Breaking Through Boundaries: The Power of Therapeutic Connection with Kimia Anderson and "B" (Part 2)

On today’s episode of Alterd Life we’re going to be talking about recovery.

More specifically, measuring recovery.

How do you measure the trajectory of someone’s life?  

Let’s dive and see what we can learn from the unlikely story of today’s guest David Whitesock.

Today, David is the CEO and Founder of Commonly Well, according to their website, they Illuminate the truthabout addiction through recovery intelligence.

Untreated depression and social anxiety lead David to an alcohol addiction starting at the age of 17.

In college, his undergrad professor Sandy McEwen, a public defender, insisted that David join the mock trial team, despite having a criminal record and only having been sober for the last 9 months.

Quickly discovering his natural gift for law, Sandy takes David under her wing. She shares the point blank feedback that he should become a lawyer despite his stained past.

Sitting in the very courtroom where he had been convicted, this same professor Sandy entered the witness stand

and the story she tells the judge has the potential to change David’s life forever…

From a place of great uncertainty and darkness, David experienced an important turning point which shaped the work he does today.

Does our dark past prevent us from living a bright future?

If we could measure that brighter future with technology, could we improve it? Optimize it? Help more people experience it?

And if we could do that, could we then leverage AI to make it more accessible, and affordable, bridging the lines of social economic status and access to great care…

Find out all these things and more on today’s episode of Alter'd Life

More about David Whitesock:

David is committed to developing and executing methods that drive meaningful solutions in addiction treatment and recovery. With a unique blend of technology, data analytics, and human-centered design, and through his work helps addiction treatment organizations turn data into actionable insights for measurable success.

David is the inventor of the Recovery Capital Index® (RCI), a validated and peer-reviewed instrument that quantifies addiction well-being. Published in the May 2018 edition of the South Dakota Medical Journal, the RCI has been a pivotal tool in reshaping the addiction treatment landscape by emphasizing metrics that matter.

David believes that understanding complex connections is key to solving big problems. In our quest to solve addiction, we're helping individuals connect to their purpose and contributing to the greater good.

Connect with David:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwhitesock/

Learn more about Commonly Well:

https://commonlywell.com/

Drugs don't know your social status, nationality or the color of your skin -- they don't discriminate.  

Janice Hardman was living a life she later recalls that she wouldn’t wish on her worst enemy. 

At 52, after burning every bridge in her life, Janice was desperate to once and for all get clean and stay clean. 

And on this cold Chicago day all those years ago, the warmest place to be was the Greyhound bus station.  

And that's exactly where Janice found herself, willing to give life one more chance. 

She’d been in and out of 7 different treatment centers.   

And it was there that David Beatty showed up in his green military style jacket, ready to give Janice a ride to the next treatment home.  

But it wasn’t happily every after… you see, David wouldn’t let her husband into the truck because he was clearly still under the influence. 

And with the fate of the rest of her life hanging on this moment, Janice had to make a choice. 

This stranger represented the help she needed. 

But to trust him meant to leave behind her husband whom she loved. 

But when there seems to be no hope left where do you turn? 

Can this power of human connection transform an otherwise impossible situation, into a renewed life and sense of purpose? 

Let’s find out on today’s episode of Alter Life… 

Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.alterdlifepodcast.com/

On this special episode of the Alter'd Life Podcast, we tackle the topic of higher education head on as your host, Michael Castanon interviews one of the Founders of the newly formed Hildegard College, Dr. Matthew Smith, and one of Hildegard’s first students, Nicole Parker -

Hildegard’s promise is that they educate young people to be intelligent, wise, and entrepreneurial.  

Is this a tall order for Gen Z - a generation that grew up having to develop in a world of counterfeit connection?

Can a small liberal arts college really break through these barriers?

And how does a new generation embrace higher education when large public figures like Elon Musk preach an antithetical message to the entire college system today?

Let’s dive right in and find out on today’s episode of Alter'd Life...

Learn more about Dr. Smith, Nicole and Hildegard at https://hildegard.college

In this episode of the Alter’d Life Podcast, Michael Castanon engages in a deep conversation with licensed therapist Kamiya Anderson and her client, B. The episode delves into the importance of clear boundaries in therapy, the strategic use of self-disclosure by therapists, and the journey of healing from trauma and addiction. It highlights the significance of fostering a strong therapeutic alliance while maintaining essential boundaries to facilitate lasting positive change.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Boundaries for Liberation: Establishing and maintaining boundaries in therapy can facilitate freedom and healing for the patient.
• Strategic Self-Disclosure: Therapists can strategically share personal experiences to foster connection and instill hope in patients, but it should always serve the patient's needs, not the therapist's.
• Consistency in Healing: Overcoming trauma and addiction requires consistent effort and a solutions-oriented mindset every day, rather than a fleeting attempt to leave the past behind.

HIGHLIGHT QUOTES

• "Self-disclosure is not about my troubles; it's about instilling hope and showcasing the possibility of a brighter future."
• "Every day, I'm working on what I worked on in my first 30 days of recovery."
• "Accepting and forgiving myself was the hardest part of my healing journey."

Find out more about Kimia Anderson:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimia-anderson-13b483b0

Connect with Michael and Alter Health Group:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-castanon-3a51748/
Website: https://alterhealthgroup.com/

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of the Alter’d Life Podcast, Michael Castanon delves into a compelling conversation between therapist Camilla Anderson and her client, B, exploring the transformative power of trust and authenticity in their therapeutic relationship. Through their genuine connection, they navigate addiction, trauma, and the profound impact of feeling truly cared for in the healing process.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The Importance of Trust: Establishing and maintaining trust is foundational in any relationship, particularly in therapy. It requires commitment and genuine care to foster and preserve trust.
• Authentic Communication: Being authentic and real allows for deeper connections and enables individuals to explore profound healing spaces within themselves.

HIGHLIGHT QUOTES

• "People don't really care what you know until they first know that you care."
• "Our personalities just meshed together. It was very easy to talk to her, feel like I can tell her anything without being judged."
• "Being authentic and real will allow you to go deeper and experience a more powerful connection with the other person."

Find out more about Kimia Anderson:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimia-anderson-13b483b0

Connect with Michael and Alter Health Group:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-castanon-3a51748/
Website: https://alterhealthgroup.com/

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of the Alter’d Life Podcast, Michael Castanon as he delves into a captivating conversation between Dave Gilbert, a technology evangelist and executive coach, and his mentee, Christopher Steiner, a real estate executive. The conversation revolves around the profound impact of human connection and mentorship, emphasizing the transformative power of fostering trusted relationships. As Dave passes on his knowledge and guidance to Chris, the episode explores the ripple effect of mentorship, demonstrating how the exchange of wisdom can influence others and create a legacy of support and growth.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Passing It On: Embrace the opportunity to share the knowledge and experiences gained from mentors with a small group. Starting small and consistently nurturing these relationships is akin to a marathon, fostering lasting connections and growth.
• Open Communication: In healthy relationships, communicating doubts or discomfort is essential. Be receptive to discussions and quick to listen, fostering an environment of openness and understanding.
• Human Connection: Acknowledge the innate human need for connection. Embrace the journey of mentorship and supportive relationships, recognizing the invaluable impact they have on personal and professional growth.

HIGHLIGHT QUOTES

• "Great leaders don't develop followers; they develop other leaders."
• "We're hardwired for this type of connection, and it's always fruitful to stay the course in healthy relationships."
• "It's like brushing my teeth almost; there's a week that I'll miss, but I find myself in day 10 when we haven't talked, and my mental teeth feel chalky."

Find out more about Christopher and Dave:

Christopher’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbsteiner/\
Dave’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simplebigcheese/

Connect with Michael and Alter Health Group:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-castanon-3a51748/
Website: https://alterhealthgroup.com/

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of the Alter’d Life Podcast, in a heartfelt conversation with technology evangelist and executive coach, Dave Gilbert, alongside his mentee, Christopher Steiner, Vice President of Acquisitions for 29th Street Capital, they explore the transformational journey of mentorship, focusing on the dynamics of trust, vulnerability, and empathy. Delve into the pivotal shifts in perspective and personal growth that emerge when mentorship transcends mere advice and prioritizes understanding the whole individual.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Authentic Connections: Opening up to a mentor's guidance involves vulnerability and embracing new perspectives, fostering trust and openness.
• Holistic Growth: Mentorship extends beyond career advice, encompassing life's diverse facets—spirituality, relationships, well-being, and career—balancing each as integral parts of a fulfilling life.
• Empathy Over Advice: The importance of empathetic listening before doling out advice, nurturing trust, and fostering a safe, confidential space for mentees to share openly.

HIGHLIGHT QUOTES

• "It's a balance, not a race."
• "Broadening the lens in life and understanding that it's a balance, not a race."
• "Empathy over advice—a more empathetic approach instead of leading into the advice part of the relationship."
• "Listen, listen, and listen again before offering advice."

Find out more about Christopher and Dave:

Christopher’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbsteiner/
Dave’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simplebigcheese/

Connect with Michael and Alter Health Group:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-castanon-3a51748/
Website: https://alterhealthgroup.com/

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of the Alter’d Life Podcast, host Michael Castanon engages in a heartfelt conversation with Cole Dyar, the Executive Director of Mental Health Network at Northbound Treatment Services, and Samantha Colicchio, Creative Director at SouthSwell Digital Marketing. They explore the intricacies of dealing with mental health challenges within relationships, shedding light on Relationship OCD (ROCD) and the transformative power it can have within a partnership. Both Cole and Samantha share their personal experiences, revealing how understanding, compassion, and growth have become pivotal in their journey of turning pain into resilience.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Compassionate Support: Cole advises approaching loved ones with compassion rather than assumption, offering various forms of support beyond words.
• Finding Blessings in Pain: Samantha discovers profound growth within her relationship, recognizing her pain as a catalyst for personal development and connection.
• Empowerment through Shared Struggles: Both Cole and Samantha embrace their vulnerabilities, turning pain into strength, inspiring hope and support for others facing similar challenges.
• Strategic Alliance in Relationships: The couple emphasizes the significance of growth, trust, and service in fostering a strong, mutually supportive partnership.

HIGHLIGHT QUOTES

• Cole Dyar: "I watched a woman take her pain and turn it into power."
• Samantha Colicchio: "Being in a partnership is about growth. I feel seen and held in the part of myself that I had always viewed as the most unpleasant."
• Michael Castanon: "There's hope in sharing your struggles. You're not alone."

Find out more about Cole and Samantha:
Cole’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdyarmslaadc/
Samantha’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-colicchio/

Connect with Michael and Alter Health Group:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-castanon-3a51748/
Website: https://alterhealthgroup.com/

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of the Alter’d Life Podcast, Michael Castanon delves into the profound journey of mental health and the power of diagnosis. Join him in a candid conversation with Samantha Colicchio, who recently opened up about her diagnosis of Relationship OCD (ROCD) in an article for the Huffington Post, and her fiancé, Cole Dyar, a mental health professional. They explore the lesser-known aspects of ROCD, its impacts, and the importance of seeking professional help. Discover how getting clarity through a diagnosis can be a game changer for your mental health and relationships.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Samantha's journey with Relationship OCD (ROCD) and the life-altering impact of her diagnosis.
• The prevalence of ROCD, despite not being in the DSM, with hundreds of thousands diagnosed each year.
• Cole's insights into recognizing ROCD in Samantha and the complexities of dealing with a partner's mental health.
• The relief that comes from identifying and naming a mental health condition, allowing for treatment and growth.
• The significance of seeking professional help to obtain a diagnosis and create an action plan for treatment.

HIGHLIGHT QUOTES

• "Just the realization that I had this changed my life." - Samantha Colicchio
• "Once you know what it is, you're relieved. You're like, okay, this is this, I can treat this." - Cole Dyar

Find out more about Cole and Samantha:
Cole’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdyarmslaadc/
Samantha’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-colicchio/

Connect with Michael and Alter Health Group:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-castanon-3a51748/
Website: https://alterhealthgroup.com/

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of the Alter’d Life Podcast, Michael Castanon engages in a heartwarming conversation with Bruce Finucan. The episode revolves around the theme of turning adversity into opportunity, with Bruce's personal journey serving as a backdrop.

Despite being a natural introvert, Bruce found himself reaching out to other cancer patients during his own treatment. He shares a powerful moment when he connected with a couple facing throat cancer, highlighting the incredible impact of these encounters.

The episode delves into Bruce's transition from pain to purpose, where he now ministers to and supports other cancer patients, leading Bible studies and offering companionship. The conversation emphasizes the importance of taking action, practicing gratitude, and overcoming fear to find purpose in life's challenges.

HIGHLIGHT QUOTES

• The Unexplained Joy - Bruce Finucan: "There is a joy that's unexplained when you do things like this. It is an unexplained joy, but it is a powerful joy that you know is coming from the Lord." 
• Turning Pain into Purpose - Michael Castanon: "We don't want people to get stuck in their pain or their difficulty, their hopelessness. We want to take them to power, to hopefulness, to purpose."
• Strength from Above - Bruce Finucan: "God gives you this strength. And if you accept it and take it, it just turns out to be so much more of a blessing."
• From Pain to Purpose - Michael Castanon: "We don't want people to get stuck in their pain or their difficulty, their hopelessness. We want to take them to power, to hopefulness, to purpose."
• The Impact of Connection - Bruce Finucan: "I sat back down. No coincidence. No coincidence. No coincidence. All the, what the Lord puts in your life. God showed up. It's incredible. And we talked for close to probably two hours."

Connect with Michael and Alter Health Group:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-castanon-3a51748/
Website: https://alterhealthgroup.com/

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!