The Addicted Mind Podcast

Duane Osterlind, LMFT
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  • MENTAL HEALTH
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"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it. We're here to do more than just talk about addiction. We want to show you how to heal and recover. Our talks with experts and people who have beaten addiction give you important insights into how addiction affects the mind and how recovery can happen in many ways. Whether we're looking at new treatment ideas or sharing stories that inspire, "The Addicted Mind Podcast" is all about understanding the complex world of addiction recovery and showing that recovery is possible. If you or someone you care about is dealing with the challenges of addiction, let "The Addicted Mind Podcast" be your friend and guide. We aim to give you the knowledge you need, share stories that inspire you, and show you that the journey to recovery is worth it. Subscribe now to be part of a community focused on learning, healing, and changing for the better. Your journey to a healthier mind and life begins right here.

  1. TAM+ Episode 102 From Emotional Chaos to Calm: Debunking Common Emotion Myths

    2 DAYS AGO

    TAM+ Episode 102 From Emotional Chaos to Calm: Debunking Common Emotion Myths

    Download: Debunking Common Emotion Myths Worksheet Have you ever felt like your emotions are running the show, pushing and pulling you in directions you don’t want to go? You’re not alone. In this episode of the Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane Osterlind and Eric Osterlind dive deep into the world of emotion regulation. They explore common myths about emotions that keep many of us stuck in unhealthy patterns. With practical insights and compassionate guidance, Duane and Eric shed light on how our misunderstandings about emotions can lead to more intense feelings and problematic behaviors. By debunking these myths, they show us how to develop healthier relationships with our emotions, allowing us to make decisions that align with our true goals. Whether you’re struggling with impulsive reactions or avoidance strategies or just want to understand your emotions better, this episode is packed with valuable information that can help you navigate your emotional landscape more effectively. Join Duane and Eric as they explore the myths surrounding emotion regulation and how these misconceptions can hinder our recovery journey. Learn about the importance of understanding your emotions from a biopsychosocial perspective and discover practical tips to regulate your emotions instead of letting them control you. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a better grasp of how to manage your emotions and make decisions that support your well-being. Key Topics Understanding the impact of emotions on decision-makingThe importance of emotion regulation skills in recoveryDebunking common myths about emotionsThe role of avoidance and escape strategies in emotional intensityHow to develop a healthier relationship with your emotionsThe benefits of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in emotion regulationPractical steps to regulate emotions effectivelyKey Moments [00:01:22] - Introduction to the topic of emotion regulation[00:02:07] - The problem with letting emotions drive our decisions[00:03:00] - Defining emotion regulation and its significance[00:07:19] - Introduction to myths about emotions[00:09:08] - Discussion on the myth: Emotions are bad or dangerous[00:11:44] - Exploring the myth: If I start feeling, I’ll never stop[00:14:00] - Addressing the myth: I should be able to control my emotions See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    18 min

  2. 5 DAYS AGO

    Episode 371: Neurodivergence, Identity, and the Science of Micro-Recovery with Early Brunner

    In this episode, Duane speaks with Early Brunner, the founder of Recovery Demystified. Early shares their powerful journey of navigating addiction as a queer, neurodivergent (autistic) person growing up in a small town. They discuss why traditional recovery models like AA can feel alienating for marginalized groups and how science-based "Quit Lit," neuroscience, and self-compassion provided the path to lasting sobriety. Key Topics & Chapters [00:03] Introduction to Early Brunner Early introduces their background: growing up undiagnosed autistic in 90s Wisconsin, dealing with profound social rejection, and discovering substances at age 10 as a way to find social connection.[04:30] The 13-Year Struggle Early discusses the "vicious cycle" of trying to quit using willpower alone. They share the shame of failed attempts and the realization that the substances that once provided relief were now the primary source of their crippling anxiety.[14:05] The Turning Point: Beyond Willpower The shift began when Early found science-based resources like This Naked Mind by Annie Grace. Understanding the neuroscience of addiction helped them realize they weren't "broken" or "powerless," but rather dealing with a brain-based challenge that could be repaired.[23:34] The Birth of Recovery Demystified After working as an EMT and seeing the failures of the traditional medical system, Early felt called to create a space specifically for those with "complex identities"—queer and neurodivergent folks who face significantly higher rates of addiction due to systemic trauma.[33:44] Neurodivergence and Addiction A deep dive into why ADHD and Autistic individuals are more prone to substance use, focusing on lower baseline dopamine levels, sensory overload, and the "mashing of the dopamine button" to cope with a world not built for them.[36:10] Destigmatizing the Story Early explains the importance of looking at the "whole person," including their childhood (ACEs score), rather than just their worst moments in active addiction. Quotes "Willpower is like a muscle, and muscles get tired over time... I think you need an ounce of willpower and about 25 pounds of everything else." — Early Brunner "One size fits all is not real. It’s not real for baseball caps, and it’s not real for recovery plans." — Early Brunner "The first step was asking: 'What would someone who loves themself do?'" — Early Brunner Resources Mentioned Book: This Naked Mind by Annie GracePodcast: Recovery ElevatorConcept: ACEs Score (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Connect with Early Brunner Website: recoverydemystified.comPodcast: Recovery DemystifiedSocial Media: @recoverydemystified (Instagram/Substack)Email: info@recoverydemystified.comNovusMindfulLife.com Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    39 min

  3. 2 FEB

    370 Episode: Exposing the "Florida Shuffle": How Greed Corrupted the Treatment Industry with Benjamin Flaherty

    In this powerful episode, Duane sits down with filmmaker Benjamin Flaherty to discuss his hard-hitting documentary, Shuffle. The film pulls back the curtain on the "Florida Shuffle"—a predatory cycle in the billion-dollar addiction treatment industry where vulnerable individuals are "brokered" between facilities for insurance payouts. Benjamin shares his own journey of recovery and explains how his personal experience allowed him to gain unprecedented access to a community often silenced or exploited. This conversation explores the dark intersection of greed and healthcare, the resilience of the human spirit, and why the current treatment system desperately needs transparency. Key Discussion Points Benjamin’s Recovery Journey: How a moment of clarity at age 41 led Benjamin from "professional alcoholism" to a transformative experience in treatment.The Origins of Shuffle: A chance conversation in an AA meeting revealed a disturbing trend: recovery call centers becoming a primary source of employment for those in early sobriety.What is the "Florida Shuffle"? Benjamin explains how the Affordable Care Act (ACA) unintentionally created a loophole where "patient brokers" poach insured individuals, profiting from their relapses.The Statistic that Shocks: There are currently more private substance abuse treatment centers in the U.S. than there are McDonald's restaurants.Witnessing the Cycle: The emotional weight of filming Corey and Nicole—two individuals caught in the cycle of being "bought and sold" by treatment facilities.The "Driveway Recordings": Why Benjamin chose to use raw, iPhone voice memos for the film's narration to maintain emotional authenticity.Maintaining Hope: Despite the systemic corruption, the film highlights the incredible resilience of those in recovery and the fact that healing is still possible.Notable Quotes "Stopping a substance is the entry card for admission. That’s not the whole thing. There’s a lot of work to do, and none of us know that until we find it out in our own way." — Benjamin Flaherty "We’ve now made relapse profitable. We’ve incentivized the struggle by providing substandard care because an insurance card is like a blank check." — Benjamin Flaherty "I approached my time with Corey not as a filmmaker first, but as a person in recovery. I had to witness it to make it impossible to ignore." — Benjamin Flaherty Resources Mentioned The Documentary: Shuffle (also referred to as Stop the Shuffle)Website: stoptheshuffle.com — Find theater locations, tickets, and upcoming streaming info.Social Media: Follow the movement on Instagram @StopTheShuffle.Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    43 min
  4. TAM+ EP 101 Thinking in Gray: Transforming All-or-Nothing Mindsets in Addiction

    29 JAN

    TAM+ EP 101 Thinking in Gray: Transforming All-or-Nothing Mindsets in Addiction

    Download: OVERCOMING BLACK OR WHITE THINKING WORKSHEET Welcome to the Addicted Mind podcast! Have you ever caught yourself thinking, "I'm either a success or a complete failure"? This episode is for you. In this episode, we dive deep into the pervasive issue of black-and-white thinking, also known as dichotomous thinking and its impact on addiction recovery. Join Duane Osterlind and Eric Osterlind as they explore how this rigid mindset can create emotional instability and hinder progress. Drawing on principles from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), they discuss practical steps to move from extreme thinking to a more balanced, nuanced approach. You'll learn mindfulness techniques, how to challenge your thoughts, and the importance of embracing the gray areas in life. By the end of this episode, you'll have valuable tools to help you think more dialectically and support your journey to recovery. Plus, don't miss the downloadable worksheet in the show notes to further your practice! Key Topics Understanding black-and-white thinking and its impact on recoveryIntroduction to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Practical steps to shift towards dialectical thinkingImportance of mindfulness and self-compassionChallenging extreme thoughts and seeking clarificationThe role of language in shaping our perceptionsTimestamps [00:00:00] Introduction and overview of black-and-white thinking[00:02:15] The impact of black-and-white thinking on recovery and relationships[00:06:15] Why our brains default to black-and-white thinking[00:08:40] How to become a gray thinker: Practical steps[00:10:58] Seeking clarification and the role of community support[00:12:42] Reframing negative thoughts and focusing on positives[00:14:11] Call to action: Download the worksheet and join the community See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    15 min

  5. 26 JAN

    Episode 369: The Neuroscience of Addiction: A Game-Changing Approach with Dr. Paul Kenny - replay

    Today, let’s journey through the realms of neuroscience, addiction research, and the promising future of treatment strategies for substance use disorders. On this episode, Duane speaks with Dr. Paul Kenny, a distinguished figure in neuroscience and addiction research. He unravels his research on signaling cascades in rodents’ brains, providing fascinating insights into addiction-like behaviors.  The discussion turns engaging as Paul illuminates his groundbreaking work with certain treatments and their potential role in addressing cravings and motivation in substance use disorders is nothing short of fascinating.  They also steer the conversation towards an area often overlooked, which is the relationship between drugs, addiction, and satiety. Paul dissects how potent drugs like cocaine and heroin trigger extreme pleasure and consequently, substance use disorders. He shares his insights into how the satisfaction derived from drug use and the ritualistic patterns of drug consumption could be altered to reduce dependence.  This episode sheds light on the promising field of addiction research and the need to raise public awareness of the issue. This is a testament to the incredible work being done by Cure Addiction Now. By understanding the brain’s role in addiction, we can potentially change the way we approach substance use disorders and find innovative ways to help those struggling with addiction. In this episode, you will hear: Groundbreaking research on addiction treatmentExploring medications to control cravings and motivationDrugs, addiction, and satiety relationshipGLP-1 enhancers and their potential to treat drug addictionExploring GLP-1 modulators for addiction treatmentAbout Cure Addiction NowFollow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Cure Addiction Now https://cureaddictionnow.org/  NovusMindfulLife.com Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    44 min

  6. 19 JAN

    Episode 368: Humble Pie: Hormones, Process Addictions, and Maintaining Long-Term Recovery in Menopause with Dana Bowman

    In this episode, Duane Osterlind sits down with author Dana Bowman to discuss the often-overlooked intersection of long-term recovery and menopause. Dana opens up about her journey through "the second reckoning"—a period where hormonal shifts triggered intense anxiety, suicidal ideation, and the resurfacing of addictive behaviors like sugar addiction and "doom scrolling." They explore the concept of process addictions, the importance of self-advocacy in medical settings, and how creativity can serve as a vital tool for navigating the "identity attack" that often accompanies aging. Dana’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn't a destination, but a deepening process that requires grace, honesty, and a willingness to "boop the monster on the nose." Key Discussion Points The "Invisible" Struggle of Menopause: Dana discusses how menopause is one of the least researched medical conditions, despite having over 70 potential symptoms. She highlights the specific danger for women in recovery: how hormonal anxiety can mimic the "dark days" of active addiction.Process Addictions in Recovery: When the biological substance (alcohol) is removed, other behaviors often rush in to fill the void. Dana shares her personal struggle with sugar addiction, binge eating, and digital escapism as ways to cope with menopausal distress.The Identity Attack: Aging and menopause can lead to "Invisible Woman Syndrome." Dana explains how surrendering to this new phase of life is similar to the initial surrender in early sobriety.The "Boop" Rule: A family strategy for facing fears. Instead of running from anxiety or shame, Dana teaches listeners to look the "clown" in the eye and "boop" it on the nose—acknowledging its presence without letting it take control.Medical Self-Advocacy: The importance of finding healthcare providers who understand the nuances of addiction and recovery when treating hormonal or mental health issues.The Spectrum of Menopause Symptoms Menopause is far more than just "hot flashes." It affects the physical, emotional, and cognitive systems, which can be particularly destabilizing for those maintaining long-term sobriety. CategoryCommon Symptoms MentionedPhysicalJoint aches, insomnia, changes in hair/skin, exhaustion.EmotionalSevere anxiety, panic attacks, depression, suicidal ideation.BehavioralReturn of "shame circles," hiding behaviors, sugar cravings.Memorable Quotes "Alcoholism waited for me... and that’s how I felt about the menopause symptoms because they’re so sneaky. You feel like your whole body is betraying you." "Recovery is all about acceptance and surrender. It’s hard when it’s your own identity to really say, 'Who am I anymore?'" "There are times when my soul just needs to be wrapped in bubble wrap, and I just really need to hunker down into that. And it's okay. It’s rest." Resources Mentioned Dana’s New Book: Humble Pie: Sober Menopause, Sugar Addiction, and The Sweetness of RecoveryDana’s Previous Books: Bottled and How to be Perfect Like Me2Website: DanaBowmanCreative.comSocial Media: Follow Dana on TikTok and Instagram @theDanaBoIf you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    34 min
  7. TAM+ EP 100 Meeting Your Shadow: Understanding the Hidden Parts of Yourself

    15 JAN

    TAM+ EP 100 Meeting Your Shadow: Understanding the Hidden Parts of Yourself

    Worksheet: Meeting Your Shadow Have you ever done something and then wondered, "Who was that? That wasn't me"? Maybe it was a relapse. A hurtful comment you didn't mean to say. Or that familiar feeling of sabotaging yourself right when things were finally going well. The uncomfortable truth? It was you—just a part of you that's been hiding in the shadows. In this episode of The Addicted Mind, Duane and Eric Osterlind explore one of psychology's most powerful concepts: the shadow self. First named by psychiatrist Carl Jung, the shadow is the unconscious part of your personality where you've stuffed everything you think is unacceptable—your anger, jealousy, selfishness, and those desires you don't want anyone to see. Here's the problem: what you repress grows in the dark. The more you ignore these hidden parts of yourself, the stronger they become. And for those struggling with addiction, the shadow often becomes the invisible force that hijacks your recovery and drives you back into old patterns. It's exhausting trying to be "good" all the time while fighting a war inside yourself. But here's the twist that might surprise you: your shadow isn't just the "bad" parts. It also contains buried treasures—your creativity, your passion, your drive. These gifts often get locked away because they seemed "too much" or not acceptable to the people around you. The goal of shadow work isn't to destroy these parts of yourself. It's not about fixing something that's broken. As Duane and Eric discuss, drawing from Internal Family Systems therapy, there are no bad parts. Every part of you is trying to help in some way, even if that help has become distorted over time. Instead, shadow work is about integration—bringing these hidden parts into the light so you can understand them and find healthy outlets for their energy. When you stop running from your shadow, something amazing happens: you free up all the energy you were using to keep that basement door locked. That energy becomes available for your recovery, your relationships, and your life. In this episode, you'll learn two practical ways to start exploring your shadow safely. First, pay attention to what annoys you in other people. That strong reaction? It's often pointing to something you've disowned in yourself. Second, get curious about your negative traits instead of shaming them. That anger you hate? It might be protecting you. That laziness? It might be your body begging for rest. The path to freedom isn't about becoming perfect. It's about becoming whole. A real person has a shadow—and meeting yours might be the most important step you take in your recovery. Key Topics What is the shadow self? Carl Jung's concept of the unconscious parts of our personality we've denied, rejected, or repressedWhy whatever you repress grows in the dark—and how this fuels addiction and self-sabotageThe shadow isn't all bad—hidden within it are creativity, passion, and driveIntegration vs. fixing—why there are "no bad parts" and what that means for recoveryThe projection exercise—how what annoys you in others reveals your own shadowGetting curious instead of shaming—finding the positive intention behind negative traitsWholeness over perfection—reclaiming the energy spent hiding from yourselfTimestamps [00:01:00] – Introduction: Have you ever felt like there's another part of you living inside?[00:03:00] – The pain point: Self-sabotage and the exhaustion of trying to be good all the time[00:05:00] – Carl Jung's shadow concept explained: The bag we drag behind us[00:06:00] – The twist: Your shadow contains hidden gifts, not just darkness[00:08:00] – Integration vs. fixing: Why there are no bad parts[00:09:00] – Action step #1: Exploring your projections—what annoys you in others[00:11:00] – Action step #2: Getting curious about your negative traits See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    16 min

  8. 12 JAN

    Episode 367: Old Before Their Time: Frank Putnam on The Science of Intergenerational Trauma and Resilience

    In this episode, Duane sits down with Dr. Frank Putnam, a pioneer in the study of childhood trauma with nearly 50 years of clinical and research experience. Dr. Putnam discusses his landmark 35-year longitudinal study—the Female Growth and Development Study—which tracked the biological and psychological impacts of sexual abuse on girls from childhood into adulthood. They explore the concept of "accelerated aging," the intergenerational transfer of trauma, and why early intervention is critical for breaking the cycle of violence. Key Discussion Points The Evolution of Trauma Diagnosis: Dr. Putnam recounts the early days of his career (the 1970s) when PTSD didn't exist in the DSM. Veterans and trauma survivors were often misdiagnosed with schizophrenia or borderline personality disorder before a language for trauma was developed.The "Old Before Their Time" Phenomenon: A core finding of Dr. Putnam’s research is that extreme childhood adversity accelerates biological aging.Puberty: Abused girls in the study reached puberty approximately one year earlier than the control group.Epigenetics: DNA methylation studies show that traumatized individuals have a biological age that exceeds their chronological age.Immune System: Some young girls exhibited immune systems that appeared "older" than those of healthy adults.The Role of Cortisol: The stress hormone cortisol plays a dual role. While levels are high during the period of active trauma, they often crash later in life, leading to a "blunted" stress response that mediates many negative health outcomes.Intergenerational Trauma: * Dr. Putnam’s research suggests a roughly 30% transfer rate of abuse across generations.This is not just behavioral; animal studies suggest that trauma-induced epigenetic changes can be passed down biologically.Resilience and Recovery: What differentiates survivors who thrive?Positive Relationships: High-quality relationships with older, supportive female role models were the strongest predictors of resilience for the girls in the study.IQ and Social Skills: Higher cognitive ability and personalities that attract social support also serve as protective factors. Treatment Success: Modern Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) has roughly a 70% success rate. Resources Book: Old Before Their Time: A Scientific Life Investigating How Maltreatment Harms Children and the Adults They Become by Frank W. Putnam.Organizations:NCTSN: National Child Traumatic Stress NetworkTF-CBT: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.PCIT: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (effective for younger children).Guest Website: frankputnam.com If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    56 min
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Hosts & Guests

About

"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it. We're here to do more than just talk about addiction. We want to show you how to heal and recover. Our talks with experts and people who have beaten addiction give you important insights into how addiction affects the mind and how recovery can happen in many ways. Whether we're looking at new treatment ideas or sharing stories that inspire, "The Addicted Mind Podcast" is all about understanding the complex world of addiction recovery and showing that recovery is possible. If you or someone you care about is dealing with the challenges of addiction, let "The Addicted Mind Podcast" be your friend and guide. We aim to give you the knowledge you need, share stories that inspire you, and show you that the journey to recovery is worth it. Subscribe now to be part of a community focused on learning, healing, and changing for the better. Your journey to a healthier mind and life begins right here.

Information

  • Creator
    Duane Osterlind, LMFT
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    481
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved. Copyright 2024
  • Show Website
    The Addicted Mind Podcast

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