RMA 136: Reel Recovery: Critiquing 'Intervention' and Exploring Addiction Genetics" In this week’s episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, we delve into the widely popular TV show 'Intervention.' We'll discuss both the praise and criticism it has received over the years, exploring how it portrays addiction and the recovery process. Does the show offer a realistic view of addiction, or does it sensationalize personal tragedies for entertainment? Then we shift gears to a discussion about the genetic basis of addiction. What role do genes play in addictive behaviors, and how can this knowledge em ..read more

Episode 135: Calm and Connected: Navigating Sobriety in Turbulent Times In this episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, we wrestle with the critical topics of stress management and the dangers of isolation in sobriety. We explore practical strategies for maintaining emotional and mental balance through stress-busting techniques tailored for those in recovery. We also discuss the often overlooked risk of isolation—even when surrounded by others—and how shrinking your social world can jeopardize sobriety.    Plus: What the heck have Mike and Nat been up to lately?    ALSO: Wh ..read more

Semiglutides in Sobriety: A New Frontier in Addiction Recovery?   In this week’s episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, we delve into the groundbreaking realm of semiglutide medications, such as Ozempic, and their emerging role in addiction treatment. As science advances, so does our understanding of how these drugs not only aid in weight loss, but also show promise in the realm of addiction recovery. We'll explore the current scientific insights on semiglutides' effects on the brain and body, specifically their potential to alter the brain's reward pathways and reduce the dopamine-drive ..read more

RMA 133: The Prop 110 Debacle: A Deep Dive into Oregon's Legalization Experiment and the Nationwide Impact on Recovery We are BACK! This week, we delve into the recent repeal of Proposition 110 in Oregon—a pivotal move that has sparked extensive debate and concern within the recovery community. We’ll explore how Oregon's challenges with drug legalization have not only affected local recovery efforts but also cast a long shadow across the nation, influencing perceptions, policies, and the recovery movement at large. Join us as we unpack the complexities of this issue, share insights, and discus ..read more

RMA 132: The Suki Jones Interview Join us this week on RMA, where we engage in a candid conversation with Suki Jones, author of the addiction and recovery memoir "Sea, Swallow Me." Suki takes us through her personal journey, detailing her experiences with drug addiction while juggling the responsibilities of motherhood and a career in modeling during the early '90s in the Bay Area. She shares the challenges of maintaining a façade of normalcy while struggling privately, providing a balanced perspective on the often-hidden battles many folks in recovery face on a daily basis   A ferocious ..read more

Nat Turns Six! Long Term Sobriety and Getting Your Marbles Back As we celebrate Nat’s  remarkable milestone of six years of sobriety, we explore the personal journey of rebuilding one's identity and maintaining relationships in long-term recovery.  We also discuss the challenges and triumphs of redefining oneself post-addiction, from the metaphorical regaining of one's 'marbles' after five years, to the practicalities and emotional aspects of reconstructing a life free from substances.    Join us as we navigate the nuanced paths of staying sober, the pros and cons of counti ..read more

Beyond the Surface: Scuba Danny's Dive into Dry January, and Rethinking Your Own Relationship With Alcohol In our first episode of 2024 Mike sits down with his old pal Scuba Danny.  Danny, currently navigating the waters of Dry January, shares his candid experiences and reflections on this temporary voyage of abstinence, despite having no plans to give up drinking long-term. In this far-ranging conversation we delve into the complexities of society's relationship with alcohol, the varied personal connections we have with it, and the often undiscussed spectrum of alcohol use. Scuba Danny o ..read more

Breaking Balls and Beliefs: Unpacking Dock Ellis' LSD No-Hitter and Discussing the Outer Limits of Harm Reduction In this week’s episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, Mike and Nat dive into the remarkable world of MJB pitcher Dock Ellis with a review of "No No: A Dockumentary." This episode takes a closer look at Ellis's infamous no-hitter while under the influence of LSD—a tale that intersects the worlds of professional sports, substance abuse, and recovery in an unexpected way. Recovery in the News takes a look at  the concept of harm reduction from a different angle. What does harm r ..read more

Episode 127: Cult-ivating Sobriety- Reviewing Love Has Won and it’s Boozy Leader   In this week’s episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, Mike and Nat do an in-depth review of the documentary "Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God," now streaming on Max. Our hosts explore the captivating and often troubling world of the Love Has Won cult, discussing the complex interplay of addiction, control, and charismatic leadership embodied by the group's leader, Amy Carlson. The guys also engage in a taste test of a new non-alcoholic wine, sparking a broader conversation about the role of non-alcohol ..read more

Episode 126: An Attitude of Gratitude-The RMA Thanksgiving Special! Just in time for Thanksgiving, RMA brings you a special episode focused on gratitude. As we approach the festive time, it's important to remember the role of gratitude in our recovery journey. In this episode, we do a deep dive into understanding the power of thankfulness and its transformative impact on our mental and emotional well-being. Mike and Nat share personal stories and insights on how expressing gratitude has strengthened their recovery, and we look at how practicing gratitude dovetails with CBT therapy. We also exp ..read more