Episodios

  • When Life Throws You a Curveball with Michael Bugary

    When Life Throws You a Curveball with Michael Bugary
    Jul 8 2025

    In this episode, Coach Blu Robinson interviews Michael Bugary, with a bright future in professional baseball, his life took a dramatic turn due to addiction and a cancer diagnosis. Michael shares his journey from being a promising baseball player to facing the harsh realities of addiction and illness. He discusses the importance of identity, the struggles of coping with loss, and the role of family in his recovery. Michael emphasizes the healing power of therapy dogs and the significance of authenticity in his new role as a motivational speaker and advocate for others facing similar challenges. He reflects on his future aspirations and the purpose he has found in helping others.

    Takeaways

    Michael's identity was deeply tied to his baseball career.
    Addiction often stems from a need for validation and coping mechanisms.
    The loss of sports can lead to a profound identity crisis.
    Michael's cancer diagnosis forced him to confront his choices.
    Family plays a crucial role in the recovery journey.
    Therapy dogs can provide significant emotional support.
    Authenticity is key in connecting with others in recovery.
    Michael aims to help children with cancer through his experiences.
    Finding purpose in helping others can be a powerful motivator.
    Recovery is a personal journey that requires honesty and self-reflection.

    For More Info: https://www.michaelbugary.com/

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Journey
    02:46 The Identity Crisis of an Athlete
    05:56 The Struggles of Addiction
    08:45 Facing Life's Curveballs: The Cancer Diagnosis
    11:47 The Impact of Family and Relationships
    14:43 Finding Purpose Beyond Baseball
    17:40 The Role of Spirituality in Recovery
    20:42 Helping Others: The New Mission
    25:31 The Healing Power of Therapy Dogs
    29:50 Transformative Public Speaking Experiences
    37:58 Navigating Treatment and Recovery
    43:38 Finding Purpose in Helping Others

    Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety!

    https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete

    Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts.

    https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

    Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us.

    Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA!

    Join Circle

    https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519
    Más Menos
    46 m
  • Navigating Trust with Darryl Stickel

    Navigating Trust with Darryl Stickel
    Jul 1 2025
    In this episode of the Addict to Athlete podcast, Coach Blu Robinson engages in a deep conversation with Darryl Stickel, an expert in building trust and connection. They explore the journey of trust, its definition, and the dynamics involved in fostering deeper relationships. Darryl shares his personal experiences that shaped his understanding of trust, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and self-trust. The discussion also covers practical strategies for building trust in various relationships, including parenting and professional settings, and highlights the significance of communication and awareness in nurturing trust. 00:00Introduction to Trust and Connection 03:07The Journey to Building Trust 06:06Understanding Trust: Definition and Dynamics 08:48The Role of Vulnerability in Trust 11:54Levers of Trust: Benevolence, Integrity, and Ability 14:43Self-Trust and Its Importance 17:36Parenting and Trust Dynamics 20:29Learning from Mistakes and Building Resilience 24:23Navigating Trust and Love in Difficult Relationships 27:02Learning Through Mistakes: The Role of Experience 29:14The Balance of Control and Independence in Parenting 31:10Vulnerability and Trust: Overcoming Past Hurts 35:06The Power of Benevolence in Building Trust 39:46Creating Connections: The Importance of Asking for Help To Learn More: www.trustunlimited.com Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety! https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us. Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA! Join Circle https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519
    Más Menos
    45 m
  • The Unlikely Ultra Runner: The Cliff Young Stroy

    The Unlikely Ultra Runner: The Cliff Young Stroy
    Jun 24 2025

    In this episode, we explore the extraordinary story of Cliff Young, the humble Australian potato farmer who became a national legend by winning the grueling 1983 Sydney to Melbourne Ultramarathon at the age of 61. With no formal training and dressed in work boots, Cliff stunned the world with his relentless determination, unique “Young Shuffle” running style, and unwavering spirit. Not only did he beat seasoned athletes by nearly two days, but he also captured hearts by selflessly sharing his prize money with fellow competitors. Cliff Young’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, humility, and believing in yourself—no matter your age or background.

    Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety!

    https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete

    Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts.

    https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

    Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us.

    Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA!

    Join Circle

    https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519
    Más Menos
    48 m
  • Bridging the Generational Divide with Joanna Lilley

    Bridging the Generational Divide with Joanna Lilley
    Jun 17 2025
    In this episode of the Addict to Athlete podcast, Coach Blu Robinson and Joanna Lilley discuss the unique challenges faced by emerging adults, particularly in the realms of mental health and relationships. They explore the impact of technology on feelings of loneliness, the importance of parental support, and the need for young adults to develop resilience and independence. Joanna shares insights from her work as a therapeutic consultant, emphasizing the need for genuine connections and the role of parents in fostering growth and self-advocacy in their children. In this conversation, Coach Blu Robinson and Joanna Lilley explore the complexities of modern relationships, particularly among youth. They discuss the impact of social media and dating apps on interpersonal connections, the mental health challenges faced by young adults, and the influence of the opiate epidemic on their ability to form secure attachments. The dialogue also addresses the generational gap in understanding and empathy, as well as the evolving nature of spirituality among younger generations. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of support, understanding, and emotional intelligence in fostering healthy relationships and personal growth. Takeaways This age group is often overlooked in mental health discussions.Emerging adults face significant loneliness despite being socially connected.Excessive technology use contributes to feelings of disconnection.Parents should shift from being authoritative to being partners in their child's journey.Resilience and grit are essential for young adults to navigate challenges.It's important to normalize the extended time it takes for young adults to find their path.Young adults often feel overwhelmed by the number of choices available to them.Parental anxiety can lead to overprotectiveness, hindering young adults' growth.Encouraging independence is crucial for developing self-advocacy skills.Building genuine relationships is key to supporting emerging adults. The anxiety-driven world affects how youth build relationships.Young adults are seeking guidance on healthy dating.Mental health concerns are prevalent among youth today.The opiate epidemic has created a generation with trust issues.Empathy and understanding are crucial for bridging generational gaps.Youth prioritize experiences over traditional markers of success.Spirituality is evolving and becoming more personal for young adults.Curiosity about spirituality is growing among youth.Emotional intelligence is key to navigating modern challenges.Support from stable adults can help youth thrive. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Emerging Adults' Mental Health 03:06Understanding the Unique Challenges of Young Adults 05:58The Impact of Technology on Relationships 09:00Navigating Parental Relationships and Support 11:53Building Resilience and Grit in Young Adults 14:58Encouraging Independence and Self-Advocacy 18:03The Role of Parents in Modern Challenges 20:58Navigating Modern Relationships 24:14Mental Health and Substance Use in Youth 27:51The Impact of the Opiate Epidemic 31:05Bridging the Generational Gap 35:00Changing Values and Spirituality in Youth Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety! https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us. Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA! Join Circle https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519
    Más Menos
    47 m
  • Reinventing Yourself with Craig Filek

    Reinventing Yourself with Craig Filek
    Jun 10 2025
    Summary In this episode of the Addict to Athlete podcast, Coach Blu Robinson and Craig Filek explore the themes of reinvention, connection, and healthy masculinity. They discuss the challenges faced by midlife men, the importance of mentorship, and the need for emotional safety in men's work. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community and the role of elders in guiding younger generations towards authentic living. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the journey of finding purpose beyond addiction and the necessity of fostering healthy relationships among men. In this conversation, Coach Blu Robinson and Craig Filek explore the complexities of masculinity, fatherhood, and the importance of mentorship and community support. They discuss the impact of upbringing on male identity, the journey of breaking generational cycles of pain, and the necessity of finding role models and mentors. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence, the healing process for those who help others, and the value of building supportive networks among men. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a call to action for men to seek deeper connections and to support one another in their journeys toward personal growth and fulfillment. 00:00Introduction to the Addict to Athlete Podcast 03:00The Journey of Reinvention 06:01Understanding Midlife Challenges 09:10The Importance of Connection and Belonging 11:56Navigating Success and Purpose 15:04The Role of Masculinity in Modern Society 17:57Healthy Masculinity and Emotional Safety 20:57Mentorship and the Importance of Elders 24:07Practices for Authentic Living 26:58The Future of Masculinity and Community Engagement 29:10Understanding Masculinity and Its Impact 32:38The Journey of Fatherhood and Breaking Cycles 35:41Finding Mentorship and Role Models 38:41The Importance of Community and Support 49:19Healing the Healers: Supporting Those Who Help Others 57:40Opportunities for Growth and Connection For More: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigfilek/ https://www.instagram.com/craigfilek/?hl=en Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety! https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us. Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA! Join Circle https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519
    Más Menos
    1 h y 1 m
  • From Addict to Athlete: The Starting Line

    From Addict to Athlete: The Starting Line
    Jun 3 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Coach Blu Robinson discusses his journey as a mental health therapist and addiction counselor, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health challenges alongside substance abuse. He shares insights on the role of recreation in recovery, critiques traditional recovery programs, and introduces his vision for a new podcast focused on mental health. The discussion highlights the need for innovative approaches to therapy and the significance of community support in overcoming addiction. In this conversation, Coach Blu Robinson discusses the importance of community responsibility in addressing addiction and recovery. He emphasizes the value of 12-step programs while advocating for innovative approaches like the Couch to 5K program, which integrates physical activity into recovery. The discussion highlights the significance of transforming identities from 'addict' to 'athlete' and the power of community support in healing. Coach Blu shares personal experiences and insights on how movement can facilitate recovery and the need to support the next generation facing addiction challenges.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Coach Blu Robinson and Team Attic 2 Athlete
    03:09 The Rise of Mental Health Challenges
    05:50 The Role of Recreation in Recovery
    11:59 Personal Journey: From Addiction to Recovery
    17:57 Critique of Traditional Recovery Programs
    23:51 The Value of 12-Step Programs
    24:47 The Dog Poop Initiative: Community Responsibility
    27:01 Becoming a Scooper: Taking Action
    28:44 Innovative Approaches to Recovery
    30:36 The Couch to 5K Concept
    32:52 Transforming Identities: From Addict to Athlete
    34:47 The Power of Community Support
    37:33 The Birth of Addict to Athlete
    39:03 Movement as Healing
    43:15 Addressing the Opiate Epidemic
    45:08 Supporting the Next Generation

    Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety!

    https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete

    Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts.

    https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

    Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us.

    Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA!

    Join Circle

    https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519
    Más Menos
    49 m
  • The Power of Humility in Overcoming Addiction with Jonathan Schwartz

    The Power of Humility in Overcoming Addiction with Jonathan Schwartz
    May 20 2025

    In this episode, Coach Blu Robinson interviews Jonathan, who shares his powerful redemption story from addiction and embezzlement to recovery and helping others. Jonathan discusses his journey through gambling addiction, the consequences he faced, and how he found hope and purpose in his life after prison. He emphasizes the importance of asking for help, the role of humility in recovery, and the significance of sharing his story to inspire others. In this conversation, Jonathan shares his journey of recovery from addiction, emphasizing the importance of surrendering to a higher power, finding authentic purpose, and making conscious choices. He discusses the significance of reconnecting with one's inner dialogue and emotional awareness, as well as the vital role of relationships in recovery. Jonathan highlights how active listening and positive self-talk have transformed his life, allowing him to build meaningful connections and live authentically.

    To Learn More About Jonathan

    Instagram: instagram.com/jt_.schwartz/

    Facebook:

    facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567366347946

    Linkedin:

    linkedin.com/in/jonathan-schwartz-1b0a241a9

    Websigt:

    altus.rehab/meet-our-staff/

    Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety!

    https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete

    Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts.

    https://www.AddictToAthlete.org

    Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us.

    Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA!

    Join Circle

    https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519
    Más Menos
    51 m
  • The Power of Movement: A Conversation with Scott Strode

    The Power of Movement: A Conversation with Scott Strode
    May 13 2025
    In this episode of the Addict II Athlete podcast, Coach Blu Robinson interviews Scott Strode, founder of The Phoenix, about the transformative power of movement in recovery from addiction. They discuss the importance of bringing recovery into the light, building new identities through physical activity, and the role of forgiveness in healing. Scott shares his personal journey and insights on how community and shared experiences can foster resilience and strength in those recovering from addiction. In this conversation, Blu and Scott explore the transformative journeys of individuals in recovery, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and collective healing. They discuss the ethos of the Phoenix organization, which focuses on lifting each other and creating nurturing spaces for growth. Scott shares insights on endurance events as a means of connection and support, and highlights the significance of his book, 'Rise, Recover, Thrive,' which encapsulates the message of community and healing in recovery. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Recovery and Movement 04:28 The Power of Bringing Recovery into the Light 10:07 Building Identity Through Movement 14:20 Transforming Pain into Strength 22:40 The Role of Forgiveness in Recovery 29:10 Beyond Addiction: Embracing a New Identity 30:10 Transformative Journeys: From Pain to Purpose 33:36 Building a Nurturing Community: The Phoenix Ethos 36:48 The Power of Collective Recovery: A Movement, Not an Organization 40:30 Endurance Events: The Spirit of Support and Connection 48:27 Rise, Recover, Thrive: The Message of Community and Healing takeaways Movement was a key part of my recovery journey.Bringing recovery into the light helps combat shame.We need to create spaces for people to express their intrinsic strength.Community support is crucial in the recovery process.Identities can be rebuilt through athletic pursuits.Pain can be transformed into strength and motivation.We must innovate our approach to addiction recovery.Everyone has gifts to share in the recovery community. The journey of recovery can be painful but transformative.Coaching offers a different approach than traditional therapy.Community support is essential in the recovery process.The Phoenix ethos is about lifting each other up.Connection is vital for overcoming challenges in recovery.Endurance events foster a sense of community and support.The Phoenix is a movement, not just an organization.Healing is a collective effort, not an individual pursuit. FOr more information on Scott: https://www.scottstrode.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottstrode/ https://www.instagram.com/scottstrode/?hl=en Please join Addict to Athlete’s Patreon support page and help us turn the mess of addiction into the message of sobriety! https://www.patreon.com/addicttoathlete Please visit our website for more information on Team Addict to Athlete and Addiction Recovery Podcasts. https://www.AddictToAthlete.org Join the Team! Circle, our new social support event, along with the team and athlete communication platform, is designed to help us break free from doom scrolling and shadow banning and foster stronger connections among us. Follow the link, download the app, and start this new chapter of Team AIIA! Join Circle https://a2a.circle.so/join?invitation_token=16daaa0d9ecd7421d384dd05a461464ce149cc9e-63d4aa30-1a67-4120-ae12-124791dfb519
    Más Menos
    55 m