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Brendan was on the verge of becoming a hopeless, inveterate heroin addict when he, for the sake of his young daughter, decided to turn his life around. He enlisted in the Granite Mountain Hotshots, a crew of elite hotshot firefighters based in Prescott, Arizona. Their superintendent, Eric Marsh, was in a desperate crunch after four hotshots left the crew, and seeing a glimmer of promise in the skinny would-be recruit, he took a chance on the unlikely McDonough, and the chance paid off. Despite the crew’s skepticism, and thanks in large part to Marsh’s firm but loving encouragement, McDonough unlocked a latent drive and dedication, going on to successfully battles a number of blazes and he eventually wins the confidence of the men he came to call his brothers.  Then, on June 30, 2013, while McDonough–“Donut” as he’d been dubbed by his crew–served as lookout, they confronted a freak, 3,000-degree inferno in nearby Yarnell, Arizona. The relentless firestorm ultimately trapped his hotshot brothers, tragically killing all 19 of them within minutes. Nationwide, it was the greatest loss of firefighter lives since the 9/11 attacks.  After the unfathomable loss of that day, McDonough suffered from seemingly insurmountable bouts of depression, Post-Traumatic Stress, and issues with alcohol. But the light of hope that inspired him to keep living in one of his darkest moments—his family who needed him—inspired the firefighter to fight on against depression, addiction and to inspire others to find their best selves, even if that means often looking beyond the self. Building a sense of brotherhood within communities gives McDonough great joy – because it helps this fighter honor the legacy of his 19 lost, but not forgotten, brothers.    Subscribe to The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify Stitcher | iHeart | TuneIn | Overcast | SoundCloud   Resourced Mentioned: Brendan's Treatment Center - Holdfast Recovery Brendan's book - Granite Mountain

In this special Q&A episode, we dive deep into the science behind **compulsive behaviors** and explore what’s really happening in the brain of someone with a compulsive disorder. Whether it’s compulsive gambling, overeating, or obsessive cleaning, you’ll learn how the brain’s reward system, emotional regulation, and impulse control are impacted. We break down the key differences between physical dependence and addiction, and explain why people feel driven to repeat these behaviors even when they know the consequences. Tune in for a fascinating discussion that sheds light on the complex world of compulsions and how they affect everyday life!

In this episode of The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast, Ashley sits down with Sarah Moore, wife of previous guest Preston Moore, to explore her unique life journey. Born in Florida but raised in the UK, Sarah shares her experience of moving back to the United States with dual citizenship and building a life of resilience, creativity, and recovery. Sarah dives into her early life in England, the complexities of growing up in an alcoholic home, and how it shaped her emotional landscape. She discusses the challenges of being in a relationship with someone in recovery, the process of learning about alcoholism, and how these experiences led her to her own path of self-improvement and coaching. Throughout the episode, Sarah offers a raw and insightful look into her struggles with control, self-righteousness, and the journey toward acceptance and self-love. She shares how Al-Anon played a crucial role in her recovery, helping her navigate the emotional turmoil of living with an alcoholic and providing her with the tools to grow as an individual. Sarah also opens up about the intersection of her recovery and parenting, discussing the fears and hopes she has for her son and how she and Preston are working to create a healthy and open environment for him. Finally, Sarah talks about her book, Full of Herself, the process of writing it, and the impact it has had on her life and career. She reflects on the importance of mindset in both personal and professional growth and shares her thoughts on the future, including her goals for financial freedom and family travel. Topics Covered: Dual citizenship and identity Growing up in an alcoholic home Understanding alcoholism and its impact on relationships The role of Al-Anon in personal recovery Parenting in recovery The journey of writing and publishing a book Mindset and business growth Resources Mentioned: Full of Herself by Sarah Moore Daring Greatly by Brené Brown Works by Adam Grant Connect with Sarah Moore: Website: More Soul Sessions Instagram: @more.soul.sessions Tune in for an inspiring conversation about recovery, resilience, and the journey of self-discovery with Sarah Moore.

In this poignant episode, I sat down with Brenda Daly, a licensed clinician with nearly 40 years of experience, who opened up about her deeply personal journey of loss, resilience, and love. Brenda shared the harrowing story of her son Kevin’s traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the 11 years of challenges that followed, culminating in his tragic death due to an accidental drug interaction involving fentanyl. We delved into the complexities of living with a TBI, the impact of chronic pain, and the often misunderstood relationship between addiction and traumatic injuries. Brenda also discussed her transformation after Kevin’s death, finding meaning through grief, and the power of resilience. This episode sheds light on the hidden struggles of TBI survivors and their families, and the importance of grief literacy in navigating profound loss.

The Courageous Book Club is a space where we’re going to explore some of the most important books related to mental health, trauma, recovery, and personal growth. Whether you’re a seasoned reader or someone who prefers to listen in and learn from discussions, this series is for you. Here’s how it’s going to work: I’ll be reading a book—annotating it, pulling out the key insights, and presenting them to you in a series of episodes. I’ll let you know ahead of time what book we’ll be covering so you can choose to read along with me. But if reading isn’t your thing, don’t worry—you can just tune in for the cliff notes and still gain all the valuable information. Each book will be divided into parts, depending on its length, and I’ll release an episode for each part . These episodes will be packed with quotes, references, and even cross-references to other books and resources for a deeper dive. And of course, I’ll link back to relevant interviews from our past six seasons that resonate with the topics we’re covering. My goal with The Courageous Book Club is to create a space where we can not only listen to powerful stories but also learn from them—really dig into the underlying issues and expand our understanding. Whether you choose to read the book or just listen to the episodes, my hope is that you’ll walk away with a deeper perspective and maybe even a new set of glasses through which to view the world.

Lauren Eager shares her story of growing up with a sociopath father and a mother who committed murder. She discusses the impact of her childhood on her adult life and the importance of being kind to children. Lauren's experiences shaped her into an independent and resilient individual, but also left her with anger and sleep issues. She emphasizes the significance of having a pet and the desire to live life to the fullest. Relationships, both familial and romantic, have been challenging for Lauren, but she has found deep connections in some of them. Lauren Eager shares her experiences and journey, from modeling to starting her own agency, and how it shaped her identity. She discusses her early jobs, the influence of her grandmother, and her decision to pursue modeling. Lauren also talks about her transition into the corporate world and her mission to inspire others. She emphasizes the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and making bold decisions to change your life. Lauren's unique perspective and relentless pursuit of personal growth make her a fascinating and inspiring individual.

Greg Shindler shares his experience of growing up in an alcoholic household and the impact it had on him. He discusses the importance of vulnerability and the power of being raw and unfiltered. Greg reflects on his journey of healing and forgiveness, as well as the coping mechanisms he developed, such as drinking and drug use. He highlights the need for self-compassion and setting boundaries as part of the healing process. The conversation explores the concept of internal boundaries and the process of owning and processing emotions. It delves into the journey of sobriety and the lessons learned along the way. The importance of community and support in maintaining sobriety is highlighted. The conversation also touches on the power of humility and the ability to surrender to obstacles and learn from them. Various strategies for managing challenging emotions and situations are discussed. In this final part of the conversation, Greg Shindler discusses the importance of self-awareness and personal growth in recovery. He shares how his sponsor helped him understand his true nature and how he could change through sobriety and working the steps. Greg also talks about the liberating experience of facing his true self and the importance of surrendering to the recovery process. He shares personal stories and emphasizes the value of humility, gratitude, and curiosity in personal transformation. Greg also discusses his work in the field of longevity and cellular medicine, highlighting the need to address functional decline and improve health span as people age. 🎧 What you'll learn: The power of vulnerability and creating a culture of safety Overcoming trauma and addiction The significance of community in recovery The role of cellular medicine and stem cells in promoting longevity Practical tips for managing stress and improving overall health More Information: www.GregShindler.com

In this episode, award-winning podcast host Ashley Loeb Blassingame interviews Kaitlin Henry, who has been sober for five years. Kaitlin shares her journey from growing up in an environment where alcohol was normalized to becoming a mother and struggling with the pressures of parenthood and societal expectations. She discusses her experience with the sober curious movement, realizing that despite not having outward consequences, she continually broke promises to herself about her drinking. Kaitlin emphasizes the importance of self-care, noticing feelings, and creating healthy coping mechanisms to maintain sobriety and overall well-being.

In this episode, Julie Reisler shares her compelling journey through a challenging childhood marked by a father's PTSD and a mother's emotional instability. Julie opens up about the impact of her parents' love and dysfunction, and how it shaped her coping mechanisms and path to recovery. Through honest reflection, Julie discusses her struggles with food addiction, the pressures of people-pleasing, and the profound realization of her parents' limitations. Additionally, Julie delves into her spiritual journey, highlighting how she found solace and healing through practices like energy medicine and tapping. Listeners will gain insight into the complexities of growing up in a chaotic environment, the importance of finding healthier ways to self-soothe and heal, and the transformative power of spiritual growth in recovery.

In this enlightening episode of "The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast," host Ashley Loeb Blassingame sits down with Diana Zaheer, a spiritual teacher and healer with a unique background in energy work and global spiritual traditions. Diana shares her journey from seeing energy as a child to studying with spiritual teachers across Asia. They delve into the concept of the critical voice, its impact on our lives, and how to work with it to foster self-compassion and inner peace. Diana also discusses her latest project, "Over the Counter Meditations," a collection of spontaneous meditations paired with beautiful music and animations, aimed at helping people connect with their inner selves. What the Listener Will Learn: Diana Zaheer's background and spiritual journey Diana’s childhood experiences with seeing energy Insights from studying various spiritual traditions globally Practical ways to start understanding and feeling energy and spirituality Importance of self-compassion and inner exploration Techniques for checking in with oneself and understanding the inner world The concept of the critical voice and how it impacts us Methods to recognize and work with the critical voice for personal growth The creation process of "Over the Counter Meditations" Combining meditation, music, and animation for spiritual learning

Elle shares her incredible story of surviving a mass shooting at a music festival. She opens up about her adoption, the challenges she faced growing up, and the impact of the shooting on her mental health. Elle discusses her physical injuries, including being shot in the head, and the surgeries she underwent to remove bullet fragments. She also talks about the emotional journey of healing and processing the trauma, including experiencing anxiety and panic attacks. Elle emphasizes the importance of therapy in her recovery. Elle shares her experience of recovering from a traumatic brain injury and the impact it had on her mental health. She emphasizes the importance of therapy and the benefits it brought to her life. Elle discusses the challenges of having an invisible injury and the difficulty of explaining her experience to others. She talks about the changes in her life and her decision to start her own business to help others with mental health issues. Elle's message is that everyone has bravery and inner resiliency within them, and it's important to seek help and support when needed.   Takeaways Elle shares her experience of surviving a mass shooting at a music festival and the impact it had on her life. She discusses her adoption and the challenges she faced growing up, including feeling different and navigating her identity. Elle opens up about her physical injuries, including being shot in the head, and the surgeries she underwent to remove bullet fragments. She talks about the emotional journey of healing and processing the trauma, including experiencing anxiety and panic attacks. Elle emphasizes the importance of therapy in her recovery and finding support to navigate the aftermath of the shooting. Therapy is important for everyone, regardless of whether they have experienced trauma or not. Having an invisible injury can be challenging, as others may not understand the internal impact it has on a person's life. Sharing one's story and experiences can inspire and help others who may be going through similar situations. It's important to recognize and appreciate the bravery and resiliency within oneself. Recovering from a traumatic experience can lead to a reevaluation of life and a desire to find purpose and joy. Comparing traumas and downplaying one's own experiences is not helpful for healing and growth. Seeking help and support is essential for navigating the challenges of mental health. Opening up about mental health can spark meaningful conversations and connections with others. Anxiety and preparedness can coexist, but it becomes unhealthy when it prevents a person from enjoying life. Finding joy and pursuing one's passions can be a powerful way to reclaim life after trauma.

In this gripping and heartfelt episode, Ashley sits down with Lindsay S to explore her harrowing yet inspirational journey through addiction, psychosis, and the path to recovery. Lindsay shares candidly about her childhood, the trauma that shaped her early years, and the intense struggles with eating disorders and substance abuse. Her story is one of resilience and hope, as she details her battles with addiction, the impact on her family, and the ultimate triumph of finding sobriety and reclaiming her life. Listeners will be moved by Lindsay's raw honesty and inspired by her unwavering determination to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. What Listeners Will Learn: The impact of childhood trauma on addiction and mental health. The complexities and challenges of dealing with eating disorders. The role of family dynamics and expectations in personal development. The experience of psychosis and its effects on daily life. Strategies for seeking help and the importance of support systems in recovery. The significance of comprehensive treatment programs and the 12-step process. The emotional and psychological journey of regaining custody and rebuilding family relationships. The importance of willingness and perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds. The transformative power of self-forgiveness and making amends. The potential for recovery and redemption, no matter how severe the struggle.

In this episode, Ashley interviews Dr. Eric Arzubi, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist with a fascinating journey from finance to psychiatry. Dr. Arzubi shares his personal and professional experiences, highlighting the importance of mental health care, especially in rural communities. They delve into the challenges and nuances of mental health diagnosis, the stigma around medication, and the critical need for early intervention. The conversation also explores the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on long-term health outcomes and the potential benefits of telehealth in increasing access to mental health services.   You Will Learn... Dr. Eric Arzubi's unique journey from finance to becoming a child and adolescent psychiatrist. The significant impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on long-term mental and physical health. Insights into the stigma surrounding mental health medication and how to approach it. Differences in mental health challenges between high-pressure urban settings and rural communities. The critical importance of early intervention in addressing mental health issues. The role of telehealth in providing accessible mental health care, especially in underserved rural areas. How to recognize signs of mental health issues in children and the importance of addressing them early. Practical advice for parents dealing with their children's mental health, including the balance of medication and therapy. Personal stories and reflections from Dr. Arzubi's practice and his own experiences with anxiety. The benefits of using technology and innovative practices to overcome barriers in mental health care delivery. Contact Dr. Arzubi: linkedin.com/in/drzoobs https://frontier.care/ https://www.instagram.com/frontier_psychiatry/ https://www.facebook.com/frontierpsych.care

In this episode, Preston Moore joins the podcast to discuss his journey and insights on mental health, addiction, and emotional dysfunction. Preston, who recently delivered a powerful TEDx Talk, shares his perspective on the root causes of mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of addressing family dysfunction and emotional fitness. He highlights the long journey many face before receiving a diagnosis and the critical need for proactive emotional health practices. Throughout the conversation, Preston and Ashley delve into personal anecdotes, the importance of support systems, and practical strategies for fostering emotional well-being. Bullet Points Preston Moore discusses his recent TEDx Talk on mental health and addiction stigma. Emphasizes the importance of addressing family dysfunction and emotional fitness. Highlights the long average duration before mental health diagnoses (11 years). Discusses inherited emotional rules and their impact on family dynamics. Explores the importance of proactive emotional health practices and support systems. Personal anecdotes on parenting and emotional health strategies. The role of community and peer support in recovery and emotional well-being. Practical tips for creating a mental and emotional fitness plan. The importance of self-awareness and willingness to change for improving family dynamics.

In this episode, we sit down with Kayli, who opens up about her childhood in Rock Springs, Wyoming, and the complex family dynamics that shaped her early years. Kayli shares her experiences growing up with a single mother, navigating life in a dysfunctional but loving home, and facing the challenges of mental health and substance abuse. As a CPS worker, Kayli witnessed the harsh realities of trauma and addiction, further compounding her own struggles with suicidality and alcoholism. Now, with 4 months of sobriety, she recounts her journey through trauma, her path to recovery, and the ongoing battle to find stability and peace. Kayli's story is a testament to resilience and the power of seeking help.

Join me for an exclusive interview with Arlina Allen, the dynamic host of The Self Help Junkie, a podcast that delves deep into personal growth, self-improvement, and recovery. Arlina is not only a renowned certified recovery coach but also the visionary founder of Sober Life School, an innovative program dedicated to helping individuals transform their lives through sobriety. In this episode, Arlina shares her journey, insights, and the driving forces behind her passion for helping others. Listeners will gain valuable wisdom on overcoming obstacles, embracing change, and achieving lasting recovery. In our conversation, Arlina opens up about her personal experiences with addiction and recovery, offering a candid and inspiring perspective on what it takes to rebuild a life of purpose and fulfillment. She discusses the creation of Sober Life School and its mission to provide comprehensive support for those seeking sobriety. Additionally, Arlina shares practical tips and strategies for personal development, emphasizing the importance of mindset, self-compassion, and community in the recovery journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their life, whether they are in recovery or simply on a path to self-betterment. Links: Sober Life School- http://www.soberlifeschool.com Reinvent - Self Esteem Course http://www.selfesteemcourse.com Podcast http://www.odaatchat.com Social Media: Facebook Page: facebook.com/odaatchat Instagram: @odaatpodcast @arlinaallen  Recovery podcast Arlena Allen Sobriety journey Overcoming alcoholism Self-worth and recovery Sober Life School Reinvent self-esteem End self-sabotage Certified recovery coach Long-term sobriety

In this captivating episode of "The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast," host Ashley Loeb Blassingame interviews Grammy-winning composer and board-certified music therapist Brendan Berry. Brendan recounts his incredible transformation from a punk rock bassist to a leading figure in music therapy and mental health advocacy. Struggling with social anxiety and addiction, Brendan found solace and healing through music. His journey led him to not only overcome his personal challenges but also to achieve professional success and recognition. Throughout the episode, Brendan discusses the therapeutic power of music, sharing how it played a crucial role in his recovery. He provides valuable insights into the intersection of creativity and mental health, highlighting the importance of using one's passion as a tool for healing. Listeners will be inspired by Brendan's resilience and dedication, learning how music can serve as a powerful means of overcoming adversity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health, music therapy, and the incredible stories of those who turn their lives around against all odds. Tune in to hear Brendan Berry's story of redemption, recovery, and musical triumph. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the healing power of music and the inspiring journey of a true artist and advocate. Grammy Interview with Brenden Berry MusiCares

In the podcast interview, Samantha Lander shares her journey through substance abuse, recovery, and personal growth, revealing her early struggles with addiction that began in her youth in St. Louis, Missouri. Despite an outwardly ideal childhood, her life was fraught with emotional neglect, leading to early substance use and later complications like infertility treatments that deepened her dependency. Her addiction resulted in a prison sentence and ongoing battles with sobriety, particularly challenging as she navigated a toxic marriage and motherhood, highlighting the deep emotional work necessary for stable recovery. Samantha also discusses her efforts to rebuild her life after addiction, focusing on the importance of community support and personal resilience. She leverages her platform through initiatives like a significant sober giveaway on Instagram to connect with others in recovery, while juggling her role as a fitness trainer. Her story underscores the complexities of integrating recovery with personal and professional life, emphasizing continuous effort in maintaining sobriety and pursuing personal growth amidst the challenges of rebuilding relationships and managing a business. Samantha Lander: @seefitliving Podcast Instagram: @couragetochange_podcast Want to connect with the host, Ashley Loeb Blassingame? : @ashleyloebblassingame Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to apply!

In this enlightening episode, join our host as they delve into the revolutionary world of Bright Line Eating with Susan Peirce Thompson. Discover why traditional weight loss strategies often fail and how thousands have found lasting success beyond mere willpower. Susan shares her gripping personal journey from battling various addictions to achieving sobriety and becoming a neuroscientist. Learn about the Susceptibility Scale—a pivotal tool in Bright Line Eating that reveals how your brain may be hindering your weight loss efforts. If you’re scoring high, it’s not just about calories; it’s about reprogramming the brain. Tune in for an episode filled with humor, insight, and inspiring stories that could change the way you think about dieting forever. Bright Line Eating: www.brightlineeating.com Bright Line Eating: @brightlineeating Susan Peirce Thompson: https://www.susanpeircethompson.com/ Podcast Instagram: @couragetochange_podcast Want to connect with the host, Ashley Loeb Blassingame? : @ashleyloebblassingame Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to apply!