Best Monte Mader Podcasts (2025)

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20. Escaping a Cult w/ Dr. Steven Hassan 1:31:09

3d ago1:31:09

1:31:09

How can someone so intelligent end up with a cult like mindset? Someone who otherwise seems to have their life together? Seems to be so grounded? Anyone can fall into a cult, and even those who are deeply indoctrinated can get back out. Dr. Steven Hassan is a leading expert in cults, mind control, and undue influence, best known for transforming hi…

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Raised In The Fire: Breaking Cycles Building Truth (ft. David Hawkins) | Rooted Recovery Stories 204 1:48:06

4d ago1:48:06

1:48:06

What happens when the people who raised you were also the ones you had to survive? In this powerful Pride Month episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, media entrepreneur and LGBTQ+ advocate David Hawkins joins host Patrick Custer to share his journey of growing up queer and deeply misunderstood in rural South Carolina. From the emotional toll of being…

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19. Make America Healthy Again? With Dr. Jessica Knurick 1:20:24

10d ago1:20:24

1:20:24

As RFK Jr. removes all members of the CDC panel advising on vaccines we are faced with the question, is all this making America healthy again? Dr. Knurick has a PHD in Nutrition Science, is a registered dietitian and a mom of 2. And in this episode we break down the facts and fictions of the MAHA movement and what the real concerns for America's he…

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Coming Out Country: From Hiding To Healing (ft. Ty Herndon) | Rooted Recovery Stories #203 1:37:09

11d ago1:37:09

1:37:09

What if telling the truth about who you are meant risking everything you’ve worked for? In this deeply personal episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, country music icon, Ty Herndon, returns to reflect on the cost of hiding, the power of coming out, and the kind of healing that only comes when you stop performing and start living. Ty opens up about th…

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18. The Founding Myth with Andrew Seidel 1:03:37

17d ago1:03:37

1:03:37

Andrew Seidel is a constitutional lawyer, author of books "The Founding Myth" and "American Crusade", and works full time defending the 1st amendment and every Americans right to true religious liberty. On Flipping Tables we have a discussion about the Christian Nationalist myth that America is a "Christian" nation and the dangers it poses to true …

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The Cost of Coping (ft. Shane Diamond) | Rooted Recovery Stories #202 1:59:57

18d ago1:59:57

1:59:57

What do you do when everything you've built, your identity, your career, your marriage starts to unravel at once? Shane Diamond, a celebrated speaker, writer, and advocate, joins us to talk about surviving chaos, coming out as trans, and finding recovery in the most unexpected ways. From figure skating in hockey skates to waking up at 4 a.m. after …

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17. Queer & Christian with Brandan Robertson 1:11:30

24d ago1:11:30

1:11:30

Across platforms the most common question I get is "What does the Bible say about homosexuality and trans people?" Christian nationalists main talking point is a direct opposition to gay rights. But does the Bible really say that? Today we meet with pastor and theologian Brandan Robertson to talk about that, break down the "gotcha" passages of the …

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You Cannot Accept Yourself Until You Do This (ft. Blair Imani) | Rooted Recovery Stories #201 1:55:02

25d ago1:55:02

1:55:02

Healing doesn’t always begin with answers. Sometimes it starts with the questions no one ever thought to ask. Before she became the voice behind Smarter in Seconds, Blair Imani was navigating a deeply personal journey through mental health, identity, and belonging, quietly and in plain sight. In this powerful conversation, Blair shares the story mo…

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16. Children of God Sex Cult 1:05:51

1M ago1:05:51

1:05:51

In a world of cult like beliefs, propaganda, and manipulation its important to become experts on how these tactics work so that we can avoid them and so that we understand whats happening in the world around us. A little true crime break from the norm but an important discussion we have to continue to return to. HOW DO PEOPLE BELIEVE THIS? By using…

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Were You Taught Faith Or Programmed To Obey (ft. Monte Mader) | Rooted Recovery Stories #200 1:44:25

1M ago1:44:25

1:44:25

What if the faith you were raised in wasn’t chosen but programmed? Whether you’re questioning everything or doubling down on your beliefs, this landmark 200th episode is for you. Monte Mader’s journey from Christian nationalist-in-training to spiritual deconstructionist isn’t an attack it’s an invitation. An invitation to examine what you inherited…

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15. Why Christians Think They Should Rule 1:15:29

1M ago1:15:29

1:15:29

THEY'RE TAKING THE CHRIST OUT OF CHRISTMAS!!!! Why do christians continuously feel like they are being persecuted? Why do they believe that anything other than special treatment is "persecution"? Because fundamentalists don't believe in the separation of church and state, and many of them don't believe in religious liberty for anyone but them. They…

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From People Pleasing to Purpose (ft. Chrissy Metz) | Rooted Recovery Stories #199 1:38:56

1M ago1:38:56

1:38:56

From the outside, Chrissy Metz seemed to have it all starring in a hit show, inspiring millions, and radiating confidence but behind the spotlight was a woman navigating the painful realities of childhood trauma, body image struggles, people-pleasing, and the long road to emotional healing. In this heartfelt conversation, Chrissy opens up about the…

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14. Common Ground in the South w/ Bryan Andrews 1:13:08

2M ago1:13:08

1:13:08

When I was sent a video of this guest... I judged a book by its cover and assumed I was going to get really upset. BOY was I wrong. Bryan Andrews is a country singer from the south who blew my mind with his vibrant and powerful personality... and opinions. How are we so far apart? In the world of current politics it feels like we are light years ap…

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Triggers and Transformation (ft. Caleb Lovely) | Rooted Recovery Stories #198 1:39:19

2M ago1:39:19

1:39:19

From buried hurt to healing harmonies, Caleb Lovely reveals how trauma shaped his truth and gave rise to a song that speaks volumes. In this powerful episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, host Patrick Custer sits down with Middle Tennessee artist Caleb Lovely, a celebrated songwriter and the creator of the poignant new single, "Triggers." In honor of…

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13. Downfall of Dogma- Monte's Story 1:01:22

2M ago1:01:22

1:01:22

TW: Sexual assault, child abuse. I've gotten quite a few messages both here and on IG about my story and how I started to walk away and how I did eventually deconstruct. Did I always have questions? Was there a defining moment or series of moments? Little of both actually. This is a bit longer version (though not complete) of my story. I've never r…

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12. Partaking in Creation- The Trans Experience with Alyson Blake Dellinger 1:26:29

2M ago1:26:29

1:26:29

The trans population in the US has been a hotly debated topic the last few years. Fundamentalists believe that this group of people is a symptom of some kind of moral failing in the US, even though trans people have existed as long as we have had human history. The conservative movement acts as if about 1% of the population is somehow "the problem"…

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11. The Well Trained Wife with Tia Levings 1:03:17

2M ago1:03:17

1:03:17

Tia Levings is an author and advocate who writes and speaks about the realities of Christian fundamentalism, evangelical patriarchy, and religious trauma. Her memoir, A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy, was released on August 6, 2024. In her memoir, Levings recounts her journey into and out of the fundamentalist Quiverfull mov…

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From Rock Bottom To Rock Star (ft. Amy Darling) | Rooted Recovery Stories #197 1:19:49

2M ago1:19:49

1:19:49

From broken beginnings to bold breakthroughs, Amy Darling shares how she hit rock bottom and rose again, louder than ever. Join host Patrick Custer as he sits down with the incredible Amy Darling, a Nashville-based rock and roll front woman, DJ, and model known for her fierce authenticity and electrifying performances. In this conversation, Amy sha…

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10. Nixon, Watergate & America's Loss of Faith 1:09:12

2M ago1:09:12

1:09:12

Please rate and review the podcast and thanks! Patreon and email at bottom of show notes. We’re diving into one of the most infamous political scandals in American history—Watergate—and how it fundamentally altered the trust between the American people and their government. Let’s rewind to the early 1970s. President Richard Nixon, riding a wave of …

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Beyond the Headlines: My Truth, My Miracle, My Passion (ft. Firerose) | Rooted Recovery Stories #196 1:13:45

2M ago1:13:45

1:13:45

Music was her lifeline in a world of chaos. Join host Patrick Custer for an intimate conversation with Firerose Cyrus, an Australian-born singer-songwriter whose inspiring journey of resilience, recovery, and reinvention is as powerful as her music.In this heartfelt conversation, Firerose shares her experiences of chasing dreams across the globe wh…

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9. Conversation with Jane Elliot 1:42:00

3M ago1:42:00

1:42:00

Jane Elliot has been an activist since the murder of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Her landmark brown eye/ blue eye exercise was instrumental in my work deconstructing racism in my far right upbringing. And she has great ghost stories!!! www.janeelliot.com Find resources and long form content here: www.patreon.com/montemader…

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The Comeback Queen: Life Beyond The Spotlight (ft. Taylor Armstrong) | Rooted Recovery Stories #195 1:04:01

3M ago1:04:01

1:04:01

Taylor Armstrong's life hasn't always been all glitz and glam. Behind reality TV fame lies a story of struggle, survival, and strength. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Taylor Armstrong, a former star of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, as she opens up about her harrowing journey through an abusive marriage and her path to healing. T…

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8. Biblical Womanhood with Dr. Beth Allison Barr 1:23:09

3M ago1:23:09

1:23:09

A conversation with Dr. Beth Allison Barr. Discussing the service, preaching and teaching of ancient women and how their ministries were erased. How patriarchal standards, the reformation and purity culture changed womens history... and forgot them. Please consider supporting my work on patreon: www.patreon.com/montemader Follow Dr. Barr: Instagram…

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"Only God Knows" the Battle for my Soul (ft Struggle Jennings) Part 2 | Rooted Recovery Stories #194 1:28:31

3M ago1:28:31

1:28:31

Struggle Jennings’ journey has been one of trials, transformation, and triumph. In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, we continue our conversation with him as he shares the exciting news about his new single, “Only God Knows” featuring Jelly Roll.Struggle opens up about his battle with addiction, life after prison, and the role faith and comm…

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7. LGBTQ and the Church with Rev. Dr. Caleb J. Lines 1:17:38

3M ago1:17:38

1:17:38

Please rate and review the show! Thank you for your support! Please consider supporting my patreon www.patreon.com/montemader Who is the historical Jesus? What does the Bible actually say about gender and the LGBTQ community? How do conservative arguments fall apart facing these issues? Find Rev. Dr. Caleb J lines at: University Christian Church- S…

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"Only God Knows" the Battle for my Soul (ft Struggle Jennings) Part 1 | Rooted Recovery Stories #193 1:24:24

3M ago1:24:24

1:24:24

Struggle Jennings might have the most fitting name in music. His journey has been anything but easy, and his music reflects every battle he’s fought. In this episode, we explore how he blends country and hip-hop to tell his story. He opens up about losing his father at a young age, growing up in a tough environment, and the struggles that led him d…

1
Movement Mondays- 3/2-3/9 24:55

3M ago24:55

24:55

Bite sized focus episodes covering key news, giving action items and a weekly mantra! Please rate and share the podcast! Please support my work and my run for local office at www.patreon.com/montemader Action items: 1. Donate and Vote for Susan Crawford in Wisconsin: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/wisdems-scowis-2025?refcode=tiz 2. Fight Scott Y…

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6. American Jesus with April Ajoy 1:25:51

4M ago1:25:51

1:25:51

Please like and share! Thank you for your support. If you enjoy my content please consider supporting my patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/c/montemader HAPPY WOMENS HISTORY MONTH!!!! April Ajoy is a former Christian nationalist and author of the book Star Spangled Jesus: Leaving Christian Nationalism and Finding a True Faith. The book is a heartw…

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The Limitless Cost of Keeping the Secret (Ft. Josh Cloud) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 192 1:25:09

4M ago1:25:09

1:25:09

One secret kept him safe. One truth would leave him with nowhere to go. For Josh Cloud, music wasn’t just a dream—it was his identity. But after American Idol and the contract that followed stripped him of his ability to perform, he lost the only thing that made him feel alive. The silence left space for something else to creep in—fear, isolation, …

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5. Black History Hero 59:01

4M ago59:01

59:01

Have you heard of Civil War hero Robert Smalls? We will today! Today we'll cover how American exceptionalism contributes to white supremacy, its foundation in the colonies, and the amazing true story of enslaved man turned war hero Robert Smalls! Please consider signing up for my Patreon and support my work: https://www.patreon.com/montemader Use t…

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UNPACKED: Stacks of Shame for a Path of Freedom (Ft. Melissa Bull) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 191 1:37:19

4M ago1:37:19

1:37:19

What if the place that was supposed to feel like home felt more like a prison? In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, Patrick Custer sits down with media strategist, Melissa Bull, who opens up about growing up in a chaotic home shaped by her mother’s struggles with hoarding and mental health. She shares raw, unfiltered memories of navigating a…

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4. Constitutional…. right? 1:07:07

4M ago1:07:07

1:07:07

“That’s unconstitutional!” Or is it? As many as 57% of Americans have never read the constitution. This episode is a deep dive on what the constitution: when and how it came about, actually says and how it’s changed Special Black History month episodes next week! Regular episode on Wednesday Feb 26 and bonus episode for Patreon users on February 28…

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When A Grown Man Cries(feat. Alex Hall) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 190 1:26:15

4M ago1:26:15

1:26:15

Sobriety and music were what saved Alex Hall's life from the grips of addiction. But before he was able to put down the bottle he felt it was something he needed as the catalyst to achieve success as a singer/songwriter. Join host Patrick Custer as he sits down with country music artist Alex Hall to explore his incredible journey through the highs …

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3. "Don't Drink the Kool-Aid" 1:06:27

4M ago1:06:27

1:06:27

Why does someone continue to believe a Iie? Worse, why will they commit themselves to a lie with reckless abandon? Today we cover cults, how they form, how fundamentalist ideology lends itself to cults and an example of on of the most famous cults in the 20th century. Send topic suggestions, stories, your wins to: [email protected] Please…

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From Chaos to Clarity (feat. Madeline Finn) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 189 1:29:58

4M ago1:29:58

1:29:58

Music became Madeline Finn’s path to healing, but it wasn’t always that way. Before becoming a talented songwriter, singer, bassist, and producer, Madeline struggled with addiction, mental health challenges, and the journey of self-discovery. In this episode, she discusses her upcoming album Parts Work, which tackles themes of healing, addiction, a…

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2. How Do I Talk to My Conservative Family? Part 1 50:22

5M ago50:22

50:22

This topic was voted on by pait Patreon users who get episode voting power and bonus episodes. Please consider supporting for $1 per week. patreon.com/MonteMader Today we approach the question of "How do I talk to my Maga family"? I'm going to break this down in a series to get to the depth of these issues. I discuss biblical arguments, historical …

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What Actually Saved Me (feat. Fimone) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 188 51:09

5M ago51:09

51:09

Songwriting saved Fimone’s life, but before music became the outlet for her that it is today, she struggled with addiction, trauma, and the overwhelming journey of self-acceptance. In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, Fimone opens up about her path from growing up in rural Minnesota to navigating the complexities of identity, addiction, and …

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1. Intro & What do we do now? 31:54

5M ago31:54

31:54

Episode 1: Introduction to Monte Mader and steps we can take now Introduction of more of my background with fundamentalism, theology and conservative politics Sign up for my email list and patreon on the links below. Paid Patreon members get bonus episodes and the opportunity to vote on topics.linktr.ee/MonteMaderwww.patreon.com/MonteMader…

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From Heartbreak To Healing (feat. Mari Brown) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 187 1:17:48

5M ago1:17:48

1:17:48

Divorce and abandonment can leave us feeling lost and uncertain, but they also hold the potential for profound transformation. In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, Mari Brown sits with host Patrick Custer as they dive deep into the themes of beauty, resilience, and transformation. Join them for a heartfelt conversation filled with laughter, …

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Crying Into My Crunchwrap (feat. Jason Rhee) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 186 1:17:02

5M ago1:17:02

1:17:02

This week on Rooted Recovery Stories, the one and only Jason Rhee, wedding planner, recovering comedian, and all-around hilarious human, joins host Patrick Custer for a conversation that’s equal parts heartfelt and laugh-out-loud funny.Jason takes us on a wild ride through his journey to sobriety and self-discovery, sharing the highs, the lows, and…

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Laughing Through The Pain (feat. Evan Williams) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 185 1:33:18

5M ago1:33:18

1:33:18

On this week's episode, comedian Evan Williams sits down with host Patrick Custer to share his journey through addiction, the impact of his mother's mental health struggles, and how humor became a coping mechanism during challenging times. Evan opens up about his childhood experiences, including the emotional weight of his mother's battles with men…

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Faith Without Freedom (feat. Bethany Joy Lenz) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 184 1:05:50

5M ago1:05:50

1:05:50

Bethany Joy Lenz opens up with host, Patrick Custer, in this powerful interview where they discuss untapped, dynamic perspectives into her life’s story. Bethany reflects on growing up in a conservative Christian household and discovering her passion for acting at a young age. She also shares her experience navigating the entertainment industry whil…

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The Fight Within (feat. Rachel Platten) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 183 49:12

6M ago49:12

49:12

Patrick Custer sits down with the incredibly talented singer/songwriter, Rachel Platten, for a candid and vulnerable conversation about Rachel's personal journey through postpartum depression, the challenges of motherhood, and the healing power of music and faith. Rachel opens up about the tough moments of feeling lost and overwhelmed, sharing the …

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"Navigating Holiday Stress" (feat. Eloise Erin Dugan) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 182 1:53:41

6M ago1:53:41

1:53:41

Welcome to this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories! Join co-hosts Patrick Custer and Erin Dugan as they dive into the complexities of mental health during the holiday season. In this candid conversation, they explore the themes of stress, emotional regulation, and the impact of family dynamics on our well-being.Whether you're dealing with family ex…

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"Sad Bird Still Sings" (feat. Eloise Alterman) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 181 1:13:37

6M ago1:13:37

1:13:37

In this heartfelt episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, host Patrick Custer sits down with the incredibly talented singer/ songwriter Eloise Alterman. They dive deep into Eloise's journey through vulnerability, self-acceptance, and the power of music as a healing tool.Eloise shares her personal experiences with body image, emotional struggles, and th…

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"Finding My Voice" (feat. Hannah Sward) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 180 59:55

6M ago59:55

59:55

In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, Patrick sat down with Hannah Sward, an inspiring author and poet with a remarkable story to share. During their conversation, Hannah reflects on her unconventional upbringing in Canada, shaped by her father’s life as a poet and the absence of her mother. She shares the struggles of feeling disconnected, b…

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"Grief Doesn't Fit in a Box" (feat. Raven Dawson) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 179 1:28:04

7M ago1:28:04

1:28:04

In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, I had the opportunity to sit down with Raven Dawson, a gifted media personality and host of Rewind the Podcast. Raven shared her personal journey of growing up in a close-knit, seemingly perfect family in Hoover, Alabama, and how her older brother’s battle with addiction transformed their lives forever. R…

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I Didn't Want To Feel Anymore (feat. Jordy Cray) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 178 1:15:27

7M ago1:15:27

1:15:27

In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, I had the chance to chat with Jordy Cray, a social media influencer who’s known for his thoughtful takes on pop culture. Jordy shared his unique background, growing up in a privileged environment after his grandparents won the lottery, but also navigating the complexities of having parents in active addic…

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Take My Happiness And Give It To Him (feat. Dani Rose) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 177 1:00:23

7M ago1:00:23

1:00:23

This week on Rooted Recovery Stories, Patrick sits down with country artist Dani Rose, who opens up about the difficult journey of dealing with a loved one affected by alcoholism. Dani shares the emotional challenges she faced in recognizing the signs of addiction and the turmoil that came with trying to help, only to realize that some situations c…

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Choose Yourself (feat. Gregory Zarian) | Rooted Recovery Stories Ep. 176 38:14

7M ago38:14

38:14

Welcome to this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories! Join host Patrick Custer as he sits down with actor and advocate Gregory Zarian. Gregory shares his deeply personal journey, exploring themes of family, trauma, and the path to recovery.From his family's harrowing experiences during the Holocaust and the Armenian Genocide to his own struggles with…

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