The Addicted Mind Podcast

Discover a more empathetic approach to addiction care with Ian McLoone, a therapist whose personal battle with substance use offers a unique and insightful perspective. Throughout this discussion, Ian brings forth the importance of understanding the complex humanity behind addiction, advocating for personalized treatment plans that go beyond the traditional one-size-fits-all mentality.  Ian shares...

Today's episode of Addicted Mind Plus is a game-changer for anyone feeling stuck in their journey toward sobriety. Hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive deep into the world of cognitive distortions - those tricky thought patterns that keep us from achieving our fullest potential and lock us in cycles of addiction. They shine a light on the top seven distortions, from all-or-nothing thinking to perso...

Discover resilience and hope as Chris Dreisbach takes us on his harrowing yet uplifting journey from heroin addiction to recovery and entrepreneurial triumph. His narrative illuminates the power of a compassionate justice system and the profound influence it had on his life, leading him to establish sober living homes and the Second Chance PA program. It's not just Chris's story that will captivat...

In this episode of TAM+, hosts Duane and Eric delve into the concept of rumination, shedding light on its impact and providing practical strategies to navigate it. They define rumination as repetitive thought patterns, often negative, that loop incessantly in our minds. Through insightful conversation, they dissect different types of rumination, such as brooding, intrusive, reflective, and deliber...

Embark on a transformative journey with Jason VanRuler, a therapist who's turned his own battles with trauma and addiction into a roadmap for healing. Together, Duane and Jason unravel the profound impact of rewriting our inner narratives, a process that Jason has not only lived but also lays out in his latest work, "Get Past Your Past." His story is a testament that even the deepest wounds can le...

This episode dives into the Stages of Change Model, a powerful tool for understanding and navigating personal growth. Hosts Duane and Eric explore the six stages: pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and relapse. They emphasize the model's humanistic approach, acknowledging that change is a non-linear journey with room for setbacks and restarts. Learn how to identify...

Embark on a transformative journey through the landscapes of hope and despair with the esteemed Robert Hilliker, whose expertise in addiction and mental health frames our latest episode. Discover the vital role hope plays in recovery, and how it intertwines with the darkest moments to create a fertile ground for growth. With Robert's guidance, examine the genetic and environmental threads that wea...

Are you feeling stuck or uncertain about your next steps after achieving sobriety? In the latest episode of "The Addicted Mind Plus," hosts Duane Osterlind and Eric Osterlind dive into this crucial yet often overlooked aspect of recovery. They explore four foundational pillars designed to guide you towards a fulfilling life beyond sobriety. This episode is a treasure trove of personal insights and...

The moment Meridee Hlokoff realized she'd driven hours without the faintest whisper of a craving was nothing short of miraculous. In this episode, Meridee recounts her incredible transition from a habitual smoker to a smoke-free champion, all thanks to the somewhat mystifying world of cold laser therapy. The conversation peels back the veil on addiction, examining how deeply physical cravings and...

Do you want to improve your emotional regulation and decision-making? I will be sharing the key to achieving greater emotional control and better choices. Learn the secret to enhancing your ability to manage your feelings and make sound decisions. Discover the solution to experiencing improved emotional regulation and better decision-making in your life. Download the “Distinguishing between Primar...

Unlock the secrets of biochemical restoration with Joseph Eisele, a true authority on the subject, as he joins us to shed light on the profound connection between our body's chemistry and the road to recovery from addiction. Joe's poignant narrative of his own battles with social anxiety and addiction, sparked by an early encounter with codeine cough syrup, sets the stage for a riveting discussion...

Join us on an inspiring journey with "The Addicted Mind Plus," a podcast series hosted by Duane Osterlind, alongside his brother Eric Osterlind, a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This series, crafted with heart and expertise, offers a beacon of hope and practical guidance for those navigating the path of addiction recovery. In each concise 15-minute episode, we delve into si...

Patients with substance use disorder have every right to be pregnant and have children as much as anyone else. Some people look at it as being irresponsible but who are we to judge? In fact, our guest today explains how certain medications for substance use disorders could have played a part in improving the hormonal milieu of patients enough that a pregnancy might occur. On this episode, Duane sp...

Embark on a powerful journey with Marci Hopkins, renowned TV host and recovery expert, as she shares the raw and transformative story of her battle with alcoholism and her road to clarity and purpose. With eight years of sobriety under her belt, Marci talks candidly about the trials of navigating a childhood mired in trauma and addiction and how the pressures of her dream job in the limelight only...

Unlock the secrets to transforming your business into a haven for employee well-being with insights from Cheryl Brown-Merriwether, a trailblazer in marrying corporate HR with addiction recovery education. As we navigate the post-pandemic world, Cheryl lays out the stark realities and innovative solutions needed to foster recovery-friendly workplaces. This episode is a beacon of hope for businesses...

There are a lot of negative consequences that can come from behavioral addictions. They include everything from financial problems to legal repercussions to health issues. Whether it’s gambling, gaming, sex, or pornography, it’s important to understand why some people are susceptible to certain behaviors. In fact, the same mechanism that influences chemical addiction could be responsible for behav...

In a world grappling with addiction, every pathway to recovery is sacred. As we navigate the tumultuous terrain of our own recovery, we find solace and strength in shared stories.  Such as this journey of transformation and discovery by Dr. Michael Gordon, author of "The 12-Step Pathway: A Heroic Journey of Recovery." With insights gained from personal experience and expertise, Michael explores th...

What if the solution to America's opioid crisis is right under our noses, but fear and misinformation are keeping it out of reach? In today’s episode, Duane speaks with Dr. Arun Gupta, a primary care physician and addiction doctor, and they tackle the question head on.  Dr. Gupta brings his wealth of on-the-ground experience to light the reality of addiction and the urgent need for change. From th...

Are you ready to challenge your preconceived notions about addiction? What if we told you that addiction is not just about behavior, but it significantly impacts one's identity? See addiction in a whole new light after listening to Duane’s conversation with Dr. Paula Hall, a highly esteemed sexual and relationship psychotherapist. Dr. Hall brings her vast experience to the table, opening up about...

Do we truly understand substance use disorder? How can we dismantle the barriers to treatment? Join this latest episode with Duane as he interviews Susan Herrick and Dr. Arun Gupta tackle the stark realities of substance use disorder.  Susan, a mother turned advocate, opens up about her son Luke's poignant battle with addiction, underscoring the heartrending struggle to access effective, science-b...

When you're grappling with life's toughest struggles, it can be incredibly hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Our guest, Halima Anderson, knows this all too well. As a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), Halima faced the challenges of alcohol addiction and survived an abusive relationship. Yet, through these trials, she discovered her true self and the strength within. Her candid narration...

Are you hesitant to confront the unseen impacts of sexual trauma? Are you unsure about how to navigate sexual health and reclaim your pleasure? Armed with insights from Dr. Holly Richmond, a somatic psychotherapist, licensed marriage and family therapist, and certified sex therapist, we venture into an enlightening journey of discovery and healing. Together with Dr. Richmond, we demystify the prof...

Have you ever wondered how a person can turn adversity into triumph, and then use their victory to uplift others? Today’s today, Randall Bowman, has an incredible story of resilience that you cannot miss. An Indigenous business owner, woodworker, and a living testament to the power of recovery, Randall takes us on a journey from his near-fatal car accident and addiction battles to his awe-inspirin...

What does it take to overcome life's grueling trials? On today’s episode, Duane sits down with Todd Crandell, an elite athlete and founder of Racing for Recovery, who transformed his life's trajectory by battling and conquering addiction. Discover the powerful tools of mindset as Todd shares his journey from the depths of addiction and trauma to a thriving life, fueled by compassion and commitment...

Why is addiction so hard to control? Does that mean addiction can’t be treated? On today’s episode of The Addicted Mind Podcast, Duane talks to Dr. Paul Kaloostian.  Dr. Paul Kaloostian is a neurosurgeon in Los Angeles as well as an author. His books include The Young Neurosurgeon: Lessons from My Patients and two different poetry books, From The Eyes Of A Doctor and My Surgical Cases Told In Poem...