The Social Code

The Social Code
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Weekly

The Social Code is a podcast that decodes hidden patterns in human behavior, relationships, and authentic living. Hosts Johnny Petralia and Will Roberts along with occasional guests, explore the masks we wear, unspoken societal rules, and truths we’re often afraid to share. Each episode provides relatable insights into personal growth, vulnerability, and freedom from societal expectations. Whether navigating life’s complexities or seeking genuine connection, The Social Code helps you unlock potential and embrace your true self. Listen, learn, and join the conversation.

  1. 5h ago

    #73 - The Hardest Part Comes After | Nicholas Writtenberry

    The most dangerous stretch of recovery may be the first few months after the program ends. Nick, who left the Cookeville Rescue Mission program and moved out on his own, shares what keeps him on track. His answer is community. He chairs a Thursday meeting, goes to church midweek, and is attending a men's group. Pete and Johnny explain why people who do well inside a program can slip once the structure disappears and the isolation sets in. You'll hear: ​Nick's "seed" picture of how the program changed him, and why he waited a year before getting into a relationship​Why one host thinks you shouldn't sponsor someone you live with, and how Nick is handling the request from his roommate​Why sharing in a meeting can still make your heart pound after a year, and the hosts' theories about where that nervousness comes from​A detour through introverts, extroverts, ambiverts, and Type A, B, C and D personalities, with everyone trying to figure out which one they are Then the conversation turns to cars. Pete explains the "walkaway power" that got him a truck for about $1,500 less than he offered, and why we should never talk payments with a dealer. The episode ends with each person's most useless talent and a closing prayer requested by Nick. Nick's story of how he got into the program is in episode 68, which he recorded with Gary. Perfect for anyone in recovery, anyone supporting someone who is, or anyone who likes honest conversation that wanders and still lands.

  2. Oct 25

    #72 - Voices of Revival for Recovery

    Different voices. Different journeys. One Jesus changing lives. The Social Code took the microphones to Revival for Recovery at Hamilton Community Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for conversations about faith, recovery, and finding purpose on the other side of struggle. Recorded October 10, 2026, this episode brings together interviews with rap artists and people serving through ministries, recovery homes, and employment opportunities for those rebuilding their lives. They share pieces of their testimonies, the role Jesus has played in their recovery, and how they’re helping others move forward. Hosted by the Tennessee Council for Recovery in partnership with the American Addiction Recovery Association, this gathering connected people around hope and the possibility of a new beginning. Whether you’re in recovery, love someone who is, or need a reminder that your past doesn’t have to decide your future, there’s something here for you.

  3. Oct 15

    #71 - The Strength to Surrender

    The Social Code welcomes Gary Frady back for “The Strength to Surrender,” an honest conversation about humility, letting go, and asking God to change what we haven’t been able to change ourselves. Why do we keep reaching for the same habits, attitudes, and defenses even when they’re costing us peace? We explore the courage it takes to admit our shortcomings, loosen our grip on control, and become willing to live differently. What if the next breakthrough begins with three words: “God, help me”?

  4. Oct 8

    #70 - Rob Ekno | A Wild Past. A God-Given Future

    The Social Code sits down with author Rob Ekno for a conversation about a wild past, unexpected turning points, and finding a new direction through God. Rob reflects on the journey from addiction and chaos to faith, purpose, and a changed life. We also talk about his books, including Is It God or Coincidence? and Cruising Toward Heaven, and the experiences that inspired him to share his story. An honest conversation about second chances and what can happen when you stop running and start trusting God.

  5. Sep 30

    #69 - Lazy G Ranch | Eddie and Frida Gaw

    Eddie and Frida Gaw join The Social Code for a conversation that travels from Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner to life on the Lazy G Ranch -and the nearly 250 bison that call it home. Frida shares stories from her childhood around country music, including the time Dolly took her for cotton candy and the conversation she once had with Sam Walton without realizing who he was. Eddie explains how he moved from raising cattle to bison, what it takes to care for these powerful animals, and why their behavior continues to amaze him. Along the way, the Gaws talk about the dangers of working with bison, their family's life on the ranch, and the community traditions they've built-including a free annual live nativity and a chuck wagon cook-off. It's a warm, funny conversation about animals, local history, faith, family, and the many ways to give back to your community.

  6. Sep 27

    #68 - The Truth That Changed Everything | Gary Frady & Nicholas Writtenberry

    A year in recovery can change everything—but only if you stop trying to save the old you. Nick and Gary share the raw, funny, and deeply honest story of what happens when addiction, ego, and shame finally meet surrender. What starts as a conversation about graduation at the Cookeville Rescue Mission Life Recovery Program turns into a powerful look at the moment both men realized they could not keep running their lives. Gary opens up about addiction, an overdose experience, a court arrest, and the breaking point that led him to fully surrender. Nick shares his own path through addiction, recovery, accountability, and the slow, difficult work of allowing God to transform his life. You'll hear them discuss: Why step one-admitting powerlessness—is harder than it sounds How step four exposes hidden patterns behind resentment, pride, and self-protection Why making amends can become a turning point in recovery How sponsorship, accountability, and honest community help keep recovery alive What it feels like when your old life begins to die and a new one starts Why lasting change comes through consistency and discipline—not quick fixes Along the way, Nick and Gary explain the 12-step process in plain language, including the "four columns" inventory, the difference between understanding the steps and truly surrendering, and the importance of choosing a new path one day at a time. Their conversation moves from addiction, legal trouble, and destructive patterns to faith, spiritual awakening, brotherhood, and the daily decision to live differently. This episode is for anyone in recovery, anyone supporting a loved one, or anyone who needs hope that God can still rewrite a story that feels beyond repair.

  7. Sep 18

    #67 -Willingness, Not Knowledge, Is What Actually Changes You

    You can know exactly what is broken in you and still keep defending it. That is the trap this conversation explores—the moment awareness stops short of willingness, and the same old patterns keep running the show. Johnny, Pete, and Stan get honest about the survival strategies that once protected them but can later hold them back: control, anger, people-pleasing, perfectionism, sarcasm, resentment, and the need to be right. What begins as a conversation about willingness becomes a deeper look at why change is so difficult—and why familiar pain can sometimes feel safer than unfamiliar freedom.If you’ve ever said, “I know what my issue is,” but still struggled to let it go, this episode is for you. Real change may begin with a simple question:What are you still protecting?

  8. Sep 11

    #66 - Happy Days with Bob Sotis

    Bob Sotis shares the funny, honest, and deeply redemptive story behind his addiction, recovery, faith, and decades of service throughout the Upper Cumberland. From growing up in Pittsburgh and working in restaurants, DJ booths, and nightlife to helping establish some of Cookeville’s earliest Narcotics Anonymous meetings, Bob explains how sobriety changed far more than his habits. It changed the direction of his life. He opens up about the friendships that carried him, why service became essential to his recovery, and how God used his experience in business and hospitality to prepare him for ministry. The conversation also explores Bob’s leadership at Life Church, his work with Life Recovery, the importance of mentorship, and how generosity through efforts like the Dollar Club creates a real impact in the community. Bob also shares the deeply personal story of his wife Julie’s battle with cancer and the faith, prayer, and support that carried their family through it. This episode is about addiction, second chances, friendship, purpose, and what can happen when an ordinary person surrenders his story to God. If you need proof that recovery is real, brokenness can become ministry, and a transformed life can help transform others, this conversation is for you.

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5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

The Social Code is a podcast that decodes hidden patterns in human behavior, relationships, and authentic living. Hosts Johnny Petralia and Will Roberts along with occasional guests, explore the masks we wear, unspoken societal rules, and truths we’re often afraid to share. Each episode provides relatable insights into personal growth, vulnerability, and freedom from societal expectations. Whether navigating life’s complexities or seeking genuine connection, The Social Code helps you unlock potential and embrace your true self. Listen, learn, and join the conversation.

Information

  • Creator
    The Social Code
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    73
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Social Code
  • Show Website
    The Social Code

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