The Addicted Mind Podcast

In this episode of The Addicted Mind Podcast, host Duane Osterlind speaks with actor, playwright, and recovery advocate Ned Van Zandt. Ned shares his life story—from an exotic childhood traveling the world to studying under Olympia Dukakis and working alongside high-profile actors and musicians in the 1970s. He candidly details his descent into hard drugs while living at New York's iconic Chelsea Hotel, his first 13-year stretch of surface-level sobriety, a sudden relapse that led to an arrest in Texas, and his eventual surrender to deep, service-driven recovery. Today, Ned is the managing director of a NYC sober li...

In this episode of The Addicted Mind, host Duane Osterlind speaks with orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. David Hanscom about his book, Calm Your Body, Heal Your Mind. They explore the deep physiological connection between chronic pain, anxiety, and addiction, outlining how regulating the nervous system can lead to genuine, lasting healing.

Key Takeaways

In this episode, host Duane Osterlind welcomes physician, trauma-informed coach, and author Dr. Frank Spinelli for an honest conversation about trauma, addiction, and the root causes of shame. Dr. Spinelli shares his personal story—from surviving childhood abuse in the Boy Scouts and helping law enforcement bring his abuser to justice, to experiencing a profound breakdown during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Together, Duane and Frank explore why addiction and shame stem from the same underlying wound, how to separate healthy guilt from toxic shame, and how reframing shame as a tool rather th...

The more we learn about the addicted mind, the more we uncover the deep connections between trauma, mental health disorders, and addiction. Today, we’re taking this exploration personal, guided by the experiences of Janet Whitney—a Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist, a mother, and a woman who has walked a challenging path alongside her daughter.

Meet Janet Whitney!

Janet Whitney is a Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist, but her journey extends far beyond her professional title. As a devoted mother, she has stood by her daughter, Hannah, through an unimaginably difficult battle with anorexia and...

In this episode, host Duane Osterlind sits down with David Sichel —entrepreneur, founder of Blue Shirt Media, and creator of Sober Transport. David shares his personal journey through addiction, multiple relapses, and long-term recovery, alongside how those experiences led him to innovate within the treatment ecosystem. The conversation explores how AI voice agents and text-based re-engagement tools can support overworked admission departments, capture lost leads, and ensure vulnerable individuals get immediate help during critical moments of sanity.

Key Discussion Highlights

1. David Sichel's Recovery Story

Download:   The 4 Essential Boundaries Worksheet

Are you constantly saying "yes" to everyone else's needs while your recovery takes a backseat? In this eye-opening episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, host Duane Osterlind and Eric Osterlind dive deep into the four fundamental types of boundaries that can revolutionize your recovery journey. Many people struggle with feeling selfish about setting boundaries, but as this episode reveals, boundaries aren't just about saying "no" – they're about creating a protective space where your healing can flourish.

The hosts break down each type of boundary – physi...

In this powerful episode of The Addictive Mind, host Duane Osterlind sits down with Christian Struthers to discuss his incredible journey from an ego-driven lifestyle of addiction to surviving a catastrophic, near-fatal car accident. Christian shares how a simple shift in perspective saved his mental health, how a German Shepherd named Millie helped him heal, and how he turned his trauma into a mission to give back.

Key Takeaways From This Episode

Download:   Self-Disclosure in Recovery Worksheet

Ever feel like you're carrying a secret that's too heavy to share? In this powerful episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind explore why sharing our authentic stories is crucial for lasting recovery. They dive into how keeping parts of ourselves hidden can actually deepen our isolation, while taking careful steps to share with trusted others can create profound healing. Drawing from the wisdom of pioneering psychotherapist Carl Rogers, they discuss how genuine connection and unconditional acceptance can transform recovery from a lonely journey into a shared path o...

In this episode of The Addictive Mind Podcast, host Duane Osterlind sits down with Dr. Brody Miller, a brain rehabilitation researcher and author of Brain Rescue. Dr. Brody shares his incredible journey from suffering a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and deep addiction to uncovering the life-changing power of Neuroplasticity.

They dive into the invisible link between brain trauma and substance abuse, how mindfulness physically rewires brain structures, and why massive life transformation actually starts with tiny, everyday "pinky moves."

Key Takeaways

The Addicted Mind Podcast: How a Little Becomes a Lot with Eric Zimmer

In this episode, Duane welcomes back Eric Zimmer, host of The One You Feed podcast, behavior coach, and author of the new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life.

Eric shares his profound journey from being a homeless heroin addict facing 50 years in prison to building a deeply meaningful life in long-term recovery. Together, Duane and Eric break down why massive life transformations don't happen overnight, but are instead built on thousands...

Download: Setting Healthy Boundaries Worksheet

Have you ever found yourself lying awake at night, replaying that moment when you said "yes" but every fiber of your being was screaming "no"? In this transformative episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive deep into one of recovery's most overlooked yet crucial components: setting healthy boundaries. 

They explore why boundaries aren't walls that keep people out, but rather fences that let the right things in. The hosts break down common misconceptions about boundaries, explaining why they're not se...

Welcome to the Addicted Mind Podcast. Today, we are delighted to bring you the wisdom and expertise of Dr. Adina Silvestri, EdD, LPC as she talks about her research on women seeking addiction treatment.Dr. Adina Silvestri is a licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, Virginia and the founder of Life Cycles Counseling. One of her specialties is helping women that are struggling with substance abuse recover from shame to find hope and healing.

In this podcast, she discussed how it is important to support women with a relational focused treatment approach as opposed to using a confrontational...

Download: Growth Mindset Worksheet

Ever felt like feedback in your recovery journey hits you like a punch to the gut? You're not alone. In this eye-opening episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive into why criticism can feel so painful during recovery and share game-changing strategies to transform those tough moments into opportunities for growth. Drawing from cutting-edge research in neuroscience and psychology, they explain how our early life experiences shape our sensitivity to criticism and why some people struggle more than others with feedback. But here's the good n...

In this episode, host Duane Osterlind sits down with Dr. Muhamad Aly Rifai, a dual-trained internist, psychiatrist, and addiction medicine specialist with over 25 years of clinical experience. Together, they dive deep into a rising public health concern—Kratom and 7-OH products—and unpack the complex neuroscience of how substance abuse alters brain architecture.

Dr. Rifai shares insights from his book, Hijacked Mind: How Addiction Rewires the Soul, exploring the reality of permanent brain changes, the sliver of hope offered by neuroplasticity, and how a holistic Biopsychosocial model can help individuals rebuild their lives.

About the Gues...

Ever wonder why two people can experience the exact same event but walk away with completely different emotions? 

In this fascinating episode of The Addicted Mind Podcast Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive into the science of optimism and reveal how our attention shapes our reality. They explain that optimism isn't about ignoring negative experiences or forcing positivity – it's about training our brain to process both positive and negative information in a balanced way. 

Through practical examples and evidence-based strategies, they show listeners how to break free from nega...

In this episode of The Addicted Mind, host Duane Osterlind sits down with author, veteran, and off-grid farmer Robert "Bob" Stark. Bob shares his powerful journey of overcoming an 18-year battle with substance abuse, transitioning back to civilian life after parachuting into Iraq during the initial invasion, and deconstructing the rigid constraints of hyper-masculinity.

Bob opens up about how he used writing to process unaddressed childhood and combat traumas, moving from anger and blame to deep internal healing. Today, Bob celebrates 11 years of clean and sober living on a 40-acre off-grid farm in the Kenai Peninsula of...

In this episode, Duane Osterlind talks with Nawal Roy, the visionary behind Holmusk, the world’s largest clinical data platform for mental health. After a successful career in finance, Nawal pivoted to healthcare, driven by the realization that mental health is one of the most complex, yet least quantified, areas of medicine.

They dive deep into how Holmusk has spent 11 years building a "scientific-grade" database of over 42 million patients, shifting mental health care away from "hunches and poetry" toward precision and evidence-based science.

Key Discussion Points

Download:  Shame Sabotaging Your Recovery Worksheet

Have you ever noticed that after a slip in recovery, your thoughts immediately jump to "I'm worthless" or "I'm never going to get better"? These aren't just random negative thoughts – they're part of a powerful emotion that might be secretly sabotaging your recovery journey. In this eye-opening episode of The Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive deep into the crucial difference between guilt and shame in addiction recovery. Through evidence-based research and practical experience, they reveal why many people mistakenly identify their shame as guilt, and how this mis...

This episode features a deep dive into the complex neurobiology of betrayal with Dr. Stan Tatkin, the developer of PACT (A Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy). Hosted by Duane Osterlind, the conversation explores why betrayal feels like an existential threat, the role of shame in stalling recovery, and the "hard pills" that must be swallowed for true relationship restoration.

The Anatomy of Betrayal

Betrayal is often misunderstood as simply a sexual or financial act. Dr. Tatkin defines it more deeply as the violation of the free flow of vital information.

Download:  From Self-Blame to Self-Compassion Recovery Worksheet.

Are you your own worst enemy in recovery? This episode tackles the hidden barrier that keeps many people stuck in addiction - a harsh inner critic. Hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind explore how self-blame can sabotage recovery efforts and share research-backed strategies for developing self-compassion. Drawing from Dr. Kristen Neff's groundbreaking research, they explain why being kind to yourself isn't just "feel-good talk" but a powerful tool for lasting change. The hosts break down practical steps to transform your inner dialogue and explain why self-compassion actually leads to better accountability t...

In this episode of The Addicted Mind, Duane Osterlind talks with Noel Rihm and Bill Brady, founders of Kaleidoscope. Both Noel and Bill spent decades as high-functioning professionals—Noel in healthcare leadership and Bill as a high-powered Wall Street lawyer—while battling severe, life-threatening alcoholism.

After years of being labeled "treatment resistant" by traditional rehabs, they discovered that the problem wasn't their lack of willpower; it was that the root cause—unprocessed trauma—had never been addressed. They discuss how EMDR, psychedelic-assisted therapy, and a "bespoke" approach to healing allowed them to move from "white-knuckling" sobriety to living a...

Welcome back to The Addicted Mind Podcast. This week, we are diving deep into the transformative work of therapy pioneer Virginia Satir. Joining us is Teresa McClellan, a seasoned expert with 18 years of experience across the therapeutic spectrum—working with couples, families, and groups of all kinds.

Teresa is currently doing groundbreaking work by applying Satir’s methods within a men’s prison, witnessing firsthand how these "growth-oriented" practices can revolutionize addiction recovery.

A Visionary Ahead of Her Time

Virginia Satir’s approach was revolutionary, prioritizing human connection long before modern n...

Download: Vulnerability Transforms Recovery Worksheet.

Ever wonder why showing your true self feels so terrifying, yet could be the very key to your healing? In this powerful episode, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind explore how embracing vulnerability, despite its discomfort, can become your greatest strength in recovery. Drawing from both research and real-world experience, they break down why many of us hide behind masks and how this actually hinders our healing journey. The hosts share practical strategies for safely opening up to others and building authentic connections, backed by insights from Dr. Brené Brown's gr...

In this episode of The Addicted Mind, host Duane Osterlind sits down with Dr. Judy Rosenberg, founder of the Psychological Healing Center, to dive deep into the psychology of smoking addiction.

Dr. Rosenberg shares her journey from the early days of aversion therapy at the Schick Center to developing her transformative "Mind Map" for healing. They move beyond the surface-level habit of nicotine to explore the "hole in the soul"—the childhood wounds and narcissistic injuries that often drive us to "fill" ourselves with substances rather than finding true "fulfillment."

Key Highlights & Th...

Download: 5 Crucial Mindset Shifts for Addiction Recovery Worksheet.

Ever felt like you're stuck in a never-ending battle with addiction? You're not alone. In this eye-opening episode of Addictive Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind dive into the game-changing world of mindset shifts in recovery. They reveal that beating addiction isn't just about willpower – it's about rewiring your brain.

The duo kicks things off by exploring why so many of us fall back into old habits, even when we're trying our hardest to change. They argue that the key to lasting recovery li...

This is a powerful episode featuring Jesse Crosson, author of The Best Part of Prison and founder of the Second Chancer Foundation. Jesse shares his incredible journey from being an 18-year-old sentenced to 32 years in prison to becoming a leading voice in restorative justice and cultural change.

Whether you are struggling with a physical "prison" or an emotional one, Jesse’s insights on vulnerability, routine, and radical acceptance offer a roadmap for anyone looking to reclaim their life from the darkness.

🎧 In This Episode, We Discuss:

The "Ping-Pong Ball" Existence

...

In this episode, Duane Osterlind sits down with Mitchell Osmond, founder of Dad Nation, to discuss the unique challenges faced by career-driven men. Mitchell shares his powerful personal journey from the brink of divorce, $100,000 in debt, and substance struggle to a life of health and purpose. The conversation explores why the very skills that make men successful in the boardroom often sabotage them in the living room, and how to bridge the gap between professional power and personal connection.

Key Highlights

The Paradox of the "Successful" Man

Many men feel...

Download: Identify And Regulate Worksheet

Have you ever felt a whirlwind of emotions but couldn't pin down exactly what you were feeling? You're not alone. Many people, especially those on the road to recovery, struggle to identify their emotions. This episode of "The Addicted Mind" podcast dives into the crucial skill of recognizing and naming our feelings.

Hosts Duane and Eric explore why pinpointing emotions is so important, especially for those battling addiction. They explain that many people used substances or behaviors to cope with overwhelming or confusing feelings. Learning to identify...

In this episode, Duane Osterlind sits down with Dr. Alexandra Katehakis, founder of the Center for Healthy Sex, to explore the complex relationship between shame, affect dysregulation, and addiction. Dr. Katehakis breaks down why shame isn’t just a "bad feeling" but a survival-based biological process rooted in our nervous system and early childhood development.

Key Highlights

1. What is Shame? (The Gut Connection)

Shame is a pro-social function embedded in the human organism from birth. Unlike many other emotions, shame is primarily located in the enteric nervous system (the gut).

In this episode, Duane Osterlind sits down with Dr. Rachel Docekal to discuss the shifting landscape of youth addiction and mental health. With over 40 years of history, the Hanley Foundation is moving beyond the "Just Say No" era into evidence-based prevention that addresses the root causes of use: isolation, digital addiction, and the mental health fallout of the post-COVID world.

Key Takeaways

Download: BUILDING YOUR SUPPORT NETWORK AND ASKING FOR HELP

Have you ever felt like reaching out for help is a sign of weakness? You're not alone. In this eye-opening episode of the Addicted Mind podcast, hosts Duane Osterlind and Eric Osterlind delve into the powerful impact of asking for help on the journey to recovery.

Asking for help can be one of the hardest steps in addiction recovery, but it's also one of the most crucial. Duane and Eric discuss common barriers like shame, denial, and fear of vulnerability...

In this episode of The Addicted Mind, we dive deep into the world of experiential therapy with Steve Buckby, a seasoned therapist with over 50 years of experience. Steve shares his profound insights into the Virginia Satir Model and how its principles of change, the "Mandala," and the "Iceberg" can be powerful tools for those struggling with addiction.

We explore the idea of addiction as a "lover" that must be grieved, the necessity of walking through chaos to find a new status quo, and why the relationship between therapist and client is a collaborative journey of human-to-human connection.<...

In this episode of The Addicted Mind, Duane speaks with Nima Rahmany, a former chiropractor turned emotional health educator. Nima shares his profound journey from "success on paper" to a total relational breakdown that forced him to confront his own deep-seated patterns of anxious attachment and fawning.

They dive deep into the concept of becoming "trigger-proof," the hidden cost of people-pleasing, and why "shame alchemization" is the secret to a truly authentic life. Whether you are struggling with addiction, burnout, or toxic relationship cycles, this episode offers a roadmap for moving from unconscious reactivity to conscious leadership.

...

Download: Debunking Common Emotion Myths Worksheet

Have you ever felt like your emotions are running the show, pushing and pulling you in directions you don’t want to go? You’re not alone.

In this episode of the Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane Osterlind and Eric Osterlind dive deep into the world of emotion regulation. They explore common myths about emotions that keep many of us stuck in unhealthy patterns. With practical insights and compassionate guidance, Duane and Eric shed light on how our misunderstandings about emotions can lead to more intense feel...

In this episode, Duane speaks with Early Brunner, the founder of Recovery Demystified. Early shares their powerful journey of navigating addiction as a queer, neurodivergent (autistic) person growing up in a small town. They discuss why traditional recovery models like AA can feel alienating for marginalized groups and how science-based "Quit Lit," neuroscience, and self-compassion provided the path to lasting sobriety.

Key Topics & Chapters

In this powerful episode, Duane sits down with filmmaker Benjamin Flaherty to discuss his hard-hitting documentary, Shuffle. The film pulls back the curtain on the "Florida Shuffle"—a predatory cycle in the billion-dollar addiction treatment industry where vulnerable individuals are "brokered" between facilities for insurance payouts.

Benjamin shares his own journey of recovery and explains how his personal experience allowed him to gain unprecedented access to a community often silenced or exploited. This conversation explores the dark intersection of greed and healthcare, the resilience of the human spirit, and why the current treatment system desperately needs transparency.

Download: OVERCOMING BLACK OR WHITE THINKING WORKSHEET

Welcome to the Addicted Mind podcast! Have you ever caught yourself thinking, "I'm either a success or a complete failure"? This episode is for you.

In this episode, we dive deep into the pervasive issue of black-and-white thinking, also known as dichotomous thinking and its impact on addiction recovery. Join Duane Osterlind and Eric Osterlind as they explore how this rigid mindset can create emotional instability and hinder progress. Drawing on principles from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), they discuss practical steps to move from extreme thinking to a...

Today, let’s journey through the realms of neuroscience, addiction research, and the promising future of treatment strategies for substance use disorders. On this episode, Duane speaks with Dr. Paul Kenny, a distinguished figure in neuroscience and addiction research. He unravels his research on signaling cascades in rodents’ brains, providing fascinating insights into addiction-like behaviors. 

The discussion turns engaging as Paul illuminates his groundbreaking work with certain treatments and their potential role in addressing cravings and motivation in substance use disorders is nothing short of fascinating. 

They also steer the conversation towards an area often overlo...

In this episode, Duane Osterlind sits down with author Dana Bowman to discuss the often-overlooked intersection of long-term recovery and menopause. Dana opens up about her journey through "the second reckoning"—a period where hormonal shifts triggered intense anxiety, suicidal ideation, and the resurfacing of addictive behaviors like sugar addiction and "doom scrolling."

They explore the concept of process addictions, the importance of self-advocacy in medical settings, and how creativity can serve as a vital tool for navigating the "identity attack" that often accompanies aging. Dana’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn't a destination, but...

Worksheet: Meeting Your Shadow

Have you ever done something and then wondered, "Who was that? That wasn't me"?

Maybe it was a relapse. A hurtful comment you didn't mean to say. Or that familiar feeling of sabotaging yourself right when things were finally going well. The uncomfortable truth? It was you—just a part of you that's been hiding in the shadows.

In this episode of The Addicted Mind, Duane and Eric Osterlind explore one of psychology's most powerful concepts: the shadow self. First named by psychiatrist Carl Jung, the shadow is the un...