Discover the profound insights of Dr. Frederic Luskin, renowned psychologist and director of the Stanford Forgiveness Project, as he unpacks the powerful role forgiveness plays in our lives. Alongside him, former Episcopal priest, Lyndon Harris shares his compelling journey of healing after the 9/11 tragedy, illustrating the transformative power of forgiveness. Together, they share personal narratives and professional insights that highlight forgiveness as a vital skill for mental and emotional well-being. Our conversation dives deep into the complex dynamics between forgiveness and survival. We explore how anger can initially serve as a source of empowerment but often becomes a restrictive force that holds us back. By recognizing forgiveness as a skill that can be taught and honed over time, supported by extensive research, we reveal how it can shift individuals from a victim mindset to a more empowered life story. This episode sheds light on how forgiveness, though not a moral directive, is an essential component of self-care that can be developed to improve our capacity for compassion and authentic living. In this episode, you will hear: Exploration of forgiveness as a vital skill for mental and emotional well-being Discussion on the complex relationship between anger, empowerment, and forgiveness Emphasis on forgiveness as a teachable skill, supported by academic research The role of gratitude and self-forgiveness in the healing process Practical tools and advice for overcoming resentment and embracing compassion Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: The Art of Forgiveness- Frederic Luskin, Ph.D The Forgive for Good Recovery Workbook TedTalk - Lyndon Harris NovusMindfulLife.com Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever thought, "I've tried recovery before and failed—why try again?" or "This is just who I am"? These beliefs might be the biggest barrier to lasting recovery.   In this solo episode, licensed therapist Duane Osterlind shares how a growth mindset can transform your recovery journey. Drawing from Dr. Carol Dweck's research, Duane explains how viewing your abilities and capacity for recovery as things that can grow and change (rather than fixed traits) makes all the difference.   Recovery is rarely a straight path. For many, it's a series of hopeful starts followed by setbacks. Each relapse can make doubt grow louder: "Maybe I'm not strong enough," or "Maybe I'll always be this way." These thoughts aren't just discouraging—they actively harm recovery.   When we believe change isn’t possible, we avoid challenges, give up easily, and see effort as pointless. This mindset isn’t just psychological—it impacts physical health, increases stress, and perpetuates addiction.   But there is another way. A growth mindset recognizes that your brain is neuroplastic—able to form new pathways throughout life. The same neuroplasticity that allowed addiction to take hold can help you build healthier habits. Through this lens, relapse becomes valuable data, not failure, offering insights about triggers and strategies for meaningful change.   Duane shares practical steps to build this mindset, like becoming aware of your self-talk, reframing challenges, embracing "the power of yet," and celebrating effort over outcomes. Recovery becomes about resilience and growth, not perfection.   Ready to change your approach? Download the free growth mindset worksheet in the show notes. Download The Worksheet Join The Addicted Mind Plus Community for more support. Join The Community Key Topics: The difference between fixed mindset and growth mindset in recovery How neuroplasticity makes lasting change possible in addiction Viewing relapses as learning opportunities rather than failures Practical techniques to develop a growth mindset in recovery The importance of celebrating effort over perfect outcomes How seeking feedback strengthens your recovery journey Finding inspiration in others who have successfully changed Episode Timestamps: [00:00:54] Introduction to growth mindset in addiction recovery  [00:04:21] The research behind mindset theory and Dr. Carol Dweck's work  [00:07:00] Understanding brain neuroplasticity in addiction and recovery  [00:09:39] Actionable steps to develop a growth mindset in recovery  [00:12:31] The power of adding "yet" to negative self-statements  [00:14:05] The importance of seeking constructive feedback  [00:16:00] Closing thoughts: "Becoming is better than being" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

High-functioning codependency takes center stage as we welcome licensed psychotherapist and boundary expert Terri Cole to the Addicted Mind podcast. With a unique journey from a talent agent to a psychotherapist, Terri shares her personal experiences and insights from her book, "Too Much: A Guide to Breaking the Cycle of High-Functioning Codependency." We dive into the world of individuals who seem to manage life with ease yet secretly bear the weight of excessive responsibilities. Terri provides valuable strategies to help listeners recognize and break free from these patterns, offering a path towards healthier relationships and personal well-being. The episode also shines a light on the connection between highly sensitive people and high-functioning codependency. Terri and I explore the challenges of managing the instinct to control others' emotions and the importance of setting healthy boundaries. Personal anecdotes bring these discussions to life, including the struggle to support a loved one while respecting their autonomy. By acknowledging the discomfort of letting go, listeners can learn to empower others to be the heroes of their own stories, fostering genuine connection and intimacy. In this episode, you will hear: High-functioning codependency and its hidden struggles explored with Terri Cole Transition from talent agent to psychotherapist; insights from Terri's book "Too Much" Connection between highly sensitive people and high-functioning codependency Strategies for setting boundaries and fostering healthier relationships Embracing vulnerability and authenticity as part of recovery Importance of self-discovery and courage to disappoint for personal growth Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: NovusMindfulLife.com Instagram: Terri Cole (@terricole) Book: Too Much https://www.terricole.com/ Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Imagine this: You're in the middle of a stressful moment. Your heart races, shame creeps in, and that familiar voice in your head starts up again: "I'm a failure. I'll never change." What if you could stop this spiral with just a few powerful words? In this episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric explore how creating a personal positive mantra can transform your recovery journey. These simple phrases aren't just feel-good statements—they're powerful tools backed by science that can literally rewire your brain. Our hosts break down how negative automatic thoughts become hardwired through repetition, creating harmful cycles that feel impossible to escape. But there's hope! Using the concept of neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to form new connections—they explain how intentionally shifting these thoughts with personal mantras can change how you feel and respond to stress, shame, and cravings. The episode offers a practical three-step process to create your own personal mantra: identify your automatic negative thoughts, challenge them with more realistic perspectives, and craft a simple, memorable mantra you can use in tough moments. Examples like "This feeling will pass" and "I am stronger than this moment" show how these short phrases can become powerful anchors when you need them most. Duane and Eric emphasize that recovery isn't something we do alone—it's a journey we take together. They share how these mantras, when practiced regularly, become stronger with each use—like doing one rep at the gym. Whether you're new to recovery or looking to strengthen your journey, this episode provides a simple yet powerful tool to help you navigate stress, regulate emotions, and stay grounded when you need it most. Rewire Your Brain: The Power of Personal Mantras for Recovery Worksheet Join The TAM+ Community >> Here Key Topics The science behind automatic negative thoughts and how they become hardwired in our brains How neuroplasticity allows us to create new thought patterns through intentional practice Three-step process to create your personal coping mantra Why writing down negative thoughts is crucial to identifying them The importance of personalizing mantras to make them more effective How to practice and implement your mantra in daily life Why community support enhances recovery alongside personal coping skills Timestamp [00:01:08] Introduction to personal coping mantras and their power in stressful moments [00:03:54] The importance of community in recovery journeys  [00:05:00] Understanding how automatic negative thoughts shape our emotions and behaviors  [00:06:14] The science and history behind mantras in psychological practice [00:09:00] Step 1: Identifying your automatic negative thoughts  [00:11:58] Step 2 & 3: Challenging negative thoughts and creating positive mantras  [00:16:09] Resources available for listeners to implement these practices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Unlock the secret to healing from betrayal as Eddie Caparucci, a seasoned counselor, guides us through the transformative power of inner child work. Gain insights from Eddie as he unravels the intricate tapestry of trauma, betrayal, and recovery. Eddie’s latest book offers a lifeline to those grappling with the pain of infidelity, drawing connections between unresolved childhood wounds and present-day struggles. Together with his wife, Teri, they illuminate a path towards reclaiming one's sense of self and emotional resilience. Join us as we explore the profound impact of childhood experiences on our responses to betrayal. Eddie shares his expertise on identifying core emotional triggers and how these can magnify the hurt of infidelity. By acknowledging the inner child, betrayed partners can begin the journey of healing and learn to separate raw emotions from rational thoughts. With compassion and understanding, this episode shines a light on the complex journey of recovery, empowering listeners to manage emotional distress more effectively. In this episode, you will hear: Eddie Capparucci discusses healing from betrayal using inner child work, linking unresolved childhood trauma to current emotional issues. Exploration of betrayal and trauma intersection, offering insights on separating emotions from thoughts for recovery. Strategies for finding inner strength and resilience after betrayal, focusing on self-empowerment and understanding pain. The importance of community support and therapy for managing distress and rebuilding trust. Discussion on identifying emotional triggers and addressing past wounds for recovery and better relationship decisions. Insights on maintaining healthy relationships by understanding childhood impact on adult emotions and behavior. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: https://abundantlifecounselingga.com/ NovusMindfulLife.com Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What drives you forward when recovery gets tough? In this powerful follow-up to their episode on values, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive into the concept of "meaning making" – the essential fuel that powers your journey toward your most important goals. Have you ever achieved something you thought would make you happy, only to feel empty afterward? Or felt stuck in life despite doing everything "right"? This episode explores why so many people – even successful ones – struggle with feeling unfulfilled and disconnected from what truly matters to them. Using the framework developed by Thomas Mara, the hosts break down how meaning isn't something external that happens to you – it's something you actively create. If values are your North Star showing you direction, meaning is the engine that moves your boat forward. Duane and Eric explain how distorted meaning-making contributes to anxiety disorders, depression, addiction, and eating disorders – and how reconnecting with authentic meaning can transform recovery. They introduce the concept of "supreme concerns" – the things that matter most to you – and provide practical strategies for identifying them and building your daily life around them. Whether you're struggling with addiction, mental health challenges, or simply feeling disconnected from purpose, this episode offers a roadmap for creating a more authentic, fulfilling life aligned with what truly matters to you. The hosts remind us that meaning-making isn't just a nice addition to recovery – it's essential for building resilience against life's challenges and creating genuine happiness. Don't miss the downloadable worksheet mentioned in the show notes to help you identify your own supreme concerns and start creating more meaning in your life today Download the Worksheet Key Topics • The relationship between values and meaning in recovery  • Understanding meaning as a perspective rather than inherent in objects  • How distorted meaning contributes to mental health disorders  • The concept of "supreme concerns" as guideposts for meaningful living  • Practical strategies for embedding meaning into everyday life  • Overcoming obstacles to meaning making like fear and powerlessness  • How alignment with meaning creates resilience and authentic relationships Timestamp [00:01:30] Eric's analogy: Values as North Star, meaning as the motor  [00:03:00] Defining meaning and why it's personal to each individual  [00:05:49] How anxiety and depression distort meaning  [00:07:52] The challenge of misalignment even in successful people  [00:09:13] Exploring the concept of "supreme concerns"  [00:11:43] Overcoming obstacles to meaning making  [00:14:00] How meaning making enhances recovery and relationships Follow and Review: We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Growing up amidst the chaos of a turbulent family life in Detroit, Dwayne Barnes discovered a lifeline in the form of creative expression. His journey from a tumultuous childhood to the bright lights of Hollywood is nothing short of remarkable. During our conversation, Dwayne opens up about how acting became his sanctuary, a place where he could channel the dysfunction of his upbringing into something beautiful and transformative. His debut book, "Their Eyes Were Never on Me," is a raw exploration of self-addiction and limiting beliefs, offering a beacon of hope for those eager to break free from their own chains. Our discussion with Dwayne shines a light on the intricate balance between family challenges and career aspirations. He shares candid reflections on the sacrifices made by loved ones, including a grandmother's unwavering support amidst addiction struggles. Navigating the pressure of Hollywood, Dwayne faced the daunting task of starring in roles that eerily mirrored his own life’s trials. Despite being surrounded by the glamor and allure of fame, he unveils the real-life personal battles and healing processes that unfolded behind the scenes, including the realization of personal issues, obstacles in therapy, and the unyielding quest for resilience. In this episode, you will hear: Dwayne Barnes' transformative journey from a turbulent childhood in Detroit to success in Hollywood Acting as a sanctuary; channeling his chaotic upbringing into creative expression Insights from his book "Their Eyes Were Never on Me," exploring self-addiction and breaking limiting beliefs The role of family dynamics and sacrifices, including the support of his grandmother, in his journey Navigating the pressures of fame while facing personal challenges and healing processes Embracing creativity and spirituality as tools for authentic growth and empowerment Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: http://www.authordwaynebarnes.com/ NovusMindfulLife.com Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or like you're living someone else's life? In this powerful episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive deep into how unclear values might be sabotaging your recovery and overall well-being. Like a rudder on a boat, your values guide you through life's challenges and decisions. Yet many people in recovery struggle because they haven't identified what truly matters to them. The hosts explore how living without clear values can lead to anxiety, depression, and that nagging feeling that something's missing. They share practical insights on how to discover your authentic values across different life areas - from relationships to career choices. Whether you're in recovery or simply seeking a more meaningful life, this episode offers concrete strategies for aligning your actions with what truly matters to you. Plus, listeners get access to a special worksheet to help them define their personal values and start making better decisions today. Download the worksheet: Building a Life & Recovery Guided by Your Values Worksheet Key Topics: The connection between undefined values and recovery struggles How misaligned values lead to anxiety, depression, and unfulfillment The importance of differentiating between personal values and "shoulds" from others How values change throughout different life stages and circumstances Using values as a decision-making tool in relationships and career choices The role of emotion regulation in living according to your values Practical strategies for defining values in different life domains Timestamps:  [00:01:14] Values as a rudder: The importance of guidance in life  [00:02:37] Why values need regular review and refinement  [00:04:31] How undefined values impact mental health and recovery  [00:06:00] Using values to make better decisions [00:09:35] Breaking down values into specific life categories  [00:11:18] Practical examples of applying values to relationships  [00:13:21] Access to free values worksheet and resources Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Follow and Review: We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Caitlin Morrison found herself facing the bittersweet task of continuing her brother Matthew Perry's legacy, she embraced it with a deep sense of purpose and resilience. On this episode of the Addicted Mind Podcast, Caitlin joins us to share her poignant journey of supporting a loved one through addiction and how it shaped her work at the Matthew Perry Foundation of Canada. Through her story, we unravel the layers of hope, frustration, and the powerful drive to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction. We explore the intricate world of addiction treatment, emphasizing the necessity for extended care and the brain's lengthy healing process. We challenge the misconceptions around addiction by advocating for a perspective that treats it as a chronic disease, akin to diabetes or heart disease. With insights from Caitlin's experiences and Matthew's courageous openness about his struggles, we highlight the importance of long-term support and the role of compassion in recovery. In this episode, you will hear: Caitlin Morrison's journey continuing her brother Matthew Perry's legacy in addiction support. The role of the Matthew Perry Foundation of Canada in advocating for long-term recovery. Addressing addiction as a chronic disease, similar to diabetes or heart disease. Importance of reducing stigma and embracing compassion in addiction recovery. The transformative impact of community-centric facilities like the Matthew Perry House in Ottawa. Matthew Perry's courageous openness about his struggles inspiring others to seek help. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources:  matthewperryfoundation.ca Instagram: @mpfcanada NovusMindfulLife.com Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever felt guilty for missing your addiction, even though you know it was destroying your life? You're not alone. In this powerful episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric explore the often-overlooked emotional journey of grieving your addiction during recovery. They dive deep into why letting go of addiction can feel like losing a best friend – even when that friend was toxic. Using Elizabeth Kubler-Ross's famous five stages of grief as a framework, they explain why these feelings are completely normal and how to process them without shame. Whether you're in recovery yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers vital insights into the complex emotional landscape of addiction recovery and provides practical tools for moving forward. Learn why missing your addiction doesn't make you weak – it makes you human. Download The Worksheet Key Topics • The five stages of grief in addiction recovery: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance • Why missing your addiction is a normal part of recovery • Understanding what you're really grieving (substance, rituals, identity) • How to process grief and loss in recovery without shame • The importance of community support during the grieving process • Practical strategies for moving through grief in recovery • Tools and resources for processing addiction-related grief Timestamps [00:01:06] Introduction to loss and grief in recovery [00:04:00] Elizabeth Kubler-Ross's five stages of grief explained [00:09:54] The dangerous bargaining stage in recovery [00:12:00] Understanding the depression stage [00:15:12] What we're really grieving in recovery [00:18:35] Healthy ways to process addiction-related grief [00:20:33] Resources and support options available Follow and Review: We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: If you live in California and are looking for counseling or therapy please check out Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center NovusMindfulLife.com We want to hear from you. Leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind Disclaimer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.