Episode 140: The US of AA, Rethinking Addiction One Step at a Time

In this long-awaited episode of RMA, we give our take on Joe Miller's 2017 book, US of AA: How the Twelve Steps Hijacked the Science of Alcoholism. We discuss AA’s influence on addiction treatment and its implications for health policy, exploring the complex interplay between science, policy, and substance use treatment in America. Plus, we take a closer look at why drug deaths are on the decline. And finally—would a bigger calorie label make you cut back on beer? Let’s talk!

*This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.*

Please remember to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite platform to get the latest episode delivered right to your devices as soon as it’s released.

LINKS:

Recovery in the News

Calorie Labels on Beer

www.soberliningsplaybook.com

We are a listener-supported podcast. If you like what we’re doing here at RMA and want to support the show, JOIN THE RECOVERY IN THE MIDDLE AGES PATREON

Our sole mission is to help other people achieve sobriety and become their best, most authentic selves. As little as $3 a month makes a big difference and helps us keep the lights on.

https://www.patreon.com/RecoveryintheMiddleAges

Visit www.soberlink.com/middle-ages to sign up and receive $50 off your device.

As always, we thank you for your support.

RMA ON YOUTUBE

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Facebook Page

We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It’s a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there.

PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you’re enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.

Email:

MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com

Natx@middleagesrecovery.com

We all have a story. Tell us yours and we’ll share it on the show!

E-Mail your story to miker@middleagesrecovery.com

If you’re in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step, (but maybe not the last step), on your road to recovery.

https://www.aa.org/

https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/

Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):

This Naked Mind

Episode 139: Hillbilly Elegy-Rust Belt Realities and the Opioid Odyssey

Hey everyone! Remember us? Our last episode may have dropped on May 21st, but we promise we haven't been lost in the Middle Ages. We've been busy jesters, juggling our balls and brewing up some epic content! We're thrilled to be back. Thanks for sticking with us.

In this first episode of season 5, we take a wild ride through J.D. Vance's 2016 memoir "Hillbilly Elegy," exploring the ups and downs of life in Appalachian Ohio during the opioid crisis. We'll chat about Vance's rollercoaster family saga, the unexpected fame of his book, and the tug-of-war between blaming the system and taking personal responsibility.

*This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.*

Please remember to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite platform to get the latest episode delivered right to your devices as soon as it’s released.

LINKS:

Recovery in the News

www.soberliningsplaybook.com

We are a listener-supported podcast. If you like what we’re doing here at RMA and want to support the show, JOIN THE RECOVERY IN THE MIDDLE AGES PATREON

Our sole mission is to help other people achieve sobriety and become their best, most authentic selves. As little as $3 a month makes a big difference and helps us keep the lights on.

https://www.patreon.com/RecoveryintheMiddleAges

Visit www.soberlink.com/middle-ages to sign up and receive $50 off your device.

As always, we thank you for your support.

RMA ON YOUTUBE

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Facebook Page

We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It’s a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there.

PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you’re enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.

Email:

MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com

Natx@middleagesrecovery.com

We all have a story. Tell us yours and we’ll share it on the show!

E-Mail your story to miker@middleagesrecovery.com

If you’re in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step, (but maybe not the last step), on your road to recovery.

https://www.aa.org/

https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/

Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):

This Naked Mind

Peeling Back Labels: Redefining Identity and Stigma in Recovery and Mental Health

On this week’s show we take a look at the complex interplay between labeling, identity, and stigma in addiction recovery. This episode, inspired by a critical look at mental health interventions for teenagers, examines similar issues within substance abuse treatment. We discuss how stigma and the labeling of individuals as "addicts" can hinder recovery efforts, drawing parallels to broader mental health strategies that may unintentionally exacerbate the problems they aim to solve. Tune in to uncover how moving beyond simplistic labels can lead to more effective and compassionate approaches to recovery.

*This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.*

Please remember to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite platform to get the latest episode delivered right to your devices as soon as it’s released.

LINKS:

Recovery in the News

This is Not The Way To Help Depressed Teenagers

www.soberliningsplaybook.com

John The Can Man GoFundMe

We are a listener-supported podcast. If you like what we’re doing here at RMA and want to support the show, JOIN THE RECOVERY IN THE MIDDLE AGES PATREON

Our sole mission is to help other people achieve sobriety and become their best, most authentic selves. As little as $3 a month makes a big difference and helps us keep the lights on.

https://www.patreon.com/RecoveryintheMiddleAges

Visit www.soberlink.com/middle-ages to sign up and receive $50 off your device.

As always, we thank you for your support.

RMA ON YOUTUBE

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Facebook Page

We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It’s a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there.

PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you’re enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.

Email:

MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com

Natx@middleagesrecovery.com

We all have a story. Tell us yours and we’ll share it on the show!

E-Mail your story to miker@middleagesrecovery.com

If you’re in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step, (but maybe not the last step), on your road to recovery.

https://www.aa.org/

https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/

Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):

This Naked Mind

High Time for Change: Cannabis Rescheduling and Its Impact on Recovery

In this episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, we explore a significant shift in cannabis legislation, focusing on the historical journey of cannabis from a Schedule I to a proposed Schedule III substance. We explore the reasons behind this reclassification, the evolving perceptions of cannabis in society, and the science that influenced these legal changes. Additionally, we examine the implications of this rescheduling for individuals in recovery, discussing how it affects treatment options and public attitudes towards addiction and recovery.

We also look at some quirks in New York law that pertain to the selling of non-alcoholic beverages, and talk about obesity, stress and managing boredom.

*This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.*

Please remember to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite platform to get the latest episode delivered right to your devices as soon as it’s released.

LINKS:

McSorley’s Urinals

DEA Moves to Reschedule Pot

Won’t Somebody Think of the Liquor Stores?

www.soberliningsplaybook.com

John The Can Man GoFundMe

We are a listener-supported podcast. If you like what we’re doing here at RMA and want to support the show, JOIN THE RECOVERY IN THE MIDDLE AGES PATREON

Our sole mission is to help other people achieve sobriety and become their best, most authentic selves. As little as $3 a month makes a big difference and helps us keep the lights on.

https://www.patreon.com/RecoveryintheMiddleAges

Visit www.soberlink.com/middle-ages to sign up and receive $50 off your device.

As always, we thank you for your support.

RMA ON YOUTUBE

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Facebook Page

We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It’s a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there.

PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you’re enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.

Email:

MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com

Natx@middleagesrecovery.com

Check out the website:

www.middleagesrecovery.com

We all have a story. Tell us yours and we’ll share it on the show!

E-Mail your story to miker@middleagesrecovery.com

If you’re in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step, (but maybe not the last step), on your road to recovery.

https://www.aa.org/

https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/

Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):

This Naked Mind

RMA 136: Reel Recovery: Critiquing 'Intervention' and Exploring Addiction Genetics"

In this week’s episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, we delve into the widely popular TV show 'Intervention.' We'll discuss both the praise and criticism it has received over the years, exploring how it portrays addiction and the recovery process. Does the show offer a realistic view of addiction, or does it sensationalize personal tragedies for entertainment? Then we shift gears to a discussion about the genetic basis of addiction. What role do genes play in addictive behaviors, and how can this knowledge empower individuals in their recovery journey?

Plus: What the heck have Mike and Nat been up to lately?

*This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.*

Please remember to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite platform to get the latest episode delivered right to your devices as soon as it’s released.

LINKS:

Florida GOP Rep Trashes Hotel Room

www.soberliningsplaybook.com

John The Can Man GoFundMe

We are a listener-supported podcast. If you like what we’re doing here at RMA and want to support the show, JOIN THE RECOVERY IN THE MIDDLE AGES PATREON

Our sole mission is to help other people achieve sobriety and become their best, most authentic selves. As little as $3 a month makes a big difference and helps us keep the lights on.

https://www.patreon.com/RecoveryintheMiddleAges

Visit www.soberlink.com/middle-ages to sign up and receive $50 off your device.

As always, we thank you for your support.

RMA ON YOUTUBE

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Facebook Page

We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It’s a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there.

PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you’re enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.

Email:

MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com

Natx@middleagesrecovery.com

Check out the website:

www.middleagesrecovery.com

We all have a story. Tell us yours and we’ll share it on the show!

E-Mail your story to miker@middleagesrecovery.com

If you’re in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step, (but maybe not the last step), on your road to recovery.

https://www.aa.org/

https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/

Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):

This Naked Mind

Episode 135: Calm and Connected: Navigating Sobriety in Turbulent Times

In this episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, we wrestle with the critical topics of stress management and the dangers of isolation in sobriety. We explore practical strategies for maintaining emotional and mental balance through stress-busting techniques tailored for those in recovery. We also discuss the often overlooked risk of isolation—even when surrounded by others—and how shrinking your social world can jeopardize sobriety.

Plus: What the heck have Mike and Nat been up to lately?

ALSO: What is Contingency Management and how can it be incorporated into addiction treatment?

*This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.*

Please remember to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite platform to get the latest episode delivered right to your devices as soon as it’s released.

LINKS:

Contingency Management

House of Marley Turntables

www.soberliningsplaybook.com

John The Can Man GoFundMe

We are a listener-supported podcast. If you like what we’re doing here at RMA and want to support the show, JOIN THE RECOVERY IN THE MIDDLE AGES PATREON

Our sole mission is to help other people achieve sobriety and become their best, most authentic selves. As little as $3 a month makes a big difference and helps us keep the lights on.

https://www.patreon.com/RecoveryintheMiddleAges

Visit www.soberlink.com/middle-ages to sign up and receive $50 off your device.

As always, we thank you for your support.

RMA ON YOUTUBE

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Facebook Page

We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It’s a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there.

PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you’re enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.

Email:

MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com

Natx@middleagesrecovery.com

Check out the website:

www.middleagesrecovery.com

We all have a story. Tell us yours and we’ll share it on the show!

E-Mail your story to miker@middleagesrecovery.com

If you’re in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step, (but maybe not the last step), on your road to recovery.

https://www.aa.org/

https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/

Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):

This Naked Mind

Semiglutides in Sobriety: A New Frontier in Addiction Recovery?

In this week’s episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, we delve into the groundbreaking realm of semiglutide medications, such as Ozempic, and their emerging role in addiction treatment. As science advances, so does our understanding of how these drugs not only aid in weight loss, but also show promise in the realm of addiction recovery. We'll explore the current scientific insights on semiglutides' effects on the brain and body, specifically their potential to alter the brain's reward pathways and reduce the dopamine-driven pleasure associated with addictive behaviors.

We also discuss Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) more broadly, navigating the complexities and controversies surrounding MAT in the recovery community, touching on the balance between medication use and traditional recovery methods.

*This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.*

Please remember to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite platform to get the latest episode delivered right to your devices as soon as it’s released.

LINKS:

Fostering Pets in Recovery

Fostering For Recovery Facebook

Ozempic and Addiction

www.soberliningsplaybook.com

John The Can Man GoFundMe

We are a listener-supported podcast. If you like what we’re doing here at RMA and want to support the show, JOIN THE RECOVERY IN THE MIDDLE AGES PATREON

Our sole mission is to help other people achieve sobriety and become their best, most authentic selves. As little as $3 a month makes a big difference and helps us keep the lights on.

https://www.patreon.com/RecoveryintheMiddleAges

Visit www.soberlink.com/middle-ages to sign up and receive $50 off your device.

As always, we thank you for your support.

RMA ON YOUTUBE

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Facebook Page

We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It’s a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there.

PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you’re enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.

Email:

MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com

Natx@middleagesrecovery.com

Check out the website:

www.middleagesrecovery.com

We all have a story. Tell us yours and we’ll share it on the show!

E-Mail your story to miker@middleagesrecovery.com

If you’re in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step, (but maybe not the last step), on your road to recovery.

https://www.aa.org/

https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/

Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):

This Naked Mind