Podcast by Christopher White and Max Thomas
20 January 2025
The discussion emphasises the importance of behavioural change in recovery, highlighting that it requires more than just apologies. Genuine actions that rebuild trust and relationships are essential for true growth. Recovery is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey, where consistent self-reflection and personal development play a vital role in maintaining progress. Letting go of resentment and embracing forgiveness is also key, as it opens the door to healing not only for oneself but also for those affected.
Guest Darren shares an inspiring account of his journey through addiction recovery. He explains how honesty, spirituality, and fellowship became pillars of his transformation. Reflecting on the challenges he faced, Darren delves into the significance of prayer and meditation as tools for growth and self-discovery. He also highlights the power of sharing experiences with others, fostering connection, and planting seeds of hope in those on a similar path.
The episode culminates in a powerful realisation: recovery is a lifelong process of self-discovery, connection, and purposeful living. By helping others and embracing personal growth, individuals can achieve a profound shift in perspective and a renewed sense of purpose.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating recovery or supporting a loved one on the journey. It’s filled with actionable insights, heartfelt stories, and a message of hope and resilience.
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02:08:58
13 January 2025
In this insightful episode, we explore the transformative journey of the 12-step recovery process, offering a compassionate and structured path to healing. We are joined by friend of the podcast, Darren S, who brings his personal experiences and unique perspective to the discussion.
The journey begins with Step One, where the crucial realisation of powerlessness over addiction and the unmanageability of life lays the foundation for change. Darren shares his thoughts on the hidden struggles of functioning addicts and the pivotal moment of acknowledging the need for help.
In Step Two, we discuss the importance of believing in a higher power, which can restore a sense of sanity and hope. Building on this, Step Three emphasises the necessity of turning one’s will and life over to this higher power, fostering trust and surrender.
Moving deeper, we explore Step Four, a moral inventory process that requires honesty and introspection. While this step can be an emotional rollercoaster, it is also a critical moment for identifying personal flaws and uncovering the roots of dysfunction. Darren shares his own experiences of tackling this challenging yet rewarding step. This is followed by Step Five, which highlights the liberating act of sharing our wrongs with others, breaking the chains of isolation.
The podcast continues by exploring Steps Six and Seven, which focus on acknowledging character defects and humbly asking for help to address them. These steps remind us that imperfection is a shared human experience and that humility is a strength, not a weakness.
Finally, we discuss the role of service in recovery. Helping others not only enhances personal growth but also underscores the importance of community and connection in the healing process. The episode concludes by affirming that dysfunction is a common aspect of life, extending beyond addiction, and that recovery is a journey of continuous action, self-awareness, and service.
Whether you're navigating recovery or seeking to understand the transformative power of the 12 steps, this episode—featuring Darren S's heartfelt insights—offers practical wisdom and inspiring reflections to guide listeners.
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01:19:58
06 January 2025
In this compelling episode of Addicted to Recovery, hosts Chris and Max sit down with their close friend Albion, who shares his experiences and reflections as someone who has been five years sober. The conversation delves into the emotional and practical challenges of recovery, touching on themes of growth, gratitude, and the power of vulnerability.
Albion opens up about the emotional awareness that sobriety has brought into his life, including confronting feelings of envy, jealousy, and other defects of character. He reflects on how recovery has reshaped his relationships, making open communication and authenticity essential tools for connection. The trio also discusses parenting in recovery, emphasising both the struggles and the deep rewards of being a present and engaged parent.
Throughout the episode, Chris, Max, and Albion explore the importance of fellowship and how gratitude can be a transformative force in combating negative emotions. Albion’s insights highlight how embracing vulnerability can lead to deeper connections and a more balanced life.
This episode is a candid, inspiring look at the ongoing work and self-discovery that define a life of sobriety. It’s a testament to the power of recovery to transform not just the individual but the relationships and fellowship around them.
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01:14:22
30 December 2024
In this compelling episode of Addicted to Recovery, hosts Chris and Max sit down with Danny Hunt, ex-professional boxer, whose story of resilience and transformation shines a light on the complexities of addiction and recovery. From his formative childhood experiences to the pressures and triumphs of a promising boxing career, Danny opens up about the challenges that led him to substance abuse and the pivotal moments that guided him toward recovery.
The conversation explores the deeply personal nature of healing, touching on themes like the significance of fellowship, the courage found in vulnerability, and the ongoing work required for personal growth. Listeners will hear about the role of support groups, the importance of honesty, and how understanding mental health conditions like ADHD can be instrumental in recovery.
Through his story, Danny reminds us that recovery is a lifelong commitment, requiring daily effort, self-awareness, and meaningful connections with others. This episode is a heartfelt testament to the power of resilience and the importance of building a supportive fellowship on the path to healing.
Join Chris and Max for this inspiring discussion that underscores the message: recovery is not just a destination—it's an ongoing journey.
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01:14:17
23 December 2024
In this episode of Addicted to Recovery, hosts Christopher White and Max Thomas explore the unique challenges of staying sober during the holiday season. Before we dive in, we’d like to apologise for the poor audio quality in this week’s episode due to a technical difficulty – thank you for your patience and understanding.
Drawing on their personal experiences with addiction at Christmastime, Christopher and Max share practical strategies for maintaining recovery, from building new, alcohol-free traditions to staying grounded. They also delve into the vital role of fellowship and offer advice on helping others who may be struggling during this festive yet often challenging period.
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40:08
16 December 2024
In this powerful episode of Addicted to Recovery, we sit down with Dean to discuss the complexities and transformative journey of recovery. Together, we explore how recovery is not just a one-time decision but a daily commitment that thrives with the support of fellowship.
Dean sheds light on how addiction often roots itself in family dynamics and the absence of nurturing environments. By understanding the science behind addiction, individuals can gain valuable insights that help shape their recovery journey.
One of the key takeaways is the necessity of surrendering to the process—accepting help and trusting the path to healing. Dean also draws attention to the often-overlooked struggle of food addiction, highlighting its parallels to substance addiction.
Throughout the conversation, we emphasise the vital role of a strong fellowship. From personal growth that emerges through adversity to the fellowship that offers belonging and shared understanding, fellowship stands as a cornerstone of recovery.
Dean reflects on how examining past experiences provides clarity for current behaviours, fostering self-awareness and growth. Ultimately, the episode concludes with an inspiring message: love and connection are not just crucial for recovery—they are essential for building a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Tune in to Episode 47 for an honest, heartfelt, and enlightening discussion about what it takes to reclaim your life and thrive in recovery.
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01:04:27