The Rehab

The Rehab

In this episode, host Dr. Mark Leeds interviews Ginelle Testa, author of the upcoming memoir "Make a Home Out of You."  Ginelle Testa is a writer and content marketer based in Boston, MA. She holds a master's degree in digital marketing and design from Brandeis University. Testa has overcome addiction, eating disorders, and relationship issues, using her experiences to craft a powerful memoir. Her work has been featured in various publications, and she is passionate about helping others through sharing her story. This insightful conversation explores Testa's journey through addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. Testa discusses her upcoming memoir, which details her struggles with substance abuse, disordered eating, and unhealthy relationships. She shares her experiences with various recovery programs, including Alcoholics Anonymous and Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous, and how these have shaped her healing process. The discussion touches on important topics such as codependency, the challenges of writing about personal experiences, and the process of publishing a memoir. Testa provides valuable insights into her writing process, including her participation in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) as a catalyst for her book. Dr. Leeds and Testa also delve into broader topics related to addiction and recovery, including the use of medication-assisted treatments, the role of 12-step programs, and the complexities of eating disorders. They explore the concept of "making a home in oneself" as a crucial aspect of recovery and personal growth. The episode offers listeners a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of overcoming addiction and finding self-acceptance. Testa's story provides hope and inspiration for those struggling with similar issues, while offering valuable perspectives on the recovery process. Please visit our websites: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com

Episodes

  1. 04/15/2025

    Eudania Burrell Living a Life of Financial Success and Fulfillment in Recovery

    Join us on this inspiring episode as we dive into the incredible story of Eudania Burrell, a successful real estate investor and coach, and an accomplished federal agent, who has turned her life around after overcoming addiction in the late 90s. From her struggles with addiction to her flourishing career at the Department of Homeland Security, Eudania's journey is a testament to resilience and the power of self-belief. As a highly respected real estate investor and coach at Connected Investors, Eudania not only helps others achieve their dreams, but also continues to work diligently in her demanding role as a federal agent. Her dedication to both her professional and personal life makes her an extraordinary example of what one can achieve in recovery. In our conversation with Eudania, we discuss her unique approach to addiction recovery, acknowledging that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Through her experiences, she has come to understand that individuals may follow different paths towards healing, and it is crucial to respect and support those diverse journeys. Listen in as we explore Eudania's path to success, her insights on overcoming addiction, and her unwavering commitment to living a life of fulfillment and purpose. This powerful story of resilience and transformation is one you won't want to miss. Please visit our websites here: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com. Thank you!

    37 min
  2. 03/20/2025

    Eric Fisher and The Martial Art of Recovery: A Fresh Perspective on Addiction Recovery

    Eric Fisher's life story is one that intertwines the discipline of martial arts with the transformative power of recovery. As a young man, Eric was captivated by the mystique and philosophy of martial arts. Eric's imagination was sparked by the imagery he associated with martial arts: mastery, focus, and an indomitable spirit.This fascination led Eric down a path of dedication and resilience, eventually culminating in his own journey of personal recovery. Recognizing the potent parallels between the teachings of martial arts and the process of recovering from life's challenges, Eric went on to author a book. His work explores this unique nexus, sharing insights on how the focus and discipline learned in martial arts can be leveraged to aid in recovery and personal growth. Eric's story is a testament to the power of integrating these two worlds, and through his book, he hopes to inspire others to find balance and strength within themselves. In this episode of The Rehab, host Dr. Mark Leeds is joined by guest Eric Fisher to discuss Eric's upcoming book, "The Martial Art of Recovery." The book aims to provide practical and down-to-earth concepts that can aid those in recovery from addiction. Eric shares his excitement about the unique approach to recovery and draws parallels between martial arts, spirituality, and addiction treatment. The conversation goes into various addictions, the challenges of treating substances like cocaine and cannabis, and the complexities of dependence and addiction. The episode concludes with a look at pre-order details and how to connect with Eric Fisher. Join us for this enlightening discussion on addiction and recovery. Please visit our websites here: https://therehab.com and https://drleeds.com.

    27 min
  3. 02/07/2025

    Filmmaker Paul Perrier: Exploring Addiction and Mental Health Across Canada

    Filmmaker Paul Perrier: Exploring Addiction and Mental Health Across Canada    Paul Perrier's Journey: Biking Across Canada to Raise Awareness The Inspiration Behind the Ride Have you ever felt the urge to break free and do something extraordinary? Paul Perrier, the author of "Cracked Wide Open," decided to pursue such a dream. In an incredible act of courage and commitment, Paul embarked on a cross-Canada bike tour to promote his book and raise mental health awareness. Leaving Toronto on July 1 and covering an astounding 5500 kilometers, his route traversed from Saint John's in the east to Vancouver and back to Toronto. Facing Challenges Head-On Cycling such a vast distance posed numerous, sometimes unexpected, challenges. Paul admitted, "I naively kinda went out there going out how hard could this be," but soon realized the reality was quite different. Despite these difficulties, he aimed to explore the state of Canada post-COVID. Along the way, he observed severe addiction and homelessness issues. Paul felt that these social problems had worsened compared to his earlier film on drug addiction. Meeting People and Hearing Stories Throughout his journey, Paul encountered a diverse range of individuals. Many came forward to share their experiences, from former addicts to those currently struggling with homelessness. These interactions were often spontaneous and unplanned. The conversations added a profound depth to his ride, shedding light on the human stories behind addiction and homelessness. Documenting the Pilgrimage Paul's journey was more than just a bike ride; it was meticulously documented. Using only his iPhone and a 360-degree camera, he captured remarkable footage of the entire trip. This visual diary is now being edited into a compelling film. The movie will interweave stunning Canadian landscapes with the harsh realities of addiction, offering a unique and immersive perspective. The Spiritual and Personal Impact For Paul, this journey was a form of pilgrimage, deeply personal and spiritual. He confessed, "I needed to get out of Toronto," highlighting the therapeutic impact of his expedition. Cycling across Canada's vast, breathtaking landscapes offered him a sense of tranquility and connectedness. It provided an opportunity to explore both himself and larger societal issues more profoundly. Paul Perrier's journey was not just a physical endeavor but an eye-opening experience. By facing challenges head-on, meeting diverse individuals, and documenting his trip, Paul created a narrative that is both compelling and essential. In your own life, how will you step out of your comfort zone and make an impact? Please visit our websites: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com

    1h 2m
  4. 01/06/2025

    Transforming Patient Experience in Mental Health with Brad Stoddard

    Here is a podcast description based on the interview with Brad Stoddard: Brad Stoddard is a healthcare entrepreneur who has made it his mission to improve the patient experience in mental health care. Despite not having a clinical background himself, Brad has used his business acumen and customer service mindset to transform Sunrise Mental Health. In less than a year, Sunrise Mental Health has already outgrown its original office space due to the welcoming, upscale environment Brad and his team have created. By focusing on the details - from the office decor to providing snacks and drinks in the waiting room - they aim to make patients feel calm and cared for from the moment they walk in. Brad also prioritizes hiring genuinely friendly front desk staff to greet patients. But Brad's approach goes beyond superficial touches. Sunrise responds to all patient inquiries within minutes, even calling back missed calls when no voicemail is left. They offer both in-person and telehealth appointments to maximize convenience. And Brad analyzes the patient journey from A to Z to identify and address any potential pain points or frustrations.  The results speak for themselves - Sunrise is rapidly growing through word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied patients. Brad's experience demonstrates the power of prioritizing the patient experience in healthcare. By combining business best practices with a true commitment to customer service, mental health practices can create an environment where patients feel welcomed and supported. While clinicians need to focus on providing excellent care, partnering with business leaders who share their values can take the patient experience to the next level. Brad Stoddard is leading by example and showing what's possible when mental healthcare puts patients first. Please visit Sunrise Mental Health here: https://www.srmentalhealth.com/ And, please visit our podcast websites here: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com.

    32 min
  5. 12/13/2024

    Caught in the Crosshairs of American Healthcare by Lloyd Sederer, M.D.

    Dr. Lloyd I. Sederer, MD, is a distinguished psychiatrist, public health expert, and prolific non-fiction author. He is an Adjunct Professor at the Columbia University School of Public Health. He has served as as the Chief Medical Officer/Executive Vice President of McLean Hospital, a Harvard teaching hospital; Mental Health Commissioner of New York City (in the Bloomberg administration); and Chief Medical Officer of the New York State Office of Mental Health, the nation's largest state Mental Health Agency, Dr. Sederer has played pivotal roles in shaping mental health policies and responses. He's renowned for leading major mental health disaster responses, notably for the events of September 11th and the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Dr. Sederer has been recognized with numerous awards, such as the Doctor of the Year award from The National Council on Behavioral Health; he has also served as a Rockefeller Foundation Scholar in Residence and received the Exemplary Psychiatrist Award from the National Alliance on Mental Illness. His professional association, the American Psychiatric Association (APA), named him Psychiatric Administrator of the Year, and in a different year, he received the APA's award for Excellence in Teaching Residents. Dr. Sederer has published 14 books, the first seven for medical professionals (two with multiple editions) and, more recently, seven for a general audience. He has published approximately 500 articles for print and online publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Scientific American, The Lancet, Medscape, The Atlantic, The Tennessean, Commonweal, and US News and World Report (where he wrote an Opinion column). He was Medical Editor for Mental Health at the HuffPost, where more than 100 of his articles, audios, and videos appeared. Currently, he is a Contributing Writer for Psychology Today (with more than 100 articles to his name), Psychiatric Times, and The New York Journal of Books. Dr. Sederer lives in Concord, New Hampshire, with his wife and dog. His extensive expertise makes him a compelling guest for our podcast, where we'll explore his insights on mental health, public health, and the evolving landscape of healthcare. In this episode of "The Rehab," host Mark Leeds, D.O., and guest Lloyd Sederer, M.D., engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the complexities of the American healthcare system. Dr. Sederer, a distinguished psychiatrist and public health expert, sheds light on the challenges faced within the industry, drawing from his extensive experience. The conversation touches on various issues, from the influence of for-profit corporations to the impact on patient care and the healthcare workforce. Dr. Sederer shares compelling insights from his latest book, "Caught in the Crosshairs of American Healthcare," where he outlines the pervasive influence of profit-driven entities and offers potential solutions for patients, healthcare professionals, and the judicial system. Join Mark Leeds and Dr. Lloyd Sederer as they delve into this critical analysis of the American healthcare landscape and explore actionable measures to address its complexities. Visit Dr. Lloyd Sederer at https://askdrlloyd.com. Please visit our websites here: https://therehab.com and https://drleeds.com.

    25 min
  6. 11/18/2024

    The Mapmaker's Path: Navigating Trauma, Addiction, and Self-Discovery with Lorraine Nilon

    Welcome back to another captivating episode of The Rehab, where we explore the depths of personal growth, self-reflection, and overcoming addiction. In this highly anticipated installment, host Mark Leeds, D.O., welcomes esteemed guest Lorraine Nilon, spiritual explorer and author. Join us as we delve into the profound journey of reconnecting with our inner truth, embracing authenticity, and navigating the complexities of recovery. In this episode, Mark and Lorraine dive deep into the importance of acknowledging and honoring our emotions, shedding light on the fear and resistance many individuals face when confronted with their true selves. Together, they highlight the detrimental effects of suppressing emotions and carrying negative beliefs and baggage, emphasizing the crucial role of self-reflection in the recovery process. Lorraine's unique perspective on spirituality brings a whole new dimension to the discussion. Drawing from personal encounters with the supernatural, she discusses her belief in experiences beyond the physical world and the significance of individual souls within the vastness of the universe. Through exploration and a personal relationship with the unknown, Lorraine encourages listeners to go beyond belief systems and develop a friendship with the mysterious. The conversation takes an illuminating turn as Mark recounts his own journey and realization that he is meant to work independently rather than for others. Layered with personal anecdotes and insights, he shares his transition into podcasting and the profound sense of fulfillment he derives from sharing information through this powerful medium. Throughout the episode, Lorraine's expertise in helping people through the recovery process shines through. She provides valuable wisdom and practical advice, reminding us of the importance of finding what resonates with us individually, rather than succumbing to societal expectations or belief systems that do not align with our own truth. As the conversation unfolds, Lorraine delves into the transformative power of self-reflection and its role in nurturing personal growth and finding inner peace. She speaks passionately about her work with childhood abuse victims and addiction to victimhood, offering valuable insights on understanding oneself, addressing deep-seated emotions, and cultivating a sense of purpose in life. Listeners will also learn about Lorraine's remarkable online course for self-reflection, currently running a special until December, as well as her podcast, "Lorraine Nilon, spiritual explorer," where she continues to guide and inspire others on their journey of self-discovery. So, make sure to tune in to this thought-provoking episode, as Mark Leeds and Lorraine Nilon guide us through the labyrinthine paths of recovery, reconnecting, and rejuvenation. Get ready to embark on an awe-inspiring exploration of the human spirit and find solace in the power that lies within you. Stay tuned! And please visit Dr. Mark Leeds here: https://drleeds.com and at our podcast website: https://therehab.com

    50 min
  7. 10/16/2024

    Making a Home Out of You: Ginelle Testa on Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Self

    In this episode, host Dr. Mark Leeds interviews Ginelle Testa, author of the upcoming memoir "Make a Home Out of You."  Ginelle Testa is a writer and content marketer based in Boston, MA. She holds a master's degree in digital marketing and design from Brandeis University. Testa has overcome addiction, eating disorders, and relationship issues, using her experiences to craft a powerful memoir. Her work has been featured in various publications, and she is passionate about helping others through sharing her story. This insightful conversation explores Testa's journey through addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. Testa discusses her upcoming memoir, which details her struggles with substance abuse, disordered eating, and unhealthy relationships. She shares her experiences with various recovery programs, including Alcoholics Anonymous and Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous, and how these have shaped her healing process. The discussion touches on important topics such as codependency, the challenges of writing about personal experiences, and the process of publishing a memoir. Testa provides valuable insights into her writing process, including her participation in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) as a catalyst for her book. Dr. Leeds and Testa also delve into broader topics related to addiction and recovery, including the use of medication-assisted treatments, the role of 12-step programs, and the complexities of eating disorders. They explore the concept of "making a home in oneself" as a crucial aspect of recovery and personal growth. The episode offers listeners a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of overcoming addiction and finding self-acceptance. Testa's story provides hope and inspiration for those struggling with similar issues, while offering valuable perspectives on the recovery process. Please visit our websites: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com

    33 min

About

In this episode, host Dr. Mark Leeds interviews Ginelle Testa, author of the upcoming memoir "Make a Home Out of You."  Ginelle Testa is a writer and content marketer based in Boston, MA. She holds a master's degree in digital marketing and design from Brandeis University. Testa has overcome addiction, eating disorders, and relationship issues, using her experiences to craft a powerful memoir. Her work has been featured in various publications, and she is passionate about helping others through sharing her story. This insightful conversation explores Testa's journey through addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. Testa discusses her upcoming memoir, which details her struggles with substance abuse, disordered eating, and unhealthy relationships. She shares her experiences with various recovery programs, including Alcoholics Anonymous and Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous, and how these have shaped her healing process. The discussion touches on important topics such as codependency, the challenges of writing about personal experiences, and the process of publishing a memoir. Testa provides valuable insights into her writing process, including her participation in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) as a catalyst for her book. Dr. Leeds and Testa also delve into broader topics related to addiction and recovery, including the use of medication-assisted treatments, the role of 12-step programs, and the complexities of eating disorders. They explore the concept of "making a home in oneself" as a crucial aspect of recovery and personal growth. The episode offers listeners a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of overcoming addiction and finding self-acceptance. Testa's story provides hope and inspiration for those struggling with similar issues, while offering valuable perspectives on the recovery process. Please visit our websites: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com