Real Recovery Talk
We are a podcast dedicated to sobriety and recovery from alcohol and drugs. (And whatever other addiction that is out there) It doesn't matter what you have been through in the past. We have all done very bad things in our addiction. This does not define who we are. We know there is a way out of addiction. Family and loved ones, you play a part in this as well. There are plenty of stories out there of families and loved ones not knowing what to do with their addicted loved one. Let us guide you on the right things to do and the right decisions to make to ensure that you and your loved one gets the help that you need.
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544: Big Book Study: How It Works: Part 2
07/02/2025
544: Big Book Study: How It Works: Part 2
Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: In today’s episode, Erik takes us through the second half of How It Works from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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543: I Shouldn’t Be Alive... 8 Years Sober: Destiny's Story
06/29/2025
543: I Shouldn’t Be Alive... 8 Years Sober: Destiny's Story
Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: In this episode, we sit down with our friend Destiny, who just celebrated eight years of continuous sobriety! Destiny shares her incredible journey — from the depths of addiction to a life filled with purpose, hope, and service. We talk about what it really takes to stay sober long-term, how her mindset has evolved over the years, and the ways she continues to grow in her recovery. Whether you’re brand new to sobriety or years into the journey, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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542: Stop Doubting Yourself: Pastor Todd Mullins: Don't Let Doubt Take You Out
06/27/2025
542: Stop Doubting Yourself: Pastor Todd Mullins: Don't Let Doubt Take You Out
Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: DONT LET DOUBT TAKE YOU OUT: Christ Fellowship: https://www.christfellowship.church/ In this episode, I’m joined by Ryan Laabs and Pastor Todd Mullins, lead pastor of Christ Fellowship Church here in South Florida. Pastor Todd shares the story behind his new book Don’t Let Doubt Take You Out - and how doubt shows up in our addictions, recovery journeys, and everyday life. We all opened up about our own experiences with self-doubt: how it creeps in, how it can pull us off track, and what it takes to break through it. Whether you’re new to sobriety, a family member trying to support a loved one, or simply someone battling your own inner doubt, this conversation will inspire you to keep moving forward. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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541: Big Book Study: How It Works Part 1
06/25/2025
541: Big Book Study: How It Works Part 1
Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: In today’s episode, Erik takes us through the first half of How It Works from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. This is one of the most read and quoted sections in all of AA — but do people really understand what it’s saying? Erik breaks it down line by line, shares how it applied to his own recovery, and calls out some common ways people misinterpret this chapter. If you’ve ever wondered why “rigorous honesty” is so emphasized — or if you’ve gotten hung up on words like “spiritual awakening” — this episode will give you a deeper understanding. Part 2 coming soon! Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/37107545
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540: Mental Health Medications: Do They Really Work?
06/22/2025
540: Mental Health Medications: Do They Really Work?
Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: In this episode, Tom, Ben, and Dr. Tamanini sit down for a real conversation about antidepressants. We break down common questions like: Do they really work? Should people in sobriety take them? Are they overprescribed? Dr. Tambini brings her clinical experience to the table, and we talk openly about what we’ve seen in the addiction and recovery world when it comes to these medications. Whether you’ve taken antidepressants yourself, know someone who has, or are just curious about their role in mental health and sobriety—this is an honest conversation you won’t want to miss. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/37080525
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539: Why Men’s Mental Health Still Gets Ignored; AA is 90 YEARS OLD
06/20/2025
539: Why Men’s Mental Health Still Gets Ignored; AA is 90 YEARS OLD
Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/ In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, Tom Conrad and Benjamin B. discuss the impactful history and personal influence of Alcoholics Anonymous, the significance of Men's Mental Health Month, and their own experiences with these topics. These discussions also touch on the Family Reconnect program and their personal lives, including a humorous segment on pet care challenges. 00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode 00:04 Importance of Alcoholics Anonymous 00:18 Men's Mental Health Month 00:29 Personal Stories and Experiences 00:50 Family Reconnect Program Overview 01:20 Gratitude and Viewer Engagement 01:40 Impact of the Family Reconnect Program 02:34 Special Features of the Family Reconnect Program 07:37 Challenges in Helping Others 15:03 Celebrating 90 Years of Alcoholics Anonymous 15:50 Big Book Insights 19:21 Structure of AA and Personal Stories 30:44 Men's Mental Health and Community Support 42:54 The Role of Relationships 54:45 Closing Segment and Farewells
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538: Big Book Study: We Agnostics: Part 2
06/18/2025
538: Big Book Study: We Agnostics: Part 2
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we dive deeper into We Agnostics, continuing the conversation around developing a relationship with a Power greater than ourselves. This section of the chapter challenges us to look at our past beliefs—or lack thereof—and how those ideas may have blocked us from getting sober. We break down the spiritual logic laid out in the Big Book, discuss how fear and ego can keep us stuck, and explore what it really means to be open-minded when it comes to spirituality in recovery. Whether you’re new to the steps or revisiting them, this part of the study will help you connect the dots between willingness, faith, and the foundation for lasting sobriety. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/37046750
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537: From Heroin in the Hospital to 8 Years Sober – Josh’s Story of Redemption
06/15/2025
537: From Heroin in the Hospital to 8 Years Sober – Josh’s Story of Redemption
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, Tom Conrad, Benjamin B, and their guest, Josh, discuss Josh's eight-year sobriety journey. They dive into topics such as geographical change sparked by divine intervention, how life continues to challenge sobriety, and the significant impact of a spiritual journey. 00:00 Introduction of the Episode and Guests 00:21 Josh's Sobriety Journey and Key Moments 00:58 Sponsor Segment - Soberlink 02:29 Introductions Continued 03:42 Discussion on the Reality of Sobriety 14:31 Josh's Experience in Sober Living 17:42 The Importance of Community in Recovery 30:28 Impact of Helping Others in Recovery 35:23 Insights on Treatment and 12-Step Programs 41:10 Personal Reflections and Hobbies Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/37008300
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536: He Recovered from a TERRIBLE OPIOID ADDICTION!
06/13/2025
536: He Recovered from a TERRIBLE OPIOID ADDICTION!
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we’re joined by Kevin Lanning, host of The Rise Above Podcast, who shares his powerful story of recovery after nearly a decade of battling opiate addiction. Now with 7½ years clean, Kevin opens up about what it truly took for him to achieve long-term sobriety — from hitting bottom to finding purpose through service and connection. Kevin talks in detail about how working with others has been the driving force behind his recovery and how The Rise Above Podcast has helped him build meaningful relationships, spark honest conversations, and stay grounded in the principles of recovery. This is a conversation about healing, purpose, and showing up for the next person in line. If you’re looking for hope and real insight into what long-term recovery looks like, don’t miss this one. KEVIN YT CHANNEL: KEVIN IG: Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36927580
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535: Big Book Study Week 9: We Agnostics: Part 1
06/11/2025
535: Big Book Study Week 9: We Agnostics: Part 1
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In Week 9 of our Big Book Study, we dive into the first half of We Agnostics — one of the most pivotal and misunderstood chapters in Alcoholics Anonymous. This section speaks directly to those who struggle with the idea of a Higher Power, offering both challenge and invitation. We break down how the Big Book addresses resistance, doubt, and past experiences with religion, and why belief doesn’t have to come all at once — or look any certain way. If you’ve ever thought, “I want recovery, but I’m not sure about all this God stuff,” this is the episode for you. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36918460
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534: To the Addict Who’s Still Struggling…
06/08/2025
534: To the Addict Who’s Still Struggling…
Family Reconnect Waitlist: This one’s for the person who’s stuck—tired of using, tired of lying, tired of being miserable, but terrified of what sobriety actually looks like. I’m not here to sugarcoat it. Getting clean isn’t easy. It takes grit, honesty, and a willingness to do things differently. But it’s possible. In this episode, I’m talking directly to you—the addict who knows they need to change but doesn’t know where to start. If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it. You’re not broken. You’re not hopeless. But you are going to have to fight for the life you want. Let’s talk about what that fight looks like… and why it’s worth it. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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533: The Dark Side of Sobriety: What They Don’t Tell You
06/06/2025
533: The Dark Side of Sobriety: What They Don’t Tell You
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we sit down with Kat, who opens up about what it finally took for her to get sober after years of fighting recovery. She shares how she never saw herself as someone who would walk into an AA meeting — and definitely didn’t think it would work. But when nothing else worked, Kat made the decision to surrender. That decision changed everything. Kat talks in detail about how Alcoholics Anonymous helped her rebuild her life from the inside out. Today, she's not just sober — she's thriving, and she's passionate about giving back and helping others find the same freedom she did. If you’re on the fence about recovery — or love someone who is — this one’s for you. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36789710
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532: Big Book Study: Part 2 More About Alcoholism
06/04/2025
532: Big Book Study: Part 2 More About Alcoholism
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the Big Book with Part Two of “More About Alcoholism.” This section pulls no punches — it lays out what makes us different from the “average drinker,” and why self-knowledge, willpower, and good intentions just aren’t enough to stay sober. We break down the powerful stories in this chapter that show just how cunning, baffling, and powerful alcoholism really is — especially when we start thinking we have it all under control. We also talk about the emotional and mental obsession that keeps alcoholics trapped in the cycle, even when they know the consequences. Whether you’re working the steps, revisiting the Big Book, or supporting someone in recovery, this episode is packed with truth, perspective, and reminders of why surrender is the beginning — not the end. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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531: Sick of Being Controlled by Their Addiction? How to measure your own success...
06/01/2025
531: Sick of Being Controlled by Their Addiction? How to measure your own success...
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In today’s episode, we open by talking about the latest news surrounding Britney Spears — not to add to the media frenzy, but to reflect on the heartbreaking reality that unfolds when someone you love is in emotional or mental crisis. Her public struggles mirror what so many families quietly go through when a loved one is battling addiction or mental health issues behind closed doors. That sparks a deeper question we explore in this episode: How do family members measure progress in their own lives, even when their addicted loved one is still in chaos? We shift the focus away from trying to “fix” the addict, and instead talk directly to the family member who’s exhausted, confused, and wondering if anything they’re doing is actually helping. We offer real tools — boundary-setting, emotional detachment, accountability, and mindset shifts — to help you start regaining your peace, your power, and your sanity. Whether your loved one is still using, in treatment, or you’re just trying to hold it together — this episode will give you a new lens and a plan you can start using today. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36785530
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530: She Didn’t Think AA Was for Her… Until It Saved Her Life
05/30/2025
530: She Didn’t Think AA Was for Her… Until It Saved Her Life
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we sit down with Kat, who opens up about what it finally took for her to get sober after years of fighting recovery. She shares how she never saw herself as someone who would walk into an AA meeting — and definitely didn’t think it would work. But when nothing else worked, Kat made the decision to surrender. That decision changed everything. Kat talks in detail about how Alcoholics Anonymous helped her rebuild her life from the inside out. Today, she's not just sober — she's thriving, and she's passionate about giving back and helping others find the same freedom she did. If you’re on the fence about recovery — or love someone who is — this one’s for you. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36745055
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529: Big Book Study: More About Alcoholism: Part 1
05/28/2025
529: Big Book Study: More About Alcoholism: Part 1
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we dive into Part One of “More About Alcoholism” from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. This chapter hits hard — it forces us to confront the delusion that so many of us hold onto: that somehow, someday, we’ll be able to control and enjoy our drinking. We break down the stories and examples laid out in this section, and we talk honestly about how dangerous that kind of thinking can be. If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe this time it’ll be different…” — this one’s for you. Whether you’re in recovery, just starting your journey, or supporting someone who’s struggling, this chapter brings powerful clarity. Part two is coming soon — but for now, we dig into what makes this section so real, so relatable, and so necessary. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36732715
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528: Why do YOUNG people relapse, after years of sobriety?
05/25/2025
528: Why do YOUNG people relapse, after years of sobriety?
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, Tom and Steve react to Chrissy Teigen’s recent announcement that she started drinking again after a period of sobriety. This sparks a bigger conversation: why do people relapse — even when life looks “good” on the outside? We break down some of the most common reasons people pick up again, including emotional triggers, social pressure, unresolved trauma, and lack of support. Whether you’re in recovery or supporting someone who is, this episode is a real look at what can lead someone back to the bottle — and how to prevent it. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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527: My Sponsor Had a Sponsor: WHO CARES!
05/23/2025
527: My Sponsor Had a Sponsor: WHO CARES!
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we dive into the idea of "sponsor families" — you’ve probably heard someone say, “My sponsor’s sponsor was sponsored by so-and-so,” almost like a sobriety family tree. But is that even a real thing? Or is it something we made up to feel more important in the rooms? We talk about where the concept might have come from, why some people cling to the lineage of their sponsorship like a badge of honor, and whether this creates more division than unity. At the end of the day, we all date back to Bill Wilson — so is the whole sponsor-family vibe helpful or just ego in disguise? Tune in for a thought-provoking, honest conversation with a little humor mixed in. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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526: There is a Solution: Part 2
05/21/2025
526: There is a Solution: Part 2
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we continue breaking down one of the most impactful chapters in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous — There Is a Solution. This time, we dive into the second half of the chapter, where the Big Book gets into what the real solution actually is. We talk about the idea of spiritual experience, the power of the fellowship, and the critical role that working with others plays in long-term recovery. This isn’t about quick fixes — it’s about a complete shift in how we live and connect with the world around us. Whether you’re brand new to recovery or years in, the second half of this chapter offers depth, direction, and clarity that can re-center your entire program. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36532890
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525: Why Willpower Isn’t Enough to Get Sober...
05/18/2025
525: Why Willpower Isn’t Enough to Get Sober...
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Labor — a medical doctor who also happens to be in long-term recovery from drug addiction. Her story is powerful: from the outside, she had it all together — a successful career in medicine — but behind the scenes, addiction was slowly taking over her life. Today, she not only shares her personal experience getting sober but also helps us understand why addiction is so misunderstood — especially by those who have never experienced it. Dr. Labor breaks down the brain chemistry behind addiction in a way that’s easy to follow and incredibly eye-opening. We talk about how the reward system gets hijacked, what happens neurologically when someone tries to quit, and why the common advice to “just stop” doesn’t work for alcoholics and addicts. She offers both personal insight and professional knowledge, helping bridge the gap between science and lived experience. This episode is for anyone trying to make sense of addiction — whether it’s your own, a loved one’s, or someone you’re trying to help. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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524: He Relapsed After 1 Year in Treatment: Brian's Story
05/16/2025
524: He Relapsed After 1 Year in Treatment: Brian's Story
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we sit down with Brian, who shares his powerful journey through nearly four years of sobriety. Brian opens up about the brutal depths his addiction took him, and what it finally took for him to get clean. But his story takes a turn — even after spending a full year in treatment, he relapsed almost immediately upon leaving. Why? That’s what we dig into. Brian reflects on his lack of willingness during that time and the truth he wasn’t ready to face. Joining us is Nicole, who was Brian’s therapist during his original treatment stay back in 2017. She offers insight into what might have been missing, the patterns she saw, and why sometimes relapse is part of the journey — not the end of it. This is a real, honest look at what recovery really takes, and why simply being in treatment isn’t enough if you’re not willing to do the inner work. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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523: Big Book Study: There Is a Solution PART 1
05/14/2025
523: Big Book Study: There Is a Solution PART 1
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, Eric picks up where we left off with the second half of Bill’s Story from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. This part dives deeper into Bill’s spiritual awakening, the critical moments that led to lasting sobriety, and how his experience laid the foundation for what would become the AA program. Eric walks us through the powerful shift that took place once Bill fully surrendered—highlighting the principles, the pain, and ultimately the peace that came from choosing recovery. Whether you’re just getting started or have been sober for years, this episode brings fresh perspective and clarity to one of the most transformational stories in recovery. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36473335
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522: Sobriety Slogans: What Does That Even Mean?
05/11/2025
522: Sobriety Slogans: What Does That Even Mean?
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we dive into all those one-liners and slogans you hear tossed around in and outside of 12-step rooms — from “One Day at a Time” to “Let Go and Let God” to “Fake It Till You Make It.” Some of them carry real depth and meaning… others? Not so much. We talk about which ones have actually helped us in our sobriety, which ones we think are overused or misunderstood, and how sometimes people repeat them without really knowing what they mean. It’s a lighthearted convo about the clichés, the classics, and the ones that make us roll our eyes. Whether you love them or love to hate them, this episode is for you. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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521: Addicted Communities: What’s REALLY Happening
05/09/2025
521: Addicted Communities: What’s REALLY Happening
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, we’re joined by Brave—someone who not only got clean and sober but has dedicated his life to helping others do the same. Brave walks us through his personal recovery journey, what it took to finally surrender, and how he rebuilt his life one day at a time. But his story doesn’t stop with his own sobriety. Brave is now deeply involved in the substance abuse field, working hands-on with those still struggling. He shares the realities he sees in communities hit hardest by addiction and talks candidly about the gaps in support, the barriers people face, and what truly makes a difference. This is a raw, honest, and inspiring conversation that sheds light on both the personal and systemic sides of addiction—and what it takes to create real change. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36445615
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520: Big Book Study: Bill's Story: The Moment Bill W. Got Sober (Part 2)
05/07/2025
520: Big Book Study: Bill's Story: The Moment Bill W. Got Sober (Part 2)
Family Reconnect Waitlist: In this episode, Eric picks up where we left off with the second half of Bill’s Story from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. This part dives deeper into Bill’s spiritual awakening, the critical moments that led to lasting sobriety, and how his experience laid the foundation for what would become the AA program. Eric walks us through the powerful shift that took place once Bill fully surrendered—highlighting the principles, the pain, and ultimately the peace that came from choosing recovery. Whether you’re just getting started or have been sober for years, this episode brings fresh perspective and clarity to one of the most transformational stories in recovery. Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36445580
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519: Court-Ordered Sobriety: Real Recovery or Just Compliance?
05/04/2025
519: Court-Ordered Sobriety: Real Recovery or Just Compliance?
Family Reconnect Waitlist: Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Craig, a successful attorney who opens up about his personal battle with addiction and how he found lasting sobriety. Craig shares the highs and lows of his journey—from struggling in silence while practicing law to finally hitting rock bottom and seeking help. But his story doesn’t stop there. Today, Craig uses his recovery and legal background to help families take action when a loved one is caught in the grips of addiction. He specializes in using the Marchman Act and other legal tools to guide families through the complex process of getting someone into treatment—even when they’re resistant or in denial. Craig breaks down how the legal system can be used as a pathway to healing, not punishment. If you're a parent, sibling, or loved one feeling stuck and unsure of what to do next, this episode offers hope, guidance, and practical next steps. 🖥️ Learn more about Craig’s work at Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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518: Sobriety Doesn’t Fix Everything: But it sure helps!
05/02/2025
518: Sobriety Doesn’t Fix Everything: But it sure helps!
Family Reconnect Waitlist: Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: In today’s episode, we sit down with Kaitlyn, better known on Instagram as @soberasamotherfocused. Kaitlyn opens up about what her life has looked like over the last 2.5 years of sobriety — the wins, the struggles, and everything in between. She shares how working a 12-step program completely changed her life, but also reminds us that sobriety isn’t a magic shield from life’s challenges. Hard stuff still happens — grief, stress, loss, everyday chaos — but now she faces it with a completely different mindset and a strong recovery foundation. We talk about the real work it takes to stay sober when life gets messy, how motherhood plays into her journey, and why it’s so important to stay plugged into a recovery community. This is a raw and honest conversation about what real sobriety looks like once the pink cloud fades. If you’re early in recovery or just need a reminder that tough days don’t mean you’re doing it wrong, this one’s for you. Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36340665
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517: Big Book Study: Bill's Story
04/30/2025
517: Big Book Study: Bill's Story
Family Reconnect Waitlist: Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: In this episode, Erik takes us deep into Bill's Story from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. From the man himself, Bill is one of the founders of alcoholics anonymous. 👉 Whether you’re new to AA or have been around for years, this is a fresh look at a section that often gets overlooked. 🔔 Make sure to subscribe — we’re taking you through the Big Book, one powerful chapter at a time. Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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516: Why Anxiety Is Keeping You Addicted
04/27/2025
516: Why Anxiety Is Keeping You Addicted
Family Reconnect Waitlist: Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, we’re talking about something that a lot of people overlook when it comes to addiction: anxiety. Anxiety isn’t just a side effect—it can actually be the root cause of why many people start using in the first place. Whether it’s panic attacks, social anxiety, constant overthinking, or just that feeling like something bad is always about to happen… anxiety can push people straight into the arms of drugs, alcohol, or other unhealthy coping mechanisms. We discuss: 🔹 How anxiety shows up in early sobriety 🔹 Why untreated anxiety leads to relapse 🔹 What we’ve seen with clients struggling with both 🔹 Real tools and strategies to cope—without turning back to substances We also reference real-life stories (our own and others') that show how powerful it is to face anxiety head-on—because until we deal with the anxiety, sobriety is always going to feel like a battle. 👉 If you or someone you love deals with anxiety and addiction, this episode will give you clarity and direction. Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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515: Is a Nightly Drink Slowly Killing You?
04/25/2025
515: Is a Nightly Drink Slowly Killing You?
Family Reconnect Waitlist: Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, we dive into the age-old debate—is it actually healthy to have a couple drinks at night? We’re not talking to the alcoholics here—we’re talking to the everyday folks who wind down with a glass of wine or two after work. We break down what the research says about alcohol and your health, and we reference a recent article where Joe Rogan opens up about his decision to stop drinking altogether—not because of addiction, but because of the potential long-term health consequences. From sleep disruption and gut issues to increased cancer risk and mental fog, we cover it all. Is the occasional drink really harmless? Or are we just ignoring the warning signs because it’s normalized? Tune in to find out what we learned—and what you might want to consider before pouring your next glass. 👉 Whether you're sober curious or just health conscious, this one’s for you. Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
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