In this compelling episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. Rachel Docekal and John Dyben are joined by special guests Turner Benoit, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Hanley Foundation, and Niki T, a former patient and advocate in recovery. Niki shares her powerful journey from addiction to becoming a successful advocate, mother, and professional in the field of forensic social work. Turner discusses the transformative programs at Hanley that are changing lives, particularly for pregnant women and mothers struggling with substance use. The episode highlights Hanley's new Casa Flores program, which provides comprehensive, family-centered support for women and their children, breaking generational cycles of addiction.

Key Points

1. Niki’s Journey to Recovery

• Niki shares her struggles with addiction, including the turning point of discovering she was pregnant while incarcerated.
• Her recovery began at Hanley Center, where she received treatment and support that transformed her life, helping her become a present and engaged mother.
• Now a forensic social worker and parent advocate, Niki uses her lived experience and education to support families navigating addiction and recovery.

1. Casa Flores Program at Hanley Foundation

• Turner Benoit discusses the launch of Casa Flores, a dedicated program providing comprehensive care for pregnant women and mothers in recovery.
• The program aims to break cycles of addiction by offering a safe space for women to seek recovery without fearing judgment or losing their children.
• Casa Flores includes job training, early learning, and housing to help families achieve long-term stability.

1. The Impact of the Scholarships for Education

• Niki shares how a scholarship from the Garwood Foundation, founded in memory of Mark Garwood, funded her educational journey.
• The Garwood Recovery Model supports individuals in recovery, helping them build a purposeful, self-sustaining life.
• Hanley Foundation’s partnership with the Garwood’s is helping to expand these life-changing services.

1. A Message of Hope for Families and Those Struggling with Addiction

• Niki emphasizes the importance of hope and understanding for both those in active addiction and their families.
• She encourages those in addiction to reach out, knowing recovery is possible and there are people who truly understand the struggle.

Resources Mentioned

• Hanley Center Programs
• Casa Flores Program: Providing a pathway to recovery and family reunification for mothers in recovery.
• Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarships: Scholarships and support services for individuals seeking purpose through recovery.

Contact Information For more information about Hanley Foundation’s programs or to contribute to their mission, visit Hanley Foundation or call 844-502-4673.

Tune in next time for more stories of resilience, innovation, and hope from The Hanley Effect.

Show Notes for The Hanley Effect Podcast - Episode with Joshua Love

Episode Overview:

In this insightful episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with Joshua Love, the Clinical Director of Headwaters. With warmth and humor, they explore Joshua’s journey into the addiction and mental health field, his passion for family support, and Headwaters' innovative approach to treating high-net-worth individuals dealing with addiction. Recorded on Joshua's birthday, this episode dives deep into the personal and professional dedication that drives Hanley Foundation's work.

Key Discussion Points:

• Joshua’s Journey:
• Joshua shares his journey from his early teenage years, influenced by family and community values, to his current role. He reflects on how personal experiences, such as the loss of a family member to AIDS and the role of stigma, shaped his commitment to helping those struggling with addiction.
• Headwaters Program at Hanley Foundation:
• Joshua describes Headwaters’ unique approach, which serves executives, celebrities, and other high-profile individuals in a private, supportive environment. He emphasizes the importance of confidentiality, trust, and creating spaces where patients can confront societal pressures and embrace sobriety.
• Family Support and Community Engagement:
• A cornerstone of Hanley’s treatment is its free, weekly family support groups, where family members connect, share experiences, and support each other. These groups have grown into a powerful resource that includes attendees from other states and even internationally.
• Innovative Treatment Approaches:
• Headwaters integrates advanced biometric and genetic testing, food sensitivity assessments, and personalized wellness plans. By providing real-time feedback, clients gain insights into their physical and mental health, enhancing their journey to recovery.
• Addressing Stigma Across Socioeconomic Levels:
• The discussion addresses how stigma affects people across all social classes, including those in positions of power. For patients at Headwaters, recovery includes redefining social interactions without alcohol and finding purpose outside their public identities.

Connect with Hanley Foundation:

For more information about Hanley Foundation programs, visit hanleyfoundation.org or to learn more about Headwaters visit headwatersfl.org call 844-502-4673.

Episode Highlights:

1. Joshua’s Background & Motivation – 00:03:17
2. Headwaters’ Family Programs & Community Impact – 00:04:49
3. Balancing Public Identity and Recovery – 00:13:19
4. Innovative Treatments at Headwaters – 00:19:34
5. Importance of Confidentiality – 00:27:40

Thank you for listening to The Hanley Effect! Join us next time as we continue exploring stories of resilience, hope, and recovery.

A First Responder’s Road to Recovery

Hanley Effect, a podcast brought to you by Hanley Foundation, is back with, as always, CEO of Hanley Foundation, Dr. Rachel Docekal, and Hanley’s Chief of Research and Innovation, Dr. John Dyben!

Tune in this week for a truly inspiring episode as we welcome Steve Campana, a retired firefighter/paramedic and EMS captain with an impressive 32-year career in the fire service! After dedicating his life to helping others (but don't let him hear you call him a hero!), Steve now focuses on assisting individuals battling addiction. He shares his transformative journey from the adrenaline-fueled world of emergency services to finding his true self through recovery and holistic healing.

Steve opens up about the challenges that he faced as a first responder, from compartmentalizing traumatic experiences to grappling with feelings of lost purpose after retirement. His candid reflections shed light on the true importance of emotional expression and mental health awareness in the first responder community. As he recounts powerful moments from his career, you can expect to hear how he learned to embrace vulnerability and prioritize authenticity!

We also meet the true special guest of the show - Mac, Steve’s adorable therapy dog, who plays a pivotal role in his healing journey! Mac was trained through the Paws and Stripes program which pairs therapy dogs with first responders. Together, they explore the profound impact of canine companionship on mental health and recovery.

Prepare to be inspired by Steve's resilience, wisdom, and the unconditional love of his furry friend. Whether you're a first responder, in recovery, or simply curious about the power of personal growth, this episode promises to resonate deeply and ignite hope!

In This Episode:

[02:48] - Hear how Steve embraces his authentic self at Hanley, unlike his past as a firefighter.

[04:26] - We learn that Steve spent 32 years with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, starting as a police explorer.

[06:58] - Select firefighter paramedics can become SWAT deputies, which excited Steve during operations.

[09:32] - Learn why Steve does not consider himself a hero.

[12:48] - Steve admits that he used compartmentalization as a tool, reaching a breaking point while hiding his trauma.

[15:33] - Overwhelming stress led Steve to rely on drugs and alcohol during his late 20s.

[17:00] - Steve feels that the first responder community's mental health culture is improving but still needs progress.

[19:20] - From a young age, Steve felt different growing up, prioritizing image over leadership opportunities and neglecting his team.

[21:29] - Hear how a woman Steve met changed his retirement plans after he shared his past with her.

[23:56] - Despite adversity, Steve maintained positivity, gaining respect and realizing his leadership shortcomings.

[27:20] - Steve's therapy dog Mac assists first responders, connecting to Steve's own experiences.

[31:42] - The Paws and Stripes program trains therapy dogs, caring for them prior to adoption.

[35:22] - Since COVID, Mac has become well-known at Hanley, helping reduce stress on campus.

[38:10] - Steve reveals that Mac will soon assist in group sessions.

[41:07] - Steve envisions a three-dog unit at Hanley to provide support for all patients.

[42:46] - Steve stresses the importance of reaching out to support fellow first responders in pain.

[45:30] - The new facility will reflect Hanley’s unique style with innovative features for success.

Links and Resources:

Hanley’s Patriot Program

844-502-4673