• Welcome to How To Cope With The Dope
    Jan 22 2024

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    This brief introduction is just a quick hello and birds eye view of what this podcast is all about.

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    4 mins
  • Understanding Step One
    Jan 29 2024

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    Today we are going to take a look at step one of the 12 steps of AA and Alanon; yes, they are the same for both programs. Using insight from the "Paths to Recovery" book and personal experience I will discuss step one in detail. We explore some thought provoking questions which will help get us thinking about our habits and behaviors. Perhaps you will be able to relate to some of my experiences. I have linked some questions for you to work through on your own. I truly hope that you will have a few a-ha moments.

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    29 mins
  • Interview with Jackie B.
    Feb 5 2024

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    Today is my first interview episode with Jackie, a friend I met in the Alanon program. Jackie shares how her husbands alcoholism became a path to self awareness and growth.
    Jackie also shares some daily habits, books and resources that have helped her to flourish and grow throughout her journey.

    The Books Mentioned Today:
    The 3 daily readers are Alanon books by Alanon Family Group Head Inc.
    One Day At a Time
    Courage to Change
    Hope For Today

    Under the Influence
    by James Milam Ph.D. and Katherine Ketcham


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    47 mins
  • Rope A Dope
    Feb 12 2024

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    Jumping into the proverbial boxing ring with someone under the influence is an act of futility. Listen to this quick tip episode and see what a better alternative may be.


    If you are a victim of domestic violence please get help.
    *the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233



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    10 mins
  • Boundaries
    Feb 19 2024

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    In this episode I will discuss boundaries, why we need them and why we may struggle creating them. You may finish this episode feeling inspired to reflect on your boundaries and maybe even coming up with some new ones moving forward.

    Questions to think about:
    *Who do I struggle to set boundaries with ?
    *What am I afraid will happen if I set boundaries with this person?
    *How would I feel if I established healthy boundaries with this person?
    *How do I think the other person will react to these boundaries?
    *An affirmation that gives me courage.

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    17 mins
  • Step 2
    Feb 26 2024

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    Today we will be diving into step 2 of the 12 steps. Often the first steps can be the most difficult to accept and come to terms with. We will break down this step and look at some questions that may help you digest this step.

    Paths to Recovery -Al-Anon's Steps, Traditions and Concepts is the book that I refrenced.
    Questions to reflect on:
    *What is my concept of a Higher Power at this time?
    *What would it take for my concept of my Higher Power to change?
    *Have past experiences affected my concept of a Higher Power?and if so, How?
    *What do I hope to gain from accepting the concept of a Power greater than myself?
    *Do I sense spiritual guidance in life?How?
    *What does let go and let God mean to me?
    *What does faith mean to me?
    *With whom and in what circumstances and I comfortable discussing my spiritual experiences?
    *What might I gain from believing I could be supported and loved by a Power greater than myself?
    *What does sanity mean to me?
    *How has the addict situation affected my sanity?
    *Have I allowed the addict situation to become my Higher Power?How?
    *How has my thinking become distorted trying to handle the addicts behavior?
    *When have I done the same thing over and over and expected different experiences?


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    18 mins
  • Interview with Nick
    Mar 4 2024

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    In this interview episode Nick shares how his life transformed when he regained his values and self respect. Little hinges often swing big doors and Nick tells how taking a pause has had wonderful results in his life. He shares stories, books and things he does in everyday life to thrive.

    Books mentioned:
    Love Must be Tough by Dr. James Dobson
    Opening Our Hearts Transforming Our Losses by al-anon family groups
    Facing Co-Dependency by Pia Melody
    One Day at A Time by al-anon family groups
    Courage to Change by al-anon family groups
    Hope for Today byal-anon family groups

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    45 mins
  • Let's talk Codependency
    Mar 11 2024

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    Codependency is a term that became popular with the AA and Alanon program back in the 1950's and 1960's. In this episode I will talk about what codependency is and what empathy is as they may seem similar but there is a big difference. I will share some hallmarks of codependency and some ways to build healthier relationships and effective self-care strategies.

    Books mentioned:
    Codependent No More by Melanie Beattie

    Attachment Styles Article:
    https://psychcentral.com/health/4-attachment-styles-in-relationships

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    28 mins