Supporting a Loved One in Addiction: Boundaries and Recovery with Kathy Wrenn

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

Links to Tools Mentioned in this Episode

35:00

The healing power of fitness goes far beyond physical benefits—for today’s guest, it’s a form of self-expression and a celebration of what the body can do. In this episode, host Nora McInerny sits down with fitness personality Ivylis Rivera, who shares her deeply personal journey of navigating life with Chronic Migraine while holding onto her passion for movement. Ivylis opens up about the struggle of staying active while facing the fear of triggering a headache or migraine attack and the resilience it takes to keep pushing forward—a resilience that carried her through the challenging journey of finding a Chronic Migraine treatment plan that worked for her. Join Nora and Ivylis as they explore the concept of “soft living,” a philosophy Ivylis embraces—staying active, listening to your body, and building trust in oneself. Click here for Product Information, including Boxed Warning and Medication Guide, or visit https://abbv.ie/prescribing_info See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

about a year ago 48:12

MP3•Episode home

In this episode, host KL Wells speaks with Kathy Wrenn, a former health education teacher and current coach with BALM Family Recovery.

With over 20 years of experience in education, Kathy shares her personal journey of navigating her son Tucker's substance use disorder. As the executive director of ILUME Family Recovery, she discusses the importance of family education, understanding risk factors, and finding peace while supporting loved ones through addiction. Kathy also previews her upcoming documentary focused on family recovery, which aims to provide hope and practical resources for families affected by addiction.

Key Discussion Points

The importance of understanding risk factors in substance use disorder
The role of protective factors in prevention and recovery
The transition from crisis to peace in family recovery - The power of mindfulness and self-care practices
The significance of family education in addiction recovery
The development of healthy boundaries and communication
The upcoming documentary on family recovery

Some Questions I Ask

What was your initial reaction when you began to realize your son was struggling with addiction?
How did you help yourself sleep at night during difficult times?
What was your biggest challenge as a mom going through this journey?
How did you navigate the relationship with your husband during this process?
What inspired the documentary project?

In This Episode, You Will Learn

How to identify and understand substance use disorder risk factors
The importance of practicing self-care and mindfulness techniques
Ways to set healthy boundaries while maintaining loving relationships
The value of family education in supporting recovery
How to transition from enabling to supporting recovery
The power of changing family dynamics in promoting healing
The importance of finding the right support resources

Resources

Book: Five Acts of Courage
ILUME Family Recovery website: www.ilumefamilyrecovery.com
BALM Family Recovery Program: https://balmfamilyrecovery.com/
BALM 'On Demand Program' for Leaders
Upcoming Documentary on Family Recovery (available late spring/early summer)

Risk Factors List for Substance Use Disorder
Cycle of Change Diagram
DSM-5 Substance Use Disorder Criteria

75 episodes

#Fitness #Society #Relationship #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #Mental Health #Tucker Stine #KL

Supporting a Loved One in Addiction: Boundaries and Recovery with Kathy Wrenn

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

In this episode, host KL Wells speaks with Kathy Wrenn, a former health education teacher and current coach with BALM Family Recovery.

Key Discussion Points

The importance of understanding risk factors in substance use disorder
The role of protective factors in prevention and recovery
The transition from crisis to peace in family recovery - The power of mindfulness and self-care practices
The significance of family education in addiction recovery
The development of healthy boundaries and communication
The upcoming documentary on family recovery

Some Questions I Ask

What was your initial reaction when you began to realize your son was struggling with addiction?
How did you help yourself sleep at night during difficult times?
What was your biggest challenge as a mom going through this journey?
How did you navigate the relationship with your husband during this process?
What inspired the documentary project?

In This Episode, You Will Learn

How to identify and understand substance use disorder risk factors
The importance of practicing self-care and mindfulness techniques
Ways to set healthy boundaries while maintaining loving relationships
The value of family education in supporting recovery
How to transition from enabling to supporting recovery
The power of changing family dynamics in promoting healing
The importance of finding the right support resources

Resources

Book: Five Acts of Courage
ILUME Family Recovery website: www.ilumefamilyrecovery.com
BALM Family Recovery Program: https://balmfamilyrecovery.com/
BALM 'On Demand Program' for Leaders
Upcoming Documentary on Family Recovery (available late spring/early summer)

Links to Tools Mentioned in this Episode

Risk Factors List for Substance Use Disorder
Cycle of Change Diagram
DSM-5 Substance Use Disorder Criteria

75 episodes

#Fitness #Society #Relationship #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #Mental Health #Tucker Stine #KL

All episodes

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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A New Approach to Addiction and Trauma with Dr. Fredric Schiffer 39:04

9 days ago39:04

39:04

In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells welcomes Dr. Fredric Schiffer, a Harvard-affiliated expert on trauma and addiction. Dr. Schiffer shares his fascinating work on dual brain psychology and its applications in treating various mental health issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. He discusses his journey into this field, insights from his research on split-brain patients and lateral visual fields, and how understanding the two sides of the brain can impact both individuals struggling with addiction and their loved ones. The conversation also touches on ongoing studies, including promising research on fentanyl addiction using near-infrared light therapy. Key Discussion Points: Dr. Schiffer's personal and professional origin story leading to his work in psychiatry, trauma, and addiction. The observation of seemingly two different personalities or states in patients. Insights from split-brain studies and how different brain hemispheres process information and emotions. The concept of dual brain psychology in ordinary people and how lateral visual fields can stimulate different hemispheres. How trauma, particularly childhood trauma, contributes to addiction and feelings of inadequacy. The traumatic experience of loving someone struggling with addiction. Applying dual brain psychotherapy to treat the "troubled side" and strengthen the "healthy side." The idea of speaking to and supporting the healthy mind in both the individual with addiction and the loved one. Demonstration of the lateral vision technique to observe different emotional responses. Discussion of ongoing research, including a study on fentanyl addiction using near-infrared light therapy. The potential of stimulating the healthy mind through techniques like lateral vision and light therapy. Trauma as anything that cuts at one's worthiness or ability to stand in their power. The importance of recognizing and nurturing the healthy side for overall well-being and navigating challenging situations. Some Questions I Ask: So if you would start with, you know your kind of origin story. As to how did you get into this work? So question one is obviously in in the space of you know. My belief is that there's nobody walking around that hasn't experienced some sort of trauma... how this might have an impact in how we move from our own trauma and suffering to thriving in the midst of loving someone who's still in addiction, mode. And so what you've discovered and learned relative to dual brain psychology and the work that you're doing? How can that inform and influence people like myself, who are loving someone, whether it's a sibling or a brother, or, you know, a sister or a spouse, or, in my case, most dramatically for me, was my son. And so can you stack the healthy side of your brain, so that I mean because I think for me personally, I live most of the time in the resilient side of who I am...? Does that make sense? Well, and I I so here's the caveat is I've done a tremendous amount of work through the years. So does that have any impact in, you know what we just did. Wow, okay, so when does this study wrap up. In This Episode, You Will Learn: How early trauma can contribute to addiction and a cycle of re-traumatization. The concept that addiction can be an attempt to both repeat and relieve trauma. That the brain may house two distinct "minds" or states, one more troubled and one healthier. How stimulating different visual fields can access these different brain states and associated feelings. That even in active addiction, a healthy side may exist and can be accessed and strengthened. The power of a loved one's steady presence and belief in the individual's true self to support their healthy mind. That the principles of dual brain psychology can be applied to help loved ones navigate their own trauma and move towards thriving. About promising new research using near-infrared light therapy to stimulate the healthy brain hemisphere in treating addiction. That feeling inadequate is a core component of many traumas, while feeling worthwhile is key to wellness. Practical techniques, like using lateral vision, to potentially access different emotional states and perspectives. Resources: Learn more about Dr. Fredric Schiffer's work and research papers at his website: dualbrainpsychology.com Find Dr. Schiffer's book: Good-bye Anxiety, Depression, Addiction & PTSD: The Life-Changing Science of Dual-Brain Psychology Closing Call to Action: Take care of yourself. Healing starts with you.…

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Understanding Addiction: Separating the Person from the Disease with Jim Horton 36:06

23 days ago36:06

36:06

In this powerful episode, host KL Wells sits down with Jim Horton, who shares his transformative experience in Utah and opens up about his deeply personal journey through grief and addiction. Jim discusses the critical role of support systems in overcoming addiction, the evolving societal perceptions of cancer versus substance use disorder, and the unique challenges faced in recovery. Together, they highlight the importance of community, self-care, and fostering open, honest conversations about addiction to break the cycle and promote healing. Key Discussion Points: Jim’s transformative experience in Utah and its impact on his recovery journey. Navigating grief and addiction: personal stories and lessons learned. The importance of self-care for families and loved ones of those struggling with addiction. Shifting societal perceptions: comparing cancer and substance use disorder. The realities of relapse and recovery as part of the addiction journey. Setting healthy boundaries and supporting loved ones without enabling. The vital role of community and open dialogue in healing from addiction. Some Questions I Ask: What was the turning point in your journey with addiction and grief? How did your experience in Utah shape your perspective on recovery? In what ways can families best support themselves while supporting a loved one in addiction? Why do you think society views cancer and substance use disorder so differently? How do you separate the person you love from the disease of addiction? What practical steps can families take to maintain their own well-being during a loved one’s relapse? In This Episode, You Will Learn: ✅ Why self-care is essential for anyone supporting a loved one through addiction. ✅ How to set and maintain healthy boundaries without losing compassion. ✅ The importance of recognizing relapse as a common part of recovery. ✅ Strategies for emotional regulation and finding joy, even in difficult times. ✅ How to distinguish between the person and the disease of addiction. ✅ The value of community resources and ongoing education in the recovery process. Resources & Links: 🌱 Voices InCourage Resource Page – Explore books, videos, and tools to support your journey. 📖 The 5 Acts of Courage by KL Wells – Discover transformative strategies for navigating addiction and recovery. 👪 12-Week Family Support Program – Access an on-demand, self-paced program designed to help families heal and grow. 🎙️ Learn More About Jim Horton – (Insert link to Jim Horton’s bio or website if available) 🤝 Join the Voices InCourage Community – Connect with others who understand and support your journey. Closing Call to Action: 👉 Take care of yourself. Healing starts with you. If this episode resonated, please subscribe, rate, and review our podcast—it helps us reach more people seeking support and hope. 💙…

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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From Addiction to Advocacy: Fighting Substance Use Disorder with Natasha Davis and Haley Sample 36:39

5 weeks ago36:39

36:39

In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells interviews Natasha Davis and Haley Sample, best friends of 25 years who have both personally navigated addiction and substance use disorder. Now working on the treatment side at Her Harbor in Fresno, they focus on specialized addiction treatment for women. Natasha and Haley share their personal journeys, insights on recovery, and compassionate advice for parents and loved ones of those struggling with addiction. Key Discussion Points: The personal recovery journeys of Natasha and Haley. The vital role of support and community in sustaining sobriety. Unique benefits and challenges within women's-only recovery programs. Understanding the science behind addiction and its impact on decision-making. Practical advice for parents supporting children facing substance use disorder. How education, love, and tolerance can combat the stigma surrounding addiction. Essential self-care practices for families affected by addiction. Realities of relapse and the importance of ongoing support and empathy. The impact of COVID-19 on recovery and the growth of virtual support meetings. Some Questions I Ask: Can you share the “CNN version” of your personal journeys with addiction? What role has AA played in understanding your disease? Did you have any pivotal moments around COVID that impacted your recovery? What inspired you to start Her Harbor Recovery , and what are your aspirations for it? What are the three most important things for parents to understand about addiction? Can you speak about your experiences with intervention? In This Episode, You Will Learn: ✅ How addiction impacts decision-making by reducing individuals to an "animal level." ✅ Why creating safe, gender-specific spaces is crucial for women in recovery. ✅ The importance of education in understanding addiction to better support loved ones. ✅ Why you can't cause or cure addiction in someone you love. ✅ The power of practicing love, tolerance, and self-care as family members. ✅ Why relapse can be part of the recovery journey, and how continued support makes a difference. ✅ Strategies for appreciating each day and staying present while supporting someone through addiction. Resources & Links: 🌊 Her Harbor Recovery Website: herharborrecovery.com Email: info@herharborrecovery.com…

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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Transforming Pain into Purpose: KL Wells on Her Journey with Son Sam's Addiction 32:52

7 weeks ago32:52

32:52

In this continuation of our conversation with KL Wells, host Steve Cary dives deeper into the challenges and triumphs of navigating life alongside a loved one battling addiction. Picking up from Part 1, "Thriving Amidst Chaos: KL Wells on Loving Someone with Addiction," this episode explores KL's personal journey as her son, Sam, faces the trials of addiction and recovery. KL shares her insights on maintaining resilience, the importance of community support, and the transformative power of intentional self-care. Her story is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the profound impact of choosing to thrive amidst adversity. Key Discussion Points: The reality of addiction recovery and the average number of rehab attempts before success. The emotional and mental strategies KL employs to maintain her well-being. The role of community and mastermind groups in providing support and strength. The importance of acknowledging and processing emotions rather than suppressing them. How KL's personal growth journey has been intertwined with her son's recovery. Some Questions We Ask: What role does community play in your journey of thriving amidst chaos? How do you manage intrusive thoughts and maintain a positive mindset? Can you share the impact of your self-care routine on your overall resilience? What advice would you give to others in similar situations seeking to transform their pain into purpose? In This Episode, You Will Learn: ✅ The significance of intentional self-care and emotional resilience in facing life's challenges. ✅ How to create and rely on a supportive community during difficult times. ✅ The power of vulnerability and honesty in personal growth and healing. ✅ Techniques for managing stress and maintaining mental clarity in the face of uncertainty. ✅ The importance of setting intentions and surrounding oneself with positive influences. Resources & Links: 🌱 KL Wells' Website – Voices InCourage – Explore resources and support for families dealing with addiction. 👪 Be A Loving Mirror Program – A program designed to support families navigating addiction. 📖 The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle – A book influencing KL's approach to presence and mindfulness. 📚 Loving What Is by Byron Katie – A resource for understanding and transforming thoughts. 🎧 Voices InCourage Podcast – Listen to more episodes and stories of thriving amidst chaos. Closing Call to Action: 👉 Join us as we continue our Mission of 1 Million People Thriving , offering hope and inspiration to those facing similar challenges. Subscribe, rate, and review to help us reach and support more people in our goal . 💙…

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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Boundaries and Love: Ian Cron on Parenting a Child in Recovery 40:10

9 weeks ago40:10

40:10

In this powerful episode, host KL Wells sits down with Ian Morgan Cron , bestselling author, Enneagram expert, and host of the Typology Podcast, to explore the transformative power of the Twelve Steps —not just for those struggling with addiction, but for anyone seeking personal growth, healing, and a deeper spiritual awakening. Ian shares his deeply personal journey as a recovering alcoholic and addict , the father of a son in recovery, and the husband of what he calls an "Al-Anon Ninja." He opens up about the challenges of parenting a child with substance use disorder , the importance of boundaries , and how addiction can serve as an invitation to profound spiritual transformation. Through humor, wisdom, and raw honesty, Ian discusses his latest book, The Fix , which reimagines the Twelve Steps as a universal path to healing —whether you're struggling with addiction, codependency, or simply looking for a new way to live with more freedom and joy . Key Discussion Points Ian’s personal experience with addiction and recovery, and how it shaped his family. The misconceptions about addiction and why it’s more than just a lack of willpower. How the Twelve Steps can be a tool for anyone, not just those with substance use disorder. The role of spirituality in healing and transformation. The power of community and connection in overcoming addiction. How parents and loved ones can set healthy boundaries while still offering love and support. Ian’s perspective on relapse and what it taught him about recovery. The importance of self-care for parents and loved ones of those struggling with addiction. Some Questions I Ask: What inspired you to write The Fix now? How do you define addiction, and why do you believe it’s part of the human condition? Do you see addiction as a doorway to spiritual awakening? How can parents and loved ones detach with love while still supporting their child? What was it like to set boundaries and ask your son to leave home? How did your own relapse shift your understanding of recovery? What role does joy and humor play in the healing process? How can someone without a substance use disorder benefit from the Twelve Steps? In This Episode, You Will Learn: ✅ Why addiction is often a spiritual workaround —and how to find a real solution. ✅ How to reframe addiction as an opportunity for growth and transformation. ✅ The power of surrender and why letting go can be the key to real change. ✅ How to cultivate a spiritual life that supports healing and resilience. ✅ Why community and connection are essential for recovery. ✅ How to set healthy boundaries without guilt or fear. ✅ The unexpected gifts that can come from walking through the pain of addiction. Resources & Links: 📖 Get Ian Morgan Cron’s latest book, The Fix – https://ianmorgancron.com/thefix 🎙️ Listen to Ian’s Podcast, Typology – https://www.typologypodcast.com 📚 Learn more about the Enneagram and Ian’s work – https://www.typologypodcast.com 🎙️ KL Wells’ TED Talk: Watch Here Closing Call to Action: 👉 If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more people who need support and encouragement on their journey. 💙…

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Thriving Amidst Chaos: KL Wells Discusses Loving Someone with Addiction 30:03

11 weeks ago30:03

30:03

In this podcast episode, producer and team member Steve Cary steps out from behind the scenes to host a heartfelt conversation with KL Wells , founder of Voices InCourage , about her experience as a mother navigating the complexities of loving someone struggling with addiction. KL candidly shares her deeply personal journey, highlighting her son Sam’s battle with substance use disorder, particularly the pivotal moment she discovered his fentanyl addiction . She describes the emotional toll, challenges, and ultimately how she managed not only to survive but truly thrive amidst the uncertainty and fear. This episode serves as a powerful testament to resilience , personal agency , and finding peace and joy—even amidst the chaos of addiction in the family. Key Discussion Points: ✅ KL’s journey from crisis to thriving while supporting her son through addiction. ✅ Her initial reaction upon discovering Sam’s fentanyl addiction and its emotional impact. ✅ The critical importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care. ✅ Introducing the transformative BALM (Be A Loving Mirror) program for family support. ✅ Practical techniques for interrupting fear-based thinking and reclaiming personal power. ✅ The significance of fostering a supportive community to enhance resilience. Some Questions I Ask: What was your initial reaction when you learned about Sam’s fentanyl addiction? How did you maintain your commitment to thriving despite ongoing uncertainty? Which resources have been most impactful on your healing journey? How do you overcome fear-based thinking to reclaim your power? What advice would you give families experiencing similar struggles? In This Episode, You Will Learn: Strategies to manage the emotional rollercoaster of loving someone with addiction. How embracing personal agency can shift your experience from crisis to thriving. Actionable steps to transition from crisis mode into a healthier, thriving mindset. Ways to establish healthy boundaries without feeling guilty. The importance of building a strong, supportive community . Access to valuable resources like Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine and the BALM program . Resources Mentioned: 🌎 Voices InCourage : voicesincourage.com 📘 BALM Program : Learn More Here 📖 Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine : Book & Program 🎙️ KL Wells’ TED Talk : Watch Here 🤝 Subscribe to the Voices InCourage Community : voicesincourage.com 👉 Listen now and take the first step toward reclaiming your peace and personal power.…

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Navigating the Storm: KL Wells on Setting Boundaries for Families Affected by Addiction 51:45

13 weeks ago51:45

51:45

In this special episode of the Voices InCourage podcast, the tables turn as host Beverly Buncher interviews KL Wells - leadership coach, emotional fitness trainer, TEDx speaker and the mother of a young man in recovery. Stepping into the guest seat, KL shares her deeply personal journey of resilience, courage, and the lessons learned while loving someone through addiction. This conversation dives into the heart of setting boundaries, finding personal power, and thriving amidst life’s toughest challenges. Together, Beverly and KL explore the importance of setting and maintaining boundaries. KL also discusses insights from her book, The Five Acts of Courage: From Crisis to Thriving , and introduces a roadmap that helps families move from crisis to thriving. Listeners will gain several tools for strengthening emotional resilience, including self-care strategies, the power of gratitude, and the importance of building a strong, shame-free support network. KL’s wisdom and lived experience offer hope and empowerment for families seeking to reclaim their peace while loving someone struggling with addiction. Key Takeaways The importance of setting firm boundaries and sticking to them How to shift from crisis to thriving using KL’s structured roadmap The role of self care, gratitude, and emotional awareness in maintaining resilience Why community support is essential for families navigating addiction Practical strategies for managing emotions and reclaiming personal power The Questions That Found Me... "Sometimes life just falls apart in order for it all to genuinely fall together." How was this true for you, and how can this realization help other families impacted by a loved one's addiction? Are you saying you realized the need for personal growth the whole time, or did that realization come to you at a specific point?" – A deep dive into KL's turning point during her journey . What does moving from crisis to struggling, struggling into surviving, and eventually thriving look like for someone in the thick of this journey? You emphasize the importance of feeling emotions fully. Can you talk about the connection between our emotions and how the brain processes them? Why is building a powerful community so essential for families in recovery, and how did your own communities support you through this journey? Links & Resources: 📖 The Five Acts of Courage From Crisis to Thriving by KL Wells – Order on Amazon 🌐 Visit Voices InCourage – www.voicesincourage.com 💡 Learn more about the Daily BALM and upcoming retreats – www.balmfamilyrecovery.com Join the Conversation What resonated most with you from this episode Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments or connect with us on social media…

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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Supporting a Loved One in Addiction: Boundaries and Recovery with Kathy Wrenn 48:12

15 weeks ago48:12

48:12

In this episode, host KL Wells speaks with Kathy Wrenn, a former health education teacher and current coach with BALM Family Recovery. With over 20 years of experience in education, Kathy shares her personal journey of navigating her son Tucker's substance use disorder. As the executive director of ILUME Family Recovery, she discusses the importance of family education, understanding risk factors, and finding peace while supporting loved ones through addiction. Kathy also previews her upcoming documentary focused on family recovery, which aims to provide hope and practical resources for families affected by addiction. Key Discussion Points The importance of understanding risk factors in substance use disorder The role of protective factors in prevention and recovery The transition from crisis to peace in family recovery - The power of mindfulness and self-care practices The significance of family education in addiction recovery The development of healthy boundaries and communication The upcoming documentary on family recovery Some Questions I Ask What was your initial reaction when you began to realize your son was struggling with addiction? How did you help yourself sleep at night during difficult times? What was your biggest challenge as a mom going through this journey? How did you navigate the relationship with your husband during this process? What inspired the documentary project? In This Episode, You Will Learn How to identify and understand substance use disorder risk factors The importance of practicing self-care and mindfulness techniques Ways to set healthy boundaries while maintaining loving relationships The value of family education in supporting recovery How to transition from enabling to supporting recovery The power of changing family dynamics in promoting healing The importance of finding the right support resources Resources Book: Five Acts of Courage ILUME Family Recovery website: www.ilumefamilyrecovery.com BALM Family Recovery Program: https://balmfamilyrecovery.com/ BALM 'On Demand Program' for Leaders Upcoming Documentary on Family Recovery (available late spring/early summer) Links to Tools Mentioned in this Episode Risk Factors List for Substance Use Disorder Cycle of Change Diagram DSM-5 Substance Use Disorder Criteria…

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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Breaking the Cycle: Healing Generational Trauma and Addiction with Melissa Engle 54:10

17 weeks ago54:10

54:10

In this episode, host KL Wells reflects on the new year and the challenges of multigenerational addiction and trauma. They introduce Melissa Engle, co-owner and executive vice president of Healing Springs Ranch, Texas, who has nearly 37 years of experience in addiction and mental health. Melissa discusses the importance of understanding trauma, epigenetics, and emotional suppression's impact on chronic addiction and mental health. Both speakers emphasize the need for a holistic approach to healing, recognizing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and fostering positive influences. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage in their own healing journeys. Some Questions I Ask: What is multi-generational trauma, and how does it shape addiction patterns? How does emotional suppression impact our mental and physical health? Can families really break free from deeply rooted cycles of dysfunction? What is neuroplasticity, and how does it offer hope for healing? How can family members model healthy emotional expression? In This Episode, You Will Learn The hidden impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and how they manifest in adult behavior. The science of epigenetics and how trauma can be passed down through generations. How trauma-informed care goes beyond understanding to emphasize trauma resolution. Why emotional suppression is one of the most significant contributors to chronic mental illness and addiction. The role of neuroplasticity in healing and rewiring the brain after trauma. How families can create safer spaces for vulnerability, honesty, and connection. Strategies for embracing personal agency and becoming a catalyst for change within your family. This episode is a beacon of hope for families who feel stuck in cycles of pain and dysfunction. If you’re ready to understand the deeper roots of addiction and how to heal as a family, this conversation is a must-listen. Resources: Community: Join our supportive community for families navigating addiction! voicesincourage.com Course: Looking for guidance on supporting a loved one in recovery? Visit VoicesInCourage.com/Family to explore the BALM Family Recovery course—a proven resource for families seeking hope and healing. Book: Move from crisis to thriving while loving someone struggling with addiction. Get "The Five Acts of Courage" — now at voicesincourage.com/book…

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From Struggle to Strength: Supporting Loved Ones in Recovery with Cathie Coe Sipe 49:09

19 weeks ago49:09

49:09

In this episode of "Thrive While Loving an Addict," host KL Wells and guest Cathie Coe Sipe, Founder/CEO of New Each Morning, discuss the challenges and triumphs of supporting loved ones in recovery. Cathie shares her personal journey, including her first husband's battle with alcoholism and her transition from hairdresser to nonprofit leader. Emphasizing the importance of community and post-recovery support, Cathie highlights the need for ongoing resources to prevent relapse. The episode underscores the significance of compassion, intentionality, and creating a supportive environment for those navigating addiction and recovery, offering hope and practical insights for listeners. Some Questions I Ask: How has your experience of being married to someone with alcohol issues informed and influenced the life you’ve created? What tools do you use that are non-negotiable for staying steady in the work that you do? What advice would you give to loved ones who are navigating the complexities of supporting someone in addiction? What was the journey for you in working with women, and how has that impacted you? In This Episode, You Will Learn Personal journey of navigating addiction within a family context. The establishment and mission of New Each Morning, a nonprofit for women in recovery. The impact of addiction on families and the importance of breaking the cycle of enabling. The therapeutic role of community and relationships in the recovery process. The significance of post-recovery support and the gap in resources available for ongoing assistance. The role of trauma as a root cause of addiction and the need for addressing it in recovery. The importance of compassion and understanding in the societal perception of addiction. Strategies for providing emotional support and creating a calming presence for those struggling with addiction. The necessity of building a supportive network to combat isolation in recovery. The balance between caring for loved ones and prioritizing one’s own well-being in the context of addiction. **Need more support? Join the community! https://voicesincourage.com/family For more on Cathie and her work, check out: New Each Morning - Equipping women with purpose, connection, and post recovery support…

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Save Lives This Holiday Season – The Vital Role of Narcan and Advocacy with Dr. Rais Vohra 42:06

21 weeks ago42:06

42:06

In this episode of "Thrive While Loving an Addict," the host KL Wells welcomes Dr. Rais Vohra, an emergency room physician and medical toxicology expert, to discuss addiction and emergency preparedness during the holiday season. They emphasize the importance of having Narcan (naloxone) available to reverse opioid overdoses and provide practical tips for navigating emergency room visits. Dr. Vohra highlights the need for alternatives to opioids for pain management and advocates for patient empowerment and advocacy in medical settings. The episode offers valuable insights and strategies to support loved ones struggling with addiction, especially during the challenging holiday period. Some Questions I Ask: How do we navigate if there's a relapse during the holiday season? What are some practical tips for families to manage emergency situations like a loved one needing an ER visit? How can friends and family advocate effectively for their loved ones in crisis while staying calm and measured? What alternative treatments exist for individuals recovering from opioid addiction, especially when they need medical care involving pain management? What are some trends in addiction treatment, like alternatives to opioids, that are gaining traction and making a difference? In This Episode, You Will Learn Importance of emergency preparedness during the holiday season for individuals in recovery from addiction. The role and accessibility of Narcan (naloxone) in reversing opioid overdoses. Strategies for advocating for loved ones in medical emergencies, particularly in emergency room settings. Alternatives to opioids for pain management, including non-narcotic medications and innovative techniques. Trends in addiction, including the rise of alcohol use disorder and the misuse of inhalants among youth. Addressing the root causes of addiction, such as childhood trauma and societal pressures. The significance of open dialogue about addiction and mental health to foster understanding and support. The need for community education around addiction and the use of Narcan. Preparing families for potential crises related to addiction during stressful times. The importance of calmness and rationality when navigating healthcare systems for individuals in crisis. **Need more support? Join the community! https://voicesincourage.com…

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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The Best Strategies for Supporting a Loved One in Recovery During the Holidays 36:54

23 weeks ago36:54

36:54

In this episode, the host KL Wells engages with Beverly Buncher, founder of BALM Family Recovery , to discuss the emotional challenges families face during the holiday season when a loved one is struggling with substance use disorder. Beverly Buncher, with over 15 years of experience, shares strategies for managing emotions, setting boundaries, and providing support. Key topics include understanding emotional overwhelm ("flooding"), practicing mindfulness and breathing techniques, and the importance of self-care and community support. The episode offers practical advice for creating a safe and supportive environment during the holidays. Some Questions I Ask: The shame, the stigma, the judgment that we have for ourselves around this - how do we move past that? When shame stops you from making that phone call... what do you do? What we're talking about here also is we're interrupting that habit of thinking... how do we make that change? If you're just so angry - honestly, they don't know what to do with themselves - what would be a first step? **Need more support? Join the community! https://voicesincourage.com For More on Beverly and her work, check out: BALM Family Recovery…

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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From Pain to Healing: Transforming Addiction into Connection with Melissa Engle 56:52

25 weeks ago56:52

56:52

In this episode of "Thrive While Loving an Addict," host KL Wells welcomes Melissa Engle, co-owner and executive vice president of Healing Springs Ranch. Melissa, with nearly 40 years of experience in addiction and mental health, discusses the complexities of addiction, defining it as a "pervasive pattern of avoiding emotional pain." She emphasizes the link between trauma and addiction, advocating for a compassionate approach to understanding and supporting loved ones. Melissa also highlights the importance of emotional fitness and resilience, encouraging families to address underlying pain and foster open, supportive environments for recovery. In This Episode, You Will Learn Complexities of addiction and its emotional underpinnings The connection between trauma and addiction Definition of addiction as a pattern of avoiding emotional pain Importance of addressing underlying emotional issues in recovery Role of family members in supporting loved ones with addiction Reframing addiction as a response to pain rather than a moral failing The significance of emotional expression and connection in recovery Challenges faced by families dealing with repeated relapses Stigma and shame associated with addiction and its impact on families The potential for growth and healing through understanding and compassion Questions I Ask How do you unlock the key to get to what the root cause, the real pain is for people? How do you loop the family in in a way that they understand what's really going on here? How does the family or friends navigate when it's they've been through 12 rehabs? If there is a message that you would want families to absolutely hear and absorb, what would that be? **Need more support? Join the community! https://voicesincourage.com…

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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Love, Limits, and Lessons: Navigating Life with an Addict with Waylon Hirst 41:36

27 weeks ago41:36

41:36

In this episode of "Thriving While Loving an Addict," host KL Wells speaks with Waylon Hirst, spouse of sobriety coach Jen Hirst. Waylon shares his journey of supporting Jen through her struggle with alcoholism and recovery. He discusses the early signs of her addiction, the emotional challenges he faced, and the importance of setting boundaries. Waylon reflects on the personal growth he experienced and the commitment required to rebuild trust. Their story highlights the transformative power of love, resilience, and the importance of self-care and community support in navigating the complexities of addiction. **Need more support? Join the community! https://voicesincourage.com/thrive…

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

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Healing the Family: How to Rebuild Trust and Connection Through Recovery with Beverly Buncher 32:53

29 weeks ago32:53