The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast

In this episode, award-winning podcast host Ashley Loeb Blassingame interviews Kaitlin Henry, who has been sober for five years. Kaitlin shares her journey from growing up in an environment where alcohol was normalized to becoming a mother and struggling with the pressures of parenthood and societal expectations. She discusses her experience with the sober curious movement, realizing that despite not having outward consequences, she continually broke promises to herself about her drinking. Kaitlin emphasizes the importance of self-care, noticing feelings, and creating healthy coping mechanisms to maintain sobriety and overall well-being.

In this episode, Julie Reisler shares her compelling journey through a challenging childhood marked by a father's PTSD and a mother's emotional instability. Julie opens up about the impact of her parents' love and dysfunction, and how it shaped her coping mechanisms and path to recovery. Through honest reflection, Julie discusses her struggles with food addiction, the pressures of people-pleasing, and the profound realization of her parents' limitations. Additionally, Julie delves into her spiritual journey, highlighting how she found solace and healing through practices like energy medicine and tapping. Listeners will gain insight into the complexities of growing up in a chaotic environment, the importance of finding healthier ways to self-soothe and heal, and the transformative power of spiritual growth in recovery.

In this enlightening episode of "The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast," host Ashley Loeb Blassingame sits down with Diana Zaheer, a spiritual teacher and healer with a unique background in energy work and global spiritual traditions. Diana shares her journey from seeing energy as a child to studying with spiritual teachers across Asia. They delve into the concept of the critical voice, its impact on our lives, and how to work with it to foster self-compassion and inner peace. Diana also discusses her latest project, "Over the Counter Meditations," a collection of spontaneous meditations paired with beautiful music and animations, aimed at helping people connect with their inner selves. What the Listener Will Learn: Diana Zaheer's background and spiritual journey Diana’s childhood experiences with seeing energy Insights from studying various spiritual traditions globally Practical ways to start understanding and feeling energy and spirituality Importance of self-compassion and inner exploration Techniques for checking in with oneself and understanding the inner world The concept of the critical voice and how it impacts us Methods to recognize and work with the critical voice for personal growth The creation process of "Over the Counter Meditations" Combining meditation, music, and animation for spiritual learning

Elle shares her incredible story of surviving a mass shooting at a music festival. She opens up about her adoption, the challenges she faced growing up, and the impact of the shooting on her mental health. Elle discusses her physical injuries, including being shot in the head, and the surgeries she underwent to remove bullet fragments. She also talks about the emotional journey of healing and processing the trauma, including experiencing anxiety and panic attacks. Elle emphasizes the importance of therapy in her recovery. Elle shares her experience of recovering from a traumatic brain injury and the impact it had on her mental health. She emphasizes the importance of therapy and the benefits it brought to her life. Elle discusses the challenges of having an invisible injury and the difficulty of explaining her experience to others. She talks about the changes in her life and her decision to start her own business to help others with mental health issues. Elle's message is that everyone has bravery and inner resiliency within them, and it's important to seek help and support when needed. Takeaways Elle shares her experience of surviving a mass shooting at a music festival and the impact it had on her life. She discusses her adoption and the challenges she faced growing up, including feeling different and navigating her identity. Elle opens up about her physical injuries, including being shot in the head, and the surgeries she underwent to remove bullet fragments. She talks about the emotional journey of healing and processing the trauma, including experiencing anxiety and panic attacks. Elle emphasizes the importance of therapy in her recovery and finding support to navigate the aftermath of the shooting. Therapy is important for everyone, regardless of whether they have experienced trauma or not. Having an invisible injury can be challenging, as others may not understand the internal impact it has on a person's life. Sharing one's story and experiences can inspire and help others who may be going through similar situations. It's important to recognize and appreciate the bravery and resiliency within oneself. Recovering from a traumatic experience can lead to a reevaluation of life and a desire to find purpose and joy. Comparing traumas and downplaying one's own experiences is not helpful for healing and growth. Seeking help and support is essential for navigating the challenges of mental health. Opening up about mental health can spark meaningful conversations and connections with others. Anxiety and preparedness can coexist, but it becomes unhealthy when it prevents a person from enjoying life. Finding joy and pursuing one's passions can be a powerful way to reclaim life after trauma.

In this gripping and heartfelt episode, Ashley sits down with Lindsay S to explore her harrowing yet inspirational journey through addiction, psychosis, and the path to recovery. Lindsay shares candidly about her childhood, the trauma that shaped her early years, and the intense struggles with eating disorders and substance abuse. Her story is one of resilience and hope, as she details her battles with addiction, the impact on her family, and the ultimate triumph of finding sobriety and reclaiming her life. Listeners will be moved by Lindsay's raw honesty and inspired by her unwavering determination to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. What Listeners Will Learn: The impact of childhood trauma on addiction and mental health. The complexities and challenges of dealing with eating disorders. The role of family dynamics and expectations in personal development. The experience of psychosis and its effects on daily life. Strategies for seeking help and the importance of support systems in recovery. The significance of comprehensive treatment programs and the 12-step process. The emotional and psychological journey of regaining custody and rebuilding family relationships. The importance of willingness and perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds. The transformative power of self-forgiveness and making amends. The potential for recovery and redemption, no matter how severe the struggle.

In this episode, Ashley interviews Dr. Eric Arzubi, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist with a fascinating journey from finance to psychiatry. Dr. Arzubi shares his personal and professional experiences, highlighting the importance of mental health care, especially in rural communities. They delve into the challenges and nuances of mental health diagnosis, the stigma around medication, and the critical need for early intervention. The conversation also explores the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on long-term health outcomes and the potential benefits of telehealth in increasing access to mental health services. You Will Learn... Dr. Eric Arzubi's unique journey from finance to becoming a child and adolescent psychiatrist. The significant impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on long-term mental and physical health. Insights into the stigma surrounding mental health medication and how to approach it. Differences in mental health challenges between high-pressure urban settings and rural communities. The critical importance of early intervention in addressing mental health issues. The role of telehealth in providing accessible mental health care, especially in underserved rural areas. How to recognize signs of mental health issues in children and the importance of addressing them early. Practical advice for parents dealing with their children's mental health, including the balance of medication and therapy. Personal stories and reflections from Dr. Arzubi's practice and his own experiences with anxiety. The benefits of using technology and innovative practices to overcome barriers in mental health care delivery. Contact Dr. Arzubi: linkedin.com/in/drzoobs https://frontier.care/ https://www.instagram.com/frontier_psychiatry/ https://www.facebook.com/frontierpsych.care

In this episode, Preston Moore joins the podcast to discuss his journey and insights on mental health, addiction, and emotional dysfunction. Preston, who recently delivered a powerful TEDx Talk, shares his perspective on the root causes of mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of addressing family dysfunction and emotional fitness. He highlights the long journey many face before receiving a diagnosis and the critical need for proactive emotional health practices. Throughout the conversation, Preston and Ashley delve into personal anecdotes, the importance of support systems, and practical strategies for fostering emotional well-being. Bullet Points Preston Moore discusses his recent TEDx Talk on mental health and addiction stigma. Emphasizes the importance of addressing family dysfunction and emotional fitness. Highlights the long average duration before mental health diagnoses (11 years). Discusses inherited emotional rules and their impact on family dynamics. Explores the importance of proactive emotional health practices and support systems. Personal anecdotes on parenting and emotional health strategies. The role of community and peer support in recovery and emotional well-being. Practical tips for creating a mental and emotional fitness plan. The importance of self-awareness and willingness to change for improving family dynamics.

In this episode, we sit down with Kayli, who opens up about her childhood in Rock Springs, Wyoming, and the complex family dynamics that shaped her early years. Kayli shares her experiences growing up with a single mother, navigating life in a dysfunctional but loving home, and facing the challenges of mental health and substance abuse. As a CPS worker, Kayli witnessed the harsh realities of trauma and addiction, further compounding her own struggles with suicidality and alcoholism. Now, with 4 months of sobriety, she recounts her journey through trauma, her path to recovery, and the ongoing battle to find stability and peace. Kayli's story is a testament to resilience and the power of seeking help.

Join me for an exclusive interview with Arlina Allen, the dynamic host of The Self Help Junkie, a podcast that delves deep into personal growth, self-improvement, and recovery. Arlina is not only a renowned certified recovery coach but also the visionary founder of Sober Life School, an innovative program dedicated to helping individuals transform their lives through sobriety. In this episode, Arlina shares her journey, insights, and the driving forces behind her passion for helping others. Listeners will gain valuable wisdom on overcoming obstacles, embracing change, and achieving lasting recovery. In our conversation, Arlina opens up about her personal experiences with addiction and recovery, offering a candid and inspiring perspective on what it takes to rebuild a life of purpose and fulfillment. She discusses the creation of Sober Life School and its mission to provide comprehensive support for those seeking sobriety. Additionally, Arlina shares practical tips and strategies for personal development, emphasizing the importance of mindset, self-compassion, and community in the recovery journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their life, whether they are in recovery or simply on a path to self-betterment. Links: Sober Life School- http://www.soberlifeschool.com Reinvent - Self Esteem Course http://www.selfesteemcourse.com Podcast http://www.odaatchat.com Social Media: Facebook Page: facebook.com/odaatchat Instagram: @odaatpodcast @arlinaallen Recovery podcast Arlena Allen Sobriety journey Overcoming alcoholism Self-worth and recovery Sober Life School Reinvent self-esteem End self-sabotage Certified recovery coach Long-term sobriety

In this captivating episode of "The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast," host Ashley Loeb Blassingame interviews Grammy-winning composer and board-certified music therapist Brendan Berry. Brendan recounts his incredible transformation from a punk rock bassist to a leading figure in music therapy and mental health advocacy. Struggling with social anxiety and addiction, Brendan found solace and healing through music. His journey led him to not only overcome his personal challenges but also to achieve professional success and recognition. Throughout the episode, Brendan discusses the therapeutic power of music, sharing how it played a crucial role in his recovery. He provides valuable insights into the intersection of creativity and mental health, highlighting the importance of using one's passion as a tool for healing. Listeners will be inspired by Brendan's resilience and dedication, learning how music can serve as a powerful means of overcoming adversity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health, music therapy, and the incredible stories of those who turn their lives around against all odds. Tune in to hear Brendan Berry's story of redemption, recovery, and musical triumph. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the healing power of music and the inspiring journey of a true artist and advocate. Grammy Interview with Brenden Berry MusiCares

In the podcast interview, Samantha Lander shares her journey through substance abuse, recovery, and personal growth, revealing her early struggles with addiction that began in her youth in St. Louis, Missouri. Despite an outwardly ideal childhood, her life was fraught with emotional neglect, leading to early substance use and later complications like infertility treatments that deepened her dependency. Her addiction resulted in a prison sentence and ongoing battles with sobriety, particularly challenging as she navigated a toxic marriage and motherhood, highlighting the deep emotional work necessary for stable recovery. Samantha also discusses her efforts to rebuild her life after addiction, focusing on the importance of community support and personal resilience. She leverages her platform through initiatives like a significant sober giveaway on Instagram to connect with others in recovery, while juggling her role as a fitness trainer. Her story underscores the complexities of integrating recovery with personal and professional life, emphasizing continuous effort in maintaining sobriety and pursuing personal growth amidst the challenges of rebuilding relationships and managing a business. Samantha Lander: @seefitliving Podcast Instagram: @couragetochange_podcast Want to connect with the host, Ashley Loeb Blassingame? : @ashleyloebblassingame Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to apply!

In this enlightening episode, join our host as they delve into the revolutionary world of Bright Line Eating with Susan Peirce Thompson. Discover why traditional weight loss strategies often fail and how thousands have found lasting success beyond mere willpower. Susan shares her gripping personal journey from battling various addictions to achieving sobriety and becoming a neuroscientist. Learn about the Susceptibility Scale—a pivotal tool in Bright Line Eating that reveals how your brain may be hindering your weight loss efforts. If you’re scoring high, it’s not just about calories; it’s about reprogramming the brain. Tune in for an episode filled with humor, insight, and inspiring stories that could change the way you think about dieting forever. Bright Line Eating: www.brightlineeating.com Bright Line Eating: @brightlineeating Susan Peirce Thompson: https://www.susanpeircethompson.com/ Podcast Instagram: @couragetochange_podcast Want to connect with the host, Ashley Loeb Blassingame? : @ashleyloebblassingame Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to apply!

Welcome Back to The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast! Season 6 Begins In this special mini episode, I’m excited to share some major updates and the new direction for The Courage to Change podcast as we launch into Season 6. After a much-needed longer break, I’m back, but this time, I’m flying solo. I'll dive into why I've taken this new journey without my usual team. Big Changes and New Beginnings: After 14 incredible years, my journey with Lionrock Recovery, the company I built with my co-founders, has come to an end. It’s been sold to a fantastic organization that’s set to take it to new heights. With the transition, I’ve taken The Courage to Change with me, stepping out like a baby bird from the nest, ready to navigate the world of podcast production on my own. What’s Next for The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast? Episodes will now be released every Wednesday. Mark your calendars to catch every update and story we're eager to share. As I take on the helm of production single-handedly, I'm also funding the podcast personally. Your support means more than ever. How You Can Support C2C: Share the podcast with friends to help us gain more traction. Leave a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. Consider making a donation to support production costs at ashleyloebblassingame.com by clicking on "donate." Special Mention: For those interested in production insights or producer consulting, feel free to reach out to our former producer, Scott Drochelman, who is now pursuing other ambitious projects. Thank you for sticking with us through these transitions. I’m thrilled to embark on this new season with you all!

As we bid farewell to Season 5 of The Courage to Change, join Ashley and Producer Scott as they ring in the new year. Get ready for a New Year's rap, Jamaican Merlins, The Courage to Change Awards, glimpses into 2024 dreams, and a New Year's party that doesn't require you to leave your house. Put on your finest attire and stop by our place as we close out 2023. Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey? Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use. Already in recovery, find an online support community. Connect with The Courage to Change Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast Lionrock Resources Nurses Program | lionrockrecovery.com/programs/nurses Lionrock Recovery | lionrockrecovery.com Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings

Hilary Phelps was an overachiever from the beginning. She was a straight “A” student and the fastest swimmer in the country for her age group, until the age of 14, when she took her first sip of alcohol. From that moment, she was hooked and spent the next 15-years drinking, and feeling empty, lost, and hopeless. At 29, Hilary checked herself into rehab for substance use disorder. It wasn’t just about putting down the drink, but about changing people, places and things in her life that ultimately caused her to use in the first place. Hilary kept her recovery and sobriety quiet until recently when she celebrated 15-years of continuous sobriety in June 2022. It was then she realized “we’re only as sick as our secrets” and decided to share her story. It was then she realized her mission and purpose wasn’t to stay quiet, but to help those healing in private by sharing her recovery and healing journey out loud. Hilary is a speaker, an addiction recovery advocate, writer, and holistic wellness coach. Her mission and purpose is to help other women find their voice and heal from anything that is holding them back from finding their purpose. Tune in to Learn About Early Achievements: Discover Hilary's early success as a straight "A" student and the fastest swimmer in the country until the age of 14, when her life took a drastic turn after her first sip of alcohol. 15 Years of Struggle: Follow Hilary's 15-year-long battle with alcohol, during which she felt empty, lost, and hopeless. Explore the challenges she faced and the impact of substance use on her life. 15 Years of Sobriety: Hear about Hilary's decision to keep her recovery and sobriety private until she celebrated 15 years of continuous sobriety in June 2022. Understand the realization that led her to share her story and break the silence. Mission and Purpose: Explore Hilary's mission and purpose, which evolved from staying quiet about her recovery to actively helping others healing in private by openly sharing her recovery and healing journey. Empowering Women: Delve into Hilary's commitment to empowering women, guiding them towards healing from anything that holds them back from realizing their purpose. To find other similar episodes by topic, click here. Connect with Hilary Website | hilaryphelps.com Instagram | @hilaryphelps_ Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey? Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use. Already in recovery, find an online support community. Connect with The Courage to Change Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast Lionrock Resources Nurses Program | lionrockrecovery.com/programs/nurses Lionrock Recovery | lionrockrecovery.com Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings

Brendan Berry grew up feeling uncomfortable in his body. Anxiety and suicidal thoughts came early and he found himself in many situations where he felt like an outsider. He excelled in sports, but even that seemed to take him away from his peers as his skills meant he was asked to play at higher levels with older kids. When hazing in sports began, he left the group and began hanging out with the kids who drank and used. He began waking up in the night to drink vodka after his parents went to sleep. His grades tanked at one point dropping as low as a .56 gpa. He became disheveled and wore the same clothes everyday. His relationship with his parents unraveled to the point where they told him they were sending him away to Cedar’s Academy. There he witnessed or experienced mental, physical and sexual abuse. When he finally escaped the situation he hit the bottle as hard as he possibly could. As his drinking and using escalated, a dream remained of finding a career in music. He found a way into music school but only lasted a semester and half before he ODed and ended up in the ICU in a coma with a ventilator. The use didn’t stop there. What followed was rehab, relapses, and finally lasting recovery. With recovery came a life he’d always dreamed of. Getting back into music school, making music for film and television and even winning a grammy. Today Brendan works for MusicCares which works to provide Mental Health & Addiction Recovery Services, Health Services, and Human Services for people in the music industry. Tune in To Learn About Early Struggles with Mental Health: Discover Brendan's early challenges with anxiety and suicidal thoughts, creating a sense of discomfort in his own body. Explore the situations where he felt like an outsider, exacerbating his feelings of isolation. Traumatic Experiences at Cedar’s Academy: Learn about Brendan's traumatic experiences, including witnessing or experiencing mental, physical, and sexual abuse at Cedar’s Academy. Understand the profound impact this had on his mental health and addiction struggles. Rehab, Relapses, and Lasting Recovery: Explore Brendan's journey through rehab, relapses, and ultimately achieving lasting recovery. Witness the challenges and triumphs along the way that shaped his path to sobriety. Dreams Fulfilled in Recovery: With recovery came the realization of Brendan's dreams, including getting back into music school, creating music for film and television, and even winning a Grammy. To find other similar episodes by topic, click here. Connect with Brendan MusicCares | musicares.org Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey? Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use. Already in recovery, find an online support community. Connect with The Courage to Change Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast Lionrock Resources Nurses Program | lionrockrecovery.com/programs/nurses Lionrock Recovery | lionrockrecovery.com Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings

In this Q and A episode of The Courage to Change, we address the overwhelming sentiment many caregivers face: "I'm So Burnt Out With My Addicted Loved One." Ashley explores practical strategies to foster hope, set healthy boundaries, and maintain resilience while supporting someone through addiction. Tune in to learn about: Hope Without Expectations: Discover how to cultivate hope without setting unrealistic expectations. Explore actionable steps to foster a positive outlook while respecting the unpredictable nature of addiction recovery. Avoiding the Rollercoaster: Learn strategies to detach from the emotional rollercoaster often associated with loving someone with addiction. Gain insights into how to maintain your emotional balance and provide steadfast support without being pulled into the chaos. Setting Strong Boundaries: Explore the importance of establishing and maintaining strong boundaries to prevent burnout. Discover practical tips for self-care and communication that help you preserve your well-being while continuing to support your loved one. Join us as we navigate the challenging terrain of loving someone with addiction, offering practical tools and insights to help you find strength, maintain hope, and cultivate resilience in the face of burnout. Tune in and empower yourself with strategies to navigate this difficult journey with compassion and grace. To find other similar episodes by topic, click here. Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey? Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use. Already in recovery, find an online support community. Connect with The Courage to Change Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast Lionrock Resources Lionrock Life Mobile App | lionrock.life/mobile-app Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings

Ashley Potts grew up in a household where Substance Use Disorder. Violence, incarceration and trauma were regular occurrences. She felt a deep desire to be loved but the environment meant that love was hard to come by. And eventually her addicted mother left her a note telling her that she was going to get the car fixed; Ashley didn’t see her again for 5 years. Ashley got drunk at 9 and found Oxy at 13 then cocaine. She was expelled from school. She bounced around from living with her alcoholic father to her grandparents home where she lived an addicted uncle and another who was deep into devil worshiping. What followed were years of violence and use. Her mother came in and out of her life and Ashley desperately wanted to save her. IV drug use started and Ashley racked up endless arrests and at one point faced 100 pending felony counts against her. She didn’t think she’d live to 21. Then miraculously she found recovery and made attempt after attempt to go back to school and to change her life. She was discouraged at every turn by programs that told her they wouldn’t allow her to continue because there would be no work for someone with her record. Today, in addition to being in executive leadership she also teaches some of the master’s level classes she’d been excluded from taking. Tune in To Learn About Childhood Ravaged by Addiction: Discover Ashley's challenging upbringing in a household plagued by Substance Use Disorder, where violence, incarceration, and trauma were regular occurrences. Understand the impact of this environment on her deep desire for love and the challenges she faced in finding it. Years of Violence and Addiction: Follow Ashley through years marked by violence and addiction, as her mother came in and out of her life. Witness the desperation to save her mother and the onset of IV drug use, leading to numerous arrests and facing 100 pending felony counts. Miraculous Turn to Recovery: Explore the miraculous turning point in Ashley's life when she found recovery. Learn about her relentless attempts to go back to school and change her life, facing discouragement from programs due to her record. Executive Leadership and Teaching: Discover Ashley's remarkable achievements today, where she not only holds an executive leadership role but also teaches master's level classes—opportunities that were initially denied to her. Understand the resilience and determination that propelled her to these accomplishments. To find other similar episodes by topic, click here. Connect with Ashley LinkedIn | Link Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey? Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use. Already in recovery, find an online support community. Connect with The Courage to Change Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast Lionrock Resources Nurses Program | lionrockrecovery.com/programs/nurses Lionrock Recovery | lionrockrecovery.com Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings

Cait Madry found her sobriety in a slightly different way than most. Growing up she had an addicted parent and felt like they were villainized when their addiction was revealed. Later in life, that affected how she was willing to view her own addiction. Growing up, she wanted to prove that she could be different from her addicted parent. Her hope was that she would not let her substance use affect her life. That strategy didn’t go according to plan. So often she drank she had the deep feeling that her standards were nowhere near what she wanted them to be. Then after four years of friendship, Cait’s best friend became more than that, fueled by late nights of drinking. 6 months later, their relationship was crumbling under booze-soaked fighting and being less than their best selves. Cait began reading and learning about a new way to view her relationship with alcohol. Someone was finally presenting a new perspective on her drinking and even her need to label herself an addict. Through this learning, she attempted to curb her drinking and each time she found her way back to alcohol until finally finding sobriety in the wake of a Thanksgiving blowout with her girlfriend. In the aftermath, they both made the choice to end their relationship with alcohol. Today Cait co-hosts the podcast “Clearheaded”: The Guide for Sober Care where she and her partner handpick the very best out there to enhance or kickstart your sober-care routine. Tune in To Learn About: Childhood Influence: Discover how Cait's childhood, marked by the experience of having an addicted parent, influenced her perception of addiction and the way society tends to villainize individuals with substance use disorders. Struggling with Standards: Learn about Cait's struggle with maintaining the standards she set for herself, particularly as she found herself frequently turning to alcohol. Explore the disconnect between her aspirations and the reality of her drinking habits. Attempts at Curbing Drinking: Explore Cait's efforts to curb her drinking, each attempt followed by a return to alcohol. Witness the turning point in her journey that led to lasting sobriety, triggered by a Thanksgiving blowout with her girlfriend. Relationship with Alcohol Ends: Learn about the transformative decision Cait and her girlfriend made to end their relationship with alcohol in the aftermath of the Thanksgiving incident. Understand the mutual commitment to sobriety that emerged from this challenging experience. To find other similar episodes by topic, click here. Connect with Cait Instagram | @caitmadry TikTok | @caitmadry Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey? Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use. Already in recovery, find an online support community. Connect with The Courage to Change Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast Lionrock Resources Nurses Program | lionrockrecovery.com/programs/nurses Lionrock Recovery | lionrockrecovery.com Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings

In the latest episode of The Courage to Change, we unravel the intricate layers of addiction recovery by exploring a pivotal question: "What made the last time I drank different?" Join Ashley as she shares a firsthand account, backed by professional insights, shedding light on the unique dynamics that make this recovery attempt stand out from the rest. Tune in to learn about: Personal Journey: Gain deep insights into a firsthand account of why the last attempt to quit alcohol was distinct, exploring the mindset, circumstances, and the key factors that set this recovery journey apart. Professional Perspective: Delve into the expert viewpoint on what happens within an addict during this critical phase. Uncover the psychological and physiological aspects that contribute to a transformative recovery experience. Family Dynamics: Understand what families should grasp when witnessing their loved ones engage in destructive behaviors, believing it will be the catalyst for change. Explore the delicate balance between support and tough love, and how to navigate these challenging moments. Moments of Clarity: Discover what families and friends should do when their loved ones experience a moment of clarity. Learn how to seize these opportunities to facilitate meaningful conversations and encourage positive steps towards recovery. To find other similar episodes by topic, click here. Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey? Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use. Already in recovery, find an online support community. Connect with The Courage to Change Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast Lionrock Resources Lionrock Life Mobile App | lionrock.life/mobile-app Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings