not all there: stories of sobriety and recovery

In this riveting episode of Not All There, Chad Johnson sits down with Dr. Harold Jonas, the founder of Sobrlife, to unpack a truly remarkable journey of addiction, survival, and redemption. Dr. J’s story begins like many who have struggled with addiction, but his path took him to harrowing depths that few have survived. From shooting heroin on the streets of New York City during the height of the AIDS epidemic to finding his way to a fulfilling sober life on Florida’s sunny beaches, his story is one of unimaginable extremes and ultimate triumph. Never a dull moment, the episode is charged with energy as Dr. J and Chad dive into the wild realities of addiction—the chaos, the heartbreak, and the hope. Together, they explore how addiction can lead people to the darkest corners of life, but also how recovery can bring them to places of peace, purpose, and joy. With honesty and humor, the conversation spans the gritty streets of New York to the tranquil shores of Florida, painting a vivid picture of the incredible potential for transformation in recovery. Dr. J now dedicates his life to helping others on their own journeys to sobriety, offering wisdom and support to those who need it most. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s experienced the highs and lows of addiction or simply wants to be inspired by the resilience of the human spirit. Takeaways: ·      Dr. Jonas's early life was marked by addiction in his family. ·      He found solace in drugs at a young age, feeling a sense of belonging. ·      Recovery is a continuous journey that requires support and community. ·      Dr. Jonas emphasizes the importance of sharing pain to lessen it. ·      He faced significant challenges in his marriage due to addiction. ·      The loss of his son profoundly impacted his perspective on life and recovery. ·      Dr. Jonas advocates for harm reduction and open conversations about sobriety. ·      Sober Life aims to create a supportive community for those in recovery. ·      He believes in the power of resilience and the importance of living fully. ·      Dr. Jonas's story illustrates the complexities of addiction and recovery. How to find Dr. J: jonas@sobrlife.com https://sobrlife.com/ https://www.haroldjonas.com/

In this wide-open and adventurous conversation, host Chad Johnson sits down with Ryan Lee, the founder of Capsule Adventures, a sober travel company that blends exploration with recovery. Ryan takes us through his remarkable journey—from the grind of corporate America to hitting rock bottomin New Orleans, where he sought sobriety, and the winding path in between.Along the way, he discovered how to combine his love of travel with his commitment to living sober, ultimately creating a space where others canexperience the world without alcohol.Hold on tight—this ride through Ryan’s life is raw, funny, and inspiring.Spoiler alert: he makes it out alive…and sober.

A Navy SEAL’s raw and redemptive journey through trauma, addiction,and recovery — and how storytelling became his way home.In this powerful and revealing conversation, Dr. Dice takes us on an unforgettable journey from a turbulent childhood in Northern California to the elite ranks of the Navy SEALs—and later, into the depths of addiction and the long climb back to recovery. With raw honesty and insight, he opens upabout the mental and emotional toll of SEAL training, the hidden battles that followed, and the turning point that led him to seek help.Dr. Dice shares how storytelling became a lifeline in his healing process, emphasizing the critical role of therapy and community support for veterans, first responders, and anyone confronting trauma. His story is a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to face one’spast head-on.We also dive into his book, After the Trident, a candidexploration of addiction and recovery that offers hope, understanding, and practical wisdom for those struggling—as well as for the loved ones who stand beside them.Takeaways:The transition from military life to civilian life can be difficult, especially with addiction.Therapy and support groups play a crucial role in recovery.Sharing personal stories can help others feel less alone in their struggles.The importance of building trust within communities of veterans and first responders.Dr. Dice emphasizes the need for understanding addiction as a broader issue.His book aims to shed light on the realities of addiction and recovery.Recovery is a continuous journey that requires ongoing effort and support. You can find Dr. Dice here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdice/Website: https://bishopdicedefense.com/Book Website: Dr Dice Book

In this powerful episode of Not All There, host Chad Johnsonsits down with William Person, a former Team USA bobsled athlete, to talk about the highs and hidden costs of competing at the elite level. William opens up about his journey from the thrill of international competition to the devastating reality of living with the effects of CTE (Chronic TraumaticEncephalopathy) — a degenerative brain condition caused by repeated head injuries.Their conversation dives deep into the emotional toll of identity loss after sports, the intersection of addiction, mental health, and recovery, and how community and vulnerability become lifelines in healing. William shareshis ongoing fight to manage the long-term symptoms of brain injury, his path toward mental health advocacy, and his exploration of treatments like hyperbarictherapy as tools for recovery and hope.This episode is a raw, insightful look into the unseen side of athletic excellence — and a call to end the silence around brain injuries, addiction, and mental health in sports. The journey of mental health advocacy is deeply personal.CTEis a significant issue in sports, especially for athletes.Understanding addiction is crucial in recovery processes.Personal experiences shape the way we advocate for others.The importance of community support in mental health recovery.Hyperbaric treatment shows promise for brain injuries.Advocacy can stem from personal loss and tragedy.Raising awareness about mental health is essential for athletes.The stigma around mental health needs to be addressed.Every athlete's story can contribute to a larger conversation about health. William’s GoFundMe is: https://gofund.me/93ff9c6e  Links to William’s SocialMedia: @onemanwithachamber          One man with a chamber HBOT (@hyperbarichealing) | TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@hyperbarichealing?_t=ZT-8zD0dNeEvPi&_r=1                        

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, host Chad speaks with Tommy G, the Hockey Town Hypnotist, about the transformative power of hypnosis and hypnotherapy. They explore Tommy's journey from skepticism to becoming a skilled hypnotist, the techniques he uses to help people overcome addiction and trauma, and the scientific principles behind hypnotherapy. The discussion also highlights the mission of the Tom Silver Foundation, which aims to provide free hypnotherapy services to those in need, continuing the legacy of Tom Silver, a pioneer in the field. Tommy shares insights from his experiences and the importance of addressing underlying issues in mental health and recovery.

In this captivating episode of "Not All There," Chad engages in a wildly funny yet profoundly serious conversation with Kate, a woman whose life story is nothing short of miraculous. From surviving multiple overdoses, a heart attack, and a coma, Kate has navigated through the darkest corners of addiction to find recovery and spirituality in the most unexpected place—paganism. Join us as Kate shares how she transformed her life, found peace in her practice, and became a beacon of hope in her community. Her candid humor and awe-inspiring resilience will not only make you laugh but also leave you feeling uplifted and better about life. Don't miss this unforgettable conversation with one solid witch who turned her trials into triumphs.   Takeaways: ·      We're all a bit fucked up, and that's fine. ·      Finding spirituality can be a crucial part of recovery. ·      Trauma from childhood can shape our adult lives. ·      Self-acceptance is key to healing and recovery. ·      Spiritual practices can provide comfort and guidance. ·      Astrology can help us understand our personalities better. ·      Forgiveness is essential for personal growth. ·      Community support plays a vital role in recovery. ·      Embracing both light and dark aspects of ourselves is important. ·      Living in alignment with nature can enhance our spiritual practices.   Links to Kate’s Organizations:  www.linkedin.com/in/kate-dawes-43159a100/ www.decoachrecovery.com www.empoweroutcomes.com www.frontlinescommunity.com

In this episode, Chad chats with Adam B, a guy who’s not only survived addiction but now spends his free time making the rest of us look lazy with his dedication to recovery and community service. Adam opens up about his wild ride through addiction, how his family dynamics threw in a few plot twists, and why therapy isn’t just for people with too many houseplants. They dive into the importance of community support and service work, because, apparently, being a good human is part of the deal. Adam also shares how mental health and addiction love to team up like an annoying buddy-cop duo, and why understanding and compassion are the real MVPs in this fight. Oh, and for you history buffs, they also dig into the rich history of recovery in Northeast Ohio. Spoiler alert: it's not all about cornfields and football. Adam's Shout Outs: Recovery Resources - https://recres.org/ Metro Health - https://www.metrohealth.org/ Three Arches Foundation - https://www.threearchesfoundation.org/ Save A Warrior - https://saveawarrior.org/ One Ohio Recovery Foundation - https://www.oneohiofoundation.com/ Takeaways: ·       Service work is crucial in recovery. ·       Generational trauma can impact addiction. ·       Therapy plays a vital role in healing. ·       Understanding dual diagnosis is essential. ·       Community support enhances recovery efforts. ·       Personal stories can inspire others. ·       Recovery is a lifelong journey. ·       Addiction can manifest in various forms. ·       It's important to normalize discussions about mental health. ·       Advocacy for recovery resources is necessary. ikg4FQojcuhNiSNNpXYf

In this episode of the "Not All There" podcast, host Chad sits down with the insightful Dr. Howard Gluss, a renowned Clinical Psychologist, Author, Speaker, and seasoned Radio and Television host. Dr. Gluss brings a wealth of experience in areas such as Chronic Illness, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Adolescent and Geriatric Psychology, LGBTQ+ Issues, Couples Therapy, and Substance Abuse. Chad and Dr. Gluss dive deep into the challenges of sobriety, from the often-overlooked boredom that can come with early recovery to the more nuanced struggles of maintaining a sober lifestyle. They explore the power of art therapy as a unique tool for healing and perseverance, shedding light on how creativity can be a lifeline for those in recovery. Throughout the conversation, Chad’s humor and Dr. Gluss’s profound insights create an engaging dynamic, making serious topics like overcoming past traumas both accessible and relatable. This episode is a blend of thoughtful discussion and light-hearted moments, offering listeners valuable takeaways on the journey to sobriety and the importance of perseverance. For more information about Dr. Howard Gluss: https://www.drglife.com https://www.daraknothealth.com/santafe-wellness drhowardgluss@live.com For more information about the Al-Impics: https://www.al-impics.com/

In this conversation, Chad and Joe B. discuss their experiences with addiction and recovery. They talk about the challenges of living a sober life and the lack of guidance and support after getting sober. Joe B. shares his journey of getting sober and how he struggled with finding his identity and fitting in. They also discuss their experiences with drugs and the impact it had on their lives. Joe B. talks about his passion for photography and how it became his artistic voice. The conversation highlights the importance of finding purpose and support in recovery. Joe B shares his journey of alcoholism and recovery, highlighting the moments of chaos and self-destruction that led him to seek help. He describes his experiences of moving from place to place, getting married, and hiding his drinking. Joe B emphasizes the importance of surrendering and seeking support from others in recovery. Joe B concludes by discussing the joy and fulfillment he finds in helping others on their own recovery journeys. Keywords  addiction, recovery, sober life, guidance, support, identity, fitting in, drugs, photography, purpose, alcoholism, recovery, surrender, support, sponsor, 12 steps, transformation, joy, fulfillment Takeaways The recovery industry provides tools and information for recognizing addiction and seeking help, but there is a lack of guidance and support for living a sober life. Getting sober is just the first step, and many people struggle with finding their identity and purpose after getting sober. Drugs and alcohol can provide a temporary escape and a sense of belonging, but they ultimately lead to more problems and hinder personal growth. Finding a passion or creative outlet can be a powerful tool in recovery and help individuals find their voice and purpose. Having a supportive community and seeking professional help are crucial for long-term recovery and maintaining a sober life. Alcoholism can lead to a life of chaos and self-destruction. Surrendering and seeking support from others in recovery is crucial for finding lasting sobriety. Helping others on their recovery journeys brings joy and fulfillment. Sound Bites "Once you get through rehab, you're like, okay, here you go. Go get him, tiger. And you're like, well, what the fuck am I doing now? Like, I don't have my shit together." "I just thought that I normalized and rationalized the way that I drank and used drugs to the point where it's like, everybody does this. They just don't talk about it." "I have to stay in the moment. I have to stay present. I have to stay in the middle of the herd." "I'm not this scheming, felonious dick that is not present for my relationships that cheats and lies even when the truth is good enough." "Getting outside of yourself and doing something for somebody else every day is really important. Just do something for somebody else each day. Get outside of yourself. You'll find that life has more meaning than you ever thought that it did."

In this chat, Chad and Missy dive into the delightful topic of loss, tying it to the ever-cheerful subjects of addiction and recovery. They swap war stories about losing their toxic relationship with alcohol and bidding farewell to some dearly departed loved ones. Faith, humility, gratitude, and service get a nod as essential survival tools in this game we call life. They also touch on the vital need for a support system and the brutal honesty required to face one's own mess. Ultimately, the conversation underscores how recovery can morph these grim reaper moments into somewhat meaningful life lessons. Cheers to finding silver linings in the darkest clouds! Takeaways Loss is a significant aspect of addiction and recovery, including the loss of one's relationship with their addiction and the loss of loved ones. Faith, humility, and gratitude are essential in dealing with loss and finding meaning in difficult situations. Being of service to others and having a support system are crucial in navigating and coping with loss. Honesty with oneself and others is key in the recovery process and in finding healing and growth. Recovery provides a framework for living an intentional and meaningful life, embracing both the joys and sorrows that come with it.

Join Chad as he chats with Rich G. about the emotional rollercoaster of finances in recovery. Despite the promises of relief, anxiety about money still lingers, leaving them both questioning why. With humor, vulnerability, and heartfelt honesty, these two recovering alcoholics share their struggles and insecurities, paving the way to self-acceptance. Tune in for laughs, real talk, and valuable insights on navigating the financial landscape while staying sober!

In this soul-stirring episode of Not All There, Chad sits downwith Chicago-based singer and songwriter Nathan Peterson for a vulnerable conversation about grief, healing, and the quiet power of breath. Nathan opens up about his personal journey through loss, and how music,silence, and stillness became tools for survival—and eventually, transformation.Together, they explore what it means to nurture yourself without guilt, especially in a world that often asks us to put others first. Nathan shares insights into how grief isn’t something to fix or outrun, but something to befriend—one breath at a time.This episode is for anyone who’s been cracked open by life and is learning to rebuild with gentleness, truth, and love.Find more about Nathan Peterson here:https://nathanpeterson.net/

What happens when a guy hits rock bottom and insteadof staying there, builds a retreat in paradise where people heal using psychedelics? You get Andrew Tansil. In this episode, the founder of Sayulita Wellness Retreat walks us through his own mental health reckoning, how plantmedicine cracked him open (in a good way), and why healing works best when you do it with intention, honesty, and a few strangers in the jungle. It’s a conversation about tripping with purpose, facing your shadow, and choosing connectionover chaos—with just enough weird to keep it real.

⚠️ Content Warning:This episode contains a brief discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know you're not alone.Help is available.Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline anytime, 24/7.You can also visit 988lifeline.org for more resources and support.In this episode of Not All There, Chad sits down with Danielle from Craving Clarity to continue their unique and ever-evolving collaboration. Together, they dive into the cutting-edge neuroscience Danielle and her team are uncovering—exploring how the brain responds to addiction, recovery, and everything in between. Chad brings the lived experience, the stories, and just enough self-deprecating humor to keep things real, raw, and relatable.It’s a conversation that blends science and sobriety in ways that are engaging, thoughtful, and occasionally full of “where the hell are they going with this?” moments. (Don’t worry—they land the plane.)This episode is an important, fascinating ride through the brain, the bottle, and beyond—perfect for anyone curious about what makes addiction tick and how recovery rewires us. You don’t need a lab coat or a 12-step book to enjoy this one—just an open mind and maybe a sense of humor.TakeawaysThe importance of community support in recovery.Self-acceptance is a significant hurdle for many.Psychedelic-assisted therapy is gaining traction in addiction treatment.Neuroscience can help us understand the mechanisms of addiction.Cravings are complex and not fully understood.Trauma plays a crucial role in addiction and recovery.Recovery is a continuous journey, not a destination.Non-invasive brain stimulation shows promise in addiction treatment.Understanding the brain's wiring can aid in developing better therapies.Personal experiences shape our understanding of addiction and recovery.For more information on Craving Clarity:https://www.cravingclarity.co.uk/

In this thought-provoking episode, Brianna from Craving Clarity joins Chad from Not All There for a lively and engaging conversation that dives deep into the intersection of faith, science, addiction, and recovery. Together, they explore how belief systems, neuroscience, and lived experience can all coexist—and even complement one another—on the journey to sobriety.From the role of spirituality in healing, to the science behind substance use disorder, to the importance of staying curious and open-minded, Brianna and Chad offer fresh perspectives and honest reflections. This episode isn’t about picking sides—it’s about starting conversations.Whether you're newly sober, years into recovery, or simply curious about the complex web of what keeps us stuck—and what sets us free—this episode invites you to think, question, and connect. Because in recovery, keeping an open mind just might be one of the most powerful tools we have.Craving Clarity:https://www.cravingclarity.co.uk/Takeaways:Addiction is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach.Recovery involves both personal and communal efforts.Faith and spirituality can coexist with scientific understanding.Sobriety is not just about abstaining from substances; it's about active engagement in recovery.Community support is crucial for maintaining sobriety.Understanding the science behind addiction can aid in recovery.Recovery is a lifelong journey that requires ongoing effort and adaptation.People are not broken; they are evolving through their experiences.The narrative around addiction needs to shift from shame to understanding.Conversations about addiction and recovery can help break down stigma. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Craving Clarity and Addiction Research03:52 The Intersection of Faith, Spirituality, and Addiction06:28 Navigating Recovery: Faith vs. Spirituality09:21 Community and Support in Recovery12:19 The Role of Science in Understanding Addiction15:10 Personal Experiences with Faith and Recovery17:43 The Importance of Individualized Recovery Paths20:31 Cultural Perspectives on Addiction and Recovery23:11 The Need for Broader Conversations on Sobriety26:30 The Science of Addiction and Its Limitations29:28 Conclusion: Integrating Faith, Science, and Community37:18 Science vs. Faith: Understanding Perspectives41:40 The Role of Ego in Addiction and Recovery46:53 Personal Growth Through Sobriety and Spirituality48:09 The Challenges of Sustaining Sobriety55:58 The Reality of Recovery: Beyond the T-Shirt01:02:10 Collaboration for Change: Bridging Science and Faith01:05:55 educational-transition-low.wav01:06:09 educational-outro-high-short.wav

In the first of four special collaborative episodes, Not All There’s Chad Johnson and Craving Clarity’s Hajer dive deep into the way society views substance use disorder, sobriety, and recovery. It’s an eye-opening, funny, and essential conversation that challenges the outdated stigmas surrounding addiction.Together, Chad and Hajer unpack the misconceptions that often label those struggling with addiction as broken, weak, or less than. Instead, they push forward a powerful message: If you are battling addiction, you are not a failure. You are human—worthy of love, forgiveness, and a chance at a better life.With a mix of raw honesty, humor, and real talk, this episode sparks an important discussion on how we can shift societal perspectives and create a more compassionate, understanding world for those in recovery.For more about Craving Clarity—including their podcast, research, and advocacy—visit www.cravingclarity.co.uk.

In this powerful live recording from our Sober Soirée series, Jim H. takes the mic to share a raw and reflective look at his recovery journey. With honesty and humor, Jim explores how community, creativity, and vulnerability helped him face anger, rebuild relationships, and find meaning in sobriety.Sober Soirées are more than just events — they’re a lifeline. These gatherings create space for storytelling, connection, and healing, strengthening the recovery community one voice at a time. They are free to attend, but not free to create.If this episode moves you, please consider donating to the Art of Recovery Foundation. Your support helps us keep the lights on, the mics hot, and the stories flowing. Together, we’re building something real — and we need your help to keep it going.Donate Here:👉 https://givebutter.com/jq3VbW

Storyteller Kevin shares his personal journey with alcoholism, reflecting on the loss of his best friend and the struggles of sobriety. He discusses the complexities of understanding alcoholism, the challenges of relapse, and the importance of community and support in recovery. Through his experiences, he emphasizes the significance of curiosity and connection in the healing process.TakeawaysThe misconceptions about being an alcoholic.Relapse can happen even after years of sobriety.Community and support are crucial in recovery.Therapy played a significant role in his understanding of alcoholism.Art of Recovery FoundationDonate HereEmail Chad at: chad@soberchad.com

In this story, Melissa shares her personal journey throughaddiction and recovery, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and the act of showing up for oneself and others. She reflects on her early aspirations, the struggles of living with alcoholism, and the transformative power of recovery in her life.Takeaways Showing up for others is crucial in recovery.Community plays a vital role in overcoming addiction.Alcoholism can manifest even in seemingly normal lives.The journey to sobriety often starts with self-acceptance.Mental health struggles can accompany addiction.Finding a supportive network is essential for recovery.Recovery allows for a fulfilling life without substances.Therapy can help uncover deeper issues related to addiction.Honesty is a key component of sobriety.Donate for Not All There & Sober Soireeshttps://gofund.me/79c1464dArt of Recovery Foundationhttps://givebutter.com/jq3VbWhttps://www.artofrecoveryfoundation.org/

In this powerful and personal episode, recorded live at the very first Not All There Sober Soirée, Chad steps up to the mic to share his own story of addiction and recovery. Through raw honesty and dark humor, he reflects on the pain, the hope, and the healing that comes with choosing sobriety. This isn’t just a story about addiction—it’s about community, connection, and the courage to speak the truth out loud.July is our fundraising month.If this episode moved you—or if you believe in the power of storytelling to save lives—we ask for your support. Every dollar donated helps us continue producing the Not All There podcast and hosting future Sober Soirées, where voices like Chad’s (and yours) can be heard. Together, we’re building a space for healing, laughter, and hope.Thank you for walking this path with us.Donate Here:https://gofund.me/ba3c36b9https://notalltherepod.com/https://www.artofrecoveryfoundation.org/