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Rooted Recovery Stories is where unfiltered truth meets real healing. Host Patrick Custer sits down with celebrities and survivors to reveal what it really takes to break cycles, rebuild self-worth, and find joy after pain. If you’ve ever felt alone in your struggles, these stories will remind you: you’re not broken—you’re becoming. Listen in and discover the courage to heal, grow, and rise.
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Doug Bopst is an award-winning personal trainer, author, speaker and business owner. Those credentials and accolades are a result of his own transformation. He is a former felon and drug addict, sentenced to years in jail due to his decisions.
Doug sits down with Patrick to discuss the challenges that contributed to his abuse of substances, the victim mindset that kept him in that vicious cycle, and his time in jail which caused a massive transformation. Tune in to this reflective conversation about finding faith, the importance of taking accountability for your actions and how to turn adversity into advantage.
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We would love to hear from you! Email us at ROOTED@PROMISES.COM
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Get to know our Guest: Doug Bopst
TikTok - @dougbopst
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Host: Patrick Custer
Insta: @patrick_custer
Tiktok: @patrickcusterproject
#trauma #recovery #podcast #mentalhealth #addiction #lifestyle #godsnotdonewithmeyet #inspiration #purpose #therapy #tennessee #selfcare #overcome #healing #wellness #goodnews #promisesbehavorialhealth #patrickcuster #prison #struggle #rootedrecovery #jail #dougbopst
Keywords: trauma, recovery, podcast, mental health, rooted recovery stories, patrick custer, mental health podcast, trauma podcast, anxiety podcast, recovery podcast, coping mechanisms, nashville, self care, therapy, overcoming, prison, ex criminal, criminal stories, jail stories,
1In recognition of National Recovery Month, Charles Kelley - co-founding member of legendary country trio, Lady A, and his wife, Cassie Kelley joined host, Patrick Custer for a special episode of the Rooted Recovery Stories podcast in front of a live audience at SoHo House theatre in Nashville, TN. Charles discusses his battle with alcoholism, the lowest moments of his life and how he has able to rise above it. Cassie discusses the less talked about topic regarding the families, friends and spouses of those in addiction and paints their real-life picture of how it is not just the alcoholic, but a family disease.We are so grateful for the opportunity to have conducted this interview with these two inspiring people and with great respect that we offer this vulnerable and intimate look inside their story of trials and hope for you now!About Charles Kelley & Cassie Kelley:Charles, one third of the award-winning group Lady A, recently marked two years of sobriety. He first opened up about his decision to focus on his health in August 2022, when Lady A postponed a tour to support his “journey to sobriety,” they shared at the time. Charles has since spoken publicly about his decision and debuted the song “As Far As You Could,” which he called his “goodbye letter to alcohol.” Cassie has also shared her perspective in interviews and discusses why they’ve opted to publicly share their story. She talks about the impact of alcoholism on the family. She's honest and vulnerable and hopes her journey helps others in navigating this difficult road.__________________Watch/Listen/Subscribe to the Show: ↳ YouTube↳ Apple Podcast↳ Spotify↳ Instagram↳ Tiktok↳ Facebook__________________Patrick Custer - Host↳ Instagram: @thepatrickcuster↳ TikTok: @thepatrickcuster↳ YouTube: @thepatrickcuster↳ Facebook: @thepatrickcuster↳ Website: linktr.ee/patrickcusterCharles Kelley - Guest↳ Instagram: @charleskelley↳ TikTok: @charleskelleyla↳ YouTube: @CharlesKelleyLA↳ Facebook: @CharlesKelley↳ X: @charleskelleyla↳Spotify: Charles Kelley↳ Apple Music: Charles Kelley↳ Website: www.charleskelley.comCassie Kelley - Guest↳ Instagram: @cassiemkelley__________________Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma:↳ Admissions: (888) 648-4098↳ Insta: @promises_bh↳ URL: www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com Mental Health America:↳ URL: www.mhanational.org__________________Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" in Nashville, TN!Visit us today at https://www.thecastcollective.comEmail: info@thecastcollective.comFollow The Cast Collective on Instagram & Twitter!Instagram: @TheCastCollectiveTwitter: @TheCastCollectiveKeywords: trauma, recovery, podcast, mental health, rooted recovery stories, mental health podcast, trauma podcast, anxiety podcast, recovery podcast, coping mechanisms, nashville, domestic violence, trauma, podcast, interview, country music, music, musician, lady a, lady antebellum, charles kelly, charles kelley, cassie kelly, cassie kelley, songs for a new moon
On this week’s episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, Patrick is joined by Bravo’s ‘Below Deck’ sensation, Kyle (Viljoen) Riley! He opens up about his time on the show and the corruption, manipulation and abuse in the elite yachting scene across the globe. Kyle says he, and other crew members, witnessed and experienced these same appalling behaviors during their time on ‘Below Deck’. Kyle also discusses the mental health crises that overwhelmed him and brought his life to a screeching halt. The continuous work and effort that Kyle has put towards himself and his own mental health that has brought him a long, deep breath of relief and acceptance about his past, present and future.All this and more on this episode!
We would love to hear from you! Email us at ROOTED@PROMISES.COM
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__________________
Resources:
Insta: / mentalhealthamerica
URL: https://www.mhanational.org
Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma:
URL: https://www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com
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Follow Patrick Custer!
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Follow Kyle Riley (Viljoen)!
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BOLD SESSION RADIO: (https://www.linktr.ee/BOLDSESSIONS)
Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" in Nashville, TN!
Visit us today at https://www.thecastcollective.com
Email: info@thecastcollective.com
Follow The Cast Collective on Instagram & Twitter!
Instagram: @TheCastCollective
Twitter: @TheCastCollective
About Below Deck:
This reality series profiles a group of young people who work aboard yachts that measure well over 100 feet long. The crew members, known as yachties, live aboard the luxurious, privately owned vessels while making sure that their demanding clients' ever-changing needs are met. The yachties share a passion for a job that allows them to visit some of the world's most beautiful places. Each episode features a different group of passengers -- ranging from millionaires to hard-partying friends -- as they head out for a marine adventure. The crews live by the "work hard, play harder" motto that gives them access to exotic perks few people get to experience.
#lgbtqia #trauma #recovery #podcast #mentalhealth #lifestyle #inspiration #purpose #therapy #tennessee #selfcare #overcome #healing #wellness #goodnews #promisesbehavorialhealth #patrickcuster #struggle #rootedrecovery #nashville #religion #KyleRiley #BelowDeck #Season7
Keywords: trauma, recovery, podcast, mental health, rooted recovery stories, mental health podcast, trauma podcast, anxiety podcast, recovery podcast, coping mechanisms, nashville, domestic violence, trauma, podcast, interview, country music, tiktok, tik tok, religion, below deck, season seven season 7 below deck, below deck kyle, below deck kyle riley, belowdeck
Together, Patrick and Donna explore:-The pivotal turning points that shifted her path toward recovery-The role of faith and community in rebuilding her life-How facing the truth about herself became the foundation for lasting change-The courage it took to break free from the same relationship patterns she’d been repeating for decades-Why hope is possible even in the darkest seasonsThis is a story about redemption, resilience, and the courage it takes to start over not just once, but as many times as it takes._________________Watch/Listen/Subscribe to the Show: ↳ YouTube↳ Apple Podcast↳ Spotify↳ Instagram↳ Tiktok↳ Facebook__________________Patrick Custer - Host↳ Instagram: @thepatrickcuster↳ TikTok: @thepatrickcuster↳ YouTube: @thepatrickcuster↳ Facebook: @thepatrickcuster↳ Website: linktr.ee/patrickcusterDonna Adams - Guest↳ Insta: @50shadesofdonna↳Facebook: @donnamusto__________________Get Help: Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma↳ Admissions: (888) 648-4098↳ Insta: @promises_bh↳ URL: www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com Mental Health America:↳ URL: www.mhanational.org________________00:00 - Introduction to Rooted Recovery Stories05:20 - Reflecting on Early Life and Home Environment13:02 - Navigating Sensitivity in a Chaotic Environment19:39 - Compartmentalizing Childhood Trauma25:43 - The Lasting Effects of Abuse35:34 - The Cycle of Abuse and Generational Trauma43:10 - Creating a Safe Environment for Children55:17 - Recognizing Patterns in Relationships
“I didn’t know how to express the pain. So I turned it into art.” What happens when survival becomes silence and silence becomes a scream on canvas? Join us for an enlightening episode of Rooted Recovery Stories as host Patrick Custer sits down with artist Ryan Rado. In this candid conversation, Ryan shares his journey through childhood trauma, the challenges of living with Tourette's syndrome, and the healing power of art.From navigating a chaotic home life to the struggles of bullying in school, Ryan opens up about the emotional scars that shaped his understanding of love and self-worth. He discusses the complexities of codependency, the impact of validation, and how he learned to embrace his creative expression as a form of therapy. In this episode: How Tourette’s shaped Ryan’s relationship with identity, self-expression, and stigma The long-term effects of emotional abuse and violence in childhood Why art became Ryan’s form of communication, healing, and survival The unseen weight of codependency and internalized pain How Ryan reclaimed power through storytelling, art, and self-awareness Discover how Ryan transforms pain into art, the importance of vulnerability, and the journey toward self-acceptance. This episode is a powerful reminder that scars can become searchlight beacons for others on their healing journeys.__________________Watch/Listen/Subscribe to the Show: ↳ YouTube↳ Apple Podcast↳ Spotify↳ Instagram↳ Tiktok↳ Facebook__________________Patrick Custer - Host↳ Instagram: @thepatrickcuster↳ TikTok: @thepatrickcuster↳ YouTube: @thepatrickcuster↳ Facebook: @thepatrickcuster↳ Website: linktr.ee/patrickcusterRyan Rado - Guest↳ Insta: @ryan_rado↳ Insta: @makeitperfectshow↳ YouTube: @MakeItPerfect↳ Website: www.ryanrado.com__________________Get Help: Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma↳ Admissions: (888) 648-4098↳ Insta: @promises_bh↳ URL: www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com Mental Health America:↳ URL: www.mhanational.org__________________About Ryan Rado: Ryan Rado is a Nashville based multidisciplinary artist, curator, musician, and ontological coach whose abstract paintings explore memory, healing, identity, and the tension between control and surrender. Originally from Michigan, he began creating art in early adolescence as a way to process trauma and make sense of chaos within his home life. After spending years in Nashville’s music industry, he shifted his focus to painting in 2014, finding in visual art a more honest and immediate form of emotional expression.His signature works are often painted on red velvet and feature somber color palettes, bold gestures, and layered textures that invite deep introspection. Rado intentionally chooses materials that challenge artistic conventions, using them to confront ideas about value, imperfection, and personal truth. He views the creative process as a dialogue with emotion, allowing his work to emerge from a space of vulnerability rather than control. In addition to his studio practice, Rado is the founder and curator of Rock Wall Gallery, a space dedicated to showcasing raw and emotionally resonant art. He also leads therapeutic workshops that blend creative expression with ontological coaching, guiding others toward self-awareness and healing through the act of making. Living with Tourette’s Syndrome, he openly shares how the condition influences his perspective, embracing it as an essential part of his identity and artistic voice.
Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide, grief, addiction, mental health challenges, and other sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised.He didn’t think he’d make it to 26. By then, Patrick Casale had already lost his stepmother to cancer, his best friend to suicide and himself to gambling addiction, shame, and emotional paralysis. But rock bottom didn’t end his story, it unraveled the one he’d been trying to survive: the story where masking pain and pretending to be “fine” was the only way to belong.In this unflinching episode, Patrick shares the moments that nearly ended him and the ones that slowly rebuilt him. From devastating loss to the weight of silence, we explore how grief, addiction, and years of emotional shutdown intersected with a late-in-life AuDHD (Autism + ADHD) diagnosis that finally explained what nothing else could.For the first time, he began to see his struggles not as personal failures, but misunderstood wiring in a world that never made room for difference. This isn’t just a recovery story it’s a blueprint for self-acceptance, for healing without shame, and for creating a life that doesn’t require an escape plan.In This Episode We Cover:Grief, trauma & emotional collapse after losing his stepmom and best friendGambling addiction and the illusion of controlLiving undiagnosed: the cost of masking with late-in-life AuDHDReframing “brokenness” as misunderstood neurodivergenceHow therapy, community, and radical honesty saved his life__________________Watch/Listen/Subscribe to the Show: ↳ YouTube↳ Apple Podcast↳ Spotify↳ Instagram↳ Tiktok↳ Facebook__________________Patrick Custer - Host↳ Instagram: @thepatrickcuster↳ TikTok: @thepatrickcuster↳ YouTube: @thepatrickcuster↳ Facebook: @thepatrickcuster↳ Website: linktr.ee/patrickcusterPatrick Casale - Guest↳ Insta: @patrick.casale↳ Facebook: @CasaleCoaching↳ Tiktok: @patrickcasale↳ Website: www.allthingspractice.com__________________Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma:↳ Admissions: (888) 648-4098↳ Insta: @promises_bh↳ URL: www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com Mental Health America:↳ URL: www.mhanational.org__________________About Patrick Casale: Patrick Casale is not only an AuDHD licensed Mental Health & Addiction Therapist and a group practice owner but also a Entrepreneur Coach & Strategist for Neurodivergent Business Owners. With experience in both the clinical mental health world and the business world, he has helped thousands of mental health therapists around the United States leave their agencies behind and create their ideal private practices. "I’ve worked in the helping profession since 2008, and, like many therapists, I started my career in a community mental health job where instead of feeling fulfilled, I felt overworked, burnt out, taken for granted, and underappreciated. I knew I wanted out but feared the uncertainty of private practice, because, at the time, I had no fucking clue how to start a business. After all, most people who go into the helping profession don’t have a lot of business training, if any at all. After a lot of work, some struggles, and trial-and-error, I successfully launched my private practice. Then a couple of years after that, I launched a thriving group practice. I am truly passionate about empowering therapists to take the steps they need to create more successful lives and careers while working flexible hours, taking more vacations, and using their precious clinical skills effectively. When it comes to being a successful private practice and small business owner, I’ve already been there and done that, so now I help other therapists all over the United States save time, skip the guesswork, and start seeing clients sooner with their own private practices."
What happens when the people who raised you were also the ones you had to survive? In this powerful Pride Month episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, media entrepreneur and LGBTQ+ advocate David Hawkins joins host Patrick Custer to share his journey of growing up queer and deeply misunderstood in rural South Carolina.From the emotional toll of being an effeminate boy in a culture steeped in toxic masculinity to navigating faith, family, and identity in a world that demanded silence, David opens up about the trauma that shaped him, and the radical healing that followed.He reflects on the complexity of his relationship with his parents, including a poignant final dinner with his father, and the burden of being “the strong one” in a family still learning how to love fully. Through it all, David’s story is a testament to queer resilience, the power of self-advocacy, and the lifelong journey of becoming.This is Part 1 of a two-part series, an unflinching, redemptive reflection on surviving rejection, reclaiming truth, and celebrating LGBTQ+ pride in every step of healing.__________________Watch/Listen/Subscribe to the Show: ↳ YouTube↳ Apple Podcast↳ Spotify↳ Instagram↳ Tiktok↳ Facebook__________________Patrick Custer - Host↳ Instagram: @thepatrickcuster↳ TikTok: @thepatrickcuster↳ YouTube: @thepatrickcuster↳ Facebook: @thepatrickcuster↳ Website: linktr.ee/patrickcusterDavid Hawkins - Guest↳ Insta: @davidmichaelhawkins↳ Threads: @davidmichaelhawkins↳ Tiktok: @davidmichaelhawkins↳ Website: www.mypr-lab.com__________________Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma:↳ Admissions: (888) 648-4098↳ Insta: @promises_bh↳ URL: www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com Mental Health America:↳ URL: www.mhanational.org__________________About David Hawkins:David Michael, the first and only publicly HIV-positive, gay country music entertainer, has released two singles, “He’s Got You” and “A Poor Man’s Roses,” from his six-song Patsy Cline tribute EP, recorded at the famous OmniSound Studios on Music Row. “Openly gay and openly HIV-positive, David Michael represents the change of what it means to be an authentic country music entertainer,” Denny Patterson comments about Michael’s contributions to the industry in his interview for OutFront Magazine. David Michael's most recent recording, “Pretty Boy,” written by country charting star Hailey Whitters, was released to the public on June 1st, in honor of Pride Month. Beyond his role as a performer, David Michael is the founder and CEO of MY PR Lab and served as the primary event coordinator for Music City's First-Ever CMgAys.
What if telling the truth about who you are meant risking everything you’ve worked for? In this deeply personal episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, country music icon, Ty Herndon, returns to reflect on the cost of hiding, the power of coming out, and the kind of healing that only comes when you stop performing and start living. Ty opens up about the weight of being one of the first openly gay artists in mainstream country music and what it took to finally choose authenticity over approval. From internalized shame to spiritual transformation, this conversation is a raw, redemptive look at reclaiming your voice and rewriting your story. He also shares the latest chapter of his career, including his upcoming single with LeAnn Rimes and a new album honoring 30 years of music, advocacy, and hard-won self-love.This episode is about more than music, it's about survival, reinvention, and the freedom that comes from being fully seen.__________________Watch/Listen/Subscribe to the Show: ↳ YouTube↳ Apple Podcast↳ Spotify↳ Instagram↳ Tiktok↳ Facebook__________________Patrick Custer - Host↳ Instagram: @thepatrickcuster↳ TikTok: @thepatrickcuster↳ YouTube: @thepatrickcuster↳ Facebook: @thepatrickcuster↳ Website: linktr.ee/patrickcusterTy Herndon - Guest↳ Insta: @tyherndonofficial↳ Website: www.tyherndon.com↳ Tiktok: @tyherndonofficial↳ Facebook: @tyherndonofficial__________________Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma:↳ Admissions: (888) 648-4098↳ Insta: @promises_bh↳ URL: www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com Mental Health America:↳ URL: www.mhanational.orgAbout Ty Herndon:Ty Herndon has lived a life and career of extreme highs and lows and celebrates a critical milestone in country music as his record-breaking debut single “What Mattered Most” turns thirty in 2025. Between 1995 and 2002, Herndon charted 17 singles, including his three number ones and seventeen top 10 hits, such as “I Want My Goodbye Back,” “Loved Too Much,” “A Man Holding On,” and “Hands of a Working Man.” He topped the charts in 1996 with the single “Living in a Moment” and again in 1998 with “It Must Be Love.” Ty continued to break new ground throughout the next decade, releasing a Greatest Hits collection, as well as the albums "Right About Now," "Lies I Told Myself" and the Grammy-nominated "Journey On." In 2015 he became the first major male country music artist to come out as gay and released the critically acclaimed albums "House on Fire" and "Got It Covered" and launched the annual Concert For Love & Acceptance. Ty made a triumphant comeback beginning in 2020 with the release of “Orphans of God,” a duet with Kristin Chenoweth that peaked at number one on the iTunes charts. That was quickly followed by the release of JACOB and JACOB (Deluxe Edition) in 2022 and 2023 respectively, for the first time bringing his full journey from darkness to light and back again to his music. The album touched on highly personal themes ranging from addiction, recovery, and mental fitness to lost love, self-discovery and personal freedom. It spawned the country radio hits “Till You Get There” and “Dents on a Chevy,” a duet with Terri Clark that spent 7 weeks atop the independent country radio charts, becoming the number one independent country single of 2023. Grammy-nominated and Dove Award winning, Ty’s voice is stronger than ever, and he’s using it to make a difference. In 2020, he created the Foundation For Love & Acceptance to further his work on behalf of mental health, addiction and trauma recovery, and building a more inclusive country music community.
What do you do when everything you've built, your identity, your career, your marriage starts to unravel at once? Shane Diamond, a celebrated speaker, writer, and advocate, joins us to talk about surviving chaos, coming out as trans, and finding recovery in the most unexpected ways. From figure skating in hockey skates to waking up at 4 a.m. after partying in Portland, Shane’s story is anything but linear and exactly the kind you won’t forget.This isn’t a story about the fall. It’s about the decision to rise on your own terms. Hit play. You’ll be hooked in the first five minutes.__________________Watch/Listen/Subscribe to the Show: ↳ YouTube↳ Apple Podcast↳ Spotify↳ Instagram↳ Tiktok↳ Facebook__________________Patrick Custer - Host↳ Instagram: @thepatrickcuster↳ TikTok: @thepatrickcuster↳ YouTube: @thepatrickcuster↳ Facebook: @thepatrickcuster↳ Website: linktr.ee/patrickcusterShane Diamond - Guest↳ Insta: @pantsdiamond↳ Website: www.shanezdiamond.com↳ Tiktok: @pantsdiamond↳ X: @pantsdiamond__________________Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma:↳ Admissions: (888) 648-4098↳ Insta: @promises_bh↳ URL: www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com Mental Health America:↳ URL: www.mhanational.orgAbout Shane Diamond:Shane Diamond is a human rights advocate, media and communications expert, and proud transgender man. As the Principal of Very Good Consulting, LLC, Shane leads honest conversations that challenge biases and expand our collective capacity for change by working with the power of empathy to build connections and break barriers. Shane’s work focuses on transgender inclusion, supporting trans youth, and empowering communities to create safer and more affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ people. Learn more about working with Shane here. Shane’s work with Speak About It, EqualityMaine, and the Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund (TLDEF) resulted in his expertise in nonprofit communications and storytelling. His real-life experience as a trans man has led to a passion for practicing and teaching empathy-building to reduce bias, and supporting organizations in developing tangible action steps to create lasting change through inclusive policies and workplace culture, all fused with humor and vulnerability.
Healing doesn’t always begin with answers. Sometimes it starts with the questions no one ever thought to ask.Before she became the voice behind Smarter in Seconds, Blair Imani was navigating a deeply personal journey through mental health, identity, and belonging, quietly and in plain sight. In this powerful conversation, Blair shares the story most people haven’t heard: the one that came before the platform, the book deals, and the viral success. From early struggles with depression and institutionalization to navigating faith, queerness, and sobriety in public, Blair opens up about what it really means to heal in real time. Not perfectly. Not all at once. But bravely and out loud. This episode isn’t just about one woman’s recovery. It’s about what it means to live at the intersection of identities, expectations, and survival and how choosing joy, setting boundaries, and speaking hard truths can transform not just a life, but a legacy.LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!__________________↳ YouTube↳ Apple Podcast↳ Spotify↳ Instagram↳ Tiktok↳ Facebook__________________Patrick Custer - Host↳ Instagram: @thepatrickcuster↳ TikTok: @thepatrickcuster↳ YouTube: @thepatrickcuster↳ Facebook: @thepatrickcuster↳ Website: linktr.ee/patrickcusterBlair Imani - Guest↳ Insta: @blairimani↳ Facebook: @blairimani↳ YouTube: @blairimani↳ Tiktok: @blairimani↳ Website: www.blairimani.com__________________Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma:↳ Admissions: (888) 648-4098↳ Insta: @promises_bh↳ URL: www.promisesbehavioralhealth.com Mental Health America:↳ URL: www.mhanational.orgAbout Blair Imani: Blair Imani is the creator of the viral web series, Smarter In Seconds, LA Times bestselling author of Read This to Get Smarter, and co-host of the podcast Thoughts About Feelings. The New York Times praises Blair Imani’s unique ability to create “progressive lessons with vibrant visuals and a perky, quirky delivery.” Her scholarship spans intersectionality, gender studies, race and racism, sociology, and United States history. She is also a historian, having written Making Our Way Home (2020) and Modern HER story (2018). She has had the opportunity to present at renowned universities and companies including Oxford, Harvard, Meta, Sephora, and Gates Ventures. Blair Imani serves on the Board of Directors of the Tegan and Sara Foundation. She has collaborated with and interviewed influential people across a variety of fields including Jane Fonda, Gloria Steinem, and Dr. Kimberlé Crenshaw.Blair Imani believes in the transformative power of education and that self understanding is the key to recognizing our interconnectedness. She is very rapid to be known publicly as “the Smarter in Seconds lady,” and feels it is an honor to be a part of so many people’s learning experiences. She consistently promotes the value of mutual respect across differences, asserting that meaningful progress requires creating spaces where diverse perspectives are honored and dehumanization is not tolerated. Empathy and respect are not just important values but essential tools for challenging oppressive systems.In 2025 she was awarded the Activist with Impact Award by REACH LA, an organization dedicated to celebrating LGBTQIA+ people of color through wellness, HIV/AIDS prevention, and personal development.
What if the faith you were raised in wasn’t chosen but programmed? Whether you’re questioning everything or doubling down on your beliefs, this landmark 200th episode is for you. Monte Mader’s journey from Christian nationalist-in-training to spiritual deconstructionist isn’t an attack it’s an invitation. An invitation to examine what you inherited, what you believe, and why. No matter where you land, this conversation might challenge something you’ve never dared to question and that’s exactly why you need to hear it.Spirituality can be a powerful source of comfort, connection, and personal growth but when faith is distorted by fear, control, or coercion, it can leave deep emotional wounds. Religious trauma doesn’t come from belief itself, but from environments where questioning is punished, conformity is demanded, and individuals especially children are not given the right to consent. This kind of trauma often shows up as chronic guilt, anxiety around “disobedience,” fear-based obedience, or a loss of personal identity. Whether you’ve grown up in a high-control religious group or entered one later in life, warning signs may include black-and-white thinking, spiritual manipulation, isolation from non-believers, and teachings that prioritize hierarchy over compassion. It’s important to remember: religion is not inherently harmful but unchecked power within it can be. If you’re questioning your experience, you’re not alone. Resources like Reclamation Collective, The Religious Trauma Institute, and Dr. Marlene Winell’s Recovery from Religion offer education, support, and healing communities for those navigating spiritual abuse or religious deconstruction. Healing is possible, and your story is valid.What This Episode Covers:Monte’s personal turning point: the moment her belief system crackedThe mental health toll of religious trauma and spiritual fear in childhoodHow Christian nationalism shaped her worldview—and why she walked awayThe psychological impact of purity culture on women’s identity and self-worthWhy “submission,” obedience, and modesty were never about holinessThe danger of unquestioned authority in faith-based systemsHow spiritual teachings can be twisted to uphold patriarchy and white supremacyThe difference between faith and fear—and how to tell which one’s guiding youWhat the Bible actually says (and doesn’t) about women, sexuality, and powerWhy reclaiming curiosity is the key to healing religious traumaA call for compassion, critical thinking, and honest self-examination—no matter what you believe LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!__________________↳ YouTube↳ Apple Podcast↳ Spotify↳ Instagram↳ Tiktok↳ Facebook__________________Patrick Custer – Host↳ Instagram: @thepatrickcuster↳ TikTok: @thepatrickcuster↳ YouTube: @thepatrickcuster↳ Facebook: @thepatrickcuster↳ Website: linktr.ee/patrickcusterMonte Mader – Guest↳ Insta: @montemader↳ Facebook: @themontemader↳ Youtube: @montemader↳ Tiktok: @montemader↳ X: @montemader__________________Promises Behavioral Health – Treatment for addiction, mental health/trauma:↳ Admissions: (888) 648-4098↳ Insta: @promises_bh↳ URL: www.promisesbehavioralhealth.comMental Health America:↳ URL: www.mhanational.org
From the outside, Chrissy Metz seemed to have it all starring in a hit show, inspiring millions, and radiating confidence but behind the spotlight was a woman navigating the painful realities of childhood trauma, body image struggles, people-pleasing, and the long road to emotional healing.In this heartfelt conversation, Chrissy opens up about the survival patterns she developed as a young girl trying to be “good” enough to be loved and how those patterns followed her into adulthood. She shares her experience growing up in a fractured home, enduring emotional pain in silence, and turning to food as both comfort and protection. Through therapy, spiritual grounding, and creative expression, Chrissy began the deep work of untangling her worth from performance. We explore the cost of being the peacemaker, the fear of being truly seen, and the challenge of letting go of perfection. Chrissy reflects on her journey into acting, the power of being chosen for a role that mirrored her own struggles, and how her latest children’s book is helping the next generation talk about emotions that many of us were taught to suppress. This is an honest, soul-stirring episode about the courage it takes to stop performing and start healing from the inside out.__________________Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe: Instagram: @rootedrecoverystoriesTiktok: @patrickcusterprojectYouTube: @rootedrecoverystoriesFacebook: @rootedrecoverystoriesWebsite: www.rootedrecoverystories.com__________________Cast:Patrick Custer - HostInstagram: @thepatrickcusterTiktok: @thepatrickcusterYouTube: @thepatrickcusterFacebook: @thepatrickcusterWebsite: https://linktr.ee/patrickcusterChrissy Metz - GuestInsta: @chrissymetzFacebook: @chrissymetzofficialYoutube: @chrissymetzmusic Tiktok: @chrissymetzX: @chrissymetzWebsite: www.chrissymetzmusic.comSpotify: Chrissy Metz__________________Get Help (addiction, mental health/trauma):Promises Behavioral HealthCall: (888) 648-4098Website: www.promises.comInstagram: @promises_bh__________________About Chrissy Metz: Emmy and two-time Golden Globe nominee Chrissy Metz stars on the award-winning NBC series "This Is Us,” winner of the 2018 and 2019 SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series and People's Choice Award for "Favorite New TV Drama.” Chrissy recently starred as Joyce Smith in the hit 20th Century Fox faith-based film, BREAKTHROUGH. She also performs “I’m Standing With You” on the Breakthrough soundtrack, written by 10-time Academy Award nominee Diane Warren. Chrissy performed this song at the 2019 ACM Awards. Chrissy is currently working on her debut country album.Chrissy recently guest-starred on the hit comedy series “The Last OG” with Tracy Morgan, and the NBC hit series “Superstore". Chrissy is best known for her roles in American Horror Story: Freak Show, Sierra Burgess is a Loser, My Name is Earl, and Entourage, to name a few.Chrissy recently released her memoir, THIS IS ME, which debuted at #1 on the NY Times Bestseller List. People magazine named her to the "Ones to Watch” and “50 Most Beautiful."
From buried hurt to healing harmonies, Caleb Lovely reveals how trauma shaped his truth and gave rise to a song that speaks volumes. In this powerful episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, host Patrick Custer sits down with Middle Tennessee artist Caleb Lovely, a celebrated songwriter and the creator of the poignant new single, "Triggers." In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Caleb shares his deeply personal journey through trauma, family dysfunction, and the long road to healing.From a seemingly perfect childhood to the emotional moment he was pointing a gun at his father, Caleb reflects on the disconnect between his family's outward appearance and the struggles they faced behind closed doors. He discusses the impact of his brother's autism on their family dynamics, the challenges of moving across 12 states, and his quest for validation and connection. Join us as Caleb opens up about his experiences with emotional unavailability, the search for intimacy, and the transformative power of forgiveness. This episode is a testament to resilience, healing, and the importance of sharing our stories. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help spread awareness about mental health and the power of recovery!__________________Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe: Instagram: @rootedrecoverystoriesTiktok: @patrickcusterprojectYouTube: @rootedrecoverystoriesFacebook: @rootedrecoverystoriesWebsite: www.rootedrecoverystories.com__________________Cast:Patrick Custer - HostInstagram: @thepatrickcusterTiktok: @thepatrickcusterYouTube: @thepatrickcusterFacebook: @thepatrickcusterWebsite: https://linktr.ee/patrickcusterCaleb Lovely - GuestListen to “Triggers” (click here) Instagram: @caleblovelyYouTube: @calovelySpotify: Caleb Lovely__________________Get Help (addiction, mental health/trauma):Promises Behavioral HealthCall: (888) 648-4098Website: www.promises.comInstagram: @promises_bh__________________About Caleb Lovely: Raised in an abusive childhood, Caleb Lovely was by all odds doomed to stay miserable. Yet somehow he used every detail of his past to write songs that magnify the way you experience music. His story has set him up to be one of the most prolific songwriters, gifted guitar players, and passionate singers of our generation. After too many years of living in almost every other city in the U.S and being told relentlessly to move to “Music City” I took only the guitar on my back and began my life in Nashville. Music is the only thing that has always made sense to me in every season of life. Now having collected even more stories over the years, I am devoted to creating songs that will make you truly fall in love with the feeling that only music can give you.
From broken beginnings to bold breakthroughs, Amy Darling shares how she hit rock bottom and rose again, louder than ever. Join host Patrick Custer as he sits down with the incredible Amy Darling, a Nashville-based rock and roll front woman, DJ, and model known for her fierce authenticity and electrifying performances.In this conversation, Amy shares her powerful story of survival, recovery, and self-reinvention. From her early life in the Bay Area, where she faced the challenges of a broken family and bullying, to her tumultuous journey through addiction and the music industry, Amy opens up about the struggles and triumphs that have shaped her. Discover how she navigated the complexities of body image, relationships, and the allure of drugs and alcohol, all while pursuing her passion for music. This episode dives deep into the realities of addiction, the impact of trauma, and the journey toward self-acceptance and healing. Tune in for an inspiring and relatable discussion that highlights the importance of community, understanding, and the power of sharing our stories.__________________Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe: Instagram: @rootedrecoverystoriesTiktok: @patrickcusterprojectYouTube: @rootedrecoverystoriesFacebook: @rootedrecoverystoriesWebsite: www.rootedrecoverystories.com__________________Cast:Patrick Custer - HostInstagram: @thepatrickcusterTiktok: @thepatrickcusterYouTube: @thepatrickcusterFacebook: @thepatrickcusterWebsite: https://linktr.ee/patrickcusterAmy Darling - GuestInstagram: @amyxdarlingxYouTube: @amydarlingmusic Spotify: Amy Darling__________________Get Help (addiction, mental health/trauma):Promises Behavioral HealthCall: (888) 648-4098Website: www.promises.comInstagram: @promises_bh__________________About Amy Darling: Amy Darling is a Nashville-based singer, DJ, and model whose artistry radiates raw emotion, rock and roll grit, and magnetic stage presence. With a voice that channels both vulnerability and power, she blends vintage soul with modern rebellion captivating audiences through electrifying performances and genre-defying DJ sets. Originally from the Bay Area, Amy's journey through the highs and lows of the music industry has shaped her into a bold and authentic creative force. Her passion for storytelling through sound is deeply informed by personal resilience, giving her performances an unmatched depth and energy. Whether she's fronting a band or commanding a dance floor, Amy creates unforgettable experiences rooted in connection, emotion, and fierce individuality. Her work continues to challenge norms, celebrate self-expression, and inspire others to embrace their own truth.
Music was her lifeline in a world of chaos. Join host Patrick Custer for an intimate conversation with Firerose Cyrus, an Australian-born singer-songwriter whose inspiring journey of resilience, recovery, and reinvention is as powerful as her music.In this heartfelt conversation, Firerose shares her experiences of chasing dreams across the globe while battling a silent storm. From her early days surrounded by classical musicians to discovering her passion for pop music, she opens up about the challenges she faced, including the struggles with addiction and the journey to reclaim her power. This episode is a beautiful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the power of art, sponsors, and religion to heal. Tune in for a story that goes beyond the headlines and dives deep into the heart of resilience. __________________Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe: Instagram: @rootedrecoverystoriesTiktok: @patrickcusterprojectYouTube: @rootedrecoverystoriesFacebook: @rootedrecoverystoriesWebsite: www.rootedrecoverystories.com__________________Cast:Patrick Custer - HostInstagram: @thepatrickcusterTiktok: @thepatrickcusterYouTube: @thepatrickcusterFacebook: @thepatrickcusterWebsite: https://linktr.ee/patrickcusterFirerose Cyrus - GuestInstagram: @fireroseYouTube: @firerose-cyrusSpotify: @fireroseWebsite: www.firerosemusic.com__________________Get Help (addiction, mental health/trauma):Promises Behavioral HealthCall: (888) 648-4098Website: www.promises.comInstagram: @promises_bh__________________About Firerose: When Firerose Cyrus talks about her lifelong passion for songwriting, she means that she’s had it since the time she could literally talk. Coming home from grade school, she would pen tunes about her day, and felt that music was the meaning of life. The Sydney, Australia-born and raised, Nashville, Tennessee-based artist has always written songs to process her deepest emotions. “I always believed that my purpose on earth was fulfilled by music,” says Firerose, “and helping people up with a song I wrote gives everything so much meaning. I write from a place in my soul that’s unexplainable and I’m incredibly grateful for this gift that allows me to touch people so profoundly.” Applauded by Rolling Stone for her "atmospheric ballads and lilting leads” Firerose is a unique talent and internationally critically acclaimed artist. With her unmistakably pure crystalline voice, Firerose transcends genres and captivates listeners with her deeply meaningful lyrics about the miracles God has performed in her life. Her fearlessly honest songwriting and distinctive melodic style are matched with her powerful personal story of life-saving faith and overcoming addiction. Firerose is an authentic storyteller and her inspirational songs that celebrate rising from the ashes are undeniably uplifting. Firerose's hit “Plans” climbed to No. 16 on both Billboard's Adult Contemporary chart and Mediabase's Adult Contemporary chart in 2023. Firerose has graced the Grand Ole Opry stage many times and performed on national television including “ACM Honors,” “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” “Good Morning America,” "LIVE with Kelly and Ryan," “GMA3” and has been featured in Rolling Stone, Billboard, People Magazine, American Songwriter, Stellar Magazine, Music Row, Entertainment Tonight, Us Weekly, Taste of Country, CNN, Fox News, iHeartRadio, CMT, The Today Show Australia, Today In Nashville and many more.
Taylor Armstrong's life hasn't always been all glitz and glam. Behind reality TV fame lies a story of struggle, survival, and strength. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Taylor Armstrong, a former star of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, as she opens up about her harrowing journey through an abusive marriage and her path to healing. Taylor shares her experiences of living under the scrutiny of reality TV while battling her own traumas off screen, revealing the stark contrast between the glamorous facade and the painful reality she faced behind closed doors.Join us as Taylor discusses the red flags she ignored, the impact of emotional and physical abuse, and the moment she realized she had to reclaim her life for herself and her daughter. She reflects on the challenges of navigating relationships, the struggle for self-identity, and the importance of self-forgiveness.In addition, Taylor introduces her new book, The Comeback Queen, which offers a roadmap for anyone looking to overcome trauma and embrace a brighter future. With actionable steps and a supportive community, Taylor's message is one of hope and resilience.Whether you've experienced trauma or are simply seeking inspiration to live your best life, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear Taylor's incredible story of survival and transformation!LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!__________________Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe: Instagram: @rootedrecoverystoriesTiktok: @patrickcusterprojectYouTube: @rootedrecoverystoriesFacebook: @rootedrecoverystoriesWebsite: www.rootedrecoverystories.com__________________Cast:Patrick Custer - HostInstagram: @thepatrickcusterTiktok: @thepatrickcusterYouTube: @thepatrickcusterFacebook: @thepatrickcusterWebsite: https://linktr.ee/patrickcusterTaylor Armstrong - GuestInstagram: @taylorarmstrongFacebook: @officialtaylorarmstrongX: @TaylorArmstrongWebsite: www.taylorarmstrong.com__________________Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):Promises Behavioral HealthCall: (888) 648-4098Website: www.promises.comInstagram: @promises_bh__________________About Taylor Armstrong: Taylor Armstrong is an original cast member of the hit Bravo show, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. But behind the glamorous façade of The Real Housewives, Armstrong had her own personal drama. She hid a very dark secret; her husband, Russell, had been physically, verbally, emotionally and financially abusing her for years. Following the familiar pattern of many domestic violence survivors before her, Armstrong witnessed domestic violence in her home as a young child – the abuse of her mother at the hands of her father. Thankfully, Taylor was able to break the cycle of violence. After six years of abuse with Russell, she found the courage to leave. Tragically, soon after, Russell took his own life. Armstrong and her young daughter, Kennedy, found themselves starting their lives over while the whole world watched. In 2012, Armstrong authored her first book, Hiding from Reality: My Story of Love, Loss and Finding the Courage Within. The autobiographical account of Armstrong’s life and personal experience with domestic violence became a New York Times bestseller. She is preparing to release her latest book "The Comeback Queen" this year.
Struggle Jennings’ journey has been one of trials, transformation, and triumph. In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, we continue our conversation with him as he shares the exciting news about his new single, “Only God Knows” featuring Jelly Roll.Struggle opens up about his battle with addiction, life after prison, and the role faith and community played in his healing. We dive into the struggles of managing anxiety, the power of letting go, and how the darkest moments can lead to the greatest growth. We touch on Sound Sobriety, Struggle's new recovery program, and the other ways he's giving back.This isn’t just a conversation about recovery—it’s about resilience, service, and using past pain to help others. Struggle’s story is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond redemption.LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!__________________Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe: Instagram: @rootedrecoverystoriesTiktok: @patrickcusterprojectYouTube: @rootedrecoverystoriesFacebook: @rootedrecoverystoriesWebsite: www.rootedrecoverystories.com__________________Cast:Patrick Custer - HostInstagram: @thepatrickcusterTiktok: @thepatrickcusterYouTube: @thepatrickcusterFacebook: @thepatrickcusterWebsite: https://linktr.ee/patrickcusterStruggle Jennings - GuestInstagram: @iamstruggleYouTube: @strugglejenningsTiktok: @strugglejenningsWebsite: www.strugglejennings.com__________________Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):Promises Behavioral HealthCall: (888) 648-4098Website: www.promises.comInstagram: @promises_bh__________________Production:Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)Email: info@thecastcollective.comInstagram: @TheCastCollective__________________About Struggle Jennings: The grandson of Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter has been nothing short of a true Outlaw from a long line of gangsters, outlaws, and rockstars, making his family lineage proud. An RIAA Certified Gold-selling artist for his collab with Jelly Roll on Fall In The Fall, and #1 Billboard Charting artist for "God We Need You Now". Struggle has revolutionized a new style of music, blending Country and rap influences and making ground-breaking country rap styles. Contrary to his family’s upbringing, Struggle and his single mom grew up in low-income housing, and being the black sheep of the family, he fought through the streets of West Nashville and into the studio where he would create the foundation for what has become his contribution to the Jennings family legacy. Struggle's message of strength, determination, and courage in the face of adversity continue to connect and resonate with people around- the -world. By sharing his story with honesty and passion he has developed a large and loyal fanbase who relate not only to his music but also to his journey. Since being released from prison in 2016, where he served a five-year drug-related sentence, Struggle has performed for sold-out crowds across the country and released multiple projects.
Struggle Jennings might have the most fitting name in music. His journey has been anything but easy, and his music reflects every battle he’s fought. In this episode, we explore how he blends country and hip-hop to tell his story. He opens up about losing his father at a young age, growing up in a tough environment, and the struggles that led him down a dark path.Struggle shares his experiences with addiction, incarceration, and the lessons he learned along the way. He talks about the moment he decided to take control of his life and how music became his way of turning pain into purpose. We dive into the importance of accountability, the power of storytelling, and how he’s using his platform to uplift others who feel lost. This isn’t just a conversation about music. It’s about resilience, redemption, and proving that no struggle is too big to overcome. Tune in for an honest and inspiring look at his journey!LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!__________________Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe: Instagram: @rootedrecoverystoriesTiktok: @patrickcusterprojectYouTube: @rootedrecoverystoriesFacebook: @rootedrecoverystoriesWebsite: www.rootedrecoverystories.com__________________Cast:Patrick Custer - HostInstagram: @thepatrickcusterTiktok: @thepatrickcusterYouTube: @thepatrickcusterFacebook: @thepatrickcusterWebsite: https://linktr.ee/patrickcusterStruggle Jennings - GuestInstagram: @iamstruggleYouTube: @strugglejenningsTiktok: @strugglejenningsWebsite: www.strugglejennings.com__________________Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):Promises Behavioral HealthCall: (888) 648-4098Website: www.promises.comInstagram: @promises_bh__________________Production:Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)Email: info@thecastcollective.comInstagram: @TheCastCollective__________________About Struggle Jennings: The grandson of Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter has been nothing short of a true Outlaw from a long line of gangsters, outlaws, and rockstars, making his family lineage proud. An RIAA Certified Gold-selling artist for his collab with Jelly Roll on Fall In The Fall, and #1 Billboard Charting artist for "God We Need You Now". Struggle has revolutionized a new style of music, blending Country and rap influences and making ground-breaking country rap styles. Contrary to his family’s upbringing, Struggle and his single mom grew up in low-income housing, and being the black sheep of the family, he fought through the streets of West Nashville and into the studio where he would create the foundation for what has become his contribution to the Jennings family legacy. Struggle's message of strength, determination, and courage in the face of adversity continue to connect and resonate with people around- the -world. By sharing his story with honesty and passion he has developed a large and loyal fanbase who relate not only to his music but also to his journey. Since being released from prison in 2016, where he served a five-year drug-related sentence, Struggle has performed for sold-out crowds across the country and released multiple projects.
One secret kept him safe. One truth would leave him with nowhere to go. For Josh Cloud, music wasn’t just a dream—it was his identity. But after American Idol and the contract that followed stripped him of his ability to perform, he lost the only thing that made him feel alive. The silence left space for something else to creep in—fear, isolation, and addiction.In this deeply personal conversation, host @thepatrickcuster sits down with Josh to uncover the messages that shaped his silence—from childhood warnings that threatened his very survival to an industry that made it clear: If they knew who you really were, you’d be spit out and forgotten. He opens up about the impossible ultimatum he faced as a child, the trauma that followed him into adulthood, and the alcohol that became his only escape.But this isn’t just a story about loss. It’s about taking back what was stolen. Josh shares how he fought to reclaim his voice, his identity, and his purpose—and how he’s finally living on his own terms. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt like they had to hide to survive.LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!__________________Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe: Instagram: @rootedrecoverystoriesTiktok: @patrickcusterprojectYouTube: @rootedrecoverystoriesFacebook: @rootedrecoverystoriesWebsite: www.rootedrecoverystories.com__________________Cast:Patrick Custer - HostInstagram: @thepatrickcusterTiktok: @thepatrickcusterYouTube: @thepatrickcusterFacebook: @thepatrickcusterWebsite: https://linktr.ee/patrickcusterJosh Cloud - GuestInstagram: @joshcloudThe Big Drag Bus - Josh's Nashville-based comedy show led by dazzling drag queens on wheels!Instagram: @bigdragbusYouTube: @bigdragbusWebsite: www.bigdragbus.com__________________Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):Promises Behavioral HealthCall: (888) 648-4098Website: www.promises.comInstagram: @promises_bh__________________Production:Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)Email: info@thecastcollective.comInstagram: @TheCastCollective__________________About Josh Cloud: Josh Cloud is a man whose life revolved around music. He moved to Nashville to pursue that dream at 19 and later became a finalist on American Idol. In 2021, Josh started a thriving new business called "The Big Drag Bus" in Nashville where he continues to live today.
What if the place that was supposed to feel like home felt more like a prison? In this episode of Rooted Recovery Stories, Patrick Custer sits down with media strategist, Melissa Bull, who opens up about growing up in a chaotic home shaped by her mother’s struggles with hoarding and mental health. She shares raw, unfiltered memories of navigating a childhood filled with secrecy, perfectionism, and the emotional toll of living in a cluttered, unpredictable environment. Melissa reflects on the pivotal moments that led to her parents’ divorce, the deep sense of isolation she felt, and the role her grandmother played as a rare source of stability and hope. Despite everything, she found a way to break free from the patterns of her past—and she’s here to share how she did it.This conversation is a powerful reminder that your past doesn’t define you, and healing is always possible. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, survival, and the ongoing journey toward recovery.LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE your thoughts in the comments!__________________Follow/Watch/Listen/Subscribe: Instagram: @rootedrecoverystoriesTiktok: @patrickcusterprojectYouTube: @rootedrecoverystoriesFacebook: @rootedrecoverystoriesWebsite: www.rootedrecoverystories.com__________________Cast:Patrick Custer - HostInstagram:@thepatrickcusterTiktok: @thepatrickcusterYouTube: @thepatrickcusterFacebook: @thepatrickcusterWebsite: https://linktr.ee/patrickcusterMelissa Bull - GuestInstagram: @melissalovgrenbTiktok: @melissalovgrenb__________________Get Help (adiction, mental health/trauma):Promises Behavioral HealthCall: (888) 648-4098Website:www.promises.comInstagram: @promises_bh__________________Production:Produced and Edited by "The Cast Collective" (Nashville, TN)Email: info@thecastcollective.comInstagram:@TheCastCollective__________________About Melissa Bull: Melissa Bull is a content strategist from a small town just outside of Rockford, Illinois. Bull attended Morehead State University in Kentucky where she was an active member of their Cheerleading team. Upon graduating in 2014 Melissa Bull continued cheering beyond her college career. Along with her passion for cheer she began pursuing a career in content strategizing where she coaches others on how to develop and plan certain content in order to help meet their business goals. Bull now works for the content house Viralish based in Nashville, Tennessee, where she assists them in creating and marketing their social media content.
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