Real Recovery Talk
In this episode, we delve into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of addiction recovery: sleep. Join us as we explore the profound impact of quality rest on the journey towards sobriety. We'll uncover the science behind how addiction disrupts sleep patterns and discuss the challenges individuals face in achieving restorative sleep during recovery. Through this episode with, we'll examine the importance of addressing sleep disturbances as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. From practical tips for improving sleep hygiene to strategies for managing insomnia and other sleep disorders, this...
info_outline 364 - Why Experiential Therapy and Art can HEAL your addictionReal Recovery Talk
If you are struggling with ANYTHING AT ALL please feel free to reach out to us: In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, host Tom Conrad is joined by licensed mental health counselor Brian Wood, known as B Wood, and primary therapist Maya to discuss the transformative impact of experiential therapy in substance abuse and mental health treatment. Through a deep dive into B Wood's journey from Barbados to becoming a pivotal figure in art therapy, the discussion reveals how engaging with the arts and other experiential modalities can facilitate healing beyond traditional talk therapy. By...
info_outline 363 - Virtual Therapy for Drug addiction and alcoholism: Does it ACTUALLY WORK?Real Recovery Talk
In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, we delve into the topic of online counseling in the journey towards recovery. Join us as we explore the emergence of virtual therapy platforms and their role in breaking down barriers to access treatment. We will share our opinions for who it is best for and who will most likely benefit the most from virtual therpy. If you have any questions you can reach us at [email protected]
info_outline 362 - How Yoga and Fitness changed my life foreverReal Recovery Talk
If you are struggling with ANYTHING AT ALL please feel free to reach out to us: In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, host Tom Conrad and Dr. Tambini engage in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with guest Morgan, exploring her unique journey from battling addiction to rediscovering her passion for yoga and fitness and eventually contributing positively to the recovery community. Morgan candidly shares the pivotal moments that led her from giving up her childhood swimming passion for partying to her subsequent struggle with addiction. Through her recovery journey, Morgan discovers the...
info_outline 361 - Redefining Recovery: Brian's Journey from ADHD and Addiction to SobrietyReal Recovery Talk
In this deeply personal episode of Real Recovery Talk, we delve into the transformative journey of Brian, who bravely shares his struggles with ADHD and addiction, and his courageous path to sobriety. Growing up with ADHD, Brian faced numerous challenges that often left him feeling misunderstood and disconnected. He eventually turned to substances as a means of coping, only to find himself trapped in a cycle of addiction. Through introspection and determination, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery and healing. With the support of loved ones and professional guidance, Brian confronted...
info_outline 360 - She was DEAD on arrival: Destiny shares her storyReal Recovery Talk
If you have any questions you can reach us at [email protected] In this powerful episode, Destiny shares her incredible journey of nearly 7 years of sobriety, marked by the pivotal moment of a life-altering car accident. From the depths of addiction to the heights of recovery, Destiny's story is one of resilience, growth, and the unwavering determination to overcome. Tune in as she reveals how the accident served as a wake-up call, propelling her towards a life filled with purpose and joy, and offering hope to anyone grappling with their own battles.
info_outline 359 - The Correlation of Bariatric surgery and AlcoholismReal Recovery Talk
In this episode we have a conversation about the often overlooked connection between bariatric surgery and alcoholism. In this episode, we unpack the unique challenges and risks associated with alcohol use post-surgery, as well as strategies for maintaining sobriety and optimal health. Whether you're considering bariatric surgery or supporting someone who has undergone the procedure, this episode offers valuable insights and guidance for navigating the journey towards a healthier, alcohol-free lifestyle. If you have any questions you can reach us at [email protected]
info_outline 358 - Pain Relief & Recovery: Balancing Pain Management and AddictionReal Recovery Talk
In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, we delve deep into the complex intersection of pain management and addiction. Join us as we unravel the tangled web of physical discomfort, pharmaceutical solutions, and the very real risk of addiction that lurks within. Pain is a universal human experience, and for many, finding relief becomes a top priority. But what happens when the quest for pain management leads down a slippery slope towards addiction? That's exactly the question we explore in this episode. But this episode isn't just about highlighting the problem – it's also about showcasing...
info_outline 357 - How he made a courageous comeback: First Responders Overcoming AddictionReal Recovery Talk
If you have any questions you can reach is at [email protected] In this compelling episode of Real Recovery Talk, we sit down with Pat, a retired cop with 20 years of service under his belt, who shares his courageous journey to sobriety. From patrolling the streets to navigating the complexities of addiction, Pat's story is one of resilience, redemption, and the power of second chances. Pat realized that his reliance on alcohol was spiraling out of control, threatening to consume his very identity. With the support of his family and fellow officers, Pat made the courageous...
info_outline 356 - The 4 C's of addiction: Craving, Compulsion, Control, Continued UseReal Recovery Talk
Hey there! Kick back, relax, and join us for another episode where we dive into the fascinating world of addiction. Today, we're exploring a concept that's as easy to remember as your ABCs but perhaps a tad more complex: the 4 C's of addiction. We'll start by breaking down what the 4 C's are all about: craving, control, continued use, and compulsion. Don't worry if you're not familiar with these terms – we've got you covered! First up, craving. We'll chat about those intense desires that sneak up on us when we least expect it, whether it's a sudden urge for a sweet treat or a...
info_outline“I have a purpose today, and I feel God steps in my life a lot and he was telling me to have courage and be fearless.” -Ira
Today, Ben and I chatted with Ira, who’s a real deal addict. He’s had a ton of health issues like cancer, diabetes, and even facing death as a result of his drug and alcohol addiction. But he managed to turn his life around and now he’s going on two years sober! Listen in as he talks about getting addicted, how he overcame it, and all the people who helped save his life along the way.
Struggling to Find His Place
Growing up in the 70s as half Irish and half Vietnamese, Ira felt like he never fit in anywhere. He went through some verbal and physical abuse at an early age.
In seventh grade at age 13, he picked up his first beer and smoked dope for the first time. By age 15, he was an IV drug user and hooked on cocaine and opiates. Then he dropped out of high school with only a 9th-grade education and eventually became a convicted felon in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Florida.
Years after his father passed away from cirrhosis, Ira turned to heavy drinking. “I drank alcoholically because I was searching for the high from dope and pills or whatever it may be, and I wasn’t getting it.”
This led to frequent illness and hospital visits that did nothing to help his addiction... until a pivotal low point marked the real beginning of his turbulent recovery.
Helping Others in Recovery
After a lot of pain and uncertainty about where his life was headed, Ira has taken up a mantle that not many sober people choose. He shares his story in hopes of helping others recover from their addictions. Through his own experience of 35 years and newfound faith, he meets great people in places like hospitals, treatment centers, and psyche wards. Ira knows the importance of having a supportive person or group on the road to sobriety.
Check out our website, where you can download episodes with helpful information for those in recovery and their families. Share this podcast with a friend and leave us a review!
Show Highlights
[05:26] What made Ira swear off heavy drinking for 13 years
[07:26] How he got high on alcohol and drugs at the same time
[10:49] Frequent hospital visits as an easy way to get a fix
[14:11] Why the substance of choice plays a minor part in addiction overall
[18:46] Ira’s downturn before the turnaround
[29:36] An intervention that led to him getting treatment for his health problems
[40:04] The place and the meeting that ended up saving his life
[46:58] How the last few months of Ira’s life have changed
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Podcast editing and show notes by Pro Podcast Solutions