In this episode of In the Circle, we have June with us, sharing a powerful inquiry about building self-confidence and trust. She inquires: how can I be more confident & trust myself? This deeply relatable issue touches the foundation of our relationship with our inner selves. By examining feelings like loneliness and the need for self-esteem, we aim to uncover what it takes to build a confident, connected, and loving self.  June's vulnerability in discussing her fears and desire for a...

In this episode of In the Circle, we’re joined by Dorcus, who brings us an incredibly vital inquiry: How Can I Navigate Relapse Without Fear Or Shame? This normal and stigmatized phenomenon is part of most individuals' recovery journeys. We explore the traditional 12-step method that requires starting over on day one post-relapse. While this method emphasizes the importance of recognizing milestones in recovery, it can also lead to feelings of shame and guilt, which may prevent people from...

In this episode of In the Circle, we're honored to have Mark join us from Northern England, bringing a profound topic that touches the core of many recovery journeys: self-forgiveness and building genuine self-confidence. Mark inquires: How can I learn to forgive myself and be confident in my self-worth? For those of us in recovery, particularly during the early stages, the act of forgiving ourselves can seem monumental. This inability to forgive often leaves us trapped in a cycle of...

In this episode of In the Circle, we're joined by Michele, who inquires: How can I navigate the frequency of financial sobriety? This critical topic is an often overlooked aspect of recovery,  whether it's managing debt, curbing excessive shopping, or addressing gambling habits, financial sobriety speaks to our core relationship with money and the energy it represents. This conversation is essential for anyone on the path of recovery who seeks to understand the broader implications of their...

In this episode of In the Circle, I’m so delighted to field an inquiry from Megan. She asks: How can I manage my newfound energy and excitement after getting sober from cannabis? So many people don't understand the nuances of what cannabis does, and how it affects our emotional state and our brain nor do they understand the nuances of recovering from cannabis and the kinds of things that one will experience on their path of recovery from that particular substance. Megan is experiencing a...

In this episode of In the Circle, we’re joined by Reno who brings us an extremely thought-provoking question. He inquires: How is Modern Technology Affecting People In Recovery? Modern technology and social media, while useful and integrated into our daily lives, can distract us from what truly matters - being present, being conscious, and accessing your higher self. There's a growing need for us to navigate these spaces more consciously, striving for real connection over digital interaction....

In this episode of In the Circle, we are joined by Stephanie with a profound inquiry regarding the loss of her husband to addiction: How do I answer when people ask me how my husband died? How can I talk about the loss of a loved one to addiction? When we speak to people who have not been affected by addiction, they are often uncertain how to respond, and because of that, we are met with misperception and judgment. Yet there is so much more than meets the eye.  This is an episode we can all...

In this episode of In the Circle, we’re joined by Ron who brings a courageous and important inquiry to our community: What am I risking by not facing my trauma and pain? Having lost his son due to a skiing accident eight years ago, Ron has firsthand experience navigating through intense grief and loss. I think we are all intuitively aware that something negative will occur if we do not face the emotional challenges of our lives. Yet we rarely ask ourselves, what exactly am I giving up if I...

In this episode of In the Circle, I am joined by John who brings an inquiry that is so relevant to every human being: How Can I Get High in Recovery? How can we replace substance-induced highs with exhilarating experiences like outdoor adventures and meaningful activities? I cannot emphasize enough the importance of recognizing contentment, and not excitement or relief, as a foundational state in recovery. While seeking thrills is natural, these should not become new dependencies but rather...

In this episode of In the Circle, we're diving into another profound exploration of the journey of recovery. We’re joined by Connor, who inquires: Can I Live A Fulfilling Life Without The 12 Steps? This is a topic that resonates deeply with me and many of our listeners, as the 12 steps have been a cornerstone in the world of recovery. I'm particularly excited about this discussion as it allows me to reflect on my journey with the 12 steps and open up a broader conversation about what...

In this episode of In the Circle, we explore an amazing inquiry about the 12 steps from Amit. He asks: Can the 12 steps be useful for people who do not have substance use addictions? Can they be helpful for people who experience trauma, depression, or anxiety?  I credit the 12 steps with saving my life from severe drug addiction. At the same time, I feel the 12 steps are but one possible entry point to a life beyond addiction.  This thought-provoking inquiry allows us to explore what the 12...

In this episode of In the Circle, Eric joins us with a powerful inquiry about overcoming codependency, all the while shedding light on the complexity of process addictions. Process addictions, such as codependency and food addiction, are distinctive because they involve fundamental aspects of life that we can't live without. Codependency, in particular, revolves around the deep-seated human needs for love and connection, often blurring boundaries and creating challenges in relationships....

In this episode of In the Circle, I am joined by Bernice, a distinguished addiction counselor and fellow traveler in long-term recovery. She inquires: How Can I Inspire Others Into Addiction Recovery?  We dive deep into the complex world of individuals battling severe addiction issues compounded by intergenerational trauma, homelessness, and a profound sense of hopelessness. We also explore what it means to inspire recovery and hope in those who feel forgotten by society, and possible...

In this episode of In the Circle, we are joined by Elliot who asks a question that’s on everyone's mind: Is it necessary to work the 12-Step Program to reach long-term recovery? This critically important inquiry has been shared by millions of people over the last 80 years since the 12 steps first were published. Does the 12-Step Program work? We'll share our own stories while we explore this idea of long-term recovery.  Whether you're working on the 12 steps now, just curious, or anywhere in...

In this episode of In the Circle, we take a look at an inquiry I get asked the most: How Do I Get Sober? What does sobriety truly entail? By asking this question, we are looking for a way to evolve into a better version of ourselves– to let go of the old and embrace the new. In order to move towards a life filled with more love, connection, and fulfillment, we need to be honest, vulnerable, and open to change. We need to remember that momentum comes slowly and develop a one-day-at-a-time...

In this episode of In the Circle, we're going to speak about LOVE! What is love? How can we relate to it? Is there a way to cultivate it or connect with it?  Love is often confused with excitement, romance, or dependency. Love is not something that depends upon anyone else's opinion, approval, history, or mindset. Love exists as an energy in the universe. And everyone can tap into true love. The presence within you, the spirit within you, the life force within you is pure love, even if, right...

In this episode of In the Circle, we have a transformative conversation on sobriety and personal growth with Keith, who inquires: How do I fix my long-standing issues of self-discontent and low self-esteem, a cycle I’ve been trapped in for years? To truly be free from addictive behaviors, we need to start realizing our inner divinity and the power of living in the present moment. Thoughts of what might have been are unproductive and only do us harm in the end.  Adjusting perspectives and...

In this episode of In the Circle, we have the honor of hearing a powerful inquiry from Patience—How Can I Be More Grounded In The Present Moment and Not Stuck In The Past? This inquiry is crucial as it points our attention to the power of the words we choose, even the words that we direct toward ourselves. Of course, our habits of negative self-talk are the result of conditioning. We have trained ourselves into these patterns, and today we will explore ways to train ourselves out of...

In this episode of In the Circle, I have the joy of hearing from Haley today who asks an amazingly relevant question—How Do I Navigate Life As A Young Sober Person? Who is my community going to be? Who am I going to get to hang out with? Who will want to hang out with this new version of me? How do I find other people who are interested in health and wellness as a person on a path of discovery?  Stepping onto a new path of recovery can be a scary experience, but knowing that you won’t have to...

In this episode of In the Circle, we delve into the sensitive and deeply personal journey of Peter, a person in recovery who has experienced the profound loss of connection with his children. This estrangement is not a result of death but due to his children distancing themselves over the years.  This inquiry is crucial as it touches on loss, grief, self-forgiveness, and the intricate process of making amends. The journey of reconciling with the past, understanding the dynamics of...

In this episode of In the Circle, I share with you one of the most powerful stories of my life—The creation story of Recovery 2.0 and In the Circle. We're going to be looking directly at the concept of coincidence, magic, and the extraordinary moments when everything comes together. In today's episode, you'll hear about my improbable, almost impossible meeting with Guru Prem, who became my teacher and is the father of Recovery 2.0.  Because of his love, wisdom, and teachings, I was able to...

In this episode of In the Circle, I explore the theme of moving beyond addiction and thriving in all aspects of life. Addiction is a universal human experience, and everyone is on the spectrum of this journey in some way.  By using the practice of yoga and meditation, we find ourselves able to move from a state of darkness and addiction toward light, freedom, and joy—true contentment involves a life free from cravings, compulsions, and complaints. It is impossible to experience true gratitude...

In this episode of In the Circle, we go through a deep and insightful exploration of parenting in the age of technology. Our focus is on nurturing self-compassion and understanding the nuanced dynamics that shape the relationships between parents and their children, particularly in the context of screen time addiction. This episode is a beacon for parents seeking guidance on connecting with their children deeply and fostering relationships based on mutual respect, understanding, and love,...

On this episode of In The Circle, I join Anand Mehrotra from the Sattva Yoga Academy in Rishikesh, for part two of our discussion on addiction and recovery through the Yoga-Vedantic approach.  Anand Mehrotra is a world-renowned visionary master, evolutionary thought leader, and entrepreneurial and social change trailblazer. He is the founder and master teacher of Sattva Yoga and Sattva Yoga Academy.  Exploring addiction through the power of yoga leads to incredible transformations. Embracing...

On this episode of In The Circle, I join Anand Mehrotra from the Sattva Yoga Academy in Rishikesh, India, to discuss a topic I strongly believe in—addiction and recovery through the Yoga-Vedantic approach. Anand Mehrotra is a world-renowned visionary master, evolutionary thought leader, and entrepreneurial and social change trailblazer. He is the founder and master teacher of Sattva Yoga and Sattva Yoga Academy.  Amazing things take place whenever we get a chance to look at addiction through...