Second Nature

Brian McGrath, founder of Optimal Recovery Coaching Associates, shares his journey of addiction and recovery, stressing the need for new coping skills and a supportive community. He explains how coaching empowers individuals, focusing on positive coaching and healthy boundaries. McGrath discusses harm reduction versus abstinence, the impact of technology on recovery, and addressing homelessness an...

This conversation explores the journey of Kim Shingler and her husband as they navigate sobriety and support their brother-in-law's recovery from a life-threatening overdose. Kim shares the challenges they faced during this time and the decision-making process they went through. The story highlights the power of one decision and the importance of showing up for loved ones in their darkest mome...

In this conversation, Dustin Hogan, a men's mental health counselor, discusses the state of men's mental health and the trends he sees in his practice. Many men are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship challenges, and feelings of unfulfillment. Hogan emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and addressing emotional and communication issues. He explains his c...

In this conversation, Mike and Rylan discuss Rylan's journey with alcohol and sobriety. They talk about Rylan's early alcohol realization and how it affected his life as a hockey player. Rylan shares his struggles with alcohol in university and the moment of clarity that led him to quit drinking. They also discuss the importance of support and building a strong infrastructure during recove...

In this conversation, Svend Wiele discusses his upbringing in East Berlin and the impact it had on his self-worth. He shares his journey of discovering self-worth and self-love through his struggles with anxiety and depression. Svend also explores the challenges of balancing sports and personal life, the pressure of attachments in sports, and the importance of living in the moment. He emphasizes t...

This episode contains talk of suicide, alcohol and drug use. Please be mindful of your own well-being. Listeners discretion is advised. This conversation explores Matt Maleschuk's journey as a former hockey player dealing with addiction and mental health struggles. It discusses the influence of hockey culture on drinking habits, the challenges in junior hockey, and underlying issues of self-wo...

In this weeks episode I take you through a book that had a big impact on my initial days in treatment. That book being The Four Agreements, written by Don Miguel Ruiz. It is something that I never would have picked up or been able to get myself to read had I not gone. It is a light read, but makes you think - In what areas of my life could this help me?  If you are struggling with addiction, depre...

In this episode, I reflect on the benefits of sobriety, highlighting the triumphs and newfound clarity it brought. Revisiting a goal set in the early days, its achievement becomes a powerful symbol of personal growth. I calmly reassess the source of addiction, sharing insights gained from self-reflection. The podcast's origins are explored, revealing the raw emotions that fueled its creation a...

In this episode, we delve into my first days after treatment, marked by a steadfast determination to confront the world without hiding from its challenges. I find solace in a supportive community, strengthening my resolve to maintain sobriety. Amidst this pivotal period, I meet someone who will play a special role in my life. Through candid reflection, we witness the emergence of a resolute mindse...

In episode 8, I share my last days in treatment. Drawing on the collective wisdom of former residents, I find solace and inspiration. A silent retreat offers a space for quiet reflection and self-discovery. With renewed clarity, I look ahead to the real world, armed with newfound tools. The final assignment becomes a powerful testament to my growth and readiness for the next chapter. This episode...

In Episode 7, I share my candid journey through shame and guilt during treatment. Through various exercises, I found subtle yet meaningful progress. This episode offers a simple reflection on spirituality, bringing clarity to its possible significance in my life. Additionally, a fresh commitment to lifelong learning emerges as a guiding principle. Join me in this calm exploration of personal growt...

In this episode, we explore my first days in treatment, a time that defied my expectations. Emotions swirled within me, blending vulnerability with newfound strength that was slowly growing. Amidst this, I uncovered crucial insights about myself and the events that led me here. One particular moment stood out, leaving an indelible mark on my journey. Join me as we journey through those initial day...

In episode 5, I recount a transformative chapter in my journey towards sobriety. I candidly share a three-day period of solitary drinking, shedding light on the isolating nature of addiction. Amidst this struggle, I grapple with overwhelming feelings of guilt, shame, and resentment, painting a vivid picture of the emotional turmoil that held me captive. This episode offers a candid exploration of...

In episode 4, I candidly explore how addiction strained my closest relationships. I discuss the subtle signs that signaled the beginning of a rift with my dearest friends. We delve into the years of worry etched on my family's faces, and the quiet disappointment that hung in the air each time I returned home in the throes of addiction. “The Ones that Mean Most” is a reflective look at the impa...

In episode 3, we explore the concept of addiction, tracing its origins in family dynamics and early experiences with alcohol. A pivotal moment arises when a reluctant conversation during a bout of depression leads to a turning point. The narrative maintains a reflective tone, chronicling the journey from early warnings about potential alcohol misuse to the path of sobriety. This episode offers a c...

In Episode 2, we delve deeper into the heart of the struggle. As addiction tightens its grip on me, I confront some of my lowest points, grappling with uncertainty and self-sabotage. I outline what hockey had come to be in my life and how my career ended. Fear emerges as a formidable advisory, something that I will need to give in to. This episode builds on my revelation in episode 1 - the admissi...

In the first episode of "Second Nature," we dive deep into a personal narrative that sheds light on my struggles with substance abuse and my path to recovery. Join me as I recount my last night and what led me to seek help for the first time. Through this candid account, we explore the undeniable truth: sometimes, sheer willpower isn't enough. Discover the transformative power of ask...