Episodes

  • 209: Pao Ortega's Journey of Healing Through Breathwork and Mind-Body Techniques

    209: Pao Ortega's Journey of Healing Through Breathwork and Mind-Body Techniques
    Nov 25 2024
    Former advertising executive Pao Ortega once found herself trapped in a seemingly perfect life in New York City, at odds with the inner chaos of depression, anxiety, and burnout. During a pivotal moment of introspection, she made the courageous decision to face these challenges head-on. In our latest episode of the Addicted Mind Podcast, we explore Pao's enlightening transformation journey, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and kindness. Through her story, we uncover the profound impact of becoming a student of one's own body and mind, and how integrating practices from around the globe can foster healing and empowerment. Our conversation delves into the powerful world of breathwork, highlighting the influence of ancient techniques like pranayama, qigong, and Shakti Nam in fostering relaxation and healing. Pao and I discuss how these practices can shift energy, create positive feedback loops, and guide individuals toward personal empowerment and wellness. The journey from internal struggle to self-healing underscores the possibility of overcoming prolonged suffering with persistence, consistency, and the right tools. We also address the importance of creating a morning routine that sets the tone for a successful day. Pao shares insights into how endorphin-inspired activities, like her passion for running, contribute to well-being and happiness. In this episode, you will hear: Pao Ortega's transformation from burnout to empowerment through breathwork and mind-body techniques Exploration of ancient practices like pranayama, qigong, and Shakti Nam for relaxation and healing Importance of self-awareness, persistence, and the right tools in overcoming mental health challenges Crafting a personalized blend of practices for emotional, mental, and physical healing Significance of mindset, movement, and nutrition in achieving personal wellness Creating a morning routine and incorporating endorphin-boosting activities for well-being 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: NovusMindfulLife.com 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    46 mins
  • TAM+ Episode 45: Turn Criticism into Growth: Transforming Your Response to Criticism

    TAM+ Episode 45: Turn Criticism into Growth: Transforming Your Response to Criticism
    Nov 21 2024
    Ever felt like feedback in your recovery journey hits you like a punch to the gut? You're not alone. In this eye-opening episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive into why criticism can feel so painful during recovery and share game-changing strategies to transform those tough moments into opportunities for growth. Drawing from cutting-edge research in neuroscience and psychology, they explain how our early life experiences shape our sensitivity to criticism and why some people struggle more than others with feedback. But here's the good news: by adopting what scientists call a "growth mindset," you can learn to receive feedback differently and use it to strengthen your recovery journey. The brothers share practical, easy-to-implement strategies that can help you shift from feeling defensive and ashamed to seeing criticism as valuable feedback for your growth. Whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is, this episode offers essential tools for turning difficult feedback into stepping stones toward lasting change. Download: Growth Mindset Worksheet Click Here to Join the TAM + Community. Get the support you need. Our Deep Dive is now in the community, where we discuss this episode in depth. KEY TOPICS Understanding why criticism hits harder for some people The connection between early childhood experiences and sensitivity to criticism How the brain's stress response system affects our reaction to feedback Dr. Carol Dweck's research on growth mindset Three practical strategies for developing a growth mindset The role of criticism in sustainable recovery Practical tools and worksheets for implementing these strategies TIMESTAMPS [00:01:07] Introduction to criticism's impact on recovery [00:02:45] Understanding sensitivity to criticism through attachment theory [00:06:00] Introduction to growth mindset concept [00:08:00] Real-world examples of criticism in recovery [00:11:11] Three practical strategies for developing growth mindset [00:13:21] Practicing affirming statements [00:14:57] Resources and community support information Follow and Review: 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: If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    19 mins
  • 308: Transforming Pain into Growth and Resilience with Arlina Allen

    308: Transforming Pain into Growth and Resilience with Arlina Allen
    Nov 18 2024
    In this episode of the Addicted Mind Podcast, listeners are introduced to Arlina Allen, host of the One Day at a Time podcast, who shares her profound journey from addiction to recovery. At a pivotal moment during a Giants game in Oakland, Arlina recognized the unyielding grip of addiction and the cycle of shame it perpetuates. Drawing from her new book, "The 12-Step Guide for Skeptics: Clearing Up Common Misconceptions of a Path to Sobriety," Arlina offers insights into the intricate process of recovery. Through personal anecdotes, she explores the influence of childhood experiences on addictive behaviors and emphasizes the importance of addressing root causes to break free from harmful patterns. The episode delves into the concept of the cybernetic loop in behavioral psychology, highlighting how negative experiences reinforce damaging beliefs. Arlina's journey is enriched by her exploration of self-discovery and spirituality, offering a refreshing perspective on recovery. In this episode, you will hear: Arlina Allen's journey from addiction to recovery, highlighting personal experiences and family dynamics. Insights from Arlina's book, "The 12-Step Guide for Skeptics," addressing misconceptions about sobriety. The role of childhood trauma and family influences in shaping addictive behaviors. Exploration of the cybernetic loop in behavioral psychology and its impact on reinforcing negative beliefs. Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory and navigating internal resistance in healing. 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: NovusMindfulLife.com https://odaatchat.com/ https://www.soberlifeschool.com/ 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    53 mins
  • TAM+ Episode 44: Unlocking Your Inner Optimist: How Your Attention Shapes Your Reality

    TAM+ Episode 44: Unlocking Your Inner Optimist: How Your Attention Shapes Your Reality
    Nov 14 2024
    Ever wonder why two people can experience the exact same event but walk away with completely different emotions? In this fascinating episode of The Addicted Mind Podcast Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive into the science of optimism and reveal how our attention shapes our reality. They explain that optimism isn't about ignoring negative experiences or forcing positivity – it's about training our brain to process both positive and negative information in a balanced way. Through practical examples and evidence-based strategies, they show listeners how to break free from negative thought spirals and develop genuine optimistic thinking. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or just want to build more resilience, this episode offers simple yet powerful tools to help you unlock your inner optimist and transform how you experience life's challenges. Download: Unlocking Your Inner Optimist Worksheet Click Here to Join the TAM + Community. Get the support you need. Our Deep Dive is now in the community, where we discuss this episode in depth. Key Topics The difference between toxic positivity and genuine optimism How attention bias affects our experience of events The science behind optimistic versus pessimistic thinking Three evidence-based strategies for developing optimism The role of physical movement in changing perspective How optimism builds resilience and creativity Practical daily exercises for training your brain Timestamps [00:01:27] The power of perspective: Same event, different experiences [00:03:42] The science behind attention and optimism [00:05:19] Why this isn't toxic positivity [00:09:30] Introduction to practical strategies [00:09:54] The two-chair technique explained [00:11:28] The daily spotlight exercise [00:13:02] The reframe challenge technique Follow and Review: 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: If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    19 mins
  • 307: The Art of Recovery and Finding Purpose Beyond Addiction With Judy Grisel

    307: The Art of Recovery and Finding Purpose Beyond Addiction With Judy Grisel
    Nov 9 2024
    Renowned behavioral neuroscientist Judy Grisel joins us for an eye-opening conversation on addiction and recovery. Judy shares her compelling journey from grappling with substance abuse as a young teenager to becoming a leading expert in addiction neuroscience. Her book, "Never Enough: The Neuroscience and Experience of Addiction," seamlessly intertwines her personal experiences with scientific insights, offering a nuanced understanding of how addictive personalities can harbor hidden potential. We examine the shortcomings of punitive measures in addressing substance abuse, advocating instead for the power of positive incentives in recovery. Through vivid stories, we illustrate how individuals transform their addictive tendencies into remarkable achievements and societal contributions. By focusing on the enrichment that comes with sober living, we emphasize the importance of novelty and excitement as vital components in breaking free from addiction's grip and building meaningful lives. In this episode, you will hear: Judy Grisel's journey from substance abuse to becoming a renowned neuroscientist. Exploration of her book "Never Enough: The Neuroscience and Experience of Addiction." The inefficacy of punitive measures and the benefits of positive incentives in recovery. The role of adolescent identity development in addiction vulnerability. Discussion of gender differences in stress sensitivity and addiction. The impact of novelty-seeking and dopamine on addictive behaviors. Strategies for building a meaningful life beyond 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: NovusMindfulLife.com https://www.bucknell.edu/fac-staff/judy-grisel 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 Follow and Review: 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: If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 mins
  • TAM+ Episode 43: Breaking Free: Why Shame (Not Guilt) Is Sabotaging Your Recovery

    TAM+ Episode 43: Breaking Free: Why Shame (Not Guilt) Is Sabotaging Your Recovery
    Nov 7 2024
    Have you ever noticed that after a slip in recovery, your thoughts immediately jump to "I'm worthless" or "I'm never going to get better"? These aren't just random negative thoughts – they're part of a powerful emotion that might be secretly sabotaging your recovery journey. In this eye-opening episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive deep into the crucial difference between guilt and shame in addiction recovery. Through evidence-based research and practical experience, they reveal why many people mistakenly identify their shame as guilt, and how this misunderstanding can keep them trapped in the addiction cycle. The hosts share three powerful, scientifically-backed tools that listeners can start using immediately to build shame resilience and strengthen their recovery journey. Whether you're in recovery yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers essential insights into breaking free from the destructive grip of shame while building a healthier relationship with yourself and others. Download: Shame Sabotaging Your Recovery Worksheet Click Here to Join the TAM + Community. Get the support you need. Our Deep Dive is now in the community, where we discuss this episode in depth. KEY TOPICS The critical difference between guilt ("I made a mistake") and shame ("I am a mistake") How toxic shame fuels the addiction cycle Research findings on shame's direct link to substance use problems The importance of shame resilience in recovery Three easy tools for breaking the shame spiral The role of connection and community in overcoming shame Practical language shifts for transforming shame into growth TIMESTAMPS [00:01:20] Introduction to shame's impact on recovery [00:02:31] Research findings on shame vs. guilt in addiction [00:04:00] How toxic shame creates a negative cycle [00:08:14] First tool: The Language Shift technique [00:09:40] Second tool: The Shame Interrupt method [00:11:00] Third tool: The Connection Practice [00:13:40] Community resources and next steps Follow and Review: 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: If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 mins
  • 306: REBROADCAST: Understanding The Trauma Map with Dr. Karol Darsa

    306: REBROADCAST: Understanding The Trauma Map with Dr. Karol Darsa
    Nov 4 2024
    On today’s episode, Duane speaks with Dr. Karol Darsa about how to recognize trauma as well as some of the first steps you need to take to deal with trauma. Karol is the author of the book, The Trauma Map: Five Steps to Reconnect With Yourself. She dives deep into how trauma impacts us in our everyday life as well as what we can do to deal with our traumatic histories so we can heal and feel better. If you have struggled with some trauma in your past, hopefully you will get a lot of insights from this episode as Karol shares her professional wisdom on recovering from trauma. A licensed psychologist for 23 years, Karol found herself repeating certain information over and over again. She realized what was really missing in a lot of people's minds was the understanding of what trauma is and what it does. Maybe they knew what trauma was but didn't understand that it could impact them to the degree that it was impacting them. Many people think trauma only applies to people who have been to war or were sexually abused. They don't consider other things to be trauma. However, trauma can also result from smaller incidents when people didn't even realize they felt traumatized. Hoping to explain the basics of trauma and how it works, Karol decided to write the book, The Trauma Map: Five Steps to Reconnect With Yourself. Karol also noticed an overarching characteristic of self-blame among her clients who were dealing with trauma. They were quick to judge themselves much more than they should. Therefore, Karol also wrote the book as a great tool for minimizing self-blame. In this episode, you will hear: What trauma is What the different types of trauma could look like Why the power of positive thinking sometimes backfires for people Recognizing relational trauma How trauma causes you to disconnect from your body Why people find it difficult to face painful situations Dismissing your feelings means a lack of self-acceptance How to eliminate self-blame Key Quotes: [03:49] - “What was really missing in a lot of people's minds is really the understanding of what trauma is, and what it does.” [04:57] - “The power of the positive thinking, sometimes that actually backfires for a lot of people.” [05:56] - “Many people think trauma means if you been to war, or maybe if you were sexually abused, but other than that, people don't consider other things as trauma.” [06:31] - “Trauma is a situation where it's so overwhelming that it makes you feel powerless, basically unable to cope.” [07:13] - “The most common trauma that people minimize is relational trauma.” [09:30] - "In the relational traumas, reactions don't function that way. People have to be able to look at their symptoms and recognize it." [13:50] - "We have a limited capacity to actually face painful situations. As human beings, we all are that way." [17:17] - "One of the problems of dismissing feelings or putting things away or dismissing our body is that we are ultimately not accepting who we are." If you really enjoyed this episode, we’ve created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at www.theaddictedmind.com to download it. Supporting Resources: The Trauma Map 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    37 mins
  • TAM+ Episode 42: From Self-Blame to Self-Compassion: Breaking the Addiction Shame Cycle

    TAM+ Episode 42: From Self-Blame to Self-Compassion: Breaking the Addiction Shame Cycle
    Oct 31 2024
    Are you your own worst enemy in recovery? This episode tackles the hidden barrier that keeps many people stuck in addiction - a harsh inner critic. Hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind explore how self-blame can sabotage recovery efforts and share research-backed strategies for developing self-compassion. Drawing from Dr. Kristen Neff's groundbreaking research, they explain why being kind to yourself isn't just "feel-good talk" but a powerful tool for lasting change. The hosts break down practical steps to transform your inner dialogue and explain why self-compassion actually leads to better accountability than harsh self-criticism. Whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is, this episode offers actionable tools to break free from shame and build lasting resilience. Download: From Self-Blame to Self-Compassion Recovery Worksheet. Click Here to Join the TAM + Community. Get the support you need. Our Deep Dive is now in the community, where we discuss this episode in depth. Key Topics The difference between self-compassion and self-excuse Research evidence supporting self-compassion in recovery How shame fuels addiction cycles Practical steps to develop self-compassion The role of community support in building self-compassion Connection between self-compassion and accountability Tools for identifying and transforming your inner critic Key Timestamps [00:01:23] Why we're kinder to others than ourselves [00:03:35] Understanding the trap of self-blame [00:05:02] Introduction to Dr. Kristen Neff's research [00:07:34] Self-compassion vs. making excuses [00:08:23] Practical steps for developing self-compassion [00:11:36] The importance of common humanity [00:14:31] Different timelines for change Follow and Review: 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: If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 mins