Sobertown Podcast

Podcast description: In this episode of Sobertown Podcast, Michal and Jeff discuss recovery from addiction and the role that mental health disorders play. Jeff explains his counseling approach, emphasizing the importance of accepting reality rather than resisting it, and the concept that substances distort reality. They discuss how recovery is an individual process that requires connection with others, and how treatment centers help people by removing them from daily stressors to allow for rational decision-making. They delve into the role that dopamine plays in addiction, as well as exploring the topics of resentment and betrayal. The conversation also covered Jeff's book "Simple Sh!t for Complicated People," which aims to provide an accessible, conversational guide to recovery principles. They conclude by discussing the importance of authentic self-connection and the idea that just because something is familiar doesn't necessarily mean it's healthy. There’s a lot of information packed into this short episode, be sure to catch it! Jeff Hayward is an author, facilitator, and nationally and internationally accredited counsellor specializing in the treatment of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Website: simpletheory.ca Insta: the_simple_theory_ FB: Simple Theory Book link: https://a.co/d/02BKc71o About Michal: Michal is an American podcaster and sober warrior who believes every recovery journey is as unique as the individual traveling it. With over a decade of sobriety garnered through various recovery systems, programs, and support networks, she's passionate about breaking down stereotypes and smashing through the shame that can keep those suffering with addiction in the dark. Michal is an animal lover, rescue advocate, and tattooed motorcycle chick who has dedicated her life to helping others, whether in her personal or professional life. Nothing makes her happier than hearing from her podcast listeners, so if you’re so inspired, drop an email with a suggestion for an Early Days podcast episode, feedback, or just to say hello! Contact Michal at: [email protected] Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Sobertown Podcast Zoom Discussion Groups Sobertown Podcast Resource Center Recovery Online Meetings No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What. Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!! Sobertownpodcast.com

King 13 follows up on intergenerational trauma, promotes Sober Town resources (nearly 400 podcasts and Zoom support), and shares researched reflections (not medical advice) on addressing trauma through open communication, commitment to change, and parenting with awareness. She explains adult attachment issues rooted in early neglect/abuse and outlines secure, ambivalent, avoidant, and disorganized attachment styles, plus how fears of abandonment, rejection, engulfment, vulnerability, and conflict can harm relationships. She describes trauma bonding’s seven stages, relationship red flags, codependency, and how substance use disorder affects partners and trust, offering strategies such as boundaries, self-awareness, weekly relationship check-ins, therapy, and healthier coping. He emphasizes self-love, CBT, challenging thoughts, and nervous system regulation tools like box breathing and vagus nerve practices (breathing, humming, singing, gargling), concluding with gratitude, resilience, and choosing a simple, healthy life. About The Host: Deborah Battista aka King 13 began hosting podcasts not long after Sobertown launched. With their aligned values & passion to help others, Deborah changed career paths and became a qualified counsellor & established her own practice Counselling For Wellness. Deborah credits connection & sharing with likeminded folk as the foundation to maintaining her sobriety to date. Her holistic client-centered approach, active listening, collaborating and knowledge of useful tools will help you work out the best way to handle the challenges of life & addiction. If you would like a complimentary 'get to know you' zoom email Deborah to arrange a time. Deborah.battista17 @gmail.com Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Sobertown Podcast Zoom Discussion Groups Sobertown Podcast Resource Center Recovery Online Meetings No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What. Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!! Sobertownpodcast.com

I often hear in sober meetings look for the similarities not the differences. The most common words I have heard from individuals who start a share is "I grew up in an alcoholic home". I had no idea just how many families have been affected by AUD. I have heard this statement from folks all around the globe. It is a society accepted pandemic of wild proportions. My research indicates that high numbers of families have suffered with addiction and produced generations of family members who are also affected and still suffering today. So if this topic interests you, grab a cuppa, take a listen and hopefully hear something that can help you and your families in the recovery journey. Remember you are not alone in this arena. About The Host: Deborah Battista aka King 13 began hosting podcasts not long after Sobertown launched. With their aligned values & passion to help others, Deborah changed career paths and became a qualified counsellor & established her own practice Counselling For Wellness. Deborah credits connection & sharing with likeminded folk as the foundation to maintaining her sobriety to date. Her holistic client-centered approach, active listening, collaborating and knowledge of useful tools will help you work out the best way to handle the challenges of life & addiction. If you would like a complimentary 'get to know you' zoom email Deborah to arrange a time. Deborah.battista17 @gmail.com Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Sobertown Podcast Zoom Discussion Groups Sobertown Podcast Resource Center Recovery Online Meetings No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What. Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!! Sobertownpodcast.com

In this episode of Sobertown Podcast, Misty Christmas shares her journey through addiction and recovery, highlighting key moments that led her to sobriety, including a transformative prayer experience and a decision to move to Bowling Green, Kentucky, for sober living. She describes her struggles with various substances and mental health disorders, and her eventual recovery through a combination of therapy, support groups, and personal growth. Misty emphasizes the importance of changing one's environment, seeking treatment, and finding a higher power, while also acknowledging the ongoing variable nature of recovery. She concludes by encouraging others to pursue recovery and sharing her plans to create resources to support individuals in early sobriety. Amazon: Bearing Fruit: Journal For Women #2 Facebook: Misty Christmas Author Email: [email protected] If you have an idea for an Early Days podcast episode, or would just like to say hello, please reach out at [email protected] About Michal: Michal is an American podcaster and sober warrior who believes every recovery journey is as unique as the individual traveling it. With over a decade of sobriety garnered through various recovery systems, programs, and support networks, she's passionate about breaking down stereotypes and smashing through the shame that can keep those suffering with addiction in the dark. Michal is an animal lover, rescue advocate, and tattooed motorcycle chick who has dedicated her life to helping others, whether in her personal or professional life. Nothing makes her happier than hearing from her podcast listeners, so if you’re so inspired, drop an email with a suggestion for an Early Days podcast episode, feedback, or just to say hello! Contact Michal at: [email protected] Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Sobertown Podcast Zoom Discussion Groups Sobertown Podcast Resource Center Recovery Online Meetings No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What. Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!! Sobertownpodcast.com

In this episode of Early Days, host Michal Charles welcomes Sobertown Podcast listeners and introduces Sobertown resources before focusing on difficult emotions in recovery, including anxiety, fear, and delving into the difference between shame and guilt. She explains how seemingly small setbacks can trigger intense urges to drink and shares that stress and anxiety have been major triggers for her, as they were for her birth mother. Michal notes that many who started drinking at a young age never learned healthy coping skills, and those bad patterns were then reinforced by alcohol-centered media and culture. Referencing former podcast guest Martin Lockett, she describes guilt as a potentially useful moral signal while explaining that shame fuels isolation, stigma, and relapse, arguing for compassion over judgment and emphasizing taking sobriety one day at a time. She also highlights boredom as a relapse risk and recommends new hobbies or plans to fill newly available time, encouraging listeners to be gentle with themselves. If you have an idea for an Early Days podcast episode, or would just like to say hello, please reach out at [email protected] About Michal: Michal is an American podcaster and sober warrior who believes every recovery journey is as unique as the individual traveling it. With over a decade of sobriety garnered through various recovery systems, programs, and support networks, she's passionate about breaking down stereotypes and smashing through the shame that can keep those suffering with addiction in the dark. Michal is an animal lover, rescue advocate, and tattooed motorcycle chick who has dedicated her life to helping others, whether in her personal or professional life. Nothing makes her happier than hearing from her podcast listeners, so if you’re so inspired, drop an email with a suggestion for an Early Days podcast episode, feedback, or just to say hello! Contact Michal at: [email protected] Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Sobertown Podcast Zoom Discussion Groups Sobertown Podcast Resource Center Recovery Online Meetings No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What. Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!! Sobertownpodcast.com

Sobertown Podcast host Michal interviews keynote speaker, author, and substance abuse counselor Martin Lockett, who served 17.5 years in prison after a New Year’s Eve 2003 DUI crash in Portland that killed two women in long-term recovery and severely injured a third individual. In this podcast, Martin describes early alcohol dependence, the crash, and the newspaper article about the victims that inspired him to honor their legacies through prevention and addiction work. In prison he pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a master’s degree in psychology, completed substance abuse treatment, learned the difference between sobriety and recovery, and began sharing his story through DUI victim impact panels. Upon release in 2021, he became a counselor and later a director focused on prevention and equity. Martin helped launch a “custody to counseling pipeline,” and now speaks nationally on DUI prevention, recovery, guilt vs. shame, and self-forgiveness. You can find more information on Martin Lockett's website, including links to his books Prison to Purpose Pipeline and My Prison Life: A Blogger's Insights from the Inside. https://www.martinlockett.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martinllockett?igsh=eWsyNGxqbHhsb3Nt Martin Lockett is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, substance abuse counselor, author, and nationally recognized advocate for reducing DUI fatalities. He served 17½ years in prison following a DUI-related crash that claimed two lives and permanently injured another. At his sentencing, Lockett made a solemn vow to the victims’ families and friends to devote the rest of his life to honoring their legacies by helping others confront substance use disorders and speaking candidly about the devastating consequences of impaired driving. During his incarceration, Lockett earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and a Master of Science in Psychology, obtained state certification as a substance abuse counselor, and served as a mentor and role model to fellow inmates. He is the author of two books, Prison to Purpose Pipeline and My Prison Life, and began sharing his story through DUI victim impact panels—work he initiated while still incarcerated. Since his release in 2021, Lockett continues this mission by providing counseling support for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges and sharing his powerful message of accountability, redemption, and hope at DUI victim impact panels, alcohol highway safety classes, high schools, colleges, and conferences nationwide, using his lived experience to inspire change and save lives. About Michal: Michal is an American podcaster and sober warrior who believes every recovery journey is as unique as the individual traveling it. With over a decade of sobriety garnered through various recovery systems, programs, and support networks, she's passionate about breaking down stereotypes and smashing through the shame that can keep those suffering with addiction in the dark. Michal is an animal lover, rescue advocate, and tattooed motorcycle chick who has dedicated her life to helping others, whether in her personal or professional life. Nothing makes her happier than hearing from her podcast listeners, so if you’re so inspired, drop an email with a suggestion for an Early Days podcast episode, feedback, or just to say hello! Contact Michal at: [email protected] Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Sobertown Podcast Zoom Discussion Groups Sobertown Podcast Resource Center Recovery Online Meetings

Welcome to 2026! Host Dana (Peanut) interviews Marci H, a 10-year sober recovery leader and host of "Wake Up with Marci." Marci shares her journey from a rock-bottom DUI at age 45 to finding spiritual awakening and unconditional love in sobriety. We discuss perimenopause and drinking, the difference between court-ordered and chosen recovery, and how sobriety means reconnecting with your true self. Marci reveals her daily spiritual practices and mission to help others through her books "Chaos to Clarity" and the upcoming "Wake Up, You Are Not Broken." A moving conversation about vulnerability, transformation, and the endless possibilities of sober life. Find Marci at wakeupwithmarci.com. Marci’s morning meditation to connect with Higher Power: https://youtu.be/t-3QQDfxwl4?si=tsbJ_oPsrq2qybXX

In this episode of Sobertown Podcast, host Michal aka MMC13 welcomes Dr. Amy Albright, a human potential expert and CEO of Holon, to discuss the science and transformative power of neurofeedback therapy in addiction recovery. Dr. Amy explains how neurofeedback works, its benefits for mental health and personal growth, and the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional roots of addiction. The conversation explores the role of spirituality, community, and connection in healing, as well as the challenges of overcoming shame and stigma. Dr. Amy shares insights from her clinical experience, including real-life success stories, and offers practical advice for listeners seeking transformation and support on their recovery journey. https://www.holonexperience.com/

In this powerful episode, host Peanut interviews Emma, a psychic medium and grief alchemist approaching four years of sobriety. Emma shares how she used alcohol to cope with overwhelming psychic abilities from a young age, and how sobriety became essential for her spiritual gifts to flourish. She opens up about the devastating loss of her daughter Magnolia, breaking generational patterns, and her mission to help others heal grief while living authentically and alcohol-free. Connect with Emma: Instagram @the_psychic_grief_alchemist

Join the Sobertown Podcast as host Peanut talks with author and meditation teacher Adrian van der Valk about her journey to sobriety. Adrian shares honest insights on overcoming addiction, the power of mindfulness, and building a life of purpose and “Big Sober Energy.” Discover practical tips for navigating challenges, setting boundaries, and finding hope on the path to recovery.

Join host Peanut on the Sobertown Podcast for a deeply honest conversation with psychotherapist and author Jason Shiers. Jason shares his powerful journey from childhood trauma and addiction to recovery and helping others heal. Explore the roots of addiction, the importance of addressing underlying pain, and finding peace within. Jason discusses the limitations of traditional recovery models and the value of spirituality, self-awareness, and holistic approaches to healing. Whether you're in recovery, sober-curious, or supporting someone's journey, this episode offers hope, practical insights, and a reminder that true healing comes from reconnecting with your authentic self. Learn more at Infinite Recovery Project and Sobertown Podcast.

Adi Jaffe, who shares his journey from addiction to recovery and discusses the founding of Ignited Recovery. Dr. Jaffe talks about his books, "The Abstinence Myth" and "Unhooked," and offers insights on alternative recovery paths, harm reduction, and the importance of honesty in healing.

Beth, founder of "Beyond the Bottle" TikTok, shares how growing up with an alcoholic mother who died at 49 in 2019 despite multiple rehab attempts led her to create a support community for families affected by addiction. Despite childhood trauma including instability, stigma, and having to lock her bedroom door to protect belongings from her mother's theft, Beth earned a first-class university degree and now helps others understand that addiction stems from unhealed trauma, affects entire families, and requires community support rather than judgment. Her message emphasizes that people facing trauma have two paths - seek help or self-medicate - and that recovery isn't perfect but every attempt at sobriety matters, encouraging others that their traumatic background doesn't define their future.

This Sober Town Podcast episode features Gary Menkes (19 years sober) discussing spirituality in recovery. Both Gary and host Peanut, raised Catholic, explore how surrendering to a higher power became essential to their sobriety. Gary emphasizes there's no single "right way" to approach spirituality in recovery and advocates for unity among different recovery methods. He shares his daily prayer practice and describes his transformation from expecting an early death to having more dreams and ambitions at 51 than ever before, crediting his spiritual growth and recovery work for opening doors to personal development and a purpose-driven life focused on helping others.

Kids And Sobriety is a heartfelt and honest podcast exploring the intersection of parenting and the sober journey. Whether you're newly sober, sober-curious, or maintaining long-term recovery, this podcast offers real conversations, practical tools, and shared experiences from parents who are navigating the highs and lows of raising kids without relying on alcohol or substances. From managing stress and setting boundaries to building connection and breaking generational cycles, Kids And Sobriety is your companion in creating a more present, conscious, and empowered parenting experience.

Host: Michal Charles aka MMC13 Guest: Jonathan Schwartz In this episode of Sobertown Podcast, host Michal interviews Jonathan Schwartz, former Hollywood financial advisor turned addiction advocate and sober warrior. Jonathan shares his journey from managing the wealth of celebrities like Beyoncé, Linkin Park and Alanis Morissette to battling his own addictions with gambling and drugs, which led to embezzlement of millions of dollars and eventual imprisonment. He discusses his childhood trauma, the impact of addiction on his life, and his path to redemption through recovery. Now a licensed therapist, Jonathan focuses on helping others overcome addiction by connecting with their emotions and resolving past traumas. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, accountability, and community support in achieving and maintaining sobriety. Jonathan Todd Schwartz, once a towering figure in Hollywood's elite financial circles, lived a life that many could only dream of. As a power entertainment business manager at GSO Business Management, Schwartz was entrusted with managing the wealth of some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, including Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, Alanis Morissette, Linkin Park, Halsey, and Gwyneth Paltrow. His reputation as one of Hollywood's most "trusted" financial advisors earned him the moniker "diva whisperer," a reflection of his ability to cater to the unique needs of his high-profile clients. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly perfect life, Schwartz was hiding a dark secret. Consumed by a monstrous drug habit and an uncontrollable gambling addiction, Schwartz began to embezzle millions from his clients to fund his destructive lifestyle. His double life was a carefully constructed house of cards, built on lies and deceit, which ultimately came crashing down in 2016 when Alanis Morissette discovered that Schwartz had stolen over $4.7 million from her accounts. The fallout was swift and brutal. Schwartz's crimes were exposed, leading to his arrest and subsequent conviction. The once-celebrated financial guru was now a disgraced criminal, reviled by the very industry that once revered him. His actions not only ruined his own life but also brought significant financial losses and reputational damage to GSO Business Management. But Schwartz's story doesn't end with his fall from grace. Since his release from prison in 2020, Schwartz has embarked on a journey of redemption. Sober and a co-chair of his local Gambler's Anonymous, he is determined to make amends for his past wrongdoings. Schwartz is now dedicated to proving that he is no longer the "defrauding monster" he once was, and is desperate to clear his name, particularly with his ex-wife and children, who continue to harbor doubts about his sincerity. Schwartz's life is a tale of extremes— from the heights of Hollywood success to the depths of criminal infamy. It raises the question: Can Jonathan truly change, or is this just another act in a long-running con? Schwartz's story is a compelling exploration of human nature, redemption, and the thin line between good and evil. In his own words, Schwartz acknowledges his flaws and the damage he has caused, but he remains committed to telling his story, hoping that it will serve as a cautionary tale for others and perhaps, one day, lead to his own redemption. His story is a modern-day parable, echoing the themes of the latest viral scammer tales like Inventing Anna, Tinder Swindler, and Bad Vegan—a once-in-a- lifetime narrative that promises to captivate and dominate public consciousness. Altus Rehab Instagram: @therealjonathanschwartz About Michal: Michal is an American podcaster and sober warrior who believes every recovery journey is as unique as the individual traveling it. With over a decade of sobriety garnered through various systems, programs, and support networks, she's passionate about breaking down stereotypes and smashing through the guilt and shame that can keep those suffering with addiction in the dark. Michal is an animal lover, rescue enthusiast, and motorcycle chick who loves helping others, whether in her personal or professional life. Contact Michal at:[email protected] Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Getting Sober ...Again Boom Rethink The Drink

Host: King13 Guest: Seaangell Diagnosed with ADHD Seaangell was prescribed Adderall and explains her experience with use & misuse. She requested to do this podcast to make others aware of the pro's and con's and to be mindful of what the effects can be. We also do not want anyone to feel alone. Please seek professional if you have any concerns. About The Host: Deborah Battista aka King 13 began hosting podcasts not long after Sobertown launched. With their aligned values & passion to help others, Deborah changed career paths and became a qualified counsellor & established her own practice Counselling For Wellness. Deborah credits connection & sharing with likeminded folk as the foundation to maintaining her sobriety to date. Her holistic client-centred approach, active listening, collaborating and knowledge of useful tools will help you work out the best way to handle the challenges of life & addiction. If you would like a complimentary 'get to know you' zoom email Deborah to arrange a time. Deborah.battista17 @gmail.com Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Getting Sober ...Again Boom Rethink The Drink Recovery Movie Meet-Ups No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What. Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!! Sobertownpodcast.com

Host: Drifter Guest: Mark Kneebone In this episode of the SoberTown Podcast, Mark Kneebone, a former law enforcement officer from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, shares his compelling journey to sobriety. Mark recounts his childhood traumas, struggles with alcoholism, and encounters with unprocessed trauma from his law enforcement career, including witnessing the devastation of 9/11. After a severe bout in May 2023 where he considered suicide, Mark checked into rehab and has been sober ever since. Mark discusses the therapies that helped him, like EMDR, ART, and neurotherapy, and emphasizes the importance of community, therapy, and self-compassion in his recovery. Now an advocate for mental health and sobriety, Mark hosts the Steel City Roundtable Podcast, focusing on mental health, addiction, and more. He highlights the critical aspect of talking about one's struggles and seeking help, aiming to inspire others on their path to recovery. Mark's bio: I was born In eastern Pa in the 70’s. Like everyone from that time I was raised by parents who worked hard and did their best to provide for their families. I learned at a young age to hide from my problems. Divorces, bullying, low self esteem were just some of them. I picked up my first drink at 17 and never looked back. Alcohol removed all my concerns and made me invincible. I became a hardcore drinker at 17 and never looked back, mostly because I didn’t want to see the destruction I had left in my wake. I became a police officer in 2007 at the age of 33. I thought that helping others would give me some purpose and direction. I was wrong. I lost friends, sabotaged my unhealthy marriage finally, drank every chance I got and shut out the world. I didn’t care about anything anymore. I left the department 2019 thinking that my problems would go away. After a divorce, more bad decisions and another unhealthy relationship I had enough. Drunk and depressed I loaded my off duty sidearm and sat back on the couch wanting it to end. Something was looking out for me because I passed out. Next stop Transformations Treatment Center DelRay Beach Florida. While in treatment I was diagnosed with severe depression, PTSD and anxiety. Through working an amazing program and putting my mental health first I worked on repairing the damage. Forty four days later I came home with one goal…..make it through today. I dove into my recovery and I have been sober and mentally healthy ever since. I started the Steel City Round Table Podcast as a way to deal with my own personal traumas while trying to help others who were struggling. Through this journey I have helped others and been helped by others. I have made a ton of mistakes and am now trying to make the next best decision every day. I am Mark Kneebone and I am a grateful and happy recovering alcoholic with mental health issues and a podcast lol. I hope you can take something away from my story. Spotifyopen.spotify.com/show/3nsSd8URIS2GyLEEdU5Nye Instagraminstagram.com/steelcityroundtable Facebookfacebook.com/profile.php?id=61566417114634 TikToktiktok.com/@scround_table Rumblerumble.com/user/SCRoundTable Xyoutube.com/@SteelCityRoundTable24 Web Sitesteelcityroundtablepodcast.com iHeart Radioiheart.com/podcast/269-steel-city-round-table-pod-252510321 Apple Podcastspodcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/steel-city-round-table-podcast/4a441f58-12e7-49e2-a585-777b2eb08dda More info Sign in to see email address www.youtube.com/@SteelCityRoundTable24 Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Getting Sober ...Again Boom Rethink The Drink