Best Matthew Heneghan Podcasts (2025)

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Processing Charlie Kirk’s Death: Raw Thoughts and a Podcast Reboot 20:31

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1d ago20:31

20:31

In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, Matthew sits down to process the shocking murder of Charlie Kirk and what it means in today’s divided world. More than just a headline, this moment sparked reflection — on grief, anger, politics, and the importance of speaking truth without a filter. Matthew opens up about why this tragedy pulled him back to t…

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First Tuesday, Every Month — Here’s Why It Matters 4:55

10d ago4:55

4:55

Hey folks — welcome back to Unwritten Chapters. I gotta level with you right off the top here. This show has always been me sitting down and bleeding a little bit into a microphone, hoping maybe it lands with somebody out there. And bleeding — as it turns out — is exhausting. I’ve been running this thing weekly, or trying to, and somewhere between …

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Notes from Greece: Love, Chaos & Sun-Soaked Streets 45:04

7d ago45:04

45:04

In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, Matthew Heneghan takes you on a raw, unfiltered journey through Greece — from the cracked streets of Athens to the sun-soaked chaos of Rhodes. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why Anthony Bourdain was right about the real meaning of travel. How the streets of Athens feel like broken backs and old prophecies. …

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Toxic Veteran Culture & the Comparison Trap: Why 1 Year of Service Still Counts | Unwritten Chapters Podcast 23:00

1M ago23:00

23:00

Veteran identity. Service shaming. The toxic culture of comparison. In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, host Matthew Heneghan, a former Canadian Armed Forces medic and long-time paramedic, breaks down the ugly truth behind a viral moment in the Canadian Veterans Marketplace — a story where a fellow veteran was mocked for only serving one year. 💥…

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Paramedic Mental Health Crisis: 9 Suicides in 7 Months | PTSD, Trauma & System Failure 13:44

1M ago13:44

13:44

Nine paramedics lost to suicide in British Columbia in just seven months. This is not just a mental health crisis — this is a system failure. In this raw and unfiltered episode of Unwritten Chapters, former Canadian Armed Forces medic and civilian paramedic Matthew Heneghan pulls back the curtain on the hidden mental health emergency affecting firs…

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Why I Wrote About Hulk Hogan’s Death — And Why It’s Not What You Think | Nostalgia, Grief & Cancel Culture 12:01

2M ago12:01

12:01

On July 24th, Terry Bollea — better known as Hulk Hogan — passed away at the age of 71. I wrote a post reflecting on what that meant to me, and the backlash was swift. In this video, I unpack that post, the controversy that followed, and the deeper meaning behind my words. This isn’t about celebrating a flawed man — it’s about nostalgia, grief, gro…

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Why Some Trauma "Matters" and Others Don’t | PTSD, Justice, and the Gladue Double Standard 40:44

2M ago40:44

40:44

Why does the justice system show compassion for some trauma — but not for others? In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, I explore the unequal application of empathy in Canadian courts. From PTSD and veteran struggles to the racial lens of the Gladue ruling, this is a raw breakdown of how pain is politicized — and why true justice must include all …

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Unwritten Chapters Podcast: New Schedule & Updates! 3:21

2M ago3:21

3:21

We are transitioning to a bi-weekly format to enhance content quality and allow for better focus on mental health, personal growth, and life reflections. We also have a new podcast, Haunted B.C., featuring spooky stories from British Columbia. Thank you for your support! #MentalHealthPodcast #PersonalGrowth #PodcastUpdate #UnwrittenChapters #Haunte…

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Ketel Marte Controversy: What MLB Fans Need to Know Right Now 19:31

2M ago19:31

19:31

What’s really going on with Ketel Marte? In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, I unpack the situation surrounding Arizona Diamondbacks star Ketel Marte, the swirling controversy, and what it says about professional sports culture, pressure, and public perception. If you’re an MLB fan trying to make sense of the headlines — or just someone interest…

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Combat Trauma & Leadership: Insights from Bart Womack 2:02:26

3M ago2:02:26

2:02:26

From insider attack survivor to leadership expert — this is the untold cost of combat trauma and resilience. In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, I sit down with Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Bart Womack, author of Embedded Enemy. Bart shares his firsthand experience surviving a brutal insider attack during his time with the 101st Airborne Divisi…

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Family Trauma & Boundaries: When Love Comes with Conditions 45:34

3M ago45:34

45:34

Family trauma runs deep — and sometimes, it echoes through generations. In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, I share a recent experience that reopened an old wound — a message from a family member that didn’t ask how I was, didn’t recognize what I’ve survived, but instead demanded justification. I’ve been here before — having to explain why I’m h…

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The Hidden Cost of Legal Immigration: Waiting Without Answers 43:14

3M ago43:14

43:14

Legal immigration shouldn’t feel like punishment — but for many, it does. In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, I explore the emotional toll of doing everything “by the book” and still being left in limbo. Inspired by the stories of legal immigrants caught in the shadows of ICE raids — and my own stalled Veterans Affairs claim — this episode sheds…

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I was diagnosed with PTSD in 2017—last week, I used what I’ve learned to save a life. 38:25

4M ago38:25

38:25

PTSD nearly ended my life in 2017. Last week, I used my recovery to save someone else's. In this powerful episode for PTSD Awareness Month, I share my journey from diagnosis as a paramedic to real-world healing—culminating in a moment where my recovery truly came full circle. 🎧 What You’ll Hear: – My PTSD diagnosis and mental health crash in 2017 –…

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0.0 Beer Isn’t a Relapse: Sobriety Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All 26:33

4M ago26:33

26:33

If you drink 0.0 beer, you're not broken — and you haven't failed. In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, I speak from experience about the nuance of sobriety — including why I used 0.0 beer early in my recovery, why I’ve moved away from it, and why I still don’t believe it’s a relapse. Recovery is personal. It’s not a template. And if you’ve ever …

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CBC Interview: Trauma, Service & the Honour That Changed Everything 8:59

4M ago8:59

8:59

In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, I re-release my CBC Daybreak interview with host Sarah Penton — a raw and reflective conversation recorded after I was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal. Though the honour was official, what we talk about here is much deeper: the real cost of service, the lifelong weight of trauma, and what it mean…

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Mental Health, Grief, and Life After Trauma – Interview on The Last Show with David Cooper 24:10

5M ago24:10

24:10

In this special episode of Unwritten Chapters, I’m sharing a powerful conversation from the archives — my guest interview on The Last Show with David Cooper. As I take some time off to recover from illness, I wanted to bring you a previously aired episode that explores themes central to this podcast: mental health, PTSD, addiction recovery, grief, …

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I Stayed Sober Without AA: 12 Things That Saved My Life 54:50

5M ago54:50

54:50

You don't have to follow the 12 steps to stay sober — sometimes, you have to create your own. In this episode of Unwritten Chapters, I reveal the 12 real-world strategies that helped me stay sober after rehab — without ever attending an AA meeting again. This is for anyone who feels lost outside the traditional recovery system. It's not about rejec…

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Healing Means Letting Go — Even of Family 36:24

5M ago36:24

36:24

Episode Summary: In this raw and reflective episode of Unwritten Chapters, I open up about the complicated trauma that comes not from the battlefield, but from the living room. From family. From silence. As a veteran, former paramedic, and survivor of PTSD, I share a personal account of emotional abuse, gaslighting, and betrayal—specifically the ki…

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Val Kilmer: How Iceman Saved My Life (You Won't Believe It) 0:55

5M ago0:55

0:55

Explore the emotional impact of movies with our heartfelt tribute to Val Kilmer. Discover a personal story of hope and resilience inspired by his iconic roles. Join us as we celebrate his unforgettable screen presence and the influence of 'Iceman' on finding strength in unseen moments. #ValKilmerTribute #MovieInspiration #EmotionalImpact #Iceman #U…

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How Val Kilmer and Top Gun Saved Me From Leaving the Military 28:14

5M ago28:14

28:14

In this emotional episode of the Unwritten Chapters Podcast, host Matthew Heneghan shares a powerful true story about staying in the military after watching Top Gun during a lonely Christmas on base. This heartfelt Val Kilmer tribute explores military mental health, the quiet strength of Iceman, and how Val Kilmer's legacy helped change a life. A m…

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First Responder Realities: Why We Need to Listen to the Silence 31:04

6M ago31:04

31:04

Episode Description: Have you ever felt the profound weight of silence—the kind of silence that carries more meaning than words ever could? In this emotionally charged episode of Unwritten Chapters, join me as I recount my powerful visit to a paramedic station in Salmon Arm, BC, during Christmas 2024. As a former paramedic, I instantly recognized w…

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Navigating Canadian Politics: Turning Political Division into Respectful Disagreement 43:06

6M ago43:06

43:06

In this timely episode, we tackle the challenging world of Canadian politics ahead of the upcoming federal election. With growing political division causing family arguments and heated online arguments, how can we manage election anxiety and social media conflict? We’ll explore recent controversies around Canadian prime minister Mark Carney Canada,…

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Receiving the King Charles Medal: A Veteran’s Journey through PTSD, Imposter Syndrome, and Personal Growth 32:08

6M ago32:08

32:08

In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode of Unwritten Chapters, host Matthew Heneghan shares his extraordinary experience of receiving the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal. Matthew candidly discusses the complex emotions he experienced, including battles with imposter syndrome, navigating life after military and paramedic service,…

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Writing, Advocacy & Awards: A Personal Reflection on a Transformative Week 34:16

7M ago34:16

34:16

Unwritten Chapters – A Big Week: Speaking in Afghanistan, A National Honor, and A Literary Win Episode Summary:Welcome back to Unwritten Chapters! This episode is a big one—I'm sharing some incredible milestones that have unfolded in my life this week. From speaking to a group of young writers in Afghanistan to receiving a national honor in Canada,…

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We Snuck Into a Hidden Room in Our School – And Never Told Anyone 14:24

7M ago14:24

14:24

There are some moments from childhood that stay with you forever—the ones that felt like a secret written just for you and your closest friends. This is the story of the time we found a hidden passage behind locker 214 in our middle school. A dusty crawl space filled with forgotten desks, old typewriters, and echoes of students long before us. It w…

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Why We Feel Guilty for Resting: The Truth About Mental Health Days 29:14

7M ago29:14

29:14

Episode Summary: In this episode ofUnwritten Chapters, we dive into the guilt many of us feel when taking a mental health day. Why do we reward overworking but feel bad about resting? I share a personal story about a recent family mental health day and explore why we associate productivity with worth, why we struggle to justify rest, and how we can…

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Mental Health, Addiction Recovery, and Personal Growth Through Storytelling 18:46

8M ago18:46

18:46

In this episode of the Unwritten Chapters podcast (formerly A Medic's Mind), we’re revisiting the past to uncover how it helps in moving forward in life. Join me as I reflect on my very first podcast episode, sharing powerful paramedic stories and my PTSD journey. This mental health podcast dives into overcoming trauma, recovery from addiction, and…

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Midlife Growth: Transform Your 40s Into a Time of Self-Discovery 19:59

8M ago19:59

19:59

Discover how midlife growth can lead to incredible personal evolution and a fulfilling life after 40. In this video, I share insights into navigating fatherhood, embracing personal growth in your 40s, and finding meaning through midlife reflections. Explore how career stability, a parenting perspective, and life lessons at 40 shape your journey. Fr…

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Coping with Wildfire Evacuations: Mental Health Tips from a PTSD Survivor 40:09

8M ago40:09

40:09

Discover practical wildfire mental health strategies and PTSD coping tips from a survivor's perspective. Learn how to manage stress in emergencies, navigate wildfire evacuation preparation, and build mental resilience during disasters. This video offers essential evacuation mental health tips and insights into dealing with anxiety and trauma from w…

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Grieving a Sibling: A Personal Story of Love and Loss. 11:37

8M ago11:37

11:37

Episode Description: In this deeply personal episode, I honor the 5th anniversary of my sister Lisa's passing with a heartfelt tribute. Through a story woven with love, reflection, and grief, I explore the unbreakable bond we shared and the lasting impact she has on my life. Set to music, this episode is more than a remembrance—it’s a story of love…

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Managing Holiday Stress: Prioritizing Mental Health During the Festive Season 35:02

9M ago35:02

35:02

Episode Summary: In this heartfelt and reflective episode of Unwritten Chapters, host Matthew Heneghan challenges the all-too-common notion of “holiday stress.” Drawing from personal experience, Matthew shares how the holidays have evolved for him—from moments of loneliness and pressure to a season of joy, connection, and realistic expectations. 🎧 …

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TEASER: Holiday Stress: Finding Calm in the Chaos 1:23

9M ago1:23

1:23

Episode Summary:In this heartfelt and reflective episode of Unwritten Chapters, host Matthew Heneghan challenges the all-too-common notion of “holiday stress.” Drawing from personal experience, Matthew shares how the holidays have evolved for him—from moments of loneliness and pressure to a season of joy, connection, and realistic expectations. 🎧 T…

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Why I Rebranded: Turning the Page on Life, Growth, and My Podcast 25:15

9M ago25:15

25:15

🎙️ "Why I Rebranded: A Story of Change, Growth, and New Beginnings" In this episode, award-winning author Matthew Heneghan shares why he turned the page on his podcast, rebranding it from A Medic’s Mind to Unwritten Chapters. If you’ve ever faced a moment where change was necessary for growth, this episode is for you. Why the rebrand? Learn how the…

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Unwritten Chapters Trailer 1:05

9M ago1:05

1:05

Hello everyone, and welcome to Unwritten Chapters. I’m your host, Matthew Heneghan—an award-winning author, former paramedic, and military veteran. In 2017, I was diagnosed with PTSD and depression as a result of my time in service, and since then, I’ve been on a journey of learning—about myself, about how to navigate the world, and about finding s…

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Brief Announcement 1:37

9M ago1:37

1:37

Hey, everyone. Matt here. So, no episode this week. As we near the wonderous holiday that is Christmas, life tends to get a little busy and thus, as this is a one man operation around here at A Medic's Mind the podcast, I run out of time to get the things done that I'd like it. But, I plan to release an episode the following Tuesday, December 17th …

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Overcoming Anxiety to Fulfill a WWE Dream: My Survivor Series Experience 38:05

10M ago38:05

38:05

This week on A Medic's Mind, I step into the ring of my own life to share an unforgettable weekend. Join me as I dive into my love for WWE wrestling, recount the plane ride that tested my nerves, and reflect on a fancy dinner where I met some of my favorite wrestlers like Bron Breaker, Candice LaRae, Chelsea Green, and Tiffany Stratton. I’ll take y…

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Why Hiding Your Emotions Is Hurting You: The Power of Vulnerability 43:40

10M ago43:40

43:40

Why do we feel the need to hide our emotions? Even when it’s natural to express them, societal pressures often push us to suppress our feelings. In this episode of A Medic's Mind, we explore how these cultural norms impact our mental health and why vulnerability is a powerful strength, not a weakness. Through personal stories and professional insig…

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I Remember You: Stories of Brotherhood, Loss, and Remembrance 17:57

10M ago17:57

17:57

In this special Remembrance Day episode of A Medic’s Mind, I share two deeply personal stories that reflect on the bonds of brotherhood, the pain of loss, and the enduring power of memory. These stories honor the lives of Cpl. Andrew Eykelenboom, Cpl. Michael Starker, and Pte. Colin Wilmot—brothers who made the ultimate sacrifice. I also take you b…

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Navigating Death with Dignity: An Interview with Red Door Doula 41:08

11M ago41:08

41:08

What is an end-of-life doula, and how do they support individuals and families in one of life’s most challenging times? In my latest podcast episode, I had the honor of speaking with Anne from Red Door Doula, an end-of-life doula with a compassionate and deeply meaningful approach to supporting those facing their final chapter. We discuss how a dou…

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It's Okay to Not Be Okay: Acceptance in the Face of Anxiety and PTSD 24:40

11M ago24:40

24:40

In this heartfelt episode of A Medic’s Mind, titled “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: Acceptance in the Face of Anxiety and PTSD,” Matthew Heneghan opens up about a recent PTSD flashback triggered by a sound that unexpectedly transported him back to his days as a paramedic. This episode explores the unpredictable nature of triggers and the profound impact…

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The Paramedic’s Dilemma: Is It Worth the Risk of PTSD and Burnout? 36:50

11M ago36:50

36:50

In this episode, I dive deep into the harsh realities of life as a paramedic—where saving lives comes at a personal cost. With burnout, PTSD, and mental health struggles affecting so many first responders, we ask the hard question: Is becoming a paramedic still worth it? I explore the emotional highs and lows of the job, share personal insights on …

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Thanksgiving and Forgiveness: How Letting Go Brings True Freedom 10:03

11M ago10:03

10:03

In this Thanksgiving special, I reflect on a poignant memory from 2004 at Camp Borden, Ontario. Alone in a quiet barracks, sitting at a table with a less-than-ideal holiday meal, I found myself contemplating what 'home' truly meant. Fast forward twenty years, and my sense of home and gratitude has transformed in ways I could never have imagined. Jo…

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Forging Family: Celebrating Thanksgiving on Your Own Terms 35:52

12M ago35:52

35:52

Thanksgiving is traditionally seen as a time to gather with family, but what if your family has caused more harm than joy? In this heartfelt episode of A Medic’s Mind, I explore the freedom of creating your own family in adulthood—a circle of people who support, uplift, and love you for who you are. Join me as I share my own journey of walking away…

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Receiving the Medal of Good Citizenship: Family Memories and Our Trip to Victoria 30:57

12M ago30:57

30:57

Join me in this special episode of 'A Medic's Mind' as I recount my trip to Victoria, British Columbia, where I received the prestigious Medal of Good Citizenship. This personal update highlights not just the honor itself but the unforgettable memories created with my family. From our first ferry ride together to exploring Victoria's historical lan…

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Veteran Pride and Division: Why We Tear Each Other Down" 39:58

12M ago39:58

39:58

Hey everyone, welcome back to A Medic's Mind. As Remembrance Day approaches, I’ve been thinking about something that’s been on my mind for a while: the way veterans sometimes turn on each other. Today, I’m diving into the complicated issue of veteran pride and the tension that seems to exist within our ranks. Why do some veterans criticize others f…

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Must-Watch Autumn Movies: My Top 5 Fall Film Favorites 15:54

1y ago15:54

15:54

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there’s no better way to embrace the cozy season than with a good movie. In this episode of A Medic’s Mind, I’m sharing my top 5 must-watch autumnal films that perfectly capture the magic of the season. From heartwarming tales of friendship to nostalgic coming-of-age stories, these movies will ha…

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Mental Health Matters: Navigating PTSD and Everyday Struggles 12:41

1y ago12:41

12:41

In this episode of A Medic’s Mind, join me as I take you through an unexpected journey—a trip to the Interior Provincial Exhibition (IPE) in Armstrong. A simple day out with family might sound ordinary, but for someone living with PTSD, events like this can be overwhelming. However, amidst the bustling fairgrounds, loud noises, and flashing lights,…

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Facing Negativity: The Truth Behind My Stories and How to Handle Online Accusations 23:09

1y ago23:09

23:09

In this episode of A Medic's Mind, I address a recent negative message accusing me of stealing stories and being dishonest about my paramedic service. Join me as I dive into the toxicity within the paramedic field, the importance of protecting identities in storytelling, and how to navigate online negativity. Learn how to stay true to your own stor…

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From Service to Citizenship: A CBC Interview with Matthew Heneghan 14:28

1y ago14:28

14:28

In this special episode of The Emetic’s Mind podcast, host Matthew Heneghan shares a significant milestone in his journey—receiving the British Columbia Medal of Good Citizenship. Matthew reflects on the honor and the path that led him here, from his years of service as a paramedic to his ongoing efforts in raising awareness for mental health and v…

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6 Years Sober: Empowerment, Reflections, and the Journey to Sobriety 31:55

1y ago31:55

31:55

In this special episode of A Medic's Mind, host Matthew Heneghan marks his 6-year milestone of sobriety by sharing the powerful lessons he's learned along the way. From overcoming societal pressures and stigmas around drinking to embracing the freedom that comes with choosing sobriety, Matthew reflects on the transformative journey that has shaped …