Episode Links

Episode 160 - Shane is Back! (New 4/12/20)
Recorded Mar. 30, 2020

Shane is Pure 100% Juice, he is the “Bear in Pants”, and most recently “Yogi Bear”, a solid Recovery Warrior, he is my Spiritual Brother and my Sponsee Brother.
Shane joined me in the studio this morning to talk Recovery. He is such an enigma, he lives on a spiritual plane that few understand, and that helps me grow, his impact on my life and my recovery has been immeasurable.
He spends a tremendous amount of energy in both his own recovery and the recovery of others, he strives to be a better version of himself day by day in a manner that inspires all who come in contact with him, and he does that in what looks like an effortless manner.
If you can't tell by now, I really really like Shane, simply put, I love this man like a true brother.
His story sits at #1 in listens, he was at the inaugural coffee shop meeting when we first started brainstorming about this podcast. He has been a guest on nearly every round table episode - and he was back today to catch y’all up on what’s been happening in his life. --- Enjoy!

Episode 159 - Chase is Back! (New 4/5/20)
Recorded Mar. 30, 2020

Chase was the very first "Story" on the podcast, Episode 100, as a sponsee of mine, it was an easy first pick. He and I have known one another for a year or so previous to our current sobriety dates, having met in a treatment center.
He has truly implemented the Twelve Steps into his life and has also "added to" the quality of his recovery through many avenues.
Today, we met virtually in this new era to chat about the current Covid-19 pandemic, and to share about what living in a recovered state means to us when the rubber meets the road.
Enjoy!! Youtube Video - https://youtu.be/t5dSFoxnbQE

Episode 158 Covid-19 Early Recovery with Kevin F
(New 3/29/20)
Recorded Mar. 21, 2020

Face to Face Recovery meetings have screeched to a halt, virtual online meetings have popped up everywhere. You can now visit a meeting almost anywhere in the country, possibly the world.
Kevin is approaching 90 days, he joined me in the studio to talk about his experience in this ever changing climate, the impersonal nature of online meetings, the difficulty in doing so in a house with family, and much more.
One day at a time living means more than ever...
Enjoy!

Episode 157 LJ's Story (New 3/22/20)
Recorded Mar. 15, 2020

LJ came around sniffing for "More", he is finding it! This man has is 18 months along in continuous recovery and is seriously dedicated to it.
I met LJ the first night he popped into the Spiritual Underground, he wandered around different meetings looking for whatever it was that was missing from his recovery journey, he came back to the Underground believing that he had found the source. He certainly has been tapping the "Juice" since his arrival.
The story that got him here is nothing short of tragic, to survive it in the first place is a major miracle, these turn arounds in the lives of those who take on the Twelve Step tools and principles continue to convince me that we have tapped a limitless load.
Enjoy!

Episode 156 Becky T's Story (New 3/15/20)
Recorded Mar. 11, 2020

On March 23, 2011 I walked into my first AA meeting with a true third tradition in my pocket, a desire to stop. It was a bumpy four years to my current sobriety date... Becky was the first person that I ever met who stuck her hand out and said “Hi, my name is ______, and I am an alcoholic” I hesitantly said it back, and I can say today, that truly didn’t know if I was or not, I didn't really know what alcoholism was. Becky saw me from the beginning, she saw me disappear and come back, in this episode she states seeing a dark state at times, and I can promise you there were some very dark times....And she saw the magic happen in 2015 also.
She’s been a beautiful maternal type presence in my recovery the entire ride, we have a spiritual connection, it's been there from day one.
Her story is different from most, saying a lot about that would take away from the episode, so take a listen, and Enjoy!

Episode 155
Mimi H's Story (New 3/8/20)
Recorded Feb. 26, 2020

Impactful people are a treasure in our lives, being conscious of that impact is a blessing in itself, acknowledging the gift of the impact is extremely important. Mimi has impacted my life primarily through the practice of yoga, as an inspiring teacher and as 502 Power Yoga’s Director of Teacher Training of which I completed in March 2019. She introduced me to stand-up paddleboarding, even doing yoga on the unstable platform, life is not always stable, practicing on a board parallels that, and much of how yoga parallels life has been introduced to me by Mimi. Her passion for service is phenomenal, her ability to quickly connect with others is something I saw and felt immediately, and some of that evidence can be heard in this episode. Mimi is an inspiration to all who come in contact with her. Enjoy!

Episode 154
Barry J's Story (New 3/1/20)
Recorded Feb. 19, 2020

Barry and his wife Kathy walked into my life prior to my current sobriety date, back when I was pretending to be sober. They both loved me until I could love myself, they witnessed the miracle change in me. Barry always has had that sparkle in his awesomely beautiful blue eyes, and the sparkle is now in overdrive now that he has taken his recovery to another level through the TSSR 12-Step methodology. He is the quintessential example of a man who had received the miracle of the 12-Steps but still felt something was missing until he tried the steps another way.
Enjoy!

Episode 153
Dillon L's Story (New 2/23/20)
Recorded Feb. 16, 2020

Dillon just celebrated ONE YEAR and I love to have these fresh recovery story's on the show, Dillon is 22 years old and has been through more than most twice his age. Three years ago he was shot in the head, has traumatic brain injury, he lost an eye, and today he continues on a road of both physical and spiritual recovery. Dillon's mother and step father Keith are both in long term recovery, Keith was in the studio with him today and I hope to have him on the show very soon.
"To watch people recover, to see them help others, to watch loneliness vanish, to see a fellowship grow up about you, to have a host of friends - this is an experience you must not miss. We know you will not want to miss it. Frequent contact with newcomers and with each other is the bright spot of our lives" BB Pg.89
Enjoy!

Episode 152
Angela C's Story (New 2/16/20)
Recorded Feb. 12, 2020

I love meeting a new friend through this little enterprise! Angela came to me through Timara, and dang I'm happy about that, Angela and her husband Randy joined me on this cold dark rainy Wednesday and the moment I met them I felt a very familiar energy, the energy of recovery. Her story in amazing and spoke to me about just how powerless we can be in the raising of children, you see, both of her parents were active in the recovery community and had been for most of her life. It's my opinion that this genetic component can't really be overcome, and that part of our journey here on this big blue marble is to overcome obstacles in life, then turn around and help others to do the same. You will here many occurrences of this in Angela's Story.
Enjoy!

Episode 151
Bart M's Story (New 2/9/20)
Recorded Feb. 5, 2020

Bart made am impression on me during my first days dabbling in recovery, I really did not know what to expect when I first walked into the rooms. This man did not fit my narrative, he had a quiet confidence, but also an outspoken voice when he shared, I heard both strength and vulnerability although none of that really made any sense to me. He has been on my secrete guest list for some time now, and just a few weeks ago at the yoga studio, I looked over and saw Bart on his mat - more proof that I only need to get out of the way and the universe will create.
I really enjoyed our morning recording this episode, and getting to know Bart better - I'm sure you will enjoy it also!

Episode 017 Dan's Musing at 5 Years (New 2/2/20)
Recorded Feb. 1, 2020

Today's episode is a little recap of my five years of recovery. This past Tuesday night, five men celebrated recovery mile markers, two one year, a three, my five, and a six - all but one have been on this podcast. I had a small scheduling issue with a guest who for unavoidable circumstances needed to move her date out just a little. I've been wanting to speak on this subject and HP presented the opportunity just like I find always happens as long as I get out of the way - Hope you enjoy it!

Episode 150 Mike L's Story (New 1/26/20)
Recorded Jan. 5, 2020

Boom Boom Brian L sent this awesome gentleman my way, Mike is another guy I first met as he walked up to my home, I immediately knew I was in for a treat and I look forward to possibly having him share some more of his wonderful stories. Men like Mike who have been in recovery for many years have long miracle lists even though that is not what they call them.
Mike is originally from Iowa and found himself in Louisville due to employment opportunities, we are blessed that happened. Among a bunch of other great stuff, Mike tells one specifically Juicy Story that put chills in the back of my neck, listen in to hear that!

Episode 149
Jon B's Story (New 1/19/20)
Recorded Jan. 5, 2020

Jon approached me in a meeting one night, I did not know him yet, but I was going to get to know him very well. He asked me"Where did you get that word JUICE?"
Turns out we had some commonality in both having attended Spiritual Underground meetings. A friendship blossomed and has been continuing for some five years or so.
Jon has another distinction in my development, he was the first person to suggest that he and I do his fifth step at the cabin, I recall first mentally rejecting the idea, then quickly realizing that it was an excellent idea, and I've done every fifth step at that location every since - that is huge in my sponsorship.

John sponsors Jon, and that's a bit confusing in some ways, but you will enjoy this episode, the three of us moved through Jon's story in a highly energetic way, I love both of these men, and I love their outlook on recovery and on life.

Episode 148
Timara T's Story (New 1/12/20)
Recorded Dec. 29, 2019

I've known Timara for eight years or so, but never got to know her well, I've heard her share and her confident straight forward way of carrying herself has always impressed me. In an effort to gain some balance on the podcast, I have been actively searching for gals to invite to share their stories. I've bumped into her in some yoga classes which also caught my attention as yoga has been a huge part of my recovery over the past three years.
She works in the field of recovery and is continuing her education in pursuit of "adding to" her tool box, she speaks to her passion for helping the underserved geriatric incarcerated population during the show.
She has had an amazing journey, a story you do not want to miss, a genuine miracle in recovering one's true self, recovering her true voice.

Season TWO!!
Episode 147
Dave F's Story (Nicotine & Weight Loss)
(New 1/5/20)
Recorded Dec. 22, 2019

Dave and I crossed paths at a nicotine quitting web forum, one that I ended up getting banned from... Dave was in the March 2018 group and I was a couple months ahead in what came to be called the January FURY, and a fury we were, I know at least three others what were part of our group that are now banned, bad boys I presume :-)

I did not really know Dave that well, March was a quiet bunch, but I became friends with the "leader" of March (I say leader, because somebody, or some few people tend to step up and take the lead). Brad, aka Cochese was that guy, and it turned out where most of the Quitters were spread across the country, Brad and I lived 15 minutes from one another.

Fast forward a couple years, and Brad and I, among others, are in a GroupMe chat group and we discuss inviting others to the group, Dave was the first person Brad mentioned. After introductions and getting to know a little about Dave, I immediately was struck that I needed to get him on the podcast to tell his story. I'm a sucker for transformation stories, and this is one for sure - I hope you enjoy it!

Episode 146 James G's Story (New 12/29/19)
Recorded Dec. 18, 2019

Seems the Universe is introducing me to new friends! James is the third in a row who I met for the first time as they approached me in my driveway! The majority of guests to date have been friends of mine already, I do really like this branching out of the podcast, it's good from my prospective for two reasons: The first is getting to meet new people, the second is that it allows the podcast to grow into new directions, new audiences as these new friends share with the folks they know.
James is Anthony L's friend, and that is how I came to know James. he is one of many, like me, who had some recovery in the past and let that go, and by miracle made it back.

During the podcast, I had what appeared to be an extreme emergency inside my home, James and I were in the wood shop recording when my 16 year old sone came running in... you'll have to listen to hear what happened.
I loved getting to know James, to hear his story, and chat with him, and I'm especially honored to have friends that will follow me into the situation that occurred during the recording, I hope you enjoy it also.

Episode 145 Brad G's Story (New 12/22/19)
Recorded Dec. 15, 2019

For the second time in a row, I met my guest for the first time as he pulled up in my driveway! That's exiting! Brian L. has been talking about his first sponsor Brad H. for some time now, and I finally was able to meet him as Brian had convinced Brad into coming to the podcast to tell his story. Frankly this recovery wisdom needs to be preserved before it is too late. Brad and I immediately hit it off, I could have the tape running from the second he came through the door, his popping personality blended perfectly with his gentle humility. Brad has always been sponsored bt Billy H who you can also hear on the Spiritual Underground Podcast.

Episode 144 Quitting 101 (New 12/15/19)
Recorded Dec. 01, 2019
The notion of Quitting nicotine has been getting a lot of attention in my circles lately, I have a number of friends in early recovery from this substance. and yes, I said recovery, that is a word rarely used in connection with nicotine. But let me tell you, I can honestly say that quitting nicotine was the toughest substance I have tackled, I wish I could explain it in a way that could be thoroughly understood, "You just have to do it" to understand. The Colonel and I spend some time discussing many of the ins and out of "The Quit".

One big difference is the way the cravings slip up on you later on in the process (See PQA # 7), at the moment you think you are getting a handle on your Quit, it will show up and bitch slap the crap out of you. It will make you feel like you Quit a just a few days ago, that horrible first week feeling is back in your lap. That is why complacency can be such a huge risk (See PQA #4), let your guard down and one of these hits, and your Quit can be in serious jeopardy.

We place importance on posting your daily promise first thing in the morning (See PQA #8), get your accountability in order before the Nic Bitch gets a chance to get a foothold. Next up is keeping in touch with your support Brothers and Sisters, they are your first line of defense. I can't tell you how many times my friends have saved my ass, a simple phone call or a post on a group chat can make all the difference.

We have released a number of Public Quit Announcements (PQA's) that can help you understand watts going on in your head, along with suggestions on how to handle the inevitable crises that arise during these critical phases.

ARE READY TO QUIT?

Episode 143 Jessie D's Story (New 12/08/19)
Recorded Dec. 04, 2019
I first met Jessie as she pulled up in my driveway arriving for the podcast recording, I am both anxious and excited for my new guest. I'm anxious because I always anxious right before showtime, and because a "new to me" guest causes all kinds of goofy thoughts to enter my mind; "What if she doesn't like me?", "What if she's boring?", What if she changes her mind at the last minute?" - just stinking thinking. And none of these things happened, or have ever happened.

Her big beautiful smile caught me immediately, and disarmed all those misled thoughts.

Jessie's story contains childhood trauma, feelings of inadequacy, blurred perceptions, looking to the outside for what can only be found on the inside. She had periods of sobriety, followed always by deeper misery, she tried other methods to free her of this spiritual sickness - Then she found "Her Sponsor", who guided her through the Twelve Steps, freeing and reclaiming her essence, healing her soul, awakening her spirit.
Listen to Jessie's Story.

Episode 016 - 2019 Deer Camp (New 12/01/19)
Recorded Nov. 23, 2019
This is the second year that we've gotten together for a "Sober Dude Deer Camp", and as with the retreats, it seems each one is better than the last. Shane, Tony, Nick, Brian D, and Brian L were at the Fargo Hunt Club for the weekend, it's difficult to describe in words what these men mean to me and how much joy comes from being able to participate in my recovery in this manner. It was cold, it was rainy, but that will not stop hard core hunters from jaunting out into the woods to soak up the serenity and recharge their batteries.
I like to say "I hunt peace and serenity, and I kill time", I rarely shoot... Did we kill anything? Tune in to find out.

Episode 142 Tom B's Story - Thoroughly, Completely, and Absolutely (New 11/24/19)
Recorded Nov. 17, 2019
“Thoroughly, Completely, and Absolutely” I clearly remember the first night I met Tom, he was dressed for success, a big man who stood with a lot of confidence, while at the same time seemed to be hiding something, as so many of us do....
We met in the parking lot after the meeting, that instance is shared in this podcast. I can assure you that I can take no credit for the words I said that night, sometimes Higher Power delivers the exact phrases somebody needs to hear, and that’s exactly what happened that evening. Tom pushed all his chips to the center of the table shortly after that night, and he has been, as we say, “rocketed into the fourth dimension“ every since!

Episode 015 Dan's Musings 3 - Fall Sabbatical (New 11/17/19)
Recorded Nov. 12, 2019
I spent most of 2015 on home incarceration, on November 4th, I was released three months early and my vehicle was packed for a couple week trip to our family property for the prime time of deer season. Every year since then, I have spent at least a week at the cabin mostly by myself. It's a time to recharge my batteries, watch sunrises and sunsets, watch the animals go about their business. Time moves at a different pace here, I need some of that in my life now and again.

The magnificent buck taken from the Fargo Hunt Club

Episode 141 Anthony L's Story (New 11/10/19)
Recorded Nov. 3, 2019
Anthony and Charlie share sobriety dates and they lived together in the same recovery house, battle buddies so to speak. I met Anthony about the same time as Charlie and watched him grow through his first year, what an awesome thing to witness. Charlie, Anthony, and Tom (guest to be) all received one year tokens this past Tuesday night - and I had the honor of chairing that meeting and presenting Charlie's One Year Token and Mike J's Seven Year Token.
The collateral benefit of this podcast gig is getting to know these brothers and sisters on an intimate level, face to face, looking into their eyes as they share the story with me. Today I had that privilege with Anthony, and I'll admit I had pre-judged him quite a bit, his early days did not match up to my assumptions and his time in the madness was off the charts - I'm so honored to know his truth, his true story.
Tune in - you don't want to miss this one!

Episode 140 Billy H's Story (New 11/03/19)
Recorded Oct 20, 2019
I've seen Billy around town and know a little about him prior to today. A dear friend, Brian L (Episode 139), Billy, and myself met for breakfast prior to recording both of their stories back to back - What a Juicy Day! Billy has been in recovery a long time, nearly 40 years, he has been a circuit speaker carrying the message all over the country. I loved our time together, he offered me a pile of great stuff to “add to” my own program through some speakers and books that I was previously not familiar with. But most of all, I made a new friend through the process of one person across the table telling their story of recovery through the Twelve Steps.

Episode 139 Brian L's Story (New 10/27/19)
Recorded Oct 20, 2019
Brian is relatively new to our tribe, but not new to recovery, he is an instant powerhouse addition. Listen to this man speak and you will instantly know what I mean, he comes from a different sponsorship lineage and that "adds to" our group’s effectiveness. Today, his sponsor Billy H. joined him as they both told their stories back to back. I love the sponsor / sponsee combination in the studio, the is the second time I've done this, the two feed into one another as they share and that energy is felt in the words they speak. Stay tuned for next weeks episode where Billy is in the hot seat!

Episode 138 Tony's 100 Days Nicotine Free (New 10/20/19)
Recorded Oct 14, 2019
Tony came to the DTM Studio to celebrate his 100 days of freedom from nicotine and to share some other areas of his life where he has been experiencing growth, “The Colonel” joined in to add to the discussion, I’ll have to say he knows more about quitting nicotine than anyone else I know.
We talk about improving the quality of our lives by seeking out the things that allow us to grow closer to our higher power, and one way is to let go of the things that no longer serve us - quitting nicotine was definitely something that no longer served me, and now Tony is on that same path.
Go back and listen to a few minutes of Episode 110 of Tony’s story and tell me if you hear the difference, I sure do!

Episode 137 Charlie's Story - One Year! (New 10/13/19)
Recorded Oct 9, 2019
Charlie, Charlie, Charlie! On October 4, 2019, he hit 365 days in a recovered state.
What a blessing to walk beside this man! We met in a yoga studio and we've sweated together on many occasions, he a genuine bad ass on and off the mat, a recovery powerhouse who is destined to touch many lives. And once again, what began as the standard sponsor/sponsee relationship transformed into a deep and true friendship, a brotherhood really. His story, and how we came to be friends is told here today, I hope you enjoy it.

Episode 014 Jesse's Neverglades Retreat (New 10/6/19)
Recorded Sep 28, 2019
For eternity, men have gathered around campfires to commune, nine of us with direct sponsorship lineage gathered at Jesse's lakehouse to fellowship; a name emerged, "The Neverglades" - a magical place for swimming, fishing, eating, meditating, spelunking, holding meetings and recording Podcasts :-).

We crawled into a cave as Drew led us through a guided visualization meditation in the pitch dark, we shared about our experience, found one another in the dark for a closing prayer.

A third step decision wade made and the prayer followed...
Magical stuff happens in a recovered state, men helping men become better men - I'm on Juice overload.

Episode 136 Vlad's Story - On His Day 365 (New 9/29/19)
Recorded Sep 25, 2019
Vlad is one special dude to me, he is a cross between a brother and a son. Having had the honor of sponsoring him for the past 365 has been a real highlight of my recovery, all sponsee's are super special and I've been truly blessed with a bunch of great ones, but Vlad's story has a special energy that I can't exactly put my finger on.
As the title says, the day of this recording is his actual one year date, super cool that we were able to make this happen.

Episode 013 Christopher and Dan Q&A - New 9/22/19
Recorded Sep 21, 2019
Christopher and I were out together the night before this recording, he was supporting me in my Mankind Homecoming and we had some dinner and great conversation afterwards. This whole sponsor/sponsee relationship has grown into a "Iron sharpens Iron" friendship that I really treasure, our chemistry is fantastic, we are able to be completely vulnerable and because of that we have the ability to truly be of service to one another as Brothers in this journey.
This morning the two of us met at the DTM Woodshop to do some Q&A, we each made a list of 10 questions for each other, and we solicited questions from our brothers and sisters from various social media sources and attempted to share our experience, strength, and hope around those queries.

Episode 135 Don M's Story - New 9/15/19
Recorded Sep 8, 2019
During the opening of the show, I explain how I initially came to know Don, I'll spare you that here. Few folks have impacted my recovery at the level that his gentleman has. During our conversation, I kept realizing just how many of the "sayings" I use, more than likely can be attributed to Don.
I could sit and talk to him for hours on end, he is so full of wisdom, he conveys it with humility and in a very down home easy to understand manner.

Episode 012 September 21019 Roundtable - New 9/8/19
Recorded Sep 2, 2019
B-Mo and Mike pull up chairs to talk about what has been going on lately, B-Mo just completed his 5th step, and Mike has been making major moves in personal growth. The miracles of 12 Step Recovery are showing up in the lives of these men, one nearly new, and the other a half dozen years down the path. Listen up as they tell us what can happen when we practice these principles.

Episode 134 Mark B's Story - New 9/1/19
Recorded Aug 18, 2019
I met Mark at a meeting but I did not put two and two together when I received a heart warming email that was hugely complimentary towards the podcast. I immediately replied and we had a few exchanges before I was able to put the face with the name.
Mark has filled a spot in my heart with his vulnerability, his deep sharing, and his ability to humbly explain what recovery has meant in his life.
You are gonna like this, listen for why this is subtitled "Prime Time" !

Episode 133 Marshall P's Story - New 8/25/19
Recorded Aug 18, 2019
I love it when HP brings folks into your life and you almost immediately recognize it from the start. Some others take time, but Marshall was a known factor from my first conversation with him and I still recall exactly where I was when that happened - that says something in itself.

I think it’s important to hear guys like Marshall, he just hit his first year of recovery and is a shining example of what can happen for a guy or a gal relatively quickly.
Give this a listen, it’s another truly amazing story.

Episode 011 Dan's Musings - New 8/18/19
Recorded Aug 17, 2019
Sharing some things that are going on lately as I approach my 50th birthday, talked a little about my home incarceration experience, about my 2017 trip to Japan, nicotine quitting and a few other rambling thoughts. We have some super cool guests coming up over the next few weeks, so stay tuned, also PQA #2 has been been included which speaks to having a Quit Plan - Keep your eyes open and your ears to the wind :-)

Episode 132 Billy S's Story - New 8/11/19
Recorded Aug 10, 2019
The three banned bandito’s of nicotine quit picked up the microphones and chatted on a Saturday morning, discussions were primarily around Billy’s Quit journey, but also about quitting nicotine in general and what fun we used to have as we battled what was, and is still considered the Nic Bitch. The three of us met on a nicotine quitting website and our story is partially told here, and also in Episode 126 in Jim's Story.
Somehow, nearly two years later, the three of us remain nicotine free and still in almost daily contact.
Some bonus material includes a little story time, and the first of what I hope is many PQA’s (Public Quit Announcement), written and produced by Jim.

Episode 131 Wayne B's Story - New 8/4/19
Recorded July 28, 2019
My buddy Wayne came by the studio to share his story, he and I met in early 2015 as we were both finding our way, our dates are just a couple months apart. We saw each other regularly for the first year or so and then as things tend to happen, we found ourselves drifting apart. We are battle buddies of sorts, and those are lasting bonds.
Then fate brought us back together through a mutual friend, and I knew I wanted to catch up with him and what better way to do that than with the Podcast. I really enjoyed hearing his story and know you will too!

Episode 130 Alex S's Story - A Fighter's Submission
Recorded July 22, 2019
“A Fighter’s Submission”
Alex visited the studio on a Monday morning to tell his amazing story, and I promise you this one does not fit the script.
Alex was a professional MMA fighter who had the world in his hands, yet, “everything” was still missing.
A solid meditation practice kept him sane for a few years before he found 12 Step Recovery, then with a lot of hesitation, he waded in and now has placed all of his chips in the middle of the table.
I feel like I could go on and on about Alex, an I can... But instead, listen to him tell his story!

Episode 129 Bryann Owen Zielinski (Divorce Recovery)
Recorded July 8, 2019
Recovery: To Regain Something Lost or Stolen
The Universe is opening up my thoughts as they pertain to the word "Recovery", I want to explore these various ways one might find that which was lost or stolen. As a divorcee, I know that was one of the toughest periods of my life, and I was unable to maintain my sobriety through that process.
When Bryann popped up on a podcaster's networking site and used the word recovery in relation to divorce, I knew I wanted to talk to her.
Finding my true voice, recovering a lost piece of me, reinventing myself, reestablishing my autonomy...
All things that most of us have searched for, or are searching for - Thanks Bryann!
To see more of what Bryann is up to, click the following links:

http://www.rebuildingwithbryann.com
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-happy-mama-village/id1463404246
https://www.facebook.com/rebuildingwithbryann/

Episode 128 Dave B's Story
Recorded July 7, 2019
I met Dave on a New Years Day, I don't know what year, I'm gonna guess 2015. Anyway, here comes this dude walking into Happy's Meditation with a big bronze singing bowl in his backpack. He started talking about goofy stuff like Yoga, and his personality grabbed me instantly. Neither knew the other was in recovery, and it took a few weeks before we bumped into one another in a meeting. His walk is one I wish to emulate and there are some things he's doing that I'm certain to follow - or as we say:

"I Smell More"
"Add To My Life, The Things That Improve The Quality of My Life In Recovery"

To see what Dave is up to, click these links:
http://davethedogman.com/

https://www.facebook.com/davedogman1/

Episode 127 Lisa L's Story
Recorded June 30, 2019
I met Lisa in 2014 at a friend's meditation meeting above his garage, and I felt like Higher Power told me to "Watch what I do with this woman". Her energy was an immediate attraction.
That story is recorded in the podcast, and so is the fact that Lisa was sentenced to 30 years in prison and served only nine months. I have told countless people the "I have not seen anyone work the steps and place those principles into their lives, and still go to jail", Lisa's sentence changed that and myself, and the entire recovery community was shocked to say the least. But as I come to learn, never count Higher Power out, and true miracles are what I've come to expect - Lisa's story is certainly that - Listen up, because I'm also certain that this is only a beginning!
To help the causes Lisa is supporting:
THE BREAKAWAY
https://www.breakawaynewalbany.com/
https://www.facebook.com/breakawayrecovery1/
GRACE HOUSE
http://www.gracehousein.org/
https://www.facebook.com/GracehouseIN/
CONSTRUCTING OUR FUTURE
https://constructingourfuture.org/
https://www.facebook.com/constructingourfuture/

Episode 126 Jim A's Story (Nicotine)
Recorded June 16, 2019
On October 17, 2017, I bounced into a nicotine cessation website where groups of nicotine users were gathered in 30 day increments to begin a nicotine free lifestyle. We walked the cold turkey "Quit" path together, and with the help of others further down the path, some of us succeeded. One of the first guys I met was Jim A, also known as Colonel_No_Cope, later shortened to The Colonel. Not only a combat veteran and retired Army Officer, but a veteran of countless battles with the nicotine addiction.
We began a friendship that lasts to this day.
Here is his story... here is OUR story - Thanks Jim!

Episode 125 Nick and Mindy, Relationships in Recovery
Recorded June 9, 2019
Nick and Mindy visited the studio to discuss recovery relationships in recovery .
I often joke around about “resentments" being the number one offender, I disagree, "relationships" are the number one offender; I've heard "finances and romances" are some of the biggest threats to sobriety.
Somewhat a joke, but the fact is that relationships are hard to navigate, especially in early recovery. In this episode, Nick and Mindy share their experiences in walking that path.

Episode 124 Christoper C's Story
Recorded June 8, 2019
I simply can't begin to express how much this man means to me, he held his hand out and brought me along side of him when I most needed a mentor, a spiritual guide, a lantern bearer... He showed me the path to recovery beyond my greatest expectations. He is the author of "Twelve Step Spiritual Recovery, How to Reclaim Your Original Self/Soul", he is my sponsor and above that, he is my best friend.
The miracles in my life are a direct result of Christopher, and the tools and principles laid out in his book, I now have those same tools in which I have the honor of passing on to others.
He recently celebrated 35 years of recovery, here is his story, and it is a fascinating one, at somewhere around 18 years of sobriety, these new and better tools came into his life and transformed him forever, his mission now is pass this on to the entire world, including the traditional twelve step fellowships and way beyond, to those not typically "eligible", those without the "ism's" - the twelve steps is now available to all, thanks to Christopher and his book!

Episode 010 Pork and Wine - 6/12/2019
Recorded June 12, 2019
As I search for ways to carry this message to a broader audience, I am finding connections with other podcast hosts to be a great way to learn and to increase exposure. On today's episode, I was invited to Chef Salty Pork's "Pork and Wine" podcast. This is that conversation, check him out at the following links:

www.youtube.com/c/porkandwine

https://anchor.fm/chef-salty-pork

https://www.instagram.com/pork.and.wine/

Episode 123 Mike J's Story - 6/9/2019
Recorded June 2, 2019
I met Mike in my very first Spiritual Underground meeting, and one point he was on my short list as a sponsor (listen to my story, Episode 122), Mike is a solid member of our tribe who has struggled with some things while remaining recovered. Those stories are discussed here and I know it important that we see challenges still exist and can be survived in a healthy manner as long as we continue to keep the twelve step principals in our daily lives. Almost exactly one year ago Mike approached me and asked me to take him through the work, it has been a pleasure establishing a deeper connection with Mike and I know he has helped me more that I've helped him. He has a fantastic story, give it a listen.

Episode 122 Dan R's Story - 6/2/2019
Recorded June 1, 2019
Typing some show notes for this one is not easy, I really don't know what to say except that I was completely consumed by addiction at one point in my life and ended up with consequences that backed me into a corner that I felt there was no escape. The Twelve Steps revolutionized my entire being and that story is told in this podcast, I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed doing it.

Episode 121 Josh R's Story - 5/26/2019
Recorded May 10, 2019
Josh is just an awesome guy, he’s another one of the many that have come in to our group over the past few years, at the time this recording he was just over one year from his last use. I think it’s really important to tell the stories of how far person can come in such a short amount of time when they implement these tools the “right” way. Josh is really rocket it into the fourth dimension quickly and it shows very clearly and his spirit.

Episode 008 Live from the SPURT VI Retreat - 5/20/2019
Recorded May 17 & 18, 2019
Beginning in 2016, our home group began holding overnight retreats on private property in Southern Indiana, this is the sixth one of these.
We began at noon on a Friday and grew to 32 men around the campfire meeting on Saturday night. Great food, awesome fellowship, and deep connections are enjoyed by all. Truly a fantastic time, it is transformational, if you ever get a chance to go on one of these type events, specifically same sex events, please do yourself a favor and go.
This podcast contains 17 short interviews of the men who attended, I hope that you can feel the Juice we experienced on a beautiful May weekend in the forests of the Hoosier state.

Episode 120 Justin's Story - 5/19/2019
Recorded May 7, 2019
There is an old saying that reminds me of Justin, "Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense." There is some debate as to who it is attributed to, and I'm not getting into that. What I do know is that Justin is a guy I can talk to, our two hours together flew by, and even though he is inquisitive, he is always so very humble about it. We both agree that many things are Just not to be known. Justin is wise beyond understanding and has survived one of the "can't stay sober if that ever happens" events so many us dread - A seeker, disciplined, consistent, empathetic, compassionate... all describe him, listen, you won't regret it.

Episode 119 Cat's Story (Yoga)- 5/12/2019
Recorded May 5, 2019
Meet Cat, the owner of 502 Power Yoga in Louisville Kentucky (and in Jeffersonville Indiana😉), she and I spent some time on the tail end of this Derby weekend to chat about her story of coming to find her true spirit through the practice of yoga, another way I've heard it said is "True Voice".

Yoga, and specifically 502 Power Yoga, is where I picked up the phase "True North Alignment", it refers to the main positioning cues when calling poses, but for me it is also my internal compass, and what I follow to keep me aligned with my true spirit and my Higher Power's will. 502PY is my home studio, and where I received my 200 hours of teacher training. Without a doubt, yoga has been the single most influential thing in my recovery over the past couple years. I thank Cat for cultivating the community that allowed this growth spurt in my own personal journey. Listen up, there is a lot in her story that will help you in yours...

Episode 118 Frank N's Story - 5/5/2019
Recorded May 1, 2019
Frank is another man who has had a mighty big influence on my recovery, when we first met he was a couple years into a new start after having a long run of continuous sobriety. Like many, he has lots more years of recovery experience than the number on his current coin.
Frank's spiritual growth over the past few years has been astonishing to say the least, he has certainly laid down his old ideas and really truly opened up to new ones. I'm taking notes from him as I build my list of things to "add to" my life that enhance the quality of my recovery. Listen up, lotta gold in this interview.

Episode 117 Mark E's Story - 4/28/2019
Recorded Apr 21, 2019
I first heard of "Army Mark" during my early attempts at recovery in 2011, he was deployed and the group I was frequenting would give updates on how he was doing. That caught my attention, this group of folks were keeping a guy in the loop even though he was thousands of miles away.
I bounced in and out over the next few years and started to see Mark in person, but I didn't really get to know him until 2015. Mark has had a huge impact on my recovery, I've listened to a man who is not afraid to be vulnerable, a man who has put his life on the line for his country and now puts his life on display in order to help others, particularly with the veterans at the local VA hospital. I know you are going to enjoy hearing his story!

Episode 116 Lisa T's Story - 4/21/2019
Recorded Apr 17, 2019
Completely love Lisa, she has fantastic energy, and I knew we were gonna get along real well when she instantly fell in love with my rabbit Paige :-)
Starting right off with a beginning that rocked me back on my heels, she left me speechless for a bit - Yes, me, speechless! Lisa's is certainly a phoenix rising from the ashes story that will touch your heart. You will hear how a life of denial was smashed literally into her face, how she came to hear the message from an awesome group of women, and now how her own passion for recovery just pours from her heart.
I continue to be blessed with wonderful stories of recovery, and blessed with these opportunities to meet and know the wonderful souls behind the story.
Gratitude-Gratitude-Gratitude!

Episode 115 Jeremy G's Story
Recorded Mar 31, 2019
Many of the guests have been from my home group, I'm really Juiced to be branching out to others in the community like Jeremy! I really enjoy connecting with the soul at the other end of the table, and this guy has a soul the size of Mt. Everest, it is a blessing to have gotten to know Jeremy better, and now here is your chance also!

Episode 007 TSSR Number 2
Recorded Apr 13, 2019
The Twelve Step Spiritual Recovery movement here in Louisville has held it's first four meetings, the power in the meetings and the depth of the shares have been phenomenal! In honor of this, Christopher stopped by the studio to continue the discussions around the book, around the meetings, and mostly to just spend some time jaw jacking, spreading the word about what TSSR continues to do in our lives.
--- It is available to you right now!!

Episode 114 Darren F's Story
Recorded Mar 22, 2019
You are hearing his music around the podcast, and it took me a bit, but I finally managed to get Darren in the studio, and he brought his guitar to boot. Darren has had a huge influence on my personal Recovery, specifically, I credit him with teaching me to hug, and to truly listen. My body gets that all natural kundalini back tingle up through my neck every time I'm around him. Words fall short when I think of how much Darren means to me, so have a listen instead!

Episode 005 Dan's Musings
Recorded Apr 2, 2019
On a "Juiceday" Morning, I decided to go solo for a bit, mix things up, create some variety.
I've heard it said that there are two thing we hate more than any others: one is "Change", and the other is "The way things are", I like a routine in my life, but I also know that I really only grow when I'm outside of my comfort zone, going solo is outside my comfort zone.

Episode 113 Krista B's Story NEW 3/31/2019
Recorded Mar 24, 2019
Krista was born in Alaska, traveled around the country and eventually landed in Louisville KY, the disease took away an NCAA division 1 swimming scholarship, today, recovery has restored her love for the water and she now swims ultra distance competitions in open water, her's is another story of families restored, and I'm Juiced to see where her journey goes from here.
One thing I'm really enjoying is the gift of friendship I'm receiving through the podcast, I'm "getting to" hear these amazing stories first hand, my personal miracle list continues to grow, as I witness these other glorious souls recover, and add to their lists
- Enjoy Krista's Story!

Episode 112 Jesse S's Story NEW 3/24/2019
Recorded Mar 17, 2019
My dear friend Jesse brought his guitar, played some songs, and told his story to date. Jesse has held a special place in my heart from our first meeting some four years ago, and although his path is not necessarily one I would suggest, he is on fire today - as we say "it takes what it takes".

Jesse has helped to produce the music you hear around the recent podcasts, he's a heck of a musician himself, a great singer, and you can hear him play during the intro of this episode, with a full song on the tail end - Enjoy!

Episode 111 Robin's Story
Recorded Feb 27, 2019
Someone very special to me told her story today, full disclosure: Robin and I are a couple and I was somewhat apprehensive about hearing her story at first but at the same time super interested. I am honored that she allowed me this opportunity to participate in my recovery by sharing her story to the Spiritual Underground Podcast listeners.
I simply can't imagine being more "equally yoked" than with someone who also practices Twelve Step Principles. We taped this at her home, it was another remote Spiritual Underground Podcast. I love the DTM Studios, but taping elsewhere has an adventure aspect.
Thank you sweetheart, I'm a Loving You!

Episode 110 Tony's Story
Recorded Feb 17, 2019
Tony dropped by on a Sunday afternoon to share his experience, strength and hope. This is the very first time Tony has talked publicly and you are going to experience the emotional journey that brought him to this current state of recovered, both in mind and in body.

Episode 109 Branden's Story Part 2
Recorded Feb 7, 2019
Branden, the original "Juiceman", paid a second visit to the podcast to pick up where he left off at the magical 1 year mark, it's a story of families reconnecting, as happens so often on the Recovery path.

Episode 005 - TSSR The Gathering
Recorded Feb 23, 2019
Christopher Cone, the author of "Twelve Step Spiritual Recovery, How to Reclaim Your Original Self/Soul" was in the studio this morning to share some juice and discuss the release of the book.
We talked about how the book idea started, what the movement is all about, and the path forward. Shane made a guest appearance to share his experience to date and we plain ole had a general Juicefest as we gear up for what the future holds.

Episode 108 - Nick's Story
Recorded Feb 16, 2019
The Twelve Steps caught him just in the “Nickoftime”!!
You have heard him on all the round table discussions, and today Nick joined the podcast to tell his story of recovery.
Also, some exciting news is afoot, the discussion turned to the upcoming release of a ground breaking book, “Twelve Step Spiritual Recovery, How to Reclaim Your Original Self/Soul” by Christopher Cone, soon to be available on Amazon.

Episode 004 - Bucket-O-Topics Roundtable
Recorded Feb 2, 2019
Nick, Shane, Jesse, and Erikk blasted into the studio with loads of Juice to share, the Bucket-O-Topics was broke out on the podcast, topics ranged from Spreading the Joy in Recovery, to letting folks know the real me, to what the years ahead might bring, plus a discussion on Step 6.

Episode 107 - Branden's Story Part 1
Recorded Jan 19, 2019
Branden, the original "Juiceman", paid a visit to the podcast, among other things, he tells the origin of the word "Juice", a word that would become a Spiritual Underground legend. His story covers up to his first year of recovery, so expect a part 2 soon.

Episode 106 - Sherri's Story
Recorded Jan 27, 2019
The Podcast traveled down to Cape Coral Florida and added Sherri's story to the library, Sherri is originally from Virginia and now calls Florida home - her story is one of ups and downs until she made the decision to fully concede - Service is instrumental in her life and carrying the message to the prison is the next mission in her journey.

Episode 105 - Erikk's Story
Recorded Jan 17, 2019
Erikk came to the studio at DTM Enterprises to chat for a while. This is not to take away from any previous guests at any level, mostly just getting more comfortable typing here - But Erikk is a guy I could sit and listen to for hours - expect to hear more from him in the future.

Episode 104 - Shane's Story
Recorded Jan 13, 2019
Shane visits the studio to share his journey to date, and we hint around at some things to come.

Episode 103 - Quentin's Story
Recorded Oct 31, 2018
Quentin spends some time in the studio to tell us his story.

Episode 102 - Dan's Miracles
Recorded Oct 22, 2018
Dan talks about some of the miracles that he has experienced throughout his time in recovery, beginning with some "before" stories.

Episode 101 - Travis's Story
Recorded Oct 21, 2018
Travis takes the seat to tell us his story.

Episode 100 - Chase's Story
Recorded Oct 17, 2018
Chase sits down at the table to tell us his story.

Episode 003 - Deer Camp
Recorded Dec 7, 2018
Five of us travel to a cabin in the Hoosier National Forest for fellowship, to hunt deer, eat great food, and we took an evening to sit around the table and discuss life in recovery.

Episode 002 - Step 1
Recorded Oct 10, 2018
In this second episode, we toss around the powerlessness, unmanageability, surrender, and all the basic tenets of a step one experience.

Episode 001 - Why?
Recorded Oct 4, 2018
A few of us sit down for the very first time, to discuss why we want to do this, and what we hope will happen by sending this out to the universe.

We had bounced the idea around in a chat group, then met for coffee to further discuss, that culminated in this first recording.

Spiritual underground podcast

The magnificent buck taken from the Fargo Hunt Club