Rise Above with Kevin Lanning

Sponsored by Cozy Earth — elevate your everyday with premium bedding designed for deeper rest and calmer nights. Use code RISEABOVE for up to 20% off at cozyearth.com. Evan grew up in a good Italian family on Long Island. Loving parents. Sunday dinners. Sports. No trauma to blame. By 12, he was smoking weed. By high school, he was selling cocaine. By his early 20s, he was running mortgage fraud in Florida. After his father tragically took his own life, Evan spiraled deeper into addiction — first pills, then heroin, then meth. In California, he built a sophisticated mail theft and credit card fraud operation, stealing checks directly from post office boxes, washing them with chemicals, and cashing out thousands of dollars a day. He was arrested 18 times. When the feds finally caught him, he was facing serious prison time. Behind bars during COVID lockdown, locked in a cell for months, starving and isolated, Evan made a decision that would change his life forever. Today, he’s sober, rebuilding his relationship with his children, and running operations at one of the fastest-growing supplement companies in the country. This is a story about greed, addiction, federal prison, and what happens when you finally stop running. If you’re struggling — don’t give up. #FederalPrison #FraudStory #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddict #RedemptionStory #TrueCrimeStory #RiseAbove #SoberLife #PrisonStory #FromPrisonToPurpose #RecoveryJourney #ExConSuccess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steven Clark was living two lives. From delivering cocaine between California and Hawaii and serving over five years in federal prison… to managing some of the biggest names in professional surfing — including world champions during the height of the Andy Irons and Kelly Slater era. On paper, he had it all. Global travel. Elite athletes. Money. Status. Behind the scenes? Alcohol. Drugs. Ego. Emptiness. At 50 years old, sitting at a high-profile event surrounded by celebrities and legends, Steven realized he had never felt more alone. That night he asked God for help. The next day, a childhood friend showed up and took him to his first AA meeting. He hasn’t had a drink since. In this episode of Rise Above, we talk about: • Federal prison and mandatory minimums • Surf industry fame and managing world champions • High-functioning addiction in elite environments • Andy Irons’ impact on him personally • The moment of clarity that changed everything • 90 meetings in 90 days • Making amends • Life on life’s terms • Finding real fulfillment in sobriety This is a story about ego, consequences, humility, and spiritual transformation. If you're struggling, know this: You don’t have to feel that way again. #AddictionRecovery #FederalPrison #SurfCulture #AARecovery #RiseAbovePodcast #SobrietyJourney #KellySlater #AndyIrons #CocaineTrafficking #HighFunctioningAddict Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Landon Finn had everything going for him. Good grades. Fraternity president. Bright future. But behind closed doors he was drinking at 7AM, tripping on LSD four times a week, blacking out in a Bugs Bunny costume, and hearing voices that weren’t there. He lied to his parents. He lied to his sponsor. He lied to himself. After passing out behind the wheel and landing in acute kidney failure at 21 years old, doctors told him if he showed up a few hours later… he wouldn’t be here. This is the raw story of alcoholism, psychosis, relapse, overdose loss, humility, and rebuilding a life from rock bottom. Three years sober. University of Colorado recovery center leader. Working to open treatment centers and change the system. This is what choosing life looks like. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, this episode could save a life. #AddictionRecovery #Alcoholism #SobrietyJourney #RockBottom #MentalHealth #LSDTrip #Psychosis #YoungAndSober #RecoveryIsPossible #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Hollywood stardom to rock bottom—and everything in between. In this raw and emotional conversation, Lillo Brancato opens up like never before about his rise to fame in A Bronx Tale, early success alongside legends like Robert De Niro, and how addiction quietly took over his life. Lillo shares the brutal reality of heroin addiction, overdosing while incarcerated at Rikers Island, surviving prison, and taking full accountability for his past. With nearly 20 years sober, he reflects on guilt, responsibility, faith, prison life, and what it truly means to make living amends. This is not a story of excuses—this is a story of ownership, consequences, and redemption. If you or someone you love struggles with addiction, this episode offers hope, honesty, and a reminder that change is possible—even after the darkest chapters. #LilloBrancato #ABronxTale #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddiction #PrisonToPurpose #SobrietyJourney #LivingAmends #RikersIsland #RedemptionStory #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Cali Estes returns for a raw continuation of her first appearance on Rise Above — this time diving even deeper into the realities of addiction, trauma, detox, and what’s broken in the recovery system. In this episode, we unpack why addiction is often mislabeled as the problem, how trauma and body chemistry drive destructive behavior, and why many traditional treatment models fail to address the root causes of addiction. Dr. Estes draws from decades on the front lines — working with addicts, families, executives, and high-profile clients — to expose the uncomfortable truths about detox, misdiagnosis, narcissism, medication, relapse, and healing from the inside out. This is not a motivational talk. It’s an honest conversation about addiction, recovery, and the systems meant to help — but often don’t. 📺 Watch her first interview here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFxArXAs0aM #AddictionRecovery #DrCaliEstes #MentalHealth #RecoveryJourney #AddictionTruth #SobrietyTalk #HealingTrauma #TherapyThatWorks #RehabTruth #MindBodyHealing #AddictionPodcast #RecoveryPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She was a high-powered executive, running multimillion-dollar businesses, praised for her hustle and feared in boardrooms — until addiction took over. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Margo Siewert opens up about a life fueled by alcohol, cocaine, ego, and control… and the devastating collapse that followed. From growing up as the daughter of a high-functioning alcoholic, to surviving divorce while pregnant, to nearly dying during childbirth, to building a booming company while quietly spiraling into addiction — everything eventually caught up. When her husband battled terminal cancer, her son was diagnosed with cancer, and her addiction finally came into the light, Margo lost everything she thought defined her. What followed was surrender, rehab, grief, and an unexpected reconnection with faith that changed the trajectory of her life forever. This episode dives deep into: • Cocaine addiction in high-level corporate life • Ego, power, and the illusion of control • Trauma, grief, and survival • Losing your identity — and rebuilding it • Faith, surrender, and recovery • Life after rock bottom This is not a highlight reel. It’s a redemption story — told honestly, painfully, and without filters. If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone. #AddictionRecovery #CocaineAddiction #FaithOverFear #RockBottom #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #WomenInRecovery #GriefAndRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #LifeAfterAddiction #RecoveryIsPossible #AlcoholAndCocaine #FromAddictionToPurpose #RawAndReal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and powerful episode, Lindsey Schaefer shares her story of growing up in a broken home, being abandoned by her mother, and entering foster care at a young age. From childhood trauma and instability to addiction, strip club life, and nearly losing everything, Lindsey walks us through the moments that shaped her—and the turning point that led her to sobriety. Lindsey opens up about being removed from her home, bouncing between foster placements, early exposure to alcohol, surviving overdose, and finding her identity in environments fueled by drugs and nightlife. She also shares how the gym, self-discipline, therapy, and purpose helped her rebuild her life and stay sober for over four years. This is a story about resilience, accountability, and learning how to live life on life’s terms—without numbing the pain. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, trauma, or recovery, this episode is for you. #addictionrecovery #sobrietystory #fostercare #childhoodtrauma #traumarecovery #stripclublife #mentalhealthawareness #recoveryjourney #lifesobriety #healingjourney #riseabovepodcast #recoveryispossible Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this deeply honest episode of Rise Above, Brianna Sirlin shares her unfiltered journey through addiction, relapse, and recovery during the height of the opioid epidemic. Growing up on Long Island, Brianna’s story didn’t start with trauma on the surface — it started with insecurity, anxiety, and the need to feel “enough.” What began with alcohol, weed, Xanax, and Adderall quickly escalated into painkillers, oxy, fentanyl, and years of chaos that included drug dealing, being robbed, multiple rehabs, overdoses, and near-death experiences. In this episode, Brianna opens up about: Her first exposure to substances in middle school Boarding schools, wilderness programs, and resentment Discovering opiates and the moment everything changed Suboxone withdrawal and repeated relapse cycles Overdosing, fentanyl use, and isolation in Los Angeles Finding recovery through AA, faith, and taking suggestions How sobriety reshaped her identity, career, and purpose Working in recovery and helping others today This conversation is raw, emotional, and hopeful — a reminder that no matter how deep addiction goes, recovery is possible. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode may help you feel less alone. #BriannaSirlin #AddictionRecovery #FentanylCrisis #OpiateAddiction #OpioidEpidemic #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryPodcast #RelapseAndRecovery #AARecovery #FaithInRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #RiseAbovePodcast #LongIsland #WomensRecovery #AddictionAwareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special Q&A episode, Kevin Lanning from Rise Above with Kevin Lanning sits down with Louis Ruggiero from Nothing’s Off the Table with Louis Ruggiero for an honest, unscripted conversation answering the most common addiction and sobriety questions from both of our audiences. These questions were pulled directly from comments and DMs across both podcasts — real questions from real people navigating addiction, early sobriety, relapse, recovery, and life after substances. This episode is for: Anyone struggling with addiction or alcoholism People who are sober, newly sober, or thinking about getting sober Those who’ve relapsed and want to come back Parents, partners, and loved ones of addicts Anyone looking for real, experience-based recovery insight Topics covered include: How we actually got sober and what finally worked Cravings vs obsession — what changes over time Relapse and how to come back without shame Weed and sobriety AA, spirituality, and other recovery paths Dating, weddings, and social life while sober Parenting, making amends, and rebuilding trust Trauma, mental health, and emotional sobriety Tough love vs enabling What long-term recovery really looks like No fluff. No preaching. Just two people in recovery answering the questions we get asked every day. If you or someone you love is struggling, you’re not alone — and recovery is possible. #AddictionRecovery #HowToGetSober #Sobriety #RecoveryQandA #Alcoholism #DrugAddiction #RelapseRecovery #EarlySobriety #MentalHealth #AARecovery #AddictionHelp #StayingSober #RecoveryCommunity #SoberLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first time, Kevin Lanning and Louis Ruggiero pull the curtain back. After Hours with Kevin & LJ is a new mini-series created because you asked for it — a real, unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at our lives, conversations, and perspectives when the cameras aren’t “on.” This series isn’t about perfectly structured interviews or polished narratives. It’s about real talk, recovery, friendship, growth, business, mistakes, and the moments that usually happen after the episode ends. In this first episode, Kevin and Louis sit down without an agenda and share candid thoughts on: Life behind the podcast Recovery beyond the microphone What listeners don’t usually get to hear The personal side of building platforms, friendships, and purpose This is raw. This is honest. This is After Hours. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when the show stops recording — this is it. 👇 Let us know in the comments what you want to see more of in this series. #AfterHours #BehindTheScenes #RealTalk #PodcastLife #RecoveryJourney #SobrietyTalk #MentalHealth #LifeAfterAddiction #UnfilteredConversations #KevinLanning #LouisRuggiero Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Shooty had it all on the outside — a successful career in high-level security, executive protection, and international risk mitigation. On the inside, he was quietly losing everything. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Mike opens up about growing up in a stable home, starting to drink at 14, binge drinking through college, and how alcohol slowly took control of his life. After multiple attempts at sobriety, he turned to OxyContin to stop drinking—only to find himself deeper in addiction. Mike shares the terrifying reality of opioid withdrawal, hiding addiction in plain sight, losing his marriage, multiple DUIs, homelessness, and hitting a point so dark he nearly didn’t survive it. His story also dives into the shame of addiction, missing years of fatherhood, and the long road to rebuilding trust. Now over 3 years sober, Mike is deeply involved in recovery—speaking publicly, helping other men navigate sobriety, divorce, legal trouble, and life after addiction. This episode is about surrender, accountability, and what it really takes to change your life when everything has fallen apart. If you or someone you love is struggling, this conversation could be the one that helps. #AddictionRecovery #Alcoholism #OpiateAddiction #DUI #SobrietyJourney #ExecutiveBodyguard #FromAddictionToRecovery #RockBottom #RecoveryIsPossible #MentalHealthMatters #RiseAbove #SoberLife #RedemptionStory #OneDayAtATime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dave Marquess grew up in chaos—raised by addict parents, hustling for survival as a child, and spiraling into drugs by his early teens. By his twenties, Dave was deep in PCP, oxy, heroin, and cocaine, running the streets of Kensington, in and out of jail, and living in full-blown addiction and psychosis. In this raw conversation, Dave opens up about: Growing up with parents addicted to meth and heroin Juvenile detention at 14 and fighting authority at every turn Smoking PCP before school and getting expelled Selling drugs, escort driving, and total moral collapse Calling his own mother to learn how to shoot heroin Experiencing brutal jail withdrawals that nearly killed him The exact moment he said “I’m done”—and meant it Today, Dave is nearly 10 years sober, living with purpose, creativity, and service. He’s the creator of the recovery-based card game Relapse or Recovery, designed to help people connect, reflect, and heal in sobriety. This episode is for anyone who thinks they’re too far gone. Dave proves that no matter how dark it gets—recovery is possible. #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddiction #Kensington #RecoveryIsPossible #JailToRecovery #OpiateEpidemic #SobrietyJourney #FromAddictionToRecovery #CleanAndSober #RecoveryPodcast #MentalHealthMatters #12StepRecovery #TraumaHealing #LifeAfterAddiction #RiseAbove #RecoveryStories #HopeAfterAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Crystal Ambroselli’s story is raw, heartbreaking, and ultimately life-saving. Raised in a home shaped by alcoholism, chaos, and secrecy, Crystal was exposed to addiction at a young age. By 12, she was in treatment. By 15, she was a pregnant teen mom. By 17, she was smoking crack. At 19, she overdosed on fentanyl-laced cocaine and was clinically dead for 10 minutes. This episode dives deep into: • Growing up with an alcoholic father and generational trauma • Teen pregnancy, betrayal, and family collapse • Heavy drug use while raising a child • A near-fatal overdose that should have ended her life • Hitting bottom — mentally, emotionally, and spiritually • Finally surrendering and building real recovery Today, Crystal is 18 months sober, rebuilding trust with her family, and doing the hard work to become the healthy mother her daughter deserves. This isn’t just a sobriety story — it’s about identity, survival, accountability, and choosing life when everything feels broken. If you’re struggling, feel alone, or think it’s “not that bad yet”… this episode might save your life. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #OverdoseSurvivor #FentanylCrisis #TeenMom #CrackAddiction #SobrietyJourney #NearDeathExperience #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible #OneDayAtATime #SoberLife #TraumaHealing #SurvivorStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Austin’s story is one of the most intense, raw, and honest recovery journeys ever shared on Rise Above. After 7 years sober, Austin relapsed—triggered by success, ego, and untreated trauma. What followed was a devastating downward spiral: 🔹 Crack, benzos, kratom, and gambling addiction 🔹 A near-fatal overdose at the Hard Rock Hotel 🔹 20 months running from his life in Mexico, embedded in cartel territory 🔹 Losing millions, his marriage, and himself 🔹 Multiple rehabs, jail, and starting over—again and again But this isn’t just a relapse story. It’s a redemption story. Austin opens up about trauma, pride, fatherhood, faith vs. spirituality, why kratom nearly destroyed him, and what finally changed after decades of trying to stay sober on his own terms. Today, he’s a present father of five, active in recovery, and the author of One Last Hit. This episode is a must-watch for anyone struggling with addiction, relapse, ego, success, or the belief that “this time will be different.” 👉 If relapse has ever been part of your story—or someone you love—this one will hit home. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #RelapseStory #OverdoseSurvivor #HardRockHotel #KratomAwareness #CrackAddiction #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryIsPossible #12StepRecovery #Alcoholism #DrugAddiction #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaHealing #Fatherhood #SecondChances #RedemptionStory #LifeAfterRelapse Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amy Simmonds had everything from the outside — a thriving real estate career, a family, success — but inside she was slowly being destroyed by alcohol. In this raw and powerful conversation, Amy opens up about her childhood wounds, blackouts, relapse after years sober, and the moment she finally surrendered. She shares how grief — especially the sudden loss of her mother — became the catalyst for a deeper calling: a mission to break the stigma around addiction and show others that recovery is not just possible, it’s powerful. Amy is now 12.5 years sober and launching a new movement rooted in honesty, faith, service, and daily commitment. This episode dives into: The hidden alcoholism that no one talks about Relapsing after long-term sobriety Alcohol as a “solution” that quietly becomes the problem Grief, pain, and staying sober through unimaginable loss Why helping others is the key to lasting recovery Breaking the stigma for professionals who “look put together” If you or someone you love is struggling, this conversation could be the sign you’ve been waiting for. 📌 Recovery is not about perfection — it’s about connection. #RiseAbove #Sobriety #Alcoholism #RecoveryJourney #WomensRecovery #BreakingTheStigma #SoberLife #AddictionRecovery #OneDayAtATime #HealingThroughService Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Romaine Campbell is a police officer, husband, father, and a man of unshakable faith — but in 2019, his life was shattered forever. Romaine’s two-year-old son, Hayden Campbell, was rushed to the hospital brain-dead, with a fractured skull and signs of blunt force trauma. The explanation given? “They said he fell out of a bed.” Medical evidence told a different story. In this raw and heartbreaking conversation, Romaine opens up about the night he received the phone call no parent should ever get — learning that his son was fighting for his life after being left alone with his mother’s boyfriend. Despite devastating injuries, the man responsible was granted bond and walked free while Romaine buried his child. This episode goes far beyond the tragedy. Romaine shares: The disturbing details surrounding Hayden’s death What it’s like being a law enforcement officer while your own child’s killer is free The rage, grief, and temptation for revenge — and why he didn’t act on it How grief nearly destroyed his marriage The painful mistakes he made while grieving How faith, accountability, and humility saved his life Why “it’s okay to not be okay” How he turned unimaginable loss into purpose Romaine is also the author of Rooted in Resilience, a deeply personal book about faith, grief, and rebuilding after loss, and is creating a nonprofit to honor Hayden’s legacy through mental health and domestic violence awareness. This is not just a story about loss — it’s a story about restraint, resilience, and choosing not to let tragedy create another victim. ⚠️ Viewer discretion advised. This episode contains sensitive material involving child abuse and death. If this story reaches even one parent, one grieving family, or one person standing at a breaking point — it has done its job. #TrueCrime #JusticeForHayden #Grief #PoliceOfficer #ChildAbuseAwareness #FaithOverVengeance #MurderCase #LawEnforcementStories #FathersGrief #RiseAbove #HealingAfterLoss #MentalHealthAwareness #DomesticViolenceAwareness #Resilience #UnfilteredTruth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When someone you love is struggling with mental illness or addiction, the pain doesn’t stop with them — the family feels it too. In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Brittany Bennett, a licensed mental health counselor specializing in supporting families who love someone diagnosed with conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and substance use disorders. We talk about: Why families often feel shut out, confused, or helpless The stigma around mental health and addiction — and how it hurts loved ones Self-medication, undiagnosed ADHD, and the link between mental health and sobriety When therapy is actually needed (not just during crisis) Boundaries vs. enabling — and when distance may be necessary Why self-care isn’t selfish for family members One-on-one therapy vs. support groups Supporting someone without losing yourself Brittany also shares her personal journey into the mental health field, her experience working in prisons, and insights from her book Selfish Is the New Selfless, which reframes self-care as a necessity — not a luxury. If you’re supporting a partner, child, parent, or loved one with mental illness or addiction, this episode will help you feel seen, understood, and less alone. 👉 If this conversation helps you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. #MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionRecovery #FamilySupport #MentalHealthMatters #SobrietyJourney #TherapyWorks #BipolarDisorder #ADHD #SelfCareIsNotSelfish #HealingFamilies #BreakingTheStigma #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Becky’s story is one of survival at every level. She was sexually abused as a child, adopted into a strict household, and later diagnosed with aggressive cancer just one month after giving birth. Doctors told her she’d be lucky to see her son turn five. She beat cancer—multiple times. But the unresolved trauma, years of surgeries, and being told her life was a ticking clock led her down a darker path. Becky fell into severe alcoholism, stole hundreds of thousands of dollars, lost her marriage, and was eventually sentenced to three years in prison. Even behind bars, cancer returned. Shackled in a hospital bed during radiation treatment, Becky hit a bottom unlike anything she’d ever known. What followed was a brutal reckoning with addiction, accountability, and ultimately, surrender. In this episode, Becky opens up about: Childhood sexual abuse and the lifelong impact of secrecy Being told she wouldn’t live to raise her son Alcoholism that escalated after years of trauma Prison, cancer treatment behind bars, and total loss The exact moment she finally surrendered and got sober Rebuilding her relationship with her son and finding purpose again Becky has now been sober since 2011 and serves as COO of her son’s company—built from the pain of their separation and transformed into something meaningful. This is a powerful conversation about trauma, addiction, resilience, and what it really means to rise after losing everything. If this episode helps even one person feel less alone, it’s worth sharing. #AddictionRecovery #SurvivorStory #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #LifeAfterPrison #CancerSurvivor #AlcoholismRecovery #RiseAbove #RedemptionStory #MentalHealthMatters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Juliet Warner shares her raw, unfiltered journey through addiction, relapse, recovery, and redemption. From a lonely childhood and early substance use to rehabs, relapse after nearly a decade sober, and ultimately rebuilding her life, marriage, and purpose—this conversation is a powerful reminder that addiction doesn’t always look the way we expect. #AddictionRecovery#RelapseAndRecovery#SobrietyJourney#AlcoholismAwareness#RecoveryStories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DJ ActRight sits down with Kevin Lanning to share his powerful journey from active addiction to over 2.5 years sober — all while living a true double life. By day, he’s a middle school teacher in West Virginia. By night and on weekends, he’s touring the country as Petey Pablo’s DJ, performing in packed venues where alcohol and temptation are everywhere. After a DUI became his wake-up call, DJ ActRight made the decision to get sober and hold himself accountable — even behind the DJ booth. In this episode, DJ ActRight opens up about: The shame and mental battles of active addiction Why “once I started, I couldn’t stop” didn’t look how people expect Getting sober in party environments and staying accountable Touring sober, support from artists and bartenders, and setting boundaries Marriage, living amends, and rebuilding trust Why there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery This is a raw, honest conversation about discipline, purpose, and proving to yourself — one day at a time — that change is possible. If this episode helps even one person, it’s done its job. #RiseAbovePodcast #SoberJourney #Sobriety #RecoveryIsPossible #DJLife #FromAddictionToPurpose #SoberLiving #MentalHealth #LivingAmends #OneDayAtATime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michelle Falco opens up about the hidden battle she fought for years — an eating disorder rooted in anxiety, ADHD, perfectionism, and a deep fear of not being enough. Connect with Michelle on IG: andhaleco In this powerful conversation, Michelle shares: How her eating disorder began in adolescence The role dissociation, OCD traits, and intrusive thoughts played Why going to treatment in 2018 changed — and saved — her life Leaving a successful career in advertising to pursue purpose Becoming a licensed social worker and helping others heal Building a mindfulness-based wellness brand with her husband This episode is a raw look at what suffering can look like behind a “normal” life — and how recovery, humility, and self-awareness can lead to a completely new path. If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, or addiction, this conversation may help you feel less alone. You are not broken. You are human. And healing is possible. #EatingDisorderRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #DisorderedEating #RecoveryJourney #AnxietyHealing #ADHDAwareness #MindfulnessPractice #HealingStory #WomenInRecovery #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amy spent decades battling addiction in different forms—anorexia, obsession, control, and ultimately alcohol. From hiding vodka in her bedroom while raising her kids to blacking out during COVID, Amy lived a double life that nearly cost her everything. In this raw and emotional conversation, Amy shares how childhood trauma, OCD, eating disorders, toxic relationships, and owning bars all fueled her addiction. She opens up about the terrifying moments her kids found her passed out, the shame of hiding bottles, and the day her family finally said the words she’d been praying to hear: “You need help.” Three years sober, Amy proves that recovery is possible—even when alcohol is everywhere—and that sobriety isn’t about willpower, but healing the mind behind the addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode could be the one that helps you take the first step. #Alcoholism #RecoveryJourney #Sobriety #AddictionRecovery #EatingDisorderRecovery #AnorexiaAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #FamilyDisease #RiseAbove #OneDayAtATime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andrew’s story is a raw, unfiltered look at what severe alcoholism actually looks like behind the scenes. From growing up with crippling anxiety and a heart condition, to discovering alcohol at 18 and immediately losing control, Andrew spiraled into years of relapse, hospitalizations, psych wards, self-harm, legal consequences, and 13 rehab attempts — all before the age of 27. He drank every morning, worked remote jobs while intoxicated, ran from police during a wellness check involving helicopters and K-9 units, and endured life-threatening alcohol withdrawals that landed him in ambulances and ERs multiple times in a single night. In this episode, Andrew breaks down: Why willpower and discipline never worked for him How anxiety, fear, and control fueled his addiction What alcohol withdrawal really feels like Why alcohol and benzos are among the most dangerous withdrawals How understanding addiction as a disease changed everything The exact moment he surrendered and finally stayed sober Today, Andrew is over 2.5 years sober, living with purpose, helping others, and proving that even when everything looks lost, recovery is still possible. This episode is for: Anyone struggling with alcohol or addiction Loved ones trying to understand the disease People who keep relapsing and feel hopeless Anyone who believes they’ve “tried everything” If this story helps even one person, it’s worth telling. #Alcoholism #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryIsPossible #MentalHealthAwareness #AlcoholRecovery #LifeInRecovery #RelapseRecovery #PsychWardSurvivor #AddictionIsADisease #NearDeathExperience #SobrietyStories #TraumaHealing #AnxietyRecovery #SubstanceAbuseRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #RiseAbovePodcast #SoberLife #SoberCommunity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neva Coleman shares her raw and deeply honest journey through high-functioning alcoholism, trauma, perfectionism, and getting sober at a young age — long before her life “looked” like it was falling apart. In this episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, Neva opens up about growing up in New Jersey, losing her father in the 9/11 attacks, excelling academically and socially, and how alcohol slowly became her coping mechanism. What started as “normal college drinking” at Tulane University escalated into blackouts, extreme anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and a terrifying 3-day Mardi Gras bender that led her to call the suicide hotline. Despite near-death moments, being roofied, severe withdrawals, and repeated attempts to moderate, Neva continued drinking — a reality many people in active addiction know all too well. This conversation dives into the truth about alcohol use disorder, why “high-functioning” doesn’t mean healthy, and how denial can keep someone stuck for years. Neva also talks candidly about: Getting sober in her early 20s Why she didn’t identify as an alcoholic at first Trying moderation and why it failed Anxiety, perfectionism, and people-pleasing The loneliness of early sobriety Finding community through AA and therapy Healing her relationship with her mother Using social media to break stigma and help others This episode is for anyone who: Thinks their drinking isn’t “bad enough” Is successful on the outside but struggling inside Is afraid sobriety means life will be boring Is sober-curious, newly sober, or struggling in silence If this conversation resonates with you, you are not alone — and help is available. Neva's Tiktok & IG: soberpartygirlll 🎧 New episodes of Rise Above every week. 📩 If this episode helped you, consider sharing it with someone who needs it. #RiseAbovePodcast #SobrietyJourney #HighFunctioningAlcoholic #AlcoholismRecovery #YoungSobriety #MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionRecovery #AARecovery #WomenInRecovery #SoberLife #SoberCommunity #RecoveryIsPossible #AlcoholUseDisorder #TraumaHealing #AnxietyRecovery #LifeAfterAlcohol #SoberCurious #BreakingTheStigma #HealingJourney #OneDayAtATime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and deeply emotional episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, Caylene shares the full truth of her battle with alcoholism — a battle that nearly cost her life. What began as “normal” wine drinking slowly escalated into daily dependence, hiding alcohol around her home, drinking before work, and waking up shaking until her first sip. During COVID, her addiction spiraled until her family staged an intervention that saved her life. Soon after, doctors diagnosed Caylene with end-stage liver disease and cirrhosis. She experienced severe alcohol withdrawal, hallucinations, massive fluid buildup that made her look pregnant for over a year, repeated hospitalizations, invasive medical procedures, and was placed on the liver transplant list. Over the course of two years sober, Caylene endured: Liver failure and cirrhosis Weekly and twice-weekly fluid drainage procedures Withdrawal without rehab Life-threatening hospitalizations Emergency surgery removing part of her intestines A TIPS procedure that ultimately saved her life Today, Caylene is over two years sober, medically stable, and using her story to help others who feel trapped in addiction. This episode is a reminder that alcoholism doesn’t always look chaotic — until it suddenly is. And that it’s never too late to ask for help. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode may save a life. #RiseAbove #AlcoholismRecovery #LiverFailure #CirrhosisRecovery #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #AlcoholAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible #EndStageLiverDisease #SoberLife #HealingStories #MentalHealthMatters #WomensRecovery #OneDayAtATime #HopeAfterAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tony had everything on the outside — money, sales success, status, and opportunity — but inside he was spiraling fast. In this episode of Rise Above, Tony opens up about his descent into gambling addiction, Adderall abuse, cocaine use, and a terrifying 5-day stimulant binge that nearly cost him his life. What began as discipline and ambition turned into obsession, hallucinations, paranoia, and suicidal thoughts. Tony shares: How gambling became his first addiction at just 16 Making over $100,000 playing poker and losing it all How Adderall fueled sales success — then completely rewired his brain Snorting prescription stimulants just to feel normal A 5-day binge that led to hallucinations, psychosis, and thoughts of jumping Losing trust, money, relationships, and self-identity Why quitting Adderall was harder than quitting drugs How faith, discipline, and small daily wins rebuilt his life Finding peace, purpose, and sobriety after surrendering everything Today, Tony is over a year and a half sober, a present husband and father, financially stable, debt-free, grounded in faith, and finally at peace. This is a raw conversation about addiction that doesn’t get talked about enough — prescription drugs, performance addiction, and the dangerous lie of “success at any cost.” If you’re struggling, questioning your choices, or feeling trapped in a cycle you can’t escape — this episode is for you. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #AdderallAddiction #GamblingAddiction #PrescriptionDrugAbuse #RecoveryJourney #FaithAndRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #FromAddictionToRecovery #SoberLife #SpiritualAwakening #RedemptionStory #RecoveryIsPossible #ChristianTestimony #LifeAfterAddiction #BreakingAddiction #SalesBurnout #HighFunctioningAddict Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Millicent Huser is a conscious leadership practitioner, trauma-informed mentor, and recovery professional with over 22 years of sobriety and more than two decades working in mental health, addiction treatment, and organizational leadership. In this episode of Rise Above, Millicent explains why putting down alcohol was only the beginning of her journey. Years into sobriety, unresolved trauma, insecurity, and emotional patterns resurfaced — forcing her to confront the deeper inner work required to stay sober, grounded, and fulfilled long-term. Millicent shares how her work today focuses on emotional sobriety, trauma healing, habit transformation, and conscious leadership, helping individuals and organizations create environments where people can grow without burnout, shame, or control. Drawing from her experience working with treatment centers, executive teams, and leaders, she breaks down how workplace culture, identity, and unhealed wounds can quietly undermine recovery — even decades later. This conversation goes beyond addiction and speaks to anyone who has done “the right things” but still feels lost, disconnected, or unfulfilled. Millicent’s upcoming book, Answering the Call, offers a blueprint for conscious leadership and living with purpose — in recovery, work, and life. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #22YearsSober #RecoveryJourney #SecondAwakening #EmotionalSobriety #ConsciousLeadership #HealingTrauma #PurposeDrivenLife #MentalHealth #SpiritualGrowth #PersonalTransformation #RecoveryIsPossible #BreakingCycles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning is one of the most intense, raw, and powerful stories we’ve ever shared. Jana began using painkillers at 14 years old, progressed to shooting heroin daily, and by 18 was homeless, blacklisted by drug dealers, and clinically dead after an overdose so severe she left her body. In this interview, Jana shares: Growing up in chaos and trauma Dating dangerous drug dealers as a teenager Shooting heroin, meth, and crack A near-death experience where she watched herself turn blue Being told she had to return to her body Surviving homelessness, addiction, and overwhelming survivor’s guilt Getting sober at 19 years old Using methadone and Suboxone when few believed in medication-assisted recovery Rebuilding her nervous system, faith, and identity Losing her younger brother to suicide And building a life today filled with purpose, discipline, love, and freedom Jana now has 14 years sober and lives a life rooted in honesty, movement, faith, and service. This is not just a story about addiction— It’s a story about why people use, how trauma lives in the body, and what it really takes to stay sober. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode could save a life. #RiseAbove #HeroinAddiction #RecoveryStory #AddictionRecovery #NearDeathExperience #SobrietyJourney #OpiateEpidemic #MentalHealth #TraumaHealing #MethadoneRecovery #SuboxoneRecovery #HomelessToHope #SoberLife #HealingJourney #SecondChances Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Larkin’s story is one of the most powerful comeback stories you’ll hear. In this episode of Rise Above, Adam opens up about his journey from a middle-class upbringing in New York to years of addiction, drug dealing, near-death trauma, and survivor’s guilt after a horrific car accident that took his best friend’s life. What followed was nearly two decades of opioid dependence — OxyContin, methadone, Suboxone, benzos — all prescribed, all destructive. Adam takes us deep into the realities of long-term addiction, pharmaceutical dependency, and how relapse can happen even after years of sobriety. But this is a story about coming back. Adam shares how he finally found freedom, rebuilt his life from the ground up at age 37, and turned his pain into purpose. Today, he’s sober, engaged, running a successful clothing brand (GET Apparel – “Get In The Trough”), hosting global recovery events across multiple continents, working in the recovery field, and helping others find a way out. This conversation dives into: Early addiction and the first drink Survivor’s guilt and trauma Prescription opioids and long-term Suboxone use Relapse after years of sobriety — and how he made it back Faith, structure, accountability, and purpose Building a business and a life in recovery Why it’s never too late to start over If you’re struggling, thinking about getting sober, or afraid you’ve gone too far — this episode is for you. Everyone loves a comeback story. This is a real one. GET Apparel: getapparel.com Podcast: Get Up Podcast with Adam Larkin Socials: @GI_Apparel | Adam Larkin 🔗 Follow Adam Larkin #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #RecoveryStory #RelapseAndRecovery #OpiateAddiction #SuboxoneRecovery #FormerAddict #ComebackStory #SecondChances #MentalHealth #RecoveryIsPossible #SoberLife #AddictionAwareness #FaithAndRecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Garet McLendon spent years trapped in a cycle of addiction, violence, and incarceration — selling meth, surviving prison riots, and losing everything that mattered most, including his relationship with his daughter. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Garet opens up about: Growing up surrounded by abuse, instability, and addiction Dropping out of school and running the streets Selling meth and cycling in and out of jail and prison Witnessing extreme violence, riots, and survival inside the system The moment he finally surrendered and chose sobriety Rebuilding life from nothing at 33 years old Learning how to be a present, trustworthy father after years of absence Why discipline, structure, and inner work saved his life Now approaching 13 years clean and sober, Garet lives a life rooted in gratitude, discipline, and service — proving that no matter how far gone you think you are, it’s never too late to start over. This episode is for anyone struggling with addiction, incarceration, shame, or feeling “too far behind” to change. If this story helped you, consider sharing it with someone who needs hope. #AddictionRecovery #PrisonToPurpose #SoberLiving #RecoveryStory #LifeAfterPrison #FormerAddict #SobrietyJourney #MethAddiction #SecondChances #RedemptionStory #MentalHealthMatters #Fatherhood #TraumaRecovery #RiseAbove #Incarceration #RebuildingLife #HopeAfterAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lex Jacoby’s story is one of strength, resilience, and quiet courage. In this episode of Rise Above, Lex shares her journey from serving eight years in the U.S. Marine Corps to navigating divorce, single motherhood, and the isolating transition back into civilian life — all without a safety net. This conversation goes far beyond labels. Lex opens up about rebuilding her identity, learning how to stand on her own, and finding confidence and freedom by being unapologetically herself. Whether you’re a veteran, a single parent, or someone going through a major life transition, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to hit rock bottom to have a powerful Rise Above story. #RiseAbove #SingleMomLife #MarineVeteran #WomenWhoRise #LifeAfterTheMilitary #DivorceRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #StrongWomen #VeteranStories #RebuildingLife #HealingJourney #PersonalGrowth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Avery Schlereth never planned on getting sober — until alcohol stopped numbing her anxiety and started running her life. In this New Year, New Me episode of Rise Above, Avery shares what sobriety really looks like beyond the first year. Not just quitting drinking, but learning how to live, heal, and evolve as a sober woman — one year at a time. Year one was about survival. Getting sober in 2024 meant sitting with anxiety she had spent years trying to silence, learning how to exist without alcohol, and discovering a completely new way to move through the world. Year two was where the real work began. Avery focused inward — getting comfortable with herself, addressing old wounds, rebuilding self-trust, and learning who she was without alcohol, chaos, or external validation. Now heading into year three, Avery is operating on all cylinders. She’s applying everything she’s learned, revamping her business, and fully stepping into a new version of herself — grounded, confident, and intentional. In this conversation, Avery opens up about drinking two bottles of wine a night, blacking out, hiding alcohol from loved ones, and why moderation never worked for her. She also shares the moment she realized she was living below her potential, how therapy and AA helped her rebuild from the inside out, and why sobriety didn’t take her life away — it gave her one back. Today marks Avery’s two-year sober anniversary, and her story is a reminder that New Year, New Me isn’t a slogan — it’s a process of growth, honesty, and commitment. If you’re entering a new year feeling anxious, stuck, or tired of telling yourself “I’ll start tomorrow,” this episode is for you. I host a free Rise Above recovery meeting every Monday night. Email: [email protected] 🎧 Subscribe for real stories about mental health, sobriety, growth, and resilience. #SobrietyJourney #AlcoholRecovery #AnxietyAndAlcohol #SoberLiving #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible #TwoYearsSober #WomenInRecovery #AlcoholFreeLife #SoberPodcast #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionRecovery #HealingJourney #SelfWorth #LifeAfterAlcohol #SoberCommunity #AnxietyRecovery #HealthAndWellness #RealRecovery #SobrietyStories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kristen had what looked like a perfect childhood — loving parents, athletics, stability. But at 16, alcohol flipped a switch she didn’t know existed. From blackouts every single time she drank, to toxic relationships, infidelity, sudden death, hospitalizations, and a terrifying medical wake-up call that nearly cost her life — Kristen’s alcoholism spiraled fast and quietly. She drank alone. She drank to numb. She drank to survive. Until alcohol turned on her body — landing her in the hospital with abnormal scans, organ damage warnings, and thoughts she never thought she’d have. This is a brutally honest conversation about: Blackout drinking from the very first drink Alcoholism hiding behind “normal life” Betrayal, trauma, and repeated loss Near liver failure and hospital intervention Being forced into treatment — and why it finally worked Finding purpose, accountability, and real recovery Today, Kristen is 4.5+ years sober, married, trusted again by her family, and living proof that even when recovery starts for someone else — it can still save your life. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode may be the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed. #AlcoholismRecovery #BlackoutDrinking #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #RiseAbovePodcast #RecoveryIsPossible #AlcoholFreeLife #WomenInRecovery #SoberLiving #TraumaAndHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryStories #RockBottom #SoberCommunity #OneDayAtATime #AddictionAwareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support recovery in style with SBR Cartel — 10% of every purchase helps struggling addicts and alcoholics find hope. Get 15% off with code RISEABOVE at sbrcartel.com Meet Jackie, a mother of four who survived childhood sexual abuse, chaotic parenting, violent relationships, addiction, and ultimately prison — where she endured an officer’s misconduct that later resulted in a $3.3 million settlement.But her story isn’t about money.It’s about resilience.In this episode, Jackie walks us through:• Growing up with abuse, neglect, and unsafe environments• Losing her son during active addiction• Developing a brutal opioid addiction• Snorting heroin instead of shooting it to “feel in control”• The hotel arrest that led to prison• The abuse she endured behind bars• Fighting a six-year legal battle• Getting clean, rebuilding her life, and becoming a mother again• Winning a $3.3M settlement — and not letting it destroy her• What relapse taught her after years sober• How she stays clean todayHer transformation is unbelievable — from losing her children, her freedom, and her identity… to creating a new life rooted in honesty, boundaries, faith, and recovery.If you’ve survived trauma, struggled with addiction, or felt like you couldn’t come back from a mistake — Jacqui’s story will move you deeply.🙏 Rise Above Recovery Meeting — Every MondayEmail [email protected] for the Zoom link.🔥 Join the Rise Above Sober CommunityConnect with people who truly get it inside the OpenRecovery app. #trauma #addictionrecovery #prisonstories #survivor #riseabove #opioidepidemic #addictionawareness #childhoodtrauma #recoveryjourney #healingjourney #overdoseawareness #soberlife #sobriety #abusesurvivor #mentalhealthmatters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support recovery in style with SBR Cartel — 10% of every purchase helps struggling addicts and alcoholics find hope. Get 15% off with code RISEABOVE at sbrcartel.com Ronnie’s story is one of the most powerful recovery journeys you will ever hear. In this episode of Rise Above, Ronnie opens up about his unbelievable transformation — from being a professional soccer star drafted #1 in the country, battling alcohol addiction, Valium dependence, cocaine, compulsive gambling, and lying, to becoming a man with 35 years sober and 31 years free from gambling. Ronnie shares: How a Valium prescription at 14 years old led to 20 years of addiction What it was like gambling while playing professional soccer Losing everything — including trust, money, family, and self-respect The $25,000 he stole from his own brother The brutal reality of detox, rehab, and psych wards How the 12 Steps, God, and service saved his life Making amends to the man who raised his children after addiction Building a successful business after recovery Teaching young people how to truly work the steps What it really takes to stay sober one day at a time This episode is for anyone struggling with addiction, gambling, anxiety, lies, ego, shame, or relapse — and for anyone who needs proof that it’s never too late to change your life. #35YearsSober #GamblingAddiction #RecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #RiseAbove #SobrietyJourney #FromAddictionToRecovery #12StepProgram #ValiumAddiction #CocaineAddiction #CompulsiveGambling #Alcoholism #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible #SoberLife #GamblersAnonymous #AARecovery #FaithInRecovery #OneDayAtATime #LifeAfterAddiction #RedemptionStory #KevinLanning #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support recovery in style with SBR Cartel — 10% of every purchase helps struggling addicts and alcoholics find hope. Get 15% off with code RISEABOVE at sbrcartel.com Annie shares one of the most powerful family-side addiction stories ever told on Rise Above. From growing up in a home filled with alcoholism, violence, and silence… to becoming a young mother… to watching her son become addicted to opioids after a football injury — this is the side of addiction rarely spoken about. Annie opens up about: Growing up in a chaotic alcoholic household Her son being prescribed opioids at 17 after a broken jaw Years of chasing, enabling, fear, and emotional collapse Her son’s journey to treatment and now over 10 years sober Hitting her own emotional rock bottom Recovery for family members through meetings, boundaries, and self-work Learning how to stop living in fear and start living in peace Today, Annie works in peer support, helps families in crisis, and is the author of Unhooked and Unbroken, two powerful books about family recovery and surviving addiction. This episode is for: Parents of addicted children Spouses and family members in chaos Anyone affected by addiction who thinks the only problem is the addict Because recovery isn’t just for the person using — it’s for everyone. #AddictionRecovery #OpioidCrisis #ParentsOfAddicts #FamilyRecovery #Codependency #OxyContin #RecoveryIsPossible #RiseAbovePodcast #Alcoholism #DrugAddiction #SoberCommunity #HealingJourney #TraumaHealing #MentalHealthPodcast #RecoverySupport #Intervention #Boundaries #12Steps #EmotionalRecovery #HopeAfterAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support recovery in style with SBR Cartel — 10% of every purchase helps struggling addicts and alcoholics find hope. Get 15% off with code RISEABOVE at sbrcartel.com In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Dr. Jason Rudolph — a psychologist with 28 years of sobriety — opens up about his daily cocaine addiction, massive consequences, failed attempts at school, gambling, lying, shame, and the moment he finally surrendered. Jason shares how he went from doing cocaine every day for two years, destroying relationships, losing opportunities, and spiraling into secrecy — to becoming a respected psychologist who has helped thousands of addicts recover. We walk through: ✔️ His childhood and early signs of addiction ✔️ Daily cocaine use, escalating to talk of smoking crack ✔️ Consequences he could no longer outrun ✔️ The God moment in a bar that changed everything ✔️ His surrender and journey through Hazelden, sober living, and rebuilding ✔️ Becoming Dr. Jason Rudolph — and helping others find the voice he once ignored ✔️ Mentorship, humility, boundaries, and why consequences save lives Whether you’re new to recovery, long-term sober, or trying to help a loved one, this conversation will hit home. Jason’s humility, clarity, and brutal honesty make this one of the most powerful episodes of Rise Above. Follow Dr. Jason Rudolph: IG: @drjasonrudolph Website: DrJasonRudolph.com If this episode helps you — please like, comment, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs hope today. You never have to recover alone. #addiction #recovery #sober #sobriety #cocaineaddiction #rehab #12step #mentalhealth #psychologist #inspiration #risenabove #kevinlanning #addictionrecovery #drugaddiction #soberlife #sobercommunity #overcomingaddiction #recoveryispossible #miracleofsobriety #intervention #hope Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Rise Above, Kevin sits down with Spencer Chamberlain, the legendary frontman of Underoath, for one of the rawest and most vulnerable interviews he’s ever done. Spencer opens up about: Joining Underoath at 23 The early days playing in front of 10 people Breaking away from the Christian-rock label His secret addiction to pills, cocaine, and the nightlife How fame, pressure, and identity spirals nearly destroyed him Navigating the collapse of the band in 2013 His journey to self-worth, therapy, recovery, and rebuilding his life Finding real love, becoming a father, and finally learning to love himself The moment he knew he had to completely change his life This episode is filled with redemption, honesty, and powerful insight into the world behind the music industry’s curtain. Whether you're a fan of Underoath, rock music, or stories of recovery—this interview will hit you hard. If this conversation helps you, please LIKE & SUBSCRIBE. To join Kevin’s Monday night Rise Above Recovery Meeting, email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this deeply emotional episode, Heidi shares the story she’s never fully told—growing up in an ultra-strict宗 Lutheran community comparable to Amish rules, where makeup, music, and even friendships outside the church were forbidden. After being married at 18 and becoming a mother of six, her life spiraled into emotional abuse, fear, and eventually alcoholism. But nothing prepared her for the darkest chapter: watching her teenage daughter fall into heroin addiction, spiraling into the streets, jail, and repeated overdoses. At just 18 years old, Heidi’s daughter tragically passed away from fentanyl. Heidi opens up about: • Escaping a controlling church community • An abusive marriage and losing custody of her children • Her battle with alcohol and multiple rehab attempts • Becoming homeless before rebuilding her life • Her daughter’s addiction, juvenile incarceration, and fentanyl use • The devastating day she received the phone call no parent should ever get • How she found sobriety, purpose, and healing after unthinkable loss If you are a parent of a child struggling with addiction, or you’re battling addiction yourself, this episode is for you. Heidi’s story shows that even through the darkest pain, there is still hope. 🙏 If this episode impacts you, please subscribe and share to help someone who needs it. 📧 For my Monday night Rise Above Recovery Meeting link, email: [email protected] #AddictionStory #FentanylCrisis #Motherhood #RecoveryJourney #RiseAbovePodcast #Sobriety #OverdoseAwareness #TraumaHealing #AddictionRecovery #SurvivorStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Russell’s story is one of the darkest descents ever shared on Rise Above — and one of the most inspiring comebacks.After years trapped in chronic pain, opiate prescriptions, crippling anxiety, and undiagnosed Bipolar II, Russell’s world fell apart:• his marriage crumbled• his career collapsed• his father was dying• he couldn’t sleep for months• he spiraled into heavy drinking + painkillers• and eventually… he planned his own suicideWhat followed is shocking:Russell was admitted twice to a psychiatric hospital, diagnosed bipolar, and eventually underwent electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) — the same “shock therapy” most people fear.But instead of ending his life…He rebuilt it from scratch.Today Russell is sober, mentally stable, and runs a successful pressure-washing business with his two sons — the very people he almost left behind.This interview is raw, emotional, and brutally honest. If you’re struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, or feel like you’re at the end… Russell’s story will show you that there is ALWAYS a way out.🙏 If you need recovery support:Email me to join our weekly Rise Above Recovery Meeting📧 [email protected]👇 Drop a comment if Russell’s honesty helped you today.#RiseAbove#AddictionRecovery#MentalHealthMatters#BipolarDisorder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Ryan shares one of the most shocking alcoholism survival stories we’ve ever heard on this show. From growing up depressed and anxious in Seattle… to binge drinking through college frat life… to running a business while hiding a cocaine addiction… Ryan’s battle with alcoholism escalated until he was drinking 12–20 drinks a day, suffering seizures, and hitting a 0.40 BAC during a police wellness check. But the moment that nearly killed him — and ultimately saved him — was when he collapsed down a flight of concrete stairs, woke up with his teeth knocked out, his face unrecognizable, and a corneal infection so severe doctors considered removing his eye. On top of this, Ryan opens up about the devastating loss of his sister to a fentanyl overdose, the trauma he carried since childhood, and the lies he told himself for years. Today, Ryan is over a year sober, rebuilding his life, helping others, and sharing the tools that finally kept him sober after countless attempts. This is one of the most raw, honest, and emotionally powerful episodes yet. If this story helps you, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and COMMENT below. Your support pushes this message of hope further. #alcoholism #soberstory #addictionrecovery #riseabovepodcast #rockbottom #soberlife #fentanylepidemic #traumahealing #alcoholaddiction #sobrietyjourney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Allen Lund’s story is one of the wildest and most heartbreaking transformation journeys ever shared on Rise Above. Born into chaos in Broward County, Allen grew up around addiction, violence, poverty, and dysfunction. By middle school he was on Xanax, smoking weed just to face the day, and eventually spiraled into a full-blown opioid and crack addiction that led to living two years under a bridge, watching people die around him, and surviving multiple fentanyl overdoses — including one where he woke up 6 hours later and should’ve been dead. After jail time, relapses, homelessness, and countless failed attempts to detox, Allen clawed his way into recovery. Today he’s coming up on one year sober, a devoted father, a partner, and a man with purpose. This episode is raw, graphic, emotional, and brutally honest — but it proves one thing: No matter how far you fall… you can rise again. #AddictionRecovery #FentanylCrisis #RiseAbovePodcast #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryStory #DrugAddiction #HomelessToHope #OverdoseSurvivor #RehabStories #SoberLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Allen’s story is one of the most shocking transformations ever shared on Rise Above. Born into chaos, raised in violence, and surviving a childhood surrounded by abuse, Allen was forced to grow up fast. He joined the Gangster Disciples, earned his stripes through a drive-by shooting, and later became a U.S. Army interrogator deployed across Afghanistan and Africa. After five combat deployments, PTSD, a failing marriage, and a life filled with secrets, everything spiraled. Cocaine. Fake Percs. Fentanyl. Losing jobs. Losing hope. Losing himself. And when CPS took his kids — everything changed. Today, Allen is 15 months sober and rebuilding his life with purpose, faith, and service. His journey shows that no matter how far you’ve fallen, you can rise above.If you or someone you love is struggling… this episode could save a life. Join our Rise Above Recovery Meeting (Mondays at 8 PM EST):Email [email protected] for the link. Patreon members get early access + exclusive live interviews:Patreon.com/RiseAbovePod #riseabovepodcast #fentanyl #addictionrecovery #gangsterdisciples #armyinterrogator #ptsd #sobrietyjourney #drugaddiction #traumasurvivor #kevinalanning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Hoff’s story is one of the most powerful transformations ever shared on Rise Above. Growing up in a small Minnesota town with an alcoholic father, Jessica swore she’d never become him. But one blackout in college sent her spiraling into years of binge drinking, cocaine, Xanax, opiates, and a near-fatal battle with breast cancer. Her life completely unraveled—addiction, a failing marriage, losing custody, and waking up in rehab with no memory of getting there. But nothing compares to the day she flew home to make amends… and found her father dead on the floor. What happened next changed her life forever. In this raw, emotional, and deeply spiritual interview, Jessica reveals: Her first blackout that launched a decade of chaos How cancer, pain pills, Xanax, and coke took over her life The brutal detox she barely survived The divine intervention that got her into treatment Finding her dad dead—and the God moment that kept her sober Rebuilding her life, motherhood, spiritual connection & purpose Her work as a healer helping others through sound, energy, and meditation Jessica is now over 7 years sober, a mother, healer, and walking example of what recovery can look like when you surrender and do the work. 👉 If this episode moved you, please subscribe, comment, and share. Your support helps us change lives. 👉 Join our Monday Night Recovery Meeting: Email [email protected] for the link. 👉 Go deeper with Rise Above on Patreon — early access, live Q&A, behind-the-scenes, and more. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #Alcoholism #RecoveryCommunity #AddictionStories #SoberLife #MentalHealthAwareness #CocaineAddiction #OpiateAddiction #XanaxAddiction #AAProgram #SpiritualAwakening #HealingJourney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alex’s story is the definition of Rise Above. Raised just outside of D.C., Alex had a solid upbringing—until a life-shattering trauma at age 9 changed everything. Losing his father to addiction left a hole he didn’t know how to fill… and by 11 years old, he found the first thing that made him feel “connected”: getting high. What started as weed quickly turned into a full-blown lifestyle—dropping out of school, running the streets, dealing drugs, chasing status, and doing whatever it took to feel okay. By his late teens, Alex was deep into cocaine, then crack. Florida became a new playground, but the addiction followed—fast. The party life turned into homelessness, violence, felony charges, and multiple prison stints. At one point he had five felonies, lost every opportunity in front of him, and spiraled into the darkest place imaginable. But in the middle of prison—while getting high on rat poison and living in survival mode—one brutal moment of truth from a cellmate cracked the armor. That day became the turning point that led Alex to complete surrender, recovery, and a new life built on faith, service, and accountability. Today, Alex is coming up on four years sober, living with peace he never thought was possible, and dedicating his life to helping others find a way out. If you’re struggling, feel stuck, or think you’re too far gone… this one’s for you. Rise Above Recovery Meetings: Every Monday night. Open meeting for anyone struggling with addiction, alcohol, gambling, food, etc. Email me at [email protected] for the link + weekly updates. If this episode helped you, please like, subscribe, and share—your support helps us spread hope to the next person. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #RecoveryStory #CrackAddiction #CocaineAddiction #PrisonToPurpose #FelonToFreedom #FaithAndRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #SecondChances #RecoveryIsPossible #FloridaRecovery #DelrayBeach #12StepRecovery #HopeDealer #LifeAfterAddiction #TraumaRecovery #SoberLife #Inspiration Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Dr. Monica Vermani — clinical psychologist, trauma expert, TED speaker, and author — breaks down the true roots of stress, anxiety, trauma, maladaptive coping, and why so many of us feel overwhelmed in today’s world. From the role of childhood wounds to the patterns we repeat in adulthood, Dr. Vermani explains why we get stuck, how to break cycles of pain, and why rituals and slowing down are essential to healing. She unpacks everything from self-medication, addictive behaviors, people-pleasing, anger, boundaries, relationships, and the myth of “reinventing yourself.” If you’ve ever struggled with trauma, mood swings, anxiety, addiction, overwhelm, or feeling “not enough,” this conversation will change your life. Dr. Vermani’s work has helped thousands—and today, she shares her tools with you. 📘 Her Book: A Deeper Wellness: Conquering Stress, Mood, Anxiety & Trauma Available on Amazon & at DrMonicaVermani.com 🧠 Follow Dr. Vermani: Instagram | Website | Psychology Today Column 🆘 Every Monday Night: Rise Above Recovery Meeting Open to anyone struggling with addiction (alcohol, drugs, gambling, food). To join: Email [email protected] for the meeting link & updates. 💙 If this interview helped you, please LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to support the mission. #TraumaHealing #AnxietyRelief #MentalHealthMatters #StressManagement #PsychologyTalk #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionRecovery #EmotionalHealing #TherapyTools #MindfulnessDaily #InnerPeaceJourney #DrMonicaVermani #ThoughtWork #HealingTrauma #CopingSkills #SobrietyTools #SelfImprovementDaily Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and unfiltered episode of Rise Above, Michael Chosewood shares one of the wildest fentanyl addiction stories ever told on this channel. From smoking weed as a freshman athlete… to crushing Xanax bars before school… to flipping houses, running a CBD company, and secretly trafficking fentanyl pills between the U.S. and Nicaragua—Michael was a high-functioning addict whose entire life unraveled behind the scenes. His addiction spiraled so far out of control that he overdosed in an airplane bathroom mid-flight, forcing an emergency medical response the moment the plane landed. Yet even that wasn’t enough to stop him—at least, not yet. Michael opens up about: Growing up as a star athlete in Georgia Getting hooked on Xanax at 14 The first overdose that should’ve killed him Running from warrants, debt, and guilt Living in Nicaragua while importing fentanyl pills The overdose on the airplane that changed everything Detoxing from fentanyl and Xanax for 31 brutal days The spiritual experience that finally broke the cycle Finding real sobriety in Charleston Making amends, rebuilding his life, and choosing God His journey is a powerful reminder that it truly gets worse—until you decide it doesn’t have to. If Michael’s story inspired you, please LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to help us spread hope. #Fentanyl #AddictionRecovery #SoberLiving #RiseAbove #DrugAddiction #FentanylCrisis #RecoveryJourney #Sobriety #AddictToAthlete #OverdoseSurvivor #XanaxAddiction #DrugRehab #RecoveryCommunity #FaithAndRecovery #Inspiration #NeverGiveUp #YouAreNotAlone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gia seemed to have it all together—13 years clean, a child, a spiritual awakening. But one drink changed everything. In this powerful and vulnerable episode of Rise Above, Gia shares her journey from childhood in New Jersey to addiction in Florida, her battle with mental health, and the crushing weight of postpartum depression. She opens up about her two marriages, spiritual growth, and how community and self-honesty brought her back from the brink. Her story is a beacon for anyone struggling with relapse, loneliness, or the pressure to be “okay.” #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #SobrietyJourney #PostpartumDepression #RiseAbovePodcast #GiaStory #AARecovery #WomenInRecovery #RelapseToRecovery #SpiritualAwakening #TraumaHealing #MotherhoodUnfiltered #RecoveryPodcast #AlcoholismAwareness #AddictionSupport Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Olympic figure skater Nicole Bobek was once America’s golden girl — a national champion with worldwide fame, endorsement deals, red-carpet tours, and the spotlight of the 1998 Winter Olympics. But behind the sequins and standing ovations, Nicole was spiraling into addiction, identity struggles, trauma, and eventually a meth addiction that led to a high-profile arrest splashed across national headlines. Nicole’s story is a journey through fame, pain, accountability, and ultimate redemption — proof that no matter how far someone falls, they can rise again. If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone.Rise Above. #NicoleBobek #RiseAbovePodcast #Olympics #FigureSkating #AddictionRecovery #MethAddiction #RedemptionStory #TraumaSurvivor #RiseAbove #KevinLanning #SoberLiving #RecoveryCommunity #InspiringStories #SobrietyJourney #ComebackStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He swore he’d never touch a needle. But inside a California prison, surrounded by chaos, violence, and addiction—he did. This raw, unfiltered story follows one man’s journey from trying meth at 9 years old to shooting heroin behind bars, losing everything, and ultimately finding redemption. He survived prison riots, overdoses, and years of chaos before rebuilding his life through sobriety, faith, and service. Today, he helps others break free from the same darkness that once consumed him. ⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains graphic stories of addiction and incarceration. 💬 If this story moved you, please like, comment, and share — it helps us reach more people who need to know recovery is possible. 📩 Join the weekly Rise Above Recovery meeting — email [email protected] 🌐 Learn more: https://riseabovepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices