Real Recovery Talk

Latest Episodes:

548: Boundaries Don't Work – Yes, They Do… If You Do This Jul 11, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one srtuggling with addiction? https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

In this episode, Ben and I are talking about something that came up during our Family Reconnect call that really stuck with us… setting boundaries for yourself. A lot of times, families are focused on setting rules for the addict — but we don't stop to ask: What about me? What am I doing to protect my own peace and sanity?

Here's what we cover: Why boundaries only work when you stick to them What it really means to "love someone from afar" Why helping too much might be hurting How addiction affects the entire family, especially siblings And why failing at boundaries in the past might actually help you get it right now If you're tired of the chaos and feel like you're doing all the work while they keep getting high — this one's for you.

👉 Check out the Family Reconnect Program here: https://realrecoverytalk.com/frc

Questions? Hit us up: info@realrecoverytalk.com

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

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RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

547: Big Book Study: How It Works Part III Jul 09, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

In today's episode, Erik takes us through How It Works from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous Part III

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

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Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/

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RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

546: The Truth About Weed: Why It's Not as Safe as You Think Jul 06, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

In this episode, Tom, Ben, and Dr. Tamberi talk about why weed (marijuana) is not as harmless as many people say it is—especially for young people. A lot of big influencers and celebrities are telling kids that weed is totally safe, but we don't agree.

We've seen many people come into treatment because of weed, and it's not just "no big deal." Some struggle with serious anxiety, depression, and even scary thoughts after using weed a lot.

We talk about real stories, the science behind how weed affects the brain, and why it's important to know the truth. If you're a parent, a teen, or just someone trying to understand what's really going on, this episode is for you.

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

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RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

545: Sage FINALLY got sober when....Story of inspiration and hope Jul 04, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

In this powerful and emotional episode, we sit down with Sage, who shares her journey of trying everything to get clean and sober — from treatment centers across the country to an experience in Mexico involving ibogaine. Despite her desperate efforts, nothing seemed to work. Sage opens up about the moment she cried out to God, asking Him to just let her die — and how that moment of surrender led to real, lasting change. This episode is filled with hope, faith, and raw truth — a must-listen for anyone who has a loved one struggling with addiction.

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

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Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides

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Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/

RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

544: Big Book Study: How It Works: Part 2 Jul 02, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

In today's episode, Erik takes us through the second half of How It Works from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

Join our FREE FB Support group!: https://www.facebook.com/groups/realrecoverytalk

Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides

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RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

543: I Shouldn't Be Alive... 8 Years Sober: Destiny's Story Jun 29, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

In this episode, we sit down with our friend Destiny, who just celebrated eight years of continuous sobriety! Destiny shares her incredible journey — from the depths of addiction to a life filled with purpose, hope, and service. We talk about what it really takes to stay sober long-term, how her mindset has evolved over the years, and the ways she continues to grow in her recovery. Whether you're brand new to sobriety or years into the journey, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

Join our FREE FB Support group!: https://www.facebook.com/groups/realrecoverytalk

Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides

Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

542: Stop Doubting Yourself: Pastor Todd Mullins: Don't Let Doubt Take You Out Jun 27, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

DONT LET DOUBT TAKE YOU OUT: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Let-Doubt-Take-You/dp/1636414346

Christ Fellowship: https://www.christfellowship.church/

In this episode, I'm joined by Ryan Laabs and Pastor Todd Mullins, lead pastor of Christ Fellowship Church here in South Florida. Pastor Todd shares the story behind his new book Don't Let Doubt Take You Out - and how doubt shows up in our addictions, recovery journeys, and everyday life.

We all opened up about our own experiences with self-doubt: how it creeps in, how it can pull us off track, and what it takes to break through it. Whether you're new to sobriety, a family member trying to support a loved one, or simply someone battling your own inner doubt, this conversation will inspire you to keep moving forward.

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

Join our FREE FB Support group!: https://www.facebook.com/groups/realrecoverytalk

Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides

Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/

Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/

RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

541: Big Book Study: How It Works Part 1 Jun 25, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

In today's episode, Erik takes us through the first half of How It Works from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. This is one of the most read and quoted sections in all of AA — but do people really understand what it's saying? Erik breaks it down line by line, shares how it applied to his own recovery, and calls out some common ways people misinterpret this chapter. If you've ever wondered why "rigorous honesty" is so emphasized — or if you've gotten hung up on words like "spiritual awakening" — this episode will give you a deeper understanding. Part 2 coming soon!

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

Join our FREE FB Support group!: https://www.facebook.com/groups/realrecoverytalk

Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides

Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/

Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/

RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

540: Mental Health Medications: Do They Really Work? Jun 22, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

In this episode, Tom, Ben, and Dr. Tamanini sit down for a real conversation about antidepressants. We break down common questions like: Do they really work? Should people in sobriety take them? Are they overprescribed?

Dr. Tambini brings her clinical experience to the table, and we talk openly about what we've seen in the addiction and recovery world when it comes to these medications. Whether you've taken antidepressants yourself, know someone who has, or are just curious about their role in mental health and sobriety—this is an honest conversation you won't want to miss.

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

Join our FREE FB Support group!: https://www.facebook.com/groups/realrecoverytalk

Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides

Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

539: Why Men's Mental Health Still Gets Ignored; AA is 90 YEARS OLD Jun 20, 2025

Show notes

Do you have a family member/loved one who struggles with addiction?: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/frc

Treatment Prep Guide: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/treatmentprep

SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/partners-family-and-friends/rrt

Join our Big Book Study! https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/bigbookstudy

Join our FREE FB Support group!: https://www.facebook.com/groups/realrecoverytalk

Download our free guides!: https://www.realrecoverytalk.com/guides

Tom IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalktom/ Ben IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkben/ RRT IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrecoverytalkpodcast/

In this episode of Real Recovery Talk, Tom Conrad and Benjamin B. discuss the impactful history and personal influence of Alcoholics Anonymous, the significance of Men's Mental Health Month, and their own experiences with these topics.

These discussions also touch on the Family Reconnect program and their personal lives, including a humorous segment on pet care challenges.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode

00:04 Importance of Alcoholics Anonymous

00:18 Men's Mental Health Month

00:29 Personal Stories and Experiences

00:50 Family Reconnect Program Overview

01:20 Gratitude and Viewer Engagement

01:40 Impact of the Family Reconnect Program

02:34 Special Features of the Family Reconnect Program

07:37 Challenges in Helping Others

15:03 Celebrating 90 Years of Alcoholics Anonymous

15:50 Big Book Insights