The Addicted Mind Podcast

Duane Osterlind, LMFT
  • 4.7 (598)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it. We're here to do more than just talk about addiction. We want to show you how to heal and recover. Our talks with experts and people who have beaten addiction give you important insights into how addiction affects the mind and how recovery can happen in many ways. Whether we're looking at new treatment ideas or sharing stories that inspire, "The Addicted Mind Podcast" is all about understanding the complex world of addiction recovery and showing that recovery is possible. If you or someone you care about is dealing with the challenges of addiction, let "The Addicted Mind Podcast" be your friend and guide. We aim to give you the knowledge you need, share stories that inspire you, and show you that the journey to recovery is worth it. Subscribe now to be part of a community focused on learning, healing, and changing for the better. Your journey to a healthier mind and life begins right here.

  1. TAM+ EP 84 Riding the Wave: How to Survive Your Most Overwhelming Moments Without Making Them Worse

    2D AGO

    TAM+ EP 84 Riding the Wave: How to Survive Your Most Overwhelming Moments Without Making Them Worse

    Worksheet: Riding the Wave with TIPP Picture this: Your heart is pounding so hard you can hear it in your ears. Your vision starts to tunnel. A wave of pure panic or white-hot anger is washing over every nerve in your body, and all you can think about is doing something—anything—to make it stop. We've all been there. That moment where one decision could change everything. Maybe it's reaching for that drink, lashing out at someone you love, or spiraling into a shame cycle that feels impossible to escape. What if there was a way to survive these moments without making them worse? What if you could actually hack your own nervous system to ride out the storm? In this episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind break down TIPP—four powerful crisis survival skills from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) that can literally save your life in these overwhelming moments. These aren't feel-good techniques designed to make you happy. They're emergency tools designed to help you survive a crisis without acting on destructive urges. Each skill works by targeting your body's nervous system in a specific way, giving you concrete actions to take when your emotions feel completely out of control. From the mammalian dive reflex that instantly slows your racing heart, to the surprising power of 60-second intense exercise that burns off adrenaline, you'll learn exactly how to use your body's own wiring to calm yourself down. The brothers also dive into the science behind why longer exhales activate your "rest and digest" system, and how paired muscle relaxation can release stored tension in minutes. But here's the real power: every single time you choose these skills instead of your old destructive behaviors, you're rewiring your brain. You're proving to yourself that you can feel intense pain and survive it without escaping into substances or harmful actions. Whether you're in recovery from addiction, dealing with trauma, or just tired of making decisions in emotional moments that you later regret, these four simple techniques could be game-changers. The best part? You can start using them today. Don't miss the free worksheet download that breaks down each skill with step-by-step instructions you can use in your next crisis moment. Worksheet: Riding the Wave with TIPP Key Topics The TIPP Crisis Survival Method - Four science-backed techniques to survive overwhelming emotionsTemperature Technique - Using cold water and ice to activate your mammalian dive reflexIntense Exercise - How 60 seconds of movement burns off dangerous adrenaline surgesPaced Breathing - The nervous system hack that only requires controlling your lungsPaired Muscle Relaxation - Releasing stored tension through breath and muscle workBrain Rewiring Through Crisis Survival - How each successful use builds long-term resilienceDBT and Distress Tolerance - Understanding the therapy approach that created these toolsTimestamp Guide [00:01:00] - The Crisis Moment: What overwhelming emotions feel like and why we need survival skills [00:03:00] - Introduction to DBT: The therapy that balances acceptance and change for real results [00:05:00] - Distress Tolerance Explained: Why these skills survive crises instead of creating happiness [00:08:00] - Temperature Technique: Using cold water to activate your biological brake pedal [00:10:00] - Intense Exercise: How 60 seconds of movement matches and burns off emotional energy [00:12:00] - Paced Breathing: The only organ you can control that connects both nervous systems [00:16:00] - Long-term Brain Rewiring: How crisis survival skills build lasting recovery strength See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    19 min

  2. 5D AGO

    Episode 349: Wise Effort: Embracing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Dr. Diana Hill

    Join us for an enriching conversation with Dr. Diana Hill, a leading voice in the world of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as she shares insights from her latest book, "Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most". Dr. Hill leads us on her personal journey from cognitive behavioral therapy to ACT, offering a fresh perspective on how shifting our relationship with thoughts can bring profound change. This episode promises to redefine your understanding of mental well-being by highlighting ACT's focus on psychological flexibility and values-driven living. Dr. Hill artfully explores the fusion of scientific analysis and human compassion in therapeutic practices. She guides us through the complex realm of shame, an emotion deeply rooted in our evolutionary past, and explains how confronting it can pave the way for healing and deeper connections. Through this lens, we consider how integrating scientific principles with personal relevance can transform mental health treatment into a relatable, effective process. This conversation is a testament to how ACT can be a powerful tool for anyone seeking to harness both heart and science in their healing journey. In this episode, you will hear: Dr. Diana Hill on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and her book "Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most."ACT's focus on psychological flexibility and values-driven living, distinct from traditional cognitive behavioral therapy.Scientific rigor with compassion to address and transform shame in therapy.Aligning talents with core values for personal growth through "wise effort."The importance of releasing outdated narratives for creativity and development.Practical strategies and questions for purposeful energy and talent direction.Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Dr. Hill's Website Dr. Hill's Podcast Wise Effort Book NovusMindfulLife.com https://www.theaddictedmind.com/community  Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    38 min
  3. TAM+ EP 83 Unlocking the Impact of Childhood Trauma: The ACEs Study

    AUG 28

    TAM+ EP 83 Unlocking the Impact of Childhood Trauma: The ACEs Study

    Download: The Worksheet ACE In this episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, Duane and Eric Osterlind dive into the groundbreaking ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) study. This research revealed how childhood trauma significantly impacts mental, physical, and emotional health in adulthood. By exploring the origins, findings, and implications of the study, they discuss how early experiences of abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction shape our lives. The episode also provides practical steps for recognizing and addressing these traumas, offering hope and tools for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Join us to understand the profound connection between childhood experiences and adult well-being. Key Topics - Introduction to the ACEs study and its significance. - Types of adverse childhood experiences (abuse, neglect, household dysfunction). - The impact of ACEs on adult mental and physical health. - Recognizing hidden forms of trauma and their long-term effects. - Practical steps for healing from childhood trauma. Timestamps 1. [00:01:00] – Introduction and significance of the ACEs study. 2. [00:02:28] – History and inception of the ACEs study by Dr. Vincent Felitti. 3. [00:04:21] – Types of adverse childhood experiences. 4. [00:06:25] – Impact of ACEs on adult health and well-being. 5. [00:09:38] – Recognizing hidden forms of trauma. 6. [00:13:23] – Steps to address and heal from childhood trauma. 7. [00:17:11] – Summary and resources for further help. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    19 min

  4. AUG 25

    Episode 348: Transforming Addiction Recovery: Harnessing AI for Personal and Family Support with Brad Sorte

    Brad Sorte, co-founder of Sober Companion AI, shares his remarkable journey from battling addiction to harnessing the power of AI to transform recovery processes. With nearly two decades of experience under his belt, Brad provides insights into how AI is making addiction treatment more personal and accessible. By integrating compassionate care with advanced technology, AI is opening doors to treatment for more individuals and families, offering new hope and reshaping therapeutic interactions. Our conversation takes a closer look at AI's broader applications in family education and support services. With the rise of tools like ChatGPT, Brad envisions a world where conversational AI companions serve as 24-hour coaches for families, guiding them through challenges and helping manage boundaries and anxiety. These AI advancements strive to reconstruct family support structures, particularly in a post-COVID landscape, addressing the entire familial ecosystem to prevent generational issues and foster holistic healing. In this episode, you will hear: Exploration of AI's transformative role in addiction recovery, emphasizing personal and accessible treatmentInsights from Brad Sorte on integrating compassionate care with technology in mental health servicesAI's potential in democratizing family education and support, using conversational AI as 24-hour coachesEthical considerations and risks of forming dependencies on AI in mental health careUse of real-time data from mobile devices for early detection and intervention in addiction relapseFollow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: SCAI NovusMindfulLife.com https://www.theaddictedmind.com/community  Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    55 min
  5. TAM+ EP82 Putting Your Inner Critic on Trial: Rewiring Your Brain's Negative Voice

    AUG 21

    TAM+ EP82 Putting Your Inner Critic on Trial: Rewiring Your Brain's Negative Voice

    Download: Thought Challenge Worksheet What if the harshest critic you've ever known lives inside your own head? That relentless voice telling you you're not good enough, you'll never change, you always mess things up – it's been running the show for far too long. In this eye-opening episode, hosts Duane and Eric reveal how your inner critic has been acting as judge, jury, and executioner of your self-worth, especially during addiction and trauma recovery. But here's the game-changer: you don't have to be a victim of your own thoughts anymore. Using powerful techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), this episode teaches you how to become your own defense attorney. You'll learn to identify the sneaky cognitive distortions that fuel your inner critic – like all-or-nothing thinking, catastrophizing, and emotional reasoning – and discover a simple but life-changing method to challenge these automatic negative thoughts. This isn't about toxic positivity or pretending everything is fine. It's about finding truth, balance, and compassion in how you talk to yourself. Duane and Eric walk you through a practical thought-challenging exercise that you can use immediately when that critic gets loud. The hosts share real examples of how to transform thoughts like "I'm a complete failure" into more balanced perspectives that acknowledge your pain while opening doors to healing and growth. They explain why our feelings, though valid, aren't always accurate reflections of reality – and how emotional reasoning can trap us in cycles of shame and relapse. Every time you challenge a negative thought and find counter-evidence, you're literally rewiring your brain. You're building new neural pathways that are more balanced and resilient. Most importantly, you're shifting from being a passive victim of your thoughts to becoming an active participant in your emotional wellbeing. Ready to put your inner critic on trial? This episode gives you the tools to start today. Key Topics Cognitive distortions - identifying black-and-white thinking, catastrophizing, and emotional reasoning The CBT thought-challenging method - questioning evidence for and against negative thoughts Emotional reasoning trap - why feeling something doesn't make it factually true Creating balanced alternatives - reframing thoughts without toxic positivity Self-compassion techniques - asking "what would I tell a dear friend?" Neural pathway rewiring - how challenging thoughts physically changes your brain Practical worksheet tool - step-by-step guide for thought recordsTimestamps [00:01:00] - Meet your harshest critic (spoiler: it's you)  [00:03:00] - The pain of living under constant internal negativity  [00:06:00] - Introduction to cognitive restructuring and CBT techniques  [00:07:00] - Common cognitive distortions in addiction recovery  [00:10:00] - The thought-challenging courtroom method  [00:13:00] - Creating balanced alternative thoughts (real examples)  [00:16:00] - Free worksheet download and practical next steps See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    18 min

  6. AUG 18

    Episode 347: From Denial to Recovery: Melissa Fletcher Stoeltje's Journey Through High-Functioning Alcoholism and Healing

    Melissa Fletcher Stoeltje’s story is one that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced the hidden struggles of addiction. Imagine maintaining a successful career while secretly battling high-functioning alcoholism. Melissa opens up about her journey from denial to recovery, sharing the pivotal moments that led her to seek help. Her memoir, "Drunk Love: A Marriage Under the Influence," serves as a testament to the resilience required to overcome such a gripping hold on life. Her candid reflections offer a beacon of hope for those facing similar battles or supporting loved ones on their path to sobriety. Navigating a marriage entangled in the web of alcoholism presents its own set of challenges. Melissa and her husband share their experience of confronting the underlying issues masked by alcohol. Through therapy and recovery programs, they learned to rebuild their relationship, finding healthier ways to communicate and support each other. This episode explores themes of personal well-being, the importance of choosing the right therapeutic support, and the powerful transformation that sobriety can bring to personal and familial dynamics. Rediscovering one's identity and passions, such as Melissa's love for writing, are highlighted as key elements in the journey to recovery. In this episode, you will hear: Melissa Fletcher Stoeltje's battle with high-functioning alcoholism and the role of denial.The impact of alcoholism on Melissa's marriage and the journey to recovery and healing.Rediscovering personal identity and passions through sobriety, with a focus on Melissa's love for writing.The significance of choosing the right therapeutic support and the potential necessity of ending unhealthy relationships.Embracing radical honesty in recovery and the surprising support from colleagues.The transformative power of community and fellowship in overcoming addiction.Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Drunk Love: A Marriage under the Influence Sobertown Interview NovusMindfulLife.com https://www.theaddictedmind.com/community  Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    39 min
  7. TAM+ EP 81 ANTs in Your Brain: The Secret to Breaking Free From Negative Thinking

    AUG 14

    TAM+ EP 81 ANTs in Your Brain: The Secret to Breaking Free From Negative Thinking

    Download: The ANT Catcher Worksheet Have you ever felt like your mind was invaded by a constant stream of tiny, negative whispers? Like there's an army of ants crawling through your head, each one carrying a toxic message that you're not good enough, you can't handle it, or you're going to fail? In this powerful episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric reveal the hidden enemy that might be sabotaging your recovery without you even knowing it. They introduce you to ANTs – Automatic Negative Thoughts – those lightning-fast, barely noticeable thoughts that create a vicious cycle of pain, triggers, and destructive behaviors. Drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), one of the most research-backed therapeutic approaches available, the hosts break down the critical connection between your thoughts, feelings, and actions. They explain how changing just one corner of this triangle can transform your entire emotional experience. But here's the game-changer: most of us try to change our behaviors through pure willpower, completely missing the thoughts that are actually driving the whole cycle. These automatic thoughts happen so fast they're almost subconscious, yet they have the power to hijack your entire day – and your recovery. Duane and Eric don't just identify the problem; they give you practical tools to fight back. They introduce the concept of "metacognition" – thinking about your thinking – and show you how to become a scientist of your own mind. By learning to spot these mental ants, you create psychological distance from them and stop seeing them as the absolute truth. The episode includes a 24-hour mission designed to help you become an "ant hunter," complete with specific steps for catching and labeling these thoughts without judgment. You'll learn why physically writing down these thoughts is so powerful and how this simple practice can be the foundation for lasting change. Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or just tired of being controlled by negative self-talk, this episode offers hope and practical strategies. The hosts provide a free worksheet to help you track your progress and emphasize the importance of being gentle with yourself as you discover these hidden patterns. This isn't about positive thinking or willpower – it's about awareness, understanding, and gradually taking back control of your mental landscape one thought at a time. Key Topics • ANTs Explained: What automatic negative thoughts are and how they operate below conscious awareness  • The CBT Triangle: How thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and influence each other  • Metacognition Techniques: Learning to observe your thoughts rather than being controlled by them  • The Ant Spotting Exercise: Practical 24-hour mission to catch and label negative thoughts  • Why Willpower Fails: Understanding why behavior change without addressing thoughts doesn't work  • Writing vs. Thinking: The power of physically recording your thoughts for lasting change  • Self-Compassion in Recovery: Being gentle with yourself while developing awareness Key Timestamps • [00:01:00] - Introduction to the "mental infestation" concept and ANTs metaphor • [00:03:00] - Real examples of how automatic negative thoughts trigger destructive behaviors • [00:06:00] - Introduction to CBT and the thoughts-feelings-behaviors triangle • [00:07:00] - Dr. Aaron Beck's research and the science behind automatic negative thoughts • [00:09:00] - The concept of "defusion" - separating yourself from your thoughts • [00:12:00] - The 24-hour ANT spotting mission explained step-by-step • [00:14:00] - Practical tips for tracking thoughts and the importance of writing them down See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    16 min

  8. AUG 11

    Episode 346: Revolutionizing Addiction Treatment: Insights from 'Mother of Methadone' with Dr. Melody Glenn

    Melody Glenn, an addiction and emergency medicine physician with a flair for creative writing, joins Duane to share insights from her upcoming book, "Mother of Methadone: A Doctor's Quest, a Forgotten History, and a Modern Day Crisis." Together, they unpack the legacy of Dr. Marie Nyswander, a trailblazer in methadone maintenance who reshaped addiction treatment. Dr. Glenn offers a candid perspective on her own journey in addiction medicine, revealing the transformative power of medications like methadone and buprenorphine. Despite their proven effectiveness, these treatments are met with skepticism, reflecting the broader challenge of integrating addiction medicine into mainstream healthcare. Our discussion takes a deep dive into the multifaceted nature of addiction, beyond mere physical dependence. We explore how methadone and buprenorphine provide a lifeline for individuals, helping them reclaim stability and repair relationships. The conversation also challenges the stigma of addiction, advocating for harm reduction strategies that prioritize individual empowerment over punitive measures. By recognizing people as experts of their own lives, we highlight the inefficacy of traditional abstinence-only models and underscore the importance of supportive systems for recovery. Dr. Glenn's insights serve as a powerful reminder of the need for compassionate, informed approaches in tackling substance use disorders. In this episode, you will hear: Dr. Melody Glenn previews her book, "Mother of Methadone," on Dr. Marie Nyswander's methadone work.Examining methadone and buprenorphine's impact on opioid disorder despite skepticism and stigma.Advocating for harm reduction over abstinence-only models, focusing on patient empowerment.Recognition of addiction as a treatable condition to combat stigma.Trauma's role in addiction and the need for supportive recovery systems.Barriers in addiction medicine, pushing for compassionate healthcare integration. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Article Dr. Melody Glenn https://www.drmelodyglenn.com/ NovusMindfulLife.com https://www.theaddictedmind.com/community  Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    38 min
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Hosts & Guests

4.7
out of 5
598 Ratings

About

"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it. We're here to do more than just talk about addiction. We want to show you how to heal and recover. Our talks with experts and people who have beaten addiction give you important insights into how addiction affects the mind and how recovery can happen in many ways. Whether we're looking at new treatment ideas or sharing stories that inspire, "The Addicted Mind Podcast" is all about understanding the complex world of addiction recovery and showing that recovery is possible. If you or someone you care about is dealing with the challenges of addiction, let "The Addicted Mind Podcast" be your friend and guide. We aim to give you the knowledge you need, share stories that inspire you, and show you that the journey to recovery is worth it. Subscribe now to be part of a community focused on learning, healing, and changing for the better. Your journey to a healthier mind and life begins right here.

Information

  • Creator
    Duane Osterlind, LMFT
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    441
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved. Copyright 2024
  • Show Website
    The Addicted Mind Podcast

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