Battling Addiction, Finding Faith, and Embracing Recovery - Brian’s story - 21 pathways recovery minister - Episode 38 - The Addict’s Advocate

In this episode, Dusty Dean interviews Brian Teigen, a recovering heroin addict who shares his powerful journey through addiction, recovery, and finding faith. Brian discusses the struggles he faced, including the chaos of addiction, the turning point that led him to seek help, and the importance of community and service in recovery. He emphasizes the lessons learned through suffering and the significance of humility and openness in the recovery process.

 

Brian's story is one of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of faith and support. In this conversation, Brian Teigen and Dusty Dean explore the intricate relationship between recovery from addiction and spirituality. They discuss the importance of connecting recovery principles with biblical teachings, the challenges of relapse, and the significance of faith and surrender in the recovery process. The dialogue also delves into family dynamics, the role of therapy, and the necessity of communication in maintaining sobriety. They emphasize the importance of gratitude, reflection, and finding purpose beyond addiction, while acknowledging the messiness of life and the reality of addiction. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the journey of personal growth and the power of community support in recovery.

 

Takeaways

• Brian's journey into addiction began with opiates and escalated to heroin.
• He experienced a turning point when he realized he needed help for his addiction.
• The importance of honesty and transparency with loved ones in recovery.
• Finding faith played a crucial role in Brian's recovery journey.
• Community support is essential for maintaining sobriety.
• Service to others can be a powerful tool in recovery.
• Suffering can lead to personal growth and deeper understanding.
• Facing fears and doubts is necessary for overcoming addiction.
• Humility and openness are key to personal development in recovery.
• Recovery is a continuous journey that requires effort and commitment. Recovery is a journey that involves connecting with spirituality.
• Relapse is a part of the recovery process for many individuals.
• Faith and surrender are crucial components of recovery.
• Family dynamics can significantly impact an individual's recovery journey.
• Therapy and open communication are essential for healing.
• Finding purpose beyond addiction can lead to a fulfilling life.
• Gratitude plays a vital role in maintaining a positive mindset.
• Life is inherently messy, and recovery is no exception.
• Understanding relapse triggers is key to preventing setbacks.
• Addiction affects individuals from all walks of life, regardless of background.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Personal Struggles

04:04 Crisis and Turning Point: The Impact of Family Illness

13:31 The Confession: A Path to Healing

13:33 New Chapter

22:17 The Role of Service and Community in Sobriety

27:24 Creating 21 Pathways: A New Approach to Recovery

35:29 The Importance of Connection and Support in Recovery

39:09 The Struggle of Addiction and Self-Preservation

42:59 The Beauty of Recovery and Relationships

47:14 Healthy Boundaries and Self-Care

52:26 The Richness of Recovery

56:31 The Common Goal of Recovery

57:44 Understanding Pain and Suffering

58:37 The Journey of Faith and Trust

59:49 The Worthiness of Every Individual

01:00:50 The Transformative Power of Scripture

01:02:56 Discipleship and Mentorship in Recovery

01:04:47 Recognizing Growth and Change

01:05:58 The Reality of Relapse and Recovery

01:06:54 The Journey of Meekness and Surrender

01:08:49 Faith and True Surrender in Recovery

01:12:22 The Role of Family in Addiction Recovery

01:13:17 Understanding Addiction: The Three C's

01:15:21 Communication and Boundaries in Recovery

01:18:07 Finding Purpose Beyond Addiction

01:20:26 Gratitude and the Power of Perspective

01:30:13 The Messiness of Recovery

01:30:28 Understanding Relapse Triggers

01:32:11 Navigating Alcohol Use in Young Adults

01:34:06 Consequences of Substance Abuse

01:35:00 The Role of Ego in Addiction

01:36:49 Perseverance Through Challenges

01:38:43 The Importance of Accountability

01:40:26 Listening and Learning from Others

01:42:12 Surrendering to the Process

01:45:14 Building a Life in Recovery

01:47:03 The Ongoing Journey of Sobriety