Rat Race Stories of Addiction and Recovery

#025 - In this episode, we delve into our host's recent three-week trip to London, England, for his sister's wedding. From navigating the unfamiliar streets of London and experiencing the Euro 2024 buzz to exploring the streets of London. The episode rounds off with updates on his family's activities, the excitement for an upcoming trip to Winnipeg, and reflections on an unfortunate incident on Highway 401.

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#024 - A dive into a shocking incident involving a runner in Ontario who drove the wrong way on Highway 401, leading to a tragic collision and several deaths. We discuss the dangerous police chase, the criminal charges against the suspect, and personal reflections on the incident. Additionally, the conversation shifts to the importance of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings on cruise ships, upcoming travel plans, and various communi...

#023 - They share stories of managing their day-to-day, the struggle with triggers, and the importance of a supportive environment. Touching on their interests and mundane activities, like bike repairs and spring cleaning, emphasizing how these activities impact their journey. The dialogue captures the complexity of navigating being off the booze amidst life's chaos, interspersed with moments of humor and insights on creating ...

#022 - Two friends reconnect and share their experiences with addiction, recovery, and the ups and downs of their journeys since leaving treatment. They discuss the importance of support systems, challenges in staying sober, and strategies they've employed to maintain their sobriety. Amidst personal stories, they touch on family history, the impact of generational issues, and the significance of having a strong sponsor while n...

#021 - 'A Sobering Story,' a documentary that sheds light on the addiction crisis in Thunder Bay. They mention the recent premiere of the film, its positive reception, and anticipate interviewing the creators, referred to as the 'Two Ryans.' The hosts explore the documentary's impact, its focus on local stories of addiction, and the broader implications for communities across Canada. They express hope that ...

#020 - Leona shares her journey from a troubled youth in a remote First Nations community to a transformative path of recovery and self-discovery. Experiencing childhood trauma, battling addictions, and finding sobriety, Leona's story is one of resilience and empowerment. Through rekindling friendships, reconnecting with her cultural roots, and embracing the support of community resources, she emerges as a beacon of hope, shar...

#019 - Focusing on the one-year anniversary of Howl at the Moon, a sober cafe in Thunder Bay, Ontario. They reflect on the journey of establishing the cafe, the community support it has received, and its role in aiding those in recovery from addiction. Jody shares personal experiences with addiction and recovery, emphasising the cafe's impact on the community and his plans for future programming, including a new initiative cal...

#018 - Delving into the journey and impact of a dedicated sober safe space, 'Howl at the Moon', highlighting its first anniversary and the community's role in supporting individuals in recovery. The hosts discuss the genesis of the idea, share personal stories, and address the significance of creating an inclusive environment for healing. Offering a variety of programs, this episode captures the essence of what it me...

#017 - The critical role of Indigenous spirituality and cultural traditions in healing from addiction and trauma. It highlights Clarence Fisher's personal recovery journey and his work with others facing similar challenges. The conversation delves into the impacts of historical traumas, such as colonialism and residential schools, on Indigenous communities' current struggles, particularly with addiction in Thunder Bay. Em...

#016 - Discuss the detrimental effects of stigma, and the desperate need for better resources and infrastructure for recovery and detox programs. They touch on personal experiences and observations about addiction being a disorder rather than a lifestyle choice, highlighting how it often stems from unresolved trauma. Conversations cover the challenges faced by individuals seeking help, such as the shortage of detox beds in Thunder ...

#015 - Various supportive programs operational in Howl at the Moon Cafe, located in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The cafe functions as a recovery-friendly community center, offering group supports for those impacted by addiction. It hosts various groups such as the healing circle, Women and the Good Life Support Group, and other programs based on the AA model but designed by an elderly indigenous person. The discussion also iterates a fut...

#014 - Hosts open up about their personal struggles with addiction and alcohol and the implications it had on their relationships. They traverse their journey from the highs and lows of substance misuse to their ultimate decision to seek help and live a sober life. They also discuss the critical challenges faced by couples where one or both partners are struggling with addiction. Shedding light on their experiences, they highlight ...

#013 - Discussion on experiences with loss and approaches to cope with it, touching on personal anecdotes and revelations. As they discuss previous addictions, the two recognize the importance of healthy outlets and efforts to support the process of grieving. They highlight the significance of reaching out to professional help through grief and loss seminars, and the possible introduction of such a program at 'Howl at the Moon...

#012 - In this conversation, the speakers discuss the prevalent drinking culture in sporting events, particularly in NFL games and tailgate parties. They share personal experiences, with one of them examining events from a sober perspective leading to a realization of how alcohol often overshadows the enjoyment of the game. They also talk about a study by the University of Minnesota which reveals that an estimated 5,000 people leav...

#011 - AZ's (Azreer Gill) story from social anxiety and communication difficulties, to the consequent rehab experience and the choice of abstinence. Listen to the experience shared by host AZ which took him from small-town British Columbia, to Toronto and the Canadian Arctic. This episode emphasizes the importance of sharing personal stories as part of the healing process, and the personal growth and capacities discovered thro...

#010 - The societal pressures surrounding alcohol consumption. They explore how alcohol is dramatically linked to social situations, and the issues this causes for those struggling with addiction. The hosts share their personal experiences and views on the challenges faced by different cultural communities, placing emphasis on available support and coping mechanisms. The discussion leads to the positive aspects of sobriety, such as...