Best Amber Cavanaugh Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 180 - Name It to Tame It 21:17

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12d ago21:17

21:17

In this episode Mike Van Meter discusses the topic "Name It to Tame It". The discussion centers around emotional labeling-a neuroscience-backed tool to calm overwhelming feelings. Drawing from his experience, Mike shares stories, strategies, steps for sobriety and resilience. This episode is ideal for addicts, their families, and everyone who is se…

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Episode 179 - Laura Lindsey: Heroes on the Water 50:30

17d ago50:30

50:30

In this episode, we sit down with Laura Lindsey from Heroes on the Water to explore how time on the water is helping veterans, first responders, and their families heal from stress and trauma through kayak fishing and the outdoors. Laura shares how Heroes on the Water builds community, lowers barriers to getting help, and creates a calm, judgment-f…

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Episode 178 - Recovery is Hard but not Impossible 37:19

1M ago37:19

37:19

In this episode, Mike and Lillie discuss the core idea that recovery from addiction is difficult but not impossible, using the rigorous training of Navy Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) Training as a compelling analogy. The key strategy for tackling overwhelming challenges, whether SEAL training or lifelong sobriety, is to break them down i…

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Episode 177 - Journey of Recovery-From Rock Bottom to Redemption with Taylor Cavanaugh 49:31

2M ago49:31

49:31

From Navy SEAL to jail to the French Foreign Legion and to recovery-Taylor Cavanaugh's story is one of ultimate resilience. Join Mike Van Meter and Taylor as they share their truths on this episode of Recovery is Possible. taylorcavanaugh.com YouTube: TCAV TV Instagram: tcavofficial Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com Make s…

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Episode 176 - Tony Crescenzo-Intelligent Waves and Recovery 57:26

2M ago57:26

57:26

In this compelling episode, host Mike Van Meter sits down with Tony Crescenzo, President and CEO of Intelligent Waves and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, to explore the powerful intersection of recovery, resilience, and leadership. Tony shares his personal journey navigating the complex emotional landscape many veterans face after service, including h…

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Episode 175 - Put The Shovel Down-Amber Hollingsworth 1:01:54

2M ago1:01:54

1:01:54

In this episode, I sit down with Amber Hollingsworth, the creator and host of the YouTube channel Put the Shovel Down. As an Addiction Recovery Specialist, Amber shares valuable insights on focusing on what's going right in recovery and the importance of building healthy relationships along the way. She highlights how supporting others in making th…

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Episode 174 - The Deception of Denial 1:02:18

2M ago1:02:18

1:02:18

In this episode, we explore how the disease of addiction can convince you that you don't have it. We take a closer look at the defense mechanisms and cognitive distortions that fuel denial-such as rationalization, minimization, self-deception, blame-shifting, and justification. We also share practical strategies to help you break through denial and…

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Episode 173 - Saying No: Real Talk on Social Drinking Pressures 1:02:37

3M ago1:02:37

1:02:37

By Mike Van Meter

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Episode 172 - Using Genetics to Predict Addiction: James Piacentino and Thrive Genetics 1:06:40

3M ago1:06:40

1:06:40

Where does addiction really come from, and how can we get ahead of it? In this episode, I interview James Piacentino, Co-Founder and CEO of Thrive Genetics to explore how genetics may hold the key to predicting addiction risk. We dive into the groundbreaking role of genetic insights in guiding treatment; more importantly, supporting lasting recover…

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Episode 171 - The Living Amends 1:06:40

3M ago1:06:40

1:06:40

A living amends is more than apologizing; it's about radically changing one's behavior and lifestyle to support ongoing sobriety and healing relationships. In this episode, we dispel myths about the living amends, encourage practical change, and provide hope for long-term growth. Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com Music-Joh…

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Episode 170 - There Is No Secret to Recovery 1:02:34

4M ago1:02:34

1:02:34

In this episode we discuss how people in long-term recovery have been able to achieve this incredible goal. We discuss the realities of early recovery from addiction and how families can support their loved ones during this phase. In recovery there is no simple secret or quick fix, and we focus on practical insights and encouragement for both indiv…

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Episode 169 - Stigma and Misconceptions about Medically Assisted Treatment 1:03:41

4M ago1:03:41

1:03:41

In this episode Lillie and I discuss the stigma surrounding Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT). MAT integrates FDA approved medication and counseling to support people in recovery from addiction, primarily opioid or alcohol use disorders. Medications help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings, which improves retention in treatment and overall rec…

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Episode 168 - Influence Your Recovery: Motivation, Ability, and Lasting Sobriety 41:26

4M ago41:26

41:26

In this episode, Mike and Lillie dive into Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change by Joseph Grenny and his colleagues. The book explores the interconnected roles of motivation and ability, and we reflect on how these ideas can be applied to the recovery journey. By embracing these principles, individuals can greatly increase their chances of…

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Episode 167 - Recovery Meetings and Addressing Family Needs 55:37

4M ago55:37

55:37

In this episode we discuss the importance of recovery meetings, address family needs as well as how to build boundaries together. Early recovery is tough, but it is even harder if the person in recovery and the family members are not working together. We discuss strategies to make early recovery easier for everyone involved. Please visit our web si…

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Episode 166 - Another Year of Sobriety! 42:13

5M ago42:13

42:13

On this Sober Anniversary Mike and Lillie discuss what the journey has been like, and what it took to get here. Also, they discuss how life has changed, and how the recovery journey ebbs and flows. Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Win…

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Episode 165 - Mike and Lillie Discuss Early Recovery 55:24

5M ago55:24

55:24

In this episode, we announce the changing of the name of this podcast. Mike and Lillie discuss early recovery and how families can support their loved one. Please visit our web site at: vanmeterwellnesssolutions.com Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger…

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Episode 164 - Tom Anderson "Begin to Live Again" 56:26

7M ago56:26

56:26

In this episode retired Fire Fighter Tom Anderson discusses the dangers of self-diagnosis and not being honest with yourself. After suffering deep depression, Tom learned he was not alone in his suffering and that other people share our story. Join us as Tom discusses his tale of recovery and how he learned to live again. Trauma Tuesday Meetings e-…

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Episode 163 - Rowing Across the Atlantic-Mark Pfetzer from Guardian Initiatives 56:51

8M ago56:51

56:51

Mark Pfetzer from Guardian Initiatives was previously on this show and discussed plans to cross the Atlantic Ocean in order to raise awareness about suicide. Mark and his team completed the trip and shares what this experience was like. www.row3000.com Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged M…

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Episode 162 - Listening to Others 21:34

8M ago21:34

21:34

In order to attain long-term sobriety a couple of things must happen. First, you must WANT recovery more than ANYTHING ELSE. The second thing is you must listen to others that have achieved long-term sobriety. Sounds simple...it really is, but we make it difficult. Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury,…

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Episode 161 - Follow The Plan 13:23

10M ago13:23

13:23

When we come into recovery, we may think we are doing everything right. However, upon closer inspection, we may not be doing all we think we are. I this episode I discuss following the plan and tracking what you are actually doing. Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger…

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Episode 160 - Realizing Recovery is Possible 16:17

12M ago16:17

16:17

After taking a break for about half a year the podcast is back. In this episode I discuss why I took some time off and how recovery was an integral part of me being able to pursue the journey I was on this year. Recovery certainly is possible! Music-John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The Planets III, Mercury, The Winged Messenger…

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Episode 159 - Eric Kreitz on Helping Organizations Reintegrate Those in Recovery 55:32

1+ y ago55:32

55:32

We spend a lot of time discussing what it takes to get into recovery, however, today's guest discusses what employers can do to assist the employees returning to work after treatment. This is a discussion few people have in the recovery world, and I know you will gain insight into the "other side" of recovery and learn tools you can use to help tho…

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Episode 158 - Rob Carson - Mind, Body, and Spirit 54:31

1+ y ago54:31

54:31

Today I interviewed nationally syndicated radio host Rob Carson. Rob came to recovery seemingly "overnight", but as he explains there was a long road traveled before the "miracle" occurred. Rob's story demonstrates that each of us has a different path, but we all come to the same conclusion. We eventually have to get well or die, and Rob explains t…

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Episode 157 - Be the Solution, Not the Problem 24:50

1+ y ago24:50

24:50

We can stay sober in the midst of tragedy; and in this episode, I discuss how it is important that we help those that are also suffering the tragedy we are experiencing. Using only makes the problem worse, and then you become part of the problem. We want to be part of the solution, and through remaining focused on a few basic principles and service…

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Episode 156 - We Are Responsible for Our Recovery 19:51

1+ y ago19:51

19:51

No one else is responsible for your recovery, and no one else is the cause for your using. We alone are responsible for our recovery, and in this episode, I discuss this concept and how we can take responsibility for our use and what we need to do to begin the process of getting well. We can and do recover...but it is up to us. This episode is spon…

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Episode 155 - Not Relapsing After a Tragedy 19:04

1+ y ago19:04

19:04

My younger brother passed away a couple of weeks ago. When you look at the list of reasons why people relapse, this would be near the top. I am grateful that this did not happen to me, and I wanted to take this opportunity to discuss what the process of getting through this kind of event is like. Relapse does not have to happen, but we need to make…

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Episode 154 - What It Takes To Be Sober 23:02

2y ago23:02

23:02

In this episode we discuss what it takes to be sober. People in long-term sobriety tend to do similar things, and people who continue to relapse also tend to do similar things. I discuss where our focus needs to be and how you can change your mind set for success. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more informa…

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Episode 153 - The "I Get To List in Life" with John Monaghan 57:29

2y ago57:29

57:29

John Monaghan is a retired Chief of Police who now works in mental health, resilience, and Post Traumatic Growth. In this episode we discuss how to help people turn their struggle into strength, especially when it comes to addiction. John brings home the point, "Don't be afraid to ask for help, it is the most courageous thing you can do". You can a…

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Episode 152 - Hilary Phelps on Coaching and Wellness 50:47

2y ago50:47

50:47

Hilary Phelps discusses the benefits of coaching in regard to wellness and recovery. Hilary has an enormous amount of experience with recovery and discusses the unique challenges, expectations, and responsibilities they face on a daily basis. Hilary also discusses her new coaching platform she launched this year. hilaryphelps.com This episode is sp…

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Episode 151 - Fantasizing About What Our Future Can Be 14:37

2y ago14:37

14:37

Everyone that is attempting to get into recovery from drugs or alcohol has a vision of what they want their future to be. This does not have to be just a fantasy; it can be a reality. In this episode I discuss how we can make this vision a reality. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https:/…

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Episode 150 - Looking at What Recovery Does for Us 19:30

2y ago19:30

19:30

Many people will tell you what drinking and drugging does for them, but rarely do they discuss what it does to them. In this episode, I challenge the notion that drinking and drugging helps you in any way. Instead, I discuss what sobriety does for you and challenge you to be willing to recommit yourself in this new year to a life that is happy, joy…

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Episode 149 - Getting Through the Holidays Sober 21:52

2y ago21:52

21:52

The Holiday Season is difficult for many people, but especially for those in recovery. How do you get through the season without a relapse? In this episode I discuss ways tools you can use to get through the holidays with your recovery intact. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.…

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Episode 148 - We Can Do Hard Things in Recovery 33:29

2y ago33:29

33:29

Being in recovery is certainly a bonus when we set out to do really hard things in life. In fact, we find that those around us who are not in recovery struggle more than we do. We have a program, they don't! In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss how a program of recovery keeps us centered when the going gets really tough. This episode is sponso…

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Episode 147 - Recovery is Work 18:34

2y ago18:34

18:34

Recovery is work, and those that get into long-term recovery do the work. In this episode I discuss how we can change our view of recovery and how to focus on what is important. Recovery is about changing your thinking and surrounding yourself with those that are share the same journey and struggles. Remember, keep the main thing the main thing! Th…

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Episode 146 - Tapping into Your Energy in Recovery 32:00

2y ago32:00

32:00

People, Places, Things, and Situations can sap our energy and put us on the path to a relapse if we are not careful. We must remain balanced in our energy levels, but life throws us "curve balls" and this is sometimes easier said than done. In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss tools you can use to manage your energy and help prevent a host of …

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Episode 145 - The Power of Becoming a Whole Person 26:19

2+ y ago26:19

26:19

One of the most important parts of recovery is returning yourself to wholeness. In this episode, Aparna Sain and I discuss "The Power of Becoming a Whole Person" and the tools we need to achieve this goal. www.aparnasain.com This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find out more information at: https://www.retreatbehavioralhe…

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Episode 144 - Making a Decision for Recovery 31:24

2+ y ago31:24

31:24

How do we decide to do something we know we need to do? How do we decide to get sober? Sobriety is not about knowledge, it is about action, and until we make that commitment we are going to struggle. In this episode Aparna Sain and I explore this topic and discuss the difference between making a decision and making a commitment. These concepts may …

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Episode 143 - The Importance of Relationships 28:57

2+ y ago28:57

28:57

Addiction is isolation, and recovery is community. In this episode, Aparna Sain, host of the Mindful Nation radio show on WERA 96.7 and I discuss why relationships are vital for both a spiritual journey and recovery. This is a message we all need to hear whether we need to be in recovery or would like to just be our best selves. This episode is spo…

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Episode 142 - Focusing on Mental Health 30:40

2+ y ago30:40

30:40

Our government needs to do more to help with Mental Health and Addiction issues. In this episode Aparna Sain and I discuss what can and should be done to help the public with this serious issue. Addiction is on the rise and there does not seem to be any let up in sight. We are going to have to deal with this situation, or eventually this situation …

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Episode 141 - The Spiritual Awakening in Recovery 32:00

2+ y ago32:00

32:00

Developing your spiritual life in recovery is essential, but how do we do that? What does that mean? In this episode, Aparna Sain and I discuss the importance of developing a spiritual foundation in your life and how this can be integrated into recovery. Aparna is the host of Mindful Nation which can be heard weekly on WERA 96.7 in Arlington, Virgi…

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Episode 140 - Mindfulness with Aparna Sain 31:42

2+ y ago31:42

31:42

I recorded this episode live at the WERA 96.7 studio in Arlington, Virginia. Aparna Said joins me as we discuss mindfulness and meditation and how it can be used as a tool in recovery. Aparna discusses how she came into the practice of mindfulness and how it has helped her in her life journey. You will be inspired by this episode and learn concepts…

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Episode 139 - The Joys and Happiness in Life 14:34

2+ y ago14:34

14:34

In this episode I am being interviewed by Lori L. who asks me about The Joy and Happiness in Life. This was a project she was doing for school, and I thought the information was relevant for those that are suffering from addiction, or for those that are looking for happiness in their life. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You…

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Episode 138 - Sharpening Your Ax 16:19

2+ y ago16:19

16:19

It is believed that Abraham Lincoln once said, "If I had an hour to chop down a tree, then I would spend the first 45 minutes sharpening my ax." Recovery is the same way; we spend a lot of time getting ready for the day when our sobriety is tested. It is the preparation leading into that day that is going to count. We need to "sharpen our ax" and t…

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Episode 137 - People, Places, Things, and Situations 20:25

2+ y ago20:25

20:25

Early sobriety can be negatively affected by people, places, things, and situations. A listener asked what was meant by this because they hear this phrase quite a bit at recovery meetings. In this episode I explain what this phrase means and give practical ideas to help one stay sober. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can…

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Episode 136 - Things Everyone in Recovery Should Know 24:38

2+ y ago24:38

24:38

There are certain things that all people in recovery need to know. In this episode I cover twelve points I think are important in recovery, especially in the early stages. Recovery is difficult, but this list will help you begin the journey that will be the most rewarding thing you ever do. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. Yo…

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Episode 135 - Acceptance in Recovery 22:29

2+ y ago22:29

22:29

Recovery from addiction or any other mental health issue can be a long and challenging journey. One of the most critical elements of recovery is learning to accept the things we cannot change. In this episode I discuss some points we need to consider when it comes to acceptance. This episode is sponsored by Retreat Behavioral Health. You can find o…

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Episode 134 - Are Addicts Really Powerless Over Their Substances? 20:33

2+ y ago20:33

20:33

The idea that addicts are powerless over their substances is one of the great questions and mysteries. Powerlessness is a concept commonly referred to in the 12-step community and can be hotly debated. This concept suggests that addicts have lost the ability to control their drug or alcohol use, and that their addiction has taken over their lives. …

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Episode 133 - The Importance of Structure in Recovery 18:05

2+ y ago18:05

18:05

Structure is extremely important in recovery from addiction, mental health issues, or other behavioral health problems. Establishing a structured routine can provide a sense of stability, control, and purpose, which can help individuals in recovery maintain their progress and avoid relapse. In this episode I describe how and why structure is an imp…

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Episode 132 - Addiction Runs in The Family-Maggie Hunt 47:06

2+ y ago47:06

47:06

Today's guest is Maggie Hunt, Director of Communications and Marketing at Retreat Behavioral Health. Maggie discusses her recovery from Opiate Addiction and how addiction runs in families. The good news is that people can and do recover from addiction, and Maggie explains how she did just that. Today, her life is better than ever, and she is fulfil…

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Episode 131 - ”Life is Hard” - Interview with Anne Taydus 57:35

2+ y ago57:35

57:35

Life is hard, but Anne Taydus is an example of someone who persevered through difficult times and drug court and achieved long-term sobriety. Drug court helped save her life, and Anne describes her road to recovery. Today, through sobriety Anne is able to accomplish incredible things that benefit the community and improve the lives of children. Ann…