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

Jan 15, 2025 · 25 min
"Drawing a Hard Line" with Jordan Davis
Jordan Davis found himself at a crossroads between his passion and his addiction. He discusses the decision he made to get his life back on the road to success. Jordan is the director of operations of The Chocolate Moose, a restaurant and creamery in Bloomington, Indiana. He is also the host of the podcast "No Dishes," a discussion dedicated to finding Bloomington's culinary gems. He can be reached at The Chocolate Moose | Best Dessert in IN, and his podcast can be found at No Dishes Podcast | The Bloomington Food Scene. 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 8, 2025 · 24 min
"Alternatives - Ketamine Therapy" with DJ Quam
DJ Quam is in recovery from a substance use disorder but experienced ongoing depression and occasional anxiety. After discussing options with his partner and sponsor, he decided to try ketamine therapy. He discusses his experience and results. The FDA has warned that ketamine and compounded ketamine products aren't approved to treat any psychiatric disorders, although a ketamine-derived drug called esketamine is approved for some people as part of treatment-resistant depression in a certified clinical setting. More information about the use of ketamine for treatment-resistant depression can be found here: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/ketamine-for-treatment-resistant-depression-when-and-where-is-it-safe-202208092797 and here: FDA warns about compounded ketamine for psychiatric disorders. DJ's previous podcast can be found here: We Have a Problem - Avoiding the Addiction Affliction 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 1, 2025 · 28 min
"Climbing the Rope" with Janice Claps
There are many roads to long-term recovery. Janice Claps discusses the road she took and her belief that predicaments are wholly self imposed through our own thoughts, actions, and behaviors. Janice is an Expressive Therapist at Lake Behavioral Hospital in Waukegan, Illinois. She is also a yoga instructor, CrossFit coach, meditation teacher, and recovery mentor. She is an Active member of The Phoenix Sober-Active Community and describes herself in her bio as "a sober health and wellness professional with a dark sense of humor who enjoys candy and mischief from time to time." The Phoenix Sober-Active Community information can be found at National Sober Active Community | The Phoenix 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!
Dec 25, 2024 · 24 min
"More Than Perfect" with Troy Schaefer
The holidays are often a time of reflection and gratitude. Troy Schaefer shares a story about a moment with his father and how each of them viewed that moment moving forward. Troy is the Principal of Sevastopol, Wisconsin, Middle and High School. He was also a college pitcher and professional bowler, but, for this story, he was a son with a deep love and appreciation for the gift his father gave him. Watch the Bowling With The Champs video clips: Video 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sz6eHuj3Ms4 Video 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZhCPf-vbe0 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!
Dec 18, 2024 · 27 min
"Curveballs" with Gail Taylor
Losing her father early in her life created a trauma that took Gail Taylor on a lifelong journey full of curveballs. Gail talks about turning that trauma into inspiration. Initially working in finance and experiencing remarkable success as an investment advisor, Gail fearlessly embarked on a profound second act in life that transformed her into a prolific songwriter, motivational speaker, and philanthropic force. She is the author of Curveballs: Unlocking Your Potential Through Personal Growth and Inspirational Music. Gail Taylor's work and contact information can be found at https://www.gailtaylormusic.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!
Dec 11, 2024 · 26 min
"Light Up the Longest Night" with Michelle Sandberg
December 21 is the longest night of the calendar year. Michelle Sandberg, the Executive Director of the Hope Council in Kenosha, Wisconsin, discusses their second annual, "Light Up the Longest Night" event, remembering those who are suffering from or who have succumbed to addiction as well as honoring those in recovery. Michelle also talks about the challenges that organizations like the Hope Council face and the many programs they offer to help and heal local communities. Michelle and the Hope Council can be reached at https://www.hopecouncil.org/. Light Up the Longest Night registration and support information can be found at https://www.hopecouncil.org/how-you-can-help/special-events/ 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!
Dec 4, 2024 · 24 min
"Generational Learning" with Dr. Daniel Ciccarone
Daniel Ciccarone, MD, talks about the apparent decline of fentanyl deaths across the country in 2023 and early 2024 and the reasons why, if the data is accurate, that the decline might be happening. Dr. Ciccarone is a Professor of Family Community Medicine in the School of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. He is the recipient of numerous awards and honors for his work with addiction medicine, street drugs, particularly heroin and its many derivatives, and his work with the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS and related diseases in socially-marginalized populations. Dr. Ciccarone discusses what steps might be most effective to end the fentanyl spiral. Dr. Ciccarone can be contacted at Daniel Ciccarone • UCSF Profiles 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!
Nov 27, 2024 · 34 min
"Making a Meaningful Impact" with Stephanie Short
Stephanie Short began drinking in elementary school. By the time she dropped out of high school in her junior year, her use had intensified, and so did the problems that came with it. Taking whatever drugs were trending at the time, Stephanie's use and difficulties continued until she got into enough trouble to end up in prison. And then she said, "enough." Now, six years into recovery, she discusses how she got to a place of recovery and serenity. Stephanie is now a Certified Peer Specialist and Recovery Coach and the owner of Esares Wellness Services. She is also a Community Impact Coordinator for Health with the United Way of Door County, Wisconsin. Stephanie and Esares Wellness can be reached at linkedin.com/in/stephanie-short-7b6532259 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!
Nov 20, 2024 · 29 min
"The Love Habit" with Rainie Howard
If we are to have a better understanding of our relationships with family, friends, society, and ourselves, we need a way forward. Rainie Howard, an award-winning CEO, bestselling author, and relationship expert, discusses her book, The Love Habit. Because a person's self-image directly influences daily habits (emotional, mental, and physical), which then directly impact relationships with others, Rainie talks about how to develop habits that lead to a healthier sense of self. Rainie is a devoted wife, nurturing mother, and award-winning humanitarian. She is the host of her own podcast, The Rainie Howard Show. Her groundbreaking work has been featured on major platforms like FOX, NBC, and ABC, reinforcing her status as a leading authority on emotional intelligence, mental health, and spiritual growth. Rainie's book, socials, and her other works can be accessed at Rainie Howard | St Louis Keynote Speaker | Motivational Speaker | Motivational Speakers 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!
Nov 13, 2024 · 38 min
"What to Say?" with Jessica Lahey
Words matter. Words are powerful, so powerful that many of us avoid talking about certain topics because of the emotions the words create. Jessica Lahey, the author of the New York Times bestselling books, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed and The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence, discusses losing her good friend to depression and suicide and her hesitancy in writing about it. Jessica's work, including her article about her friend Mary Moore, and contact information can be accessed at Jessica Lahey. Our previous discussion is here: The Addiction Inoculation - Avoiding the Addiction Affliction 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!
Nov 6, 2024 · 28 min
"Your Whole Self" with Sydney Reece
When people experience decline in their mental health, every part of their lives is affected. Sydney Reece discusses the need for an integrated approach in addressing a person's mental, emotional, and physical selves. Sydney is the Vice President of Operations at Mind Body Optimization. She has a Master's Degree in Counseling from University of North Texas and has worked in multiple settings across the healthcare industry, including private practice, outpatient clinics, and inpatient hospitals. Mind Body Optimization is based out of greater Dallas - Fort Worth, Texas. They and Sydney can be reached at Mental Health Treatment Centers - Mind Body Optimization or by calling 972-590-9909. 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!
Oct 30, 2024 · 37 min
"Not On My Watch" with Jenny Prochut
What would you do if your life's partner, the father of your children, was planning on ending his life? That was the situation facing Jenny Prochut when she discovered that her husband, Chris, a police commander, had made plans to do just that. Jenny tells the story of what she did to gather the resources necessary to save Chris's life. Chris Prochut is a mental health advocate and law enforcement suicide prevention trainer whose own mental health issues led to his starting "Talk2EndStigma," a training and resource firm dedicated to starting the conversation to end the stigma of mental illness. He and Jenny occasionally co-present trainings to help law enforcement understand mental health trauma. They and "Talk2EndStigma" can be reached here: http://www.talk2endstigma.com/home.html Chris's podcast, discussing his ordeal, can be found here: https://ataapodcast.com/episode/there-is-no-shame-asking-for-help/ 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!
Oct 23, 2024 · 30 min
"Turning the Page" with Jake Jansen and Douglas Darby
Jacob Jansen and Douglas Darby embody their company's mission of "connection, strength, and hope." Both Jake and Doug are survivors in long-term recovery. Separately, they established several businesses focused on recovery and then collaborated in 2020, forming Turning the Page, a company that offers educational programs about mental health, substance use disorders, and behavioral change. Jake, Douglas, and Turning the Page can be reached at https://turningthepagenow.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!
Oct 16, 2024 · 20 min
"Voices for Recovery" with Cindy Burzinski
Recovery from Substance Use Disorder is everything from a challenge to a celebration. The recovering community is ever-present to support folks through the challenges and to celebrate together every step of the way. Cindy Burzinski discusses her work with the recovering community and the many programs available at Wisconsin Voices for Recovery. Cindy is the current Director of Wisconsin Voices for Recovery, part of the UW-Madison Department of Family Medicine and Community Health (DFMCH). She is also a licensed Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, person in long-term recovery, and researcher interested in increasing access to supportive resources within the recovery community. Cindy and Wisconsin Voices for Recovery can be reached at https://wisconsinvoicesforrecovery.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!
Oct 9, 2024 · 34 min
"There is No Shame Asking for Help" with Chris Prochut
Who helps the helpers when the helpers need help? And what if the helpers are law enforcement officers and first responders? Chris Prochut, a mental health advocate and law enforcement suicide prevention trainer, discusses his own mental health issues that precipitated in his starting "Talk2EndStigma," a training and resource firm dedicated to starting the conversation to end the stigma of mental illness. Chris is a former Bolingbrook, Illinois, police commander, and recipient of numerous mental health awards. Chris and "Talk2EndStigma" can be reached at http://www.talk2endstigma.com/home.html 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!
Oct 2, 2024 · 43 min
"Keep No Secrets, Carry No Shame" with Kristi Tanner
An increasing number of sober, sober curious, and recovering people have found that alcohol is not necessary. Kristi Tanner is a single mother of four in long-term recovery who serves as a recovery coach and the driving force behind Sober Social, a non-alcoholic bottle shop (AKA a "package store" or "party store") in Middleton, Wisconsin. Kristi is a passionate advocate for sober living and community inclusion. She discusses her recovery and her decision to open the first non-alcoholic bottle shop in the state of Wisconsin. Sober Social and Kristi can be reached at Sober Social, and Kristi's Instagram is at @mocktailmommy. 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!
Sep 25, 2024 · 25 min
"No More Victims: Mothers Against Drunk Drivers" with Erin Payton and Karl Krull
Since the inception in 1980, Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) has worked tirelessly to end impaired driving. In 2022 almost fourteen thousand people were killed by an impaired driver. Erin Payton and Karl Krull discuss MADD's mission and work. Erin is a Director of Mission Operations for MADD, providing support and guidance to about twenty percent of the country. Karl is a Program Specialist for MADD in Madison, Wisconsin. Mothers Against Drunk Drivers' national website is at Home - MADD. Walk Like MADD, Madison, Wisconsin, registration is at: 2024 Walk like MADD Madison 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!
Sep 18, 2024 · 35 min
"Learning Gratitude" with Jacqui Letran
Saturday, September 21, is World Gratitude Day. The benefits of expressing gratitude for our physical and emotional well being are many, but how do children learn gratitude, especially when so many are surrounded by negativity? Jacqui Letran, Author, Speaker, Nurse Practitioner, and Teen Confidence Expert discusses her latest book, Have You Ever Thanked Your Nose, a work geared towards helping young children, and their parents, begin to express appreciation for all that surrounds them. Jacqui's multi-award-winning Words of Wisdom for Teens book series is considered a go-to resource for teens, parents of teens, and anyone working with teens. Jacqui's contact information, socials, and many books, including her new series about gratitude, can be accessed at Your Mind. Your Life. 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!
Sep 11, 2024 · 30 min
"Survive & Thrive" with Tim Decorah
Indigenous educator and mental health advocate Tim Decorah discusses coping with undiagnosed mental health issues and his dedication to helping others. Tim is a Coach, Teacher, Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Mentor. He is a former University of Wisconsin-Platteville basketball player who played under Hall of Fame Coach Bo Ryan. As a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, Tim hopes to serve as a face for those within indigenous communities who are struggling with mental health issues. He can be reached at https://www.coachdecorahllc.com/. The 2024 Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Seminar where Tim will be a keynote speaker can be found here: https://www.wisconsinconnect.org/2024aps.html 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!
Sep 4, 2024 · 25 min
"The Number One Drug? Alcohol." with Maureen Busalacchi
When people think of drugs, they often think of the headline drugs: opiates, cocaine, meth. They rarely think of the drug they have at home in their refrigerators. Maureen Busalacchi discusses the number one drug in the country, alcohol. Maureen is the Director of the Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Project (WisAPP) and has decades of experience in public health policy. She works at the Medical College of Wisconsin and is currently President-elect for the Wisconsin Public Health Association, having served as Chair of the ad hoc Workgroup on Alcohol Prevention for the Wisconsin State Council on Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse. The purpose of the Council was to develop evidence-based recommendations to reduce excessive alcohol use. Maureen can be reached at Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Project (WisAPP) | Medical College of Wisconsin. Information for the upcoming Alcohol Policy Seminar can be found at Alcohol Policy Seminar 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!