Kira looked like the “good kid.” 3.8 GPA. Band. Job. Involved in everything. Behind the scenes, she was self-harming at 12, drinking at 12, snorting ketamine in the school bathroom, selling alcohol through her locker, and attempting suicide multiple times. At 18, she shaved her head, stopped showering, lived with strangers, and drove 12 hours to Georgia to move in with a man she met online… before barely escaping. Her true rock bottom? A little kid knocking on a drug dealer’s bedroom door asking for his dad. That moment changed everything. Today, Kira is 6+ years clean and sober, graduated from Michigan State, worked in Child Protective Services, and is now pursuing her Master’s in Social Work. This episode is about addiction that doesn’t look “broken,” mental health, grooming, suicide attempts, recovery at 18, and how contentment—not happiness—is the real goal. If you’re struggling, there is hope. Stay. #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #SobrietyJourney #SuicidePrevention #YoungPeopleInRecovery #KetamineAbuse #RecoveryStory #AARecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Logan Houle looked like he had it all. Triple-A hockey. A long-term girlfriend. Good grades. No major trauma. A “normal” life. But behind closed doors, he was blacking out daily by 16… flipping his Jeep while drunk at 17… and later—after getting sober—developing a hidden gambling addiction that led him to wager over $3.7 million in just four months. From stealing from family, draining paychecks in hours, and losing $10,000 in under 60 minutes… to rehab, self-exclusion, faith, and helping the next generation through his podcast New Generation Sobriety — this is one of the most powerful young recovery stories you’ll hear. Addiction isn’t always drugs. Sometimes it’s alcohol. Sometimes it’s gambling. And sometimes it’s the pain underneath it all. If you're struggling, you're not alone. #AddictionRecovery #GamblingAddiction #SobrietyJourney #AlcoholismRecovery #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sponsored by Cozy Earth — elevate your everyday with premium bedding designed for deeper rest and calmer nights. Use code RISEABOVE for up to 20% off at cozyearth.com. Fausto grew up in fear. A narcissistic, abusive father. Sexual abuse at 7 years old. Bullying. Codependency. Addiction to validation. By 14, he was faking his own death on MySpace, getting 5150’d into a psych ward, drinking Jack Daniel’s daily, and chasing ecstasy just to feel normal. By his 20s, he was smoking meth, having 3–5 grand mal seizures a day, overdosing on pills, blacking out on cruises, and attempting suicide more than once. He says alcohol saved his life before it nearly killed him. But that wasn’t even the end. In sobriety, he faced betrayal, family deaths, brain aneurysms, EMDR trauma breakthroughs, and a collapse that almost took him out at six years clean. This is a raw conversation about sexual abuse, addiction, masculinity, forgiveness, service, and protecting your peace. If you’ve ever felt broken, ashamed, or alone… watch this. There is purpose in pain. — Follow Fausto: YouTube / IG / TikTok: @HopeDealers If you’re struggling with addiction or trauma, you are not alone. Reach out. Help exists. #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #MensMentalHealth #SexualAbuseSurvivor #FromRockBottom #5150 #GrandMalSeizures #AARecovery #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sponsored by Cozy Earth — elevate your everyday with premium bedding designed for deeper rest and calmer nights. Use code RISEABOVE for up to 20% off at cozyearth.com. At 23, Jordan Lexell was exposed on national television after appearing on Dr. Phil in an episode titled “Young, Reckless & Enabled.” By 35, she was shooting heroin on the South Side of Chicago, addicted to fentanyl, arrested nearly 30 times, faking drug tests, and living in and out of hotels while facing multiple felonies — including Grand Theft Auto, possession of fentanyl, and her third DUI. She overdosed in her mother’s home. She detoxed in Sarasota County Jail. She was looking at serious prison time. On August 24, 2022, Jordan did her last line of fentanyl pulling into treatment. Today, she’s over three and a half years sober — rebuilding her life from the ground up, repairing her relationship with her mom, grieving her father’s death in sobriety, and proving that even after 30 arrests… redemption is possible. This is a raw, unfiltered conversation about: Heroin & fentanyl addiction Being enabled by family Fake rehab culture vs state-funded treatment Jail detox and felony probation Brain recovery after opioids Losing a parent in sobriety Rebuilding from rock bottom If you or someone you love is battling addiction — this episode is proof that no one is too far gone. Recovery is possible. #FentanylCrisis #HeroinAddiction #DrPhil #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #GrandTheftAuto #OpioidEpidemic #RiseAbove #RecoveryIsPossible #FelonToFreedom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spencer Forester had the dream résumé. CPA. 4.0 student. Six-figure career. Big firm promotions. But behind closed doors? He was drinking at 6:30 AM just to steady his hands. What started as weekend partying turned into round-the-clock alcohol dependence. Hallucinations. Severe esophagitis. Resting heart rate over 150. Doctors debated ICU. One doctor told him directly: “Rehab is going to save your life. You’re going to die if you don’t go.” Instead of disappearing, Spencer raised his hand and asked for help. Three meetings a day. Calling sober men constantly. Rebuilding from zero. Now 2.5 years sober, he left his CPA career and is building something in the recovery space to help others. This episode is proof that addiction does not discriminate. You can look successful on the outside and still be dying on the inside. If you’re struggling — raise your hand. Ask for help. You don’t have to go through it alone. Follow Spencer: @sober.spenny Follow Rise Above for more real recovery stories. #AlcoholAddiction #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryIsPossible #DetoxStory #AARecovery #AddictionRecovery #SoberLife #MensRecovery #HealingJourney #RaiseYourHand Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sponsored by Cozy Earth — elevate your everyday with premium bedding designed for deeper rest and calmer nights. Use code RISEABOVE for up to 20% off at cozyearth.com. Blake Bilder went from a small-town kid in Minnesota to signing with the UFC… but behind the fights was chaos no one saw. Blackout drinking. Adderall and cocaine. Microdosing mushrooms every day. Taking LSD before a UFC fight. Smuggling 81 pounds of weed. Arrested before his debut. Facing federal charges. His brother’s suicide. Ayahuasca ceremonies deep in the Amazon jungle. At the height of his career, Blake was spiraling. In this raw interview, Blake opens up about nearly ending his life, relapsing in sobriety, cartel involvement, fighting on psychedelics, prison time, and the moment he finally surrendered and asked for help. This is a story about ego, faith, shame, redemption, and what it really costs to chase greatness. If you’re struggling with addiction, depression, or suicidal thoughts — you are not alone. Watch until the end. #RiseAbove #UFC #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #BlakeBilder #RiseAbove #Psychedelics #AyahuascaExperience #MMAFighter #FromAddictionToRecovery #SuicideAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sponsored by Cozy Earth — elevate your everyday with premium bedding designed for deeper rest and calmer nights. Use code RISEABOVE for up to 20% off at cozyearth.com. Evan grew up in a good Italian family on Long Island. Loving parents. Sunday dinners. Sports. No trauma to blame. By 12, he was smoking weed. By high school, he was selling cocaine. By his early 20s, he was running mortgage fraud in Florida. After his father tragically took his own life, Evan spiraled deeper into addiction — first pills, then heroin, then meth. In California, he built a sophisticated mail theft and credit card fraud operation, stealing checks directly from post office boxes, washing them with chemicals, and cashing out thousands of dollars a day. He was arrested 18 times. When the feds finally caught him, he was facing serious prison time. Behind bars during COVID lockdown, locked in a cell for months, starving and isolated, Evan made a decision that would change his life forever. Today, he’s sober, rebuilding his relationship with his children, and running operations at one of the fastest-growing supplement companies in the country. This is a story about greed, addiction, federal prison, and what happens when you finally stop running. If you’re struggling — don’t give up. #FederalPrison #FraudStory #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddict #RedemptionStory #TrueCrimeStory #RiseAbove #SoberLife #PrisonStory #FromPrisonToPurpose #RecoveryJourney #ExConSuccess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steven Clark was living two lives. From delivering cocaine between California and Hawaii and serving over five years in federal prison… to managing some of the biggest names in professional surfing — including world champions during the height of the Andy Irons and Kelly Slater era. On paper, he had it all. Global travel. Elite athletes. Money. Status. Behind the scenes? Alcohol. Drugs. Ego. Emptiness. At 50 years old, sitting at a high-profile event surrounded by celebrities and legends, Steven realized he had never felt more alone. That night he asked God for help. The next day, a childhood friend showed up and took him to his first AA meeting. He hasn’t had a drink since. In this episode of Rise Above, we talk about: • Federal prison and mandatory minimums • Surf industry fame and managing world champions • High-functioning addiction in elite environments • Andy Irons’ impact on him personally • The moment of clarity that changed everything • 90 meetings in 90 days • Making amends • Life on life’s terms • Finding real fulfillment in sobriety This is a story about ego, consequences, humility, and spiritual transformation. If you're struggling, know this: You don’t have to feel that way again. #AddictionRecovery #FederalPrison #SurfCulture #AARecovery #RiseAbovePodcast #SobrietyJourney #KellySlater #AndyIrons #CocaineTrafficking #HighFunctioningAddict Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Landon Finn had everything going for him. Good grades. Fraternity president. Bright future. But behind closed doors he was drinking at 7AM, tripping on LSD four times a week, blacking out in a Bugs Bunny costume, and hearing voices that weren’t there. He lied to his parents. He lied to his sponsor. He lied to himself. After passing out behind the wheel and landing in acute kidney failure at 21 years old, doctors told him if he showed up a few hours later… he wouldn’t be here. This is the raw story of alcoholism, psychosis, relapse, overdose loss, humility, and rebuilding a life from rock bottom. Three years sober. University of Colorado recovery center leader. Working to open treatment centers and change the system. This is what choosing life looks like. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, this episode could save a life. #AddictionRecovery #Alcoholism #SobrietyJourney #RockBottom #MentalHealth #LSDTrip #Psychosis #YoungAndSober #RecoveryIsPossible #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Hollywood stardom to rock bottom—and everything in between. In this raw and emotional conversation, Lillo Brancato opens up like never before about his rise to fame in A Bronx Tale, early success alongside legends like Robert De Niro, and how addiction quietly took over his life. Lillo shares the brutal reality of heroin addiction, overdosing while incarcerated at Rikers Island, surviving prison, and taking full accountability for his past. With nearly 20 years sober, he reflects on guilt, responsibility, faith, prison life, and what it truly means to make living amends. This is not a story of excuses—this is a story of ownership, consequences, and redemption. If you or someone you love struggles with addiction, this episode offers hope, honesty, and a reminder that change is possible—even after the darkest chapters. #LilloBrancato #ABronxTale #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddiction #PrisonToPurpose #SobrietyJourney #LivingAmends #RikersIsland #RedemptionStory #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Cali Estes returns for a raw continuation of her first appearance on Rise Above — this time diving even deeper into the realities of addiction, trauma, detox, and what’s broken in the recovery system. In this episode, we unpack why addiction is often mislabeled as the problem, how trauma and body chemistry drive destructive behavior, and why many traditional treatment models fail to address the root causes of addiction. Dr. Estes draws from decades on the front lines — working with addicts, families, executives, and high-profile clients — to expose the uncomfortable truths about detox, misdiagnosis, narcissism, medication, relapse, and healing from the inside out. This is not a motivational talk. It’s an honest conversation about addiction, recovery, and the systems meant to help — but often don’t. 📺 Watch her first interview here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFxArXAs0aM #AddictionRecovery #DrCaliEstes #MentalHealth #RecoveryJourney #AddictionTruth #SobrietyTalk #HealingTrauma #TherapyThatWorks #RehabTruth #MindBodyHealing #AddictionPodcast #RecoveryPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She was a high-powered executive, running multimillion-dollar businesses, praised for her hustle and feared in boardrooms — until addiction took over. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Margo Siewert opens up about a life fueled by alcohol, cocaine, ego, and control… and the devastating collapse that followed. From growing up as the daughter of a high-functioning alcoholic, to surviving divorce while pregnant, to nearly dying during childbirth, to building a booming company while quietly spiraling into addiction — everything eventually caught up. When her husband battled terminal cancer, her son was diagnosed with cancer, and her addiction finally came into the light, Margo lost everything she thought defined her. What followed was surrender, rehab, grief, and an unexpected reconnection with faith that changed the trajectory of her life forever. This episode dives deep into: • Cocaine addiction in high-level corporate life • Ego, power, and the illusion of control • Trauma, grief, and survival • Losing your identity — and rebuilding it • Faith, surrender, and recovery • Life after rock bottom This is not a highlight reel. It’s a redemption story — told honestly, painfully, and without filters. If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone. #AddictionRecovery #CocaineAddiction #FaithOverFear #RockBottom #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #WomenInRecovery #GriefAndRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #LifeAfterAddiction #RecoveryIsPossible #AlcoholAndCocaine #FromAddictionToPurpose #RawAndReal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and powerful episode, Lindsey Schaefer shares her story of growing up in a broken home, being abandoned by her mother, and entering foster care at a young age. From childhood trauma and instability to addiction, strip club life, and nearly losing everything, Lindsey walks us through the moments that shaped her—and the turning point that led her to sobriety. Lindsey opens up about being removed from her home, bouncing between foster placements, early exposure to alcohol, surviving overdose, and finding her identity in environments fueled by drugs and nightlife. She also shares how the gym, self-discipline, therapy, and purpose helped her rebuild her life and stay sober for over four years. This is a story about resilience, accountability, and learning how to live life on life’s terms—without numbing the pain. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, trauma, or recovery, this episode is for you. #addictionrecovery #sobrietystory #fostercare #childhoodtrauma #traumarecovery #stripclublife #mentalhealthawareness #recoveryjourney #lifesobriety #healingjourney #riseabovepodcast #recoveryispossible Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this deeply honest episode of Rise Above, Brianna Sirlin shares her unfiltered journey through addiction, relapse, and recovery during the height of the opioid epidemic. Growing up on Long Island, Brianna’s story didn’t start with trauma on the surface — it started with insecurity, anxiety, and the need to feel “enough.” What began with alcohol, weed, Xanax, and Adderall quickly escalated into painkillers, oxy, fentanyl, and years of chaos that included drug dealing, being robbed, multiple rehabs, overdoses, and near-death experiences. In this episode, Brianna opens up about: Her first exposure to substances in middle school Boarding schools, wilderness programs, and resentment Discovering opiates and the moment everything changed Suboxone withdrawal and repeated relapse cycles Overdosing, fentanyl use, and isolation in Los Angeles Finding recovery through AA, faith, and taking suggestions How sobriety reshaped her identity, career, and purpose Working in recovery and helping others today This conversation is raw, emotional, and hopeful — a reminder that no matter how deep addiction goes, recovery is possible. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode may help you feel less alone. #BriannaSirlin #AddictionRecovery #FentanylCrisis #OpiateAddiction #OpioidEpidemic #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryPodcast #RelapseAndRecovery #AARecovery #FaithInRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #RiseAbovePodcast #LongIsland #WomensRecovery #AddictionAwareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special Q&A episode, Kevin Lanning from Rise Above with Kevin Lanning sits down with Louis Ruggiero from Nothing’s Off the Table with Louis Ruggiero for an honest, unscripted conversation answering the most common addiction and sobriety questions from both of our audiences. These questions were pulled directly from comments and DMs across both podcasts — real questions from real people navigating addiction, early sobriety, relapse, recovery, and life after substances. This episode is for: Anyone struggling with addiction or alcoholism People who are sober, newly sober, or thinking about getting sober Those who’ve relapsed and want to come back Parents, partners, and loved ones of addicts Anyone looking for real, experience-based recovery insight Topics covered include: How we actually got sober and what finally worked Cravings vs obsession — what changes over time Relapse and how to come back without shame Weed and sobriety AA, spirituality, and other recovery paths Dating, weddings, and social life while sober Parenting, making amends, and rebuilding trust Trauma, mental health, and emotional sobriety Tough love vs enabling What long-term recovery really looks like No fluff. No preaching. Just two people in recovery answering the questions we get asked every day. If you or someone you love is struggling, you’re not alone — and recovery is possible. #AddictionRecovery #HowToGetSober #Sobriety #RecoveryQandA #Alcoholism #DrugAddiction #RelapseRecovery #EarlySobriety #MentalHealth #AARecovery #AddictionHelp #StayingSober #RecoveryCommunity #SoberLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first time, Kevin Lanning and Louis Ruggiero pull the curtain back. After Hours with Kevin & LJ is a new mini-series created because you asked for it — a real, unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at our lives, conversations, and perspectives when the cameras aren’t “on.” This series isn’t about perfectly structured interviews or polished narratives. It’s about real talk, recovery, friendship, growth, business, mistakes, and the moments that usually happen after the episode ends. In this first episode, Kevin and Louis sit down without an agenda and share candid thoughts on: Life behind the podcast Recovery beyond the microphone What listeners don’t usually get to hear The personal side of building platforms, friendships, and purpose This is raw. This is honest. This is After Hours. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when the show stops recording — this is it. 👇 Let us know in the comments what you want to see more of in this series. #AfterHours #BehindTheScenes #RealTalk #PodcastLife #RecoveryJourney #SobrietyTalk #MentalHealth #LifeAfterAddiction #UnfilteredConversations #KevinLanning #LouisRuggiero Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Shooty had it all on the outside — a successful career in high-level security, executive protection, and international risk mitigation. On the inside, he was quietly losing everything. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Mike opens up about growing up in a stable home, starting to drink at 14, binge drinking through college, and how alcohol slowly took control of his life. After multiple attempts at sobriety, he turned to OxyContin to stop drinking—only to find himself deeper in addiction. Mike shares the terrifying reality of opioid withdrawal, hiding addiction in plain sight, losing his marriage, multiple DUIs, homelessness, and hitting a point so dark he nearly didn’t survive it. His story also dives into the shame of addiction, missing years of fatherhood, and the long road to rebuilding trust. Now over 3 years sober, Mike is deeply involved in recovery—speaking publicly, helping other men navigate sobriety, divorce, legal trouble, and life after addiction. This episode is about surrender, accountability, and what it really takes to change your life when everything has fallen apart. If you or someone you love is struggling, this conversation could be the one that helps. #AddictionRecovery #Alcoholism #OpiateAddiction #DUI #SobrietyJourney #ExecutiveBodyguard #FromAddictionToRecovery #RockBottom #RecoveryIsPossible #MentalHealthMatters #RiseAbove #SoberLife #RedemptionStory #OneDayAtATime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dave Marquess grew up in chaos—raised by addict parents, hustling for survival as a child, and spiraling into drugs by his early teens. By his twenties, Dave was deep in PCP, oxy, heroin, and cocaine, running the streets of Kensington, in and out of jail, and living in full-blown addiction and psychosis. In this raw conversation, Dave opens up about: Growing up with parents addicted to meth and heroin Juvenile detention at 14 and fighting authority at every turn Smoking PCP before school and getting expelled Selling drugs, escort driving, and total moral collapse Calling his own mother to learn how to shoot heroin Experiencing brutal jail withdrawals that nearly killed him The exact moment he said “I’m done”—and meant it Today, Dave is nearly 10 years sober, living with purpose, creativity, and service. He’s the creator of the recovery-based card game Relapse or Recovery, designed to help people connect, reflect, and heal in sobriety. This episode is for anyone who thinks they’re too far gone. Dave proves that no matter how dark it gets—recovery is possible. #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddiction #Kensington #RecoveryIsPossible #JailToRecovery #OpiateEpidemic #SobrietyJourney #FromAddictionToRecovery #CleanAndSober #RecoveryPodcast #MentalHealthMatters #12StepRecovery #TraumaHealing #LifeAfterAddiction #RiseAbove #RecoveryStories #HopeAfterAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Crystal Ambroselli’s story is raw, heartbreaking, and ultimately life-saving. Raised in a home shaped by alcoholism, chaos, and secrecy, Crystal was exposed to addiction at a young age. By 12, she was in treatment. By 15, she was a pregnant teen mom. By 17, she was smoking crack. At 19, she overdosed on fentanyl-laced cocaine and was clinically dead for 10 minutes. This episode dives deep into: • Growing up with an alcoholic father and generational trauma • Teen pregnancy, betrayal, and family collapse • Heavy drug use while raising a child • A near-fatal overdose that should have ended her life • Hitting bottom — mentally, emotionally, and spiritually • Finally surrendering and building real recovery Today, Crystal is 18 months sober, rebuilding trust with her family, and doing the hard work to become the healthy mother her daughter deserves. This isn’t just a sobriety story — it’s about identity, survival, accountability, and choosing life when everything feels broken. If you’re struggling, feel alone, or think it’s “not that bad yet”… this episode might save your life. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #OverdoseSurvivor #FentanylCrisis #TeenMom #CrackAddiction #SobrietyJourney #NearDeathExperience #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible #OneDayAtATime #SoberLife #TraumaHealing #SurvivorStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Austin’s story is one of the most intense, raw, and honest recovery journeys ever shared on Rise Above. After 7 years sober, Austin relapsed—triggered by success, ego, and untreated trauma. What followed was a devastating downward spiral: 🔹 Crack, benzos, kratom, and gambling addiction 🔹 A near-fatal overdose at the Hard Rock Hotel 🔹 20 months running from his life in Mexico, embedded in cartel territory 🔹 Losing millions, his marriage, and himself 🔹 Multiple rehabs, jail, and starting over—again and again But this isn’t just a relapse story. It’s a redemption story. Austin opens up about trauma, pride, fatherhood, faith vs. spirituality, why kratom nearly destroyed him, and what finally changed after decades of trying to stay sober on his own terms. Today, he’s a present father of five, active in recovery, and the author of One Last Hit. This episode is a must-watch for anyone struggling with addiction, relapse, ego, success, or the belief that “this time will be different.” 👉 If relapse has ever been part of your story—or someone you love—this one will hit home. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #RelapseStory #OverdoseSurvivor #HardRockHotel #KratomAwareness #CrackAddiction #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryIsPossible #12StepRecovery #Alcoholism #DrugAddiction #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaHealing #Fatherhood #SecondChances #RedemptionStory #LifeAfterRelapse Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amy Simmonds had everything from the outside — a thriving real estate career, a family, success — but inside she was slowly being destroyed by alcohol. In this raw and powerful conversation, Amy opens up about her childhood wounds, blackouts, relapse after years sober, and the moment she finally surrendered. She shares how grief — especially the sudden loss of her mother — became the catalyst for a deeper calling: a mission to break the stigma around addiction and show others that recovery is not just possible, it’s powerful. Amy is now 12.5 years sober and launching a new movement rooted in honesty, faith, service, and daily commitment. This episode dives into: The hidden alcoholism that no one talks about Relapsing after long-term sobriety Alcohol as a “solution” that quietly becomes the problem Grief, pain, and staying sober through unimaginable loss Why helping others is the key to lasting recovery Breaking the stigma for professionals who “look put together” If you or someone you love is struggling, this conversation could be the sign you’ve been waiting for. 📌 Recovery is not about perfection — it’s about connection. #RiseAbove #Sobriety #Alcoholism #RecoveryJourney #WomensRecovery #BreakingTheStigma #SoberLife #AddictionRecovery #OneDayAtATime #HealingThroughService Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Romaine Campbell is a police officer, husband, father, and a man of unshakable faith — but in 2019, his life was shattered forever. Romaine’s two-year-old son, Hayden Campbell, was rushed to the hospital brain-dead, with a fractured skull and signs of blunt force trauma. The explanation given? “They said he fell out of a bed.” Medical evidence told a different story. In this raw and heartbreaking conversation, Romaine opens up about the night he received the phone call no parent should ever get — learning that his son was fighting for his life after being left alone with his mother’s boyfriend. Despite devastating injuries, the man responsible was granted bond and walked free while Romaine buried his child. This episode goes far beyond the tragedy. Romaine shares: The disturbing details surrounding Hayden’s death What it’s like being a law enforcement officer while your own child’s killer is free The rage, grief, and temptation for revenge — and why he didn’t act on it How grief nearly destroyed his marriage The painful mistakes he made while grieving How faith, accountability, and humility saved his life Why “it’s okay to not be okay” How he turned unimaginable loss into purpose Romaine is also the author of Rooted in Resilience, a deeply personal book about faith, grief, and rebuilding after loss, and is creating a nonprofit to honor Hayden’s legacy through mental health and domestic violence awareness. This is not just a story about loss — it’s a story about restraint, resilience, and choosing not to let tragedy create another victim. ⚠️ Viewer discretion advised. This episode contains sensitive material involving child abuse and death. If this story reaches even one parent, one grieving family, or one person standing at a breaking point — it has done its job. #TrueCrime #JusticeForHayden #Grief #PoliceOfficer #ChildAbuseAwareness #FaithOverVengeance #MurderCase #LawEnforcementStories #FathersGrief #RiseAbove #HealingAfterLoss #MentalHealthAwareness #DomesticViolenceAwareness #Resilience #UnfilteredTruth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When someone you love is struggling with mental illness or addiction, the pain doesn’t stop with them — the family feels it too. In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Brittany Bennett, a licensed mental health counselor specializing in supporting families who love someone diagnosed with conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and substance use disorders. We talk about: Why families often feel shut out, confused, or helpless The stigma around mental health and addiction — and how it hurts loved ones Self-medication, undiagnosed ADHD, and the link between mental health and sobriety When therapy is actually needed (not just during crisis) Boundaries vs. enabling — and when distance may be necessary Why self-care isn’t selfish for family members One-on-one therapy vs. support groups Supporting someone without losing yourself Brittany also shares her personal journey into the mental health field, her experience working in prisons, and insights from her book Selfish Is the New Selfless, which reframes self-care as a necessity — not a luxury. If you’re supporting a partner, child, parent, or loved one with mental illness or addiction, this episode will help you feel seen, understood, and less alone. 👉 If this conversation helps you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. #MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionRecovery #FamilySupport #MentalHealthMatters #SobrietyJourney #TherapyWorks #BipolarDisorder #ADHD #SelfCareIsNotSelfish #HealingFamilies #BreakingTheStigma #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Becky’s story is one of survival at every level. She was sexually abused as a child, adopted into a strict household, and later diagnosed with aggressive cancer just one month after giving birth. Doctors told her she’d be lucky to see her son turn five. She beat cancer—multiple times. But the unresolved trauma, years of surgeries, and being told her life was a ticking clock led her down a darker path. Becky fell into severe alcoholism, stole hundreds of thousands of dollars, lost her marriage, and was eventually sentenced to three years in prison. Even behind bars, cancer returned. Shackled in a hospital bed during radiation treatment, Becky hit a bottom unlike anything she’d ever known. What followed was a brutal reckoning with addiction, accountability, and ultimately, surrender. In this episode, Becky opens up about: Childhood sexual abuse and the lifelong impact of secrecy Being told she wouldn’t live to raise her son Alcoholism that escalated after years of trauma Prison, cancer treatment behind bars, and total loss The exact moment she finally surrendered and got sober Rebuilding her relationship with her son and finding purpose again Becky has now been sober since 2011 and serves as COO of her son’s company—built from the pain of their separation and transformed into something meaningful. This is a powerful conversation about trauma, addiction, resilience, and what it really means to rise after losing everything. If this episode helps even one person feel less alone, it’s worth sharing. #AddictionRecovery #SurvivorStory #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #LifeAfterPrison #CancerSurvivor #AlcoholismRecovery #RiseAbove #RedemptionStory #MentalHealthMatters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Juliet Warner shares her raw, unfiltered journey through addiction, relapse, recovery, and redemption. From a lonely childhood and early substance use to rehabs, relapse after nearly a decade sober, and ultimately rebuilding her life, marriage, and purpose—this conversation is a powerful reminder that addiction doesn’t always look the way we expect. #AddictionRecovery#RelapseAndRecovery#SobrietyJourney#AlcoholismAwareness#RecoveryStories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DJ ActRight sits down with Kevin Lanning to share his powerful journey from active addiction to over 2.5 years sober — all while living a true double life. By day, he’s a middle school teacher in West Virginia. By night and on weekends, he’s touring the country as Petey Pablo’s DJ, performing in packed venues where alcohol and temptation are everywhere. After a DUI became his wake-up call, DJ ActRight made the decision to get sober and hold himself accountable — even behind the DJ booth. In this episode, DJ ActRight opens up about: The shame and mental battles of active addiction Why “once I started, I couldn’t stop” didn’t look how people expect Getting sober in party environments and staying accountable Touring sober, support from artists and bartenders, and setting boundaries Marriage, living amends, and rebuilding trust Why there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery This is a raw, honest conversation about discipline, purpose, and proving to yourself — one day at a time — that change is possible. If this episode helps even one person, it’s done its job. #RiseAbovePodcast #SoberJourney #Sobriety #RecoveryIsPossible #DJLife #FromAddictionToPurpose #SoberLiving #MentalHealth #LivingAmends #OneDayAtATime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michelle Falco opens up about the hidden battle she fought for years — an eating disorder rooted in anxiety, ADHD, perfectionism, and a deep fear of not being enough. Connect with Michelle on IG: andhaleco In this powerful conversation, Michelle shares: How her eating disorder began in adolescence The role dissociation, OCD traits, and intrusive thoughts played Why going to treatment in 2018 changed — and saved — her life Leaving a successful career in advertising to pursue purpose Becoming a licensed social worker and helping others heal Building a mindfulness-based wellness brand with her husband This episode is a raw look at what suffering can look like behind a “normal” life — and how recovery, humility, and self-awareness can lead to a completely new path. If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, or addiction, this conversation may help you feel less alone. You are not broken. You are human. And healing is possible. #EatingDisorderRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #DisorderedEating #RecoveryJourney #AnxietyHealing #ADHDAwareness #MindfulnessPractice #HealingStory #WomenInRecovery #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amy spent decades battling addiction in different forms—anorexia, obsession, control, and ultimately alcohol. From hiding vodka in her bedroom while raising her kids to blacking out during COVID, Amy lived a double life that nearly cost her everything. In this raw and emotional conversation, Amy shares how childhood trauma, OCD, eating disorders, toxic relationships, and owning bars all fueled her addiction. She opens up about the terrifying moments her kids found her passed out, the shame of hiding bottles, and the day her family finally said the words she’d been praying to hear: “You need help.” Three years sober, Amy proves that recovery is possible—even when alcohol is everywhere—and that sobriety isn’t about willpower, but healing the mind behind the addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode could be the one that helps you take the first step. #Alcoholism #RecoveryJourney #Sobriety #AddictionRecovery #EatingDisorderRecovery #AnorexiaAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #FamilyDisease #RiseAbove #OneDayAtATime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andrew’s story is a raw, unfiltered look at what severe alcoholism actually looks like behind the scenes. From growing up with crippling anxiety and a heart condition, to discovering alcohol at 18 and immediately losing control, Andrew spiraled into years of relapse, hospitalizations, psych wards, self-harm, legal consequences, and 13 rehab attempts — all before the age of 27. He drank every morning, worked remote jobs while intoxicated, ran from police during a wellness check involving helicopters and K-9 units, and endured life-threatening alcohol withdrawals that landed him in ambulances and ERs multiple times in a single night. In this episode, Andrew breaks down: Why willpower and discipline never worked for him How anxiety, fear, and control fueled his addiction What alcohol withdrawal really feels like Why alcohol and benzos are among the most dangerous withdrawals How understanding addiction as a disease changed everything The exact moment he surrendered and finally stayed sober Today, Andrew is over 2.5 years sober, living with purpose, helping others, and proving that even when everything looks lost, recovery is still possible. This episode is for: Anyone struggling with alcohol or addiction Loved ones trying to understand the disease People who keep relapsing and feel hopeless Anyone who believes they’ve “tried everything” If this story helps even one person, it’s worth telling. #Alcoholism #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryIsPossible #MentalHealthAwareness #AlcoholRecovery #LifeInRecovery #RelapseRecovery #PsychWardSurvivor #AddictionIsADisease #NearDeathExperience #SobrietyStories #TraumaHealing #AnxietyRecovery #SubstanceAbuseRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #RiseAbovePodcast #SoberLife #SoberCommunity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neva Coleman shares her raw and deeply honest journey through high-functioning alcoholism, trauma, perfectionism, and getting sober at a young age — long before her life “looked” like it was falling apart. In this episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, Neva opens up about growing up in New Jersey, losing her father in the 9/11 attacks, excelling academically and socially, and how alcohol slowly became her coping mechanism. What started as “normal college drinking” at Tulane University escalated into blackouts, extreme anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and a terrifying 3-day Mardi Gras bender that led her to call the suicide hotline. Despite near-death moments, being roofied, severe withdrawals, and repeated attempts to moderate, Neva continued drinking — a reality many people in active addiction know all too well. This conversation dives into the truth about alcohol use disorder, why “high-functioning” doesn’t mean healthy, and how denial can keep someone stuck for years. Neva also talks candidly about: Getting sober in her early 20s Why she didn’t identify as an alcoholic at first Trying moderation and why it failed Anxiety, perfectionism, and people-pleasing The loneliness of early sobriety Finding community through AA and therapy Healing her relationship with her mother Using social media to break stigma and help others This episode is for anyone who: Thinks their drinking isn’t “bad enough” Is successful on the outside but struggling inside Is afraid sobriety means life will be boring Is sober-curious, newly sober, or struggling in silence If this conversation resonates with you, you are not alone — and help is available. Neva's Tiktok & IG: soberpartygirlll 🎧 New episodes of Rise Above every week. 📩 If this episode helped you, consider sharing it with someone who needs it. #RiseAbovePodcast #SobrietyJourney #HighFunctioningAlcoholic #AlcoholismRecovery #YoungSobriety #MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionRecovery #AARecovery #WomenInRecovery #SoberLife #SoberCommunity #RecoveryIsPossible #AlcoholUseDisorder #TraumaHealing #AnxietyRecovery #LifeAfterAlcohol #SoberCurious #BreakingTheStigma #HealingJourney #OneDayAtATime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and deeply emotional episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, Caylene shares the full truth of her battle with alcoholism — a battle that nearly cost her life. What began as “normal” wine drinking slowly escalated into daily dependence, hiding alcohol around her home, drinking before work, and waking up shaking until her first sip. During COVID, her addiction spiraled until her family staged an intervention that saved her life. Soon after, doctors diagnosed Caylene with end-stage liver disease and cirrhosis. She experienced severe alcohol withdrawal, hallucinations, massive fluid buildup that made her look pregnant for over a year, repeated hospitalizations, invasive medical procedures, and was placed on the liver transplant list. Over the course of two years sober, Caylene endured: Liver failure and cirrhosis Weekly and twice-weekly fluid drainage procedures Withdrawal without rehab Life-threatening hospitalizations Emergency surgery removing part of her intestines A TIPS procedure that ultimately saved her life Today, Caylene is over two years sober, medically stable, and using her story to help others who feel trapped in addiction. This episode is a reminder that alcoholism doesn’t always look chaotic — until it suddenly is. And that it’s never too late to ask for help. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode may save a life. #RiseAbove #AlcoholismRecovery #LiverFailure #CirrhosisRecovery #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #AlcoholAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible #EndStageLiverDisease #SoberLife #HealingStories #MentalHealthMatters #WomensRecovery #OneDayAtATime #HopeAfterAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tony had everything on the outside — money, sales success, status, and opportunity — but inside he was spiraling fast. In this episode of Rise Above, Tony opens up about his descent into gambling addiction, Adderall abuse, cocaine use, and a terrifying 5-day stimulant binge that nearly cost him his life. What began as discipline and ambition turned into obsession, hallucinations, paranoia, and suicidal thoughts. Tony shares: How gambling became his first addiction at just 16 Making over $100,000 playing poker and losing it all How Adderall fueled sales success — then completely rewired his brain Snorting prescription stimulants just to feel normal A 5-day binge that led to hallucinations, psychosis, and thoughts of jumping Losing trust, money, relationships, and self-identity Why quitting Adderall was harder than quitting drugs How faith, discipline, and small daily wins rebuilt his life Finding peace, purpose, and sobriety after surrendering everything Today, Tony is over a year and a half sober, a present husband and father, financially stable, debt-free, grounded in faith, and finally at peace. This is a raw conversation about addiction that doesn’t get talked about enough — prescription drugs, performance addiction, and the dangerous lie of “success at any cost.” If you’re struggling, questioning your choices, or feeling trapped in a cycle you can’t escape — this episode is for you. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #AdderallAddiction #GamblingAddiction #PrescriptionDrugAbuse #RecoveryJourney #FaithAndRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #FromAddictionToRecovery #SoberLife #SpiritualAwakening #RedemptionStory #RecoveryIsPossible #ChristianTestimony #LifeAfterAddiction #BreakingAddiction #SalesBurnout #HighFunctioningAddict Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Millicent Huser is a conscious leadership practitioner, trauma-informed mentor, and recovery professional with over 22 years of sobriety and more than two decades working in mental health, addiction treatment, and organizational leadership. In this episode of Rise Above, Millicent explains why putting down alcohol was only the beginning of her journey. Years into sobriety, unresolved trauma, insecurity, and emotional patterns resurfaced — forcing her to confront the deeper inner work required to stay sober, grounded, and fulfilled long-term. Millicent shares how her work today focuses on emotional sobriety, trauma healing, habit transformation, and conscious leadership, helping individuals and organizations create environments where people can grow without burnout, shame, or control. Drawing from her experience working with treatment centers, executive teams, and leaders, she breaks down how workplace culture, identity, and unhealed wounds can quietly undermine recovery — even decades later. This conversation goes beyond addiction and speaks to anyone who has done “the right things” but still feels lost, disconnected, or unfulfilled. Millicent’s upcoming book, Answering the Call, offers a blueprint for conscious leadership and living with purpose — in recovery, work, and life. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #22YearsSober #RecoveryJourney #SecondAwakening #EmotionalSobriety #ConsciousLeadership #HealingTrauma #PurposeDrivenLife #MentalHealth #SpiritualGrowth #PersonalTransformation #RecoveryIsPossible #BreakingCycles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning is one of the most intense, raw, and powerful stories we’ve ever shared. Jana began using painkillers at 14 years old, progressed to shooting heroin daily, and by 18 was homeless, blacklisted by drug dealers, and clinically dead after an overdose so severe she left her body. In this interview, Jana shares: Growing up in chaos and trauma Dating dangerous drug dealers as a teenager Shooting heroin, meth, and crack A near-death experience where she watched herself turn blue Being told she had to return to her body Surviving homelessness, addiction, and overwhelming survivor’s guilt Getting sober at 19 years old Using methadone and Suboxone when few believed in medication-assisted recovery Rebuilding her nervous system, faith, and identity Losing her younger brother to suicide And building a life today filled with purpose, discipline, love, and freedom Jana now has 14 years sober and lives a life rooted in honesty, movement, faith, and service. This is not just a story about addiction— It’s a story about why people use, how trauma lives in the body, and what it really takes to stay sober. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode could save a life. #RiseAbove #HeroinAddiction #RecoveryStory #AddictionRecovery #NearDeathExperience #SobrietyJourney #OpiateEpidemic #MentalHealth #TraumaHealing #MethadoneRecovery #SuboxoneRecovery #HomelessToHope #SoberLife #HealingJourney #SecondChances Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Larkin’s story is one of the most powerful comeback stories you’ll hear. In this episode of Rise Above, Adam opens up about his journey from a middle-class upbringing in New York to years of addiction, drug dealing, near-death trauma, and survivor’s guilt after a horrific car accident that took his best friend’s life. What followed was nearly two decades of opioid dependence — OxyContin, methadone, Suboxone, benzos — all prescribed, all destructive. Adam takes us deep into the realities of long-term addiction, pharmaceutical dependency, and how relapse can happen even after years of sobriety. But this is a story about coming back. Adam shares how he finally found freedom, rebuilt his life from the ground up at age 37, and turned his pain into purpose. Today, he’s sober, engaged, running a successful clothing brand (GET Apparel – “Get In The Trough”), hosting global recovery events across multiple continents, working in the recovery field, and helping others find a way out. This conversation dives into: Early addiction and the first drink Survivor’s guilt and trauma Prescription opioids and long-term Suboxone use Relapse after years of sobriety — and how he made it back Faith, structure, accountability, and purpose Building a business and a life in recovery Why it’s never too late to start over If you’re struggling, thinking about getting sober, or afraid you’ve gone too far — this episode is for you. Everyone loves a comeback story. This is a real one. GET Apparel: getapparel.com Podcast: Get Up Podcast with Adam Larkin Socials: @GI_Apparel | Adam Larkin 🔗 Follow Adam Larkin #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #RecoveryStory #RelapseAndRecovery #OpiateAddiction #SuboxoneRecovery #FormerAddict #ComebackStory #SecondChances #MentalHealth #RecoveryIsPossible #SoberLife #AddictionAwareness #FaithAndRecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Garet McLendon spent years trapped in a cycle of addiction, violence, and incarceration — selling meth, surviving prison riots, and losing everything that mattered most, including his relationship with his daughter. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Garet opens up about: Growing up surrounded by abuse, instability, and addiction Dropping out of school and running the streets Selling meth and cycling in and out of jail and prison Witnessing extreme violence, riots, and survival inside the system The moment he finally surrendered and chose sobriety Rebuilding life from nothing at 33 years old Learning how to be a present, trustworthy father after years of absence Why discipline, structure, and inner work saved his life Now approaching 13 years clean and sober, Garet lives a life rooted in gratitude, discipline, and service — proving that no matter how far gone you think you are, it’s never too late to start over. This episode is for anyone struggling with addiction, incarceration, shame, or feeling “too far behind” to change. If this story helped you, consider sharing it with someone who needs hope. #AddictionRecovery #PrisonToPurpose #SoberLiving #RecoveryStory #LifeAfterPrison #FormerAddict #SobrietyJourney #MethAddiction #SecondChances #RedemptionStory #MentalHealthMatters #Fatherhood #TraumaRecovery #RiseAbove #Incarceration #RebuildingLife #HopeAfterAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lex Jacoby’s story is one of strength, resilience, and quiet courage. In this episode of Rise Above, Lex shares her journey from serving eight years in the U.S. Marine Corps to navigating divorce, single motherhood, and the isolating transition back into civilian life — all without a safety net. This conversation goes far beyond labels. Lex opens up about rebuilding her identity, learning how to stand on her own, and finding confidence and freedom by being unapologetically herself. Whether you’re a veteran, a single parent, or someone going through a major life transition, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to hit rock bottom to have a powerful Rise Above story. #RiseAbove #SingleMomLife #MarineVeteran #WomenWhoRise #LifeAfterTheMilitary #DivorceRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #StrongWomen #VeteranStories #RebuildingLife #HealingJourney #PersonalGrowth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Avery Schlereth never planned on getting sober — until alcohol stopped numbing her anxiety and started running her life. In this New Year, New Me episode of Rise Above, Avery shares what sobriety really looks like beyond the first year. Not just quitting drinking, but learning how to live, heal, and evolve as a sober woman — one year at a time. Year one was about survival. Getting sober in 2024 meant sitting with anxiety she had spent years trying to silence, learning how to exist without alcohol, and discovering a completely new way to move through the world. Year two was where the real work began. Avery focused inward — getting comfortable with herself, addressing old wounds, rebuilding self-trust, and learning who she was without alcohol, chaos, or external validation. Now heading into year three, Avery is operating on all cylinders. She’s applying everything she’s learned, revamping her business, and fully stepping into a new version of herself — grounded, confident, and intentional. In this conversation, Avery opens up about drinking two bottles of wine a night, blacking out, hiding alcohol from loved ones, and why moderation never worked for her. She also shares the moment she realized she was living below her potential, how therapy and AA helped her rebuild from the inside out, and why sobriety didn’t take her life away — it gave her one back. Today marks Avery’s two-year sober anniversary, and her story is a reminder that New Year, New Me isn’t a slogan — it’s a process of growth, honesty, and commitment. If you’re entering a new year feeling anxious, stuck, or tired of telling yourself “I’ll start tomorrow,” this episode is for you. I host a free Rise Above recovery meeting every Monday night. Email: Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com 🎧 Subscribe for real stories about mental health, sobriety, growth, and resilience. #SobrietyJourney #AlcoholRecovery #AnxietyAndAlcohol #SoberLiving #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible #TwoYearsSober #WomenInRecovery #AlcoholFreeLife #SoberPodcast #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionRecovery #HealingJourney #SelfWorth #LifeAfterAlcohol #SoberCommunity #AnxietyRecovery #HealthAndWellness #RealRecovery #SobrietyStories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kristen had what looked like a perfect childhood — loving parents, athletics, stability. But at 16, alcohol flipped a switch she didn’t know existed. From blackouts every single time she drank, to toxic relationships, infidelity, sudden death, hospitalizations, and a terrifying medical wake-up call that nearly cost her life — Kristen’s alcoholism spiraled fast and quietly. She drank alone. She drank to numb. She drank to survive. Until alcohol turned on her body — landing her in the hospital with abnormal scans, organ damage warnings, and thoughts she never thought she’d have. This is a brutally honest conversation about: Blackout drinking from the very first drink Alcoholism hiding behind “normal life” Betrayal, trauma, and repeated loss Near liver failure and hospital intervention Being forced into treatment — and why it finally worked Finding purpose, accountability, and real recovery Today, Kristen is 4.5+ years sober, married, trusted again by her family, and living proof that even when recovery starts for someone else — it can still save your life. If you or someone you love is struggling, this episode may be the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed. #AlcoholismRecovery #BlackoutDrinking #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #RiseAbovePodcast #RecoveryIsPossible #AlcoholFreeLife #WomenInRecovery #SoberLiving #TraumaAndHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryStories #RockBottom #SoberCommunity #OneDayAtATime #AddictionAwareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support recovery in style with SBR Cartel — 10% of every purchase helps struggling addicts and alcoholics find hope. Get 15% off with code RISEABOVE at sbrcartel.com Meet Jackie, a mother of four who survived childhood sexual abuse, chaotic parenting, violent relationships, addiction, and ultimately prison — where she endured an officer’s misconduct that later resulted in a $3.3 million settlement.But her story isn’t about money.It’s about resilience.In this episode, Jackie walks us through:• Growing up with abuse, neglect, and unsafe environments• Losing her son during active addiction• Developing a brutal opioid addiction• Snorting heroin instead of shooting it to “feel in control”• The hotel arrest that led to prison• The abuse she endured behind bars• Fighting a six-year legal battle• Getting clean, rebuilding her life, and becoming a mother again• Winning a $3.3M settlement — and not letting it destroy her• What relapse taught her after years sober• How she stays clean todayHer transformation is unbelievable — from losing her children, her freedom, and her identity… to creating a new life rooted in honesty, boundaries, faith, and recovery.If you’ve survived trauma, struggled with addiction, or felt like you couldn’t come back from a mistake — Jacqui’s story will move you deeply.🙏 Rise Above Recovery Meeting — Every MondayEmail Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com for the Zoom link.🔥 Join the Rise Above Sober CommunityConnect with people who truly get it inside the OpenRecovery app. #trauma #addictionrecovery #prisonstories #survivor #riseabove #opioidepidemic #addictionawareness #childhoodtrauma #recoveryjourney #healingjourney #overdoseawareness #soberlife #sobriety #abusesurvivor #mentalhealthmatters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support recovery in style with SBR Cartel — 10% of every purchase helps struggling addicts and alcoholics find hope. Get 15% off with code RISEABOVE at sbrcartel.com Ronnie’s story is one of the most powerful recovery journeys you will ever hear. In this episode of Rise Above, Ronnie opens up about his unbelievable transformation — from being a professional soccer star drafted #1 in the country, battling alcohol addiction, Valium dependence, cocaine, compulsive gambling, and lying, to becoming a man with 35 years sober and 31 years free from gambling. Ronnie shares: How a Valium prescription at 14 years old led to 20 years of addiction What it was like gambling while playing professional soccer Losing everything — including trust, money, family, and self-respect The $25,000 he stole from his own brother The brutal reality of detox, rehab, and psych wards How the 12 Steps, God, and service saved his life Making amends to the man who raised his children after addiction Building a successful business after recovery Teaching young people how to truly work the steps What it really takes to stay sober one day at a time This episode is for anyone struggling with addiction, gambling, anxiety, lies, ego, shame, or relapse — and for anyone who needs proof that it’s never too late to change your life. #35YearsSober #GamblingAddiction #RecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #RiseAbove #SobrietyJourney #FromAddictionToRecovery #12StepProgram #ValiumAddiction #CocaineAddiction #CompulsiveGambling #Alcoholism #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible #SoberLife #GamblersAnonymous #AARecovery #FaithInRecovery #OneDayAtATime #LifeAfterAddiction #RedemptionStory #KevinLanning #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support recovery in style with SBR Cartel — 10% of every purchase helps struggling addicts and alcoholics find hope. Get 15% off with code RISEABOVE at sbrcartel.com Annie shares one of the most powerful family-side addiction stories ever told on Rise Above. From growing up in a home filled with alcoholism, violence, and silence… to becoming a young mother… to watching her son become addicted to opioids after a football injury — this is the side of addiction rarely spoken about. Annie opens up about: Growing up in a chaotic alcoholic household Her son being prescribed opioids at 17 after a broken jaw Years of chasing, enabling, fear, and emotional collapse Her son’s journey to treatment and now over 10 years sober Hitting her own emotional rock bottom Recovery for family members through meetings, boundaries, and self-work Learning how to stop living in fear and start living in peace Today, Annie works in peer support, helps families in crisis, and is the author of Unhooked and Unbroken, two powerful books about family recovery and surviving addiction. This episode is for: Parents of addicted children Spouses and family members in chaos Anyone affected by addiction who thinks the only problem is the addict Because recovery isn’t just for the person using — it’s for everyone. #AddictionRecovery #OpioidCrisis #ParentsOfAddicts #FamilyRecovery #Codependency #OxyContin #RecoveryIsPossible #RiseAbovePodcast #Alcoholism #DrugAddiction #SoberCommunity #HealingJourney #TraumaHealing #MentalHealthPodcast #RecoverySupport #Intervention #Boundaries #12Steps #EmotionalRecovery #HopeAfterAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support recovery in style with SBR Cartel — 10% of every purchase helps struggling addicts and alcoholics find hope. Get 15% off with code RISEABOVE at sbrcartel.com In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Dr. Jason Rudolph — a psychologist with 28 years of sobriety — opens up about his daily cocaine addiction, massive consequences, failed attempts at school, gambling, lying, shame, and the moment he finally surrendered. Jason shares how he went from doing cocaine every day for two years, destroying relationships, losing opportunities, and spiraling into secrecy — to becoming a respected psychologist who has helped thousands of addicts recover. We walk through: ✔️ His childhood and early signs of addiction ✔️ Daily cocaine use, escalating to talk of smoking crack ✔️ Consequences he could no longer outrun ✔️ The God moment in a bar that changed everything ✔️ His surrender and journey through Hazelden, sober living, and rebuilding ✔️ Becoming Dr. Jason Rudolph — and helping others find the voice he once ignored ✔️ Mentorship, humility, boundaries, and why consequences save lives Whether you’re new to recovery, long-term sober, or trying to help a loved one, this conversation will hit home. Jason’s humility, clarity, and brutal honesty make this one of the most powerful episodes of Rise Above. Follow Dr. Jason Rudolph: IG: @drjasonrudolph Website: DrJasonRudolph.com If this episode helps you — please like, comment, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs hope today. You never have to recover alone. #addiction #recovery #sober #sobriety #cocaineaddiction #rehab #12step #mentalhealth #psychologist #inspiration #risenabove #kevinlanning #addictionrecovery #drugaddiction #soberlife #sobercommunity #overcomingaddiction #recoveryispossible #miracleofsobriety #intervention #hope Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Rise Above, Kevin sits down with Spencer Chamberlain, the legendary frontman of Underoath, for one of the rawest and most vulnerable interviews he’s ever done. Spencer opens up about: Joining Underoath at 23 The early days playing in front of 10 people Breaking away from the Christian-rock label His secret addiction to pills, cocaine, and the nightlife How fame, pressure, and identity spirals nearly destroyed him Navigating the collapse of the band in 2013 His journey to self-worth, therapy, recovery, and rebuilding his life Finding real love, becoming a father, and finally learning to love himself The moment he knew he had to completely change his life This episode is filled with redemption, honesty, and powerful insight into the world behind the music industry’s curtain. Whether you're a fan of Underoath, rock music, or stories of recovery—this interview will hit you hard. If this conversation helps you, please LIKE & SUBSCRIBE. To join Kevin’s Monday night Rise Above Recovery Meeting, email: kevin@riseabovepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this deeply emotional episode, Heidi shares the story she’s never fully told—growing up in an ultra-strict宗 Lutheran community comparable to Amish rules, where makeup, music, and even friendships outside the church were forbidden. After being married at 18 and becoming a mother of six, her life spiraled into emotional abuse, fear, and eventually alcoholism. But nothing prepared her for the darkest chapter: watching her teenage daughter fall into heroin addiction, spiraling into the streets, jail, and repeated overdoses. At just 18 years old, Heidi’s daughter tragically passed away from fentanyl. Heidi opens up about: • Escaping a controlling church community • An abusive marriage and losing custody of her children • Her battle with alcohol and multiple rehab attempts • Becoming homeless before rebuilding her life • Her daughter’s addiction, juvenile incarceration, and fentanyl use • The devastating day she received the phone call no parent should ever get • How she found sobriety, purpose, and healing after unthinkable loss If you are a parent of a child struggling with addiction, or you’re battling addiction yourself, this episode is for you. Heidi’s story shows that even through the darkest pain, there is still hope. 🙏 If this episode impacts you, please subscribe and share to help someone who needs it. 📧 For my Monday night Rise Above Recovery Meeting link, email: Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com #AddictionStory #FentanylCrisis #Motherhood #RecoveryJourney #RiseAbovePodcast #Sobriety #OverdoseAwareness #TraumaHealing #AddictionRecovery #SurvivorStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Russell’s story is one of the darkest descents ever shared on Rise Above — and one of the most inspiring comebacks.After years trapped in chronic pain, opiate prescriptions, crippling anxiety, and undiagnosed Bipolar II, Russell’s world fell apart:• his marriage crumbled• his career collapsed• his father was dying• he couldn’t sleep for months• he spiraled into heavy drinking + painkillers• and eventually… he planned his own suicideWhat followed is shocking:Russell was admitted twice to a psychiatric hospital, diagnosed bipolar, and eventually underwent electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) — the same “shock therapy” most people fear.But instead of ending his life…He rebuilt it from scratch.Today Russell is sober, mentally stable, and runs a successful pressure-washing business with his two sons — the very people he almost left behind.This interview is raw, emotional, and brutally honest. If you’re struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, or feel like you’re at the end… Russell’s story will show you that there is ALWAYS a way out.🙏 If you need recovery support:Email me to join our weekly Rise Above Recovery Meeting📧 Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com👇 Drop a comment if Russell’s honesty helped you today.#RiseAbove#AddictionRecovery#MentalHealthMatters#BipolarDisorder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Ryan shares one of the most shocking alcoholism survival stories we’ve ever heard on this show. From growing up depressed and anxious in Seattle… to binge drinking through college frat life… to running a business while hiding a cocaine addiction… Ryan’s battle with alcoholism escalated until he was drinking 12–20 drinks a day, suffering seizures, and hitting a 0.40 BAC during a police wellness check. But the moment that nearly killed him — and ultimately saved him — was when he collapsed down a flight of concrete stairs, woke up with his teeth knocked out, his face unrecognizable, and a corneal infection so severe doctors considered removing his eye. On top of this, Ryan opens up about the devastating loss of his sister to a fentanyl overdose, the trauma he carried since childhood, and the lies he told himself for years. Today, Ryan is over a year sober, rebuilding his life, helping others, and sharing the tools that finally kept him sober after countless attempts. This is one of the most raw, honest, and emotionally powerful episodes yet. If this story helps you, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and COMMENT below. Your support pushes this message of hope further. #alcoholism #soberstory #addictionrecovery #riseabovepodcast #rockbottom #soberlife #fentanylepidemic #traumahealing #alcoholaddiction #sobrietyjourney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Allen Lund’s story is one of the wildest and most heartbreaking transformation journeys ever shared on Rise Above. Born into chaos in Broward County, Allen grew up around addiction, violence, poverty, and dysfunction. By middle school he was on Xanax, smoking weed just to face the day, and eventually spiraled into a full-blown opioid and crack addiction that led to living two years under a bridge, watching people die around him, and surviving multiple fentanyl overdoses — including one where he woke up 6 hours later and should’ve been dead. After jail time, relapses, homelessness, and countless failed attempts to detox, Allen clawed his way into recovery. Today he’s coming up on one year sober, a devoted father, a partner, and a man with purpose. This episode is raw, graphic, emotional, and brutally honest — but it proves one thing: No matter how far you fall… you can rise again. #AddictionRecovery #FentanylCrisis #RiseAbovePodcast #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryStory #DrugAddiction #HomelessToHope #OverdoseSurvivor #RehabStories #SoberLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Allen’s story is one of the most shocking transformations ever shared on Rise Above. Born into chaos, raised in violence, and surviving a childhood surrounded by abuse, Allen was forced to grow up fast. He joined the Gangster Disciples, earned his stripes through a drive-by shooting, and later became a U.S. Army interrogator deployed across Afghanistan and Africa. After five combat deployments, PTSD, a failing marriage, and a life filled with secrets, everything spiraled. Cocaine. Fake Percs. Fentanyl. Losing jobs. Losing hope. Losing himself. And when CPS took his kids — everything changed. Today, Allen is 15 months sober and rebuilding his life with purpose, faith, and service. His journey shows that no matter how far you’ve fallen, you can rise above.If you or someone you love is struggling… this episode could save a life. Join our Rise Above Recovery Meeting (Mondays at 8 PM EST):Email Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com for the link. Patreon members get early access + exclusive live interviews:Patreon.com/RiseAbovePod #riseabovepodcast #fentanyl #addictionrecovery #gangsterdisciples #armyinterrogator #ptsd #sobrietyjourney #drugaddiction #traumasurvivor #kevinalanning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Hoff’s story is one of the most powerful transformations ever shared on Rise Above. Growing up in a small Minnesota town with an alcoholic father, Jessica swore she’d never become him. But one blackout in college sent her spiraling into years of binge drinking, cocaine, Xanax, opiates, and a near-fatal battle with breast cancer. Her life completely unraveled—addiction, a failing marriage, losing custody, and waking up in rehab with no memory of getting there. But nothing compares to the day she flew home to make amends… and found her father dead on the floor. What happened next changed her life forever. In this raw, emotional, and deeply spiritual interview, Jessica reveals: Her first blackout that launched a decade of chaos How cancer, pain pills, Xanax, and coke took over her life The brutal detox she barely survived The divine intervention that got her into treatment Finding her dad dead—and the God moment that kept her sober Rebuilding her life, motherhood, spiritual connection & purpose Her work as a healer helping others through sound, energy, and meditation Jessica is now over 7 years sober, a mother, healer, and walking example of what recovery can look like when you surrender and do the work. 👉 If this episode moved you, please subscribe, comment, and share. Your support helps us change lives. 👉 Join our Monday Night Recovery Meeting: Email Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com for the link. 👉 Go deeper with Rise Above on Patreon — early access, live Q&A, behind-the-scenes, and more. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #Alcoholism #RecoveryCommunity #AddictionStories #SoberLife #MentalHealthAwareness #CocaineAddiction #OpiateAddiction #XanaxAddiction #AAProgram #SpiritualAwakening #HealingJourney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alex’s story is the definition of Rise Above. Raised just outside of D.C., Alex had a solid upbringing—until a life-shattering trauma at age 9 changed everything. Losing his father to addiction left a hole he didn’t know how to fill… and by 11 years old, he found the first thing that made him feel “connected”: getting high. What started as weed quickly turned into a full-blown lifestyle—dropping out of school, running the streets, dealing drugs, chasing status, and doing whatever it took to feel okay. By his late teens, Alex was deep into cocaine, then crack. Florida became a new playground, but the addiction followed—fast. The party life turned into homelessness, violence, felony charges, and multiple prison stints. At one point he had five felonies, lost every opportunity in front of him, and spiraled into the darkest place imaginable. But in the middle of prison—while getting high on rat poison and living in survival mode—one brutal moment of truth from a cellmate cracked the armor. That day became the turning point that led Alex to complete surrender, recovery, and a new life built on faith, service, and accountability. Today, Alex is coming up on four years sober, living with peace he never thought was possible, and dedicating his life to helping others find a way out. If you’re struggling, feel stuck, or think you’re too far gone… this one’s for you. Rise Above Recovery Meetings: Every Monday night. Open meeting for anyone struggling with addiction, alcohol, gambling, food, etc. Email me at kevin@riseabovepod.com for the link + weekly updates. If this episode helped you, please like, subscribe, and share—your support helps us spread hope to the next person. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #RecoveryStory #CrackAddiction #CocaineAddiction #PrisonToPurpose #FelonToFreedom #FaithAndRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #SecondChances #RecoveryIsPossible #FloridaRecovery #DelrayBeach #12StepRecovery #HopeDealer #LifeAfterAddiction #TraumaRecovery #SoberLife #Inspiration Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Dr. Monica Vermani — clinical psychologist, trauma expert, TED speaker, and author — breaks down the true roots of stress, anxiety, trauma, maladaptive coping, and why so many of us feel overwhelmed in today’s world. From the role of childhood wounds to the patterns we repeat in adulthood, Dr. Vermani explains why we get stuck, how to break cycles of pain, and why rituals and slowing down are essential to healing. She unpacks everything from self-medication, addictive behaviors, people-pleasing, anger, boundaries, relationships, and the myth of “reinventing yourself.” If you’ve ever struggled with trauma, mood swings, anxiety, addiction, overwhelm, or feeling “not enough,” this conversation will change your life. Dr. Vermani’s work has helped thousands—and today, she shares her tools with you. 📘 Her Book: A Deeper Wellness: Conquering Stress, Mood, Anxiety & Trauma Available on Amazon & at DrMonicaVermani.com 🧠 Follow Dr. Vermani: Instagram | Website | Psychology Today Column 🆘 Every Monday Night: Rise Above Recovery Meeting Open to anyone struggling with addiction (alcohol, drugs, gambling, food). To join: Email Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com for the meeting link & updates. 💙 If this interview helped you, please LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to support the mission. #TraumaHealing #AnxietyRelief #MentalHealthMatters #StressManagement #PsychologyTalk #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionRecovery #EmotionalHealing #TherapyTools #MindfulnessDaily #InnerPeaceJourney #DrMonicaVermani #ThoughtWork #HealingTrauma #CopingSkills #SobrietyTools #SelfImprovementDaily Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and unfiltered episode of Rise Above, Michael Chosewood shares one of the wildest fentanyl addiction stories ever told on this channel. From smoking weed as a freshman athlete… to crushing Xanax bars before school… to flipping houses, running a CBD company, and secretly trafficking fentanyl pills between the U.S. and Nicaragua—Michael was a high-functioning addict whose entire life unraveled behind the scenes. His addiction spiraled so far out of control that he overdosed in an airplane bathroom mid-flight, forcing an emergency medical response the moment the plane landed. Yet even that wasn’t enough to stop him—at least, not yet. Michael opens up about: Growing up as a star athlete in Georgia Getting hooked on Xanax at 14 The first overdose that should’ve killed him Running from warrants, debt, and guilt Living in Nicaragua while importing fentanyl pills The overdose on the airplane that changed everything Detoxing from fentanyl and Xanax for 31 brutal days The spiritual experience that finally broke the cycle Finding real sobriety in Charleston Making amends, rebuilding his life, and choosing God His journey is a powerful reminder that it truly gets worse—until you decide it doesn’t have to. If Michael’s story inspired you, please LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to help us spread hope. #Fentanyl #AddictionRecovery #SoberLiving #RiseAbove #DrugAddiction #FentanylCrisis #RecoveryJourney #Sobriety #AddictToAthlete #OverdoseSurvivor #XanaxAddiction #DrugRehab #RecoveryCommunity #FaithAndRecovery #Inspiration #NeverGiveUp #YouAreNotAlone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gia seemed to have it all together—13 years clean, a child, a spiritual awakening. But one drink changed everything. In this powerful and vulnerable episode of Rise Above, Gia shares her journey from childhood in New Jersey to addiction in Florida, her battle with mental health, and the crushing weight of postpartum depression. She opens up about her two marriages, spiritual growth, and how community and self-honesty brought her back from the brink. Her story is a beacon for anyone struggling with relapse, loneliness, or the pressure to be “okay.” #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #SobrietyJourney #PostpartumDepression #RiseAbovePodcast #GiaStory #AARecovery #WomenInRecovery #RelapseToRecovery #SpiritualAwakening #TraumaHealing #MotherhoodUnfiltered #RecoveryPodcast #AlcoholismAwareness #AddictionSupport Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Olympic figure skater Nicole Bobek was once America’s golden girl — a national champion with worldwide fame, endorsement deals, red-carpet tours, and the spotlight of the 1998 Winter Olympics. But behind the sequins and standing ovations, Nicole was spiraling into addiction, identity struggles, trauma, and eventually a meth addiction that led to a high-profile arrest splashed across national headlines. Nicole’s story is a journey through fame, pain, accountability, and ultimate redemption — proof that no matter how far someone falls, they can rise again. If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone.Rise Above. #NicoleBobek #RiseAbovePodcast #Olympics #FigureSkating #AddictionRecovery #MethAddiction #RedemptionStory #TraumaSurvivor #RiseAbove #KevinLanning #SoberLiving #RecoveryCommunity #InspiringStories #SobrietyJourney #ComebackStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He swore he’d never touch a needle. But inside a California prison, surrounded by chaos, violence, and addiction—he did. This raw, unfiltered story follows one man’s journey from trying meth at 9 years old to shooting heroin behind bars, losing everything, and ultimately finding redemption. He survived prison riots, overdoses, and years of chaos before rebuilding his life through sobriety, faith, and service. Today, he helps others break free from the same darkness that once consumed him. ⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains graphic stories of addiction and incarceration. 💬 If this story moved you, please like, comment, and share — it helps us reach more people who need to know recovery is possible. 📩 Join the weekly Rise Above Recovery meeting — email kevin@riseabovepod.com 🌐 Learn more: https://riseabovepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amber grew up in a world surrounded by addiction. Her mom used meth. Her grandparents were addicts. Her father dated women who battled addiction. Chaos was normal. But somehow… she never fell into it. Instead, Amber became the one who breaks the cycle. Today she’s a counselor who has spent over 20 years helping families navigate addiction, denial, enabling, and communication breakdowns. She teaches families how to get through to an addict—without losing themselves. This conversation is going to help millions of people who are trying to save someone they love. Join us as we dive into generational addiction, family systems, resilience, boundaries, and the psychology behind denial and early stage addiction. #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionRecovery #BreakTheCycle #AddictionEducation #GenerationalTrauma #FamilyRecovery #OvercomingAddiction #SobrietyJourney #HopeDealer #RecoveryCommunity #AddictionAwareness #MentalHealthMatters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brooke Goff started her law firm from a kitchen table with $25,000 — and turned it into a legal empire in Connecticut. In this episode, Brooke shares how she beat the odds, bet on herself, built a dominant personal injury brand, navigated massive adversity, and became a force in a male-dominated industry. Her journey is proof: with accountability, courage and relentless belief… you can build the life you want. If you’re navigating fear, self-doubt, recovery, entrepreneurship, building something from nothing — this episode will light a fire inside you. Brooke Goff — a mother, an entrepreneur, a fighter… and a woman who built her own empire. #RiseAbovePodcast #WomenInBusiness #FemaleEntrepreneur #EntrepreneurMindset #OvercomingAdversity #BuildYourEmpire #Motivation #SuccessMindset #RiseAbove #WomenInLaw #PersonalGrowth #Inspiration #BusinessJourney #SelfBelief #NeverGiveUp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cassidy’s story is one of the darkest I’ve ever heard. She grew up in a good home, loving parents, big family… and still addiction found a way in. One pill turned into daily use… then heroin… then fentanyl… then she ended up in the most dangerous open-air drug market in America — Kensington. What she experienced there is not normal addiction. It’s human trafficking. Violence. Rape. Murder. Bodies in the street. Burning victims alive. Trap houses. Dealers beating people for losing product. Young girls disappearing. This is a level of hell that most people in this country will NEVER see. And she survived it. Cassidy opens up about overdoses, abusive relationships, jail, street life, losing friends, and the spiritual war that fentanyl brings with it. She rebuilt her life — and is now sober — and her story will change perspectives for families everywhere struggling to understand addiction. Watch this entire interview start to finish — share with a parent, sister, brother, someone who needs to know the reality of fentanyl before it’s too late. Rise Above. Always. #kensington #fentanyl #fentanylepidemic #opioidcrisis #philadelphia #addiction #recovery #sobriety #drugabuse #narcansaveslives #harmreduction #addictionawareness #recoveryispossible #riseabovepodcast #drugcrisis #openairdrugmarket #truecrime #streetsurvival #kensingtonphilly #fentanlyawareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meghan’s story is one of the most emotional, raw, and impactful episodes we’ve ever filmed on Rise Above. After years of opioid addiction, relapse cycles, losing her teeth, stealing to survive, and eventually living in a tent community—Meghan was ready to end her life. Instead, she made one call that saved everything. Inside this episode we talk about: Her descent from partying → pills → sniffing heroin → injecting What actually triggered her relapse AFTER years sober How dishonesty and “grey area using” almost took her out The moment she raised her hand in AA and had to reset her sober date Why secrets = the real relapse How emotional sobriety, service, God & community changed her entire life Today, Meghan is nearly 6 years sober, a professional speaker, a coach, and she helps others reclaim their power, heal trauma, and build real inner peace. There are thousands of people right now who feel like THEY are beyond repair. Her story proves the opposite. If you’re struggling—don’t give up before the miracle happens. Rise Above Recovery Meetings Every Monday night I host an open Rise Above recovery meeting for addiction, alcoholism, gambling, food addiction, etc. To get the Zoom link, email: Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com Patreon Join Rise Above Patreon for LIVE interviews + talk with guests after episodes #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddiction #OpiateEpidemic #RelapseRecovery #SobrietyJourney #EmotionalSobriety #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #RecoveredNotCured #HopeAfterAddiction #TraumaHealing #SpiritualAwakening #12StepRecovery #NeverRecoverAlone #SoberLife #RecoveryStory #OpioidCrisis #SoberCommunity #FaithInRecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boxing legend Vinny Paz sits down in the flesh on RISE ABOVE. The Tasmanian Devil himself. One of the wildest true comeback stories in all of sports. Vinny broke his neck in a horrific car accident — doctors told him he’d never walk again… and he came back and won 5 world titles. In this raw, unfiltered interview… Vinny opens up about chasing Muhammad Ali, fame, insane nightlife stories, partying with major celebrities, gambling a million dollars in one night, the movie made about his life, and what kept him alive when most would’ve quit. If you’ve ever needed proof that the human spirit can overcome ANYTHING — this is it. RISE ABOVE is about hope, adversity, and transformation. And Vinny Paz is living proof. Subscribe for more real stories that give people strength to keep going. #VinnyPaz #RiseAbovePodcast #BoxingLegends #ComebackStory #SportsDocumentary #CrazyLifeStories #OvercomingAdversity #NeverGiveUp #RedemptionStory #BoxingHistory #Motivation #AddictionRecovery #TriumphOverTragedy #UnderdogSpirit #MuhammadAliInspired Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At 17, Jerry thought he’d found a party drug that made him feel unstoppable. OxyContin. The blue 160s. The Florida pill mill days. He had no idea what was coming next. Within years, addiction took over his life — and just when he thought he’d escaped it, a motorcycle crash left him literally cut in half. Doctors said he wouldn’t survive. He flatlined three times. Sixty-eight surgeries later, Jerry is still here to tell the story. In this shocking interview, Jerry reveals: What life was really like inside Florida’s pill-mill scene How OxyContin destroyed an entire generation The crash that tore his body apart — and how he forgave the woman who caused it What he saw when he died — and the spiritual moment that brought him back This is one of the wildest, most powerful stories ever told on Rise Above. #OxyContin #OxyAddiction #FloridaPillMill #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionRecovery #OpiateAddiction #NearDeathExperience #SurvivorStory #Sobriety #AddictionStory #DrugEpidemic #PainkillerAddiction #Resilience #ComaSurvivor #MiracleSurvivor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Rosburg spent his 20s chasing ego, fame, and the next high — from starring in a Budweiser commercial to being cast in a reality TV show. But beneath the spotlight was an addiction that nearly killed him. In this episode, Chris opens up about the fear of losing his identity when getting sober, his journey through rehab, finding fellowship and faith, and how his 15-year sobriety led him to create Sober City, a free app helping others find daily reflection and spiritual grounding. We talk about accountability, ego, family, relapse prevention, and what true happiness in recovery really looks like. If you’re struggling or know someone who is, this story is proof that it’s never too late to change. 📱 Download Chris’s app: Sober City (available on iOS & Android) 💬 Join the Rise Above Recovery Meeting: Mondays 8:30 PM EST — email Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com for the link. 🎙️ Subscribe for more real stories of recovery and redemption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arayelle’s story is one of the most raw and inspiring transformations ever shared on Rise Above. A Boston native, she opens up about growing up in chaos, battling addiction, stripping to survive, and finding herself trapped in toxic relationships. After years of substance abuse, self-harm, and pain, she found healing through faith, therapy, and fitness — and is now nearly five years sober. In this episode, Arayelle and host Kevin Lanning have a deeply honest conversation about recovery, mental health, and learning to fill your own cup again.She now helps women in sobriety through fitness, mentorship, and her “Fellowship & Fitness” program — proving that no matter how far you fall, you can rise again. Connect with Kevin: 📩 Email: kevin@riseabovepod.com 🌐 RiseAbovePod.com 💬 Join our weekly Rise Above Recovery Meeting every Monday night — all are welcome. #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryStory #MentalHealthAwareness #WomenInRecovery #HealingTrauma #AddictionToRecovery #FitnessForRecovery #SoberLife #FaithAndHealing #RiseAbove #WorkoutWarrior #FromStruggleToStrength #BostonRecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, attorney Mark Astor joins host Kevin Lanning to discuss how families can legally intervene to save loved ones battling addiction and mental health struggles. Mark founded The Mental Health & Addiction Law Firm of Florida, a groundbreaking practice that combines legal authority, clinical support, and investigative resources to help families take action when everything else has failed. Together, Kevin and Mark dive into: How families can legally get loved ones into treatment The Marchman Act, Guardianship, and Baker Act explained The emotional and legal battle parents face when trying to save an addict Kevin’s own story of being “dragged to rehab” and finding lasting sobriety Why recovery is a lifelong process — and what real hope looks like Mark’s mission is simple: to save families whose loved ones are suffering from addiction and failed attempts at recovery. 👉 Learn more about Mark Astor’s work:https://www.mentalhealthaddictionlawfirm.com If you or someone you love is struggling, there is help and hope. 💌 Join our Monday night Rise Above Recovery Meeting: Email kevin@riseabovepod.com for the link. #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #FamilyAddictionHelp #SobrietyJourney #MarkAstor #KevinLanning #AddictionSupport #MarchmanAct #Guardianship #BakerAct #LegalIntervention #RecoveryCommunity #HopeAndHealing #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Baird’s story is one of survival, truth, and transformation. Put on Adderall at age 5, Jeff spent his entire youth medicated — never learning who he truly was. By 19, he was deep in the South Florida party scene: weed, coke, Xanax, lean, and eventually fentanyl. He was robbed at gunpoint, arrested multiple times, and even flatlined from an overdose. But in October 2021, Jeff finally made the call that saved his life. Now, nearly 4 years sober, he’s helping others in recovery and proving that no matter how far you fall, you can rise above it all. 👉 Watch this full interview to hear how Jeff went from being a “wannabe gangster” trapped in addiction — to a man of purpose, faith, and service. 🎧 Subscribe for more real stories of transformation. 📩 Join our community meetings at: Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com #addictionrecovery #riseabovepodcast #soberstories #recoveryjourney #overcomingaddiction #mentalhealth #sobriety #fentanylcrisis #addictionawareness #faith #redemption #southflorida #oxycodone #adhd #adderall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian grew up in a strict Brooklyn home, surrounded by addiction, secrets, and death — living next door to a funeral home and watching grief daily. What started as a college experiment with ecstasy in Florence spiraled into a decade of cocaine dealing across New York City, gambling thousands he didn’t have, and a public arrest at the World Trade Center construction site. After narrowly avoiding prison, he rebuilt his life — until opioids nearly killed him. In this raw interview, Brian opens up about the double life he lived, his $12,000-a-month Oxy habit, and the psychedelic Ibogaine treatment in Mexico that saved him. Watch as he shares how trauma, ego, and grief fueled his addiction — and what recovery really looks like when the spotlight fades. 0:00 Growing up next to death 13:00 Studying abroad & discovering ecstasy 15:00 Selling coke for 10 years 34:00 Arrested at the World Trade Center 48:00 Falling into opioids 1:00:00 Ibogaine in Mexico 1:15:00 Finding peace, love, and redemption 📩 Join the Rise Above Community: kevin@riseabovepod.com 🎧 Listen Everywhere: Rise Above Podcast #AddictionRecovery #Ibogaine #RiseAbovePodcast #Sobriety #DrugAddiction #WallStreet #CocaineAddiction #OpioidCrisis #RecoveryJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #BrooklynStories #KevinLanning #IbogaineTreatment #RedemptionStory #OvercomingAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jay Mac up in chaos — born to two addicted parents, moving from town to town, finding identity through graffiti, and battling fear and dysfunction from an early age. By high school, he was using cocaine and opiates, and soon after, heroin became his escape.After years lost to addiction, theft, and survival on the streets, Jay rebuilt his life from the ground up. He found sobriety, purpose, and a voice through art, barbering, and recovery work. Now with nine years clean, Jay shares how he went from a broken kid on Section 8 housing to a man leading others through recovery and using creativity as medicine.This conversation goes deep — relapse, redemption, fear, faith, and the discipline it takes to stay free. 👉 Follow Jay Mac: Instagram @the_backstah If this story moves you, please like, subscribe, and comment — it helps us keep sharing real stories that save lives. #RiseAbovePodcast #JayMac #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddiction #SobrietyJourney #GraffitiArtist #RecoveryStory #OvercomingAddiction #SoberLife #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryCommunity #CleanAndSober #DrugAddiction #StreetSmart #RiseAbove #SoberMotivation #AddictToAdvocate #BostonStrong #RedemptionStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and honest interview, Riley Whelan opens up about her battle with addiction, multiple relapses, and how she’s found a new life in sobriety.Riley shares about her upbringing, her early exposure to prescription drugs, the spiraling path through college and substance abuse, hitting rock bottom, and the pivotal moments that pushed her toward recovery. She also discusses how she handles ego, vulnerability, and purpose now — especially as a voice helping others. 💬 What you’ll hear: • Riley’s first memory of addiction and the role of ADHD in her life• How her substance use progressed from prescription misuse to harder drugs • Her experience with arrests, hiding it from her family, and running away • The turning point: entering rehab, embracing the recovery community, and doing real work • What she’s doing differently this time (amends, service, humility) • How she stays grounded while speaking publicly and helping othersIf you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone. There is hope, and listeners like you have the power to heal and rebuild. Follow Riley on TikTok: @riwhey_orthehighway #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryStory #RileyWhelan #RiseAbovePodcast #Sobriety #Healing #MentalHealthAwareness #AddictionAwareness #AlcoholismRecovery #DrugAddiction #RelapseAndRecovery #RecoveryCommunity #OvercomingAddiction #RecoveryIsPossible #CleanAndSober #SoberLife #SoberLiving #YouAreNotAlone #Inspiration Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brandi Mac is a nurse practitioner, a mother, and a survivor of trauma. Her daughter battled addiction for years—cycling in and out of treatment, relapsing nine times, and nearly losing her life. But what finally saved her wasn’t another rehab. In this powerful interview, Brandi shares the truth about parenting through addiction, breaking toxic family cycles, and finding healing through love, boundaries, and vulnerability. From surviving domestic violence to writing her book Do What You Can Live With, Brandi reveals how she turned her pain into purpose—and how her daughter is now over a year sober. #AddictionRecovery #RiseAbovePodcast #MotherAndDaughter #TraumaHealing #FamilyAddiction #SobrietyJourney #BrandiMac #RecoveryStories #AddictionAwareness #ParentingThroughAddiction #HealingTrauma #RiseAboveWithKevinLanning #AddictionSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryCommunity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan Soave joins me on Rise Above to share his powerful story of 17 years in sobriety and the lessons he’s learned as a therapist helping others heal from addiction, trauma, and the human condition. We dive into: The fear and courage of sharing your story publicly Why mental health and addiction exist on a spectrum The importance of learning to sit with uncomfortable feelings How childhood experiences shape adult behaviors Strategies to break patterns, slow down, and live with purpose Ryan also opens up about his own journey—how sobriety transformed his life, the challenges he still faces, and the tools he uses daily to grow as a father, husband, and leader. If you or someone you love is struggling, Ryan’s insights will remind you that healing is possible and that every emotion—even pain—can be a gateway to growth. 👉 Subscribe to Rise Above for more stories of resilience and recovery. 👉 Learn more about Ryan and his free course: RyanSoave.com #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #MentalHealthAwareness #RiseAbovePodcast #TraumaHealing #SoberLife #RecoveryCommunity #TherapyTools #SitWithFeelings #InspirationDaily Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Zallie’s story is one of unimaginable pain, loss, and redemption. Growing up in Philadelphia, Michael faced tragedy when his sister took her own life—an event that haunted him for decades. That trauma, combined with addiction to alcohol, pills, heroin, and meth, spiraled him into years of chaos: 13 rehabs, jail time, robbing his own family, and suicidal thoughts while climbing skyscrapers in a meth-fueled haze. But today, Michael is turning his pain into purpose. With nearly a year fully clean and sober, he’s rebuilding his life through recovery, faith, and art. His journey takes us deep into Kensington, Philadelphia’s epicenter of the heroin epidemic, and shows how even in the darkest places, hope can be found. If you or someone you love is struggling, this story is proof that it’s never too late to rise above. #HeroinAddiction #MethRecovery #KensingtonPhiladelphia #AddictionRecovery #RiseAbovePodcast #DrugAddictionStories #SobrietyJourney #OvercomingAddiction #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryCommunity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Wilson’s story is one of extreme highs and devastating lows. A Cocoa Beach surfing prodigy competing alongside legends like Kelly Slater, Josh’s life spiraled into addiction, arrests, and prison sentences. Despite more than 80 failed attempts at sobriety, today he celebrates one full year clean and sober. In this raw conversation, Josh opens up about: Growing up surfing at a national level and being sponsored at just 5 years old The devastating grip of alcohol, cocaine, and opiates that derailed his career Chaotic years spent in county jails, rehabs, and prison—including violent encounters Smuggling thousands of pills from Guatemala and running a weed business The moment of clarity that finally set him on the path to recovery Rebuilding relationships, spirituality, and finding peace after decades of chaos Josh’s journey is proof that no matter how many times you fall, it’s never too late to rise again. 👉 If this episode inspires you, please like, comment, and subscribe. Your support helps spread hope to those still struggling. #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #PrisonStories #RiseAbovePodcast #DrugAddiction #Sobriety #RecoveryCommunity #Alcoholism #OpiateAddiction #Inspiration #SecondChances Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nick’s story is one of the most raw and inspiring transformations you’ll ever hear. Once homeless on the streets of Detroit, sleeping in dumpsters and abandoned boats, Nick’s addiction to cocaine, pills, and heroin led him to DUIs, high-speed police chases, jail time, and near-death experiences.But after hitting rock bottom, he found recovery, rebuilt his life, and is now 10 years sober. In this interview, Nick shares: What it was like growing up with an alcoholic father His descent into heroin and the chaos of street lifeJail time, overdose scares, and losing his brother How long-term treatment finally gave him a chance at freedom The spiritual awakening that changed everything How he built a new life, got married, went back to school, and found purpose in helping others This is proof that recovery is possible and that no matter how far gone you feel, you can rise above. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to help us spread the message of hope. #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #RiseAbovePodcast #HeroinAddiction #DrugRecovery #RedemptionStory #Alcoholism #AddictionAwareness #MentalHealth #SoberLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joey Gandee’s story is one of the rawest journeys you’ll ever hear. Growing up in small-town Ohio, Joey had what looked like a “normal” childhood—but addiction does not discriminate. He went from playing varsity sports to selling weed in 9th grade, living in his car while raising his younger brother, and eventually using heroin with his own mother while homeless in a tent by the river. This episode dives deep into: His first felony at 18 and years of hustling The shocking day his mom introduced him to heroin Walking 14 miles a day just to scoreHitting rock bottom, jail time, and brutal withdrawals How he finally turned it all around and built a life of recovery Today, Joey is over 2 years sober, mentoring others, and running My Recovery Journal to help people fight back against addiction. His story proves that no matter how dark it gets, there is always a way out. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to keep spreading the message of hope. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddiction #FromAddictToAdvocate #SoberLife #AddictionDoesNotDiscriminate #OverdoseAwareness #RecoveryCommunity #HopeAfterAddiction #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bubba Sparxxx (Warren Mathis) opens up like never before about his rise to fame, the dark years of addiction, and his path to recovery.From topping the charts with Ugly and Ms. New Booty to battling alcoholism, opiates, meth, and even suffering a mini-stroke, Bubba’s story is raw, real, and inspiring. In this interview, he shares: How addiction nearly destroyed his career, health, and relationships What it was like going from platinum records to rehab and jail The role sponsors, honesty, and spiritual surrender play in his recovery Why this time is different — and why his quality of sobriety is stronger than ever This is a powerful conversation about music, addiction, resilience, and hope. 👉 Join our weekly Rise Above Recovery Meeting: Email me at Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com #BubbaSparxxx #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #RiseAbovePodcast #Alcoholism #DrugAddiction #RecoveryIsPossible #HipHopCulture #MethAddiction #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jennifer Kazilionis sits down with me to share her raw and unfiltered story of addiction, chaos, and ultimately, recovery.From growing up in Portland, Maine, to an abusive relationship, cocaine use, and two DUIs that landed her in jail, Jennifer’s path was filled with self-destruction and pain. With the help of treatment, sober living in Florida, and the guidance of a sponsor, she rebuilt her life and is now celebrating 13 years of sobriety.In this episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, Jennifer opens up about: Surviving abusive relationships and toxic cycles How cocaine and alcohol took over her life The turning point that finally led her into treatmentHer experience in jail and what it taught herThe tools and mindset that have kept her sober for over a decade This is an honest, eye-opening conversation about addiction, resilience, and the power of recovery. If you or someone you love is struggling, Jennifer’s story proves that it’s never too late to change. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to help us spread stories of hope and transformation. #RiseAbovePodcast #JenniferKazilionis #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #SoberLife #FromAddictionToRecovery #CocaineAddiction #AlcoholismRecovery #OvercomingAddiction #RiseAbove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karina’s story is raw, unfiltered, and powerful. From growing up as a cheerleader with early signs of heavy drinking, to panic attacks and daily withdrawals, she spiraled into isolation, suicide attempts, and repeated hospital visits.Her first rehab didn’t stick—she left planning to “drink normally” again. But after seizures, ICU stays, and liver failure, Karina nearly lost her life.What changed? During her second treatment, she finally surrendered—acceptance, honesty, and community transformed her path. Now she’s thriving in sobriety, finding gratitude in the little things, and helping others walk the same road.If you’re struggling with addiction or know someone who is, Karina’s journey will inspire you to believe recovery is possible. #Sobriety #AlcoholismRecovery #AddictionStory #MentalHealthAwareness #RiseAbovePodcast #KarinasStory #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryCommunity 00:00 – Intro / Childhood & Cheerleading 04:12 – First signs of drinking in high school & college 12:45 – Hoboken move, parents’ divorce & toxic relationship 19:20 – Panic attacks, daily drinking & first psych ward stay 27:15 – First rehab attempt & denial of alcoholism 33:40 – Relapse at the airport & rapid decline 41:55 – ICU visits, cirrhosis & alcoholic hepatitis 48:15 – Rock bottom: isolation, blood vomiting, near death 55:32 – The call that saved her life & second rehab 1:03:00 – Seizure in detox & brutal withdrawal 1:15:00 – Spiritual turning point & real acceptance 1:25:00 – Falling in love with recovery & helping others 1:40:00 – Gratitude, community & rebuilding her life 1:55:00 – Closing reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kaja’s story is one of resilience, heartbreak, and hope.At just 14 years old, she was thrust into the world of international modeling, traveling across Europe and facing impossible standards. By 16, she encountered Harvey Weinstein for the first time—an experience that left deep scars and would be repeated again at 19.In this raw and powerful interview, Kaja opens up about:Growing up with anxiety and never feeling like she fit in.The pressures and exploitation she faced as a teenage model.Her encounters with Harvey Weinstein and how they impacted her mental health.Turning to alcohol to cope and her eventual path to sobriety.How she rebuilt her life, became a therapist, and is now helping others heal from trauma.This conversation is about more than survival—it’s about courage, faith, and the power of never giving up 👉 If this story resonates, please like, share, and subscribe to help us spread the message of hope. 👉 Join our Rise Above Recovery Meetings every Monday night by emailing: kevin@riseabovepod.com #RiseAbovePodcast #HarveyWeinstein #SurvivorStory #TraumaRecovery #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #HealingFromTrauma #SurvivorsSpeak #RiseAbove #MentalHealthAwareness #SobrietyLife #WomensVoices #MeToo #SurvivorStrong Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jennifer grew up in a chaotic household with an alcoholic parent and perfectionist pressure driving her from a young age. Her journey took her from being a nationally ranked bowler on scholarship to the wild world of college sororities, drinking, and cocaine-fueled chaos. What began as casual partying quickly spiraled into blackouts, toxic relationships, and moments of incomprehensible demoralization—including a traumatic assault that left lasting scars. But Jennifer’s story doesn’t end there. At just 26 years old, she hit rock bottom and made the courageous decision to change her life. Now approaching two years of sobriety, Jennifer shares the raw truth of addiction, the shame she carried, the grace she found in recovery, and how God and accountability helped her rebuild her life. Her story is one of chaos, pain, self-awareness, and ultimately hope. If you or someone you know is struggling, this interview is proof that it’s never too late to rise above. #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #RiseAbovePodcast #TraumaHealing #AlcoholismRecovery #CocaineAddiction #SurvivorStory #MentalHealthAwareness #SoberLiving #FaithAndRecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard's story is one of the most gripping tales of addiction, crime, and redemption ever told on this channel. By the age of 18, he had already served prison time for burglary. Over the next two decades, he racked up 33 felony convictions, became known as one half of the “Dynamic Duo” of cr@ck-addicted brothers in Palm Beach County, and lived in trap houses, behind shopping centers, and eventually a foreclosed home taken over by drug dealers and pr0stitutes.His downward spiral included multiple prison bids, including time in one of Florida’s most violent correctional facilities, a 40-year sentence served in pieces, and heartbreaking moments like watching his mother and siblings cycle through incarceration and addiction as well.But in 2016—after a final psychosis-fueled standoff in a motel—Richard made a decision to change his life. Almost ten years later, he’s clean, sober, employed, helping others, and back in touch with every family member who once cut him off. His story proves that even after decades of darkness, it’s never too late to rise above. 🔗 Join our Monday night Rise Above Recovery MeetingsEmail: kevin@riseabovepod.com 🎙️ Support the podcast and go deeperJoin our Patreon for exclusive content & live guest chats. #AddictionRecovery #PrisonToPurpose #CrackAddiction #FelonToFreedom #SobrietyJourney #DrugAddiction #RecoveryIsPossible #RedemptionStory #FloridaPrison #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Izzy opens up about her 15-year battle with Adderall and how quitting cold turkey changed her life forever. From being put on ADHD medication at just 12 years old to building a fast-paced career as a hairstylist powered by stimulants, she shares how the drug shaped her identity, destroyed relationships, and disconnected her from her true self.After a divorce, years of emotional chaos, and a nationwide Adderall shortage, Izzy made the life-altering decision to walk away from the pills—and every crutch that came with them. In this raw and honest interview, she describes the silent hell of detox, how she found peace through meditation, why she got rid of her TV, and what it really means to reclaim your power.Whether you're struggling with Adderall, ADHD, burnout, or just looking for hope—you need to hear this. 🎧 Subscribe for more raw and real stories of resilience every week. 🔗 Follow Izzy on TikTok: @izzzywho 🧠 Hosted by Kevin Lanning | Rise Above Podcast #AdderallRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionRecovery #QuittingAdderall #SobrietyJourney #ADHDAwareness #HealingJourney #Meditation #ColdTurkey #MentalHealthMatters #WomenInRecovery #SelfGrowth #StimulantAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carl Stone spent over 30 years in law enforcement—respected, decorated, and seen as a protector. But behind closed doors, he was quietly unraveling. Haunted by childhood trauma, daily exposure to horrific crimes, and suppressed mental health struggles, Carl turned to alcohol to cope. Then one day, everything came crashing down.In this raw and unfiltered interview, Carl shares his story for the first time: witnessing brutal domestic abuse as a child, becoming a police officer to escape that cycle, and ultimately repeating it himself. After a violent domestic incident with his wife, Carl was arrested, charged, and sentenced to prison.Now sober and free, Carl is using his story to spark real change. He opens up about PTSD, toxic masculinity, the stigma around men’s mental health, and the lifelong shame he carries. This isn’t just a redemption story—it’s a wake-up call.⚠️ Trigger warning: this episode discusses domestic violence, addiction, suicide ideation, and childhood trauma.📧 To join our weekly Rise Above Recovery Meeting or connect with Kevin: kevin@riseabovepod.com💬 For exclusive behind-the-scenes content and live guest chats, join our Patreon: https://patreon.com/RiseAbovewithKevinLanning?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink #PolicePTSD #RedemptionStory #MentalHealthAwareness #DomesticViolenceSurvivor #AddictionRecovery #MensMentalHealth #RiseAbovePodcast #CarlStoneInterview #FromCopToConvict #PrisonReform #TraumaHealing #RealStoriesRealPeople #RiseAboveWithKevinLanning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hal Hughes had the perfect life: a loving wife, four kids, a successful career in law enforcement, and a reputation as a local hero. But everything changed the day he was violently attacked on the job—an incident that left him with a traumatic brain injury and a slow-burning descent into darkness.In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Hal opens up about the devastating impact of PTSD, chronic pain, and addiction. He shares how opiates hijacked his life, how he almost lost everything, and what finally pulled him back from the edge. Now 9 years sober, Hal has transformed from a wounded officer into a licensed psychotherapist, keynote speaker, and mental health advocate—teaching others how to turn pain into purpose.This episode is a must-watch for anyone struggling with trauma, addiction, or identity after a life-altering event. 👥 If this conversation helps you—share it. You could save someone’s life. 📩 Join our Monday Night Rise Above Recovery Meetings:Email kevin@riseabovepod.com for the Zoom link. #AddictionRecovery #PoliceStory #OpiateAddiction #MentalHealthAwareness #PTSDRecovery #TraumaSurvivor #RiseAbovePodcast #SobrietyJourney #FirstResponderStories #BrainInjuryRecovery #CopsAndAddiction #RecoveryIsPossible #InspirationalPodcast #RedemptionStory #RealLifeStories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leticia grew up in a tight-knit Brazilian-American community in Danbury, CT. One night out with friends—“just two drinks”—became a life-changing DUI at 0.08. In this raw conversation, she breaks down what actually happens after the arrest: getting pulled over twice in minutes, the breath test, court, fines and fees, a year-long program, and installing an interlock on her Tesla. She also shares the emotional fallout of seeing her mugshot blasted online, navigating family and community judgment, and the simple choice that could have avoided it all: a $100 Uber vs. a $15,000 mistake.We talk practical takeaways for anyone tempted to “risk it” on a short drive, what to expect legally and financially, and how to support someone going through it—without shaming them. This isn’t about excuses. It’s a reality check that may save a life.—Want community support? I host the Rise Above Recovery Meeting every Monday at 8:30pm ET on Zoom (open to anyone: alcohol, drugs, gambling, food, and more).Email kevin@riseabovepod.com and I’ll send the link + weekly reminder. #DUI #DUIAwareness #Sobriety #RecoveryCommunity #DanburyCT #BrazilianAmerican #RiseAbovePodcast #AlcoholAwareness #LegalConsequences #MentalHealth #YoungAdults #DoNotDrinkAndDrive Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carla grew up in a loving home in Boston with a supportive family and big dreams of becoming a teacher. But one party after high school changed everything. She took her first Percocet—and what followed was a devastating spiral into opiate addiction, heroin, and eventually shooting up. In this gripping episode, Carla opens up about stealing $100,000 from her hardworking father, losing custody of her kids, and surviving a near-fatal seizure during detox.But Carla’s story doesn’t end in tragedy—it’s one of powerful redemption. After getting sober while pregnant, she stayed clean for six years before relapsing in a moment of heartbreak and rage. She fought her way back once again, regained custody of her children, and is now four years sober, living with purpose and using her TikTok platform to help others rise above addiction. 🔗 Join our Recovery Meeting every Monday at 8:30PM EST:Email kevin@riseabovepod.com to get the Zoom link. #RiseAbove #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddict #Suboxone #RecoveryJourney #SoberLiving #AddictionAwareness #RelapseAndRecovery #TikTokRecovery #OpiateAddiction #TraumaHealing #OvercomingAddiction #Benzodiazepines #FamilyHealing #RecoveryPodcast #RockBottomToRedemption Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chevy Chase, the legendary star of Saturday Night Live and the National Lampoon’s Vacation films, sits down for a rare and unfiltered conversation about his life, career, and sobriety. From growing up in New York and Woodstock, to breaking into comedy with Lorne Michaels, to navigating sudden fame and unforgettable fan encounters, Chevy opens up like never before. He also reflects on his battle with alcohol, his time at the Betty Ford Center, and how he’s maintained 47 years of sobriety. Honest, funny, and raw, this is Chevy Chase as you’ve never seen him. #ChevyChase #SNL #SaturdayNightLive #ChristmasVacation #NationalLampoonsVacation #HollywoodStories #ComedyLegend #RecoveryJourney #RiseAbovePodcast #KevinLanning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jordan was a promising D1 football recruit with full-ride offers—until a torn ACL and a bottle of painkillers changed everything.What started as surgery recovery turned into full-blown addiction: Oxy, Perc 30s, heroin, Subutex, and eventually shooting drugs with horse syringes stolen from Tractor Supply.From robbing his grandma’s wedding ring… to almost holding up a Subway sandwich shop with a butter knife… to surviving two years in state prison where he watched people overdose and even saw someone die by suicide—this is one of the rawest and most jaw-dropping stories we’ve ever heard on Rise Above.But Jordan’s story didn’t end in tragedy. After a wreck on his motorcycle, his now-wife held him accountable in ways he’d never experienced before—and he’s been clean since 2018.⚠️ Viewer discretion advised — this episode contains graphic stories of addiction, survival, prison violence, and near-death experiences.If this story moves you, please like, comment, and subscribe to help us spread the message of hope.🎙 Hosted by Kevin Lanning Get access to our weekly Rise Above Recovery meetings: kevin@riseabovepod.com Join our Patreon for exclusive content: https://patreon.com/RiseAbovewithKevinLanning?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddict #FromAddictToAdvocate #PrisonStories #DrugAddiction #OxyContin #FentanylCrisis #RiseAbovePodcast #RedemptionStory #SoberLife #Subutex #DrugRehab Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Lavin's life is almost too extreme to believe.Abused as a child. Locked in a box for days. Smoking crack and running a car scam at 17. He made millions, lost it all, then lost the only thing he truly loved—his son. He held a gun to someone’s head, and almost pulled the trigger. Twice. But something stopped him.This is not just a story of survival. It’s a story of redemption, purpose, and undeniable spiritual transformation.In this raw and emotional interview, Chris shares the darkest parts of his journey—sexual abuse, addiction, homelessness, criminal empires, and unspeakable loss. But also how faith, community, and a willingness to change helped him rise from the ashes.If you're struggling, you're not alone.Watch this and let Chris's story give you hope. 🧠 Need help? Join our free Rise Above Recovery Meeting every Monday night.Email kevin@riseabovepod.com to get added to the list. ❤️ Support the mission:Patreon.com/riseabovepod – Watch live interviews, access behind-the-scenes content & more. 📲 Follow for daily clips and recovery content:TikTok • Instagram • YouTube Shorts • Spotify • Apple Podcasts #ChrisLavin #AddictionRecovery #FaithAfterLoss #CrackAddictToEntrepreneur #RiseAbove #ChildhoodTrauma #SobrietyStory #SurvivorTestimony #FromPainToPurpose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He went from a small-town baseball player with a bright future… to shOOting heroin in New Jersey, smuggling bricks of dope through airports, and facing eight years in prison.In this raw and unfiltered interview, Flip shares how his life spiraled from painkillers and partying in the restaurant industry to becoming a full-blown IV drug user. This is one of the wildest redemption stories ever shared on Rise Above.👉 If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, know that recovery is possible. Please share this story with someone who needs to hear it. #RiseAbovePodcast #HeroinAddiction #DrugSmuggling #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #FromPrisonToPurpose #IVDrugUser #RedemptionStory #RecoveryJourney #AddictToAdvocate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Hirschfield was a high school football coach on top of the world—winning state championships, raising two kids, and leading one of Georgia’s most promising teams. But behind the success was a man silently battling addiction. After a devastating DUI, Chris lost everything—his job, his reputation, and his sense of self.In this raw and emotional interview, Chris opens up about childhood trauma, pressure to prove himself, spiraling into daily drinking, and the powerful moment of surrender that saved his life. Now sober and rebuilding, he’s using his pain to help others—including coaches, athletes, and anyone silently struggling. Chris's website: Www.movethechains.squarespace.com #AddictionRecovery #CoachingLife #SobrietyJourney #RockBottom #FootballCoach #DUIRecovery #StateChampion #MentalHealthAwareness #HighSchoolFootball #AlcoholAddiction #RedemptionStory #RiseAbovePodcast #MoveTheChain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jaclyn Buntic opens up about her harrowing journey through addiction, starting with pain pills and Xanax at 16, leading to heroin and meth by 18. She shares how growing up in a dysfunctional household, bouncing between homes, and dating someone in a trap house sent her spiraling into drug use. Her first IV heroin injection was administered by her girlfriend — a moment that led to full-blown addiction.From overdoses and jail time to the shocking murder of her best friend’s parents, Jaclyn’s story is one of heartbreak, survival, and ultimately, redemption. Now nearly 5 years clean, she’s a Pokémon YouTuber, musician, and beacon of hope for others in recovery. This is one of the rawest, most emotional stories ever told on Rise Above. Watch until the end to hear Jaclyn’s powerful message for anyone struggling right now. #AddictionRecovery #HeroinSurvivor #OverdoseAwareness #AddictToAdvocate #SobrietyJourney #TrapHouseSurvivor #NarcanSavedMyLife #DrugAddictionHelp #RecoveryCommunity #MentalHealthMatters #RiseAbovePodcast #XanaxAddiction #IVHeroinRecovery #SurvivorStories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Funes’ life spiraled from a strict Christian upbringing into a world of manic highs, drug-fueled nights, white-collar crime, and a $3.7 million FBI investigation. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder after a suicide attempt and mental hospital stay, David’s story is one of chaos, shame, addiction, and ultimately — redemption. #RiseAbovePodcast #BipolarDisorder #AddictionRecovery #TrueCrimeStories #MentalHealthAwareness #DrugAddiction #FBIInvestigation #CocaineAddiction #WhiteCollarCrime #FromAddictionToRecovery #BipolarAwareness #ManicDepression #SurvivorStories #TraumaHealing #RedemptionStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Destiny's story is one of unimaginable pain and powerful transformation. Molested as a child, abandoned by her mother, and raised in dysfunction, she battled self-worth issues from an early age. After a blackout car accident nearly claimed her life, she spiraled deeper—eventually overdosing multiple times, spending 10 months in jail, and shooting up for the last time on her grandmother’s floor. Today, Destiny is 8 years clean and sober. She works in treatment, is studying to become a nurse, and is proof that no matter how dark it gets, recovery is possible. In this episode of Rise Above, she opens up about trauma, addiction, identity loss, and the spiritual awakening that changed everything. If you’re struggling with addiction, this episode is for you. #AddictionRecovery #ChildhoodTrauma #OverdoseSurvivor #RiseAbovePodcast #8YearsSober #FromAddictionToRecovery #RecoveryStory #NarcoticsAnonymous #TraumaHealing #DrugAddiction #MentalHealthAwareness #SurvivorStory #SoberLife #AbuseSurvivor #ACARecovery #CleanAndSober Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chandler was a bright kid — valedictorian, pre-med student, academic scholarships. But beneath the surface, addiction was brewing. From his early battles with leukemia to his first drink at 11, the seeds were planted early. College became a war zone: psychedelics, alcohol, Xanax, and eventually cocaine took over his life. He overdosed multiple times, dropped out of school, and spiraled into daily DoorDash hustles just to get high.🙏 Drop a comment if this story resonates, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to spread the message of hope. #AddictionRecovery #SoberLife #CocaineAddict #XanaxWithdrawal #FromAddictionToRecovery #RiseAbovePodcast #DrugAddictionStory #ValedictorianGoneWrong #ColdTurkeyDetox #SpiritualAwakening #OverdoseSurvivor #MentalHealthAwareness #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryIsPossible #AA #YoungPeopleInRecovery #RiseAboveWithKevinLanning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He grew up in a small Mississippi town, hiding trauma, abuse, and addiction behind sports, work, and alcohol. By his 40s, he was drinking half a gallon of Fireball a day, facing divorce, and trapped in generational dysfunction.In this raw conversation, he opens up about:Surviving childhood abuse and fearHis first drink at 9 years oldThe downward spiral into alcoholism and opiate useHitting bottom and finally surrendering to sobriety in NashvilleBreaking family cycles of trauma and building a new legacy for his daughtersWriting his book “Jesus Is Cool, But Christians Creep Me Out”This is a story about pain, faith, and the power of recovery. If you’ve ever struggled with addiction, generational trauma, or finding your way back to hope—this episode will resonate.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support more stories of resilience. #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #Alcoholism #TraumaHealing #RecoveryJourney #GenerationalCurses #SobrietyStories #RiseAbovePodcast #AlcoholRecovery #FaithAndSobriety Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tina survived the unthinkable. Molested by the man she thought was her father. Raised in a home of violence, secrecy, and fear. Then, decades later, she uncovered a chilling family secret — her real father was her grandfather. In this raw, emotional episode of Rise Above, Tin shares her journey through childhood trauma, the military, motherhood, and recovery. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and breaking generational cycles. From surviving incest and abuse to reclaiming her identity and healing through EMDR therapy, Tin’s story will stay with you long after you finish watching. #RiseAbovePodcast #TraumaSurvivor #IncestSurvivor #ChildhoodAbuse #FamilySecrets #EMDRTherapy #MilitaryWomen #BreakingTheCycle #SurvivorStory #Resilience #MentalHealthAwareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matt grew up in a loving home in Westchester, NY—but alcohol and cocaine nearly destroyed everything he built. From blackouts and bartending in Florida to getting strip-searched at Gun Club Jail, Matt reached his breaking point. What followed was a powerful journey through recovery, multiple relapses, deep therapy, and ultimately transformation.In this raw interview, Matt opens up about:His battle with addiction while teaching kids and coaching baseballThe death of his father and how unprocessed grief fueled his drinkingSleeping in restaurant booths and narrowly escaping DUI arrestsStarting over from zero and founding a protein snack company now in over 2,000 storesThe power of the 12-step program, journaling, and unwavering honestyThis is the story of how one man went from jail to Whole Foods—and built a purpose-driven life out of the wreckage of addiction.Check out Matt’s snack company:IG: @froprosnacks🎧 Like, subscribe, and leave a review to help spread stories of hope. #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #Entrepreneurship #ProgressSnacks #FromJailToSuccess #AA #Alcoholism #Inspiration #WellnessJourney #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Keesha’s journey is one of resilience, heartbreak, and purpose. After battling alcoholism, losing her husband to a drug overdose, and raising twins alone, she turned her pain into a mission — helping teens and families struggling with addiction and mental health. In this powerful interview, Keesha shares: How she got sober after years of destructive drinking The devastating day her husband relapsed and passed away Parenting twins alone while grieving Opening Guardian Recovery and dedicating her life to adolescent care Practical strategies for parents to prevent teen substance abuse The power of honesty, accountability, and community in recovery If you’re a parent, in recovery, or facing adversity, this story will inspire you to rise above and keep going — no matter what life throws your way. 📖 Keesha’s Book: On Perfect – Coming Soon! 📧 Join Kevin’s open recovery meetings: Kevin@RiseAbovePod.com #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #RiseAbovePodcast #TeenAddiction #ParentingTeens #Sobriety #OvercomingAddiction #RecoveryCommunity #MentalHealthAwareness #SingleMomLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brittany’s life spiraled from anxiety-filled childhood to a devastating descent into addiction. After surviving sexual coercion in high school, she turned to stripping, entered an abusive relationship, and was introduced to fentanyl. Soon, she was homeless, living in a van with her dealer, surrounded by children watching their parents shoot up, and caught in the middle of a motel shootout.This is her raw, unfiltered story — from donating plasma to get high, to surviving brutal withdrawals, to finally getting clean and sober. Now, Brittany is one year sober and working in treatment, determined to break the cycle and inspire others to seek help.If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, there is hope. You can change your life.📌 Subscribe for more real stories of survival and redemption.📌 Share this video to help someone in need. #Fentanyl #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #DrugAddiction #HomelessToHope #OverdoseAwareness #AddictsInRecovery #AbuseSurvivor #FromAddictionToRecovery #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and unfiltered interview, Matt Stoddard opens up about his journey through addiction, from his traumatic childhood to a life spiraling out of control with pain pills, OxyContin, and Fentanyl. He shares his darkest moments, including playing "Russian roulette" with his life, hitting rock bottom, and finding his way to recovery. With brutal honesty, Matt reveals the mental and physical toll of addiction, his struggles with rehab, and how he turned pain into purpose through music. This episode is a must-watch for anyone struggling or supporting someone battling addiction. Don't miss Matt's powerful story of survival and transformation. #AddictionRecovery #FentanylAwareness #RockBottomToRedemption #OpioidCrisis #RecoveryJourney #SobrietyStory #FromAddictionToMusic #MentalHealthMatters #RecoveryWarrior #BreakingTheCycle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben was s*xually abused at age 10 by a trusted camp counselor. That trauma led him to heroin by 16, methadone addiction, and eventually losing custody of his son. But through God's grace, relentless 12-step work, and a fierce desire to help others, Ben got clean—and stayed clean for 14 years. In this raw interview, he shares how he went from shooting up daily and nearly dying from withdrawal… to adopting a child whose mother overdosed in a trailer surrounded by syringes. This is one of the most powerful redemption stories we’ve ever featured. #AddictionRecovery #SexualAbuseSurvivor #HeroinAddict #MethadoneWithdrawal #TraumaHealing #SoberDad #AdoptionStory #FentanylCrisis #RiseAbovePodcast #FaithInRecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom grew up in a small Pennsylvania town, raised by a single father after his mother abandoned him and his sister. By 13, he was drinking. By 25, he was blacking out, driving drunk, popping benzos, and working high. After a devastating DUI and a near-death experience, Tom got on a plane to Florida—and never looked back. Now over 14 years sober, he’s a father, a son, a podcast host, and the man who helped his long-lost sister into recovery. This is a powerful story of redemption, family, and what it truly means to “Rise Above.” #addictionrecovery #sobrietyjourney #dui #alcoholism #realrecoverystory #recoverycommunity #mentalhealthawareness #riseabovepodcast #fromaddictiontorecovery #familyhealing #recoverywarrior #hopeandhealing #soberlife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dina grew up excelling in school and sports — but behind the scenes, she was spiraling. Expelled from multiple schools, battling attention-seeking behavior, and drawn to chaos, her life took a dark turn into opiate addiction. She lived a double life, fooling friends, family, and even herself — until her parents made the hardest decision of their lives: to cut her off and have her arrested.What followed was a brutal detox, a terrifying jail psychosis, and a spiritual awakening that changed everything. In this powerful conversation, Dina shares her full journey — from fentanyl addiction and manipulation to rebuilding trust, discovering God, and finding peace through fitness and family.If you’ve ever struggled with addiction, family betrayal, or finding purpose after rock bottom — this story is for you.#AddictionRecovery #SobrietyStory #FentanylCrisis #JailSavedMyLife #RiseAbovePodcast #MentalHealthMatters #FaithAndRecovery #OvercomingAddiction #WomensRecovery #OpioidAddiction #HealingJourney #FamilyRecovery #RehabToRedemption #RockBottomToRecovery #DrugAddictionHelp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach was addicted to porn for over a decade — a secret he hid while building a successful career and life overseas. His sex addiction escalated into dark, isolating patterns that he couldn’t escape — until he hit a breaking point. In this raw and revealing interview, Zach opens up about the childhood traumas, depression, and validation-seeking that fed his addiction.Now over 9 years sober, Zach is the founder of Open Recovery, an innovative app using AI to help people battling addiction get the support they need — anytime, anywhere. We dive deep into the psychology of sex addiction, the stigma that keeps people sick, and how Zach turned pain into purpose through recovery and tech.If you’ve struggled with any form of addiction — drugs, alcohol, porn, validation — this conversation will hit home.🧠 Open Recovery App: https://openrecovery.com📲 Download “Open Recovery: Addiction Help” on iOS & Android #PornAddiction #SexAddictionRecovery #ZachStory #OpenRecovery #AddictionHelp #RecoveryAI #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #RecoveryJourney #AIinRecovery #RelapsePrevention #PornRecovery #12StepRecovery #CBTtherapy #TraumaHealing #MenAndAddiction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ricki Friedman was prescribed Adderall at just 7 years old. After losing her mom to cancer at 13, she battled decades of emotional pain, a secret marijuana addiction, and an identity built around medication. Despite creating a successful brand and coaching thousands through “Break the Weight,” Ricki was silently crumbling. In this raw and unfiltered interview, Ricki opens up about living a double life, her decision to quit weed and Adderall cold turkey, and how community, therapy, and purpose helped her rebuild everything. From founding the “Steps Forward” podcast to helping over 800 people walk away from weed, this is Ricki’s incredible journey of healing and truth. IG: iamrickifriedman Podcast: Steps Forward with Ricki 👉 Subscribe for more stories of recovery and transformation. #AddictionRecovery #AdderallAddiction #MentalHealthMatters #WeedAddiction #SobrietyJourney #WomensRecovery #TraumaHealing #StepsForward #RecoveryPodcast #BreakTheWeight #KevinLanning #RickiFriedman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sheila spent years as a top critical‑care nurse, running ICU floors and even traveling coast to coast as a contract RN. But after a brutal ankle injury and two surgeries, legitimate pain management morphed into a secret prescription racket. Sheila reveals how she ran a telehealth practice from her home, writing pain‑killer scripts for herself—and even family members—until the medical board caught her and stripped her license. In this raw, unfiltered interview, she walks us through the moment she crossed the line, the shame of hiding her addiction, and the faith that ultimately saved her. #AddictionRecovery #OpioidEpidemic #NurseConfession #RecoveryJourney #PrescriptionScandal #RiseAbovePodcast #OpenRecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At just 9 years old, Eric watched a man strangle his mother with a phone cord—the same man who later became a convicted serial killer. That moment shaped his entire life. From martial arts champion to nightclub enforcer, to losing his wife to a terminal illness, and ending up homeless and suicidal—Eric’s story is raw, powerful, and ultimately redemptive.In this gripping episode, Eric opens up about addiction, grief, violence, and how faith and service helped him rebuild everything. Now 7 years sober, Eric works in recovery, speaks nationwide, and helps families heal.If you've ever felt hopeless, invisible, or like you couldn’t recover—watch this. You’re not alone. #addictionrecovery #childhoodtrauma #alcoholism #sobrietyjourney #recoveryispossible #mentalhealthawareness #homelessness #traumasurvivor #faithandrecovery #openrecovery #realrecoverytalk #aa #recoverywarrior #riseabovepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At just 19 years old, Andrew’s life imploded after selling weed to an undercover cop and spending 30 days in jail. What followed was a six-year spiral into OxyContin, heroin, and IV drug use that nearly killed him—literally. On Christmas Eve, after a near-fatal overdose, his life changed forever.In this raw and inspiring episode, Andrew opens up about:Growing up in Jersey and the trauma of divorceHow college freedom led to experimenting with every drug imaginableHis arrest, addiction, and overdoseGetting clean in a halfway house with nothing but two suitcasesWorking at a pizza shop with 3 feloniesRebuilding his life, starting a business, and becoming a fatherHow fitness, community, and spirituality keep him grounded 14 years laterThis is one of the most powerful transformation stories we've ever heard on Rise Above. #addictionrecovery #heroinaddict #sobrietyjourney #recoveryispossible #drugaddiction #mentalhealthawareness #cleanandsober #soberlife #fromaddictiontorecovery #faithoverfear #overdoseawareness #rebuildyourlife #oxycodone #halfwayhouse #recoverycommunity #spiritualgrowth #soberliving #addictionstories #riseabovepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maddee was prescribed 300 oxycodone 30s a month after a minor injury. What followed was years of addiction, jail time for marijuana DUIs, a suicide attempt, and being told she had 8 years of prison hanging over her head. But when rock bottom came, she made a decision that would change her life forever.Now 10 years clean, Maddee shares how jail saved her life, how journaling and prayer helped her stay off opiates, and what it means to live in God’s will. She opens up about her childhood trauma, being prescribed drugs by a corrupt doctor, and the moment she chose to live — not just for herself, but for those who didn’t make it out. #AddictionRecovery #OxyContinCrisis #FaithInSobriety #PrisonSavedMe #RedemptionStory #DrugCourt #OvercomingAddiction #WomenInRecovery #SuicideSurvivor #MentalHealthAwareness #JailToFreedom #RiseAbovePodcast #OpenRecovery #SoberLife #TraumaHealing #GodsPlan #MiracleStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At 25, Michael Barschi was crippled by anxiety, drowning in addiction, and secretly planning to end it all. Today, he's 22 years sober, a father of three, and one of the most respected therapists in the recovery space.In this powerful episode, I sit down with the man who helped me through my first year of sobriety—my former social worker, Michael Barschi. We talk about his darkest moments: the shame of dropping out of law school, suicidal depression, and the painful journey through early recovery.He opens up about the moment that changed everything, how therapy saved his life, and why relapse doesn’t always mean failure. Michael also shares the truth about maintaining sobriety, building a life after addiction, and why there's no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery.Whether you're newly sober, struggling with mental health, or just searching for hope—this episode will leave you inspired.🔗 Michael’s Website: https://michaelbarschi.com📲 Sponsored by OpenRecovery – Download the app for 24/7 support in your sobriety journey. #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #RelapseRecovery #TherapyWorks #AA #Anxiety #SoberLife #AddictionHelp #SoberCommunity #OpenRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #FromRockBottom #HealingJourney #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kat Sorensen (@socalkattt) drank for the first time at age 7, blacked out by 13, and was married and cheating by her early 20s — all while hiding her addiction behind a successful career. But when her double life nearly cost her everything, she surrendered to recovery and found purpose in helping others.Now, 9.5 years sober, Kat shares how she went from suicidal thoughts and secret drug use to launching a global sober community, building multiple businesses, and living a life rooted in faith and service.This is one of the most unfiltered and powerful stories we’ve ever told.🚨 Listen to the full episode and hear:Her first blackout at 13The secret she kept from her husbandHow she married a stranger in AA after 21 daysGetting clean without rehabStarting a FREE global sobriety platformAnd how cold plunges, structure, and service keep her grounded todayConnect with Kat:Instagram: @socalkatttHer free sobriety platform: https://changetochange.circle.soSponsored by OpenRecovery – the anonymous addiction help app with 24/7 support. #Sobriety #AddictionRecovery #AlcoholicsAnonymous #SoberLife #RecoveryStory #SoberCommunity #KatSorensen #RiseAbove #DrugAddiction #WomenInRecovery #TraumaToTriumph #ColdPlunge #SoberLiving #ChangeToChange #FaithBasedRecovery #MentalHealth #aa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robert was born into chaos—raised by a controlling mother, traumatized by his father’s suicide at 8, and conditioned to seek validation in everything but himself. After achieving 10 years sober, he relapsed and spiraled, losing his business, wife, and—most painfully—custody of his daughter. But in the ashes of devastation, Robert found God, healing, and a new identity.In this raw, unfiltered interview, Robert opens up about childhood trauma, toxic love, addiction, codependency, relapse, and redemption. His journey reminds us that it’s never too late to rebuild—and that recovery isn’t just about sobriety, it’s about coming home to yourself.👉 Subscribe for more inspiring interviews🎧 Available on all podcast platforms📲 Sponsored by OpenRecovery: Get 24/7 addiction help from your phone.#AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #ChildhoodTrauma #AARecovery #Alcoholism #RiseAbovePodcast #RobertStory #MentalHealthAwareness #RelapseRecovery #FatherWound #CodependencyRecovery #FaithAndSobriety #HealingFromTrauma #InnerChildHealing #OpenRecovery #SobrietySuccess #OvercomingAddiction #SoberLife #TraumaHealing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Louis grew up in privilege—but addiction doesn’t discriminate. In this raw and emotional interview, he opens up about getting arrested, battling drug and gambling addictions, and testifying in a high-profile murder trial involving his former best friend. From being publicly shamed in the press to rebuilding his life through sobriety, Louis shares how he broke a generational curse and stepped into fatherhood, service, and peace.This story is about hitting rock bottom—and then going deeper. It’s about trauma, loss, family healing, and rising above it all.#AddictionRecovery #MurderTrial #DrugAddict #SobrietyJourney #RedemptionStory #GamblersAnonymous #MentalHealthMatters #RiseAbovePodcast #Testify #OvercomingAddiction #PublicShaming #SecondChances #OpenRecovery #FromChaosToClarity #NYCStories #SoberLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Krystal’s story is nothing short of incredible. Her father immigrated to America from Nigeria with just $20 in his pocket and walked miles to enroll in college—on the last possible day. Years later, Krystal faced a defining moment of her own: she walked away from medical school against her family’s wishes, lied about it for months, and hustled her way from sleeping on a friend’s couch to landing a job at Spotify.In this episode of Rise Above, we unpack:Her Nigerian-American upbringing and her parents’ sacrificesThe immense pressure to become a doctor—and the moment she said “no”How cold emailing and pure hustle got her into Uber, HBO, and eventually SpotifyThe power of acts of kindness, paying it forward, and building communityWhy Gen Z has no excuses—but also faces new, real-world challengesKrystal’s journey is about faith, grit, sacrifice, and trusting your gut even when the world says no. #ImmigrantSuccess #NigerianAmerican #SpotifyJourney #RiseAbovePodcast #WomenInTech #ImmigrantStory #AgainstAllOdds #AfricanParents #LifeChoices #ColdEmailHustle #HBO #UberToSpotify #FromNothingToSomething #PayItForward #Gratitude #SuccessMindset #GenZHustle #LinkedInHacks #ImmigrantStrong #BreakingGenerationalCycles #SpotifyLife #MentalHealthMatters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Hutchinson was a billionaire real estate mogul living a life of luxury—until one phone call changed everything. He went undercover to infiltrate a child sex resort being built by a cartel, and what he witnessed would alter the course of his life forever. In this gripping interview, Paul exposes the brutal reality of child trafficking, the addictions and trauma behind it, and how he made rescuing children his life’s mission.This is the true story that inspired The Sound of Freedom.⚠️ Viewer discretion is advised.🕊️ Learn more at LiberatingHumanity.com#ChildTrafficking #UndercoverRescue #SoundOfFreedom #HumanTraffickingAwareness #AddictionRecovery #SurvivorStories #ExposeTheDarkness #PaulHutchinson #HealingTrauma #RiseAbove #PsychedelicTherapy #FaithAndRedemption #RescueMission #TraumaHealing #TruthSeeker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Olson was a straight-A student at an elite boarding school when he took his first ADHD pill—and it changed everything. What started as prescription meds quickly escalated to Vyvanse, Adderall, benzos, and eventually intravenous heroin and cocaine. By 21, he was prescribed 6mg of Klonopin a day and using over 100 Xanax bars weekly. At 25, on a solo hike in the South of France, Chris had a spiritual awakening that changed the trajectory of his life.In this raw and powerful interview, Chris shares:His early addiction to amphetamines and benzosShooting heroin for the first time and speedballing with cocaineHis failed first attempt at rehab in CaliforniaThe turning point that led him to lasting sobrietyHow fitness, nutrition, and spiritual growth saved his lifeBuilding a new life, falling in love, and staying 7 years soberWhether you're struggling with addiction or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with hard truths, inspiration, and real solutions.👊 Subscribe for more raw stories of recovery and redemption.#AddictionRecovery #SoberLife #HeroinAddict #Benzos #RecoveryStory #MentalHealthAwareness #DrugAddiction #SpiritualAwakening #SobrietyJourney #AmphetamineAddiction #AA #NA #ChrisOlson #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rodney grew up surrounded by addiction, violence, and heartbreak. By 12, he was stealing food to survive. By 14, he was being paid to carry out violent crimes. He faced multiple life sentences—including for a kidnapping—and spiraled into a world of crack cocaine, street justice, and desperation while trying to save his mother from her own addiction. But this is not where his story ends. Rodney opens up about the drive-by shooting that nearly destroyed his life, the death of his mother from an overdose, and the moment he chose faith, fatherhood, and forgiveness over the streets. Now a mentor and author of The Illness, Rodney is on a mission to save the next generation from the same cycle. #PrisonReform #AddictionRecovery #MotherhoodAndAddiction #FromPainToPurpose #FaithOverFear #RedemptionStory #DrugAddictionAwareness #CriminalJustice #OvercomingAdversity #LifeAfterPrison #RodneyStory #RiseAbovePodcast #SurvivorTestimony #MentorshipMatters #BreakTheCycle #ForgivenessJourney #InnerCityStruggles #ResilienceAndHope #CocaineAddiction #GenerationalTrauma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sean went from leading Coast Guard drug busts to becoming a full-blown addict selling the very drugs he once confiscated. He was arrested more times than any cop in history, ended up homeless and addicted, and cycled through 10 rehabs. His story spirals through violence, strip clubs, overdoses, and jail—until a final moment of grace saved his life. Today, Sean runs a successful business, cares for his mother, and uses his story to help others break free.🎧 Watch the full episode to hear how he went from law enforcement to outlaw… and made it back.#AddictionRecovery #DrugAddiction #CocaineAddiction #SobrietyJourney #RockBottom #RedemptionStory #RehabSurvivor #CoastGuard #PoliceToPrison #Inspiration #SalvationArmy #HomelessToHero #RiseAbovePodcast #SoberLife #MentalHealthAwareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Linda Varisco had it all: a thriving chiropractic business, two kids, and what seemed like the perfect marriage. But when her husband spiraled into drug addiction, infidelity, and shady business dealings, her world came crashing down. Caught in a $25M healthcare fraud scheme she didn’t fully understand, Linda cooperated with the FBI—and still ended up behind bars.In this explosive follow-up interview, Dr. Linda shares the raw truth about:– Walking in on her husband cheating– The moment she realized he was addicted to crack– How she was lured into a massive RICO case– Life inside a women’s federal prison (yes, the lesbians, the guards, the yoga...)– Rebuilding from rock bottom into a best-selling author and business leader🎙️ This is one of the most jaw-dropping stories ever told on Rise Above.📚 Her book: The Girl with the Million Dollar Smile#truecrime #prisonstory #federalprison #riseabove #healthcarefraud #addictionrecovery #resilience #womensstories #incarceration #chiropractor #rebuildyourlife #fyp #podcastclips #survivorstories #prisonlife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan Penley was deep in a spiral of addiction — partying in Las Vegas, hooked on alcohol and 14 Roxy pills a day. But nothing could’ve prepared him for what happened next: he blacked out during a multi-day bender… and woke up in jail for trying to decapitate his own mother.In this gripping and brutally honest interview, Ryan shares:His chaotic upbringing with addicted parentsHow a broken leg led to full-blown opiate addictionLife as a bartender in Vegas while using and selling drugsWaking up in jail with no memory of a near-fatal incidentGoing into a diabetic coma and losing everythingThe long road to recovery — starting with just 3 minutes of jumping jacksHow he rebuilt his life into a story of faith, family, and redemptionThis is one of the darkest — and most inspiring — comeback stories ever shared on Rise Above. #AddictionRecovery #AlcoholAddiction #OpiateAddiction #RoxyAddiction #AttemptedMurder #DrugAddiction #BlackoutStory #RockBottom #SobrietyTransformation #RiseAbovePodcast #RedemptionStory #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaSurvivor #FromAddictToAdvocate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this first episode of Rise Above Reflections, I open up about how I lost myself to addiction—and how surrendering to God completely transformed my life.From chasing external validation to battling shame, I reflect on the moments that nearly broke me… and the spiritual breakthrough that saved me.This isn’t just my story—it’s the truth about addiction, identity, and the healing power of faith.🙏 If you're struggling, you're not alone. There is hope.🎧 Listen. Reflect. Rise Above.#AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #RiseAboveReflections #FaithAndHealing #DrugAddictionHelp #AlcoholRecovery #SpiritualAwakening #12StepProgram #MentalHealthAwareness #OvercomingShame #GodSavedMe #RockBottomToRedemption #SoberLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Casey was deep in the Florida pill mill scene—doctor shopping, pushing 40 Roxy 30s a day, and connected to the infamous George brothers. But a violent bust and prison sentence changed everything. In this raw, unfiltered interview, Casey shares how trauma, addiction, and near-death moments led to a full transformation—from inmate to entrepreneur and father fighting for custody of his daughter.⚠️ From DEA raids to witnessing a CO kill an inmate, this is one of the most brutal and inspiring recovery stories ever told on Rise Above.🔔 Subscribe for more stories of redemption and second chances.#AddictionRecovery #Oxycodone #PillMill #FloridaTrafficking #CaseyStory #DrugAddiction #Roxys #DoctorShopping #RiseAbovePodcast #FromPrisonToPurpose #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryIsPossible #ExConSuccess #ParentingAfterPrison #OpiateCrisis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tyler never expected one pain pill would spiral into a full-blown opiate addiction. What started as a prescription for a finger injury turned into 30 OxyContins a day. He was sniffing pills, partying non-stop, and buying Roxys from Camden bodegas. After hitting rock bottom, losing his girlfriend, and nearly ending his life, Tyler checked into treatment and never looked back. In this raw and unfiltered interview, Tyler opens up about: -His terrifying opiate withdrawal -Partying through the “cocaine Olympics” -Surviving a head-on crash with a drunk driver -Getting clean, finding God, and rebuilding his life -How helping others in sobriety helped him heal -Now nearly 2 years sober, Tyler shares what finally worked and how he escaped the deadly grip of addiction. 🎧 Subscribe for weekly stories of rock bottom & redemption. #AddictionRecovery #OxyContin #OpiateAddiction #DrugAddiction #SoberLiving #MentalHealthAwareness #RiseAbovePodcast #FromAddictToAdvocate #RecoveryJourney #SoberLife #12Steps #CleanAndSober #OvercomingAddiction #TraumaHealing #FaithInRecovery #DrugRehab Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marci was just six years old when she had to choose between safety and her own mother. Raised in a home filled with alcoholism, abuse, and betrayal, her childhood was a nightmare. She was groomed, sexually abused, abandoned emotionally by both parents — and began drinking at age 12. By her 20s, she was spiraling through toxic relationships, addiction, and the pain of unhealed trauma. But everything changed after one final breaking point: a DUI that forced her to confront her past, her drinking, and the woman she was becoming. In this raw, emotional conversation, Marci shares how she broke the cycle, found sobriety, wrote a book (Chaos to Clarity), and is now helping others reclaim their lives. Her story is a powerful reminder: you are not your trauma — and healing is possible. 📘 Marci’s Book: Chaos to Clarity 📲 Follow Marci: @WakeUpWithMarci 🎧 Subscribe for more stories of transformation and recovery. #TraumaRecovery #ChildhoodAbuseSurvivor #AddictionRecovery #SoberLife #AARecovery #DUIRecovery #GenerationalTrauma #SurvivorStory #WakeUpWithMarci #ChaosToClarity #MentalHealthAwareness #SobrietyJourney #WomenInRecovery #AlcoholicMother #HealingJourney #RiseAbovePodcast #KevinLanning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kevin Corbin grew up in the chaos of 1980s Boston—gunshots, addiction, and dysfunction were the norm. A star athlete who played junior hockey under a former NHL player, Kevin's life spiraled after one arrest derailed his college dreams. He fell into addiction, worked security at biker bars, and ended up in prison after a toxic relationship led to felony charges. But today, he’s nearly six years sober and helping others rise from rock bottom. In this gripping interview, Kevin opens up about: His brutal time behind bars and fighting to survive How addiction stole his identity as an athlete The near-death motorcycle crash that should’ve killed him Running from police with helicopters and dogs chasing him How volunteering, faith, and mentorship through Chucky’s Fight saved his life Why he believes misery, not connection, is the real antidote to addiction This is one of the rawest, most redemptive stories you’ll hear. From street fights to soul work—Kevin’s comeback proves anyone can rise above. #AddictionRecovery #PrisonStory #RiseAbovePodcast #SobrietyJourney #FromAddictToAdvocate #KevinCorbin #RedemptionStory #SoberLife #OvercomingAddiction #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaToTriumph #FaithAndRecovery #ChuckyFight #AthleteToAddict #RealRecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shauna thought she’d met the perfect man—until one day, he showed up at her door high and told her the feds had just raided his office. What followed was over a decade of addiction, legal chaos, a $12 million fraud case, and prison time.In this raw and powerful interview, Shauna opens up for the first time about surviving an abusive past, building a multi-million dollar lash business from nothing, and holding her family together while her husband battles addiction and incarceration.This is a story of loyalty, grit, and what it really means to rise above.#HiddenAddiction #AddictionRecovery #WifeOfAnAddict #ResilienceStory #FraudCase #FederalPrison #WomenInBusiness #LashBoss #SurvivorStory #RiseAbovePodcast #AddictionAwareness #MarriageAndAddiction #OxycontinCrisis #OvercomingAdversity #FaithAndRecovery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know him from Anchorman, The Office, and Saturday Night Live—but you’ve never heard David Koechner like this. In this raw, emotional interview, David opens up about his decades-long struggle with alcohol, the death of his best friend from fentanyl, a DUI that made TMZ, and the journey that led him to nearly two years of sobriety. He shares how Antabuse, accountability, and spiritual growth have helped him stay on track. From Hollywood fame to devastating relapse, this is a powerful story of resilience, redemption, and real recovery. 🎙️ Subscribe for more honest stories of overcoming addiction and adversity.🙏 Need support? Visit OpenRecovery.com#DavidKoechner #SNL #Anchorman #TheOffice #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #FentanylCrisis #DUIsurvivor #HollywoodSobriety #12StepRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #RiseAbovePodcast #KevinLanning #OpenRecovery #RealTalk #Antabuse #OvercomingAddiction #RoadToRecovery #ComedianLife #FaithInSobriety #GriefAndHealing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At just 15, Alyx was shooting heroin. By 18, she had survived jail, r*pe, and being trafficked in a drug-fueled underworld. In this brutally honest interview, she opens up about the trauma, addiction, and darkness that nearly took her life — and the moment she finally broke free. Now a sober mom and recovery professional, Alyx shares how she found healing, purpose, and peace. This is one of the rawest and most inspiring stories ever told on Rise Above. Watch until the end — her comeback will leave you speechless. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Celebrity addiction expert Dr. Cali Estes opens up about her late husband’s million-dollar heroin and fentanyl addiction, surviving five overdoses, and detoxing in first class at 33,000 feet. In this gripping episode, Dr. Cali reveals what it's like to detox a loved one in your own home, how she built the world’s largest addiction recovery school, and the truth behind Suboxone, SSRIs, and the broken rehab industry. From private detoxes at the Four Seasons to sex addiction, sugar withdrawals, and social media dependency — nothing is off the table. #AddictionRecovery #HeroinAddiction #SuboxoneDetox #CaliEstes #CelebrityRehab #MentalHealthAwareness #DetoxJourney #SoberLiving #SSRIWithdrawal #FentanylCrisis #AddictionHelp #TraumaHealing #AddictionPodcast #SoberIsSexy #SugarDetox #SexAddiction #SocialMediaAddiction #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alexis was molested at 10, pregnant by 16, and selling crack and smoking PCP by 20. After surviving brutal domestic violence, jail time, and near-death drug experiences, she found herself homeless, hopeless — and then, a pastor stepped in. What happened next changed her life forever. Today, Alexis is 8 years sober, a mother of five, and married to a man she met in rehab. This is one of the most raw, emotional, and transformative interviews ever shared on Rise Above. #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyStory #DrugAddiction #CrackCocaine #TraumaHealing #DomesticViolenceSurvivor #PCPAddiction #RiseAbovePodcast #SoberMom #RecoveryJourney #FromPrisonToPurpose #OnlyChildStruggles #EmotionalHealing #FaithAndRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #RealStoriesRealPeople Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jack seemed to have it all — a loving family, standout athletic talent, and a Division 1 baseball scholarship by the age of 16. But behind the scenes, he was battling deep emotional pain, addiction, and suicidal thoughts. In this raw and honest interview, Jack opens up about being expelled in 6th grade, spiraling into drug use by high school, and hitting rock bottom just weeks before leaving for college. After a life-saving decision to enter rehab, Jack has now found purpose helping other young men fight the same demons he once faced. This is a story about ego, pain, identity, family pressure, and the long road to self-awareness and healing. 🎙 If you’re struggling or know someone who is — this episode is for you. #addictionrecovery #mentalhealthawareness #sobrietyjourney #recoveryispossible #riseabovepodcast #inspirationalstories #d1athlete #drugaddiction #rehabstory #faithoverfear #selfgrowth #suicideprevention #youngandclean #overcomingaddiction #cleanandsober Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Austin went from living in a $3 million mansion in Florida and partying like a rock star… to spiraling into full-blown addiction. After years of binge drinking and daily marijuana use, he lost direction, purpose—and even the love of his life. But on April 24, 2022, everything changed. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Austin shares how he went from a promising athlete and successful car salesman to feeling hopeless and broken, and how hitting rock bottom became the wake-up call he needed. Now almost two years sober, Austin is rebuilding his life and using his story to inspire others to find freedom in sobriety. This is a story of resilience, redemption, and what it means to truly take your life back. If you’re struggling with alcohol or know someone who is, Austin’s journey will show you that it’s never too late to rise above. #alcoholism #sobrietyjourney #addictionrecovery #soberlife #rockbottom #mentalhealthawareness #recoveryispossible #soberstories #soberliving #motivation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. JayR McIntyre went from battling poverty, addiction, and jail time in Los Angeles to serving 14 years in the U.S. Army, earning the Bronze Star, and becoming one of LinkedIn’s Top 100 Speakers to Watch. In this raw and inspiring interview, he opens up about losing his mother to AIDS, surviving street life, and finding purpose through service, entrepreneurship, and transformation. This is the story of how pain can become power—and how anyone can rise above their circumstances. #VeteranStory #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #VeteranSupport #IncarcerationToInspiration #CombatVeteran #PTSDRecovery #FromPainToPurpose #RiseAbove #SecondChances #RedemptionStory #MotivationalInterview #MilitaryToCivilian #OvercomingAdversity #TransformYourLife #RecoveryJourney #RealStories #YouTubeInterview #RiseAbovePodcast #JayRMcIntyre Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Athena spent years silently battling an eating disorder that nearly took everything from her. In this raw and emotional interview, she opens up about the secret hell of anorexia, what it took to face her demons, and how hitting rock bottom became the start of her transformation. Her journey is a reminder that even your darkest days can lead to your greatest growth. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, you are not alone—this episode is for you. #EatingDisorderRecovery #AnorexiaAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #RecoveryJourney #HealingFromWithin #RiseAbovePodcast #BodyImageStruggles #YouAreNotAlone #RecoveryIsPossible #SelfLoveJourney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She just shocked the world at UFC 316—and now she holds the UFC bantamweight title. In this exclusive interview, Olympic gold medalist and two-time MMA champion Kayla Harrison shares the raw, unfiltered truth behind her rise to greatness. From surviving sexual abuse and family trauma to becoming a symbol of strength and resilience, Kayla opens up about the pain that forged her and the purpose that fuels her. This is more than a story about athletic triumph—it’s about turning trauma into power, advocating for survivors, and refusing to be broken. Watch as Kayla reveals what drives her in and out of the octagon—and why her fight has always been about more than just winning. #KaylaHarrison #UFC300 #UFCHistory #BantamweightChampion #SurvivorStory #TraumaToTriumph #MMAChampion #OlympicGold #MentalHealthAwareness #WomenInMMA #RiseAbove #UFCChampion #AbuseSurvivor #KaylaHarrisonInterview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nick Marshall had a normal childhood—Disney trips, family dinners, and supportive parents. But underneath it all, he was battling brutal bullying, shame, and identity struggles. What started as seeking acceptance led to drug deals, a robbery crew, and eventually prison time. In this jaw-dropping episode, Nick opens up about the moment it all changed—and how he's now rebuilding his life after incarceration. His raw honesty and journey from ego to humility will leave you speechless. #PrisonStory #DrugDealerToAuthor #TrueCrimePodcast #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #RiseAbovePodcast #RedemptionStory #FromPrisonToPurpose #TryAgain #OvercomingAdversity #EgoToHumility #NickMarshall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nicole Meo survived the unthinkable — a horrific car crash that took the lives of her boyfriend and his best friend. She was the only survivor. What followed was years of pain, guilt, and a descent into opioid addiction after being prescribed OxyContin. Her journey spiraled into psych wards, rock bottom moments, and the darkest corners of active addiction. But against all odds, Nicole clawed her way out — and is now nearly 8 years sober. In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Nicole opens up about the night that changed her life forever, the brutal truth about opioid addiction, and the hope that recovery can bring. 🎙 Watch now for an unforgettable story of trauma, addiction, and redemption. #AddictionRecovery #OxyContinSurvivor #TraumaSurvivor #MentalHealthAwareness #OpioidCrisis #PsychWardSurvivor #SoberLife #SurvivorsGuilt #RecoveryIsPossible #CarCrashSurvivor #8YearsSober #RiseAbovePodcast #SoberTransformation #FromAddictionToRecovery #RealStoriesRealImpact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, professional BKFC fighter Quentin "QG" Gaskins shares the raw truth behind his journey — living sober in a chaotic world. As he gears up for his next big fight, QG opens up about how yoga, breathwork, and daily movement have transformed his mind, body, and spirit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this heartbreaking episode of Rise Above, Salena shares the devastating journey of her son's battle with addiction — from early trouble with the law, to opioid dependence after an injury, and years of struggling to stay alive. After surviving a shooting that left her paralyzed, Salena faced the unimaginable: losing her son to a fentanyl overdose just six months ago. This raw and emotional conversation shines a light on the hidden battles families face behind closed doors — and the brutal toll addiction takes on everyone it touches. Watch her story of pain, resilience, and hard-won wisdom now. #AddictionAwareness #FentanylCrisis #RiseAbovePodcast #OpioidEpidemic #AddictionRecovery #OverdoseAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #ParalysisSurvivor #FamilyAddiction #GriefJourney #SubstanceAbuseAwareness #MothersStory #Resilience #HealingJourney #HeartbreakAndHope Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mason Stevens was shot five times in a violent altercation outside a nightclub — and lived to tell the story. Instead of letting it define him, he turned the trauma into fuel. Now an undefeated professional boxer, Mason shares the gritty, unbelievable journey from near-death to the top of the ring. In this episode of Rise Above, Mason opens up about the shooting, his recovery, the mindset it took to survive, and how fighting in the ring gave his life new purpose. #Boxing #Undefeated #BoxingTraining #Motivation #Inspiration #Mindset #Comeback #Survivor #OvercomeObstacles #YouTubeShorts #ViralVideo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we sit down with Ana Isabel Hume, aka Anabel — lifestyle and sports host, fitness competitor, and mental health advocate — for one of our most raw and powerful conversations yet. Anabel opens up about losing her father to suicide, being diagnosed with a brain tumor at 11, living with a shunt, growing up around addiction, and surviving a marriage marked by PTSD and emotional trauma. Despite the odds, she rebuilt her life through faith, healing, and discipline — and now she's helping others do the same. For anyone who’s walked through pain and still found the courage to rise — this episode will leave you inspired. #trauma #ptsdrecovery #addictionrecovery #mentalhealthawareness #healingjourney #faithoverfear #resilience #overcomingtrauma #survivorstories #mentalhealthmatters #riseabove #healingfromtrauma #addictionawareness #emotionalhealing #inspiration #motivationalstories #mentalhealthsupport #growthmindset #traumasurvivor #recoveryjourney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David was a corrections officer assigned to death row—what he witnessed during those two years broke him. From chilling confessions to disturbing inmate behavior, this interview uncovers the dark side of the prison system that most people never see. The trauma ultimately led David to walk away from the job for good. This is his story. #DeathRow #CorrectionsOfficer #PrisonStories #MentalHealthAwareness #TrueCrime #BehindBars #PrisonSystem #DarkSideOfPrison #RiseAbovePodcast #CriminalJustice #PrisonReform #GuardStories #PsychologicalTrauma #InmateConfessions #LifeOnDeathRow #PrisonDocumentary #RealStories #PrisonTruths #TrueCrimeCommunity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, host Kevin Lanning sits down with John Ulsh, a motivational speaker and coach who has turned personal tragedy into a mission to inspire others.​ Seventeen years ago, John survived a devastating car accident that led to over 45 surgeries and numerous setbacks. Through unwavering determination, he transformed his pain into purpose, developing a roadmap for resilience that has empowered countless individuals to overcome their own challenges.​ Join us as John shares his journey of recovery, the mindset shifts that fueled his transformation, and actionable strategies to help you build an unbreakable spirit.​ #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryIsPossible #MentalHealthAwareness #SoberLife #OneDayAtATime #CleanAndSober #TraumaHealing #SelfImprovement #MindsetMatters #Motivation #Inspiration #Transformation #LifeAfterAddiction #HealingJourney #RiseAbovePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kelsey grew up fast in a home filled with alcoholism and chaos — with both parents struggling and her father disappearing from her life for 14 years. By age 10, she was caring for her younger sister and operating far beyond her years. On the outside, she was a high achiever: great college, rising corporate career — but on the inside, addiction and depression were taking over. In this raw and unfiltered interview, Kelsey shares what it was like living inside an alcoholic’s chaotic lifestyle, the dark spiral she fell into, and how she finally hit rock bottom. With nowhere left to turn, she followed the same path as her parents — a 12-step program — and slowly rebuilt her life. Now seven years sober and a successful entrepreneur, Kelsey opens up about the reality of addiction, the pain behind the mask, and what it truly takes to find freedom. #addictionrecovery #AlcoholismAwareness #SoberLife #12StepProgram #MentalHealthMatters #RiseAbove #RockBottomToRedemption Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica nearly lost everything to addiction — including her life. While she struggled with various substances, it was nitrous oxide that almost killed her. Her true rock bottom came in an unexpected way: after receiving the Johnson & Johnson COVID shot, Jessica became paralyzed. But what could have ended her story became her awakening. Four years sober today, Jessica has completely transformed her life. She now dedicates herself to helping others as a life coach and sober coach, using her experience to guide people out of the darkness she once knew so well. In this powerful and emotional interview, Jessica opens up about: • The dangers of nitrous oxide addiction • The moment she became paralyzed • How she found the strength to get sober • Her journey from addiction to purpose • The work she’s doing now to help others heal This is a story of resilience, recovery, and redemption you don’t want to miss. #RecoveryIsPossible #SoberLife #AddictionRecovery #SoberCoach #MentalHealthAwareness #Sobriety #RecoveryJourney #SoberLiving #LifeCoach #SoberCommunity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nick lost his father at just 7 years old and was homeless soon after. By his early teens, he was selling drugs to survive—and at 16, he stabbed someone and was sentenced to Rikers Island. After reoffending, he served another prison term. But after that second stint, everything changed. Nick got sober, walked away from the street life, and started over. He launched a moving company, bought real estate, and—alongside his brother—opened one of the most successful jewelry stores in Brooklyn, New York. Today, he’s a clean and sober family man, a father of two, a business owner, and a symbol of what’s possible when you never give up. In this episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, Nick shares the raw and inspiring story of how he overcame trauma, addiction, violence, and incarceration—and rose above it all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this explosive prison phone call interview, Kevin Lanning connects with Joe Exotic, the notorious “Tiger King,” for a raw and unfiltered conversation straight from behind bars. Joe shares a shocking update on his ongoing fight for a presidential pardon from Donald Trump, opens up about the possibility of Tiger King Part 2, and doesn’t hold back on his current legal battles. He also delivers a heartbreaking account of the inhumane conditions he's facing in prison, shedding light on the reality of life on the inside. This isn’t just another Joe Exotic story — this is a plea for justice, a call for change, and a glimpse into a man the world thought it knew. Subscribe now and leave a review — you’ve never heard Joe like this before. #JoeExotic #TigerKing #TrumpPardon #PrisonInterview #FreeJoeExotic #TigerKing2 #BreakingNews #JoeExoticInterview #DonaldTrump #TigerKingUpdate #joerogan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this gripping episode of Rise Above, Kim shares the unfiltered truth about life as an IV heroin addict — from shooting up daily to selling heroin alongside her own mother. Caught in a generational cycle of addiction, Kim’s story is unlike anything we’ve shared before. She opens up about the codependent bond she shared with her mom, how they used and dealt drugs together, and the moment she knew she had to break away — not just to survive, but to finally live. Now sober and rebuilding her life, Kim’s journey is a raw look at the brutality of addiction, the courage it takes to walk away from family, and the hope that recovery brings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kyle Sandler was once hailed as the tech savior of a small Alabama town — a former Google executive launching a startup incubator with big promises. He raised millions, inspired dreams, and even claimed to have worked closely with cybersecurity pioneer John McAfee. But it was all a lie. In this exclusive interview, Kyle opens up about the truth behind the scam, the fantasy he created, and how he convinced an entire community — and even national media — to believe in him. From tech deception to prison time, this is one of the most unbelievable stories in startup history. This is a raw, honest conversation about ego, addiction to power, and the cost of deception. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Norton’s life changed in an instant when a tackle during a college football game left him paralyzed. Doctors gave him just a 3% chance of regaining movement, but Chris refused to accept that fate. Through relentless determination and unwavering faith, he not only defied the odds but also made headlines when he walked across the stage at graduation and later down the aisle at his wedding. In this powerful conversation, Chris shares his journey of resilience, mindset shifts, and what it truly means to rise above adversity. 🔹 Overcoming paralysis 🔹 The mindset that changed everything 🔹 Walking at his wedding against all odds 🎧 Listen now and be inspired by Chris’s incredible story! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, I sit down with Elizabeth Chance, who is approaching 19 years of sobriety. She opens up about the chaos of alcoholism, the breaking point that changed everything, and how she was able to find lasting sobriety. Elizabeth shares the raw truth about addiction, the struggles of early recovery, and the tools she used to maintain a sober life. Whether you’re in recovery, struggling with addiction, or supporting a loved one, her journey is one of hope, resilience, and transformation. 🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring stories of overcoming adversity! 📩 Need support? Drop a comment below or reach out—you're not alone. #RiseAbove #Sobriety #Recovery #Alcoholism #Addiction #SoberLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when the FBI believes you’re involved in one of the worst attacks in history? After 9/11, Khalid’s life took a shocking turn when he was interrogated and followed by federal agents—all because hijacker #20 was a member of his mosque and a childhood friend. Brutal interrogations, relentless surveillance, and a world flipped upside down—Khalid’s story didn’t end there. Instead, he made an unbelievable pivot: from being accused to becoming a spy for the U.S. government. In this episode of Rise Above, Khalid reveals the truth behind his terrifying FBI encounters, the shocking moment he realized his friend was a terrorist, and his transformation into a covert intelligence asset. This is a story you won’t believe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Chernow’s powerful story of overcoming alcoholism and transforming his life is nothing short of inspiring. From battling addiction to becoming a successful entrepreneur, Michael shares his raw and honest journey of hitting rock bottom, finding sobriety, and building Creatures of Habit, a brand dedicated to health, wellness, and personal growth. In this conversation, Michael opens up about: • The struggles of alcoholism and its impact on his life • The turning point that led him to seek help • The challenges and triumphs of sobriety • How he channeled his energy into entrepreneurship • Advice for anyone struggling with addiction If you or someone you know is battling addiction, this episode is a must-watch. Let Michael’s story serve as proof that change is possible, and success is within reach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Norman Seabrook, the once-powerful president of the Corrections Officers’ Union at Rikers Island, built a reputation as one of the most influential figures in the prison system—until it all came crashing down. Arrested and convicted for corruption, Norman went from overseeing guards to serving time behind bars. In this explosive interview, he reveals the dark realities of Rikers Island, the power struggles within the system, and what led to his shocking downfall. Was he a corrupt leader or a victim of the system he once controlled? Watch now to hear the untold story from the man who lived it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nelson was once at the top of a multi-million dollar health insurance fraud scheme—until the feds came knocking. In this episode of Rise Above, he takes us inside the world of healthcare fraud, how he got caught, and what life was like in federal prison. But his story doesn’t end there. After serving his time, Nelson turned his life around, overcoming a heavy binge eating disorder and building a new career in podcasting. This is a raw and inspiring conversation about crime, redemption, and second chances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nick, an Air Force Sergeant, shares his harrowing experiences from multiple deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan—dodging bullets, surviving bombings, and losing friends to war and suicide. In this powerful episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, he opens up about the lasting mental health toll of combat and the tools he’s used to heal. Now a fitness trainer, Nick has transformed his trauma into strength, proving that resilience is possible after war. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Kevin Lanning sits down with John Valerio, a man whose journey from suburban normalcy to addiction, crime, and near-death survival is nothing short of jaw-dropping. John opens up about how a tragic turn of events spiraled his life out of control—starting with his father’s sudden abandonment, a painkiller prescription after a quad accident, and how it all led to full-blown heroin addiction. As his need for the next fix grew, so did the chaos: robberies, gun violence, and prison time became his reality. But John's story didn’t end there. In one of the most shocking moments of his life, John survived a suicide attempt that should have killed him. Instead, it became his turning point. Now, he’s not only clean and sober but also a dedicated father, family man, and successful business owner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, BetterHelp. Get 10% off your first month at: betterhelp.com/riseabove In this special episode of Rise Above, the roles are reversed as Annabella Rockwell interviews the usual host, Kevin Lanning. Kevin opens up about his personal journey—starting from his days playing college sports, climbing the ranks in corporate America, and eventually facing addiction to OxyContin. Now, with 7 years clean and sober, Kevin shares the powerful tools, mindset shifts, and support systems that keep him grounded and on track every day. This honest and vulnerable conversation dives deep into overcoming addiction, finding purpose after hitting rock bottom, and what it really takes to maintain sobriety long-term. If you’re seeking inspiration or strategies to rise above your own challenges, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At just 16, Mo Nelson was involved in a robbery on the USF campus in Florida that turned tragic when his codefendant shot and killed a 57-year-old man. Charged with first-degree murder and attempted robbery, Mo was sentenced to 15 years in prison. But instead of letting prison define him, he took full accountability, surrounded himself with the right people, and committed to deep self-reflection and change. Today, Mo is a completely different person—helping others break cycles of crime and find a better path. In this episode, Mo shares his journey of transformation, what prison taught him about life, and how he turned his darkest moment into a mission to inspire others. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason Votrobek, once at the center of one of the most notorious pill mill operations in the country, joins me for an exclusive interview to reveal the shocking truth behind the prescription drug epidemic. As the co-owner of Atlanta Medical Group, a Georgia-based pain clinic that became one of the top distributors of Oxycodone in the nation, Votrobek made millions before the law caught up with him. His network of pill mill pain clinics stretched from Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta, flooding the streets with highly addictive opioids and fueling a crisis that devastated countless lives.In this deep-dive conversation, Jason opens up about: 🔹 How his clinics operated as a front for mass opioid distribution 🔹 The loopholes that allowed pill mills to thrive across state lines 🔹 The role of doctors, fake patients, and big pharma in fueling the crisis 🔹 His 15-year federal prison sentence and what he learned behind bars 🔹 The impact of the opioid epidemic and his message for those still struggling This is a raw and unfiltered look at the rise and fall of a pill mill empire. Watch now to hear Jason’s side of the story and the lessons he learned from living on both sides of the law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ross Mandell, a former Wall Street broker and the founder of Sky Capital, once dominated the financial markets before being convicted of a $140 million fraud scheme and serving over nine years in prison. Accused of manipulating the London Stock Exchange, Mandell faced intense legal battles, extradition challenges, and the harsh realities of the federal justice system. Now free and determined to make a difference, Mandell has reinvented himself as an educator and online course creator. He shares hard-earned lessons through The Wealth Formula, teaching others how to turn ideas into businesses. Beyond finance, he has dedicated himself to helping families navigate college recruitment and coaching young athletes. In this interview, Mandell breaks down his rise in the financial world, the scandals that led to his downfall, his struggles with addiction, and his inspiring journey to redemption. From speaking in the House of Parliament to the inside story of the Madoff scandal—this is a must-watch deep dive into the mind of a man who lost everything and fought to build a new legacy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach Rance, known from Big Brother, reveals the harsh reality of life after the show, describing how his world came crashing down. In this powerful conversation, he shares how he hit rock bottom and rebuilt his life through structure, discipline, consistency, and fitness. Now a thriving entrepreneur, Zach opens up about the mindset and habits that helped him turn it all around. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Daniel Phaithaisong, better known as internet personality Dpeezy2099, opens up about his addiction to Xanax, lean, and methadone, as well as his struggles with the law that led to multiple stints in prison. In 2021, while living in a sober house, he discovered content creation—a passion that not only changed his life but also helped him stay clean. Daniel shares the highs and lows of his journey, from the depths of addiction and incarceration to finding purpose through social media. His story is a testament to resilience, proving that no matter how far someone falls, there is always a way back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Jablin lived a double life—on the surface, he was a devoted husband and father, but behind closed doors, he was battling a relentless addiction to alcohol. Now sober since 2006, he shares the brutal consequences of his alcoholism, how it tore apart his family, and the turning point that led him to recovery. In this powerful episode, Adam discusses where and how to get help, his experience bridging back to life, and the challenges of navigating divorce with kids while rebuilding trust and purpose. His story is a raw and inspiring testament to the power of redemption and second chances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Linda Varisco was indicted in a massive FBI healthcare fraud case—but that’s not where her story ends. In this episode of Rise Above, she shares her side of the scandal, the lessons she learned, and how she rebuilt her life after facing federal charges. From being named in a high-profile indictment to finding redemption, Dr. Varisco’s journey is one of resilience, accountability, and transformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debi Borger, founder of DB Wellbeing and creator of the transformative E3 Method, shares her powerful story of recovery and reinvention. After a devastating car wreck and hitting rock bottom, Debi got sober, but for her first nine years, she avoided working a recovery program, which led to heartbreak, ending an engagement, and moving back home. Now, with over a decade of sobriety and actively working a program, Debi has rebuilt her life as a life coach and nutritionist, helping others overcome similar struggles. In this interview, she opens up about the difference between going it alone and embracing a program, navigating social settings sober, overcoming trauma, and empowering women to elevate their lives through mindset, fitness, and holistic wellness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Rise Above, Parker, a recovering fentanyl and heroin addict, shares her powerful journey of relapse and redemption. She opens up about how not working a strong recovery program led her back to a brutal lifestyle of addiction, but also how she found the strength to rebound and rebuild. Parker dives deep into the lessons learned from her relapse, the harsh realities of addiction, and the mindset shifts that saved her life, offering inspiration for anyone battling addiction or supporting someone in recovery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Hollins Jr. was on top of the world as the #1 high school recruit in the country, destined for greatness—until one fateful night changed everything. Sentenced to four years in prison for stabbing two men at a college party, Brett faced the devastating consequences of his actions. But his story doesn’t end there. After serving his time, Brett rebuilt his life, becoming a symbol of resilience and redemption. Today, he dedicates himself to helping others rise above their own hardships and find a path to recovery and purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan, 13 years sober from fentanyl and heroin, shares his raw and unfiltered journey of addiction and redemption. From running the dangerous streets of Kensington, robbing dealers, and spending time in jail to going through 20+ inpatient facilities, Dan’s story is a powerful testament to resilience and hope. Tune in to hear how he turned his life around and found purpose in sobriety. If you’re struggling or know someone who is, this conversation could be the inspiration they need. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robert shares his powerful story of transformation after being sentenced to 23 years in federal prison for cocaine conspiracy and a firearm charge. A major drug dealer in Tampa, he served nearly 18 years, starting in high-security and working his way down to a camp. Released early during Covid under the CARES Act, Robert has since rebuilt his life. Now married and thriving in real estate, he opens up about life behind bars, the resilience it took to start over, and his path to success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teresa's journey is one of resilience and transformation. Abused by her stepfather, a teen mom at 16, and enduring a painful divorce, she overcame immense challenges to rewrite her story and reshape her family's future. With over 25 years as an entrepreneur and executive, she has built high-performing teams, managed multi-million dollar projects, and founded a million-dollar company. In this episode, Teresa shares her inspiring journey, hard-earned lessons, and practical tools for building strength and resilience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmanuel Lewis, a former prison correctional guard, endured grueling 16-hour workdays, understaffed facilities, and the daily pressures of managing inmates. The relentless stress not only took a toll on his mental health but also triggered a rare heart condition that caused his skin to turn white over a year. In this eye-opening interview, Emmanuel shares his incredible story of resilience, the challenges of his profession, and the physical transformation that left everyone speechless. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Savannah shares her raw and unfiltered journey from the depths of addiction to a life of recovery and hope. Once caught in the grip of heroin and fentanyl, she turned to stripping and selling drugs in strip clubs to support her habit, which eventually led to jail time. Her story is wild, heartbreaking, and ultimately one of resilience and redemption, as she overcame incredible odds to get clean and sober and now inspires others to do the same. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a riveting episode of the Rise Above Podcast! In this exclusive interview, we speak with the notorious Joe Exotic, star of Netflix's "Tiger King," straight from prison. Joe opens up about his latest efforts to secure a pardon, his ambitions to run for president in 2024, and the shocking conditions inside the prison. Joe shares the latest developments in his bid for a presidential pardon, discusses his bold plans to run for president and his vision for America, and exposes the appalling state of cleanliness in the prison. He also provides insight into his mental health journey while incarcerated and lightens the mood with some entertaining and unexpected stories from behind bars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frank Parisi, whose family founded the iconic Parisi Bakery in Little Italy, shares his extraordinary journey of resilience and transformation. Battling the shadow of his father’s organized crime ties and his own addiction to opiates, Frank emerged 13 years clean and sober, embracing mindset shifts and strategies for growth. In this episode, he opens up about overcoming adversity, achieving abundance, and building a lasting legacy. Frank’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-discovery, offering practical advice for anyone ready to reclaim their life and thrive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rachel shares her journey through alcoholism, the turning point that led her to sobriety, and the profound impact it had on her mental health. With honesty and courage, Rachel discusses the struggles of addiction, the challenges of recovery, and how embracing sobriety has transformed her life. Her story is a testament to resilience and hope, inspiring others to overcome their own obstacles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Rise Above, singer-songwriter Gabrielle Cacciola opens up about her journey of resilience and creativity. Hailing from the Bronx, Gabrielle shares her experiences with anxiety and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle changes and addressing root causes over medication. She discusses her Italian heritage, her family’s deep musical roots, and the story behind her upcoming single set to release in January. Gabrielle also delves into her martial arts journey, training alongside MMA fighters and the Pereira family, and how it has shaped her discipline and mental health. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity and embracing self-empowerment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From rock bottom to redemption, Louis Essig shares his incredible journey of transformation. After experiencing the cycle of addiction, homelessness, and incarceration, Louis turned his life around in an unexpected way—by becoming an officer at the very jail where he once served time. In this powerful episode, Louis opens up about growing up in a small town, the challenges of college life, his time as a dealer, and the pivotal moments that changed his path forever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into the world of Mark Chauppetta, a seasoned private detective, as he shares gripping stories from his career, including the Karen Read case, shocking inmate scandals, and the dark truths of the entertainment industry. In this candid conversation, Mark opens up about the mental toll of his work, the challenges of undercover investigations, and balancing a demanding career with family life. This powerful blend of shocking revelations and heartfelt insights offers a unique look at resilience, justice, and the intense pressures behind the scenes. A must-watch for true crime and mental health enthusiasts alike! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Katie, a former nurse, became addicted to opiates after being prescribed Percocet following surgery. Her addiction led to stealing liquid Fentanyl from work and using it intravenously. In 2022, she faced federal charges and hit rock bottom. Now, two years clean, Katie has turned her life around. She’s reestablished her connection with God and speaks at facilities to warn others about addiction and educate nurses on the severity of her actions. She’s a loving mother, devoted wife, and a powerful example of redemption and faith. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this gripping episode of Rise Above, Manny, a 1% biker in the infamous Outlaws Motorcycle Club, shares his extraordinary journey of survival and transformation. From being shot in the face and stabbed to battling a near-fatal struggle with alcoholism in 2020, Manny’s story is one of unrelenting adversity and remarkable resilience. Now sober, Manny reflects on the lessons he’s learned, the challenges of his past, and the strength it took to rise above it all. This is a story you don’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andreea, shares her story of being arrested for assisting immigrants in entering the country and committing tax fraud tied to Gene Friedman’s yellow cab taxi company. After serving prison time, Andreea turned her life around and is now the host of a successful podcast and a thriving business owner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this eye-opening episode, Karissa shares her harrowing journey through addiction, multiple DWIs, and the dark realities of an alcoholic's lifestyle. We dive into the psychological factors that lead to reckless decisions like drunk driving, the development of drinking issues, and the devastating long-term effects of substance abuse. Karissa opens up about her struggles, the dangerous behaviors fueled by alcohol, and the deeper issues behind addiction, offering raw insights into her path to self-awareness and recovery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Retired NYPD Detective Tom Smith, host of the Gold Shields podcast, shares a gripping account of one of the most intense moments in his career—stopping a school shooter on the day of the planned attack. With 17 years of experience on the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, Tom provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at high-stakes law enforcement. From life-saving decisions to the relentless dedication required to protect the public, this episode dives deep into the challenges, skills, and moments that defined his extraordinary career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Kevin Lanning sits down with Ginjer, a recovering opiate addict and alcoholic whose life took a devastating turn during the height of the opiate epidemic. Ginjer opens up about the tragic night she fatally struck a 16-year-old girl while driving under the influence, an event that led to her imprisonment. Now in recovery, she shares her raw and emotional journey of accountability, healing, and redemption. This is a story of unimaginable loss, personal growth, and the hope for a second chance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Victor Shear's life took a dark turn when his opiate addiction spiraled out of control. To fund his habit, he became a professional bank robber, a decision that ultimately landed him in Clinton prison in New York. Released in 2020, Victor has since turned his life around and is now clean. In this raw and powerful episode, he opens up about the highs and lows of his journey—from addiction and crime to recovery and redemption. Don’t miss this gripping story of resilience and transformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bryan reveals his gripping journey from working with the infamous Gulf Cartel to surviving the harsh realities of Texas federal prisons. In this episode, Bryan shares the high-stakes life of drug trafficking, his run-ins with the DEA, and the life-or-death decisions he faced behind bars. Discover how he turned his darkest moments into a story of resilience and redemption. Don’t miss this eye-opening account of crime, punishment, and transformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From a life of crime to the spotlight of hip-hop, Majesti’s journey is one of resilience, redemption, and transformation. In this episode, she opens up about her raw and unfiltered path—overcoming prison, embracing her passion, and rising as a powerful voice in the music world. Don’t miss this inspiring story of a career criminal turned rap icon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step inside America’s most successful correctional facility, where one warden’s focus on rehabilitation and mental health has led to the lowest repeat offender rate in the country. Hear how he transforms lives while balancing his own mental well-being in this inspiring interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this inspiring episode, Mike Peters shares his powerful story of resilience, from his challenging beginnings in the inner city to a life-altering journey through the prison system. Faced with the pressure to support his family, Mike turned to selling drugs, a choice that ultimately led him to incarceration. But instead of giving up, he used his time to reflect, grow, and prepare for a new path. Now, Mike is a successful entrepreneur, defying the odds and breaking the cycle. Join us as Mike reveals how he overcame immense adversity and transformed his life from survival to success, inspiring others to believe in second chances and the power of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, we sit down with D'nita, a former D1 college basketball star and prison corrections officer from New Jersey, whose life took an unimaginable turn in an instant. One morning on her way to work, a car accident changed everything, taking a life and placing her on a path that led from guarding prison cells to living in one. D'nita shares her journey of resilience, the strength she found after multiple surgeries, and how she’s finding meaning in her new life. Join us for a raw conversation about accountability, healing, and how one moment can redefine everything. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, Jacob Gentry shares the harrowing story of his wrongful conviction for murder—a sentence that nearly cost him 30 years of his life. What started as a night of self-defense in a brutal fight turned into a legal nightmare when corrupt prosecutors twisted the truth, painting Jacob as a killer. Instead of justice, Jacob was thrown into a broken system, branded a murderer, and sentenced to decades behind bars. He reveals the details of his fight for freedom, the shocking misconduct in his case, and how his conviction was ultimately overturned. This episode exposes the deep flaws in the criminal justice system and the resilience of a man determined to clear his name. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into the world of wiretaps and covert investigations with Jon Molik, a veteran detective and wiretap expert. In this in-depth interview, Jon reveals the fascinating techniques and challenges behind catching criminals on tape, sharing some of the most unexpected and humorous moments he’s experienced in law enforcement. Now living a sober life, Jon also discusses his personal journey to sobriety, reflecting on how it has impacted his perspective on his work, life, and resilience. This episode offers a unique look into the highs and lows of investigative work, the realities of life after law enforcement, and an inspiring story of overcoming adversity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, Steve shares his unbelievable story of survival, resilience, and success. After losing both parents to cartel violence in Cali, Colombia, Steve was thrust into a world of uncertainty at a young age. But through grit and determination, he carved a path from working in nightclubs to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Join us as Steve opens up about his journey—surviving tragedy, overcoming resentment, and finding happiness. This conversation is packed with insights on personal growth, the importance of relationships, and what it takes to turn dreams into reality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In this powerful episode, Olivia shares her gripping story of addiction, recovery, and redemption. From the chaotic lifestyle of opiate and heroin abuse to her journey through jail and rehab, Olivia opens up about the darkest moments of her life, including the shocking discovery that her dad's dealer was fueling her addiction. Now over six years clean, Olivia is turning her life around and pursuing her passion to become a nurse. Join us as she talks about overcoming judgment, finding purpose, and the strength it takes to rise above a brutal past. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, Dr. Nadine Macaluso shares her experiences, including her marriage to Jordan Belfort, 'The Wolf of Wall Street.' Our conversation goes beyond her story, diving into the psychology of trauma bonding, narcissism, gaslighting, and manipulation. Dr. Nadine sheds light on recognizing toxic behaviors and the process of breaking free, while also sharing what truly defines a healthy, supportive relationship. Whether you're interested in her journey or want to understand the dynamics of abusive relationships, this episode offers valuable insights on healing and building resilience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Rise Above, I sit down with a career criminal whose life has been shaped by a cycle of crime, gang loyalty, and years spent in correctional facilities across Tennessee. With raw honesty, he shares his story, detailing the choices that led him into a life of crime and the influence of gang culture on his decisions. Together, we explore the factors that pull individuals into this world, the hard truths of prison life, and the challenges of finding purpose and change within the prison walls. His journey offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of someone who has lived almost entirely within the system—and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, Alana Wilson opens up about her difficult journey growing up in Queens, New York, facing the harsh realities of abuse, bullying, and the devastating impact of incarceration on her family. From uncovering dark family secrets, including her father’s criminal past, to battling depression and low self-esteem, Alana’s story is one of resilience and transformation. She shares how she overcame these traumatic experiences, found healing, and turned her pain into purpose, now helping others who face similar struggles. This is a deeply emotional and inspiring story you won’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this jaw-dropping episode, we uncover Reggie’s unbelievable comeback story! After surviving horrific childhood abuse and serving time in prison, Reggie turned his life around in a way no one saw coming. He walked across the country twice to honor his late mother, won the prestigious Presidential Award for Community Service, and even teamed up with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, earning a shoutout on Instagram. From victim to community hero and radio host, Reggie’s story will leave you speechless. Watch now to see how he defied all odds and inspired millions! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful interview, JD Delay, a former prison gang leader and career criminal, opens up about his turbulent past. From battling a severe meth addiction to becoming a prison shot caller, JD's story is one of crime, chaos, and ultimately, redemption. Now 5 years sober, JD shares his incredible journey to sobriety, what led him to turn his life around, and how he has become a social media sensation. Join us for an inspiring conversation on overcoming addiction, breaking free from a life of crime, and finding purpose after prison. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of 'Rise Above,' we sit down with Devan, who shares her incredible journey of overcoming addiction and finding hope after a devastating loss. After losing her father in a tragic accident caused by a drunk driver, Devan spiraled into a world of self-destruction and despair. Hitting rock bottom was a wake-up call that led her to reclaim her life and embrace sobriety. Join us as she opens up about her struggles, the turning point that changed everything, and how she’s now using her story to inspire others on their own paths to recovery and healing. This is a story of resilience, hope, and the power of transformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the harrowing story of one fateful night that altered the course of Jerry’s life forever. A violent confrontation on the streets spiraled out of control, leaving him facing the possibility of life behind bars. From the adrenaline-fueled chaos of that night to the stark reality of prison walls, Jerry’s journey is a powerful testament to the consequences of a single moment and the struggle for redemption that followed. This episode delves into the raw and unfiltered truth of his experience, exploring the choices that led him to that life-altering fight and the impact it continues to have on him today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this gripping episode of Rise Above, Matt shares his firsthand experience of living a violent and chaotic biker lifestyle. From surviving gunshot wounds to losing close friends, Matt's journey is one of both brutality and resilience. He opens up about his battle with alcohol addiction, which was fueled by the life he once led, and the toll it took on his family. Now sober, Matt is determined to make amends and rebuild his life, focusing on the family he neglected for so long. Tune in as Matt reveals his path to redemption and the hard lessons he learned along the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gabriel-Kane Day-Lewis, son of the iconic actor Daniel Day-Lewis, shares his deeply personal journey through addiction and his path to finding sobriety. On this episode of 'Rise Above,' Gabriel-Kane opens up about the struggles he faced, the turning points that helped him recover, and his mission to inspire and support others in overcoming addiction. This raw and candid conversation sheds light on the power of resilience, hope, and recovery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charlie Hartman grew up in a small farm town, but his life took unexpected turns that led him down a path of crime and deception. From small scams to orchestrating a daring $250,000 con, Charlie's story is one of battling against all odds. In this episode of Rise Above, we explore how Charlie faced the darkest chapters of his life—navigating the treacherous waters of drug and check scams, enduring the brutal realities of prison, and struggling to break free from Florida’s relentless probation system. Through every challenge, Charlie’s determination and resilience shone through, guiding him towards a second chance at life. Discover how he transformed from a man defined by his past mistakes into someone who shares his journey of redemption and inspires others to rise above their circumstances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this compelling episode of Rise Above, Richard, a former drug lord, opens up about the psychological and emotional journey behind his billion-dollar empire built on smuggling drugs for the mob. Growing up with a lack of parental guidance and facing early childhood challenges, Richard found himself making decisions that led him deep into the world of crime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rise Above with Kevin Lanning" is a podcast that focuses on mental health, addiction recovery, and personal transformation. Each episode features compelling stories of resilience, highlighting individuals who have faced significant life challenges and found ways to overcome them. Kevin, who is long-term sober himself, brings his own insights and compassion to the conversations, aiming to provide hope and support to listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this gripping episode of Rise Above, we dive deep into the harrowing true story of Oscar, a former member of the Colombian cartel who faced unimaginable challenges after being caught smuggling drugs. Oscar takes us inside the walls of Ecuador's most dangerous prisons, where survival is far from guaranteed. For seven long years, he battled not just the brutal conditions of incarceration but also the pervasive corruption, gang violence, and deadly riots that plague these institutions. Oscar's story is one of resilience, courage, and the relentless will to survive in a world where every day could be your last. From navigating life as a cartel mule to facing down the horrors of maximum-security confinement, Oscar reveals the shocking realities of life inside Ecuador's deadliest prisons. Tune in to hear his extraordinary tale of survival, the lessons he learned, and how he ultimately found a way to rise above the chaos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the gripping story of Bri, who was once at the center of America's largest check-kiting scam, driven by an unmanageable heroin addiction. After serving time in jail for writing fake checks, Bri has now been sober for 8 years. She shares her harrowing journey through addiction, including her time being trafficked in Florida rehabs as part of the notorious "Florida shuffle." Bri’s story is one of survival, resilience, and ultimate redemption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of the Rise Above Podcast with Kevin Lanning, we explore Robert’s incredible journey from the depths of addiction to a life of sobriety and service. After falling into the grips of drug addiction, Robert committed an armed robbery that led to a 10-year prison sentence. Inside the prison walls, Robert had to navigate the harsh realities of survival, including seeking protection by affiliating with the Latin Kings. Now, 12 years sober, Robert opens up about the lessons he learned behind bars, the strength it took to break free from his past, and how he rebuilt his life to become an active member of the sobriety community. This raw and inspiring conversation is a testament to the power of resilience and the possibility of redemption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jamie's life took a dramatic turn after being sentenced to 1.5 years in prison for 5 DUI's within just 45 days. Jamie's journey from the lowest point of her life to becoming a therapist with a decade of sobriety is nothing short of inspirational. She opens up about the struggles she faced, the pivotal moments that led to her recovery, and the incredible resilience that fueled her transformation. Join us for an honest and powerful conversation about redemption, recovery, and the human spirit's capacity for change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of 'Rise Above,' host Kevin Lanning sits down with Jon, a recovering addict who was once federally charged with trafficking OxyContin. Jon shares his incredible story of getting sober 5.5 years ago and the heartbreaking losses he endured along the way. Despite losing two friends to drugs and his brother to suicide, Jon has remained steadfast in his sobriety. He is now the author of "Life On Life's Terms," where he details his journey through addiction and recovery. Don't miss this inspiring tale of resilience, determination, and hope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this gripping interview, Nicole shares her incredible journey of survival and resilience. Seven years sober, Nicole recounts the harrowing night she became the lone survivor of a fatal car accident that claimed the lives of her boyfriend and best friend. Left with devastating injuries, she was prescribed OxyContin, leading to a horrifying battle with addiction. Discover how Nicole faced unimaginable darkness and did the unthinkable to overcome her addiction and rebuild her life. This is a story of heartbreak, hope, and ultimate triumph you won't want to miss. Tune in to hear Nicole's powerful testimony of strength and recovery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this insightful episode of Rise Above with Kevin Lanning, we are joined by Rachel, a primary therapist at a leading substance abuse and mental health facility. Rachel dives deep into the profound impact of childhood trauma triggers and its direct correlation to substance abuse. She explains the powerful therapeutic techniques of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), highlighting how these therapies help patients overcome trauma. Rachel shares compelling stories of recovery, detailing what successful cases look like for those who have undergone EMDR and ART therapy. Whether you're seeking to understand more about mental health treatment options or looking for hope and inspiration in the journey of trauma recovery, this episode is packed with valuable insights and information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Corey, a remarkable sober entrepreneur who is celebrating nearly 10 years of sobriety. Her journey is nothing short of extraordinary, marked by overcoming significant challenges including totaling three cars, receiving two DWIs, and experiencing a profound moment of clarity at 22. Corey has since turned her life around and is now the proud owner of Coco Market in South Florida. Coco Market is more than just a business—it's a vibrant community hub where like-minded individuals and local small businesses come together. Whether it's yoga classes, skill-building workshops, live music, or painting sessions, Coco Market offers a unique space for personal growth and connection. Join us as Corey shares her powerful story of resilience, transformation, and the importance of community in the path to recovery and success. Don't miss this episode filled with hope, inspiration, and practical insights for anyone looking to rise above their circumstances and create a better future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Episode 19 of the Rise Above Podcast, your go-to source for everything related to mental health. In this insightful episode, we are joined by Ali, who shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with OCD and anxiety at a young age. Ali delves into the intricate relationship between these two conditions and offers valuable insights on managing them. We also explore the complexities of dating in 2024, with Ali providing crucial advice on recognizing and dealing with red flags like love bombing and gaslighting. Whether you're navigating your own mental health journey or looking for guidance in the modern dating world, this episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt stories. Don't miss out on this powerful conversation that sheds light on important mental health topics and offers hope and support to anyone facing similar challenges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt interview with PFL Light Heavyweight Champion Impa Kasanganay. In this exclusive conversation, Impa opens up about his incredible journey from his parents' migration from Kongo to his rise in the world of professional fighting. Discover how this remarkable athlete overcame immense challenges, including sleeping in his car outside the gym while training, and how his dedication and perseverance led him to the top. Despite his success, Impa remains one of the most humble individuals, always finding ways to help others and give back to the community. Impa's story is a true testament to rising above adversity and achieving greatness against all odds. Don't miss this motivational and moving interview that showcases the heart and spirit of a champion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us on "Rise Above with Kevin Lanning" as we explore the inspiring story of Joe, an LCSW from South Florida. Growing up in Pittsburgh, Joe's childhood was filled with overwhelming anxiety, leading him to seek comfort in substances. After battling addiction, he was forced to seek professional help, leading to his path of recovery. Joe shares his journey from addiction to becoming a licensed therapist. Discover how he transformed his life and now helps others heal. Don't miss this episode filled with hope, resilience, and powerful insights into mental health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of "Rise Above with Kevin Lanning," we welcome Shannon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from Florida who specializes in addiction and substance abuse. Shannon shares her professional insights on mental health, drawing from her extensive experience in the field. But this episode goes beyond the professional realm. Shannon opens up about her personal journey, revealing the tragic story of her mother's murder in London in 2016, an event that made international headlines. The perpetrator, experiencing a schizophrenic episode, attacked five people, casting a shadow over Shannon's life and career in mental health. Join us as we explore the intersections of personal trauma and professional resilience, and learn how Shannon continues to rise above adversity to help others heal. Don't miss this poignant and inspiring conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

lan Bick joins the show to tell his epic story of going from teenage party promoter to nightclub owner, to running a million dollar ponzi scheme at the age of 18 and finally at 21, getting arrested by the FBl and sent to federal prison for fraud. He now runs the hit podcast "Locked In With lan Bick." Join us as Ian shares his incredible story of downfall and redemption, the lessons he learned behind bars, and how he's using his platform to inspire and educate others. This is a story of second chances, resilience, and the power of transformation. Don't miss this compelling episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Cat, a remarkable individual who has triumphed over adversity and emerged stronger than ever. Cat, a Florida native, shares her journey of overcoming alcohol addiction, standing tall as a 10-year sober warrior. But her story doesn't end there. Cat is a survivor of physical abuse from her past relationship, a testament to her resilience and inner strength. Now, Cat channels her experiences into helping others as part of a vibrant recovery community. Through her profession, she extends a compassionate hand to those navigating the early stages of sobriety, offering support, guidance, and hope. But Cat's story isn't solely defined by her challenges; she's also fueled by her passions. With a deep love for surfing and a strong spiritual connection, Cat embodies the spirit of perseverance and positivity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we delve into the awe-inspiring journey of Kayla, a professional MMA fighter whose story transcends the boundaries of the octagon. From her earliest days as a boxer to her current standing as a formidable force in the world of mixed martial arts, Kayla's resilience and unwavering determination serve as a beacon of hope for all those facing adversity. We begin by exploring Kayla's humble beginnings, where she discovered her passion for combat sports. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including financial struggles and societal skepticism, Kayla refused to be deterred from pursuing her dreams. Through sheer grit and perseverance, she honed her skills in the ring, each victory serving as a testament to her unyielding spirit. However, Kayla's journey has been far from easy. Battling mental health challenges along the way, she faced moments of doubt and uncertainty. Yet, it was precisely these hardships that fueled her determination to succeed. With the support of her loved ones and a steadfast belief in herself, Kayla emerged stronger than ever, ready to conquer whatever obstacles lay in her path. As we witness Kayla's triumphant ascent, we gain insight into the mindset of a true champion. Her relentless work ethic and unwavering focus serve as an inspiration to all those striving to overcome their own struggles. Through her story, we are reminded that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible. Join us as we Rise Above with Kayla, a testament to the power of the human spirit and the limitless potential that resides within us all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A New York native, John has journeyed through 10 years of sobriety after battling addiction, facing run-ins with the law, and even surviving a life-changing coma. His story of resilience and transformation is nothing short of remarkable. Now, John uses his experiences to inspire others. Let's Rise above with John! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In episode 10, we're joined by Amy, an Ohio native celebrating 16 years of sobriety. Her journey through addiction, jail, and institutions was challenging, but Amy's resilience prevailed. Now, she's a beacon of hope as a drug and alcohol counselor. Let's Rise above with Amy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us in Episode 8 as we delve into the inspiring journey of UFC fighter Jared 'Flash' Gordon. From battling the throes of addiction and homelessness to triumphing in the UFC octagon, his story is one of resilience and redemption. Tune in as we explore his chilling yet empowering path from darkness to the spotlight of Madison Square Garden. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In episode 7 of Rise Above, we're joined by Heath, a resilient Nuclear Submarine Navy veteran who overcame the tragic loss of his father at a young age. Kayla Harrison and Kevin Lanning will explore Heath's journey of resilience and how he found hope in adversity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 6 we are joined by Valerie, a resilient individual, who overcame a challenging Xanax addiction and transitioned her life, showcasing her inner strength and determination. Prior to her transformation, she had a diverse past, having once worked at a gentleman's club. Despite her past struggles, Valerie has emerged as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that overcoming obstacles is possible with perseverance and courage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 5, meet Harry, celebrating a decade of sobriety through his deep connection with God. From addiction's grip to successful business owner, Harry's inspiring journey showcases the transformative power of faith and the commitment to rise above. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 4, we are joined by Bella, a former Division 1 softball standout and top recruit out of high school. Despite overcoming paralysis from a traumatic neck break and battling painkiller addiction, Bella found strength through a spiritual connection within herself and meditation. Let's delve into Bella's remarkable story of resilience and triumph, a testament to the indomitable spirit within, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Embark on the empowering journey of Episode 3 on 'Rise Above,' where the spotlight is on Jose, a courageous father overcoming childhood trauma and celebrating three years of sobriety. Guided by Kayla Harrison and Kevin Lanning, this episode delves into Jose's inspiring narrative of resilience, fatherhood, and triumph over adversity. Join the conversation as we explore the intricate layers of Jose's journey, witnessing the strength that emerges from his struggles. In this compelling episode, 'Rise Above' invites you to be a part of the transformative stories that inspire and uplift. Let's rise above together! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into the second episode of Rise Above, featuring your hosts Kayla Harrison and Kevin Lanning. Today, we're honored to share the remarkable journey of resilience with our guest, Josh. A Navy veteran and single father, Josh's story is a testament to unwavering determination and strength. Serving on a nuclear submarine, he faced near-death experiences in the line of duty and emerged stronger, showcasing the power of courage in the face of adversity. In this captivating conversation, we dive into Josh's extraordinary life, exploring the challenges of parenthood, the complexities of overcoming near-death experiences on a nuclear submarine, and the profound moments of finding hope in the darkest times. With co-host Kayla Harrison, we unravel Josh's path through the abyss, showcasing his determination to rise above adversity without faltering. Join us as we navigate Josh's inspiring journey, discussing the complexities of being a single father and the unique challenges faced as a Navy veteran on a nuclear submarine. We explore the depths of Josh's resilience, shedding light on his remarkable ability to find strength in the face of life-altering situations. This episode is a beacon of hope, offering invaluable insights into the power of determination, courage, and the unwavering spirit to rise above life's hurdles. Through Josh's authentic storytelling, discover inspiration to overcome personal challenges and find hope in the most unexpected places. Join us on this riveting episode that assures you, no matter the circumstances, it's okay not to be okay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into the first episode of Rise Above, hosted by Kayla Harrison and Kevin Lanning. We’re privileged to explore a truly inspiring story of perseverance with our guest Alec. Despite his confrontations with adversity and addiction, he stands as a strong testament to the power of resilience and determination. Now sober for five fruitful years, and a proprietor of three successful endeavors, Alec shares his awe-inspiring journey and sends a powerful message that happiness lies within us. Alec explores his history with addiction in depth, sharing his experience of alienation and struggle. He discusses his intimidating journey from falling into a dangerous lifestyle, losing his family and his home in Manhattan to achieving his stunning transformation. His family, offering him the hard choice between leaving their home or beginning treatment, catalyzed his impressive journey to recovery. Experience this captivating conversation as we navigate Alec’s extraordinary journey of overcoming adversity, capitalizing on opportunities, and achieving stunning success. We delve into Alec's road to rehab, his battles with social media materialism, and his realization of the importance of family. We explore the transition from an affluent lifestyle to the disciplined reality of rehab, how he tackled his manipulative patterns, and learned to accept his flaws. Finally, join us as we traverse his path to self-discovery, overcoming fear, and manning up to live a life of sobriety. This episode offers invaluable insights into the journey of self-improvement, success, happiness, and the struggle to rise above addiction. Through heartfelt stories of authenticity, resilience, nailing the balance between work and pleasure, and exploring unconventional approaches, find inspiration and motivation to overcome personal challenges and seek help. This riveting episode is a beacon of hope, assuring you that it's completely okay, not to be okay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices