Avoiding the Addiction Affliction
When does it stop being a party and start becoming a problem? Is there a way to steer clear of addiction? Every Wednesday, Mike McGowan, host of the podcast "Avoiding the Addiction Affliction," explores substance use disorders with expert guests.
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"Innovation" with Dr. Mark Hrymoc
05/07/2025
"Innovation" with Dr. Mark Hrymoc
The field of addiction medicine and mental health has seen incredible innovation over the past two decades. Dr. Mark Hrymoc discusses those innovations and where they may lead. Dr. Hrymoc is the Founder of the Mental Health Center in Los Angeles, California. He has extensive expertise in the psychopharmacology of addiction and other mental health disorders. He is double board-certified in General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry and was previously board-certified in Addiction Medicine. Dr. Hrymoc previously held the position of Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA, where he supervised training psychiatrists at the Addiction Psychiatry Clinic. He and the Mental Health Center can be reached at https://www.mentalhealthctr.com/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"It Always Comes Back To You" with Dr. Jason Giles
04/30/2025
"It Always Comes Back To You" with Dr. Jason Giles
Drugs don’t care where you grew up, went to school, or what you majored in. When you develop destructive habits, though, you have an opportunity to turn your life around by developing new, healthier habits. Dr. Jason Giles discusses the road to recovery from substance use disorders. Dr. Giles is a graduate of University of California Berkeley. He earned a degree in molecular biology and then earned his medical degree from UC Davis. Dr. Giles completed an internship in General Surgery, residency in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, and earned board certifications in Anesthesiology and Addiction Medicine. He was a cardiac anesthesiologist and pain specialist before devoting his full attention to addiction medicine starting in 2005. He is the author of a new book, “The Addiction Doctors Manual for Behavioral Health Technicians: What to Do When You Don't Know What to Do” and a previous book, “Outsmart Your Addiction.” His books can be found at and Dr. Giles can be reached at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Moving Past Surviving to Thriving" with Katy Arvidson
04/23/2025
"Moving Past Surviving to Thriving" with Katy Arvidson
It is not trite to say that some people see challenges as obstacles and others see them as opportunities. Katy Arvidson was ten years old when she was diagnosed with Pompe disease. In spite of that diagnosis, she kept going and eventually obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work. Katy is currently Ms. Wheelchair Alaska, embracing a platform of not just surviving but thriving. She talks about her life, work, and dedication to helping people. Katy can be supported and reached through The Dane Foundation, whose mission is to provide for the unique needs of individuals with physical and developmental disabilities: More information about the Ms. Wheelchair USA competition can be found at: The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"One Neighborhood at a Time" with Desilynn Smith
04/16/2025
"One Neighborhood at a Time" with Desilynn Smith
Desilynn Smith lost her husband to drugs in 2021. Her husband, a Black man, belonged to one of the highest demographic groups in our country losing their lives to drugs: older Black men. Desilynn talks about her work with that community and her dedication to doing that work in her husband’s memory. Desilynn is the Executive Director of Uniting Garden Homes, Inc. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She holds Bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice and Special Education and a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling, specializing in Substance Abuse Counseling. With over 20 years dedicated to serving her community, she has focused on addressing the injustices within the justice system, advocating for individuals with mental health issues, and tackling community trauma. Uniting Garden Homes, Inc., their many programs, and Desilynn can be reached at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea" with Jessica Guerrieri
04/09/2025
"Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea" with Jessica Guerrieri
Jessica Guerrieri is a writer and novelist who lives in Northern California with her husband and three daughters. With a background in special education, Jessica left the field to pursue a career in writing and raise her children. With over a decade of sobriety, she is a fierce advocate for addiction recovery. She discusses her recovery and her award-winning debut book club fiction novel Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea. Jessica’s book, other works, and contact information can be accessed at https://www.jessicaguerrieri.net/. The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"The Breath of Life" with Rev. Dr. Monica Cummings
04/02/2025
"The Breath of Life" with Rev. Dr. Monica Cummings
Some people seem to be born to help others. Rev. Dr. Monica L. Cummings is one of them. She has dedicated her life to being of service to others. Drawing on her experience as a college basketball player, Army Officer, Peace Corps Volunteer, parish and community minister, university faculty member, yoga and meditation instructor, and substance abuse counselor, Rev. Dr. Cummings supports those she works with with an inclusive, non-judgmental, compassionate, and relational approach to the healing process. In this podcast, she discusses her life’s work, interests, the importance of community, and recovery. Information about Dr. Cummings and iRest yoga can be found at . The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Spring Breakup — A Change of Seasons" with Joshua Arvidson
03/26/2025
"Spring Breakup — A Change of Seasons" with Joshua Arvidson
If you ask almost anyone about the time of year that people feel the most down, the time people are most at risk for depression, suicide, and increased substance use, they will answer winter. Surprisingly, perhaps, the research shows that it’s actually when spring moves into summer. Joshua Arvidson discusses that research and what can be done to help individuals improve their mental health during challenging times of the year. Joshua is Chief Operations Officer for Alaska Behavioral Health. He is a licensed clinical social worker and an expert in trauma informed care for children who established the Alaska Child Trauma Center at Alaska Behavioral Health. He serves on the Steering Committee for SAMHSA’s National Child Traumatic Stress Network and is the Principal Investigator for the Military Family Child Trauma Program. He’s also on the Editorial Review Board for the Journal of Child and Adolescent Trauma and has presented on childhood trauma at over 100 conferences, including the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies. Joshua serves on the Board of Directors for FOCUS and has designed and taught courses on clinical practice with children and adolescents and childhood trauma for the University of Alaska Anchorage. Joshua has published in the journals Child Welfare 360, Child Maltreatment, the Journal of Child and Adolescent Trauma, and Trauma, Abuse and Violence. Alaska Behavioral Health, its resources, and its programs can be reached at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Finding Purpose After the Dream" with Bradie Ewing
03/19/2025
"Finding Purpose After the Dream" with Bradie Ewing
Like a lot of young people, Bradie Ewing dreamed of playing college and professional football. He became one of the few to achieve that dream, but all too soon, the dream ended. Bradie discusses how to reset your life, your goals, and your dreams. Bradie Ewing is a National Account Coordinator for Kelley Supply, Inc. He is also a motivational speaker, sales professional, and former college and professional football player who played with the University of Wisconsin before moving into the NFL with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Atlanta Falcons. He can be reached at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Cutting Off the Help" with Kandyce Walker, RN
03/12/2025
"Cutting Off the Help" with Kandyce Walker, RN
Getting help for mental health and substance use issues is not easy. It’s made more difficult when access to the appropriate care is denied. Kandyce Walker discusses her work with people experiencing mental health crises, and her advocacy to get them the help they need. Kandyce was the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Nursing at Trauma Recovery Institute in Cedar Park, Texas. That center, unfortunately, closed due, in part, to lack of reimbursement. Kandyce began working in trauma and recovery in 2006 as an EMT, then worked as a Paramedic, Emergency Medical Dispatcher, and now as a Registered Nurse. Working with patients throughout the process of a physical trauma, Kandyce was witness to its impact on people both physically and emotionally. Kandyce can be contacted at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"A Healthy, Fresh Start" with Abbie Timmerman
03/05/2025
"A Healthy, Fresh Start" with Abbie Timmerman
It’s not unusual that those who have experienced substance use disorders or severe mental illnesses have had interruptions and difficulties in their employment. Re-entering the workforce in recovery presents obstacles. Abbie Timmerman talks about the challenges and opportunities people new to recovery with issues in their employment history face when seeking employment. Abbie is a Talent Acquisition Leader & Business Partner with the Panaro Group, a 100% woman-owned recruitment firm with over 30 years of expertise in building a Recruiting Center of Excellence. Abbie has a decade and a half of success delivering effective, targeted talent acquisition, people development strategies, and programs for business and industry. The The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Just Get Help" with Nanci Schiman, MSW, LCSW
02/26/2025
"Just Get Help" with Nanci Schiman, MSW, LCSW
Getting help for a substance use disorder is not a one-stop proposition. There are obstacles, doubts, backslides, and often frustrating delays, waiting lists, and an absence of resources. Nanci Schiman talks about the challenges an individual encounters when finally making the decision to stop using substances and get help. Nanci is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of experience in the mental health field working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Getting help can be challenging, but it is well worth the lifesaving effort. Nanci can be reached at . The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Raised by Wolves, Trapped by Demons" with Mimi Tallo
02/19/2025
"Raised by Wolves, Trapped by Demons" with Mimi Tallo
Mimi Tallo grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania, a northeastern, blue-collar town if there ever was one. Surrounded by dysfunction, abuse, and addiction, Mimi talks about her struggle to make something of her life while battling the demons that seemed to pop up around every corner. Mimi is a speaker, author, and podcast maven. Access to her books and story are , and her podcast can be found here: The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Honor Bound" with Tom LaGrave
02/12/2025
"Honor Bound" with Tom LaGrave
Tom LaGrave is a former Navy SEAL. His military career ended due to drug use. After a recovery program, he set out on a new journey. It began with his working with adolescents, then a return to higher education, and finally licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He is the author of a new book, called “Special Welfare . Social Warfare,” which pulls together all of his many years of experience, giving a roadmap of hope, especially to younger people. Tom and his socials can be found at: . More information about the Honor Bound Academy can be found at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"A Second Chance" with Eddie Jones
02/05/2025
"A Second Chance" with Eddie Jones
Eddie Jones is an attorney who found himself in trouble with drugs and with the law. A federal prison sentence allowed him the opportunity to get help and turn his life around. Now, twenty-three years into recovery, Mr. Jones is an attorney in the Paducah, Kentucky, office of Boehl, Stopher & Graves and is also the McCracken County Commissioner. After years of helping others through his volunteer work, Eddie recently received a pardon from President Joe Biden. He discusses his troubles and his recovery. He can be reached at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"From Blackout to Blessing" with Melissa Huray
01/29/2025
"From Blackout to Blessing" with Melissa Huray
There isn’t a script to follow that turns growing up in a chaotic family into living a life of peace and serenity. In fact, it seems like a miracle when someone does turn that life around. Melissa Huray is a former radio and television broadcaster, an addiction counselor, and an author whose memoir "Blackout to Blessing” chronicles her path towards sobriety and salvation. Melissa is currently the Executive Director of the Lindell Recovery Network and the host of "The Hope Report,” a daily internet television show. She has also written a new book, a daily devotional called "Radical Freedom.” Access to her books and story are at , and daily internet TV show can be found here: The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"It Can Be a Wonderful Life" with Guida Brown
01/22/2025
"It Can Be a Wonderful Life" with Guida Brown
For many, spending time with family during the holidays is joyful and fulfilling. For others, spending time with family is emotionally challenging as they navigate varying degrees of disease, disinformation and dysfunction. Guida Brown talks about how we can take care of ourselves, set healthy boundaries, and handle relationship dysfunction with honesty and respect. Guida is the Principal for Guided by Guida and serves as the Community Relations Consultant for the US Drug Testing Laboratories in Des Plaines, Illinois. She has been an adjunct faculty member for Carthage College, University of Wisconsin -- Parkside, Concordia University, and Gateway Technical College. Guida is certified by the State of Wisconsin as a Substance Abuse Counselor, a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder trainer, and an Intoxicated Driver Program Assessor. She is also a Kenosha (Wisconsin) County Board Supervisor. She can be reached at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Drawing a Hard Line" with Jordan Davis
01/15/2025
"Drawing a Hard Line" with Jordan Davis
Jordan Davis found himself at a crossroads between his passion and his addiction. He discusses the decision he made to get his life back on the road to success. Jordan is the director of operations of The Chocolate Moose, a restaurant and creamery in Bloomington, Indiana. He is also the host of the podcast “No Dishes,” a discussion dedicated to finding Bloomington’s culinary gems. He can be reached at , and his podcast can be found at . The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Alternatives - Ketamine Therapy" with DJ Quam
01/08/2025
"Alternatives - Ketamine Therapy" with DJ Quam
DJ Quam is in recovery from a substance use disorder but experienced ongoing depression and occasional anxiety. After discussing options with his partner and sponsor, he decided to try ketamine therapy. He discusses his experience and results. The that ketamine and compounded ketamine products aren’t approved to treat any psychiatric disorders, although a ketamine-derived drug called esketamine is approved for some people as part of treatment-resistant depression in a certified clinical setting. More information about the use of ketamine for treatment-resistant depression can be found here: and here: FDA warns about compounded ketamine for psychiatric disorders. DJ’s previous podcast can be found here: The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Climbing the Rope" with Janice Claps
01/01/2025
"Climbing the Rope" with Janice Claps
There are many roads to long-term recovery. Janice Claps discusses the road she took and her belief that predicaments are wholly self imposed through our own thoughts, actions, and behaviors. Janice is an Expressive Therapist at in Waukegan, Illinois. She is also a yoga instructor, CrossFit coach, meditation teacher, and recovery mentor. She is an Active member of The Phoenix Sober-Active Community and describes herself in her bio as “a sober health and wellness professional with a dark sense of humor who enjoys candy and mischief from time to time.” The Phoenix Sober-Active Community information can be found at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"More Than Perfect" with Troy Schaefer
12/25/2024
"More Than Perfect" with Troy Schaefer
The holidays are often a time of reflection and gratitude. Troy Schaefer shares a story about a moment with his father and how each of them viewed that moment moving forward. Troy is the Principal of Sevastopol, Wisconsin, Middle and High School. He was also a college pitcher and professional bowler, but, for this story, he was a son with a deep love and appreciation for the gift his father gave him. Watch the Bowling With The Champs video clips: Video 1: Video 2: The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Curveballs" with Gail Taylor
12/18/2024
"Curveballs" with Gail Taylor
Losing her father early in her life created a trauma that took Gail Taylor on a lifelong journey full of curveballs. Gail talks about turning that trauma into inspiration. Initially working in finance and experiencing remarkable success as an investment advisor, Gail fearlessly embarked on a profound second act in life that transformed her into a prolific songwriter, motivational speaker, and philanthropic force. She is the author of Curveballs: Unlocking Your Potential Through Personal Growth and Inspirational Music. Gail Taylor’s work and contact information can be found at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Light Up the Longest Night" with Michelle Sandberg
12/11/2024
"Light Up the Longest Night" with Michelle Sandberg
December 21 is the longest night of the calendar year. Michelle Sandberg, the Executive Director of the Hope Council in Kenosha, Wisconsin, discusses their second annual, “Light Up the Longest Night” event, remembering those who are suffering from or who have succumbed to addiction as well as honoring those in recovery. Michelle also talks about the challenges that organizations like the Hope Council face and the many programs they offer to help and heal local communities. Michelle and the Hope Council can be reached at . Light Up the Longest Night registration and support information can be found at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Generational Learning" with Dr. Daniel Ciccarone
12/04/2024
"Generational Learning" with Dr. Daniel Ciccarone
Daniel Ciccarone, MD, talks about the apparent decline of fentanyl deaths across the country in 2023 and early 2024 and the reasons why, if the data is accurate, that the decline might be happening. Dr. Ciccarone is a Professor of Family Community Medicine in the School of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. He is the recipient of numerous awards and honors for his work with addiction medicine, street drugs, particularly heroin and its many derivatives, and his work with the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS and related diseases in socially-marginalized populations. Dr. Ciccarone discusses what steps might be most effective to end the fentanyl spiral. Dr. Ciccarone can be contacted at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Making a Meaningful Impact" with Stephanie Short
11/27/2024
"Making a Meaningful Impact" with Stephanie Short
Stephanie Short began drinking in elementary school. By the time she dropped out of high school in her junior year, her use had intensified, and so did the problems that came with it. Taking whatever drugs were trending at the time, Stephanie’s use and difficulties continued until she got into enough trouble to end up in prison. And then she said, “enough.” Now, six years into recovery, she discusses how she got to a place of recovery and serenity. Stephanie is now a Certified Peer Specialist and Recovery Coach and the owner of Esares Wellness Services. She is also a Community Impact Coordinator for Health with the United Way of Door County, Wisconsin. Stephanie and Esares Wellness can be reached at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"The Love Habit" with Rainie Howard
11/20/2024
"The Love Habit" with Rainie Howard
If we are to have a better understanding of our relationships with family, friends, society, and ourselves, we need a way forward. Rainie Howard, an award-winning CEO, bestselling author, and relationship expert, discusses her book, The Love Habit. Because a person’s self-image directly influences daily habits (emotional, mental, and physical), which then directly impact relationships with others, Rainie talks about how to develop habits that lead to a healthier sense of self. Rainie is a devoted wife, nurturing mother, and award-winning humanitarian. She is the host of her own podcast, The Rainie Howard Show. Her groundbreaking work has been featured on major platforms like FOX, NBC, and ABC, reinforcing her status as a leading authority on emotional intelligence, mental health, and spiritual growth. Rainie’s book, socials, and her other works can be accessed at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"What to Say?" with Jessica Lahey
11/13/2024
"What to Say?" with Jessica Lahey
Words matter. Words are powerful, so powerful that many of us avoid talking about certain topics because of the emotions the words create. Jessica Lahey, the author of the New York Times bestselling books, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed and The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence, discusses losing her good friend to depression and suicide and her hesitancy in writing about it. Jessica’s work, including her article about her friend Mary Moore, and contact information can be accessed at . Our previous discussion is here: The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Your Whole Self" with Sydney Reece
11/06/2024
"Your Whole Self" with Sydney Reece
When people experience decline in their mental health, every part of their lives is affected. Sydney Reece discusses the need for an integrated approach in addressing a person’s mental, emotional, and physical selves. Sydney is the Vice President of Operations at Mind Body Optimization. She has a Master’s Degree in Counseling from University of North Texas and has worked in multiple settings across the healthcare industry, including private practice, outpatient clinics, and inpatient hospitals. Mind Body Optimization is based out of greater Dallas - Fort Worth, Texas. They and Sydney can be reached at or by calling 972-590-9909. The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Not On My Watch" with Jenny Prochut
10/30/2024
"Not On My Watch" with Jenny Prochut
What would you do if your life’s partner, the father of your children, was planning on ending his life? That was the situation facing Jenny Prochut when she discovered that her husband, Chris, a police commander, had made plans to do just that. Jenny tells the story of what she did to gather the resources necessary to save Chris’s life. Chris Prochut is a mental health advocate and law enforcement suicide prevention trainer whose own mental health issues led to his starting “Talk2EndStigma,” a training and resource firm dedicated to starting the conversation to end the stigma of mental illness. He and Jenny occasionally co-present trainings to help law enforcement understand mental health trauma. They and “Talk2EndStigma” can be reached here: Chris’s podcast, discussing his ordeal, can be found here: The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Turning the Page" with Jake Jansen and Douglas Darby
10/23/2024
"Turning the Page" with Jake Jansen and Douglas Darby
Jacob Jansen and Douglas Darby embody their company’s mission of “connection, strength, and hope.” Both Jake and Doug are survivors in long-term recovery. Separately, they established several businesses focused on recovery and then collaborated in 2020, forming Turning the Page, a company that offers educational programs about mental health, substance use disorders, and behavioral change. Jake, Douglas, and Turning the Page can be reached at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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"Voices for Recovery" with Cindy Burzinski
10/16/2024
"Voices for Recovery" with Cindy Burzinski
Recovery from Substance Use Disorder is everything from a challenge to a celebration. The recovering community is ever-present to support folks through the challenges and to celebrate together every step of the way. Cindy Burzinski discusses her work with the recovering community and the many programs available at Wisconsin Voices for Recovery. Cindy is the current Director of Wisconsin Voices for Recovery, part of the UW-Madison Department of Family Medicine and Community Health (DFMCH). She is also a licensed Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, person in long-term recovery, and researcher interested in increasing access to supportive resources within the recovery community. Cindy and Wisconsin Voices for Recovery can be reached at The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, ! Follow us on , , and . to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
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