

Real Recovery Talk
Tom Conrad, Ben Bueno, Dr. Pamela Tambini
We are a podcast dedicated to sobriety and recovery from alcohol and drugs. (And whatever other addiction that is out there) It doesn't matter what you have been through in the past. We have all done very bad things in our addiction. This does not define who we are. We know there is a way out of addiction. Family and loved ones, you play a part in this as well. There are plenty of stories out there of families and loved ones not knowing what to do with their addicted loved one. Let us guide you on the right things to do and the right decisions to make to ensure that you and your loved one gets the help that you need.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 1, 2024 • 1h 12min
440: Sponsorship 101: Guiding the Path to Recovery
Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services In this episode of Real Recovery Talk we delve into the nuanced world of sponsorship within both Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Sponsorship is a cornerstone of these programs, but each fellowship offers unique approaches and philosophies. We discuss how AA's focus on alcoholism and NA's approach to addiction in general shape sponsorship styles and what these differences mean for the sponsor-sponsee relationship. We also share our thoughts on guiding someone through the 12 steps effectively, emphasizing how critical it is to tailor the process to the individual. In doing so, we highlight some common missteps that can turn the steps into hurdles rather than tools for growth. For instance, moving too quickly, being overly rigid, or focusing more on personal beliefs than on helping can be detrimental to a sponsee's journey. This episode serves as both a guide and a reflective piece, offering valuable insights for sponsors, sponsees, and anyone interested in how the right approach to sponsorship can make all the difference in recovery.
Oct 30, 2024 • 58min
439 - Redefining Faith and Sobriety: Daniel's Path to Lasting Recovery
Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services In this episode, we sit down with Daniel, who opens up about his journey to sobriety and the unexpected challenges he faced along the way. Daniel shares how his Christian faith initially made his path to recovery more complex, presenting unique struggles as he worked to get clean. Through his story, we explore what it took for Daniel to finally reach long-term sobriety and the essential steps he takes today to maintain it. Daniel emphasizes the role that building a strong community played in his early recovery, highlighting how those connections have supported his lasting success. His story is one of resilience, adaptation, and faith redefined. Join us for this inspiring conversation on the power of community and finding harmony between personal faith and the path to sobriety.
Oct 27, 2024 • 53min
438: Alexander's Journey: Suboxone, Abstinence Based Recovery, Getting Clean at a young age
Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services In this episode, we welcome Alexander to share his powerful story of overcoming addiction at such a young age. As he completes the program here at Rock Recovery Center, Alexander reflects on his journey of transformation. At first glance, Alexander didn't seem like someone who would be able to stay clean and sober, but by following directions and embracing the guidance given, he's now on the path to long-term sobriety. Alexander dives into the details of his past, explaining why it was so difficult for him to get clean and what finally clicked to set him on the right track. He also offers valuable insights on what it truly takes for others to get clean and sober. As he looks toward the future, Alexander shares his plans and what keeps him motivated to continue living a life of recovery. This episode is a testament to resilience and the power of following through on the advice that can change your life.
Oct 25, 2024 • 52min
437 - Faith, Spirituality, and Sobriety: Finding Balance in Recovery
07Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services In this episode, we dive deep into the role of religion within the sobriety journey and explore how it fits into 12-step programs. We discuss our own thoughts on the intersection of faith, spirituality, and recovery, emphasizing the importance of keeping an open mind and being receptive to suggestions when starting the path to sobriety. Responding to a listener's comment, we also address the delicate balance between religion and recovery, examining how rigid religious perspectives can sometimes push people away from 12-step programs. We highlight why it's crucial to give multiple meetings a try—because each meeting can have a different tone, group dynamic, and approach. It's important to stick with the 12-step process long enough to gain a true understanding of how it works and to see if it resonates with your journey. Sometimes, initial discomfort can give way to breakthroughs as you find the right group and environment to foster your growth. Join us for an insightful conversation on how to keep an open heart and mind in sobriety, while exploring the balance between faith and recovery.
Oct 23, 2024 • 56min
436 - Overcoming Codependency with Dani La barrie, LCSW
Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services Her Book: https://a.co/d/2HIS93F In today's episode of Real Recovery Talk, we are joined by Dani La berrie, a licensed clinical social worker, who shares her personal journey of battling codependency and how it ultimately led her to recovery. Dani opens up about the complexities of codependency, how it deeply infiltrated her life, and the turning point that helped her realize she needed to make a change. Now, as an online coach for both men and women, Dani helps others better understand their own codependency and provides tools for improving relationships and self-awareness. Join us for an insightful conversation on identifying the signs of codependency, its impact on personal and professional life, and practical steps for healing and growth.
Oct 20, 2024 • 1h 4min
435 : Living Pain-Free in Recovery with Dr. Jordan Zabriski
Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, we are joined by Dr. Jordan Zabriski to explore the vital role that living a pain-free lifestyle plays in supporting long-term recovery. Dr. Zabriski explains how chronic pain, often caused by poor movement patterns and lack of exercise, is a common gateway to opiate addiction. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper physical health, not just to avoid pain, but to amplify recovery and well-being. We discuss practical strategies for improving movement, flexibility, and strength, as well as how incorporating consistent exercise can significantly reduce the need for pain medications. Dr. Zabriski also shares insights into how movement and physical fitness can improve mental health, emotional stability, and overall quality of life in sobriety. This episode is filled with actionable tips and advice for anyone looking to stay healthy, active, and pain-free while maintaining their recovery.
Oct 18, 2024 • 49min
434 - Steve C: Relapse, Health Struggles, and Finding Balance Through Yoga
Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, we sit down with Steve, who shares his journey through recovery, relapse, and finding a new path to wellness. After multiple years of sobriety, Steve relapsed, but his biggest challenge throughout recovery was neglecting his physical health, which led to severe health consequences. As a former firefighter, Steve opens up about how the pressures of the job fueled his substance use and made maintaining sobriety more difficult. We dive into Steve's transformative experience with yoga and how it has revitalized both his body and spirit. He shares how this practice has helped him sustain his sobriety and improve his overall well-being, mentally and physically. Join us as Steve talks about the importance of holistic health in recovery and the powerful changes he's made to rebuild his life.

Oct 16, 2024 • 28min
433 - Essential Supplements for Recovery from Alcoholism and Drug Addiction
Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, we explore the important role that proper nutrition and supplementation play in the recovery process from alcoholism and drug addiction. After years of substance abuse, the body often becomes depleted of essential nutrients, and supplementation can help restore balance and improve overall health. We discuss the key vitamins and supplements that are particularly beneficial during recovery, such as B vitamins for energy and mood stabilization, magnesium for relaxation and sleep, and omega-3 fatty acids for brain health. We also talk about how these supplements can aid in reducing cravings, supporting mental clarity, and promoting physical healing. Tune in to learn more about how the right supplements can be a valuable part of your recovery toolkit, helping you feel stronger and more balanced as you rebuild your life.
Oct 13, 2024 • 1h 4min
432 - Marijuana and Recovery: Does it exist?
Something to Read: https://a.co/d/9g9nlj2 Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services

Oct 11, 2024 • 1h 25min
431 - What causes us to drink alcoholically: Russ L. story of redemption
Join our FREE FB Support group!: The Sobriety Network Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides Chat with us! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/services In this special episode of Real Recovery Talk, we welcome long-time listener Russ Lusk, who traveled all the way from Texas to share his powerful story. Russ opens up about his sobriety journey, detailing the struggles he faced and what it finally took for him to get sober. He candidly discusses how religion, at one point, drove him deeper into addiction, leading to feelings of betrayal by the church that he carried for years. We also explore the importance of finding a strong community in recovery, which Russ credits as a key factor in maintaining his sobriety. Additionally, Russ reflects on his time in the military and how his experiences there impacted his battle with alcoholism. Join us for an inspiring and raw conversation about overcoming adversity, the complexities of faith, and the strength that comes from a supportive recovery community.


