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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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36785565
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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36701070
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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36624870
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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36532175
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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36490525
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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36472960
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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36409350
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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36346485
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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36315660
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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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36293480
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514: THIS Is Why Alcoholics Can’t Stop!
04/23/2025
514: THIS Is Why Alcoholics Can’t Stop!
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 The Doctor’s Opinion from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. If you’ve ever wondered why alcoholics can’t just stop or what’s really going on beneath the surface of addiction, this chapter lays the foundation. We break down the concept of the allergy of the body and obsession of the mind, and why understanding this is absolutely critical for recovery. 👉 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/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36265610
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513: The Family Reconnect Program Launches June 3rd!
04/20/2025
513: The Family Reconnect Program Launches June 3rd!
Family Reconnect Waitlist: Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides In this video, we break down everything you need to know about our brand new Family Reconnect Program, officially launching on June 3rd. This program is designed specifically for families who have a loved one struggling with addiction — whether they’re in treatment, thinking about getting help, or still in active use. We discuss how the program works, what’s included, and why we created it in the first place. We cover: ✅ Weekly coaching sessions ✅ Step-by-step education on addiction ✅ Tools for setting boundaries ✅ Support for navigating tough conversations ✅ And how families can finally find healing too — not just the addict. If you’ve ever felt helpless, frustrated, or unsure of what to do… this program was made for you. Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/
/episode/index/show/realrecoverytalk/id/36189540
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512: How she turned her Grief Into Purpose: Prema’s Story After Losing Her Son
04/18/2025
512: How she turned her Grief Into Purpose: Prema’s Story After Losing Her Son
Prema's Retreats: 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 sit down with Prema — a mother who shares the heartbreaking story of losing her 20-year-old son to fentanyl poisoning. Prema opens up about the unimaginable pain of that loss and what it’s been like navigating life in the aftermath. She talks about the deep grief, the healing process, and how this tragedy has transformed her from the inside out. Prema also shares how she’s now using her experience to serve others by hosting healing retreats at her home in Sweden — creating a space for people to come together, reflect, and find peace. This episode is a raw, emotional, and inspiring look at how one mother found a way to honor her son’s life by helping others find hope through their own pain. Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG:
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511: Mark Took a Chance… and It Changed His Life
04/16/2025
511: Mark Took a Chance… and It Changed His Life
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, we sit down with Mark — the very first recipient of our scholarship through our partnership with the Mindpump Podcast. Mark shares what life has looked like over the last 7 ½ months as he’s fully leaned into his recovery journey. We talk about what ultimately led him to taking that leap of faith, what he’s learned about himself throughout the process, and how doing the work has completely transformed his life. Mark also shares his next big move — making Florida his permanent home — and what his future looks like now that sobriety has given him a second chance at life. This is a powerful story of willingness, growth, and what happens when you finally surrender and do the work. Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG:
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510: Actual Experts DEBUNK Addiction Treatment Myths
04/13/2025
510: Actual Experts DEBUNK Addiction Treatment Myths
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 getting honest about something we see all the time—families losing faith in the treatment process. Whether it’s due to relapse, lack of communication, or just feeling like nothing’s working, it’s incredibly common for loved ones to feel burned out, discouraged, and ready to give up. We break down the five biggest reasons this happens, including: Why relapse can feel like treatment failed How unrealistic expectations create disappointment The disconnect families feel when they’re left out of the process The weight of broken promises and emotional exhaustion And the powerful truth that healing has to happen on both sides We also talk about how families can begin to rebuild trust in the process, and why support, education, and community are crucial not just for the person in treatment—but for the family as well. If you’re tired, confused, or losing hope, this episode will remind you that recovery is still possible—and you don’t have to walk it alone. Tom IG: Ben IG: RRT IG:
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509: Wounded to Warrior: Tiffany Owen’s Journey from Rock Bottom to Purpose
04/11/2025
509: Wounded to Warrior: Tiffany Owen’s Journey from Rock Bottom to Purpose
Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: In this deeply moving episode of Real Recovery Talk, we sit down with Tiffany Owen, author of Wounded to Warrior, to hear her raw and powerful story of transformation. Tiffany opens up about her darkest moments—multiple suicide attempts, the hopelessness she felt in active addiction, and what it finally took for her to surrender and get sober. Her story is one of pain, but also of resilience, redemption, and radical change. Today, Tiffany is living a life with purpose. She has created a powerful program that helps others become the best version of themselves, using the same tools and mindset shifts that helped her rebuild from the ground up. She’s a coach, a speaker, and an example of what’s possible when we stop running and start healing. This is an episode for anyone who’s ever felt broken beyond repair—or has a loved one who has. Tiffany’s message is clear: you are not your past, and there is always hope. 📖 Grab her book 🌐 Learn more about her work at:
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508: Childhood Trauma led to Fausto’s Mission to Give Therapy Away for Free
04/09/2025
508: Childhood Trauma led to Fausto’s Mission to Give Therapy Away for Free
Treatment Prep Guide: SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: SWUB EPISODE: In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, we sit down with Fausto—better known online as Not Your Average Counselor. Fausto shares his powerful sobriety journey and how he turned some of life’s biggest challenges into fuel for something much greater. After getting sober, Fausto made it his life mission to help others heal—offering therapy and mental health support for free. Yep, free. His passion for service and his ability to connect with people on a real, raw level has helped him impact thousands of lives across California and beyond. We talk about how Fausto found purpose through pain, why accessibility in mental health care matters, and how he’s using his platform to change the game. Whether you’re early in recovery, thinking about getting clean, or just looking for some serious inspiration—this episode is for you. 📺 You can find Fausto on YouTube at Not Your Average Counselor.
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507: How Sponsors can SCREW THINGS UP! The Spirit of the 4th Step
04/06/2025
507: How Sponsors can SCREW THINGS UP! The Spirit of the 4th Step
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 deep into the Fourth Step of Alcoholics Anonymous—the personal moral inventory—and why the spirit behind this step is just as important as the words on the page. Too often, this crucial step gets misunderstood or misused. We talk about how some sponsors—without meaning to—slip into the role of therapist, crossing lines that can actually hurt more than help. We unpack why this step is not about blame or shame, but rather about truth, clarity, and freedom. We also discuss the importance of working the 12 steps with someone who truly understands the spiritual foundation of the program, not just someone going through the motions. Over the last 50+ years, the 12-step world has changed—and in some ways, the original message has gotten diluted. We get honest about what’s working, what isn’t, and how to get back to the basics that actually lead to long-term sobriety. This episode is sponsored by SoberLink, an app/breathalyzer device designed to help you stay connected and accountable throughout your recovery journey. If you’re in recovery, working with a sponsor, or even sponsoring someone yourself—this episode will challenge you to go deeper and get real about what this step is all about.
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506: SOBRIETY is NOT guaranteed...DO NOT take it for granted.
04/04/2025
506: SOBRIETY is NOT guaranteed...DO NOT take it for granted.
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, Tom and Eric sit down to explore a topic that often gets overlooked in early sobriety: gratitude—not just for the good days, but for the tough ones too. We kick off the conversation with a powerful question from someone inside our Sobriety Network Facebook group: “How do I stay grateful when everything feels hard?” That sparks a raw, honest discussion about how the path of sobriety isn't always sunshine and serenity—but how the struggles, setbacks, and emotional lows are often the moments that shape us the most. We talk about how easy it is to drift into frustration or comparison as time goes on in recovery, and how important it is to shift our mindset back to gratitude—gratitude for growth, for clarity, for peace of mind, and even for the hardships that teach us who we really are. Eric and Tom share personal stories of times when sobriety felt like a grind, and how pushing through those seasons actually deepened their appreciation for the life they’ve built in recovery. We also reflect on how gratitude isn't something that just shows up—it’s something we cultivate through practice, service, and perspective. If you’re in a season where sobriety feels heavy, or you’re just looking for some encouragement to help you keep showing up, this one’s for you.
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505: Adam Nimoy on Sobriety, Star Trek, and Reconnecting with His Father
04/02/2025
505: Adam Nimoy on Sobriety, Star Trek, and Reconnecting with His Father
SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: Chat with us! Adams book: In this episode, we sit down with Adam Nimoy — filmmaker, author, and son of the legendary Leonard Nimoy, best known as Spock from Star Trek. Adam opens up about what it was like growing up in the shadow of fame, the challenges within his relationship with his father, and how addiction shaped so much of that dynamic. But this isn’t just a story about struggle — it’s about healing. Adam shares how working a 12-step program not only changed his life, but ultimately helped repair the relationship with his dad after years of distance and dysfunction. With over 21 years sober, Adam talks about what’s kept him grounded, what recovery looks like today, and why the spiritual principles of the program still guide him every day. This conversation is honest, inspiring, and a reminder that it’s never too late to change — and never too late to reconnect.
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504: Brad Compton: 11 Years Sober, Finding Faith, and Giving Back
03/30/2025
504: Brad Compton: 11 Years Sober, Finding Faith, and Giving Back
SoberLink: Join our Big Book Study! Join our FREE FB Support group!: Download our free guides!: FAMILY FIRST: Chat with us! In this episode, we’re hanging out with Brad Compton, who shares his story of addiction, how far it took him down, and what it took to finally turn things around. Brad gets real about the role a 12-step program played in his recovery and how leaning into his spirituality completely changed his life. Today, he’s celebrating 11 years clean and sober, and he’s using his experience to help others. Brad now works with Family First, an amazing adolescent program that supports teens (ages 12–17) who are struggling with addiction. His passion for helping young people and their families is powerful — and it all stems from the life he’s lived and the freedom he’s found in recovery. If you’re looking for a story full of honesty, hope, and what’s possible when you surrender and do the work, this one’s for you.
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