Afleveringen
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In this poignant episode, I sat down with Brenda Daly, a licensed clinician with nearly 40 years of experience, who opened up about her deeply personal journey of loss, resilience, and love. Brenda shared the harrowing story of her son Kevin’s traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the 11 years of challenges that followed, culminating in his tragic death due to an accidental drug interaction involving fentanyl. We delved into the complexities of living with a TBI, the impact of chronic pain, and the often misunderstood relationship between addiction and traumatic injuries. Brenda also discussed her transformation after Kevin’s death, finding meaning through grief, and the power of resilience. This episode sheds light on the hidden struggles of TBI survivors and their families, and the importance of grief literacy in navigating profound loss.
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The Courageous Book Club is a space where we’re going to explore some of the most important books related to mental health, trauma, recovery, and personal growth. Whether you’re a seasoned reader or someone who prefers to listen in and learn from discussions, this series is for you.
Here’s how it’s going to work: I’ll be reading a book—annotating it, pulling out the key insights, and presenting them to you in a series of episodes. I’ll let you know ahead of time what book we’ll be covering so you can choose to read along with me. But if reading isn’t your thing, don’t worry—you can just tune in for the cliff notes and still gain all the valuable information.
Each book will be divided into parts, depending on its length, and I’ll release an episode for each part . These episodes will be packed with quotes, references, and even cross-references to other books and resources for a deeper dive. And of course, I’ll link back to relevant interviews from our past six seasons that resonate with the topics we’re covering.
My goal with The Courageous Book Club is to create a space where we can not only listen to powerful stories but also learn from them—really dig into the underlying issues and expand our understanding. Whether you choose to read the book or just listen to the episodes, my hope is that you’ll walk away with a deeper perspective and maybe even a new set of glasses through which to view the world. -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Lauren Eager shares her story of growing up with a sociopath father and a mother who committed murder. She discusses the impact of her childhood on her adult life and the importance of being kind to children. Lauren's experiences shaped her into an independent and resilient individual, but also left her with anger and sleep issues. She emphasizes the significance of having a pet and the desire to live life to the fullest. Relationships, both familial and romantic, have been challenging for Lauren, but she has found deep connections in some of them. Lauren Eager shares her experiences and journey, from modeling to starting her own agency, and how it shaped her identity. She discusses her early jobs, the influence of her grandmother, and her decision to pursue modeling. Lauren also talks about her transition into the corporate world and her mission to inspire others. She emphasizes the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and making bold decisions to change your life. Lauren's unique perspective and relentless pursuit of personal growth make her a fascinating and inspiring individual.
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Greg Shindler shares his experience of growing up in an alcoholic household and the impact it had on him. He discusses the importance of vulnerability and the power of being raw and unfiltered. Greg reflects on his journey of healing and forgiveness, as well as the coping mechanisms he developed, such as drinking and drug use. He highlights the need for self-compassion and setting boundaries as part of the healing process. The conversation explores the concept of internal boundaries and the process of owning and processing emotions. It delves into the journey of sobriety and the lessons learned along the way. The importance of community and support in maintaining sobriety is highlighted. The conversation also touches on the power of humility and the ability to surrender to obstacles and learn from them. Various strategies for managing challenging emotions and situations are discussed. In this final part of the conversation, Greg Shindler discusses the importance of self-awareness and personal growth in recovery. He shares how his sponsor helped him understand his true nature and how he could change through sobriety and working the steps. Greg also talks about the liberating experience of facing his true self and the importance of surrendering to the recovery process. He shares personal stories and emphasizes the value of humility, gratitude, and curiosity in personal transformation. Greg also discusses his work in the field of longevity and cellular medicine, highlighting the need to address functional decline and improve health span as people age.
🎧 What you'll learn:
The power of vulnerability and creating a culture of safety
Overcoming trauma and addiction
The significance of community in recovery
The role of cellular medicine and stem cells in promoting longevity
Practical tips for managing stress and improving overall health
More Information: www.GregShindler.com -
In this episode, award-winning podcast host Ashley Loeb Blassingame interviews Kaitlin Henry, who has been sober for five years. Kaitlin shares her journey from growing up in an environment where alcohol was normalized to becoming a mother and struggling with the pressures of parenthood and societal expectations. She discusses her experience with the sober curious movement, realizing that despite not having outward consequences, she continually broke promises to herself about her drinking. Kaitlin emphasizes the importance of self-care, noticing feelings, and creating healthy coping mechanisms to maintain sobriety and overall well-being.
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In this episode, Julie Reisler shares her compelling journey through a challenging childhood marked by a father's PTSD and a mother's emotional instability. Julie opens up about the impact of her parents' love and dysfunction, and how it shaped her coping mechanisms and path to recovery. Through honest reflection, Julie discusses her struggles with food addiction, the pressures of people-pleasing, and the profound realization of her parents' limitations. Additionally, Julie delves into her spiritual journey, highlighting how she found solace and healing through practices like energy medicine and tapping. Listeners will gain insight into the complexities of growing up in a chaotic environment, the importance of finding healthier ways to self-soothe and heal, and the transformative power of spiritual growth in recovery.
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In this enlightening episode of "The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast," host Ashley Loeb Blassingame sits down with Diana Zaheer, a spiritual teacher and healer with a unique background in energy work and global spiritual traditions. Diana shares her journey from seeing energy as a child to studying with spiritual teachers across Asia. They delve into the concept of the critical voice, its impact on our lives, and how to work with it to foster self-compassion and inner peace. Diana also discusses her latest project, "Over the Counter Meditations," a collection of spontaneous meditations paired with beautiful music and animations, aimed at helping people connect with their inner selves.
What the Listener Will Learn:
Diana Zaheer's background and spiritual journey
Diana’s childhood experiences with seeing energy
Insights from studying various spiritual traditions globally
Practical ways to start understanding and feeling energy and spirituality
Importance of self-compassion and inner exploration
Techniques for checking in with oneself and understanding the inner world
The concept of the critical voice and how it impacts us
Methods to recognize and work with the critical voice for personal growth
The creation process of "Over the Counter Meditations"
Combining meditation, music, and animation for spiritual learning -
Elle shares her incredible story of surviving a mass shooting at a music festival. She opens up about her adoption, the challenges she faced growing up, and the impact of the shooting on her mental health. Elle discusses her physical injuries, including being shot in the head, and the surgeries she underwent to remove bullet fragments. She also talks about the emotional journey of healing and processing the trauma, including experiencing anxiety and panic attacks. Elle emphasizes the importance of therapy in her recovery. Elle shares her experience of recovering from a traumatic brain injury and the impact it had on her mental health. She emphasizes the importance of therapy and the benefits it brought to her life. Elle discusses the challenges of having an invisible injury and the difficulty of explaining her experience to others. She talks about the changes in her life and her decision to start her own business to help others with mental health issues. Elle's message is that everyone has bravery and inner resiliency within them, and it's important to seek help and support when needed.
Takeaways
Elle shares her experience of surviving a mass shooting at a music festival and the impact it had on her life.
She discusses her adoption and the challenges she faced growing up, including feeling different and navigating her identity.
Elle opens up about her physical injuries, including being shot in the head, and the surgeries she underwent to remove bullet fragments.
She talks about the emotional journey of healing and processing the trauma, including experiencing anxiety and panic attacks.
Elle emphasizes the importance of therapy in her recovery and finding support to navigate the aftermath of the shooting. Therapy is important for everyone, regardless of whether they have experienced trauma or not.
Having an invisible injury can be challenging, as others may not understand the internal impact it has on a person's life.
Sharing one's story and experiences can inspire and help others who may be going through similar situations.
It's important to recognize and appreciate the bravery and resiliency within oneself.
Recovering from a traumatic experience can lead to a reevaluation of life and a desire to find purpose and joy.
Comparing traumas and downplaying one's own experiences is not helpful for healing and growth.
Seeking help and support is essential for navigating the challenges of mental health.
Opening up about mental health can spark meaningful conversations and connections with others.
Anxiety and preparedness can coexist, but it becomes unhealthy when it prevents a person from enjoying life.
Finding joy and pursuing one's passions can be a powerful way to reclaim life after trauma. -
In this gripping and heartfelt episode, Ashley sits down with Lindsay S to explore her harrowing yet inspirational journey through addiction, psychosis, and the path to recovery. Lindsay shares candidly about her childhood, the trauma that shaped her early years, and the intense struggles with eating disorders and substance abuse. Her story is one of resilience and hope, as she details her battles with addiction, the impact on her family, and the ultimate triumph of finding sobriety and reclaiming her life. Listeners will be moved by Lindsay's raw honesty and inspired by her unwavering determination to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
What Listeners Will Learn:
The impact of childhood trauma on addiction and mental health.
The complexities and challenges of dealing with eating disorders.
The role of family dynamics and expectations in personal development.
The experience of psychosis and its effects on daily life.
Strategies for seeking help and the importance of support systems in recovery.
The significance of comprehensive treatment programs and the 12-step process.
The emotional and psychological journey of regaining custody and rebuilding family relationships.
The importance of willingness and perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds.
The transformative power of self-forgiveness and making amends.
The potential for recovery and redemption, no matter how severe the struggle. -
In this episode, Ashley interviews Dr. Eric Arzubi, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist with a fascinating journey from finance to psychiatry. Dr. Arzubi shares his personal and professional experiences, highlighting the importance of mental health care, especially in rural communities. They delve into the challenges and nuances of mental health diagnosis, the stigma around medication, and the critical need for early intervention. The conversation also explores the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on long-term health outcomes and the potential benefits of telehealth in increasing access to mental health services.
You Will Learn...
Dr. Eric Arzubi's unique journey from finance to becoming a child and adolescent psychiatrist.
The significant impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on long-term mental and physical health.
Insights into the stigma surrounding mental health medication and how to approach it.
Differences in mental health challenges between high-pressure urban settings and rural communities.
The critical importance of early intervention in addressing mental health issues.
The role of telehealth in providing accessible mental health care, especially in underserved rural areas.
How to recognize signs of mental health issues in children and the importance of addressing them early.
Practical advice for parents dealing with their children's mental health, including the balance of medication and therapy.
Personal stories and reflections from Dr. Arzubi's practice and his own experiences with anxiety.
The benefits of using technology and innovative practices to overcome barriers in mental health care delivery.
Contact Dr. Arzubi:
linkedin.com/in/drzoobs
https://frontier.care/
https://www.instagram.com/frontier_psychiatry/
https://www.facebook.com/frontierpsych.care
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In this episode, Preston Moore joins the podcast to discuss his journey and insights on mental health, addiction, and emotional dysfunction. Preston, who recently delivered a powerful TEDx Talk, shares his perspective on the root causes of mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of addressing family dysfunction and emotional fitness. He highlights the long journey many face before receiving a diagnosis and the critical need for proactive emotional health practices. Throughout the conversation, Preston and Ashley delve into personal anecdotes, the importance of support systems, and practical strategies for fostering emotional well-being.
Bullet Points
Preston Moore discusses his recent TEDx Talk on mental health and addiction stigma.
Emphasizes the importance of addressing family dysfunction and emotional fitness.
Highlights the long average duration before mental health diagnoses (11 years).
Discusses inherited emotional rules and their impact on family dynamics.
Explores the importance of proactive emotional health practices and support systems.
Personal anecdotes on parenting and emotional health strategies.
The role of community and peer support in recovery and emotional well-being.
Practical tips for creating a mental and emotional fitness plan.
The importance of self-awareness and willingness to change for improving family dynamics. -
In this episode, we sit down with Kayli, who opens up about her childhood in Rock Springs, Wyoming, and the complex family dynamics that shaped her early years. Kayli shares her experiences growing up with a single mother, navigating life in a dysfunctional but loving home, and facing the challenges of mental health and substance abuse. As a CPS worker, Kayli witnessed the harsh realities of trauma and addiction, further compounding her own struggles with suicidality and alcoholism. Now, with 4 months of sobriety, she recounts her journey through trauma, her path to recovery, and the ongoing battle to find stability and peace. Kayli's story is a testament to resilience and the power of seeking help.
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Join me for an exclusive interview with Arlina Allen, the dynamic host of The Self Help Junkie, a podcast that delves deep into personal growth, self-improvement, and recovery. Arlina is not only a renowned certified recovery coach but also the visionary founder of Sober Life School, an innovative program dedicated to helping individuals transform their lives through sobriety. In this episode, Arlina shares her journey, insights, and the driving forces behind her passion for helping others. Listeners will gain valuable wisdom on overcoming obstacles, embracing change, and achieving lasting recovery.
In our conversation, Arlina opens up about her personal experiences with addiction and recovery, offering a candid and inspiring perspective on what it takes to rebuild a life of purpose and fulfillment. She discusses the creation of Sober Life School and its mission to provide comprehensive support for those seeking sobriety. Additionally, Arlina shares practical tips and strategies for personal development, emphasizing the importance of mindset, self-compassion, and community in the recovery journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their life, whether they are in recovery or simply on a path to self-betterment.
Links:
Sober Life School- http://www.soberlifeschool.com
Reinvent - Self Esteem Course http://www.selfesteemcourse.com
Podcast http://www.odaatchat.com
Social Media:
Facebook Page: facebook.com/odaatchat
Instagram: @odaatpodcast @arlinaallen
Recovery podcast
Arlena Allen
Sobriety journey
Overcoming alcoholism
Self-worth and recovery
Sober Life School
Reinvent self-esteem
End self-sabotage
Certified recovery coach
Long-term sobriety -
In this captivating episode of "The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast," host Ashley Loeb Blassingame interviews Grammy-winning composer and board-certified music therapist Brendan Berry. Brendan recounts his incredible transformation from a punk rock bassist to a leading figure in music therapy and mental health advocacy.
Struggling with social anxiety and addiction, Brendan found solace and healing through music. His journey led him to not only overcome his personal challenges but also to achieve professional success and recognition.
Throughout the episode, Brendan discusses the therapeutic power of music, sharing how it played a crucial role in his recovery. He provides valuable insights into the intersection of creativity and mental health, highlighting the importance of using one's passion as a tool for healing.
Listeners will be inspired by Brendan's resilience and dedication, learning how music can serve as a powerful means of overcoming adversity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health, music therapy, and the incredible stories of those who turn their lives around against all odds.
Tune in to hear Brendan Berry's story of redemption, recovery, and musical triumph. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the healing power of music and the inspiring journey of a true artist and advocate.
Grammy Interview with Brenden Berry
MusiCares -
In the podcast interview, Samantha Lander shares her journey through substance abuse, recovery, and personal growth, revealing her early struggles with addiction that began in her youth in St. Louis, Missouri. Despite an outwardly ideal childhood, her life was fraught with emotional neglect, leading to early substance use and later complications like infertility treatments that deepened her dependency. Her addiction resulted in a prison sentence and ongoing battles with sobriety, particularly challenging as she navigated a toxic marriage and motherhood, highlighting the deep emotional work necessary for stable recovery.
Samantha also discusses her efforts to rebuild her life after addiction, focusing on the importance of community support and personal resilience. She leverages her platform through initiatives like a significant sober giveaway on Instagram to connect with others in recovery, while juggling her role as a fitness trainer. Her story underscores the complexities of integrating recovery with personal and professional life, emphasizing continuous effort in maintaining sobriety and pursuing personal growth amidst the challenges of rebuilding relationships and managing a business.
Samantha Lander: @seefitliving
Podcast Instagram: @couragetochange_podcast
Want to connect with the host, Ashley Loeb Blassingame? : @ashleyloebblassingame
Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to apply! -
In this enlightening episode, join our host as they delve into the revolutionary world of Bright Line Eating with Susan Peirce Thompson. Discover why traditional weight loss strategies often fail and how thousands have found lasting success beyond mere willpower. Susan shares her gripping personal journey from battling various addictions to achieving sobriety and becoming a neuroscientist. Learn about the Susceptibility Scale—a pivotal tool in Bright Line Eating that reveals how your brain may be hindering your weight loss efforts. If you’re scoring high, it’s not just about calories; it’s about reprogramming the brain. Tune in for an episode filled with humor, insight, and inspiring stories that could change the way you think about dieting forever.
Bright Line Eating: www.brightlineeating.com
Bright Line Eating: @brightlineeating
Susan Peirce Thompson: https://www.susanpeircethompson.com/
Podcast Instagram: @couragetochange_podcast
Want to connect with the host, Ashley Loeb Blassingame? : @ashleyloebblassingame
Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to apply!
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Welcome Back to The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast! Season 6 Begins
In this special mini episode, I’m excited to share some major updates and the new direction for The Courage to Change podcast as we launch into Season 6. After a much-needed longer break, I’m back, but this time, I’m flying solo. I'll dive into why I've taken this new journey without my usual team.
Big Changes and New Beginnings:
After 14 incredible years, my journey with Lionrock Recovery, the company I built with my co-founders, has come to an end. It’s been sold to a fantastic organization that’s set to take it to new heights.
With the transition, I’ve taken The Courage to Change with me, stepping out like a baby bird from the nest, ready to navigate the world of podcast production on my own.
What’s Next for The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast?
Episodes will now be released every Wednesday. Mark your calendars to catch every update and story we're eager to share.
As I take on the helm of production single-handedly, I'm also funding the podcast personally. Your support means more than ever.
How You Can Support C2C:
Share the podcast with friends to help us gain more traction.
Leave a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Consider making a donation to support production costs at ashleyloebblassingame.com by clicking on "donate."
Special Mention:
For those interested in production insights or producer consulting, feel free to reach out to our former producer, Scott Drochelman, who is now pursuing other ambitious projects.
Thank you for sticking with us through these transitions. I’m thrilled to embark on this new season with you all! -
As we bid farewell to Season 5 of The Courage to Change, join Ashley and Producer Scott as they ring in the new year. Get ready for a New Year's rap, Jamaican Merlins, The Courage to Change Awards, glimpses into 2024 dreams, and a New Year's party that doesn't require you to leave your house. Put on your finest attire and stop by our place as we close out 2023.
Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey?
Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use.
Already in recovery, find an online support community.
Connect with The Courage to Change
Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast
Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast
YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast
TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame
Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast
Lionrock Resources
Nurses Program | lionrockrecovery.com/programs/nurses
Lionrock Recovery | lionrockrecovery.com
Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings -
Hilary Phelps was an overachiever from the beginning. She was a straight “A” student and the fastest swimmer in the country for her age group, until the age of 14, when she took her first sip of alcohol. From that moment, she was hooked and spent the next 15-years drinking, and feeling empty, lost, and hopeless.
At 29, Hilary checked herself into rehab for substance use disorder. It wasn’t just about putting down the drink, but about changing people, places and things in her life that ultimately caused her to use in the first place.
Hilary kept her recovery and sobriety quiet until recently when she celebrated 15-years of continuous sobriety in June 2022. It was then she realized “we’re only as sick as our secrets” and decided to share her story. It was then she realized her mission and purpose wasn’t to stay quiet, but to help those healing in private by sharing her recovery and healing journey out loud.
Hilary is a speaker, an addiction recovery advocate, writer, and holistic wellness coach. Her mission and purpose is to help other women find their voice and heal from anything that is holding them back from finding their purpose.
Tune in to Learn About
Early Achievements: Discover Hilary's early success as a straight "A" student and the fastest swimmer in the country until the age of 14, when her life took a drastic turn after her first sip of alcohol.
15 Years of Struggle: Follow Hilary's 15-year-long battle with alcohol, during which she felt empty, lost, and hopeless. Explore the challenges she faced and the impact of substance use on her life.
15 Years of Sobriety: Hear about Hilary's decision to keep her recovery and sobriety private until she celebrated 15 years of continuous sobriety in June 2022. Understand the realization that led her to share her story and break the silence.
Mission and Purpose: Explore Hilary's mission and purpose, which evolved from staying quiet about her recovery to actively helping others healing in private by openly sharing her recovery and healing journey.
Empowering Women: Delve into Hilary's commitment to empowering women, guiding them towards healing from anything that holds them back from realizing their purpose.
To find other similar episodes by topic, click here.
Connect with Hilary
Website | hilaryphelps.com
Instagram | @hilaryphelps_
Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey?
Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use.
Already in recovery, find an online support community.
Connect with The Courage to Change
Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast
Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast
YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast
TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame
Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast
Lionrock Resources
Nurses Program | lionrockrecovery.com/programs/nurses
Lionrock Recovery | lionrockrecovery.com
Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings -
Brendan Berry grew up feeling uncomfortable in his body. Anxiety and suicidal thoughts came early and he found himself in many situations where he felt like an outsider. He excelled in sports, but even that seemed to take him away from his peers as his skills meant he was asked to play at higher levels with older kids. When hazing in sports began, he left the group and began hanging out with the kids who drank and used. He began waking up in the night to drink vodka after his parents went to sleep.
His grades tanked at one point dropping as low as a .56 gpa. He became disheveled and wore the same clothes everyday. His relationship with his parents unraveled to the point where they told him they were sending him away to Cedar’s Academy. There he witnessed or experienced mental, physical and sexual abuse. When he finally escaped the situation he hit the bottle as hard as he possibly could.
As his drinking and using escalated, a dream remained of finding a career in music. He found a way into music school but only lasted a semester and half before he ODed and ended up in the ICU in a coma with a ventilator.
The use didn’t stop there. What followed was rehab, relapses, and finally lasting recovery. With recovery came a life he’d always dreamed of. Getting back into music school, making music for film and television and even winning a grammy.
Today Brendan works for MusicCares which works to provide Mental Health & Addiction Recovery Services, Health Services, and Human Services for people in the music industry.
Tune in To Learn About
Early Struggles with Mental Health: Discover Brendan's early challenges with anxiety and suicidal thoughts, creating a sense of discomfort in his own body. Explore the situations where he felt like an outsider, exacerbating his feelings of isolation.
Traumatic Experiences at Cedar’s Academy: Learn about Brendan's traumatic experiences, including witnessing or experiencing mental, physical, and sexual abuse at Cedar’s Academy. Understand the profound impact this had on his mental health and addiction struggles.
Rehab, Relapses, and Lasting Recovery: Explore Brendan's journey through rehab, relapses, and ultimately achieving lasting recovery. Witness the challenges and triumphs along the way that shaped his path to sobriety.
Dreams Fulfilled in Recovery: With recovery came the realization of Brendan's dreams, including getting back into music school, creating music for film and television, and even winning a Grammy.
To find other similar episodes by topic, click here.
Connect with Brendan
MusicCares | musicares.org
Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey?
Complete this form to speak confidentially with an admissions counselor for help and guidance or take the self assessment to evaluate your own substance use.
Already in recovery, find an online support community.
Connect with The Courage to Change
Podcast Website | lionrock.life/couragetochangepodcast
Podcast Instagram | @couragetochange_podcast
YouTube | The Courage to Change Podcast
TikTok | @ashleyloebblassingame
Podcast Facebook | @thecouragetochangepodcast
Lionrock Resources
Nurses Program | lionrockrecovery.com/programs/nurses
Lionrock Recovery | lionrockrecovery.com
Support Group Meeting Schedule | lionrock.life/meetings - Laat meer zien
