Cary Harrison and Ashley Neal from Riverside Recovery Studios in Tampa, Florida, introduce Dave Closson, a military sniper-turned-life coach, speaker, and author credited with using his experiences to help others live a life of abundance. The episode explores Closson's personal story of struggling with PTSD, addiction, and recovery, highlighting how he utilized his 'inner warrior' and specialized skills from his military background to transform his life and guide others. Then, an amusing conversation with Sean Daniels, a director, advocate, and person in long-term recovery, who’s currently leading the Recovery Project at Florida Studio Theatre. Known for creating the off-Broadway play 'The White Chip,' Daniels discusses his personal journey with alcohol addiction, the role of arts and comedy in recovery, and his mission to destigmatize addiction through entertainment.
Riverside Recovery of Tampa is proud to be a trusted member of the Veterans Affairs' Community Care Network (CCN), providing exceptional services for our honored Veterans. As part of this network, we ensure direct access to top-tier healthcare, maintaining the highest standards of treatment. Our unique approach emphasizes the significance of a supportive community, fostering an environment crucial for Veterans throughout their recovery journey. From initial detox to achieving lasting sobriety, Riverside Recovery of Tampa is dedicated to the well-being of those who have served our nation. Call us at: 800-871-5440
Part. 1:
## Uniting Others Through Empowerment
Dave Closson's journey begins with a deep passion for uniting others and helping them lead abundant lives. As a motivational speaker, he guides individuals towards professional success, increased freedom, and the exhilarating feeling of starting each day with purpose. Through his work, Dave emphasizes the importance of inner strength and resilience in achieving personal growth and fulfillment.
## Overcoming Challenges and Finding Self-Discovery
Dave's path to empowerment was paved with challenges, including a traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and struggles with addiction. However, it was through a series of pivotal moments and self-reflection that he found the courage to confront his inner demons and embark on a journey of personal transformation. By delving deep into his authentic self, Dave was able to rediscover his true identity and start afresh on the path to healing.
## Harnessing Inner Warrior and Self-Awareness
Central to Dave's story is his ability to tap into his inner warrior, a reservoir of strength and resilience cultivated through his military experience. By leveraging his discipline, mission-focus, and support networks, Dave demonstrates how one can overcome adversities and emerge stronger. His emphasis on post-traumatic growth and self-awareness highlights the importance of introspection and uncovering one's unique strengths.
## Teaching Through Listening and Empathy
As a coach, Dave not only shares his story but also inspires others to discover their inner resilience and authenticity. Through active listening and empathy, he guides individuals towards understanding their core values, crafting a vision for their future, and aligning their goals with their authentic selves. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, Dave empowers others to embrace their stories and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
## Embracing Authenticity and Individuality
One of the key lessons from Dave's journey is the power of authenticity and individuality. By being true to oneself and embracing vulnerability, one can cultivate genuine connections, foster trust, and navigate through life's challenges with integrity. Dave's nuanced approach to coaching emphasizes the importance of aligning personal values with professional goals and surrounding oneself with a supportive community.
Part. 2:
### Embracing Comedy to Address Stigma
Sean Daniels is the creator of the off-Broadway play "The White Chip," which delves into the struggles of alcohol addiction, a prevalent issue affecting many Americans. With notable producers like John Larroquette and Annalee Ashford, Sean's play aims to use entertainment as a tool for change, de-stigmatizing addiction through humor and storytelling.
### Leveraging the Arts to Transform Narratives
Through his work with the Recovery Project at Florida Studio Theatre, Sean emphasizes the importance of using the arts to change societal narratives around addiction. By harnessing the power of theater and comedy, Sean aims to shift the conversation around addiction from shame and secrecy to openness and community support.
### The Impact of Personal Connections on Recovery
One aspect of Sean's journey that stands out is his close connection with his mother in achieving sobriety. Both Sean and his mother achieved sobriety on the same day, a unique bond that continues to shape Sean's perspective on recovery. Their shared experience highlights the importance of familial support and understanding in the recovery process.
### Embracing the Principle of "One Day at a Time"
Sean embodies the principle of taking recovery one day at a time, allowing for gradual progress and learning along the way. By embracing this mindset, individuals struggling with addiction can focus on the present moment and navigate their journey towards sobriety with resilience and determination.
### Rethinking Relapse and Building Supportive Communities
Sean challenges the traditional view of relapse by emphasizing the importance of community in the recovery process. Instead of viewing relapse as a failure, Sean advocates for a more compassionate and understanding approach, recognizing that setbacks are part of the journey towards long-term recovery.
### The Power of Community in Recovery
In closing, Sean highlights the transformative role of community in addiction recovery. By engaging with others in recovery groups, sharing experiences, and building supportive networks, individuals can find strength and resilience in their journey towards sobriety. Sean's story serves as a testament to the power of community, comedy, and personal connections in empowering individuals to overcome addiction and thrive.
00:00 Welcome to Reboot Your Life: Humor, Healing, and Transformation
00:46 Introducing Dave Clawson: From Military Sniper to Life Coach
02:19 Dave's Journey: Overcoming PTSD and Finding Abundance
03:50 Unlocking Your Inner Warrior for Personal Growth
10:19 The Power of Resilience and Self-Care
12:18 Riverside Recovery of Tampa: A Haven for Healing
16:41 Authenticity and Integrity: Being True to Yourself
25:52 Exploring the Recovery Project with Sean Daniels
27:38 The Power of Arts in Changing National Narratives
28:11 Tackling Addiction Through Storytelling
29:10 A Personal Journey: Sobriety and Family Bonds
33:17 The Role of Science in Understanding Addiction
35:26 Comedy and Recovery: A Unique Approach
41:35 The Importance of Community in Recovery
49:34 Final Thoughts and Advice on Recovery
If you encounter a homeless veteran or one in trouble, you can call 877-424-3838 and someone will be dispatched to get them help! VA benefits now fund on-the-spot sightings of veterans in need and can guide them toward the treatment or services they may need.
Did you know, each month Riverside Recovery of Tampa makes its campus freely available for a variety of veteran’s groups to meet and showcase the many support services available to our veterans? Riverside also provides direct treatment options to fast-track veterans toward recovery and to regain the lives they deserve.
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Ep. 20: From Tragedy to Triumph: A Veteran's Journey to a Life of Abundance | Healing Through Comedy