Recovery: The Whole Enchilada

Peg McDermott & Heather Hagaman
  • 5.0 (8)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
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Rising Stronger on the Journey to Wholeness & Healing  Recovery: The Whole Enchilada" is a podcast dedicated to exploring the intricate layers of healing and transformation within the recovery community and among individuals seeking personal growth and fulfillment. Inspired by the metaphor of the enchilada's layers, we delve deep into the journey of recovery, unpacking the complexities, challenges, and triumphs that come with seeking holistic wellness. Join us as we navigate the twists and turns of the recovery process, offering insights, guidance, and inspiration for those craving the "whole enchilada" of healing and transformation.And check out our website at https://www.recoverythewholeenchilada.com/  

  1. 2D AGO

    Boundaries of Steel: Staying Sober When Loved Ones Still Drink

    Send a text Hosts Peg McDermott and Heather Hagaman discuss how to care for yourself in sobriety when a partner, spouse, family member, or friend still drinks, including navigating drinking events and living with alcohol in the home.  They reflect on early sobriety experiments, noticing dysfunction, and the importance of having an exit plan, then expand to “boundaries of steel,” compassionate detachment, and avoiding enabling behaviors like ordering drinks or covering for someone.  Peg shares the experience of a partner relapsing and needing outside help to stop rescuing and refocus on personal wellbeing. They emphasize using “I” statements, not labeling others, reducing contact when needed, seeking support, and recognizing that help only works when it’s asked for, all to protect mental, emotional, physical health and long-term sobriety.  00:00 Welcome and Topic   00:55 Early Sobriety Experiments   03:13 Exit Plans and Home Drinking   04:35 Setting Household Boundaries   05:58 When a Partner Relapses   08:14 Protecting Yourself   08:58 Enabling and Detachment   12:27 Rescuing Versus Loving   16:21 Outside Help and Interventions   17:47 Hard Talks and I Statements   20:49 Holistic Sobriety Boundaries   27:21 Protecting Peace Long Term   30:10 Closing and Farewell

    29 min

  2. MAR 5

    Facing Our Shadows: Understanding and Transforming Character Defects

    Send a text Character Defects or Coping Mechanisms?  Hosts Peg McDermott and Heather discuss “character defects,” reframing them as survival-based coping mechanisms rooted in fear and often formed through dysfunctional or traumatic experiences.  They explore how these patterns—people-pleasing, control, resentment, dishonesty, pride, perfectionism, anger, shame, blaming, and self-sabotage—intensified during drinking and can persist in sobriety unless brought into awareness through self-inventory, vulnerability, and professional support.  Peg shares examples from childhood and adulthood to illustrate how early unmet needs shape later relationship choices and recurring patterns, emphasizing that healing requires naming what’s hidden, meeting needs more effectively, and using tools like pausing before reacting and Dan Siegel’s “four S’s” (safe, seen, soothed, secure).  They conclude that coping behaviors can be transformed back into assets when brought into the light, supporting sustained sobriety and healthier relationships.   00:00 Welcome and Topic Setup 01:17 Reframing Defects as Coping 03:35 Peg on People Pleasing and Anger 08:57 Heather Childhood Roots and Alcoho  11:43 Writing Your Story Inventory 12:33 Eraser Story and Breaking Patterns 19:18 Awareness and Self Sabotage 23:15 Willingness Higher Power and Change 26:48 Four S Relationship Check 28:19 Pause Before Reacting 31:11 Seasonal Relationships and Boundaries 32:40 Bring Defects to Light 33:25 Closing Thanks and Subscribe

    34 min

  3. FEB 19

    Beyond the Bottle: A Story of Recovery and Renewal

    Send a text In this episode of "Recovery, the whole enchilada," host Peg McDermott and co-host Heather Haman discuss recovery anniversaries, sparked by Peg’s 31-year sobriety milestone (sobriety date January 27, 1995). Peg recounts getting sober at age 36 in Syracuse, New York, after escalating drinking, shame, multiple car accidents, and a DWI, and describes finding safety and belonging at her first meeting at Grace Episcopal Church at Syracuse University.  The conversation explores how sobriety is maintained one day at a time through meetings, prayer, community support, and service, while recognizing the disease remains in remission on a 24-hour basis. They talk about learning to have fun without alcohol by rebuilding hobbies and social life—softball leagues, dancing, golf, and creative activities—while avoiding high-risk environments tied to past drinking.  They also cover emotional sobriety, managing anxiety around anniversaries, imposter syndrome, gratitude, and noticing other compulsive behaviors like overspending, sugar, isolation, or workaholism. Both reflect on the importance of authentic relationships formed in recovery, the value of “meetings before and after meetings,” and how recovery shifts thinking away from negativity, blame, and resentment toward curiosity, growth, and connection. 00:00 Welcome to Recovery, the Whole Enchilada + Today’s Topic: Anniversaries 00:33 Peg’s 31-Year Sobriety Milestone (Doing the Math) 01:16 What Drinking Looked Like: Escalation, Shame, and Hitting Bottom 03:21 The Turning Point: First Meeting, Feeling Safe, and Finally Belonging 04:43 Consequences & the Elevator Down: DUIs, Accidents, and ‘Not Yet’ 08:43 Staying Sober Long-Term: Moving, Meetings, and One Day at a Time 10:52 Can You Still Have Fun? Relearning Joy Without Alcohol 16:40 Community Beyond the Rooms: Socializing, Real Friendships, and Support 18:05 Emotional Sobriety: Gratitude, Service, and Catching Old Patterns 21:00 Anniversary Anxiety, Imposter Syndrome & the 24-Hour Reprieve 27:49 Surrender, Gratitude, and Why Recovery Is the Greatest Gift 29:30 Closing: Share, Subscribe, and Keep Growing

    30 min

  4. FEB 4

    Beyond the Cold: Embracing Recovery in Winter

    Send a text Welcome to 'Recovery, the Whole Enchilada,' a podcast dedicated to the multifaceted journey of healing within the recovery community. Hosted by Peg McDermott and Heather Hagaman, this episode dives into the challenges of staying sober during the quiet and cold winter months.  With the post-holiday lull, decreased sunlight, and isolation often leading to higher risks of relapse, Peg and Heather share personal experiences and practical tips for maintaining sobriety.  Topics include creating rituals for self-care, the importance of light exposure, strategies for staying connected, and ways to enjoy solitude without falling into isolation. They also discuss incorporating Ayurvedic practices and the power of intention-setting and self-reflection.  Join us for a heartfelt conversation aimed at providing support and inspiration for anyone navigating their sobriety through the winter season. 00:00 Introduction to Recovery, the Whole Enchilada 00:16 Challenges of Staying Sober in Winter 00:59 Coping Strategies for Winter Sobriety 04:00 Rituals and Practices for Winter Well-being 06:53 Personal Reflections on Winter and Sobriety 13:16 The Importance of Connection and Community 20:42 Embracing Quiet and Self-Reflection 26:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    27 min

  5. 12/21/2025

    Rediscovering Joy: Healing During the Holidays

    Send a text Join hosts Peg McDermott and Heather Hagaman on this episode of 'Recovery, The Whole Enchilada' as they explore the concept of joy, particularly during the holiday season.  They share personal stories and insights on how to redefine joy away from substance-induced happiness to genuine, enduring joy through connection, personal growth, and service to others. Heather recounts a touching story about a letter recalling her late father, revealing the power of unexpected kindness and memory in creating joy.  This episode emphasizes the importance of staying present, lowering expectations, and embracing the simple, yet profound joys in life. Whether you are early in your recovery journey or have been on the path for a while, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on finding and nurturing joy.   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:18 Exploring the Concept of Joy 01:00 Redefining Fun and Joy in Recovery 02:19 A Heartwarming Story of Connection 06:31 Finding Joy in Small Acts 08:58 The Importance of Being Present 15:33 Rediscovering Joy Through Hobbies 22:58 The Role of Self-Talk in Experiencing Joy 27:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    29 min

  6. 12/07/2025

    Holiday Survival Tips for Recovery Warriors

    Send a text In this episode of 'Recovery, the Whole Enchilada,' hosts Peg McDermott and Heather Hagaman dive into the complexities of celebrating holidays while on the path to recovery.  They discuss the trigger points of holiday gatherings, share personal stories of overcoming addiction challenges during family events, and offer practical strategies for maintaining sobriety.  From setting boundaries and having exit plans to incorporating self-care routines and creating new traditions, this conversation is packed with insights to help anyone navigate the holiday season while staying committed to their recovery journey. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:26 Navigating Holiday Challenges 01:36 Personal Stories of Holiday Struggles 04:25 Creating New Holiday Traditions 07:33 Strategies for a Sober Holiday 12:20 Maintaining Emotional Sobriety 18:08 Empowerment and Self-Care 31:13 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

    28 min

  7. 11/17/2025

    Navigating Hard Times with Grace and Acceptance

    Send a text Welcome to 'Recovery, the Whole Enchilada,' where hosts Peg McDermott and Heather Hagerman dive into the concept of living life on life's terms. Sharing personal stories and insights, Peg and Heather discuss the importance of acceptance, self-care, and building resilience amidst life's challenges. From navigating sobriety to managing life's unexpected turns, they emphasize that true healing comes from within and the support of a like-minded community. Tune in for an engaging conversation about embracing life's complexities and cultivating a foundation for enduring growth and happiness.   00:00 Introduction to Recovery, the Whole Enchilada 00:23 Living Life on Life's Terms 01:40 Acceptance and Personal Growth 03:04 Building a Spiritual Bank Account 03:26 Forewarned, Forearmed: Being Prepared 03:56 The Reality Check of Sobriety 05:41 Handling Hard Times with Self-Care 11:13 Embracing Life's Challenges and Joys 29:11 The Importance of Community and Support 30:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    30 min

  8. 10/22/2025

    Career Transitions in Sobriety: Navigating the Workplace After Recovery

    Send a text In this episode of 'Recovery, the Whole Enchilada,' hosts Peg and Heather delve into the complex interplay between career changes and recovery from addiction.  They share personal stories and insights on navigating work environments, dealing with job dissatisfaction, and making meaningful career shifts post-recovery.  The conversation touches on maintaining sobriety in professional settings, overcoming workaholism, and leveraging newfound clarity and confidence to explore new career opportunities. Tune in for a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of integrating recovery with professional growth. 00:00 Introduction to Recovery: The Whole Enchilada 00:24 Navigating Career Transitions Post-Recovery 02:51 Personal Stories of Career Changes 07:16 Finding New Opportunities and Growth 10:59 Balancing Sobriety and Professional Life 15:23 Maintaining Emotional Sobriety at Work 31:05 Final Thoughts and Next Episode Preview

    32 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Rising Stronger on the Journey to Wholeness & Healing  Recovery: The Whole Enchilada" is a podcast dedicated to exploring the intricate layers of healing and transformation within the recovery community and among individuals seeking personal growth and fulfillment. Inspired by the metaphor of the enchilada's layers, we delve deep into the journey of recovery, unpacking the complexities, challenges, and triumphs that come with seeking holistic wellness. Join us as we navigate the twists and turns of the recovery process, offering insights, guidance, and inspiration for those craving the "whole enchilada" of healing and transformation.And check out our website at https://www.recoverythewholeenchilada.com/  

Information

  • Creator
    Peg McDermott & Heather Hagaman
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Recovery: The Whole Enchilada
  • Show Website
    Recovery: The Whole Enchilada