In this 2-part gripping episode of #FromDarknessToLife, After 5 and a half seasons, Ryan takes the hot seat to finally share his harrowing journey from the depths of addiction and a near-fatal suicide attempt to his inspiring recovery and new mission in life. He recounts the pivotal moments that led him to substance abuse, the devastating loss of his father, and the intense struggle for control. This raw and powerful story illustrates the catastrophic impact of addiction and the redemptive power of honesty, intervention, and professional help. This episode marks the return of From Darkness to Life after a hiatus and the hand-off of the show from former host Ryan to our new podcast host, Poncho Parker. #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #Inspiration #OurCollectiveJourney #FromDarknessToLifePodcast #ComebackStory
In this episode of FDTL, Ryan welcomes Nicole Obrigavitch from Saskatoon, SK. Nicole bravely shares her remarkable journey from addiction to recovery, highlighting the many "whys" that led her down this path. Her story is one of resilience and transformation, encompassing her pursuit of two degrees, law school, and the challenges of drug addiction and distribution, which ultimately led to incarceration.#MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionAwareness #IncarcerationReform #TraumaRecovery #BreakingTheStigma #SaskatoonVoices #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryJourney #ResilienceAndRedemption #OvercomingAddiction #FromAddictionToRecovery #LifeAfterIncarceration #SecondChances #WomensVoicesMatter #RecoveryIsPossible #FromDarknessToLife #OurCollectiveJourney #FDTLPodcast #OCJPodcast #RecoveryPodcast #OCJ
This week, Ryan sits down with Joe Roberts, who shares his remarkable journey from homelessness and addiction to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur and motivational speaker. For over 25 years, Joe has shared his powerful story with thousands of people in every industry imaginable.Joe opens up about his struggles with opiate addiction and mental health issues, largely stemming from childhood trauma. He recounts the pivotal moment that changed his life and set him on a path to recovery and success. From living on the streets to being featured on the cover of Canadian Business, Joe's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the belief in one's potential.Joe also discusses his mission to help homeless youth through The Push for Change campaign, where he walked across Canada pushing a shopping cart to raise awareness and funds. His efforts have inspired permanent improvements to federal programs for vulnerable children.Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, transformation, and the Power of Possible. Don't miss Joe Roberts' incredible story on FDTL! 👉 Listen now and be inspired. Explore https://skidrowceo.com/ for more Joe Roberts!
This week, Ryan sits down with the incredible Katy Margison from upstate New York. Katy opens up about her inspiring journey into coaching, where she helps busy professional women conquer their health, nutrition, and fitness goals.Katy's athletic background is nothing short of impressive, with her experience in CrossFit and her remarkable achievements in Olympic weightlifting at the national level.During the COVID-19 pandemic, Katy faced a turning point as her drinking and drug use escalated. This led to a moment of clarity and a life-changing decision to pursue a different path. On January 1, 2024, she embarked on her recovery journey, transforming her life in ways she never imagined. The gifts of recovery have enriched both her personal and professional life.Now, Katy is on a mission to help women break free from restrictive diets and the all-or-nothing mindset. Through Athena Nutrition, she empowers women to regain confidence, balance, and strength in a healthy, sustainable way.Tune in for an episode brimming with resilience, transformation, and practical advice. Don't miss Katy's powerful story on FDTL!Listen now and be inspired.Follow Katy on Instagram and TikTok: @thesoberweightlifter
In this emotional episode of FDTL, Ryan welcomes Rachel St. Jean, who courageously opens up about the devastating loss of her husband to an overdose three years ago. Rachel shares the profound impact this tragedy has had on her and her young son, offering a raw and honest account of the contributing factors that led to that fateful day.Rachel's vulnerability shines through as she discusses her grieving process, providing listeners with a deeply personal look at how she navigated the aftermath of her husband's death. She also shares the thoughtful steps she took to communicate the loss to her son in an age-appropriate manner, emphasizing the importance of honesty and emotional support.Join us for an inspiring conversation that underscores the power of sharing one's story to help others heal. Rachel's journey is a testament to resilience and the strength found in vulnerability. Don't miss this moving episode of FDTL.
In this episode of From Darkness to Life, Ryan welcomes Sanar Alixandyr, an Empowerment Coach and best-selling author of "Becoming Sanar - From Shadow to Light: A Journey of Self-Discovery." With over 35 years of experience in the Healing Arts, Sanar shares her profound journey of overcoming PTSD, depression, and eating disorders.Sanar's story is one of resilience and empowerment. She discusses the impact of near-death experiences on her life, the function and healing possibilities of PTSD, and how she helps others step into their true selves and authentic power. Her unique perspective on personal transformation and holistic healing offers invaluable insights for anyone on a journey of self-discovery.Tune in for an enlightening discussion that delves into the profound challenges of trauma and the transformative journey of healing. Sanar's wisdom and experience offer a unique perspective for those looking to transform their lives.*Please note: Due to some of Sanar's lived experiences, this episode contains graphic mentions of abuse that may be difficult for some listeners.#HealingJourney #TraumaRecovery #Empowerment #SelfDiscovery #HolisticHealing #SpiritualGrowth #PersonalTransformation #HealingArts #PTSDRecovery #QuantumHealing #EmotionalHealing #TraumaSurvivor #SpiritualAwakening #HealingJourney #EmpowermentCoach #SelfEmpowerment #MindBodySpirit #HealingTrauma #PersonalGrowth #TransformYourLife
Today on FDTL, Ryan is joined by Crystal from Oklahoma. Her story takes us through a harrowing journey - generational substance use, waves of various trauma, death of a parent, incarceration of another, and a breaking point in Alaska, where a drug-induced suicide attempt nearly ended it all.#FromDarknessToLife #OurCollectiveJourney #OCJPodcast #RecoveryJourney #HealingTogether#SubstanceAbuseRecovery #GenerationalTrauma #BreakingTheCycle #MentalHealthAwareness #SuicideSurvivor #OvercomingAddiction #Resilience#HopeAfterDarkness #StrengthThroughStruggle #SurvivorStory #SecondChances #HealingIsPossible #YouAreNotAlone
In this powerful episode of From Darkness to Life, Ryan sits down with Stacey Bleemaster, a mental health advocate, author, and licensed professional counselor. Stacey shares her deeply personal journey through bipolar disorder, clinical depression, and the struggle of living with an “as if” personality—where she felt like she was constantly performing rather than truly being herself.Through conventional treatment and unconventional healing methods, including Emotions Anonymous (a 12-step program for emotional wellness), Stacey found a path to authenticity and resilience. She opens up about reframing her experiences, embracing spirituality, and shedding the mask she once wore to fit in.Tune in for an insightful conversation on self-discovery, mental health, and the transformative power of peer support.
In this episode, Ryan welcomes Tyler Smith, a mental health advocate, Amazing Race Canada winner, and survivor of the Humboldt Broncos hockey bus crash. Tyler shares his incredible journey of turning personal tragedy into a mission of advocacy and healing.After surviving the devastating bus crash, Tyler found strength in his experiences, winning Amazing Race Canada with his partner Kat Kastner and founding the 'Not Alone Co.' clothing line to spark vital conversations about mental health. Through his public speaking and podcast, Tyler continues to make a significant impact on mental health discussions, safe spaces, and community well-being. Join us as Tyler discusses his path to recovery, the importance of mental health awareness, and how he uses his platform to create positive change.Learn more about Tyler on Instagram @smitty269#MentalHealthMatters #EndTheStigma #YouAreNotAlone #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingJourney #AdvocateForChange #FromDarknessToLife#OurCollectiveJourney #OCJ #PodcastLife #PodcastEpisode #OCJPodcast #RecoveryJourney#TylerSmith #HumboldtStrong #NotAloneCo #SurvivorStory #AmazingRaceCanada#Resilience #OvercomingAdversity #HopeAndHealing #SafeSpaces #StrengthThroughStruggle #CommunitySupport
In this powerful episode of From Darkness to Life, Ryan sits down with Brandon Chase, a resilient survivor of a life-altering impaired driving crash. Brandon shares his harrowing experience of the day that changed his life forever, leaving him with a permanent brain injury. He recounts the emotional and physical challenges he has faced since the accident and how he has found strength and purpose in advocating against impaired driving.
Welcome to Season 5!! In this episode of "FDTL", Ryan sits down with renowned mental health advocate and speaker, Allan Kehler.Allan shares his personal journey through the shadows of mental illness and addiction, revealing how he found light and purpose in the darkest of times. With raw honesty and heartfelt stories, Allan discusses the importance of vulnerability, the strength in seeking help, and the transformative power of sharing one's struggles. Allan also emphasizes how discovering and expressing one's true self can lead to empowerment and healing.Tune in to hear Allan's inspiring message of hope, resilience, and the path to a brighter future.Learn more about Allan @ https://allankehler.com/
Join Ryan as he sits down with Trevor Moore, a neurodivergent speaker, coach, and mental health advocate from Alberta, Canada. Trevor shares his unique approach to managing stress and adversity through engaging analogies, metaphors, and storytelling.This week, Trevor highlights his upcoming role as a keynote speaker at SARRCon 2024 in September in Medicine Hat, AB.Tune in to hear Trevor's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into personal growth and mental well-being. Don't miss this compelling episode of "From Darkness to Life"!Find Trevor at https://trevormoore.ca/ .Tickets to SARRCon (Southern Alberta Regional Recovery Conference) are available through https://www.ourcollectivejourney.ca/.
Join Ryan as he welcomes Andrew McKay, a Recovery and Resilience Coach with OCJ, to the show. In this episode, Andrew shares his personal journey into recovery, shedding light on the challenges he faced and the resilience he discovered. Over the past 12 years, Andrew's experiences have shaped his perspective, offering hope and inspiration to others navigating their own path from darkness to life. This inspiring episode is a must-hear for anyone looking to change the direction of their life!#FDTL #FromDarknessToLife #RecoveryJourney #ResilienceCoach #Inspiration #OvercomingChallenges #LifeTransformation #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealth #PodcastEpisode #HopeAndHealing #OCJ #LifeChange #Resilience #InspiringStories #PositiveChange #Motivation #RecoveryCoach
In this week’s installment of From Darkness to Life, Ryan welcomes long-time friend, Janna Purdy to the show. Janna candidly shares parts of her powerful story, delving into her struggles with addiction and, more importantly, her courageous journey toward recovery. Throughout the conversation, Janna reflects on the challenges she faced, pivotal moments in her life, and the support systems that played a crucial role in overcoming addiction.Perfectionism, true identity, and rigorous honesty are just a few of the areas explored in this episode. Tune in to gain insights from Janna about resilience, the significance of community, and the hope that emerges when embracing a new path.#FromDarknessToLife #RecoveryJourney #AddictionRecovery #Resilience #OvercomingAddiction #TrueIdentity #CommunitySupport #Hope #PodcastEpisode #Inspiration #CourageousStories #MentalHealth #RecoverySupport #LifeTransformation #FDTL #OurCollectiveJourney #OCJ
In this episode of FDTL, Ryan sits down with Derrick from OCJ to discuss their transformative Pathways to Recovery Community Support Meeting. They dig into the essence of the meeting, its intended audience, and its exciting transition to the virtual world for the summer.Additionally, Derrick shares the exciting news of his promotion to Community Engagement Coordinator, complementing his impactful role as a coach at OCJ.Tune in to discover how these initiatives are fostering resilience, community, and hope.Find the Pathways Virtual Meeting Link here:https://www.ourcollectivejourney.ca/programs/pathways-to-recovery#FDTL #PathwaysToRecovery #CommunitySupport #VirtualMeeting #OCJ #CommunityEngagement #RecoveryJourney #Resilience #Hope #Transformation #MentalHealth #CommunityBuilding #SupportGroups #VirtualSupport #PodcastEpisode #TuneIn #OurCollectiveJourney
Ryan sits down with Brandi in Calgary, Alberta, for a deeply moving and inspiring conversation.Brandi bravely opens up about her tumultuous childhood marked by abuse and neglect, shedding light on how these early experiences shaped her belief system and influenced the trajectory of her life. She candidly discusses her struggles with addiction, recounting the pivotal moment that sparked her desire for change.Brandi's story is a testament to hope and resilience, as she shares the steps she took toward recovery and the transformative journey that followed.Tune in to hear Brandi's incredible story of courage, vulnerability, and the unwavering resilience of the human spirit.#InspiringStories #OvercomingAdversity #Resilience #AddictionRecovery #Bravery #Vulnerability #HumanSpirit #Hope #PersonalJourney #TransformativeStories #PodcastInterview #CalgaryConversations #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealth #LifeChange #RecoveryJourney #FDTL #MedHat #Addiction
Ryan sits down with Ty Claypool, a former police officer with a story of resilience and recovery. Ty opens up about his profound journey in law enforcement, sharing raw and honest accounts of the traumatic experiences he faced on the job. The discussion delves deep into the realities of PTSD and the lasting impacts of trauma that many on the front lines endure. Ty courageously recounts his struggles and the critical moments that shaped his path to healing. Listeners will gain insight into the supportive resources and strategies Ty has utilized to overcome these obstacles and reclaim his well-being. Join us for an inspiring conversation about vulnerability, strength, and the transformative power of seeking help.#Resilience #RecoveryJourney #LawEnforcement #PTSD #TraumaRecovery #MentalHealth #Healing #PoliceStories #Inspiration #SupportResources #OvercomingObstacles #Vulnerability #Strength #SeekingHelp #TransformativePower #PodcastInterview #RealTalk #TyClaypool #FDTL #FromDarknessToLife
In this episode, Ryan sits down with TJ Sheehan from Calgary, AB. TJ, the Director of Program Delivery at On A Dime Transformations and the founder of Pivot Education and Recovery Society, shares his raw and honest story of overcoming addiction and escaping the violent world of gangs.TJ delves into the factors that drove him toward addiction and recounts the pivotal moment that ignited his transformation. Now, he dedicates his life to helping others find recovery, having established the Coastal Recovery Community in BC and working tirelessly through Pivot and On A Dime.Join us to hear about the support these services provide to individuals on their recovery journeys. Tune in for TJ's inspiring story of redemption and his mission to lead others from darkness to life. Don't miss this powerful tale of resilience and transformation.https://www.coastalrecoverycommunity.com/https://pivotsociety.ca/https://onadime.ca/#Podcast #AddictionRecovery #Transformation #Inspiration #Resilience #OvercomingAddiction #RecoveryJourney #TJSheehan #Calgary #PivotEducation #OnADimeTransformations #CoastalRecoveryCommunity #Redemption #GangReform #SupportServices #MentalHealth #RecoveryStories #Healing #PersonalGrowth
"Join Ryan on an engaging journey in the latest episode of From Darkness to Life, as we explore the uplifting story of the Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Our special guests include Willy Taillon, the visionary behind the festival and a passionate hot air balloon pilot, alongside esteemed Gold Sponsors Rhonda Hayward, a dedicated mental health therapist, and Elizabeth McNally from Medicine Hat's Real Estate Collective.Dive into the history of the Rise Up Festival and discover the winds of change that inspired Willy to take to the skies. Learn how this spectacular event, set against the backdrop of Medicine Hat's scenic landscapes, is more than just a visual feast—it's a symbol of community, resilience, and mutual support.Our sponsors share their insights on the significance of bringing people together, sparking conversations about connection, and the collective effort to rise above challenges. This episode is a beautiful reminder of the powerful bonds that lift us up and the shared experiences that keep us moving forward. It is a testament to the fact that we are not alone in this journey of life, and that the connections we make are what truly give it meaning. Take a moment to appreciate the people in your life who have been there for you through thick and thin, and let this episode serve as a reminder of how important it is to nurture and cherish those relationships. Community. Connection. Hope.Don't miss out on this high-flying episode! Tune in and be part of a resilient community soaring towards hope and unity.We want to thank Season 4 sponsor, Crosswaters Counselling Services. When you think counselling, think Crosswaters! Connect with Rhonda at www.crosswaterscounselling.ca. Visit Elizabeth at https://realestatecollective.ca and on FB, IG, and TikTok.
In this enlightening episode of "From Darkness to Life," Ryan is joined by the esteemed Ramona Big Head, a dedicated educator with over 25 years of experience and a member of the Peigan Board of Education. Ramona brings a powerful narrative to the table, delving into the historical struggles of her people. She recounts the painful legacy of residential schools, the erosion of traditional practices and culture, and the profound grief and loss that have marked her community's journey.With raw honesty, Ramona opens up about the personal tragedies she has faced, including the loss of numerous loved ones to addiction. Yet, amidst the darkness, she sheds light on how the fusion of brain science, acquired from the Alberta Family Wellness Initiative's Brain Story certification, and the revitalization of indigenous traditions have transformed the support provided to the youth within the Peigan school system.Join us as we travel from the shadows of the past into the promise of a brighter future, guided by Ramona's wisdom and the resilient spirit of her people. This episode is a testament to the power of blending modern science with time-honored wisdom to heal and uplift the next generation.We want to thank Season 4 sponsor, Crosswaters Counselling Services. When you think counselling, think Crosswaters!https://crosswaterscounselling.ca