Avoiding the Addiction Affliction

Westwords Consulting, LLC

When does it stop being a party and start becoming a problem? Is there a way to steer clear of addiction? Every Wednesday, Mike McGowan explores substance use disorders with expert guests.

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310 episodes
Updated July 29

Episodes310

Newest first

Jun 4, 2025 · 31 min
"We Are What We Eat" with Lis Schmelzer
What we feed our bodies has a tremendous effect on our physical and mental health. Lis Schmelzer discusses the importance of being aware of how what we consume affects all our bodies' systems. She also discusses the role of functional medicine in bringing our bodies and minds into a state of well being. Lis is a Clinical Nutritionist, Nutrition Sales Executive, and wellness advocate. Additional information and Lis's contact information can be found at https://nourishwisconsin.com/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host or Westwords Consulting. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
May 28, 2025 · 23 min
"The Need Still Exists" with Martina Gollin-Graves
Mental health needs are at an all time high. Mental Health America Wisconsin is an organization that helps people in desperate need of immediate help. Funding for their Uplift Wisconsin Statewide Warmline, which took 24,000 calls in 2024, was abruptly cut by the federal government recently. Martina Gollin-Graves, the Executive Director and CEO of Mental Health America Wisconsin, discusses their work, their services, and the challenges they face to continue serving people in need. Martina and Mental Health America Wisconsin can be supported and reached at https://www.mhawisconsin.org/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host or Westwords Consulting. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
May 21, 2025 · 29 min
"Stop the Threat - Stop the Stigma" with Adam Meyers
"Keep it to yourself" is not a great tag line when it comes to your mental health. It's even less healthy when you're a police officer and deal with trauma daily. Adam Meyers discusses his work and the crisis that led him to addressing his and others' mental health. Adam has been a Police Officer in Wisconsin for 23 years. He is also a Certified Peer Specialist in Wisconsin and founder of "Stop the Threat - Stop the Stigma." Adam and "Stop the Threat - Stop the Stigma" can be reached at https://stopthethreatstopthestigma.org/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
May 14, 2025 · 31 min
"Finding the Rarest Flower" with K. J. Aiello
K.J. Aiello is a Canadian who describes herself as a mentally ill writer. It is, she says, who she is. K.J. discusses her fabulous new book, "The Monster and The Mirror." It's a unique blend of memoir, research, and cultural criticism in which K.J. tries to understand her own mental illness using "The Lord of the Rings," "Game of Thrones," and other stories as guides to heroism and agency as well as cautionary tales of how mental illness is easily stereotyped as bad and violent. K.J. and her work can be accessed at https://www.kjaiello.ca/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
May 7, 2025 · 32 min
"Innovation" with Dr. Mark Hrymoc
The field of addiction medicine and mental health has seen incredible innovation over the past two decades. Dr. Mark Hrymoc discusses those innovations and where they may lead. Dr. Hrymoc is the Founder of the Mental Health Center in Los Angeles, California. He has extensive expertise in the psychopharmacology of addiction and other mental health disorders. He is double board-certified in General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry and was previously board-certified in Addiction Medicine. Dr. Hrymoc previously held the position of Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA, where he supervised training psychiatrists at the Addiction Psychiatry Clinic. He and the Mental Health Center can be reached at https://www.mentalhealthctr.com/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Apr 30, 2025 · 38 min
"It Always Comes Back To You" with Dr. Jason Giles
Drugs don't care where you grew up, went to school, or what you majored in. When you develop destructive habits, though, you have an opportunity to turn your life around by developing new, healthier habits. Dr. Jason Giles discusses the road to recovery from substance use disorders. Dr. Giles is a graduate of University of California Berkeley. He earned a degree in molecular biology and then earned his medical degree from UC Davis. Dr. Giles completed an internship in General Surgery, residency in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, and earned board certifications in Anesthesiology and Addiction Medicine. He was a cardiac anesthesiologist and pain specialist before devoting his full attention to addiction medicine starting in 2005. He is the author of a new book, "The Addiction Doctors Manual for Behavioral Health Technicians: What to Do When You Don't Know What to Do" and a previous book, "Outsmart Your Addiction." His books can be found at https://www.amazon.com/Addiction-Doctors-Manual-Behavioral-Technicians/dp/1735081914 and https://www.amazon.com/Outsmart-Your-Addiction-Powerful-Developed/dp/1735081906 Dr. Giles can be reached at https://addictiondoctors.com/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Apr 23, 2025 · 29 min
"Moving Past Surviving to Thriving" with Katy Arvidson
It is not trite to say that some people see challenges as obstacles and others see them as opportunities. Katy Arvidson was ten years old when she was diagnosed with Pompe disease. In spite of that diagnosis, she kept going and eventually obtained her Master's Degree in Social Work. Katy is currently Ms. Wheelchair Alaska, embracing a platform of not just surviving but thriving. She talks about her life, work, and dedication to helping people. Katy can be supported and reached through The Dane Foundation, whose mission is to provide for the unique needs of individuals with physical and developmental disabilities: http://thedanefoundation.org/donate.html More information about the Ms. Wheelchair USA competition can be found at: https://www.mswheelchairusa.org/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Apr 16, 2025 · 25 min
"One Neighborhood at a Time" with Desilynn Smith
Desilynn Smith lost her husband to drugs in 2021. Her husband, a Black man, belonged to one of the highest demographic groups in our country losing their lives to drugs: older Black men. Desilynn talks about her work with that community and her dedication to doing that work in her husband's memory. Desilynn is the Executive Director of Uniting Garden Homes, Inc. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She holds Bachelor's degrees in Criminal Justice and Special Education and a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling, specializing in Substance Abuse Counseling. With over 20 years dedicated to serving her community, she has focused on addressing the injustices within the justice system, advocating for individuals with mental health issues, and tackling community trauma. Uniting Garden Homes, Inc., their many programs, and Desilynn can be reached at https://www.ughinc.org/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Apr 9, 2025 · 35 min
"Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea" with Jessica Guerrieri
Jessica Guerrieri is a writer and novelist who lives in Northern California with her husband and three daughters. With a background in special education, Jessica left the field to pursue a career in writing and raise her children. With over a decade of sobriety, she is a fierce advocate for addiction recovery. She discusses her recovery and her award-winning debut book club fiction novel Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea. Jessica's book, other works, and contact information can be accessed at https://www.jessicaguerrieri.net/. The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Apr 2, 2025 · 30 min
"The Breath of Life" with Rev. Dr. Monica Cummings
Some people seem to be born to help others. Rev. Dr. Monica L. Cummings is one of them. She has dedicated her life to being of service to others. Drawing on her experience as a college basketball player, Army Officer, Peace Corps Volunteer, parish and community minister, university faculty member, yoga and meditation instructor, and substance abuse counselor, Rev. Dr. Cummings supports those she works with with an inclusive, non-judgmental, compassionate, and relational approach to the healing process. In this podcast, she discusses her life's work, interests, the importance of community, and recovery. Information about Dr. Cummings and iRest yoga can be found at iRest Store. The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Mar 26, 2025 · 26 min
"Spring Breakup — A Change of Seasons" with Joshua Arvidson
If you ask almost anyone about the time of year that people feel the most down, the time people are most at risk for depression, suicide, and increased substance use, they will answer winter. Surprisingly, perhaps, the research shows that it's actually when spring moves into summer. Joshua Arvidson discusses that research and what can be done to help individuals improve their mental health during challenging times of the year. Joshua is Chief Operations Officer for Alaska Behavioral Health. He is a licensed clinical social worker and an expert in trauma informed care for children who established the Alaska Child Trauma Center at Alaska Behavioral Health. He serves on the Steering Committee for SAMHSA's National Child Traumatic Stress Network and is the Principal Investigator for the Military Family Child Trauma Program. He's also on the Editorial Review Board for the Journal of Child and Adolescent Trauma and has presented on childhood trauma at over 100 conferences, including the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies. Joshua serves on the Board of Directors for FOCUS and has designed and taught courses on clinical practice with children and adolescents and childhood trauma for the University of Alaska Anchorage. Joshua has published in the journals Child Welfare 360, Child Maltreatment, the Journal of Child and Adolescent Trauma, and Trauma, Abuse and Violence. Alaska Behavioral Health, its resources, and its programs can be reached at https://alaskabehavioralhealth.org/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Mar 19, 2025 · 33 min
"Finding Purpose After the Dream" with Bradie Ewing
Like a lot of young people, Bradie Ewing dreamed of playing college and professional football. He became one of the few to achieve that dream, but all too soon, the dream ended. Bradie discusses how to reset your life, your goals, and your dreams. Bradie Ewing is a National Account Coordinator for Kelley Supply, Inc. He is also a motivational speaker, sales professional, and former college and professional football player who played with the University of Wisconsin before moving into the NFL with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Atlanta Falcons. He can be reached at https://www.instagram.com/bradie.ewing/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Mar 12, 2025 · 26 min
"Cutting Off the Help" with Kandyce Walker, RN
Getting help for mental health and substance use issues is not easy. It's made more difficult when access to the appropriate care is denied. Kandyce Walker discusses her work with people experiencing mental health crises, and her advocacy to get them the help they need. Kandyce was the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Nursing at Trauma Recovery Institute in Cedar Park, Texas. That center, unfortunately, closed due, in part, to lack of reimbursement. Kandyce began working in trauma and recovery in 2006 as an EMT, then worked as a Paramedic, Emergency Medical Dispatcher, and now as a Registered Nurse. Working with patients throughout the process of a physical trauma, Kandyce was witness to its impact on people both physically and emotionally. Kandyce can be contacted at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kandyce-walker-rn-8979a6120 The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Mar 5, 2025 · 27 min
"A Healthy, Fresh Start" with Abbie Timmerman
It's not unusual that those who have experienced substance use disorders or severe mental illnesses have had interruptions and difficulties in their employment. Re-entering the workforce in recovery presents obstacles. Abbie Timmerman talks about the challenges and opportunities people new to recovery with issues in their employment history face when seeking employment. Abbie is a Talent Acquisition Leader & Business Partner with the Panaro Group, a 100% woman-owned recruitment firm with over 30 years of expertise in building a Recruiting Center of Excellence. Abbie has a decade and a half of success delivering effective, targeted talent acquisition, people development strategies, and programs for business and industry. The Panaro Group can be reached at Panaro Group | Your Strategic Recruiting Partner The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Feb 26, 2025 · 28 min
"Just Get Help" with Nanci Schiman, MSW, LCSW
Getting help for a substance use disorder is not a one-stop proposition. There are obstacles, doubts, backslides, and often frustrating delays, waiting lists, and an absence of resources. Nanci Schiman talks about the challenges an individual encounters when finally making the decision to stop using substances and get help. Nanci is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of experience in the mental health field working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Getting help can be challenging, but it is well worth the lifesaving effort. Nanci can be reached at info@orendacounselingservices.com. The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Feb 19, 2025 · 29 min
"Raised by Wolves, Trapped by Demons" with Mimi Tallo
Mimi Tallo grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania, a northeastern, blue-collar town if there ever was one. Surrounded by dysfunction, abuse, and addiction, Mimi talks about her struggle to make something of her life while battling the demons that seemed to pop up around every corner. Mimi is a speaker, author, and podcast maven. Access to her books and story are here, and her podcast can be found here: Be Heard: Empower Yourself The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Feb 12, 2025 · 29 min
"Honor Bound" with Tom LaGrave
Tom LaGrave is a former Navy SEAL. His military career ended due to drug use. After a recovery program, he set out on a new journey. It began with his working with adolescents, then a return to higher education, and finally licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He is the author of a new book, called "Special Welfare . Social Warfare," which pulls together all of his many years of experience, giving a roadmap of hope, especially to younger people. Tom and his socials can be found at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjlagravejr/. More information about the Honor Bound Academy can be found at Honor Bound Academy The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Feb 5, 2025 · 32 min
"A Second Chance" with Eddie Jones
Eddie Jones is an attorney who found himself in trouble with drugs and with the law. A federal prison sentence allowed him the opportunity to get help and turn his life around. Now, twenty-three years into recovery, Mr. Jones is an attorney in the Paducah, Kentucky, office of Boehl, Stopher & Graves and is also the McCracken County Commissioner. After years of helping others through his volunteer work, Eddie recently received a pardon from President Joe Biden. He discusses his troubles and his recovery. He can be reached at https://bsg-law.com/edwin-jones/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Jan 29, 2025 · 31 min
"From Blackout to Blessing" with Melissa Huray
There isn't a script to follow that turns growing up in a chaotic family into living a life of peace and serenity. In fact, it seems like a miracle when someone does turn that life around. Melissa Huray is a former radio and television broadcaster, an addiction counselor, and an author whose memoir "Blackout to Blessing" chronicles her path towards sobriety and salvation. Melissa is currently the Executive Director of the Lindell Recovery Network and the host of "The Hope Report," a daily internet television show. She has also written a new book, a daily devotional called "Radical Freedom." Access to her books and story are at https://melissahuray.com/, and daily internet TV show can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheHopeReport The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!
Jan 22, 2025 · 33 min
"It Can Be a Wonderful Life" with Guida Brown
For many, spending time with family during the holidays is joyful and fulfilling. For others, spending time with family is emotionally challenging as they navigate varying degrees of disease, disinformation and dysfunction. Guida Brown talks about how we can take care of ourselves, set healthy boundaries, and handle relationship dysfunction with honesty and respect. Guida is the Principal for Guided by Guida and serves as the Community Relations Consultant for the US Drug Testing Laboratories in Des Plaines, Illinois. She has been an adjunct faculty member for Carthage College, University of Wisconsin -- Parkside, Concordia University, and Gateway Technical College. Guida is certified by the State of Wisconsin as a Substance Abuse Counselor, a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder trainer, and an Intoxicated Driver Program Assessor. She is also a Kenosha (Wisconsin) County Board Supervisor. She can be reached at https://guidedbyguida.guide/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!