Circle of Chairs with Caroline Beidler

Caroline Beidler, MSW
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

An addiction recovery and mental health podcast.

  1. 4D AGO

    Circle of Chairs with Toni Collier

    In this Circle of Chairs conversation, I interview speaker, author, and podcaster Toni Collier about recovery, trauma, and the kind of community that helps people heal. Toni shares her “buckets” of work - traveling to speak on healing and redemption, writing books including Brave Enough to Be Broken and her new book Don’t Try This Alone, hosting the Still Coloring podcast, and raising her kids as a single mom. She explains that sharing hard truths came from recovering from people-pleasing and focusing on pleasing God rather than others’ opinions. Toni describes a confessional community she built before crisis hit and then the incredible response from her friends.  We discuss breaking cycles of seeking worth through men, learning to sit with pain, and “with-ness” through being seen, soothed, safe, and secure, plus a practical exercise to help you get started with forming your own deep community. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 00:56 Tony in Buckets 02:50 From Struggle to Vulnerability 06:01 Community and New Book 06:53 Divorce and Confessional Community 11:02 Breaking the Love Lie 16:00 Learning to Sit in Pain 18:37 Withness and Four S's 23:14 Practical Steps to Build Circles 26:04 Closing Thanks Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and Managing Editor of Recovery.com, where she combines expert guidance with research to help people find the best path to healing and treatment. Her next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide for Understanding Addiction, is coming Spring 2026 with Nelson Books. Drawing from her own recovery journey through addiction, mental health challenges, and trauma, along with training as a clinical mental health provider and addiction recovery expert, Caroline is passionate about guiding you into seasons of greater healing. Learn more about her books here. Subscribe to her Circle of Chairs Substack community at carolinebeidler.substack.com

    27 min

  2. FEB 24

    Circle of Chairs with Caroline Beidler: Myths About Addiction Recovery

    What if some of the things you’ve believed about addiction recovery—about love, relapse, boundaries, even faith—aren’t fully true? In this episode, I gently challenge 10 common myths that quietly shape how we show up for the people we love. If you’ve ever wondered… Am I enabling?Is relapse proof they’re not trying?Shouldn’t my faith make this easier?Why does loving them feel so exhausting?This conversation is for you. We’ll unpack what’s really happening beneath addiction, why recovery is rarely a straight line, and how love and boundaries can coexist without guilt. Most of all, we’ll talk about your healing—because recovery doesn’t just impact one person. If you’ve been walking on eggshells, afraid of saying the wrong thing, I hope this episode brings clarity, courage, and grounded hope. Time Stamps 00:00 Top 10 Addiction Recovery Myths (Intro & Overview) 01:01 Myth #1: “Loving Them Is Enabling” — Love + Boundaries 03:39 Myth #2: “Addiction Is a Choice” — What’s Happening in the Brain 07:16 Myth #3: “Talking About Drugs Makes Them Use” — Why Conversation Protects 09:18 Myth #4: “Relapse Means They’re Not Serious” — Recurrence & the Recovery Journey 14:40 Myth #5: “Boundaries Are Mean” — Why Boundaries Are Brave 15:46 Myth #6: “My Healing Doesn’t Matter” — Family Recovery Starts With You 16:56 Myth #7: “I’m the Only One” — Finding Community 18:05 Myth #8: “If I Have Faith, I Shouldn’t Struggle” — Holding Faith and Pain 19:20 Myth #9: “Mental Health Talk Is Weak” — Strength in Asking for Help 20:17 Myth #10: “They Just Need to Stop” — Getting to the Root Wrap-Up: Truth, Hope & Final Encouragement Pre-order the book When You Love Someone In Recovery:  https://whenyoulovesomeoneinrecovery.com/ Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and Managing Editor of Recovery.com, where she combines expert guidance with research to help people find the best path to healing and treatment. Her next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide for Understanding Addiction, is coming Spring 2026 with Nelson Books. Drawing from her own recovery journey through addiction, mental health challenges, and trauma, along with training as a clinical mental health provider and addiction recovery expert, Caroline is passionate about guiding you into seasons of greater healing. Learn more about her books here. Subscribe to her Circle of Chairs Substack community at carolinebeidler.substack.com

    24 min
  3. Circle of Chairs with Brandon Burley

    FEB 17

    Circle of Chairs with Brandon Burley

    In this episode of Circle of Chairs, I sit down with Brandon Burley, Marine Corps veteran, former law enforcement officer, educator, and the founder of the Redemption Project - for a deeply hopeful conversation about addiction, incarceration, and what it really takes to help people rebuild their lives.  Brandon shares how his career in narcotics exposed him to the revolving door of recidivism: the same people cycling through the system, wanting treatment but facing barriers like lack of beds, insurance, and support. He talks honestly about the stigma that exists not only toward people who’ve been incarcerated or struggled with addiction, but even within law enforcement itself—and why enforcement alone can’t create safer communities without real rehabilitation on the back end.  We explore how recovery is both a public health and public safety strategy, and why community and belonging are often the missing pieces.   If you care about recovery, reentry, or what it looks like to become the kind of community that helps people truly come home, this conversation will leave you thinking—and hoping.  You can find Brandon at TheRedemptionProject.news (plus his podcast and Substack), and connect in his Facebook community, The Redemption Group.  00:14 Meet Brandon Burley: Marine, Law Enforcement & the Redemption Project 02:20 Breaking the Silos: Collaboration, Stigma & Compassionate Policing 06:04 Why Recidivism Happens: What Brandon Saw in Narcotics Work 09:41 Recovery as Public Safety: Community as the Missing Pillar 14:05 The First 30 Days After Release: IDs, Medication & Reentry Barriers 18:29 What’s Working Now: Redemption Project, Veterans Advocacy & Men of Valor 22:18 How to Connect + Final Thoughts For more resources, visit carolinebeidler.com. Pre-order the book: When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide for Understanding Addiction. Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and Managing Editor of Recovery.com, where she combines expert guidance with research to help people find the best path to healing and treatment. Her next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide for Understanding Addiction, is coming Spring 2026 with Nelson Books. Drawing from her own recovery journey through addiction, mental health challenges, and trauma, along with training as a clinical mental health provider and addiction recovery expert, Caroline is passionate about guiding you into seasons of greater healing. Learn more about her books here. Subscribe to her Circle of Chairs Substack community at carolinebeidler.substack.com

    27 min
  4. Circle of Chairs with Diana Dalles

    FEB 3

    Circle of Chairs with Diana Dalles

    In this episode of Circle of Chairs, I am deeply honored to have my mom, Diana Dalles, as a special guest. Together, we candidly discuss the profound impact addiction and recovery have had on our family, sharing personal experiences and the journey toward healing and hope. We touch on the challenges we faced, from the lack of resources in the early 2000s to the isolation my mom felt, and the transformation that occurred through community support. We reflect on how showing up with love and hope can make a monumental difference for those struggling. Diana offers invaluable advice for family members feeling alone, emphasizing the importance of seeking support and resources available today. We also recount cherished memories and the enduring bond that has flourished despite the trials of addiction. This episode is a testament to the power of love, community, and unwavering hope in the face of addiction. Thank you for listening. 00:00 Introduction to Circle of Chairs 00:14 Meet My Mom, Diana Dallas 00:48 Humor and Light Moments 02:07 A Mother's Perspective on Addiction 04:43 Challenges and Changes in Recovery 09:06 The Importance of Support and Community 20:43 Reflections and Memories 23:08 Conclusion and Resources Diana Dalles LPN, MSW has been writing poetry and journaling since her teenage years, mainly for her own enjoyment and healing. She spent the early years of her career in the nursing field, then worked thirty-five years as a professional social worker. Her employment interests included hospice, medical social work, and gerontology. She has facilitated grief, trauma, and women’s empowerment groups. Diana retired in 2015, and being with her family brings her the greatest joy. Diana lives with her cat in East Tennessee. Pre-order a copy of my new book releasing April 2026:  When You Love Someone in Recovery https://whenyoulovesomeoneinrecovery.com/  Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and Managing Editor of Recovery.com, where she combines expert guidance with research to help people find the best path to healing and treatment. Her next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide for Understanding Addiction, is coming Spring 2026 with Nelson Books. Drawing from her own recovery journey through addiction, mental health challenges, and trauma, along with training as a clinical mental health provider and addiction recovery expert, Caroline is passionate about guiding you into seasons of greater healing. Learn more about her books here. Subscribe to her Circle of Chairs Substack community at carolinebeidler.substack.com

    24 min

  5. JAN 27

    Circle of Chairs with Meghann Perry

    In this episode, I discuss with Megan Perry the concept of harm reduction, a set of principles and practices that prioritize people's autonomy and dignity in substance use. Megan shares how harm reduction goes beyond just providing safe equipment and overdose prevention, emphasizing the importance of loving and supporting individuals regardless of their substance use choices. We also explore the often antagonistic divide between harm reduction and abstinence-based recovery, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and compassionate approach. Megan encourages us to reflect on our own experiences, educate ourselves on harm reduction, and support each other without stigma.  For more resources and to pre-order my new book, When You Love Someone In Recovery: A Hopeful Guide to Understanding Addiction, visit whenyoulovesomeoneinrecovery.com. 00:00 Introduction to Circle of Chairs 00:14 Caroline's New Book Announcement 00:35 Meet Megan Perry 02:04 Understanding Harm Reduction 07:16 Challenges in Recovery Advocacy 14:16 The Importance of Language in Recovery 20:37 Practical Steps for Harm Reduction 25:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts You can learn more about Meghann’s work, speaking, and performances at meghannperry.com Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and Managing Editor of Recovery.com, where she combines expert guidance with research to help people find the best path to healing and treatment. Her next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide for Understanding Addiction, is coming Spring 2026 with Nelson Books. Drawing from her own recovery journey through addiction, mental health challenges, and trauma, along with training as a clinical mental health provider and addiction recovery expert, Caroline is passionate about guiding you into seasons of greater healing. Learn more about her books here. Subscribe to her Circle of Chairs Substack community at carolinebeidler.substack.com

    27 min

  6. JAN 20

    Circle of Chairs with Will Parker Anderson

    In this episode of Circle of Chairs, I have an inspiring conversation with Will Parker Anderson, a book editor at Penguin Random House Christian and founder of the Writer's Circle podcast and newsletter. We discuss how writing can be seen as a form of worship and a means to connect with God, especially for those in recovery. Will unpacks the powerful role of writing in processing thoughts and emotions, as well as the importance of receiving and giving feedback with grace. He also shares personal stories that highlight the transformative power of words, regardless of publication. For anyone feeling unqualified or rejected in their writing journey, Will's insights will provide encouragement and a fresh perspective. 00:00 Introduction to Circle of Chairs 00:13 Meet Will Parker Anderson 01:04 Will's Journey as a Book Editor 01:36 The Writer's Circle and Writing as Worship 03:30 The Spirituality of Writing 07:41 The Role of Editing in Writing 14:22 Advice for Aspiring Writers 21:34 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans Connect with Will at: https://www.writerscircle.co/ Sign up for Caroline Beidler's Circle of Chairs Substack: https://carolinebeidler.substack.com/ Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and Managing Editor of Recovery.com, where she combines expert guidance with research to help people find the best path to healing and treatment. Her next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide for Understanding Addiction, is coming Spring 2026 with Nelson Books. Drawing from her own recovery journey through addiction, mental health challenges, and trauma, along with training as a clinical mental health provider and addiction recovery expert, Caroline is passionate about guiding you into seasons of greater healing. Learn more about her books here. Subscribe to her Circle of Chairs Substack community at carolinebeidler.substack.com

    24 min

  7. JAN 13

    Circle of Chairs with Kelsey Gearhart

    Join me in an inspiring conversation with Kelsey Gerhardt on Circle of Chairs, focusing on addiction, mental health, healing, and hope. Kelsey, a woman in recovery for nearly 12 years, shares her remarkable journey from early addiction and multiple treatments to becoming a sober living advocate and opening her women's home, Heart Recovery, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We discuss the importance of aftercare, the unique challenges of women's recovery, and the profound impact of finding supportive, healing communities. Kelsey's story underscores the power of vulnerability, mentorship, and personal growth in the path to sustained sobriety. 00:00 Introduction to Circle of Chairs 00:14 Meet Kelsey Gearhart: A Journey in Recovery 02:25 Kelsey's Early Struggles and Turning Point 06:42 Building Heart Recovery: Vision to Reality 09:33 Living and Leading in Recovery 17:19 Future Plans and Final Thoughts Learn more about Kelsey’s work and Heart Recovery at hartrecovery.org. Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and Managing Editor of Recovery.com, where she combines expert guidance with research to help people find the best path to healing and treatment. Her next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide for Understanding Addiction, is coming Spring 2026 with Nelson Books. Drawing from her own recovery journey through addiction, mental health challenges, and trauma, along with training as a clinical mental health provider and addiction recovery expert, Caroline is passionate about guiding you into seasons of greater healing. Learn more about her books here. Subscribe to her Circle of Chairs Substack community at carolinebeidler.substack.com

    22 min
  8. Circle of Chairs with Ericka Anderson

    JAN 6

    Circle of Chairs with Ericka Anderson

    Ericka’s story will resonate with anyone who has ever juggled motherhood, work, faith, and the expectation to “hold it all together.” She talks about the quiet cycle of making promises to herself she couldn’t keep. The fear of telling anyone in her church community what was really happening. And the way alcohol noise often drowned out the very voice she wanted to hear most. She also names something so many feel but rarely articulate: that subtle invisibility of women who struggle at home, in the quiet, without anyone noticing until the burden becomes unbearable. A few threads we explore in this episode: • What it means to recover out loud as a Christian woman • The rising yet hidden crisis of alcohol use among women • The cultural narrative that mothers “need” wine • The gentler first steps toward change that don’t rely on self punishment • How faith, curiosity, and small shifts helped her turn toward freedom Ericka offers a simple encouragement for the woman listening who feels stuck: start by increasing what is good. More connection. More Scripture. More honest conversations. More space for God’s voice to rise above the static. No ultimatums. No perfect timeline. If you’ve ever wondered whether life might feel lighter without the nightly glass that keeps getting heavier, this episode will meet you with compassion and clarity. You can find more of Ericka’s work at erickaandersen.com and freelysober.com. Let’s keep pulling up more chairs. 💬 Have a story to share or know someone doing meaningful work in addiction recovery or mental health? Reply or reach out. This community grows because of you. Email hello@carolinebeidler.com * Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and Managing Editor of Recovery.com, where she combines expert guidance with research to help people find the best path to healing and treatment. Her next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide to Understanding Addiction, is coming Spring 2026 with Nelson Books. Drawing from her own recovery journey through addiction, mental health challenges, and trauma, along with training as a clinical mental health provider and addiction recovery expert, Caroline is passionate about guiding you into seasons of greater healing. Learn more about her books here. Caroline Beidler, MSW, is an author, speaker, and Managing Editor of Recovery.com, where she combines expert guidance with research to help people find the best path to healing and treatment. Her next book, When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide for Understanding Addiction, is coming Spring 2026 with Nelson Books. Drawing from her own recovery journey through addiction, mental health challenges, and trauma, along with training as a clinical mental health provider and addiction recovery expert, Caroline is passionate about guiding you into seasons of greater healing. Learn more about her books here. Subscribe to her Circle of Chairs Substack community at carolinebeidler.substack.com

    23 min
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An addiction recovery and mental health podcast.

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