Recovering Out Loud

Cravings don’t mean you’re failing.They mean your nervous system is activated.This 10-minute mindfulness meditation for addiction recovery is designed to help you sit with urges without reacting, using principles from Buddhist mindfulness (Anapanasati & insight practice) adapted for modern recovery.This is not about forcing calm, positive thinking, or “making cravings go away.”It’s about learning how to stay present long enough for urges to rise, peak, and pass—without acting on them.• Grounding the body when cravings or emotions spike• Mindfulness of breathing without control or force• Observing urges as sensations—not commands• Creating space between feeling and action• Strengthening the core recovery skill: non-reactivityThis practice is especially helpful for:• Cravings and relapse prevention• Early recovery or emotional sobriety• Anxiety, restlessness, or racing thoughts• Moments when willpower feels exhaustedYou can use this meditation daily, or as a reset when urges hit.You’re not weak for having cravings.You’re learning how to stay.🎧 Listen with headphones if possible🪑 Sit or lie down—whatever feels safest⏸ Pause or stop at any timeIf this helped you, consider subscribing or following for more recovery-grounded tools, not hype.In this guided meditation, you’ll practice:

This episode is a raw, unfiltered conversation about relapse after long-term sobriety, shame, integrity, and why early recovery relationships can quietly derail progress.Anthony sits down with a Steven W who shares his full arc: early substance use, jail, treatment, sober living, loss of close friends, repeated relapses, and finally what changed after hitting the true “jumping-off point.” Together, they unpack what it’s like to relapse with a head full of recovery, how secrecy erodes sobriety long before the first drink or drug, and why integrity—not willpower—is often the real line between staying sober and going back out.They explore:Why relapse often begins weeks or months before the substanceThe hidden danger of relationships in early recoveryHow shame and guilt isolate people from helpThe myth of “I can handle it this time”Why chemical peace of mind is no longer an option for someThe slow drift away from spiritual fitness that leads back to old patternsThis episode is especially powerful for anyone who has relapsed after significant clean time, is questioning their recovery foundation, or feels stuck between wanting sobriety and wanting comfort. It’s an honest reminder that recovery isn’t about perfection—it’s about alignment, honesty, and staying on the beam one day at a time.

We talk a lot about getting sober — but far less about what happens after the substances are gone.In this episode, I break down emotional sobriety: what it really means, why so many people struggle emotionally even years into recovery, and how emotional overload often comes before relapse.This isn’t about being calm all the time or “positive thinking.”It’s about learning how to feel emotions without being controlled by them.You’ll hear:The difference between physical sobriety and emotional sobrietyWhy emotional relapse often comes before physical relapseCommon emotional patterns in recovery that don’t get talked aboutWhat emotional sobriety actually looks like in real lifePractical tools to help regulate emotions without numbing or escapingIf you’re sober but still feel overwhelmed, reactive, or emotionally exhausted — this conversation is for you.Recovery isn’t just about not drinking.It’s about learning how to live inside your own head and body — safely.

Relapse doesn’t usually happen because someone “stops caring.”It happens when the mind becomes unsafe — when fear, shame, isolation, and obsession quietly take over.In this episode, we have an honest, unfiltered conversation about what the final days before recovery really feel like — the desperation, the mental chaos, and the moment when surrender finally becomes possible.We talk about why coming back to recovery can feel harder than getting sober the first time, how shame compounds after relapse, and why willpower alone is never enough. From spirituality and service to connection, honesty, and daily practice, this episode breaks down what actually helps when your brain is working against you.This conversation is for:• Anyone returning to recovery after relapse• People struggling with shame, fear, or mental obsession• Those questioning spirituality or a “higher power”• Anyone who feels disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuckRecovery isn’t about perfection.It’s about safety, connection, and learning how to live in the present moment again.If you’re struggling, you’re not broken — you’re human.👉 If this episode helps, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who might need to hear it.

Today i sat down with my good friend Ray. Relapse doesn’t usually start with picking up a substance.It starts quietly — with secrecy, self-deception, and the belief that “I’ll handle this on my own.”In this episode, we have a brutally honest conversation about what relapse actually looks like after time in recovery — when you’re no longer in crisis, no longer desperate, and no longer asking for help.We talk about being sober for years and still escaping. About how addiction becomes a chemical eject button for discomfort, fear, shame, resentment, money stress, and feeling out of control. About why some of us don’t ask for help — we have to get caught. And why, for many addicts, getting caught can feel like relief.This conversation goes far beyond substances. We unpack lying “for no reason,” people-pleasing, emotional reactivity, comparison, resentment, food addiction, control, and the everyday behaviors that keep addict thinking alive long after drugs are gone.We also talk honestly about the difference between alcohol and cocaine addiction, why willpower isn’t what keeps people sober, and what early recovery actually feels like when cravings are loud and honesty feels impossible.Most importantly, we talk about what recovery looks like today — not the highlight reel, not the inspirational version, but the real work: learning to sit with discomfort, slowing down reactions, and making sure at least one person in the world knows everything.This episode is for anyone who:Has relapsed after time soberFeels like they should be further alongIs sober but still strugglingOr is quietly carrying things they haven’t told anyone yetIf you’ve ever thought, “I don’t know if I have another recovery left in me,” this conversation is for you.You’re not alone — and you don’t have to carry it by yourself.

Welcome to al the new listeners! I'm so glad you're here. This is my story in a 20 minute episode, I hope you get something out of it. Relapse doesn’t start with drugs — it starts with secrets. In this raw episode, I explain how addiction convinces you you’re fine, productive, and “different this time,” even when your life looks good on the outside.I break down how steroids, ADHD meds, and stimulant abuse reopened the door to full relapse after years sober — and what I learned coming back.

Today's guest is Logan from New Generation Sobriety. Logan Battled alcoholism and gambling addiction until he went to his first rehab at 17 years old. After getting sober and celebrating some time under his belt, he relapsed on slot machines until he lost it all. Gambling addiction is one of the most dangerous and misunderstood addictions because it’s invisible. Unlike drugs or alcohol, there are no obvious physical signs — until the financial, emotional, and relational damage is already done.In this powerful recovery conversation, we break down why gambling addiction is often called a silent killer, how it hides in plain sight, and why so many people don’t realize there’s a problem until it’s too late.This clip is for anyone struggling with gambling, supporting someone in addiction recovery, or trying to understand why behavioral addictions can be just as destructive as substance use.Topics covered:Gambling addiction warning signsWhy gambling is harder to detect than drugs or alcoholFinancial secrecy and addictionRecovery, awareness, and early interventionIf this resonates, you’re not alone — and help is available.

Today Allen Kharlip, Clinical Supervisor at Addiction Rehab Toronto and good friend, returns to recovering out loud as we open up about current events. In this raw conversation, we unpack how social media becomes a new addiction for people in recovery — triggering comparison, inadequacy, obsessive thinking, and emotional relapse.If you’ve ever scrolled Instagram and felt worse afterward, you’re not alone. We talk about why inspiration online quickly turns into self-judgment, why comparison is the thief of joy, and how recovery tools like spirituality, connection, discipline, and CBT help us break the cycle.This episode covers:– Why scrolling never makes you feel better– How comparison fuels insecurity + relapse thinking– The “addict brain” hijacking social media– What actually restores peace: connection, meetings, service, spirituality– Setting boundaries around tech in early recovery– How to stop chasing validation and start living againFind Allens full story on episode

In this episode, I break down what spirituality actually is — especially for people in recovery who don’t believe in God, grew up religious, or feel triggered by the word “spiritual.”Spirituality in recovery isn’t dogma — it’s connection, grounding, meaning, and a power greater than your impulsive brain. Today I share practical spiritual tools, how I rebuilt my relationship with a higher power after relapse, and how spirituality became the anchor that keeps me sober.We cover:• Spirituality vs religion (what’s the difference?)• Why willpower alone isn’t enough in addiction recovery• The spiritual void caused by addiction• Practical tools: stillness, gratitude, service, meaning-making, surrender• How ego blocks your recovery• How to build a spiritual practice even if you’re brand newIf you’re struggling, open to change, or tired of white-knuckling sobriety—this one’s for you.Follow on IG: @RecoveringOutLoudPodSubscribe for weekly recovery content.

In today’s episode of Recovering Out Loud, Anthony breaks down one of the biggest challenges in sobriety: the fear of the future. If you struggle with overthinking, catastrophizing, anxiety about relapse, financial insecurity, or the pressure of rebuilding your life — this episode will ground you.You’ll learn:• The psychology and neurology behind fear in recovery• Why uncertainty feels dangerous when you stop drinking or using• The lies fear tells, and how to counter them with evidence• How fear shapes behaviour, avoidance, self-sabotage & toxic cycles• Tools for emotional sobriety: reframing, action steps, CBT, surrender• How to build a healthy relationship with the future• Reflection questions you can use todayIf this episode resonates, hit Subscribe, leave a rating, and share it with someone who needs it. Recovery makes the future possible — not dangerous.Keywords:recovery podcast, fear of the future, sobriety anxiety, emotional sobriety, addiction recovery motivation, relapse prevention, overthinking in recovery, fear in sobriety, CBT for anxiety, early recovery support, how to stay sober, Anthony Recovering Out Loud

In this community-driven episode, Anthony dives into the real questions you submitted — from alternative paths to sobriety to emotional boundaries, routines, family support, and how recovery skills apply to everyday life. No sugarcoating. No one-size-fits-all solutions. Just practical guidance from lived experience and professional training.We cover:• Why 12-step programs aren’t the only option• What detox vs. rehab REALLY means• How to help others without losing your own sobriety• The difference between supporting and enabling• How professionals protect their emotional boundaries• Why structure and routine save lives• How families can support a loved one coming home from treatment• Recovery tools that make everyone’s life better — not just people with addictionIf this episode helps you, please follow, like, or subscribe — it’s the best way to support the show so this free content can reach more people who need it.Instagram: @RecoveringOutLoudPodYou are not alone.(I appreciate you. I love you.)Resources: USA988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 for mental-health or substance-use crisesSAMHSA National Helpline (24/7):https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helplineTreatment Locator (Detox/Rehab Directory):https://findtreatment.govNAMI HelpLine:https://nami.org/helpPartnership to End Addiction (Parents/Families):https://drugfree.orgShatterproof Addiction Resources:https://www.shatterproof.org/find-helpAA (Alcoholics Anonymous):https://www.aa.orgNA (Narcotics Anonymous):https://www.na.orgSMART Recovery (CBT-based):https://www.smartrecovery.orgLifeRing Secular Recovery:https://www.lifering.orgRefuge Recovery (Buddhist-based):https://www.refugerecovery.orgCanada911 — Overdose or immediate danger988 Suicide & Crisis Helpline — Call or text 988 (nationwide)Wellness Together Canada:https://www.wellnesstogether.caConnexOntario (Ontario mental health & addiction directory):https://www.connexontario.ca211 Canada (local services search):https://211.caHealth Canada Substance Use Resources:https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-useBC: Here to Help:https://www.heretohelp.bc.caAlberta Health Services Addiction Help:https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/am/page16759.aspxSaskatchewan Health Authority Addictions:https://www.saskhealthauthority.ca/your-health/conditions-diseases-services/addictionsManitoba Addictions Foundation:https://afm.mb.caQuébec: Trouver de l’aide:https://www.quebec.ca/sante/trouver-aideNova Scotia Mental Health & Addictions:https://mha.nshealth.caNew Brunswick Addiction Services:https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/health/AddictionsandMentalHealth.htmlPEI Addiction Services:https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/health-pei/addiction-servicesNewfoundland & Labrador:https://mha.easternhealth.ca/addictionsAA Canada:https://www.aa.org/pages/en_US/find-local-aaNA Canada:https://www.canaacna.orgSMART Recovery Canada:https://smartrecovery.org/local/caAl-Anon / Nar-Anon (family support):https://al-anon.org & https://naranon.org

Most people think relapse is a single moment — but it’s not.In this video, I break down the three phases of relapse (emotional → mental → physical) and explain why relapse actually starts weeks or months before the first drink or drug. Using my own experience — eight years sober before relapsing, multiple rehabs, and now working in addiction counseling — plus the science behind cravings and dopamine, this video gives you a clear roadmap for understanding relapse and preventing it before it begins.You’ll learn:✅ The early emotional warning signs most people ignore✅ How stress, boredom, overconfidence, and isolation create relapse conditions✅ Why cravings feel so powerful and why your brain seeks the “quick fix”✅ How to identify your patterns, triggers, and red flags✅ Simple but powerful tools to interrupt cravings in real time✅ How to build a relapse prevention plan that actually works✅ Why relapse is not failure — and how to turn it into growthWhether you're new to recovery, coming back, or supporting someone you love, this is one of the clearest explanations of relapse you’ll find. No shame. No judgment. Just honesty, science, and practical tools.0:00 How relapse actually worksEmotional relapse signs (poor sleep, irritability, isolation)Mental relapse & “addict brain” bargainingWhy dopamine memories trigger cravingsPhysical relapse: the result, not the beginningMy story: relapsing after 8 years soberScience of cravings & stress responseTools to interrupt urges instantlyPattern recognition & relapse journalingWhy connection is the antidote to addictionThe dangers of overconfidence in recoveryShame, avoidance, and emotional overloadBuilding a simple relapse prevention planrelapse preventionstages of relapseemotional relapse signsaddiction recovery toolshow relapse happensmental relapse warning signssobriety motivationstaying sober during holidaysrelapse triggersaddiction psychologyrelapse after long-term sobrietyIf this video helps you, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast — it supports the channel, the message, and the people who need these tools the most. You’re not alone. You’re worth recovery.

“We almost died… so we have to talk about it.”This line says everything.This episode is a deep, unfiltered look into addiction, relapse, shame, near-death moments, and why telling the truth becomes a responsibility once you survive something you shouldn’t have.Today I sat down with the ladies from Girl, Undrunk - a podcast about addiction and sobriety. We talk openly about:Relapse triggered by body dysmorphia and Ozempic misuseSecrets, lying by omission, and why they keep you sickThe fear of asking for helpFamily dynamics, walking on eggshells, and holiday triggersWhy sobriety feels awkward at firstThe myth of “being fun when you drink”What REAL sober fun looks likeBuilding friendships that protect your recoveryWhy podcasting became a safe place to tell the truthIf you’ve ever felt alone, ashamed, or afraid to talk about your past — this episode shows you that healing begins when you finally say it out loud.👉 Follow for conversations that can actually save lives.

Going out sober is one of the hardest early-recovery milestones — but it DOES get easier.In this episode, I share the exact tools, mindset shifts, and sober strategies that helped me get through clubs, parties, concerts, holidays, and social events without drinking or using.You’ll learn:• Why going out sober feels so awkward at first• How to survive the “10–30 minute anxiety spike”• The sober ritual that keeps you grounded• What to say when someone asks “Why aren’t you drinking?”• How to handle triggers, pressure, and old using environments• When to leave — and why leaving early is a superpower• How to actually have FUN again without alcoholWhether you’re in early recovery or years in, you’ll find practical tips that work in real-world situations.You’re not broken. You’re just learning a new way to live — and you don’t have to do it alone.If this episode helped you, subscribe for more sober tools, real recovery talk, and weekly episodes.✨ Recovery is simple… not easy.✨ Don’t pick up the first one.

AA? SMART? Refuge? Therapy? Coaching?If you’ve ever tried to get sober and felt overwhelmed by all the recovery options out there, this video breaks everything down in a simple, honest, and non-judgmental way. Whether you're sober-curious, in early recovery, or coming back after relapse — this guide will help you understand what’s out there and how to choose the right recovery modality for you.In this 15 -minute breakdown, I cover:✔ 12-Step programs (AA, NA, CA) — what they’re actually like✔ SMART Recovery & secular options✔ Refuge Recovery, Recovery Dharma & mindfulness-based modalities✔ Therapy for addiction (CBT, DBT, EMDR, MI)✔ Online recovery communities & sober coaching✔ Harm reduction & medication support✔ How to actually choose a path that fits your life, personality, and needsRecovery isn’t “one size fits all.” It’s a toolbox.You get to build the version that keeps you alive, sober, and growing.If this helped, drop a comment about your experience with different recovery paths — it might help someone else watching.DISCLAIMER:I DO NOT REPRESENT ANY OF THESE ORGANIZATIONS OR GROUPS THIS IS MY EXPERIENCE AND OPINON 🔔 Follow for more content on sobriety, relapse prevention, addiction psychology, emotional healing, and building a life you don’t need alcohol to escape from.

Is sobriety supposed to feel boring?Short answer: yeah… sometimes it does. But there’s nothing wrong with you — your brain is literally recalibrating after years of artificial dopamine spikes from alcohol, cocaine, or whatever your drug of choice was.In today’s video, I break down why boredom happens in early recovery, how long the flat / plateau phase lasts, and what actually helps you rebuild motivation, joy, excitement, and real dopamine again.You’ll learn:✔ Why your dopamine system drops during early sobriety✔ Why boredom is NOT failure✔ How boredom can trigger relapse (my story)✔ How addiction hijacks “fun”✔ How to build REAL dopamine (not the quick highs)✔ How to create a life that’s exciting again without substances✔ The difference between boredom vs loneliness✔ How long the “flat” recovery phase lasts✔ Practical steps to feel better todayIf you’re sober-curious, newly sober, or coming back after relapse — this video will make you feel seen, validated, and supported.👇 Subscribe for more recovery contentIG: @RecoveringOutLoudPodPodcast: Recovering Out Loud PodcastTikTok / YouTube Shorts: @recoveringoutloudpodRecovery is simple, not easy. One day at a time.

Your first 30 days of sobriety can feel confusing, overwhelming, and honestly… scary.In this video, I break down exactly what to expect in early recovery — week by week — so you don’t have to go through it alone.We’ll talk about withdrawal, cravings, sleep, anxiety, emotional ups & downs, what’s normal, and how to make it through the first month alcohol-free.This video is for you if:• You’re on Day 1 or restarting• You want a simple plan to stay sober• You’ve relapsed before and want this time to be different• You need support, reassurance, and practical tools that actually workWhat you’ll learn:• How to survive the first 7 days without alcohol• Why cravings feel so intense & how to handle them• The emotional rollercoaster of Days 8–14• How your body and brain start healing• What to do each day to make sobriety easier• Common traps that lead to relapse• A simple daily routine for your first 30 days alcohol-freeIf you’re in early recovery, you are NOT alone. Drop where you’re at (Day 1, Day 5, Day 30!) and I’ll cheer you on. You can do this — one day at a time.

From the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous Page 86-88on awakening Follow Us:JOIN ME ON MY SOCIALS - FREE RECOVERY GUIDE AND RECOVERY COACHING ⁠https://linktr.ee/Recoveringoutloudpod⁠🌐 Website: recoveringoutloud.ca📱 Socials: @RecoveringOutLoudPod (Instagram, X, TikTok & more)🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/Recoveringoutloudpod💡 Helpful Resources for Addiction & Recovery🇨🇦 National (Canada-Wide) ResourcesCanadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA)Research, policy, and resources on substance use and addiction.Health Canada – Substance Use and AddictionsGovernment info on prevention, treatment, and harm reduction.Canada’s Drug and Alcohol Treatment DirectoryLocate treatment centers across Canada.National Overdose Response Service (NORS)Peer-run hotline for safer drug use support.📞 Call: 1-888-688-6677🏠 Ontario-Specific ResourcesConnexOntario – Mental Health & Addiction HelplineFree, confidential support for addiction and mental health.📞 Call: 1-866-531-2600Ontario Addiction Treatment Centres (OATC)Opioid addiction treatment (methadone, Suboxone).Ontario Harm Reduction NetworkSafer drug use, naloxone, and harm reduction programs.CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health)Leading hospital for addiction and mental health care.📞 Call: 1-800-463-6273Withdrawal Management (Detox) Services in OntarioFind detox and treatment programs.Ontario 211 – Addiction & Mental Health ServicesConnect to local support services.📞 Dial: 211🚨 Crisis & Immediate HelpOverdose Prevention Hotline: 1-888-853-8542Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566 | Text: 45645Good2Talk (For Students): 1-866-925-5454💬 Join the conversation! Share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s recover out loud together.👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for new episodes every week!#AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #RecoveringOutLoud #recovery #addiction #podcast #sober #sobriety

This episode explores opioid addiction, methadone and Suboxone treatment, fentanyl risks, withdrawal, and the emotional toll of relapse. Kate from CATC breaks down how opioid agonist therapy works, why shame keeps people stuck, and what treatment centers can do better. Anthony shares raw stories from relapse, detox, and how connection, honesty, and support saved his life. If you want real insight into recovery, harm reduction, and long-term sobriety—this is the episode to hear.

In this episode of Recovering Out Loud, we dive into a raw and honest conversation about relapse, body language, hidden pain, and the transformation that happens when recovery is paired with purpose.We unpack the moment a friend could see a relapse coming before the person struggling could even admit it. We talk about the shame, denial, and the sixth-sense intuition people in recovery often develop.From 48-hour blackouts to becoming a coach who helps people rebuild their relationship with movement, she shares how fitness became a powerful anchor in sobriety — but also how it can become obsessive, toxic, and another addiction if we’re not careful.We explore:• How childhood pressure + performance can shape addiction• Why your body language reveals everything you try to hide• How community workouts mimic recovery meetings• The rise of steroids, Ozempic, and “fitness as numbing” in sobriety• Workaholism, burnout, money stress, and staying spiritually grounded• How to move from extrinsic validation to intrinsic values• Why recovery is “six garbage cans with five lids”If you’re navigating sobriety, struggling with body image, stuck in obsessive fitness cycles, or looking for community — this episode is for you.Listen, share, and join the recovery conversation.#sober #recovery #addictionrecovery #mentalhealth #fitnessjourney #healing