Addict II Athlete Podcast

Blu Robinson CMHC, SUDC

The Addict II Athlete podcast is hosted by Coach Blu Robinson, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and substance abuse counselor who has worked in the field since 2001. He is a fantastic public speaker, coach, and therapist who works with many individuals, youth, couples, and families addressing issues like addiction, trauma, communication, parenting, and more. Blu hopes to provide listeners with the skills and game plans for anyone to turn their mess into their message of hope and a bright future. The AIIA podcast is here to inspire anyone. We share recovery stories, education, life tips, address teen and parenting issues, and more. Our topics address all walks of life but also addiction recovery with tips and fundamentals for those seeking recovery as well as the family and friends of someone who is. Addict II Athlete removes the negative stigma of addiction and mental health and creates a foundation of potential and support. Addict to Athlete is a nonprofit team of peers, friends, and family who have a desire to create a new way of life. By knowing an addict, having been affected by addiction, or being in recovery yourselves, Team Addict II Athlete is here to help. We have come together to help one another with the outcome from all angles of addiction using our Erase and Replace Philosophy. Erase negative behaviors by replacing the void left behind with health, service, support system, and recreation. We are here to carry the message of recovery and change the outlook of addiction. Our goal is to spread the message of recovery to the addict and family of the addict who still struggles with addiction and to show that we have discovered a more excellent way to live. Moving from Addict to Athlete, dismisses the old way of thinking that recovery must remain anonymous as you become an Agent of Sobriety and a Champion of recovery. Help us continue to create podcasts and YouTube videos by becoming a Patreon Supporter https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete

  1. 6h ago

    The Player Becomes The Coach with Donell Ward

    In this episode of the Addict II Athlete podcast, Coach Blu welcomes a returning guest, Donel Ward, who discusses what she's learned, the experiences she's had, and the healing process she's undergone, having identified significant love, compassion, and joy. She's found long-term recovery. Listen as they discuss a beautiful history, one that demonstrates how humility plays a strong role in accepting advice in any and all situations, from the people who truly cared enough to tell you the truth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest background 01:58 Donel’s early life and family addiction history 04:02 His initial treatment experience and the DEA raid 07:00 Realization of addiction and seeking help 10:12 Inner child work and uncovering past trauma 14:57 The mountain metaphor and climbing out of addiction 19:57 Art as a healing tool and self-belief 25:07 The importance of community and support systems 30:02 Relapse, setbacks, and resilience 34:56 Transforming pain into purpose and future goals 40:01 Reflections on healing, forgiveness, and growth Join Coach Blu and Team Addict II Athlete and begin your recovery with a team behind you! Our online addiction and mental health program provides live group sessions with Coach Blu, our weekly Home Base Recovery Meeting, therapeutic assignments, and educational information. Take You Mark, Get Set, Let’s Go, and click the link below.  https://www.skool.com/addict-ii-athlete-5988/about?ref=9090e81114674311874340c02b1095d0 Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org Blu Robinson, SUDC, CMHC: Blu@AddictToAthlete.org

  2. 6d ago

    Racing for Recovery with Todd Crandall

    Celebrating the 500th episode of the Addict II Athlete Podcast, Coach Blu sits down with a true pioneer in movement based recovery: Todd Crandall, founder of Racing for Recovery. Long before recovery communities such as Addict II Athlete were changing lives through fitness, connection, accountability, and purpose, Todd was proving that movement could become a powerful pathway out of addiction. Todd shares his journey through trauma, addiction, and self-destruction and the turning points that led him to rebuild his life through endurance athletics, including Ironman competition. He explains how training gave him more than physical strength: it created discipline, identity, confidence, emotional regulation, and a reason to keep moving forward. This conversation honors Todd’s legacy while exploring the shared philosophy behind Racing for Recovery and Addict II Athlete: "movement equals healing". It is an episode about turning pain into purpose, taking ownership of the next right step, and using the hardest chapters of life as training material for a stronger future. Listen in for an honest, motivating conversation about recovery, resilience, endurance, and the power of becoming the person you once needed. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 03:05 Turning tragedy into a movement for healing 07:36 Spiritual inspiration and purpose in Todd's journey 11:10 The importance of vulnerability and sharing stories 12:39 Overcoming societal judgment and stigma 14:15 The team approach and community support in recovery 15:34 Athletic challenges as metaphors for life's obstacles 19:04 Todd's extensive Iron Man experience and lessons learned 22:13 The motivation to continue and avoid burnout 24:37 The concept of embracing the suck and resilience 28:30 Balancing personal recovery with family and community 33:13 The impact of helping others and giving back 35:35 Todd's journey as an author and storyteller 40:05 Creating resources for children and families 44:25 Healing childhood trauma through storytelling 48:48 Looking back and staying motivated to move forward 50:52 Supporting others and community involvement 52:35 Upcoming events and how to get involved 54:23 Closing thoughts and gratitude 58:59 Connecting with Todd Crandall and supporting Racing for Recovery For more information about Racing For Recovery: https://racingforrecovery.org/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/racing-for-recovery-podcast/id1693894844 Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/share/19gxpSkt4K/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soberultraman?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&stkn=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Join Coach Blu and Team Addict II Athlete and begin your recovery with a tram behind you! Our online addiction and mental health program provides live group sessions with Coach Blu, our weekly Home Base Recovery Meeting, therapeutic assignments, and educational information. Take You Mark, Get Set, Let’s Go and click the link below.  https://www.skool.com/addict-ii-athlete-5988/about?ref=9090e81114674311874340c02b1095d0 Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

  3. Sep 21

    Recovery Is More Than Sobriety with Candice Furubayashi

    In this episode of the Addict to Athlete Podcast, Coach Blu welcomes Candice Furubayashi, a woman in long-term recovery whose journey began nearly nine and a half years ago at Mountain Peak Recovery. Candice shares how sponsorship, completing the Twelve Steps, participating in recovery-centered activities, and surrounding herself with supportive people helped her maintain sobriety and build a new way of life. Candice also discusses her transition from a demanding marketing career to yoga, Ayurvedic wellness, and substance use disorder counseling after experiencing burnout, stress, and physical symptoms. Now working at Watercourse Way Wellness, she and Coach Blu explore the importance of addressing core issues, staying connected to a recovery community, making time for play and wellness, and recognizing that lasting recovery cannot be maintained alone. This episode is a powerful reminder that recovery is not only about stopping substance use. It is also about discovering balance, building meaningful connections, turning personal pain into purpose, and using lived experience to help others. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Candice's background 01:59 Candice's early recovery and community involvement 04:07 Transition from corporate marketing to holistic health 05:50 The importance of support systems and sponsors 08:06 The significance of balance and core issues in recovery 09:47 Candice's journey into Ayurveda and holistic practices 11:54 Handling stress and burnout in recovery 14:02 The rule of thirds and the impact of loss in addiction 16:11 The importance of purpose and sharing stories 18:02 Candice's current work and future goals 19:53 Self-discovery and continuous learning in recovery 21:55 The role of holistic health in addiction recovery 23:59 Imposter syndrome and personal growth 26:09 Balancing mind, body, and spirit through Ayurveda 28:11 The importance of self-awareness and reflection 29:58 Candice's advice for those on their recovery journey For More Information https://watercoursewellness.org/ Join Coach Blu and Team Addict II Athlete and begin your recovery with a tram behind you! Our online addiction and mental health program provides live group sessions with Coach Blu, our weekly Home Base, recovery meeting, therapeutic assignments, and educational information at a fraction of what a therapeutic treatment program would require. Take You Mark, Get Set, Let’s Go and click the link below.  https://www.skool.com/addict-ii-athlete-5988/about?ref=9090e81114674311874340c02b1095d0 Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

  4. Aug 17

    The Problematic World of Youth Residential Treatment

    Coach Blu dives into the complex and often problematic world of youth residential treatment programs, or the troubled teen industry in the United States, with a focus on Utah. He shares personal experiences, industry history, regulatory challenges, and the need for reform to better serve youth and families. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode 01:14 Coach Blu's Personal Connection to Treatment Programs 02:24 Focus on Youth Residential Treatment in the US 03:13 Historical Development of Youth Treatment Movement 04:09 Problems with Traditional Treatment Approaches 05:02 Industry Profitability and Oversight Issues 06:26 Exposing Shady Practices and Investigations 08:06 Case Study: Provo Canyon and Paris Hilton 09:33 Infiltrating Treatment Centers and Industry Flaws 11:00 Evolution of Youth Treatment Facilities 13:09 Growth in the 1980s and 1990s 14:35 Profit Motives and Public Funding 16:22 Fragmentation and Lack of Unified Standards 18:05 Historical Roots and State Involvement 19:57 Expansion and Industry Growth in the 80s and 90s 22:17 Private Industry and Marketing Strategies 24:12 Oversight, Accreditation, and Quality Control 27:04 Utah's Role as a Treatment Hub 33:28 Controversies in Wilderness and Outdoor Programs 36:43 Regulation and Oversight Improvements 38:09 Why Utah Became a Major Treatment Center 41:57 Children's Limited Contact and Therapeutic Impact 43:20 Behavioral Modification and Family Dynamics 50:24 Parenting Challenges and Systemic Issues 52:17 Long-term Effects and Adult Voices 54:40 The Need for Systemic Reform and Future Outlook 01:06:16 Upcoming Episodes and Call for Change

  5. Aug 10

    Healing Beyond Recovery with Dr. Christy Bundakamara

    In this episode, Dr. Christy Bundakamara shares her profound insights on the residual effects of addiction, trauma, and grief, emphasizing the importance of mental strength and the power of rewriting internal dialogue to foster recovery and healing. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest 02:23 Understanding the internal dialogue of those struggling with addiction 03:28 The impact of unresolved trauma and grief 04:08 Genetics, environment, and learned behaviors in addiction 05:37 The biology of reward and neural pathways 07:06 The challenge of making good choices amidst trauma 08:47 Movement as a tool for healing and trauma release 11:33 Separating grief from trauma for effective healing 14:07 Addressing guilt and shame in recovery 17:16 The importance of self-forgiveness and personal responsibility 20:00 The misconceptions about addiction and recovery 22:37 The mentally strong method: Think, Organize, Choose 25:17 The role of purpose and spiritual connection in healing 28:51 Personal stories of trauma, loss, and resilience 33:28 The power of rewriting personal narratives 36:54 Building momentum through positive choices 42:44 The importance of self-awareness and self-love 48:28 Understanding the roots of immediate gratification behaviors 52:14 The significance of movement and mental organization in healing 55:19 Closing thoughts and resources for recovery and healing For more info and resources from Dr. Christy Bundakamara: https://mentallystrong.com/ Exclusive Offer for AIIA: athlete.mentallystrong.com Join Coach Blu and Team Addict II Athlete and begin your recovery with a team behind you! Our online addiction and mental health program provides live group sessions with Coach Blu, our weekly Home Base recovery meeting, therapeutic assignments, and educational information at a fraction of what a therapeutic treatment program would require. Take You Mark, Get Set, Let's Go, and click the link below. https://www.skool.com/addict-ii-athlete-5988/about?ref=9090e81114674311874340c02b1095d0 Please join Addict to Athlete's Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety! https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

  6. Jul 20

    Ironman Mindset with Jim Logan

    This week, Coach Blu Robinson sits down with Jim Logan for a powerful Attitude Athlete conversation about transformation through adversity. Jim's journey, from hearing the words "you have cancer" to crossing the finish line as an Ironman, is a testament to what can happen when faith, perseverance, and purpose become stronger than fear. Listen as Jim shares the physical, emotional, and spiritual reality of confronting a cancer diagnosis. Rather than allowing that moment to define the limits of his life, he began rebuilding it, one decision, one workout, one act of faith, and one day at a time. His path to becoming an Ironman was never simply about endurance sports. Training became a vehicle for healing, discipline, gratitude, and rediscovering what his life could mean after survival. The miles represented more than fitness; they reflected a commitment to keep showing up, even when the road was difficult. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 03:00 Facing Adversity and Finding Faith 06:01 The Power of Service and Community 08:59 Acceptance and the Importance of Perspective 12:01 Training and Preparation for Life's Challenges 15:06 The Ironman Experience and Personal Growth 20:38 Empowering Youth Through Swimming 21:08 Endurance and Overcoming Adversity 22:54 The Role of Support Systems 23:51 Humility and Personal Growth 24:19 The Journey of an Ironman 26:11 The Philosophy of Persistence 27:29 Writing as a Legacy 29:39 Transforming Pain into Strength 31:15 Conquering Doubt and Fear 33:33 Daily Renewal of Faith and Discipline 35:35 Inspiration from the Ironman Community 37:33 Living with Purpose and Meaning 38:24 Connecting Through Social Media and Charity Jim's Social Media https://www.instagram.com/stage42025/ Jim's Book "Just Keep Tri-Ing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GX3JNLF7?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback Join Coach Blu and Team Addict II Athlete and begin your recovery with a team behind you! Our online addiction and mental health program provides live group sessions with Coach Blu, our weekly Home Base recovery meeting, therapeutic assignments, and educational information at a fraction of what a therapeutic treatment program would require. Take You Mark, Get Set, Let's Go, and click the link below. https://www.skool.com/addict-ii-athlete-5988/about?ref=9090e81114674311874340c02b1095d0 Please join Addict to Athlete's Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety! https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

    Ironman Mindset with Jim Logan
  7. Jul 13

    Take Your Mark! Jason Gonzalas Building Community and Hope in Tooele County

    In this episode of the Addict II Athlete Podcast, Coach Blu interviews AIIA's Newest Coach, Jason Gonzalas, a dedicated AIIA recovery coach and member of the Addict to Athlete community. They discuss Jason's inspiring journey through addiction, recovery, and his commitment to helping others in Twila County and beyond. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Addict Athlete Podcast 01:30 Jason's Journey to Recovery 03:50 The Role of the Judicial System in Recovery 10:02 Building Relationships and Community Support 12:24 Finding Purpose in Pain 18:20 Embracing Emotions and Mental Health 24:21 The Power of Integrity and Accountability 26:10 Transformative Experiences in Volunteering 30:17 The Power of Teamwork and Community 33:00 Building a Supportive Environment in Recovery 36:39 Long-Term Commitment to Recovery 40:17 Creating Conditions for Courage and Support 43:10 The Journey of Recovery and Emotional Endurance 49:55 Integrating Art and Athletics in Recovery Join Coach Blu and Team Addict II Athlete and begin your recovery with a tram behind you! Our online addiction and mental health program provides live group sessions with Coach Blu, our weekly Home Base recovery meeting, therapeutic assignments, and educational information at a fraction of what a therapeutic treatment program would require. Take You Mark, Get Set, Let's Go, and click the link below. https://www.skool.com/addict-ii-athlete-5988/about?ref=9090e81114674311874340c02b1095d0 Please join Addict to Athlete's Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety! https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

    Take Your Mark! Jason Gonzalas Building Community and Hope in Tooele County
4.8
out of 5
90 Ratings

About

The Addict II Athlete podcast is hosted by Coach Blu Robinson, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and substance abuse counselor who has worked in the field since 2001. He is a fantastic public speaker, coach, and therapist who works with many individuals, youth, couples, and families addressing issues like addiction, trauma, communication, parenting, and more. Blu hopes to provide listeners with the skills and game plans for anyone to turn their mess into their message of hope and a bright future. The AIIA podcast is here to inspire anyone. We share recovery stories, education, life tips, address teen and parenting issues, and more. Our topics address all walks of life but also addiction recovery with tips and fundamentals for those seeking recovery as well as the family and friends of someone who is. Addict II Athlete removes the negative stigma of addiction and mental health and creates a foundation of potential and support. Addict to Athlete is a nonprofit team of peers, friends, and family who have a desire to create a new way of life. By knowing an addict, having been affected by addiction, or being in recovery yourselves, Team Addict II Athlete is here to help. We have come together to help one another with the outcome from all angles of addiction using our Erase and Replace Philosophy. Erase negative behaviors by replacing the void left behind with health, service, support system, and recreation. We are here to carry the message of recovery and change the outlook of addiction. Our goal is to spread the message of recovery to the addict and family of the addict who still struggles with addiction and to show that we have discovered a more excellent way to live. Moving from Addict to Athlete, dismisses the old way of thinking that recovery must remain anonymous as you become an Agent of Sobriety and a Champion of recovery. Help us continue to create podcasts and YouTube videos by becoming a Patreon Supporter https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete

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