Clean and Sober Radio

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund spoke with Anthony Ruggiano Jr., a former high-ranking member of the Gambino crime family who turned his life around through recovery. Anthony shared his incredible journey from a dark and dangerous past in organized crime to a life dedicated to sobriety, service, and hope. His transformation was nothing short of remarkable, proving that no matter how far one falls, recovery is possible. This powerful and inspiring conversation showed that true change can happen — even from the darkest places.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund spoke with former heavyweight boxing contender Gerry Cooney. Though he fought some of the greatest boxers in history, Cooney shared that his toughest opponent was his battle with alcohol addiction. Now with decades in recovery, Gerry discussed how service, attending meetings, and giving back to others have become the cornerstones of his sober life. His story of perseverance, humility, and dedication to helping others in recovery made this a truly inspiring and uplifting episode.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Steve Forzato. With over three decades of experience, Steve is a nationally recognized expert on the opioid epidemic who has consulted for the Pennsylvania Attorney General and Governor, investigating pharmaceutical manufacturers and the illegal prescribing of medications. He now serves as director of the Center for Addiction and Recovery Education at St. Joseph’s University. In addition to his work in addiction and recovery, Steve has been dedicated to raising awareness about the serious issue of human trafficking, a crime closely tied to drug and alcohol abuse. His insights made for a powerful and enlightening conversation.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund were joined live in the studio by Dickie Noles, relief pitcher for the Phillies’ 1980 World Championship team. Dickie shared the highs and lows of his remarkable career, including his battle with alcohol addiction that came to light in 1983. After a run-in with the law and a serious injury, he entered treatment and has remained sober since April 9, 1983. Also joining the broadcast was fellow Philadelphia Phillie Randy Lerch, making for a powerful and entertaining show filled with baseball, recovery, and hope.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund discussed the important topic of anonymity in sobriety. Listeners heard different perspectives—some who believe anonymity should always be protected at all costs, and others who feel more open about their recovery. Gary and Mark emphasized the shared agreement that no one should ever break another person’s anonymity without permission. It was a thoughtful and engaging conversation that asked the audience to reflect on their own views: what do you think?

n this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Darrell Hinton to share his powerful journey in recovery. With over seven years of sobriety, Darrell spoke about how he not only values his own recovery, but feels destined to help others achieve theirs. He founded Teach One, Feed One, an organization that provides housing, employment, and essential resources to those in recovery who need and want support. His story of transformation and commitment to giving back was both emotional and inspiring. Darrell also serves alongside Gary on the board of directors of the Montgomery County Correctional Facility, furthering his mission to make a difference.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund asked the tough question: as a society, are we losing the war on addiction and overdoses? While some reports claimed that numbers were down and treatment was more accessible than ever, Gary and Mark examined what the real data showed. They also discussed how government funding for vital services is fading, leaving countless lives at risk, and questioned where our leaders stand in this ongoing struggle. It was a powerful conversation about the harsh realities of addiction, recovery, and the fight to save lives.

On this edition of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund explored whether the recovery community can truly rely on the news for accurate statistics, resources, and information that keep us informed and safe. Together, they reviewed a variety of news articles from around the world, questioning their truth and relevance. The discussion highlighted how misleading or inaccurate reporting can harm those seeking help and distort the reality of addiction and recovery treatments—raising the important question: do we really believe everything we read?

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund paid tribute to the late Marc Willig, a beloved friend of the show and a pillar of the Philadelphia recovery community, who passed away peacefully after a lengthy battle with medical issues. Marc’s life in recovery was marked by his unwavering dedication to carrying a message of hope and resiliency to those struggling with addiction. The program also featured Steve C., who has remained clean and sober for over three decades despite enduring the unimaginable loss of two wives—one in a car accident and the other to COVID. His story of perseverance, commitment, and faith in the recovery process was both moving and inspiring.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund spoke with former District Attorney Seth Williams, the first African-American DA in both Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Seth reflected on his rise through the ranks of Philadelphia’s legal system, culminating in his role as DA, and the wrong decisions that ultimately led to his 2017 indictment on bribery and extortion charges by the U.S. Department of Justice. He shared how addiction played a role in his downfall and spoke candidly about his journey, offering an honest and revealing account of his life’s highs and lows.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Randy Lerch to the show. Randy shared stories from his fascinating Major League Baseball career, his struggles with addiction, and his diagnosis of cirrhosis of the liver caused by years of substance abuse. Now in long-term recovery, Randy has dedicated his life to helping others battling addiction. As an author and motivational speaker, he brought powerful insight, inspiration, and honesty to the conversation.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund explored the difficult but important topic of relapse. Many in recovery experience relapse at some point in their journey—whether after a week, a year, or even longer. Gary and Mark discussed why relapse happens, the common triggers that can lead to it, and how individuals can better protect themselves from falling back into old patterns. They examined whether relapse is a part of recovery or a rationalization to use again, and offered insight into prevention strategies and self-awareness tools to stay on the path of sobriety.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund spoke with Dawn, a former Air Force service member who courageously shared her story of survival. While serving our country, Dawn was sexually assaulted twice - trauma that haunted her long after leaving the military. Her pain led her into an abusive marriage, heavy drinking, multiple DUIs, jail time, and the heartbreaking loss of her children. But Dawn’s story didn’t end there. Through resilience and recovery, she turned her life around, regained custody of her kids, and now holds a stable, well-paying job. Her journey is a powerful reminder that healing is possible and that we can and do recover.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund were honored to welcome Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Kevin Dougherty. Justice Dougherty, appointed to the Supreme Court in 2001 by Governor Tom Ridge, brought decades of experience from his early days as a Philadelphia Assistant District Attorney to his leadership roles as a Judge of the Common Pleas Court, and Administrative Judge of the Family and Trial Divisions. Known for his deep commitment to protecting children, families, and the most vulnerable, especially those impacted by addiction, Justice Dougherty shared valuable insights from the bench. This rare and engaging conversation was unique opportunity to hear directly from one of the state’s highest-ranking legal minds.

On this heartfelt episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler, joined by Linda E for vacationing Mark Sigmund, welcomed retired educator, author, and devoted mother Karen Poserina-Lohr. Karen shared the devastating story of losing her daughter, Kelsey, to addiction on September 11, 2019. With raw honesty and deep emotion, she discussed the pain of that loss and how it inspired her to write "Hippie Chick," a book that honors Kelsey's life and explores the grief and resilience of the family left behind. This powerful conversation offered insight, connection, and hope to those navigating similar heartache.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund tackled a question many struggle with: “Am I really an addict, or just someone who overdoes it?” They explored the common rationalizations—“I’m just having fun,” “I can stop anytime,” “I’m not as bad as them”—that often delay the hard truths. The conversation focused on recognizing the signs of addiction, the damage denial can cause, and the moment of clarity that can lead to real change. It was a powerful and honest discussion about facing the truth and taking the first step toward recovery.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund explored the shifting landscape of drug legalization and what it means for our society—especially the recovery community. They discussed how substances once associated with incarceration and death, like marijuana and even psilocybin, are now legal in some states. The conversation raised important questions: What’s next—cocaine, heroin, fentanyl? How do these changing laws and cultural attitudes impact those in or seeking recovery? It was a thought-provoking and timely discussion about where we’re headed.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Steve Forzato, a leading expert on the opioid epidemic. With over 30 years of experience, Steve had advised Pennsylvania’s Attorney General and Governor and led investigations into pharmaceutical companies and illegal prescribing. Now Director of the Center for Addiction & Recovery Education at St. Joseph's University, he also highlighted the urgent link between addiction and human trafficking — an issue he is actively working to combat. This was a powerful and eye-opening conversation.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcomed Gary Lewis, son of legendary comedian Jerry Lewis and founder of the hit pop group "Gary Lewis and the Playboys." Gary shared his powerful and often turbulent story of growing up in one of America's most famous households. Despite the fame, privilege, and money, he reminded listeners that addiction and mental illness do not discriminate. Both father and son faced their own demons, and the combination of celebrity and personal struggle created a toxic environment. This candid conversation offered a rare glimpse into the chaotic world behind the spotlight and the road to recovery that followed.

On this episode of Clean and Sober Radio, host Gary Hendler and cohost Mark Sigmund welcome friend of the program Lou Montana. Lou is not just a friend of the show, he is an inspiration for all of us. He lives life to the fullest and appreciates it more now that he is clean and sober. There was a time where he thought he could not have fun unless he was high, but through hard work and dedication, he has proven to himself and inspires everyone else to believe that life is better sober! We do recover. We do lead happy, productive lives.