Steel City Round Table Podcast

Mark Kneebone

The Steel City Round Table is a podcast based out of Pittsburgh PA. I have one goal...having real conversations about the real deal going on in the world. I am no false prophet and don't assume to have the answers. My name is Mark Kneebone and I am a former police officer who has made a ton of bad choices in my life and I've been around the block. I'm tired of the division and lack of communication I see on the daily. No one likes to talk about the ugliness in the real world. That's not me, I want to hear what you have to say. Let's get dirty!!

  1. Aug 10

    Brothers in recovery and life get real!

    Three years after meeting in treatment, Mark Kneebone and Hunter Shinnebarger sit down for a brutally honest recovery conversation about what actually changes a life, and what doesn’t. If you’re struggling with addiction, mental health, or the fear that sobriety means losing everything, this episode will hit home fast.Mark and Hunter reconnect over the kind of story most people only tell once they’re far enough out to see it clearly: a sheltered upbringing, early anxiety and OCD, the slow slide from sports kid to daily use, and the family fallout that makes getting clean feel almost impossible. But the real power of the conversation is what happens next - the moment both men start naming the tools that helped them survive the dark days after treatment, not just get through detox. Key topics Mark introduces Hunter as someone he met in treatment, and they talk about how sobriety kept them connected.Hunter shares how a sports-focused, Christian school upbringing led into partying, alcohol, and weed in high school and college.He explains that OCD and anxiety made substances feel like relief at first.Hunter talks about his father’s addiction, relapse, and the family impact it had over time.He opens up about the pain and anger that pushed him toward treatment.Hunter describes going to treatment for both substance use and serious mental health struggles.Mark and Hunter reflect on how recovery is really about finding root causes, not just stopping the substance.Hunter explains what made the Transformations program helpful: structure, freedom, community, and support.The episode closes with both men stressing that recovery works best when you do it with others.

  2. Jul 12

    My journey back to my calling...I was lost in the weeds.

    Most of us forget what truly matters in life until we’re faced with a hard reset. Uncle Mark’s candid return dives deep into the healing power of gratitude, reminding us why sobriety is a gift—one we often take for granted.After three months away, Mark shares his journey back, revealing how slipping into the social media cycle made him lose sight of his purpose. He opens up about attending an AA meeting with just four people—and finding profound lessons in gratitude, connection, and the fleeting nature of life. Whether it’s the little moments with loved ones or the memories we cherish, Mark emphasizes that life’s true value isn’t in possessions, but in relationships and memories that can never be replaced.You’ll discover tactical insights on how gratitude can prevent relapse, why focusing on what’s truly important leads to fulfillment, and how reclaiming your life starts with appreciation. Mark breaks down how the chaos of modern life often blinds us to life’s simple, powerful truths—truths that can anchor us through tough times and help us live more intentionally.This episode is a powerful reminder for anyone navigating recovery, feeling lost in the noise of social media, or seeking to reconnect with what really matters. If you’ve ever wondered how to find clarity and purpose in a chaotic world, this honest, raw conversation offers clarity and hope. It’s a call to slow down, cherish the present, and never forget the gift of life itself.Perfect for anyone in recovery, or folks craving a reset and a fresh perspective on gratitude and meaningful living. Tune in and let Uncle Mark inspire you to prioritize what truly matters—because life is precious, and the moments that matter are right in front of us. #soberlife #gratitude #thankful #driven #focus

  3. May 7

    Relapse is possible but not inevitable...it's up to us!

    Three years sober and everyday is an adventure. When I started my sobriety journey all I was concerned with was ending my self imposed prison. I wanted to find a way out of the miserable existence I had shaped for myself. I did not know what to do, I just knew something had to change. The further along my journey I went, the more I evolved as a person internally. My decisions, action, thoughts and every part of me began to change. I had been given a gift, the ability and desire to help others. As I changed so did my outlook. I no longer wanted to be selfish and self absorbed. I realized that I wanted to be kinder and more respectful of others. Sharing my experiences is the primary focal point of my recovery. In this episode I share my thoughts on relapse, personal evolution, and growth from who I was into the man that I am trying to be. Remember: Recovery is a journey, not a destination. Each day is an opportunity to choose growth over stagnation, hope over despair. Keep helping yourself and others along the way. Key Topics Mark's personal milestone: Three years sober as of May 5, 2026The reality of relapse and preparing for setbacksAddiction as a symptom of deeper mental health strugglesThe cycle of substance abuse: emotional, mental, and physical influencesThe importance of self-awareness and responsibility in recoveryRebuilding identity: leaving behind the old self to become who you want to beThe role of internal growth: character development and emotional resiliencePractical steps to prevent relapse: community, helping others, and self-reflectionThe significance of forming healthier habits and patterns post-recoveryEncouragement: change is possible with effort and dedication

  4. Apr 16

    From Drunk Decisions to Clear Choices: The Mental Shift That Saved My Life

    Ever wonder why your decision-making skills resemble a squirrel on espresso? Do we really have control over our choices when we're in the throes of addiction? And what's the deal with those mental roadblocks?I might not have all the answers, but I've got a PhD in making questionable life choices. My past was a series of drunken decisions and their delightful consequences. Sobriety didn't magically turn me into a decision-making guru; it just gave me the chance to work on my inner chaos, grow a bit, and maybe even think logically once in a while.Fear used to be my co-pilot, but now, almost three years sober, I'm still working on upgrading my decision-making software. There's no expiration date on our blunders, but hey, we can always rewrite the script for a better sequel. The past? It's just a GPS for who we don't want to be. It doesn't define us or put a cap on our happiness.In this episode, I spill the beans on my epic decision fails and how life is slowly turning around. So, grab your popcorn, make the choice to heal, and never stop fighting for your own happy ending. Takeaways Recovery rewires the brain from addiction patterns.Emotional states heavily influence decisions.Embrace discomfort to break old habits.Recovery is an ongoing journey, not a destination.Community support boosts recovery success.Untreated mental health affects everyday choices.Self-love is key to lasting change. Hashtags #RecoveryJourney#MentalHealthAwareness#SobrietySuccess#AddictionRecovery#MindfulLiving#SelfCompassion#CommunitySupport#GrowthMindset#EmotionalWellbeing#HealthyChoices

    From Drunk Decisions to Clear Choices: The Mental Shift That Saved My Life

About

The Steel City Round Table is a podcast based out of Pittsburgh PA. I have one goal...having real conversations about the real deal going on in the world. I am no false prophet and don't assume to have the answers. My name is Mark Kneebone and I am a former police officer who has made a ton of bad choices in my life and I've been around the block. I'm tired of the division and lack of communication I see on the daily. No one likes to talk about the ugliness in the real world. That's not me, I want to hear what you have to say. Let's get dirty!!