TAM+ EP72 From Shame to Science: Rewriting Your Addiction Story
Picture yourself staring in the mirror at 3 AM, promising yourself that tomorrow will be different, while that familiar voice whispers "you're weak" and "what's wrong with you?" If this sounds familiar, you need to hear this episode.
Host Duane Osterlind delivers a solo episode that completely destroys the most dangerous myth about addiction - that it's a moral failing or character flaw. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has personally walked through addiction, Duane brings both professional expertise and lived experience to this life-changing conversation.
This isn't another "just try harder" message. Instead, Duane shares groundbreaking brain science that proves addiction is a chronic brain disorder, not a weakness. You'll discover how your brain's reward system gets hijacked, why willpower alone isn't enough, and why shame actually makes recovery harder.
Drawing from leading researchers like Dr. Gabor Maté, Dr. Nora Volkow, and Dr. Anna Lembke, Duane explains the three stages of addiction and how genetics, environment, and brain chemistry all play crucial roles. More importantly, he provides practical steps to move from shame to self-compassion.
If you've ever felt broken, weak, or alone in your struggle with addiction, this episode will give you a new understanding of what you're really dealing with - and hope for genuine healing. You'll learn why connection is the opposite of addiction and how curiosity can replace judgment in your recovery journey.
This episode includes a free worksheet called "Reframing Your Addiction Story" to help you put these insights into practice immediately.
Download The Worksheet
Key Topics
Addiction as Brain Disease - Understanding the neurological changes that occur in addiction
The Shame Cycle - How moral failure myths keep people trapped in addiction
Brain Science Breakdown - Dopamine, prefrontal cortex, and the three stages of addiction
Genetics vs. Choice - Why addiction risk is 40-60% genetic
Self-Compassion Practices - Practical steps to move from shame to healing
Connection as Medicine - Why isolation feeds addiction and relationships heal
Rewriting Your Story - Separating who you are from what you've done
Timestamps
[00:01:00] - The 3 AM mirror moment: Breaking the shame cycle
[00:03:00] - What addiction really is: Brain disorder vs. moral failing
[00:05:00] - How your brain gets hijacked: The dopamine flood explained
[00:06:00] - Historical perspective: From moral failing to medical condition
[00:08:00] - The damage of shame: Why stigma makes addiction worse
[00:10:00] - Practical healing steps: Self-compassion and education
[00:12:00] - Recovery is possible: Brains heal and neural pathways rewire
If you live in California, Idaho, Virginia, or Florida and are looking for counseling or therapy, please visit Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center.
NovusMindfulLife.com
We want to hear from you. Please leave us a message or ask us a question: https://www.speakpipe.com/addictedmind
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17:30
336: Dion DiMucci: A Journey of Recovery, Spiritual Awakening, and the Power of Mentorship
Legendary musician Dion DiMucci joins us to share his extraordinary journey of recovery and growth, shedding light on the transformative power of spirituality and mentorship. Known for timeless hits like "Runaround Sue" and "The Wanderer," Dion candidly discusses his battle with addiction and his path to over 57 years of sobriety. He reveals how faith and a 12-step recovery program changed his life, offering profound insights from his co-authored book, "Dion the Rock and Roll Philosopher." Dion's stories are more than just tales of survival; they are lessons in finding purpose and inner peace through a connection with a higher power.
Mentorship takes center stage as we explore its profound impact on personal growth and emotional resilience. Sharing personal anecdotes and wisdom from his mentor, Dion emphasizes the irreplaceable value of genuine human connections over the pursuit of external validations like wealth and power. This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of surrounding oneself with people who can offer perspective and guidance during life's challenges, highlighting that true fulfillment often thrives in the warmth of meaningful relationships and shared wisdom.
In this episode, you will hear:
Dion DiMucci's journey from addiction to over 57 years of sobriety through faith and a 12-step recovery program.
The transformative role of spirituality and mentorship in personal growth and recovery.
Insights from Dion's book "Dion the Rock and Roll Philosopher," emphasizing wisdom, faith, and philosophical reflections.
The significance of genuine human connections and mentorship over material success and external validations.
Exploring the quest for fulfillment beyond professional achievements through self-reflection and humility.
Dion's profound spiritual awakening experience and its impact on his life and relationships.
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
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
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55:13
TAM+ EP71 When Life Gets Overwhelming: The Only 4 Choices That Actually Matter
Have you ever felt completely stuck when facing a difficult situation? Like you're drowning in endless possibilities and can't find your way forward? You're not alone. Most of us get trapped in decision paralysis, overthinking every angle until we're more anxious than when we started.
In this powerful episode, Duane and Eric Osterlind break down a life-changing framework that can transform how you handle any problematic situation. Based on Marshall Linehan's Dialectical Behavior Therapy work, they reveal that no matter how complex your challenge feels, you actually only have four choices available to you.
Download The Worksheet
Whether you're struggling with addiction recovery, facing a major life transition, or simply feeling overwhelmed by daily stressors, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward. The hosts share practical examples of how to apply each choice, including how to reframe withdrawal symptoms as signs of healing and how to use acceptance as a tool for reducing suffering rather than avoiding it.
You'll discover why "staying miserable" is sometimes the right choice and how recognizing this can actually empower you. More importantly, you'll learn how to break free from the endless cycle of "what-ifs" and take meaningful action in your life.
This isn't just theory – it's a practical roadmap that puts you back in the driver's seat of your own life. By the end of this episode, you'll have a simple but powerful tool that can help you navigate any challenge with greater confidence and less overwhelm.
Download The Worksheet
Supporting Resources:
If you live in California, Idaho, Vermont, or Florida and are looking for counseling or therapy, please visit Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center.
NovusMindfulLife.com
We want to hear from you. Please 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
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17:20
335: Taming Dopamine: Understanding Its Influence and Overcoming Addictive Behaviors
Mike Long, the brilliant physicist-turned-writer and co-author of "The Molecule of More," joins us for a riveting conversation on the Addicted Mind Podcast. Together, we dissect the fascinating world of dopamine and its powerful influence over our behavior and experiences. We take a closer look at how this neurotransmitter's relentless push for future rewards often clouds our present joys, impacting everyday actions from gambling to excessive use of social media. Mike's unique perspective bridges natural patterns with human habits, offering profound insights into the mind's complex workings.
In our discussion, we unravel the dual nature of dopamine, painting a vivid picture of its role as both motivator and alert system. Through engaging analogies, like the excitement of Christmas morning, we explore how dopamine shapes our desires and decision-making, propelling us toward imagined futures. Yet, the episode doesn't shy away from recognizing the challenges posed by dopamine's influence, especially in the context of modern technology and its overstimulation. By diving into the science behind neurotransmitters, we underscore the importance of balance in navigating this chemical-driven landscape.
In this episode, you will hear:
Mike Long's exploration of dopamine's dual nature as both a motivator and an alert system
The impact of dopamine on future-focused behaviors and the overshadowing of present joys
Practical strategies to balance dopamine's influence and promote mindful living
Discussion on GLP-1 drugs' potential in curbing cravings and treating addiction
The role of technology in amplifying dopamine-driven habits and solutions for managing screen time
Techniques for fostering personal growth and relationships through intentional living
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
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
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47:41
TAM+ EP70 Why You’re Not Moving Forward: 7 Sneaky Thoughts Holding You Back
Do you ever feel stuck, like something is silently holding you back from achieving your goals in recovery? You’re not alone. On today’s episode of Addicted Mind Plus, hosts Duane and Eric Osterlind tackle a subject that hits close to home for many of us: those sneaky, unhelpful thought patterns called cognitive distortions.
These tricky mental habits can silently sabotage progress and keep us locked in cycles of addiction. From all-or-nothing thinking to blaming yourself for what’s outside your control, these thoughts can feel overwhelming—but they don’t have to define you.
Duane and Eric break down the seven most common cognitive distortions and provide actionable tips to help you challenge and reframe your thinking. Their insights are your roadmap to building a healthier, more empowered mindset.
Why you should listen to this episode:
Uncover how distorted thinking affects recovery choices.
Learn how to trade all-or-nothing thinking for balanced, realistic perspectives.
Find practical strategies to combat negative self-talk and recognize your progress.
Gain tools to reframe mental filters and see your situations more clearly.
Whether you’re working through recovery yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about how our minds work, this episode is packed with powerful lessons to inspire hope and growth.
Don’t miss out on the free companion resource! Download the 7 Sneaky Thoughts Holding You Back Worksheet Here to start reshaping your mindset today.
It’s not just about what’s happening in your life; it’s about how you think about it. And when you approach challenges with clarity and compassion, the path forward becomes clearer.
Tune in now to take the first step toward breaking free!
Key Topics:
The impact of cognitive distortions on addiction
Overcoming all-or-nothing thinking
The power of challenging negative thoughts
Recognizing and reframing mental filters
The importance of acknowledging positive steps in recovery
Timestamps:
[00:01:00] Introduction to cognitive distortions
[00:03:48] Discussing "all or nothing" thinking
[00:05:58] Exploring mental filters and their impact
[00:07:40] Addressing the habit of discounting the positive
[00:09:23] How jumping to conclusions affects us
[00:11:24] The problem with labeling ourselves
[00:13:48] The importance of challenging cognitive distortions
Supporting Resources:
If you live in California, Idaho, Vermont, or Florida and are looking for counseling or therapy, please visit Novus Mindful Life Counseling and Recovery Center.
NovusMindfulLife.com
We want to hear from you. Please 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
"The Addicted Mind Podcast" offers hope, understanding, and guidance for those dealing with addiction, with real stories and research to inspire and show the journey to recovery is worth it.
We're here to do more than just talk about addiction.
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Our talks with experts and people who have beaten addiction give you important insights into how addiction affects the mind and how recovery can happen in many ways. Whether we're looking at new treatment ideas or sharing stories that inspire, "The Addicted Mind Podcast" is all about understanding the complex world of addiction recovery and showing that recovery is possible.
If you or someone you care about is dealing with the challenges of addiction, let "The Addicted Mind Podcast" be your friend and guide. We aim to give you the knowledge you need, share stories that inspire you, and show you that the journey to recovery is worth it.
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