The Other Side of Addiction

Al Richards
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

This is a podcast that focuses on addiction. It is an engaging and informative platform that explores various aspects of addiction, offering valuable insights, personal stories, expert interviews, and practical advice. Such a podcast seeks to raise awareness, foster understanding, and provide support for individuals struggling with addiction or those affected by it. The podcast may cover a wide range of addictive behaviors, including substance abuse, alcohol, gambling, sex, porn, gaming and more. It aims to shed light on the complexities and challenges faced by individuals dealing with addiction, while also addressing the impact on their relationships, mental health, and overall well-being. A podcast discussing addiction typically combines a compassionate and non-judgmental approach with evidence-based information and strategies. It may feature interviews with addiction specialists, psychologists, counselors, and individuals who have overcome addiction themselves. These discussions often touch upon the causes of addiction, physiological effects, treatment options, and the importance of support networks. The podcast may also delve into related topics like relapse prevention, coping mechanisms, harm reduction strategies, and the process of recovery. It can provide practical tips, resources, and techniques to manage cravings, develop healthy habits, and rebuild a fulfilling life after addiction. Listeners of an addiction-focused podcast can expect to gain a deeper understanding of addiction, dispel misconceptions, and discover valuable resources to support their own recovery or that of a loved one. The podcast serves as a source of inspiration, encouragement, and education, offering hope and a sense of community to those affected by addiction.

  1. Navigating Fear With Hope, With Chalese Olsen

    Jun 22

    Navigating Fear With Hope, With Chalese Olsen

    This episode was sponsored by EMERGO ACADEMY/emergoacademy.com Navigating Fear With Hope What would you do if life handed you every parent's worst nightmare—not once, but twice? On this episode of The Other Side of Addiction, I sat down with Chalese Olsen, a woman whose story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of faith, and the resilience we discover when we have no choice but to keep moving forward. In 2004, Chalese lost her four-year-old son in a tragic drowning accident. The unimaginable grief sent her spiraling into a dark place as she struggled to make sense of a loss no parent should ever have to endure. Like so many who experience trauma, she searched for ways to ease the pain, only to realize that the path she was on wasn't healing her—it was deepening the hurt. Through time, faith, and courage, Chalese began the difficult work of healing. She eventually shared her journey through writing, becoming an author, speaker, and mentor to others navigating loss and grief. Then life tested her again. Years later, her son DeeJ suffered a traumatic brain injury after being accidentally shot in the head. In an instant, Chalese found herself back in a hospital facing uncertainty, fear, and the terrifying thought: "Not again." For 25 days she lived between hope and heartbreak, unsure if her son would survive. She describes the experience as an emotional hangover—a constant state of exhaustion, fear, prayer, and waiting. Yet through it all, she leaned into her faith, choosing hope even when the outcome was unknown. Against overwhelming odds, DeeJ survived. Doctors called it a miracle. Our conversation explores what it means to survive trauma, not just endure it. We discuss giving ourselves grace during life's hardest moments, trusting God when answers don't come easily, and finding the strength to keep moving forward when fear threatens to consume us. Chalese reminds us that healing isn't a destination. It's a journey. Some wounds leave scars, but scars are proof that we've survived. If you've experienced loss, trauma, grief, or life's unexpected challenges, this episode will remind you that you are not alone. There is hope on the other side of fear, and even in our darkest moments, healing is possible. Sometimes courage isn't the absence of fear. Sometimes courage is simply choosing hope anyway.

    1 hr
  2. Wild Serenity, Reclaim Your Style, Power, and Peace From The Inside Out With Maren

    Jun 16

    Wild Serenity, Reclaim Your Style, Power, and Peace From The Inside Out With Maren

    This Episode Was Sponsored By EMERGO ACADEMY/emergoacademy.com LADIES, This is a show you'll definitely want to watch... What if the way you show up in the world is simply a reflection of how you feel about yourself on the inside? In this episode, I sit down with Maren Swenson, founder of Wild Serenity, to explore the connection between self-worth, self-expression, and personal freedom. While many people see fashion as clothing, Maren sees it as something much deeper—an outward reflection of the truth we have reclaimed within ourselves. We discuss why so many women spend their lives seeking approval, validation, and permission to be who they truly are. We talk about the wounds that leave people feeling unseen, unheard, and unworthy, and how those wounds often lead to hiding our voice, stuffing our emotions, and living according to someone else's expectations. Maren shares how powerful it becomes when a woman reconnects with her inner voice, trusts herself again, and begins expressing who she is without apology. As confidence grows from within, everything begins to change—from the way she speaks, to the boundaries she sets, to the way she presents herself to the world. This conversation is about more than style. It's about authenticity. It's about healing. It's about finding the courage to stop asking for approval and start honoring the person you were created to be. Because true beauty isn't found in what you wear. It's found in finally giving yourself permission to be seen. www.marenswenson.com #WildSerenity #TheOtherSideOfAddiction #HealingJourney #SelfWorth #Authenticity #PersonalGrowth #FindingYourVoice #InnerPeace #SelfExpression #WomenEmpowerment #Transformation

    1h 11m
  3. "Growth is Absolutely Possible" with Michelle Peacock

    Jun 11

    "Growth is Absolutely Possible" with Michelle Peacock

    This Episode was sponsored by EMERGO ACADEMY/emergoacademy.com “Friday’s conversation reminded me of something we don’t talk about enough… Growth doesn’t have to be complicated. It doesn’t have to be perfect. And it sure doesn’t have to look like what anyone else says it should. I sat down with Michelle Peacock—founder of Michelle Cares Inc.—and what stood out most wasn’t just what she’s built… it’s how she lives it. We talked about something simple, but powerful… giving back. Volunteering. Showing up. Not because you have it all figured out—but because you’re willing to take one step forward. For so many in recovery, confidence gets lost along the way. And Michelle shared how something as small as helping someone else… can be the very thing that helps you start believing in yourself again. This episode is real. It’s human. It’s a reminder that healing isn’t fancy—it’s connection, it’s laughter, it’s showing up… even when you feel like you’re held together with coffee and determination. Growth is absolutely possible… and this conversation proves it.” michellecares.com https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551563316118

    1h 1m

  4. Jun 9

    The Stoic Alcoholic: It's not Only About Counting Days With Benton Savage.

    This episode was sponsored by EMERGO ACADEMY/emergoacademy.com What if recovery wasn’t just about counting days… but about rebuilding your entire way of thinking? In this raw and unfiltered episode, I sit down with Benton Savage—author, entrepreneur, and a man who has lived through the chaos of addiction, relapse, and self-destruction. After 30 years of addiction, burned bridges, and countless setbacks, Benton reached a turning point—and what came next wasn’t just sobriety… it was transformation. From his powerful memoir WRONG SIDE OUT: MADNESS MISDIAGNOSED to his latest release The Stoic Alcoholic: It’s Not Only About Counting Days, Benton shares how Stoic principles, discipline, and radical self-responsibility became the foundation for rebuilding his life. This conversation goes deep. We talk about: The reality of multiple relapses and why they don’t define you The damage addiction leaves behind—and how to face it head-on Why counting days isn’t enough in recovery Applying Stoicism to real-life pain, struggle, and growth What it truly means to take control, find purpose, and choose a better path This episode isn’t polished. It’s not sugar-coated. It’s real. It’s honest. And it’s exactly what people need to hear. As Benton said himself: “It’s not just about quitting alcohol… it’s about taking control of your life.” If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or like you keep starting over—this one is for you.

    1h 6m
  5. The Stoic Alcoholic: It's not Only About Counting Days With Benton Savage.

    Jun 8

    The Stoic Alcoholic: It's not Only About Counting Days With Benton Savage.

    What if recovery wasn’t just about counting days… but about rebuilding your entire way of thinking? In this raw and unfiltered episode, I sit down with Benton Savage—author, entrepreneur, and a man who has lived through the chaos of addiction, relapse, and self-destruction. After 30 years of addiction, burned bridges, and countless setbacks, Benton reached a turning point—and what came next wasn’t just sobriety… it was transformation. From his powerful memoir WRONG SIDE OUT: MADNESS MISDIAGNOSED to his latest release The Stoic Alcoholic: It’s Not Only About Counting Days, Benton shares how Stoic principles, discipline, and radical self-responsibility became the foundation for rebuilding his life. This conversation goes deep. We talk about: The reality of multiple relapses and why they don’t define you The damage addiction leaves behind—and how to face it head-on Why counting days isn’t enough in recovery Applying Stoicism to real-life pain, struggle, and growth What it truly means to take control, find purpose, and choose a better path This episode isn’t polished. It’s not sugar-coated. It’s real. It’s honest. And it’s exactly what people need to hear. As Benton said himself: “It’s not just about quitting alcohol… it’s about taking control of your life.” If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or like you keep starting over—this one is for you. https://www.amazon.com/Wrong-Side-Out-Madness-Misdiagnosed/dp/1968059326/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2KAZMFE9MF3AF&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.HEZmllB9mEY0K8hVYjhWFZHKb4V2qCPIiCfEe7PStpqM36cnFbeuUfCm4ksiovFu87WQqVeokmEfNhWFPWahaYT42Jn_dX3ZAIj96XrVs3pLjNmMEWF9YUaIAAWeN34aKzmifNo6xRn_12jCVLllZgXMStziaPRc322o3lGnJBWx12gRApZJHbRVkfP2rySLFOnIRgRBUyhr8bqQt8JIs8BqplriBTZMM1PTMuY3Z-4.6NOeKLE3FLqagG1plofUzLLbAyk00gYFPEebeIlJPs0&dib_tag=se&keywords=wrong+side+out&qid=1780684799&s=books&sprefix=wrong+side+out%2Cstripbooks%2C216&sr=1-1 https://www.amazon.com/Stoic-Alcoholic-Only-About-Counting-ebook/dp/B0H1NKWM6Q/ref=sr_1_1?crid=F0PSXGRMVIMH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TzIgS0S896jZ7-mkvNMwn0bWTlZDgyObxNiF5XSwYj_-YMp_i0jplsyrAlvvNUipKYYTQubosG8-ZTceB94j-UrJhYzMihqkJX1rWlBRXvUMhxxfUL1250qE8iQ2MiAE1Vri5tiyd30VAhHlDa7HNJJpyo81bs3Vq1NKPcGp-Y1hhXMWM_DlqL-boIaesHqMJBbkBGGDcvYpD-jbGpMAiYE9yPvhMjGt264NQflftx4.jiH9i3yFX9a87QWIvrbm5xmxj1fmgzAS9yfH1HP8JNY&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+stoic+alcoholic&qid=1780684871&sprefix=the+stoic+al%2Caps%2C661&sr=8-1 https://www.amazon.com/Free-SATISFIED-Benton-Savage/dp/B0F5H46CLK/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2S0MN5BCCENZH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ZBQpw1oeguTTCyXL5Z6Mf6_GjrjX5moZ-aEqv17bH_RhKWHqVZYVMMmCx2sOHqLq-kCXzHEqz2uehCW72Wbr4b_jOmZig7j8DjJefbPjQnaZk-oYSAh3dNkZra2aVqD2Q4psCOQzFpoxoFClO_Vr0BbTXGKmaps38zvb1Yeb1t4s_V9n9fiZ_qrj4PqwnYB-LO5QMf-wR1-DW9ZofhatIcvIDO8emvAkGLPSPFGeDOk.1DKBa-vUkHa0foBidKXp2sdzkBSN9gLEq4ryLqW0RvE&dib_tag=se&keywords=free+and+satisfied&qid=1780685015&s=books&sprefix=free+and+satisfied%2Cstripbooks%2C2623&sr=1-1 https://www.amazon.com/Fortune-Cookies-sayings-navigate-challenges-ebook/dp/B0GLLLNJY5/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3W05GENL1NZ1S&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.4proDU_iUUDlV6fBdn7zAeR0z3e-qgJqGekrw-kTj2k.-O_VhhqpiR1j3YfatOfqGQsvHIQB8CigOe5xLhkb9u4&dib_tag=se&keywords=fortune+cookies+by+Benton+Savage&qid=1780685084&s=books&sprefix=fortune+cookies+by+benton+savage%2Cstripbooks%2C541&sr=1-1

    1h 6m

  6. Jun 5

    The Breath Box, The Magical Combination with Laura Anderson

    This episode was sponsored by EMERGO ACADEMY / emergoacademy.com Today’s episode, “The Breath Box, The Magical Combination,” was a powerful conversation with Laura Anderson, Manager of The Breath Box Studio. We explored a different kind of healing—one that goes beyond talking and reaches into the body, the nervous system, and the breath itself. Laura shared how The Breath Box creates a deeply immersive experience through a unique combination of breathing techniques, sound, tones, hertz, and frequencies designed to help people regulate the body, release emotional blocks, and reconnect with themselves in a profound way. We talked about the importance of understanding that the brain is not a Google search—it doesn’t instantly process pain, trauma, stress, or life’s hardest experiences. It needs time, space, and the right environment to slow down, feel safe, and heal. This episode highlights how intentional breathwork can support somatic healing, emotional clarity, inner peace, and a more grounded life. If you’ve been carrying stress, anxiety, guilt, trauma, or emotional heaviness, this conversation opens the door to a healing modality that is both powerful and deeply personal. Free Breath Box Online Community Event: April 17th @ 6pm CST "Stress & Anxiety" Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/99685419246?pwd=xlbuZCjz6x4RR93ZfWffsD31ZIcIYK.1 Laura Anderson Breath Box Studio Manager Laura@breathbox.studio -Just Put The Headphones On- (210) 560 0377

    1h 1m
  7. Digital Dependence With Eli Singer

    May 29

    Digital Dependence With Eli Singer

    This Episode was sponsored by EMERGO ACADEMY/emergoacademy.com “Digital Dependence” We live in a world where silence feels uncomfortable… where stillness feels foreign… and where reaching for our phones has become second nature. But today’s conversation challenges that. In this episode of The Other Side of Addiction, I sat down with Eli Singer, founder of Offline.now, to talk about something that doesn’t get labeled enough for what it really is… digital dependence. Not addiction in the traditional sense… but a constant need for stimulation, distraction, and escape. And here’s the truth— most people aren’t lacking discipline… They’re lacking confidence. Eli brings a refreshing, non-judgmental approach to digital wellness—one that doesn’t rely on extreme detoxes or unrealistic rules. Instead, he focuses on small, practical shifts that create real change in everyday moments: • The chaos of mornings • The tension around homework • The disconnect at dinner • The scroll before bed Because change doesn’t happen in extremes… it happens in the moments we usually overlook. We also went deeper—into the why.

    54 min
  8. You Can Do More From The Outside; Action Is Contagious With Susan Bond

    May 25

    You Can Do More From The Outside; Action Is Contagious With Susan Bond

    This episode is sponsored by EMERGO ACADEMY/emergoacademy.com Today’s episode is titled… “You Can Do More From The Outside; Action Is Contagious.” Have you ever realized… that sometimes the greatest impact you can make isn’t from the inside of something—but from the outside, simply by taking action? In this conversation, we go beyond surface-level faith and step into something deeper… something more personal. We talk about how love can grow in the smallest, most unexpected places… why God isn’t confined to a building on Sunday… and how your relationship with your Creator has nothing to do with religion—and everything to do with connection. Because let’s be honest… religion is man-made. Faith? That’s personal. That’s real. That’s between you and something greater. And my guest today, Susan Bond, brought a perspective that hit me hard. She said: “My role is simply to be the spark… to speak words that stir you to seek your significance and find your specific role.” That right there… that’s what this episode is about. Finding your role. Taking action. And realizing that when you move—others move too. Because action… is contagious. FaceYourStorm.org - Nonprofit resource hub for trauma recovery and rehabilitation. SaveBuildProtect.com - No cost financial benefits for employers, employees, and individuals. ActionIsContagious.com - Updates on Susan's Book: ACTION IS CONTAGIOUS - Why You're Here and What You're Supposed to Do About It. SusanBond.com - Learn more about Susan and connect with her personally.

    1h 5m
See All (126)

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

This is a podcast that focuses on addiction. It is an engaging and informative platform that explores various aspects of addiction, offering valuable insights, personal stories, expert interviews, and practical advice. Such a podcast seeks to raise awareness, foster understanding, and provide support for individuals struggling with addiction or those affected by it. The podcast may cover a wide range of addictive behaviors, including substance abuse, alcohol, gambling, sex, porn, gaming and more. It aims to shed light on the complexities and challenges faced by individuals dealing with addiction, while also addressing the impact on their relationships, mental health, and overall well-being. A podcast discussing addiction typically combines a compassionate and non-judgmental approach with evidence-based information and strategies. It may feature interviews with addiction specialists, psychologists, counselors, and individuals who have overcome addiction themselves. These discussions often touch upon the causes of addiction, physiological effects, treatment options, and the importance of support networks. The podcast may also delve into related topics like relapse prevention, coping mechanisms, harm reduction strategies, and the process of recovery. It can provide practical tips, resources, and techniques to manage cravings, develop healthy habits, and rebuild a fulfilling life after addiction. Listeners of an addiction-focused podcast can expect to gain a deeper understanding of addiction, dispel misconceptions, and discover valuable resources to support their own recovery or that of a loved one. The podcast serves as a source of inspiration, encouragement, and education, offering hope and a sense of community to those affected by addiction.

Information

  • Creator
    Al Richards
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    126
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Other Side of Addiction