Positive Recovery MD

Turning Pain into Purpose: How M-COPE is Fighting Against Substance Use Disorder and Overdose Through Education, Awareness, Prevention, and Remembrance

In this conversation, host Julie DeNofa sits down with Kathy Posey, Paige Butler, and Kim Robbins, three inspiring women serving on the Montgomery County Overdose Prevention Endeavor Board (M-COPE) Kathy and Kim, Co-Founders of M-COPE, share their personal stories of losing a child to addiction and how, after four moms met through the GRASP grief group ( Grief Recovery After Substance Passing) after losing their children to accidental overdose, they realized the need for spreading awareness around the disease of addiction.  Paige also shares her journey through a different perspective of loving a child who is now in recovery from substance use disorder. With their stories, Kathy, Paige, and Kim are now turning their pain into purpose in helping other families heal.  The mission at M-COPE is to collaborate with individuals, communities, schools, and organizations to raise awareness about substance use disorder and the alarming rise in overdose and drug-related deaths in Montgomery County and surrounding areas. Their efforts are grounded in four key pillars: education, awareness, prevention, and remembrance.   Through this approach, they shine a light on the growing drug crisis, work to end the stigma surrounding substance use, and advocate for those currently in need of support as well as for those who can no longer speak for themselves.  Topics Discussed: Advice for parents and families learning to navigate grief after overdose loss The importance of remembering loved ones beyond their addiction Recognizing that everyone grieves differently and giving others more grace Understanding emotional triggers and grief waves after loss Why volunteer-driven organizations play a critical role in community recovery How overdose awareness and prevention efforts are helping communities — CHAPTERS:  00:00 Purpose From Pain - Introduction to MCOPE 03:33 Meet Kathy Posey, Kim Robbins, and Paige Bulter 08:04 What M-Cope is and the Four Pillars: Awareness, Prevention, Education, and Rememberance 11:06 Volunteering, Community Partners, and Supporting Newly Bereaved 15:39 Grief Advice For Families: Connection, Caregiving, Healing, and Support  23:10 Recognizing Grief Waves and Triggers and Finding Joy Again 28:47 Honoring Loved Ones Who Lost Their Lives to Addiction 30:39 The Hope of Recovery  33:52 M-COPE Outreach through Blessing Bags, Narcan Outreach, Scholarships And Community Impact 39:11 Recovery Community Resources — Connect with M-Cope online:  Website: https://mcope.org/  Scholarship: https://mcope.org/scholarship/  Volunteer Opportunities: https://mcope.org/support/#volunteer  Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mocope/?ref=share&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=SDyLMs2NFChqDsne&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2Fg%2F1DCtwm4WSp%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr — Connect with PRC on Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters  FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters  TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters  YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter    About Positive Recovery Centers: Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.  Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame.  If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!  Call: 877-476-2743 Website: https://positiverecovery.com  Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/  

Understanding Emotional Sobriety and the Science of Healing with Dr. Andrew Krieger

Dr. Andrew Krieger, DSW, MBA, LCSW-S, LCDC, is a private practice psychotherapist with extensive experience in direct practice social work, clinical program design and development, addiction treatment, and group psychotherapy. He received his Doctor of Social Work from the University of Southern California and holds both a Master of Clinical Social Work and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston. Over the past 20 years, Dr. Krieger has worked with individuals and families as a private practice and group psychotherapist, specializing in addictive disorders, family therapy, group psychotherapy, and process addictions. He's also held clinical positions at some of the leading addiction treatment programs in Texas.  As Chief Executive Officer of Contemporary Medicine Associates (CMA) — the primary practice of Dr. Bo Allaire and Dr. Andrew Krieger — he leads a team specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders. CMA also provides third-party medical services for psychiatric and addiction treatment facilities, as well as clinical and business consulting services for mental health providers.  Originally founded over 20 years ago by Dr. Eugene Degner, one of the first board-certified addiction medicine doctors in Texas and a pioneer in the medical treatment of alcohol and drug addiction, CMA continues to honor Dr. Degner's legacy through compassionate, expert care.  Today, their doctors, nurses, and mental health professionals serve patients and families at every stage of addiction and recovery — providing a caring, non-judgmental environment where healing can truly begin. They also offer comprehensive support for individuals with mental health conditions such as depression, trauma, and anxiety. In this conversation, Dr. Jason Powers and Dr. Andrew Krieger discuss the different phases of recovery, the science behind post-acute withdrawal syndrome, and the meaning of emotional sobriety. Together, they explore how long-term recovery is less about counting the years and more about integrity, emotional growth, and learning to live a life that's genuinely fulfilling. Topics Discussed: Defining Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) The difference between co-occurring disorders & substance use disorder Breaking down emotional sobriety into 3 main categories Understanding the phases of recovery and personal growth How perspective and integrity define Long-Term Sobriety, not just time Finding fulfillment beyond survival in recovery — CHAPTERS:  00:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD 01:09 Meet Our Guest: Andrew Krieger 01:40 Andrew's Journey to Sobriety 03:45 Career Transition and Professional Growth 06:36 Phases of Recovery 09:57 Understanding Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome & Co-Occurring Disorders 15:48 Emotional Sobriety Explained 20:00 Why Length of Abstinence Doesn't Equate to Emotional Maturity 21:40 Personal Stories in Early Recovery 23:55 The Importance of Supportive Relationships and Accountability 27:55 Finding a Balance in Sobriety and New Experiences in Recovery  31:58 Reflections on Personal Journey and Finding Peace  — Connect with Dr. Andrew Krieger:  Website: www.cmamed.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-krieger-6864745  — Connect with PRC on Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters  FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters  TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters  YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter    About Positive Recovery Centers:  Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.  Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame. If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help! Call: 877-476-2743 Website: https://positiverecovery.com  Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

The Road to Recovery Tour: Skyler Ray's Journey Through Music and Sobriety

There's something about music that cuts deeper than words alone. A single lyric, a familiar melody, or even the rhythm of a beat can stir memories we thought were long forgotten and awaken parts of ourselves we may have buried. It reminds us of who we were before the chaos, before the pain, before substances clouded our vision.  Pursuing our favorite hobbies before substance use can be a lifeline back to our core, a way of reclaiming the truest version of ourselves. Listen in as our guest this week shares how he turned his lifelong passion into purpose and found a way back home to himself. Skyler Ray was born on November 28, 1990, in San Jose, California. He grew up in foster homes and spent multiple years homeless—going from being locked up to sleeping on the sidewalks of downtown Portland. His music is deeply rooted in his life experiences, including addiction, incarceration, and homelessness. He is a firm believer in spreading hope and giving back to the community he once helped destroy. Since being released from prison on November 30, 2018, Skyler has refocused on his music and is determined to share his message with the world. He continues to live in Portland, Oregon, and remains clean and sober. In this conversation, Jamie Demeris and Skyler Ray discuss what it really takes to rebuild a life after addiction. Together, they explore the mindset shifts that turn relapse into resilience, why consistency and small steps matter more than giant leaps, and how reconnecting with your passions can anchor you in sobriety.  Skyler shares how music became both his therapy and his message, and why vulnerability and self-respect are the foundation of lasting recovery. Whether you're in recovery, supporting a loved one, or just searching for hope, this conversation will remind you that transformation is always possible. Topics Discussed: The importance of continuously working on yourself  Why relapse isn't a step back and how you can stand up stronger  Pursuing your passions and who you are at your core in sobriety Why small, consistent steps make the most impact Reconnecting with your why & remembering who you were before substances Learning to love and respect yourself — CHAPTERS:  ​​0:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD 01:10 Meet Skylar Ray: From Addiction to Recovery 02:16 Skylar's Battle with Addiction 03:56 Turning Point: Embracing Music and Sobriety 12:50 The Road to Recovery Tour 19:35 Overcoming Disbelief and Embracing Change 22:54 Climbing the Corporate Ladder 23:43 A Humbling Demotion 24:17 Prison Reflections and Personal Growth 26:22 Musical Journey and Personal Transformation 29:14 The Power of Sound and Recovery 33:23 Chasing Dreams and Overcoming Challenges 40:33 Tour Dates and Final Thoughts — Connect with Skyler Ray:  Road to Recovery Tour: https://www.officialskylerray.com/road-to-recovery-tour  Website: www.officialskylerray.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealSkylerRay  — Connect with PRC on Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters  FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters  TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters  YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg   Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter    About Positive Recovery Centers Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.  Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame. If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help! Call: 877-476-2743 Website: https://positiverecovery.com  Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/  

A Special Father's Day Reflection on What Matters Most

It's not every day you get to be a fly on the wall for a heart-to-heart between a father and his children, but that's exactly what this week's episode of Positive Recovery MD offers. In a touching and transparent Father's Day special, host Jamie Demeris invites his children, Lauren and Dean, into the studio for a rare and meaningful exchange that spans generations, emotions, and lived experiences.  As the three of them share laughs, swap stories, and revisit pivotal memories, what unfolds is a raw and beautiful reflection on the power of authenticity, the scars and strength born of addiction, and the unshakable bonds of family. Whether it's Dean sharing the lessons that shaped him or Lauren opening up about how recovery has touched her worldview, this episode is filled with moments that will tug at your heart and leave you thinking about your own relationships. If you're looking for inspiration, connection, or just a reminder of how recovery ripples through generations in the most powerful ways, this one's for you. Topics Discussed: Healing families, building bridges, and creating space for healing How emotional honesty in children reflects the generational impact of recovery The value of leaning into diversity, discomfort, and finding your people Emotional intelligence in kids: How vulnerability becomes a superpower Understanding the choice between living in regret or teachable moments --- CHAPTERS:  00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:09 A Personal Episode with Family 02:59 Meet the Kids: Lauren and Dean 04:16 Memorable Moments and Friendships 10:42 Life Lessons and Reflections 15:53 Yoga and Creating Habits 16:51 Memorable Birthdays and Funny Moments 17:33 The Question Game Begins 17:54 School Experiences and Diversity 20:06 Personal Growth and Confrontation 21:47 Reflecting on Work and Life 24:48 Deep Questions and Emotional Reflections 29:42 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude --- Connect with PRC on Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters  FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters  TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters  YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg  Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter    About Positive Recovery Centers: Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.  Our evidence-based curriculum combines the best of the past with the present, supporting our mission: Recovery is most effectively pursued when meaningful, intentional, and positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience, rather than negativity and shame. If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help!  Call: 877-476-2743 Website: https://positiverecovery.com  Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/  

Holding Hope – A Mother's Perspective on Addiction and Healing

In this special BONUS Mother's Day episode of Positive Recovery MD, host Julie DeNofa honors moms' unwavering love and resilience in navigating their children's recovery journeys. Through heartfelt stories from mothers in the Positive Recovery community, Julie shares moments of fear, courage, and transformation that come with loving someone through addiction. Moms like Millie, Sandy, Carol, Kim, and an anonymous mother offer vulnerable reflections on letting go, setting boundaries, and never losing hope. These real-life experiences highlight the shared pain of addiction and the shared healing that recovery brings to families. This episode is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, healing is ongoing, and love plays a vital role in the journey. With insights on support, honesty, and self-care, this conversation offers comfort and connection for anyone walking alongside a loved one in recovery. Topics Discussed: Understanding addiction as a family disease, not a moral failure  Setting boundaries as an extension of love with structure, not rejection Why support systems are vital for long-term healing Holding onto the grace in the process of recovery that defies logic A mother's strength is hope in the face of heartbreak Why mothers should prioritize self-care and seek their own support Staying informed, knowing the signs of addiction, and when/how to implement tools like Narcan  — CHAPTERS:  00:00 Welcome to Positive Recovery MD 00:59 Mother's Day Reflections 03:21 Millie and Colleen: A Mother's Journey 08:35 Sandy and Chris: A Tale of Resilience 11:56 Carol and Steven: Overcoming Together 19:11 Kim's Perspective: Dual Recoveries 26:02 Anonymous Mom: Holding Onto Hope 27:57 A Heartfelt Letter from an Anonymous Alumni 31:18 Tips for Moms: Supporting Children in Recovery 36:01 Final Thoughts and Resources --- Connect with PRC on Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters  FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters  TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter  LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters  YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg   Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter    About Positive Recovery Centers:   Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network.  Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame. If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help! Call: 877-476-2743 Website: https://positiverecovery.com  Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/