Michael’s life took him across the world — from New Jersey to Puerto Rico to Hong Kong — but addiction followed no matter how far he ran. Despite a strong upbringing and early success in sports, Michael began drinking at 12 and was addicted to heroin by 18. After leaving college and cycling through rehab, he built a successful career in shipping and logistics. On the outside, life looked stable — but addiction pulled him into street life, homelessness, and a near-fatal overdose. What followed was a brutal turning point. Michael survived 70 days of drug-induced psychosis, entered sober living, attended 180 meetings in 90 days, completed all 12 steps, and rebuilt his life from the ground up. Starting with nothing — even cleaning toilets just to survive — he slowly reclaimed structure, dignity, and purpose. Today, Michael is a certified alcohol and drug counselor, the owner of The Hope Experience, LLC, and is opening a sober living home dedicated to helping others find recovery and meaning. This episode of Primary Purpose with Pej is about humility, perseverance, and the courage it takes to start over — one day at a time. Subscribe for more real stories of recovery, resilience, and purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today on Primary Purpose with Pej, we sit down with a man whose life’s work has quietly transformed tens of thousands of lives — long before addiction medicine was respected, understood, or widely practiced. Dr. Faried Banihamd began his career in academic emergency medicine, teaching and researching at UCLA/Kern Medical Center and later UC Irvine. But despite a prestigious path, his true calling led him somewhere far more difficult and far more meaningful: directly into the world of addiction. He stepped into methadone clinics, detox centers, outpatient programs, and some of the most underserved and complex cases imaginable — years before harm reduction or medication-assisted treatment were accepted, and long before benzo tapers or polypharmacy management became common practice. Patients call him a magician — not because he performs miracles, but because he listens, observes, and treats people who have been dismissed elsewhere. Over the course of his career, he has helped more than 80,000 patients navigate addiction, trauma, medication mismanagement, and the long road back to hope. Today, he runs Zephyr Medical Group in Orange County, continuing his mission to serve the underserved, consult on high-complexity cases, train institutions, work with legal teams, and design private detox and rehabilitation plans for patients around the world. In 2017, he was named one of Orange County’s Top Influencers, recognizing the impact of his work on individuals, families, and systems across the globe. Guided by the St. Augustine quote he lives by — “Hope has two beautiful daughters; their names are Anger and Courage” — Dr. Banihamd’s story is one of purpose, compassion, and the courage to fight for a better way forward. Please welcome to the show: Dr. Faried Banihamd, MD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, licensed psychotherapist Dr. Vicky Truong, LMFT, Ph.D. breaks down what it really looks like to heal generational trauma — not just in her clients, but in her own life. Based in Tustin, CA, Vicky specializes in trauma and couples therapy for adult children of immigrants, helping people navigate the emotional, cultural, and relational wounds passed down through generations. She’s certified in EMDR for PTSD and acute trauma, works as a 730 child custody evaluator, and serves as a forensic mental health consultant in high-conflict family cases. Vicky also shares her personal journey: 13 years of sobriety Raising her 10-year-old daughter Healing her own childhood wounds Balancing recovery with a demanding therapy practice What breaking generational cycles looks like from the inside This episode is raw, eye-opening, and deeply human — offering real insight into trauma, healing, sobriety, family systems, and the work required to build a new legacy. 👉 Watch now to see what breaking generational trauma truly looks like — in real life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on Primary Purpose with Pej, we sit down with Freeman Palmore — a man whose life is living proof that redemption is real and recovery is possible. Once a promising athlete, Freeman’s world was shattered after the sudden loss of his father. What followed was a long descent into addiction, isolation, and self-destruction — until one day, he made the choice that changed everything. Now, with over 23 years of continuous sobriety, Freeman has turned his pain into purpose, dedicating his life to helping others find healing. From sponsoring men in recovery to guiding families through interventions, his story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the human spirit’s capacity for change. This episode isn’t just about surviving addiction — it’s about becoming the person you were meant to be after the fall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Meet Charlie Engle — the man who ran across the Sahara Desert, climbed ice-covered volcanoes, swam with crocodiles, and even served time in federal prison. But his hardest race isn’t measured in miles — it’s the one he runs every single day. In this powerful episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, Charlie opens up about the challenges that shaped him, the humor that saved him, and how he turned pain into purpose. From impossible adventures to life-changing lessons, his story reminds us that resilience, laughter, and purpose can carry us through anything. 💬 Charlie says it best: “I’m an addict who runs. And I’m a runner who writes.” This conversation dives into: Finding purpose through endurance and discipline The mindset behind surviving the impossible How humor can save you in your darkest moments Turning an obsessive nature into a superpower for good Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, Paula shares her incredible story of resilience and recovery. Once a sober stripper who helped women escape addiction and prostitution, she opens up about her journey in Portland’s underground scene — and the misconceptions that come with it. From breaking stigmas to building community, Paula’s honesty sheds light on an industry often judged but rarely understood. She reminds us that compassion and recovery can come from the most unexpected places. Join Pej and Paula for a raw, heartfelt conversation about addiction, identity, and the fight to be seen. 🎧 Watch now to experience what it truly means to find purpose through pain — and to stand up for those who feel invisible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s episode is one of the most emotional and personal conversations I’ve ever shared. For the first time, I’m sitting down with the person who knows my story better than anyone — my mom. Together, we talk about the years of heartbreak, fear, and hope our family went through as I battled addiction and found my way back to life. She watched me lose everything, and she also watched me rebuild from nothing. Her strength, boundaries, and faith carried me when I couldn’t carry myself. This episode isn’t just about addiction or recovery — it’s about the unconditional power of a mother’s love, the beauty of forgiveness, and the grace of second chances. If you’ve ever loved someone who’s struggled, or if you’ve ever needed someone to believe in you when you couldn’t believe in yourself — this one’s for you. 👉 Subscribe for more stories of purpose, healing, and redemption. 🎧 Watch every episode of Primary Purpose with Pej — new episodes weekly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this powerful return to Primary Purpose with Pej, Sam Davis shares his remarkable journey from addiction and family chaos to a life of freedom and purpose. With over a decade of experience as a professional interventionist, Sam has helped thousands of families navigate the painful yet transformative path to recovery. In this heartfelt conversation, Pej and Sam open up about their own journeys and their work together as colleagues and interventionists through Intervention On Call. They dive deep into: The importance of setting boundaries and breaking the cycle of enabling The role of family in creating lasting change Structured sober living and how accountability supports recovery Choosing the right treatment centers for long-term success Their shared philosophies on Methadone and Suboxone, and the importance of individualized recovery plans Today, Sam lives with purpose, peace, and gratitude — proving that recovery is possible not just for the individual, but for the entire family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, we sit down with Mark C. Manderson, a pioneer in the fields of addiction recovery and mental health. With decades of experience, Mark has dedicated his life to helping individuals and families break free from destructive habits, overcome self-sabotaging behaviors, and build a foundation for lasting transformation. As the founder of Pacific Shores Recovery—a trusted name for over 25 years—Mark has combined science-based strategies with compassionate care to create programs that truly change lives. From detox services to online counseling, veterans’ support, and mental health innovation, his work is centered on one mission: to remove the stigma around addiction and mental health so people can feel safe to heal and grow. Mark is also the author of The Recovery Way and the creator of the Pacific Shores App, designed to retrain the brain for better mental health. His impact reaches far beyond treatment centers—into communities, families, and individuals who have found hope through his leadership. Join us as we dive into Mark’s philosophy of recovery, his groundbreaking methods, and his vision for a world where healing is possible for everyone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this powerful episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, we sit down with Kat B, a courageous mother and survivor whose life took a dark turn through addiction, trauma, and incarceration—but who fought her way back to light. Born and raised in Orange County, Kat had every opportunity for a bright future. But the absence of her father created a deep emotional wound that led her into toxic relationships and substance abuse. Her addiction escalated from prescription pills to heroin, fentanyl, and meth—eventually landing her in a cycle of prostitution and a felony conviction. Now 19 months sober and thriving in recovery, Kat opens up about the pain that fueled her addiction, the power of medication-assisted treatment, and her path to rebuilding her life, family, and identity. This episode is a raw and redemptive journey through darkness to healing. If you’re struggling, know that hope is real—and recovery is possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Primary Purpose, Pej sits down with Dre Weil, who shares his remarkable story of resilience, redemption, and faith. Born in Slovakia and adopted at age 4, Dre grew up in sunny Orange County but carried deep wounds from abandonment and adoption struggles. Those wounds led to addiction, mental health battles, and years of hardship—homelessness, hospitalizations, and countless relapses. But when Dre finally let go of ego and opened his heart to God, everything began to change. This is a raw and powerful conversation about addiction, recovery, healing, and finding true purpose from within. Dre’s story is a reminder that no matter how far we fall, it’s never too late to rebuild, renew, and rise again. If Dre’s story inspires you, please like, comment, and share this episode with someone who needs hope. Don’t forget to subscribe for more powerful stories on Primary Purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this very special episode of Primary Purpose, host Pejman "Pej" Alaghamandan turns the mic on himself to share his own powerful journey. From struggles with addiction to finding meaning through recovery, Pej opens up about the challenges, lessons, and transformations that shaped his life. For years, Pej has sat down with inspiring guests to uncover what drives them—but today, he’s sharing his truth with you. This is a story of resilience, growth, and the pursuit of purpose that may resonate with anyone seeking hope and direction. If you’ve ever wondered what fuels Primary Purpose, this is the episode to watch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ryan Kendall’s story is one of resilience, hope, and transformation. After spending nine years living homeless, Ryan made the life-changing decision to turn his life around. Through the AA program, he discovered purpose, community, and a new way of living. Today, he embraces life one day at a time and is truly living his best life. In this powerful episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, Ryan shares: What it was like to survive nine years on the streets How Alcoholics Anonymous helped him find connection and meaning The daily practices that keep him grounded in sobriety Why living “one day at a time” is the key to his success This conversation is a reminder that no matter how far you’ve fallen, there’s always a way back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Once trapped in a cycle of heroin, meth, alcohol, and prison, Danny Lansdale has been clean and sober since January 2, 2012. Today, he’s a counselor, interventionist, and the founder of Standing United — a foundation helping hundreds transition from homelessness and addiction into lives of purpose and hope. In this powerful episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, Danny shares: His darkest days of addiction and incarceration The spiritual practices that transformed his life How he now speaks in prisons, schools, and communities to inspire change Why his social media, @thesoberspot, spreads a message of joy and freedom to thousands This is more than a comeback story — it’s proof that no one is too far gone to find purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this gripping episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, we sit down with Eric Duffner — a man whose life has been defined by extremes. From teenage ICU stays and prison hustles, to building and burning millions, to the devastating murder of his father, Eric’s story is one of chaos, addiction, and survival. Eric opens up about: Growing up rebellious and running from authority Becoming a drug dealer while battling his own heroin addiction Near-death overdoses, ICU stays, and life behind bars Losing everything — money, freedom, and dignity The devastating day his father, a respected surgeon, was murdered The spiral that followed, including overdoses and public shame And most importantly — how he found the strength to keep fighting for his life This is not just a story about addiction — it’s about resilience, redemption, and finding purpose when all seems lost. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Lauren Carter’s journey is one of pain, perseverance, and ultimately, redemption. At her lowest point, she was homeless and trapped in the cycle of addiction. Life felt hopeless, dark, and unmanageable. But with the help of friends, family, and professional support, Lauren fought her way back. Today, she’s clean, healthy, and living with purpose. In this powerful episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, Lauren opens up about her struggles, the lessons she’s learned, and what it truly takes to rebuild a life from rock bottom. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, this conversation is a reminder that recovery is possible, and hope is always within reach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Primary Purpose, Pej sits down with Ottis Johnson, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor at New Directions for Women, to discuss one of the most overlooked—but most powerful—parts of recovery: family healing. Ottis explains why treating only the addict isn’t enough, and how untreated family dysfunction often sets the stage for relapse. Through his work leading family groups, he has seen firsthand how family members discover the impact addiction has had on their own lives—emotionally, psychologically, physically, and even financially—despite never using substances themselves. By learning healthier ways to respond, families can create a safe, supportive environment where their loved one has the best chance to thrive in recovery. Because as Ottis reminds us: addiction is a family disease, and true healing must involve the whole family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this inspiring interview, meet Jennifer Hope, the founder of H.O.P.E. for Families of Addicts, a remarkable organization dedicated to providing support and resources to families affected by addiction. Jennifer shares her personal story, the motivation behind starting H.O.P.E., and the incredible work her organization is doing to bring hope and healing to families in need. Watch to learn more about Jennifer's journey and the vital mission of H.O.P.E. for Families of Addicts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this powerful episode of Primary Purpose, host Pej sits down with Dean Cramp—transformational life coach, breathwork facilitator, and founder of Transcend Healing and Breathwork. Dean’s story is one of radical transformation. After 20+ years of addiction, he got sober at 41, experienced a profound spiritual awakening, and walked away from a high-powered career in luxury car sales. What followed was a complete rebirth. Now certified in breathwork, yoga, Reiki, and sound healing, Dean helps others break through trauma and emotional blocks to uncover their true purpose. He mentors people in recovery, trains future healers, and leads transformative retreats across the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this powerful episode of Primary Purpose with Pej, we sit down with Jessy—a native Angeleno, co-owner of Namaste Sober Living, and a woman who has turned 16 years of addiction into a life of service, healing, and purpose. With multiple years of continuous sobriety, Jessy shares her deeply personal journey through recovery and the spiritual awakening that followed. From the depths of addiction to building a safe haven for women in early recovery, Jessy has embraced honesty, open-mindedness, and self-expression as her guiding principles. Her story is a testament to what’s possible when we surrender, heal, and lean into our true selves. Jessy also opens up about her passion for holistic healing—breathwork, cold plunges, meditation, movement—and how these practices have transformed her recovery. She’s not only a mentor and advocate, but a creative force, currently launching a clothing brand, Broken Bandit, that celebrates authenticity and bold self-expression. Whether you're in recovery or just seeking deeper meaning, this episode is a reminder that transformation is possible—and purpose is waiting on the other side of pain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices