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 explores substance use disorders with expert guests.
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"Strong Fathers Making Healthy Homes" with Joshua Legg
08/05/2026
"Strong Fathers Making Healthy Homes" with Joshua Legg
Joshua Legg says his goal is always the same: to equip men with tools that strengthen families and lighten the load for the professionals who serve them. Joshua Legg is the proprietor of Joshua Legg Coaching. He provides pastoral care and mental health coaching and serves as Chair of The Papillion Center for FASD in Tennessee. He is focused on helping men grow into their full potential through a supportive yet challenging approach. With a strong understanding of FASDs and early life adversity, he is committed to fostering healing in men and their families. Joshua can be reached at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Closing the Gap Between Knowing and Doing" with Jeanne Foot
07/29/2026
"Closing the Gap Between Knowing and Doing" with Jeanne Foot
What keeps us stuck in a place that is unhealthy when we know we need to move? Jeanne Foot discusses the bridge between “knowing and doing.” Jeanne is the founder and CEO of The Recovery Concierge, a premier service for mental health, addiction recovery, trauma healing, and peak performance. In addition to her own lived experience, she holds credentials as an International Certified Alcohol & Drug Counsellor. Jeanne is also the host of the terrific podcast “Naturally High.” Jeanne’s work and information can be found at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"GLP-1 Drugs, Promise and Performance" with Dr. Kim Dennis
07/22/2026
"GLP-1 Drugs, Promise and Performance" with Dr. Kim Dennis
GLP-1 drug ads for weight loss are everywhere. The drugs, also, are now being studied for use in substance use disorder treatment and mental health disorders. Dr. Kim Dennis discusses GLP-1 receptor agonists and her work with treating eating disorders, addiction, trauma, and multi-occurring disorders. Dr. Dennis is the co-founder, CEO, and Chief Medical Officer at SunCloud Health. A board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating eating disorders, addiction, trauma, and multi-occurring disorders, she believes in and maintains a holistic perspective in the practice of psychiatry, incorporating biological, psycho-social, and spiritual approaches into nuanced, individualized treatment plans. A renowned expert in her field, Dr. Dennis is published in the areas of food addiction, the use of medication with family-based therapy for young people with anorexia nervosa, co-occurring eating disorders and self-injury, and gender differences in the development of psychopathology. She also contributes regularly to news networks, such as ABC News and CNN; other national press, including "The Huffington Post" and "Chicago Tribune"; and online health communities, such as Web MD, , , and her personal blog titled “Abundant Living by Dr. Kim.” SunCloud Health and Dr. Dennis can be contacted at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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’s Not Your Grandfather’s Beer Anymore" with Melissa Moore
07/15/2026
"It’s Not Your Grandfather’s Beer Anymore" with Melissa Moore
In order to increase sales in a sagging alcoholic beverage market, the alcohol companies have expanded their product line to include a multitude of alcohol-infused products, from sodas to teas. Melissa Moore discusses the marketing of alcoholic beverages and the young market being targeted. Melissa is a Certified Prevention Specialist and Owner & Trainer of M3 Consulting LG. Melissa has over 25 years of experience in public health prevention, community engagement, and coalition building—especially in rural settings. She’s based in Medford, Wisconsin. Melissa can be contacted at The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Modern-Day Snake Oil" with Michelle Sandberg
07/08/2026
"Modern-Day Snake Oil" with Michelle Sandberg
There are many products, regulated and unregulated, sold over the counter that contain substances that can contribute to addiction. Michelle Sandberg, the Executive Director of the Hope Council in Kenosha, Wisconsin, discusses these products, sold everywhere from vape shops to convenience stores. Michelle also talks about the challenges that communities and organizations like the Hope Council face in an effort to intervene and offer help. Michelle and the Hope Council can be reached at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Where Are We? Opioids and Options" with Dr. Sterling Elliott
07/01/2026
"Where Are We? Opioids and Options" with Dr. Sterling Elliott
Dr. Sterling Elliott talks about where we are with the ongoing opioid crisis, pain management, and available unregulated pseudo-pharmaceutical combinations available in smoke shops and gas stations. Dr. Elliott is the Clinical Pharmacist Lead for Ambulatory Surgery Practice at Northwestern Memorial Hospital (NMH) in Chicago, Illinois. He specializes in matters related to post-operative pain management in ambulatory surgeries. Dr. Elliott’s expertise on patient-centered pain management education and harm reduction efforts has been featured on numerous Chicago, as well as national print, radio, and television outlets. Dr. Elliott speaks at conferences, including keynote sessions, sharing his expertise in pain management, the American opioid epidemic, and harm reduction with Narcan®. . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Life By Design, Not By Default" with Jeanne Foot
06/24/2026
"Life By Design, Not By Default" with Jeanne Foot
Jeanne Foot doesn’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. Using evidence-based therapeutic methods, she works with her clients to create a recovery path that works for their lifestyles. Jeanne is the founder and CEO of The Recovery Concierge, a premier service for mental health, addiction recovery, trauma healing, and peak performance. In addition to her own lived experience, she holds credentials as an International Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor. Jeanne is also the host of the terrific podcast “Naturally High.” Jeanne’s work and information can be found at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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 Place to Recover" with Jim Boad
06/17/2026
"A Place to Recover" with Jim Boad
Finding a place to live once someone is in recovery is often a challenge. Jim Boad has addressed that challenge through initiative and expertise. Jim is a Pacific Coast entrepreneur helping others to open and scale profitable, sustainable group homes and sober living facilities. Jim and his business can be reached at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opioid crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"We Do Better When We Know Better" with Barb Clark
06/10/2026
"We Do Better When We Know Better" with Barb Clark
As a hidden brain injury, FASD can manifest in ways that often lead to challenging behaviors, which can feel overwhelming for caregivers relying on traditional parenting strategies. Making it even more difficult is knowing where to get an accurate diagnosis and help. Barb Clark is the Founder and CEO of FASD Mosaic where she provides coaching, training, and consulting on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), trauma, neurodivergence, and challenging behaviors. Barb is the author of a fabulous book, “Raising Kids and Teens with FASD: Advice and Strategies to Help Your Family to Thrive!” She also serves as the head coach for the international FASD Caregiver Kickstart program. Barb can be contacted at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Proof Alliance, Addressing FASDs" with Mollie O’Brien
06/03/2026
"Proof Alliance, Addressing FASDs" with Mollie O’Brien
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) affect up to 1 in 20 people and is particularly prevalent among young people in the adoption and fostering system. As a hidden brain injury, FASDs can manifest in ways that often lead to challenging behaviors, which makes diagnosis and intervention challenging. Mollie O’Brien, the Executive Director of Proof Alliance in St. Paul, Minnesota, discusses FASDs and how, through community, collaboration, and education, they work to create lasting change and improve outcomes for those impacted by an FASD. Proof Alliance can be contacted at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Doing the Hard Things" with Matt Christensen
05/27/2026
"Doing the Hard Things" with Matt Christensen
Matt Christensen grew up as the oldest child in a loving family. He had already lost his sense of direction when, in his early twenties, he also lost his mom. Poor choices and decisions followed. Then his family introduced him to The Other Side Academy. First as a student, now as a staff member, Matt talks about The Other Side Academy and its programs. The Other Side Academy and its programs can be reached at https://www.theothersideacademy.com/. The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Shouting Into the Darkness" with Matthew Laughrin
05/20/2026
"Shouting Into the Darkness" with Matthew Laughrin
Matthew Laughrin wrote his memoir, “,” while incarcerated. On March 1, 2009, Matthew woke to a police tactical team bursting into his home. He was arrested for the fatal drug overdose of a teenage girl who had died in his house the previous evening while he was asleep. His book chronicles the decisions and missteps he took that led to that day. Matthew’s book, “Shouting into the Darkness: Life as a Mentally Ill Drug Addict in the 21st Century,” can be found on Amazon. The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Does Rehab Really Work" with Jim Savage
05/13/2026
"Does Rehab Really Work" with Jim Savage
Rehab is a word used to describe everything from a short detox to a long residential stay. Jim Savage discusses what constitutes rehab and what makes for a successful program. Jim is the owner of Rehab Works! Family Support Program and Jim Savage Consulting. He is the author of “Rehab Works! A Parent’s Guide to Drug Treatment” and a new ebook, “Sobriety Doesn’t Have To Suck: A Guide To Finding Happiness, Excitement, And Spiritual Fulfillment In Recovery.” Jim has been helping individuals and families in recovery for over three decades. Jim’s contact information, video series, trainings, and other works can be accessed at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"We’re Not A Car Wash" with Joe Henderson
05/06/2026
"We’re Not A Car Wash" with Joe Henderson
It is safe to say that addiction and mental health services are needed across the country and that providing those services, while incredibly rewarding, is also extremely challenging. Joe Henderson, the Founder and CEO of Sierra Health + Wellness Centers and the Elijah House Foundation in California, talks about those rewards and challenges. His approach to Addiction Treatment centers on identity reconstruction, stigma reduction, and community-based healing. Joe is a skilled and passionate leader who has direct oversight of all aspects of Sierra Health + Wellness. Sierra Health + Wellness can be contacted at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Hunger for More in Life" with JD Tremblay
04/29/2026
"Hunger for More in Life" with JD Tremblay
Everyone copes with depression and life stress differently. JD Tremblay coped by pushing his body athletically to limits few ever experience. Tremblay is the Director of Human Performance at Hungry Warrior Academy, a Canadian human performance specialist, Naturopathic practitioner, Integrated Engineering graduate, and military veteran with over a decade of service. He is also the author of “Hunger for More in Life.” In his spare time, JD serves as a firefighter and is an ultra-endurance athlete recognized worldwide for numerous extreme endurance achievements. JD’s contact information and publications are available at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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 World Deserves Your Gift" with Harvie Herrington
04/22/2026
"The World Deserves Your Gift" with Harvie Herrington
Harvie Herrington is a former college and pro football player now dedicated to helping youth and adults overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. He is a motivational speaker, trainer, and author. His inspirational presentations focus on diversity, self-leadership, overcoming adversity, and metabolic health. His book, “80/20 Rule: Removing the Friction From Your Life to Become a Better Athlete,” discusses the physical and mental dedication it takes to succeed. Harvie’s contact information is at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Less Stress" with Dr. Gary Sprouse
04/15/2026
"Less Stress" with Dr. Gary Sprouse
Stress is a common concern across all ages and demographics. It causes some to seek relief by engaging in destructive behaviors. Dr. Gary Sprouse, or as he is better known across the country, “The Less Stress Doc,” discusses how he helps clients alleviate the stress in their lives with the goal of living in their Happy Place. Dr. Sprouse is a former primary care physician from Maryland who retired from private practice after 38 years. He is the author of the award-winning books, "Highway to Your Happy Place: A Roadmap to Less Stress" and "Mindset Matters." He also has developed his Stress Reducer Loop Model as a replacement for how we define addiction. Dr. Sprouse’s contact information, socials, and publications are available at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Apricity, Whole Life Recovery" with Michelle Devine Giese, Dan Haak, and Jolie VerVoort
04/08/2026
"Apricity, Whole Life Recovery" with Michelle Devine Giese, Dan Haak, and Jolie VerVoort
In 2018, STEP Industries and The Mooring Programs merged to become Apricity, a progressive recovery community in Wisconsin. The leadership team brought to life the vision of a one-of-a-kind recovery organization that offers treatment, employment, transitional living, and education. Michelle Devine Giese, the CEO of Apricity, Dan Haak, the President of Apricity Contract Packaging and Recovery Support, and Jolie VerVoort, the President of Residential Treatment Services, discuss their unique, innovative program of recovery, work, and support. Apricity can be reached at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Both Can Be True" with Jessica Guerrieri
04/01/2026
"Both Can Be True" with Jessica Guerrieri
Recovery, like life, is full of what seems like contradictions. Love and resentment, passion and despair. Jessica Guerrieri details the complexities of recovery brilliantly in her new novel, “Both Can Be True.” Jessica 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. In this podcast, she discusses her recovery and her new book, ”Both Can Be True.” Jessica’s book, other works, and contact information can be accessed at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Always At Choice -- Coping With Grief and Loss" with Larry Freeborg
03/25/2026
"Always At Choice -- Coping With Grief and Loss" with Larry Freeborg
We may not be able to choose the circumstances we’re in, but we always have a choice regarding how we respond. That is just one of the life lessons Larry Freeborg talks about in his book, “Always At Choice: Strategies for Moving on After the Death of a Spouse or Life Trauma.” Larry was forty years old when his wife died from acute leukemia on the day after Christmas. He became a widower with four young children. Larry started his life over during a recession, with no job, no money, and no partner to help him raise his children. He discusses what he learned, what helped, and what’s important. Larry’s book and contact information can be found at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Who I’m Becoming" with Jonathan Schwartz
03/18/2026
"Who I’m Becoming" with Jonathan Schwartz
Jonathan Schwartz was at the top of his game serving as a business manager to celebrities including Beyonce, Alanis Morisette, Gwenyth Paltrow, Mariah Carey, Linkin Park, and others. But he kept a dark secret: he was a compulsive gambler and cocaine addict. Over the course of six years he embezzled over $7 million from his clients to fund these addictions. Jonathan’s criminal behavior earned him a six-year sentence in prison. He returned to society in 2020, went back to school, and got a degree in alcohol & other drug counseling, followed by an advanced degree as a therapist. Today, he makes a living as the Director of Programing at , a top-tier, luxury treatment facility in Encino, California. . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Breaking the Cycle of Addiction Starts with Understanding It" with Dana Emold
03/11/2026
"Breaking the Cycle of Addiction Starts with Understanding It" with Dana Emold
When we’re going through difficult times, often the tendency is to isolate and withdraw. Help is available, but often folks are reluctant to reach out and ask for it. Dana Emold talks about a new venture she is piloting for a free Family Education / support group at Wellbrook Recovery in Brookfield, Wisconsin, providing education on topics like "Understanding the Disease of Addiction" and "Codependency / Enabling.” Dana is licensed as a Professional Counselor and Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor at InTune Collaborative Counseling in Mequon, WI. The free Family Education / support group is at Wellbrook Recovery in Brookfield, WI. Dana, the Education program, and InTune Collaborative Counseling can be reached at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Spinal Fusion and Pain Management" with Dr. Rohan Lall
03/04/2026
"Spinal Fusion and Pain Management" with Dr. Rohan Lall
Anyone who has experienced chronic lower back pain knows that relief is sometimes difficult to find. Dr. Rohan Lall discusses a groundbreaking new procedure being developed to help those with chronic lower back pain. Dr. Lall is a neurosurgeon specializing in robotic and minimally invasive spine surgery, complex spinal surgery, surgery for brain and spinal tumors, and skull base surgery/pituitary tumor surgery. He has been a leader in robotic spinal surgery and is actively involved in the development of new technologies in spine surgery. He is the Chief Medical Officer of SynerFuse, a Minnesota-based medical device company innovating the spine industry with its integrated approach to spinal fusion and chronic pain. Dr. Lall and SynerFuse can be reached at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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 Eat (and Drink) Now" with Marion Nestle
02/25/2026
"What to Eat (and Drink) Now" with Marion Nestle
Recently the federal government released new guidelines for alcohol and food. Marion Nestle discusses those new guidelines and her lifetime’s work as a nutrition expert and nutrition policy advisor. Marion is a Paulette Goddard Professor of Nutrition, Food Studies, and Public Health, Emerita, at New York University in the department she chaired from 1988-2003 and from which she retired in September 2017. She has a PhD in molecular biology and an MPH in public health nutrition from the University of California. Marion is a past senior nutrition policy advisor in the Department of Health and Human Services and editor of the 1988 Surgeon General’s Report on Nutrition and Health. She is the author, co-author, or co-editor of sixteen books, several of them prize-winning, most notably “Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health” (2002); “Safe Food: The Politics of Food Safety” (2003); “What to Eat” (2006); and her new book, “What to Eat Now.” Marion can be reached at Marion Nestle | NYU Steinhardt. Her books are available everywhere. The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Bringing Hope to Rural Communities" with Tania Reindl
02/18/2026
"Bringing Hope to Rural Communities" with Tania Reindl
Rural communities in America have a shortage of resources for mental health and substance use disorders. That shortage makes services provided by rural schools so important in the lives of students and families. Tania Reindl talks about the challenges and opportunities that working in rural communities presents. Tania is a Mental Health Navigator in a small, rural school district in Wisconsin. She has worked as a county social worker and has also worked with the Department of Corrections. More information about rural communities and mental health can be found at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Heart to Heart" with Donna Pope
02/11/2026
"Heart to Heart" with Donna Pope
The mission of the Heart to Heart Foundation is to support programs providing services to children needing homes, biological parents making crucial decisions for their children, and adoptive parents hoping to provide the families and homes that children long for. Donna Pope is the Director of Heart to Heart Adoptions based in Sandy, Utah. She talks about their work and the joys and challenges of raising adopted children. Heart to Heart, and Donna, can be reached at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder" with Guida Brown
02/04/2026
"Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder" with Guida Brown
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) is often overlooked, misdiagnosed, and understudied. Individuals with FASDs and their families also face persistent stigma, negative stereotypes, and harmful biases, due to public misunderstandings. Guida Brown talks about how we can assist women and families both during and post pregnancy. Guida is the Principal for Guided by Guida and serves as a Community Relations Consultant for the US Drug Testing Laboratories in Des Plaines, Illinois. She also serves as President of the board of Orchids FASD Services Wisconsin, the Wisconsin affiliate for FASD United. Guida is certified by the State of Wisconsin as a Substance Abuse Counselor and a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder trainer. She is also a Kenosha, Wisconsin, County Board Supervisor. She can be reached at . Orchids FASD Services of Wisconsin and their resources are at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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"Journey Out of the Bottle" with Jane Musgrave
01/28/2026
"Journey Out of the Bottle" with Jane Musgrave
Jane Musgrave grew up on the outskirts of Brisbane, Australia. She endured a troubled childhood that led her to seek an escape in alcohol. What began as a coping mechanism quickly grew into an all-consuming addiction, shaping decades of her life and leading to a series of difficult choices. She details those struggles and her recovery in her terrific book, “My Journey Out of the Bottle: Four Rehabs and a Recovery.” and . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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 Recovery-Supportive Campus" with Tim Rabolt
01/21/2026
"A Recovery-Supportive Campus" with Tim Rabolt
As college students everywhere are returning to campus following winter break, some are struggling with substances. Those in recovery navigated the holidays soberly. And a few, like Tim Rabolt, are there to help anyone on a college campus who has substance use issues. Tim is the Program Manager for “Recovery at Marquette,” an urban university in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is a Past Executive Director of the Association of Recovery in Higher Education (ARHE). Tim has 14 years of sobriety and is a proud girl dad to Nina. . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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 Man With a Chamber — Battling CTE" with William Person
01/14/2026
"One Man With a Chamber — Battling CTE" with William Person
William Person is a former nine-year Team USA Bobsled athlete whose career left him battling the devastating effects of CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy). At his lowest point, he could barely get up off the floor, lost in confusion, depression, intense headaches, and a deteriorating brain. Hope came when he discovered Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, which restored clarity in his thinking, color to his vision, and purpose to his life. William shares his story to raise awareness of brain damage in sports, the military, and other lifetime collisions and share the importance of protecting and healing the brain. His mission is to open a nonprofit CTE Recovery Center to help athletes, veterans, and civilians heal from brain injuries -- at no cost to them. To realize this mission, he’s launched a GoFundMe: , which will help him raise funds to purchase a medical grade hyperbaric oxygen chamber to open a CTE Recovery Center where anyone battling CTE and brain injury symptoms can get free treatment. William's YouTube channel is at . The State of Wisconsin's Dose of Reality campaign is at . More information about the federal response to the ongoing opiate crisis 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 or Westwords Consulting. 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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