The Begin Again Podcast

In this powerful episode, host Gary Menkes welcomes Alecia Spendlove, a resilient individual who has turned her personal struggles into a source of inspiration for others. 

Alecia, a commercial actress turned inspirational speaker, shares her compelling journey from battling alcoholism and low self-esteem to overcoming ovarian cancer. 

She delves into her transformative experiences with EMDR and 12-step programs, and how meditation h...

In this special episode of The Begin Again Podcast, we revisit some of the most powerful moments from our incredible guests, focusing on the crucial theme of asking for help. Throughout our journey, we've been honored to share stories of resilience, transformation, and the unyielding strength of the human spirit. This compilation episode highlights the profound impact that seeking support can have on one's path to recover...

In this gripping episode, Gary Menkes delves into the courageous journey of Jacob Scholze, from battling alcohol addiction to emerging as a beacon of hope. 

Jacob opens up about his struggle with liver cirrhosis, the impact of genetics on addiction, and the power of self-awareness. He candidly shares how he spiraled into dependency, and how the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated his drinking habits, leading to severe health...

 🎙️In this powerful episode, host Gary Menkes welcomes Amanda Lockyer, a dedicated addiction coach and host of the 'Addiction Makes Three' podcast. 

Amanda opens up about her personal journey, beginning with her partner's battle with addiction and how it led to her transformation into a wellness coach. She candidly discusses the emotional turmoil, societal stigma, and the importance of supportive surroundings in over...

In this riveting episode, Gary Menkes sits down with MJ Gottlieb, the co-founder and CEO of Loosid, a transformative app providing a sober social network and dating platform. MJ opens up about his personal journey, marked by a fear-filled childhood, substance abuse struggles, and his path to sobriety that began on March 21st, 2012. With raw honesty, he delves into his experiences with trauma, anger, and addiction, revealing how the...

In this riveting episode, join Gary Menkes as he sits down with Michelle Curial, an inspiring woman who has battled and overcome substance addiction. 

Michelle bravely shares her journey from a strict religious upbringing, through her struggle with drugs, alcohol, and prescription medications, to her triumphant recovery. She vividly recounts her rebellious teenage years, her chase for fame in Los Angeles, and her descent into the gr...

PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

Discover the transformative journey of ultra-marathon runner Kenny Dunn in this episode of the Begin Again podcast with host Gary Menkes. 

From struggling with obesity and secretive drinking to achieving sobriety, Kenny's story is one of resilience and determination. He openly discusses his battle with alcoholism, his experiences with a 12-step recovery program, and his path to becoming a better father. 

Witn...

PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

In this riveting episode, Gary Menkes invites profound recovery advocate, Brian Deagan, for an enlightening discussion on battling addiction. Brian, a survivor of alcoholism, delves into his personal journey to recovery, sharing his unique blend of science, spirituality, and breathwork. 

He discusses the transformative power of 12-step programs and narrative therapy, providing a deeper understanding of the neurol...

PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

In this deeply moving The Begin Again podcast episode, Flindt Anderson and Jason LaChance engage in an open and heartfelt conversation about their personal journeys through addiction and recovery. 

Both share their experiences, from their darkest moments to their transformative periods of clarity that led them to a life of service and purpose. They discuss the alarming rise of fentanyl use, the lack of interventi...

In this deeply moving The Begin Again podcast episode, Tracy Viola, a resilient survivor and advocate for sobriety, shares her personal journey from addiction to recovery. 

She discusses the profound impact the 12-step program has had on her life, the unwavering bonds formed with her 'recovery friends', and the transformative power of sobriety. 

Tracy candidly reveals her family history with alcoholism, her own struggles wi...

PODCAST DESCRIPTION:

In this powerful episode, Gary Menkes welcomes special guest, Mike Diamond, a renowned author, TV personality, and sobriety advocate. Mike opens up about his personal journey from addiction to sobriety, a transformative shift that took him from the gritty streets of Perth, Australia to the glitzy world of New York's music and acting industries. 
With raw honesty, Mike shares his experiences from his day...

In this special roundup episode, host Gary Menkes revisits the most impactful moments from the season, featuring 42 inspiring guests sharing their unique recovery stories. From Derrick Machaud's advice on avoiding temptation to Luke Worsfold's take on embracing accountability, this episode is packed with wisdom and courage. Hear about Michael Quiqley’s Sober Shares Podcast and powerful testimonies like Dan Jett’s transfor...

In this riveting episode, Gary Menkes delves into an intimate conversation with Paul Summers Jr. about his harrowing journey from addiction to sobriety. 

Seventeen years ago, Paul's life was spiraling out of control, with suicidal thoughts, a failing marriage, and a powerful addiction. His remarkable transformation from a man on the brink of despair to a successful builder, author, and beacon of hope is a testament to resilienc...

In this gripping episode, Flindt Andersen, a recovered addict turned advocate, shares his raw and harrowing journey from severe opiate addiction to sobriety. He uncovers the harsh realities of addiction, the devastating impact on health, family, and society, and the critical need for effective solutions. Drawing from his personal battles with alcoholism, drug addiction, and a life-changing open-heart surgery, Flindt paints a vivid ...

In this captivating podcast episode, we delve into the unexpected journey of Jeanine Coulter as she shares her personal and harrowing experience with addiction. Breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions, Jeanine highlights the importance of understanding that addiction can affect anyone, regardless of their upbringing or background.

Jeanine takes us through her past, reflecting on her belief that addiction is a personal...

In this powerful and inspiring The Begin Again podcast episode, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Jen Hirst, a woman who triumphed over addiction and transformed her life in unimaginable ways. 

Jen opens up about her personal struggle with addiction, sharing the pivotal moments that led her down a destructive path and the harrowing consequences it had on her life. From hiding her struggles for years due to fear of...

In this captivating podcast episode, we explore the life of Dan Jett, a remarkable individual who has triumphed over addiction with raw honesty and vulnerability. 

Dan shares his tumultuous childhood in Detroit, shaped by the prevalence of alcoholism, offering insights into the lack of support he faced before social media's era. 

His journey includes battling addiction through martial arts and bodybuilding, f...

In this episode, we sit down with Dana White-Guerrie, a woman who has overcome addiction and trauma to become a strong advocate for recovery and sobriety. Dana shares her personal journey with addiction and the challenges she faced, including the concept of bonding through trauma and the impact it had on her identity and relationships. She also discusses the importance of focusing on hope and positivity in recovery, rather than dwe...

In this episode, host Gary Menkes sits down with Gigi Langer, a renowned author, speaker, and expert in the field of addiction recovery. Gigi shares her personal journey of overcoming childhood trauma and finding self-worth through therapy and a higher power. She also opens up about her struggles with alcoholism and how she found recovery through therapy and 12-step meetings. 

Throughout the conversation, Gigi shares power...