Free Like-Me

In this compelling episode of the "Free Like Me" podcast, host Clark Fredericks dives deep into Brad Hodgins' courageous journey from the depths of addiction to the triumph of recovery. Brad speaks candidly about his battle with alcoholism and drug addiction, sharing the struggles of consuming up to two liters of vodka daily while also abusing other substances. His addiction was roo...

Second Chances: From Addict to Activist In an uplifting episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredericks delves into Tommy D's harrowing yet inspiring journey from the depths of heroin addiction to a life of sobriety and purpose. Tommy's narrative begins with his early days of underage drinking, escalating through injury-induced painkiller use, to the grip of heroin addiction....

Join us in this compelling episode of the "Free Like Me" podcast, where host Clark Fredericks sits down with former state police lieutenant Howie Ryan and another inspiring survivor to discuss their extraordinary journeys of overcoming adversity. Howie shares his dual experience of navigating the intense world of crime scene investigations and his personal battle with cancer. We also hea...

Breaking the Silence: An Inside Look at a Cult-Like Sect and Overcoming Trauma In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredricks welcomes guest Chasya, who shares her experiences growing up in a strict, cult-like Orthodox Jewish community. Chasya discusses the societal and familial pressures, the extreme measures taken to maintain modesty and control, as well as the systemic issues...

This insightful episode from the Free Like Me podcast features a compelling discussion between host Clark Fredericks, Dr. Tom Shea, and other guests on the critical topics of trauma, anxiety, and healing. Drawing from personal stories, including Clark's time in prison and Tom's experiences with panic attacks, the conversation covers the importance of confronting trauma, the challenges it...

In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredericks is joined by Eric, who shares his heart-wrenching story of losing both his parents, his two sons to tragic circumstances, and ultimately his marriage. Eric discusses the heavy toll of grief, the importance of speaking out about one's pain, and the healing power of support groups and therapy. The conversation delves into the de...

In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, Clark Fredericks hosts Annie J. , who shares her tumultuous journey from pursuing ballet in New York City to her struggles with alcoholism and subsequent recovery. Annie recounts her childhood in Michigan, her early aspirations as a ballerina, and how her life took a dark turn due to injury and addiction. She discusses hitting rock bottom, her transform...

Overcoming Addiction and Abuse: A Priest's Journey to Redemption In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredericks engages in a profound discussion with Father Robert Griner, exploring his tumultuous journey from a seemingly perfect upbringing to confronting deep-seated issues of violence, alcoholism, and the complexities of recovery. Griner candidly shares his experiences, f...

In this episode of the Free Like Me podcast, host Clark Fredericks engages in a profound conversation with Derek Pivka, a former jail guard and Clark's friend from his time in the Sussex County Jail. Derek shares his journey from working as a corrections officer, his traumatic experience of leading a search for a drowned swimmer, to his ultimate decision to leave the job for a healthier envir...

In this episode of the 'Free Like Me' podcast, Clark Fredericks hosts Michelle, a wife, mother, advocate, and a survivor of sexual abuse. Michelle shares her harrowing experiences of abuse at the hands of her stepfather and his father, the lack of support from her mother, and the profound impact this trauma had on her life, including struggles with sadness, anger, and the pursuit of heal...