resources for teens and their families.  Together with his wife, Lori, the Sikes family make their home in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Links: Website: https://deansikes.net/  E-mail: [email protected]  Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

“What happens when you have a nurse and robot dispensing medication?”  Sam Wilson of Opio Connect discusses how technology is transforming opioid treatment programs and methadone access. Sam shares her work with Opio’s Zing and Zing Satellite systems—innovations designed to expand access to methadone, reduce clinic bottlenecks, and free up nurses to focus more on patient care. Listen to the challenges of adopting new solutions in the industry, the impact on patient experience, and why empowering frontline staff is key to better outcomes in addiction treatment. About the Guest: Sam Wilson (COO) Health tech strategy and ops expert. Co-founded Confidant Health, multi-state behavioral health practice and built ATLAS, the nation's first quality measurement system for addiction treatment facilities. Links: https://opioconnect.com/about/  https://vimeo.com/1135178951?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci  Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

Joining alongside one another in recovery is challenging - especially without giving a guide map for how this looks or works.  Lisa Katona Smith, author of Parallel Recovery and TEDx speaker, discusses the essential—but often overlooked—role families play in the recovery process.  Lisa shares insights from her work and writing, challenging the traditional labels of “enabling” or “codependent” and instead offering a compassionate, empowerment-focused approach. She explains how families can stay engaged in healthier ways, use tools like genograms to understand their patterns, and embrace harm-reduction strategies that support both their loved ones and themselves. About the Guest: Lisa Katona Smith, M.Ed., is the founder of Parallel Recovery® and a nationally recognized voice in the evolving landscape of family recovery. A certified Peer Recovery Specialist, TEDx speaker, and author of the forthcoming book Parallel Recovery: A Guide for Those Who Love Someone Struggling with Substance Use Disorder, Lisa brings over 20 years of experience as a master-level educator, combined with personal lived experience navigating a loved one’s addiction. Motivated by the limitations of traditional support models, Lisa developed the Parallel Recovery® framework—a structured, compassionate process that helps families step into healing, reclaim influence, and rebuild connection in the face of substance use and mental health challenges. Her work is grounded in the belief that recovery is not a solo act, and families don’t need to wait on the sidelines. Through education, coaching, curriculum development, and professional training, she empowers families and clinical teams alike to move beyond survival toward sustainable change. Lisa collaborates nationally with treatment centers, care teams, and professional partners to deliver evidence-informed care, family systems consulting, and high-acuity case support. Known for her clarity, emotional depth, and strategic insight, she speaks regularly on transforming the family’s role in recovery—bringing voice to the untold side of the story. Links: https://lisakatonasmith.com/bio/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAguAjVzE7o  Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.

How are sports changing?  Neil Schwartz, President of SBRNET, provides a deep dive into how sports fandom has evolved—especially since the pandemic. We explore major shifts in fan behavior, including the rapid growth of streaming, the rising cost of live events, changes in athlete-fan interactions, and how sports continue to serve as a vital source of community and entertainment.  Neil also discusses the expanding world of sports betting, sharing insights from national data on how gambling influences fan engagement, spending, and team loyalty. Together, we examine the growing risks for youth, the impact of mobile betting, and why the industry needs stronger guardrails to protect young fans and maintain the integrity of sports. About the Guest: Neil Schwartz, President of SBRnet, Inc., has over twenty-five years of marketing and consumer research experience focused entirely on sports, fitness, and active lifestyle categories. Neil is regarded as an expert in the trends affecting sports fans across both team and individual sports. He leverages his extensive knowledge and experience in data analytics to generate insights and craft stories that industry leaders need to make informed decisions. SBRnet and the Sports Market Analytics Platform provide a comprehensive online platform covering nationwide sports business, sports marketing, and sports marketing analytics, utilizing syndicated, custom, and proprietary research for professional, minor league, and college sports. Previously, Neil worked for SportScanInfo from SportsOneSource and led the research team at the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). He has been a featured speaker at numerous industry conferences and events and is well respected for his collaborations with leading financial and investment firms, top brands, and retailers in the sports footwear and apparel sectors. Neil is also the host of the My First Job in Sports Podcast and co-founder of the annual Get in the Game Sports Business Career Conference. As President of SBRnet, Neil is dedicated to expanding the use of data within academic and related commercial fields such as sports management, sports business, sports marketing, and sports analytics.  Links: Website: https://sportsmarketanalytics.com/About.aspx  E-mail: [email protected] Support the show Thank you for listening to this episode of Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast. To learn more about the podcast visit www.andrewjschreier.com  To inquire being a guest on the podcast or sponsorship opportunities you can e-mail [email protected]  Talking Addiction & Recovery Podcast is the follow-up to the book "Addiction & Recovery" by author and clinician Andrew J. Schreier.  This podcast explores discussions regarding important issues related to addiction and recovery.  Information you learn here is not typical of what you will find in academic textbooks and resources; and comes from the experiences of a clinical supervisor, clinical substance abuse counselor, and licensed professional counselor and the work with individuals and others involved in this field.  Listen as guests join the show and cover a wide range of topics looking to educate individuals, families, communities, organizations, institutions, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone else impacted by addiction and recovery.  Content is not intended to be treatment and is not affiliated with any specific group.