In this conversation, Derek Chowen discusses the critical differences between sobriety and recovery, emphasizing that recovery involves not just abstaining from substances but also developing the tools to cope with life. He outlines the various losses one may experience during recovery, such as the loss of certain friendships, the euphoria of early sobriety, and the moral high ground. However, he also highlights the significant gains that come with recovery, including improved health, energy, and a positive self-image. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to embrace recovery for the profound benefits it offers.

Summary

In this episode, Derek Chowen dives deep into the concept of opportunity, challenging the notion that it simply presents itself. He emphasizes that opportunities are always available, waiting for individuals to take action. Drawing from personal experiences, Derek reflects on his journey to recovery and how he could have seized opportunities sooner. He encourages listeners to recognize the alignment of circumstances and relationships that can lead to success, urging them to act on their goals and aspirations without delay. The episode serves as a motivational call to action, reminding everyone that the best time to pursue their dreams is now.

In this episode, Derek Chowen uses an analogy to compare polishing a sailboat hull to improving one's life.

There is risk in doing something differently or applying pressure (effort), but there is also potential reward waiting for you.

In this episode, Derek Chowen reflects on the New Year, sharing his thoughts on resolutions and the importance of realizations. He discusses personal growth, lessons learned from a life-changing incident involving a car accident, and introduces the 'Secret Agent Game' as a metaphor for mindfulness and preparedness in driving. The episode encourages listeners to share their own lessons and collaborate for a better year ahead.

Christmas has a way of inviting ghosts to the table.

Old streets. Old houses. Old voices we still expect to hear. In this episode, Derek returns to his hometown and takes listeners on a walk through the places where memory still lives—exploring how time changes landscapes, relationships, and us.

Rather than pushing grief away, this conversation makes space for it. Because the emptiness we feel at Christmastime isn’t proof that something is wrong—it’s proof that something deeply good once existed there.

Through reflection, personal storytelling, and the lens of 7th Seal Coaching, this episode reframes grief as evidence of love, connection, and meaning. The memories may ache, but they are also gifts—reminders that we lived, belonged, and were shaped by something real.

If Christmas feels heavier this year, this episode offers a quiet companion and a message of hope:
it wouldn’t hurt this much if it hadn’t been that good.